Why is Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek a must-do in 2025?
Ghorepani trek is one of the most popular accessible routes for those wishing to experience trekking in Nepal. It is the perfect combination of challenging and achievable. With its mix of traditional villages, beautiful rhododendron forests, and panoramic mountain views, it is easy to see why so many travelers choose this adventure when wanting to enjoy one of our maps.
Here is the breakdown of reasons why you should consider Ghorepani Poon Hill Treks:
Poon Hill Sunrise
The sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m) is the most anticipated highlight of this trek. In the early morning hours, you hike to the viewpoint with headlamps lighting your way, and the effort is rewarded with an unforgettable spectacle.
As the first rays of the sun touch the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, the entire landscape comes alive with golden and orange hues.
Peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Nilgiri appear almost surreal in their beauty. This panoramic view offers countless photography opportunities and a memory to cherish forever.
Rhododendron Forests
The trail leads you through enchanting rhododendron forests that burst into vibrant colors during spring (March-April). You can see different colors of flowers, such as red, pink, and even white. Besides rhododendrons, other flowers also bloom.
These forests attract a diverse array of wildlife, including exotic birds such as the Danphe (Himalayan Monal). Walking through them feels like stepping into a dreamland.
Traditional Villages
The trek passes through picturesque villages like Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk, which are rich in Gurung and Magar culture. These villages have stone-paved streets, terraced fields, and colorful prayer flags.
All the locals here are friendly and welcome trekkers with warm hospitality. Passing through these places means witnessing the locals’ daily lives, enjoying cultural dances, and learning about their unique traditions. Additionally, these villages feature numerous gompas and museums.
Sunrise/Sunset at Tadapani
The Poon Hill Terk’s major attraction is the sunrise and sunset views. Tadapani, nestled amidst lush forests, offers serene surroundings and breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. The sunrise here paints the peaks in soft pink and golden shades.
Similarly, the sunsets are equally captivating as the mountains glow under the fading light. Although not as popular as other viewpoints on the route, the place offers a similar beauty with fewer crowds.
Traditional Food
The local teahouses and lodges serve a variety of traditional Nepali dishes, including dal bhat (a lentil soup accompanied by rice and vegetables), momo (dumplings), and sel roti (a rice-based doughnut). The warm, hearty meals are delicious and provide the energy needed for trekking. Some teahouses even offer homemade butter tea and organic honey, adding local flavor to your culinary experience.
Family Friendly Trek
The Poon Hill trek is considered one of the most family-friendly treks in Nepal, thanks to its moderate difficulty and relatively short duration. You will enjoy well-marked trails and comfortable accommodations, making this trek a suitable option for both children and older adults. Smaller daily walking distances and ample rest points ensure a relaxed and enjoyable journey for all age groups. Together you will hike through forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy mountain views.
Annapurna Conservation Area Project
The trek is within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), Nepal’s largest protected area. Trekking in this area allows visitors to experience Nepal’s natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
You must pay a specific fee to enter the area, contributing to conservation efforts. You will encounter information boards and visitor centers that offer insights into the area’s ecology, flora, and fauna.
Low Adventure and Most Prominent Trek in Nepal
The Poon Hill Trek is standout in Nepal for many reasons. It’s part of the famous Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek and means even if you’re short on time, you can still enjoy the beauty of the Annapurna region. Plus, since you don’t climb too high, there’s less risk of altitude sickness, making it safer.
What’s more, the trek is just stunning. The paths are pretty straightforward, with gentle slopes and some small staircases. As you walk through colorful forests and charming villages and reach viewpoints like Poon Hill, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains, making it a trek you won’t forget.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route
The Poon Hill trek begins with a 43 km drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which takes approximately 2 hours. The trek starts at Nayapul and follows a 9 km trail to Tikhedhunga, passing through the village of Birethanti. From Tikhedhunga, the trail goes uphill for 6 km to Ulleri, where you climb 3,200 stone steps.
The next part of the trek is an 11 km walk to Ghorepani through beautiful forests. Ghorepani is the starting point for the sunrise hike to Poon Hill, the highest point of the trek at 3,210 meters.
The hike to Poon Hill is about 1 km round trip. After visiting Poon Hill, you walk 7 km down to Tadapani, a small village with great views of the mountains. From Tadapani, the trail goes downhill for 10 km to Ghandruk.
Ghandruk is a lovely Gurung village with amazing views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. The trek ends with a 5 km walk to Kimche, where you take a jeep or bus back to Pokhara. The entire trek covers about 38 km.
You can take alternative routes, like starting the trek from Dhampus or adding stops at Landruk and Pothana before returning to Pokhara. The trails are well-marked, but some sections are steep and rocky. The climb to Ulleri and the steep paths can make the trek challenging.
However, it is not very difficult and is suitable for most trekkers. The highlights of this trek are the sunrise view from Poon Hill, beautiful forests, and traditional villages.
Transportation Options for Poon Hill Treks
To start the Ghorepani trek, you first need to reach Pokhara. You can get to Pokhara from Kathmandu by bus, car, or flight. Tourist buses take about 6-8 hours. Private vehicles offer more comfort and flexibility. Flights are quick and take only 25-30 minutes, offering beautiful views as you fly over the hills and mountains.
Once in Pokhara, you can go to Nayapul, where the trek begins. You can take a local bus or a private jeep to Nayapul. Private vehicles are more comfortable and offer great views along the way.
How to Reach Pokhara from Kathmandu?
You have three main options to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu: tourist buses, private cars, and flights. Tourist buses are affordable and take about 6-8 hours. They usually cost around NPR 1,000-2,500. Private vehicles are more comfortable and flexible, costing between NPR 10,000 and 15,000.
Flights are the quickest option, taking only 25-30 minutes, and they range from NPR 5,000 to NPR 12,000 one way. Flights can be booked online or through travel agencies, while buses and private cars can be arranged at local rental shops or travel agencies.
To Nayapul from Pokhara
From Pokhara to Nayapul, you can take a bus, jeep, or private car. Buses and shared jeeps are more affordable and take 1.5 to 2 hours. They cost about NPR 300-500. Private jeeps and cars are more expensive, ranging from NPR 4,000 to NPR 8,000. These options are more comfortable and suitable for groups or individuals who prefer a more private ride. The trip to Nayapul is scenic, passing through small villages and offering views of the mountains.
Best Time For Ghorepani Trek
Thankfully, the Ghorepani trek is one such exciting trekking trail in Nepal that can be conquered throughout the year. However, the two best seasons for the trek are Autumn and Spring. The region looks completely different in all seasons and offers various perks in different weather. Let’s discuss
Autumn in Poon Hill
September to November is the best time for this trek, especially if you want to see incredible mountain views. The weather is clear during these months, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from morning until evening. This time of year has little rain and warm temperatures. During the day, the temperature typically ranges from 10°C to 20°C, while at night, it can drop to 0°C or 5°C. There are plenty of tea houses and lodges where you can stay and have hot meals.
Since this is a busy season, more people will be on the trail, making it lively and fun. Autumn is also a festive time in Nepal. Major festivities in Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, fall during autumn, adding to the joyful atmosphere.
The harvest season makes the landscape look golden and even more beautiful. If you go later in autumn, you might see snow, which brings a special touch of winter to your trekking experience.
Spring in Poon Hill
Imagine trekking through a thick forest adorned with vibrant red, pink, and white wildflowers from March to May. The heavy bloom of rhododendrons in spring paints the landscape like heaven. During this time, the skies are relatively straightforward, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding mountains. This clear weather allows you to fully appreciate the majestic beauty of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
In spring, temperatures range between 12°C and 22°C during the day and 5°C and 10°C at night. The tea houses and lodges along the trail are welcoming and comfortable, making your stay pleasant. Unlike the busy peak seasons, the crowds are moderate, allowing you to enjoy a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience.
Winter in Poon Hill
From late December to early February, almost all Ghorepani and Poon Hill areas are covered with snow. The glittering white mountains and snowfall above the trees make it a fascinating time to travel. The trail may be covered in snow, and temperatures tend to be quite cold, making this period less popular for trekking.
The average temperature during winter ranges from -5°C to 10°C, with nights dropping to as low as -10°C or colder. Accommodation options are available but may be limited, and trekkers should be prepared for fewer facilities and more basic comforts. Crowds are minimal during this season, offering a more secluded and peaceful experience. All you need is warm clothes and guidance from the MyEverestTrip guide.
Summer in Poon Hill
The summer months, spanning from June to August, are the least preferred time for this trek. Rain and clouds hide the mountain in the evening, making the path slippery. However, it’s green and fresh, with new vegetation emerging everywhere. The temperature during summer ranges from 15°C to 25°C during the day and can drop to around 10°C to 15°C at night.
Accommodation options are available but may be more limited compared to peak seasons. Due to the rainy weather, you may encounter fewer trekkers, making the trail quieter; however, the terrain can still be challenging.
If you visit in April, you will walk through the dense rhododendron forests and many other flora and fauna. Therefore, we recommend joining us for this trek between March and May or September and November.
Ghorepani Trek Difficulty
The Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is not too difficult, but it’s graded as moderate because of its steep paths, high altitude, and basic facilities. The weather at Poon Hill is usually good so that you can trek there at any time of year, and the trail is safe and well-maintained with the help of locals. This trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal, offering a wonderful experience and a chance to see traditional rural Nepali life.
The trek to Poon Hill has become popular among beginners, women, solo travelers, individuals, and families. It is an excellent choice if you are reasonably fit and passionate about highland adventures. The trek is one of Nepal’s most leisurely, with well-maintained paths and gentle climbs, making it an ideal experience for beginners and those seeking a relaxed journey.
The trek does not require intense training or preparation. So, even if you’re not fit, you can still enjoy it fully. The pace is comfortable, with ample time to rest and take in the beautiful scenery. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to explore nature without the stress of strenuous hiking.
Permits Required For Poon Hill Trek
Firstly, trekkers must obtain a Tourist visa for Nepal. The permit can be received upon arrival at the entry points of Nepal, including the airport. As long as you have a valid passport, a visa costs about USD 50.
Being a conversation area, you need a special trekking permit to enter the Ghorepani Poon Hill region. Some areas of Annapurna have been designated for conservation to protect the local wildlife from extreme invasion.
Yes, you need two permits to trek in this region. One is the TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System), and the other is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which helps fund conservation efforts in the region.
- TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): A TIMS card is required for trekking in Nepal. It enhances safety and security during Himalayan treks. You can obtain your TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board office or any Trekking Agencies in Nepal. The cost is Rs. 2000 for foreigners and Rs. 1000 for SAARC nationals.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): As a conservation area, you need a special permit to enter the Ghorepani Poon Hill region. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit costs USD 30 per person for foreigners and Rs. 200 per citizen of SAARC countries. This permit is necessary to support conservation efforts and preserve the region’s natural beauty.
Thankfully, MyEverestTreks does all the paperwork while you enjoy your time in Nepal. That’s why trekking with a Ghorepani Poonhill package is an easier option.
Accommodations Option During Ghorepani Poon Hill
Did you know this short Poon Hill Ghandruk trek has become popular due to its comfortable accommodation? Along the trail, you can find many hotels and teahouses that provide good facilities. Most teahouses have basic twin-sharing beds, which include a mattress, pillow, and blanket. It’s a good idea to bring a lightweight blanket or sleeping bag, especially if you’re trekking in winter.
The guesthouses in Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk are better than those in other trekking areas in Nepal. They often have in-room plugs, Wi-Fi, and hot showers, though bathrooms are usually shared. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, your accommodations will be shared in 3-star hotels with private bathrooms and hot showers.
The rooms have all the basic needs. If you prefer, you can also stay in a 5-star hotel in the area. During peak seasons, Ghorepani and Tadapani can get busy, so booking your rooms in advance is essential. We can help you with booking to make your stay more comfortable.
Food and Beverages Around Poon Hill Treks
On the Poon Hill trek, there are many food choices to keep you well-fed. For breakfast, you can have oatmeal, cornflakes, French toast, eggs made in different ways, pancakes, and more.
Lunch and dinner include dishes such as dhal bhat, rice, lentil soup, vegetables, noodles, dumplings, soups, pizza, roti, curries, and dishes featuring potatoes, rice, bread, and eggs. With such a diverse selection, you will find delicious meals to refuel during your trek.
Streams and springs along the trail can be used for drinking water, but it is essential to ensure it is safe. You can purify water using water purification tablets, a water filter, or boiling it for at least 5 minutes.
To make water easily accessible, carry a reusable water bottle and refill it when needed. Some teahouses may give you purified water or sell bottled water. Drinking enough water is crucial for staying healthy and maintaining your energy while trekking.
How to Prepare for the Ghorepani Trek?
Starting on a trekking holiday can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. However, by taking a simple, step-by-step approach, you can prepare yourself for your chosen trekking adventure. You must look after two significant aspects before leaving for the Trek.
The physical and Mental. To be physically ready, you can focus on exercise and nutrition. You can indulge in exercises that build endurance and strength, like hiking, jogging, or cycling.
When mentally preparing for a trek, remember to pace yourself and listen to your body’s signals to avoid exhaustion. Consistency and persistence are key, so maintaining regular training is essential to build mental resilience and endurance.
Know what to expect on your trek, including its difficulty level, so you can mentally prepare for any challenges. By adopting a positive mindset, staying focused, and being adaptable, you can approach your trek with confidence and determination.
A Typical Day On Poon Hill Trek
A typical day on the trek begins with breakfast at the lodge or tea house where you’re staying. This meal helps you prepare for the day ahead. After breakfast, the trek starts and usually lasts around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the route and your pace. During the day, there are breaks at scenic spots where you can rest, take pictures, and enjoy the calm surroundings.
After a long day of trekking, we will rest in comfortable tea houses or lodges. These places offer basic accommodations, including twin-sharing rooms and often shared bathrooms. Some areas may have better facilities, like in-room plugs and hot showers. Lunch is at small restaurants or tea houses along the trail, offering simple dishes such as rice, noodles, soups, and the local favorite, Dhal Bhat.
As evening approaches, we will reach our destination for the night—a lodge or tea house along the trekking route. Here, we will settle in and enjoy a hearty dinner while reflecting on the day’s adventures. After dinner, we will rest up, ready to recharge for another day of trekking ahead.
Alternatives and options to extend this trek
Combining the Ghorepani Trek with the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek can lengthen the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This extension takes 5 to 6 extra days and continues from Tadapani or Chhomrong. It allows you to explore the beautiful Annapurna Base Camp and get up close to the mountains. While it costs a little more due to additional permits and days, the stunning views and unique experience make it worthwhile.
Another option is the Khopra Ridge Trek. It offers quieter trails, breathtaking views, and a chance to visit Khayer Lake. This less-crowded trek is ideal for those seeking a peaceful journey.
The Mardi Himal Trek is another excellent alternative to Poon Hill Trek. It takes you to the base of Mardi Himal, giving you incredible views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. This trek is slightly more challenging than the Poon Hill Trek due to its steep climbs, but it is less crowded and more peaceful. The cost is similar to that of Poon Hill, as the tea houses and meals are also reasonably priced.
Guide and Porter
We offer experienced and reliable porters and guides for your trek in Nepal. Our team is strong and knowledgeable, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. This short and moderate trek provides a comfortable trekking experience.
Please let us know if you need a porter, guide, or porter-guide for this trek. We are committed to providing friendly, honest, and clear support.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is crucial for trekking in Nepal. It guarantees your safety and covers any potential expenses that may arise during your journey. This insurance should include comprehensive coverage for medical and travel-related issues, as unforeseen accidents can occur at any time.
Given Nepal’s challenging terrain and high altitudes, having robust insurance coverage ensures that you will receive necessary medical treatment and evacuation if needed, providing peace of mind throughout your trekking adventure.
I want you to know that your insurance plan covers all aspects of your trekking adventure. With adequate coverage, you can immerse yourself in Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences without worrying about unexpected emergencies. By prioritizing your safety through proper insurance, you can enjoy the wonders of trekking in Nepal with confidence and peace of mind.
Why Choose My EverestTrip (MET)?
MyEverestTrip is a Nepalese Travel and Trekking Agency based in Kathmandu. We have been operating in different trekking regions for over a decade and have traveled with hundreds of travelers worldwide.
With the pure intention of bringing trekkers to Nepal safely and comfortably, we have an entire team of travel planners, guides, and porters. We also have connections to hotels and restaurant lines throughout Nepal, ensuring our trekkers receive the best possible facilities.
So, here is the reason why you should travel with MyEverestTrip.
Customize Your Itinerary
We have designed a well-planned Itinerary for all travel destinations around Nepal. However, this itinerary is customizable to meet the needs and requests of our trekkers. Please let us know when and how long you will be staying so we can arrange the rest.
Our Expert Guide
Although all travel agencies claim to have a good guide, many are unaware of your destination. However, MyEverestTrip has a licensed guide in Nepal. They have been working in this field for over three decades, collecting information about the place and culture, and learning to keep travelers safe.
Additionally, our guide is proficient in English. When we have a special request, we can hire a guide who can speak Chinese and other European languages while trekking in Nepal.
Fair and reasonable Cost
MyEverestTrip is known for its very economical Nepal. You can compare our trek packages with those of any other travel agency in Nepal, and you can book with us only if you are satisfied with our prices. We include all necessary expenses during the tour, so you won’t be surprised by hidden costs after booking the package.
Your safety is our priority.
The safety of our trekkers and team is the utmost priority of MyEverestTrip. Our guide and porters, who will accompany you on the trip, will have their insurance. We also encourage Travelers to Purchase Travel insurance for their treks. Our treks and expeditions have been so designed that you only walk an appropriate distance. In any case of emergency, you will always have our back.
Responsible and Eco-Friendly
MyEverestTrip operates with the belief in responsible tourism. This includes
- We are transparent about the services covered on the trip. There shall be no hidden cost (informed in advance if there’s any)
- We cover all the places promised before the trek (the trend of skipping places once you book the package has to be discouraged).
- All our guides and porters are over 18 years old. We strongly discourage the use of child labor in the tourism industry.
- We do not leave waste behind on the routes. We either dispose of it properly, return it, or send it to the municipality.
- We do not engage in any activities that affect the people in the trekking places where we stay in Nepal.
My Everest Trip provides excellent services to our national and international clients. Our team of experts makes it their mission to ensure your trek is as comfortable as possible.
They are qualified, knowledgeable, and on hand to answer any questions about the Poon Hill Trek Cost or the Poon Hill trek difficulty. Or, if you would like to learn more about what it is like to participate in this exciting experience,
