Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of Nepal’s most famous and adventurous treks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with the awe-inspiring Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain at 3,210 meters. This trek is short and relatively easy, making it ideal for beginners, yet it delivers stunning scenery of snow-capped mountains and charming villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk. Along the way, you’ll experience the rich cultures of the Gurung and Magar communities. The highlight is the sunrise from Poon Hill, offering mesmerizing views of mountains like Annapurna (I), Annapurna South, Annapurna II, III, IV, Tukuche Peak, Gangapurna, Barasikhar, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and the Manaslu range. This trek also features beautiful rhododendron forests filled with birdlife and picturesque valleys that enhance the experience.

The trek officially begins from Nayapul, a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. From there, you trek through villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk. After reaching Ghorepani, you’ll wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise at Poon Hill. The descent takes you to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. After completing the trek, you return to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara.

Short Itinerary

1. Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
2. Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
3. Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (Optional: Flight) (800m)
4. Day 04: Drive to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m)
5. Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2,750m/9,020ft) – 6-7 hours
6. Day 06: Trek to Tadapani (2,700m/8,860ft) via Poon Hill – 6-7 hours
7. Day 07: Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,360ft) – 3-4 hours
8. Day 08: Ghandruk to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara – 4-hour trek, 1-hour drive
9. Day 09: Drive to Kathmandu (Optional: Flight)
10. Day 10: Final departure

Additional Information

• On popular trekking routes, you can purchase everyday supplies like toilet paper, soap, chocolate bars, and even basic hiking gear along the way. However, keep in mind that prices tend to increase significantly as you ascend to higher elevations. It’s advisable to stock up on essential items at lower altitudes and consider buying locally-produced goods such as fruits and biscuits to support the local economy.

Maps for trekking routes are widely available in Nepal, and you can easily find them in areas like Thamel in Kathmandu. If you’re embarking on more challenging treks that involve mountaineering, you may need specialized equipment such as crampons and ice axes. Simpler types of crampons, which attach to your shoes using a rubber ring, are readily available in Thamel and are often referred to as spikes, micro spikes, or chains. These are particularly useful for icy or slippery conditions on the trails.

Trip Facts

• Duration: 10 days
• Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge/Guest House
• Seasons: January-May & September-December
• Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 3,210 meters
• Transportation: Flight/Drive
• Group Size: Minimum 2 people
• Start Point: Kathmandu
• End Point: Pokhara

Trek Highlights

• Visit cultural and religious sites in Kathmandu: Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Majestic views of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna
• Explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages
• Witness a spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill