Also known as the Annapurna Sunrise Trek or Annapurna Panorama Trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most accessible and rewarding treks in Nepal. Offered by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition (P.) Ltd., this short yet spectacular journey is perfect for both novice trekkers and seasoned adventurers looking to explore the beauty of the Annapurna region. Beginning in the picturesque city of Pokhara, the trek gradually ascends through charming villages, lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and offers captivating views of some of the tallest peaks in the world.
The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), one of the most famous viewpoints in the Himalayas. As the sun rises over the mountains, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of peaks like Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,998m), and Nilgiri (7,041m). This experience is both serene and awe-inspiring. The trail also passes through villages inhabited by the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities, giving trekkers a cultural immersion into the traditional Himalayan lifestyle. Trekking with Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures that you have knowledgeable local guides, well-planned itineraries, and personalized service throughout your adventure.
Best Time for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The best time to explore on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During spring, the trail is ablaze with blooming rhododendrons and wildflowers, adding vibrant color to the already stunning landscape. The skies are generally clear, and temperatures are moderate, making it an ideal time for scenic photography and comfortable hiking.
Autumn is perhaps the most popular season for this trek. After the monsoon rains clear the dust and pollution from the air, the Himalayan views become crisp and clear. Days are sunny and warm, while nights are cool but not overly cold, creating perfect conditions for trekking. Although winter (December to February) offers solitude and less crowded trails, colder temperatures and snow can pose challenges. The monsoon season (June to August) is best avoided due to slippery trails and limited visibility. With proper planning, Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures that your trek is timed perfectly for optimal conditions.
Trekking Difficulty of Ghorepani Poon Hill
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is classified as a moderate trek, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels, including beginners. It does not require technical climbing or previous high-altitude trekking experience. However, some parts of the trail, especially the steep stone staircases from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, can be physically demanding. Daily walking ranges from 4 to 6 hours over varied terrain, including ascents, descents, and forested trails.
The maximum elevation reached is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, which is well below the altitude that typically causes serious acclimatization issues. That said, proper hydration, pacing, and rest are important. Trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and determination can comfortably complete this trek. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition offers experienced guides who assist you at every step, ensuring your pace is steady, your health is monitored, and your experience remains enjoyable and safe throughout.
Food and Accommodation on the Trek
During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, accommodation is provided in local teahouses, which offer simple yet comfortable lodging. These family-run guesthouses provide private or shared rooms with basic bedding and shared bathrooms. Some lodges at lower altitudes may have hot showers, Wi-Fi, and even charging facilities (for a small fee). Rooms are generally clean, and the hospitality of the local hosts adds warmth to your stay.
Meals served in teahouses are typically wholesome and freshly prepared. The menu commonly includes dal bhat (rice with lentils and vegetables), noodles, soups, pasta, potatoes, and momos. Breakfast usually consists of bread, eggs, porridge, and tea or coffee. Although the food is basic, it is nutritious and designed to sustain you through the day’s trek. Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition ensures that hygienic food and clean water are prioritized, and any dietary preferences are taken into account when booking accommodations and meals.
Why Choose Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is ideal for those seeking a short yet fulfilling Himalayan trekking experience. Unlike more strenuous treks like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, this route offers stunning mountain views without the physical stress of high altitude. It provides a perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure. The trek is also relatively short usually completed in about 5–6 days, which makes it ideal for those with limited time or first-time trekkers.
Cultural exposure is another highlight, as you pass through Gurung and Magar villages, visit traditional homes, and observe mountain life firsthand. The rhododendron forests, especially in spring, add an enchanting dimension to the trail. Most importantly, the sunrise from Poon Hill—one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints—makes the entire journey more than worthwhile. With professional guidance and seamless logistics provided by Plan Nepal Trek & Expedition, your trek is not just a walk through the mountains but an experience of a lifetime.
USEFUL TIPS IN SAVING ENERGY
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you'll be received by one of our delegates following which you'll be transferred to the hotel on a private ride. The accommodation for overnight will be at a hotel in Kathmandu.
On the first day, we drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (914 m), which takes about seven hours. This drive will take most of our morning time, leaving much of the afternoon to get a warming glimpse of Pokhara Valley and fall in love with its ethereal beauty. At the end of the day, we stay overnight in the lodge.
Pokhara, situated in the Kaski district, is a land of pristine beauty, adorned by the majestic Himalayas, lush green hills, and pleasant weather. The place is loaded with luxuriant vegetation and dotted with shimmering lakes. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world—Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Manaslu—are within 30 miles of the city. Due to its proximity to the Annapurna mountain range, the city is also a base for trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit through the ACAP region of the Annapurna ranges in the Himalayas. This picturesque valley is also famous for such adventure activities as paragliding, rafting, rock climbing, canyoning, boating, fishing, golfing, and cycling. As Nepal’s major adventure hub, it has the reputation of being the second home for tourists worldwide.
On the second day, we drive from Pokhara (915 m) to Nayapul (1050 m), which takes one and a half hours. We begin our trek from Nayapul (1050 m) and pass via Birethanti (1065 m). The first part of our trek is comfortable, alongside numerous small hamlets and settlements. Afterward, we ascend gently to the final destination of the day, Tikhedhunga (1577 m). The journey will involve four and a half hours of trekking. At the end of the day, we stay overnight in the lodge.
The third day starts with a six-hour trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2675 m). Our trek begins with a steep 2-hour ascent and then a gentle descent, passing through the Magar villages of Ulleri (2070 m) and Banthanti. On the way, we can see the scenic views of Machhapuchhare or FishTail (6997 m), Hiunchuli (6441 m), and Annapurna South (7219m). Now our trail becomes easier as it passes through the forest and descends gently to the final camp. At the end of the day, we stay overnight in the lodge.
On day four, we trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3180 m) and follow to Tadapani (2675 m). The total duration of the trek for the day is about five and a half hours. Early morning hikes to Poon Hill (3232 m) allow us to enjoy the sunrise view over Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Tukuche Peak (6920 m), Nilgiri (6940 m), Varaha Shikhar (7847 m), Mt. Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Annapurna III (7855 m), Machhapuchhare (6993 m), Annapurna IV (7525 m), Annapurna II (7937 m), Lamjung Himal (6931 m), and other numerous snowcapped mountain peaks. En route, we will frequently see waterfalls, rocks, wild animals, local birds, and green vegetation. At the end of the day, we stay overnight in the lodge.
On day five, we trek from Tadapani (2675 m) to Ghandruk (1950 m), which takes about three hours. It is an easy descent all the way, passing through the dense forest of rhododendrons, and fir. This is one of the most popular destinations for bird lovers. Ghandruk is a picturesque Gurung village famous for its culture and traditional hospitality. At the end of the day, we stay overnight in the lodge.
Today we trek from Ghandruk to Naya Pul, then drive back to Pokhara. The early part of our trek is a steep descent, following the stone staircase to Kimbu (the bee hive). Kimbu, or Bee Hive, is located at an elevation of 1200 meters on the bank of Modi Khola. Now, our trail steeply ascends, following the stone staircase up to Landruk. The trail ascends gently for the first two hours and again ascends steeply for an hour to Deurali (2150 m), passing through Tolkha village (1850 m). Tolkha is a vantage point to see the panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I (8167 m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Hiunchuli (6441 m), Fishtail (6997 m), Annapurna III (7755 m), Annapurna IV (7525 m), Annapurna II (7937 m), and Lamjung Himal (6930 m). From Birethanti, a half-hour's walk takes us to Naya Pul. The journey on foot comes to an end at Nayapul. We then drive to Pokhara for an overnight stay.
On the eighth and final day of our trip, we drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu for about seven hours. On the way, we will head up to Damauli, Dumre, Muglin, and Kurintar, where Nepal's first cable car joins the Manakamana Temple. From Naubishe, we climb up to Thankot, the gateway to the capital city of Kathmandu. From Poonhill Ghorepani Trek
It was one of the finest trips. Every activity was smooth. I got to visit again. Thanks to the team for making my trip great.
To everyone out there, not many people still know about this heaven on earth, Nepal. To my fellow travelers out there, as a travel lover myself, I'd like to recommend you guys give a shot to Nepal and travel at least once in a lifetime, as you'll get to see how alive the culture and the city itself are. With the warm and hospitable coordination from Mr. Dina Nath Panta and his team, my trip to Nepal has been so much more beautiful than I'd ever imagined while travelling to other countries. once again, thanks to Mr.Dinanath Panta and his team
With a very honest heart, I'd describe my trip to Nepal with simply one word:' serenity''. The trip to such a vibrant place, full of calmness and the majestic aura of the mountains overlooking the world, was full of awesomeness. Not just Ghorepani, but the nation of Nepal as a whole, feels alive. So I'd personally recommend everyone make a visit to this beautiful and culturally alive nation, Nepal.
Clothing
Handwear
Footwear
Gear
Miscellaneous
The Ghorepani trek lies in the Annapurna area and is located in the north-central part of Nepal.
Yes, for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, you have to obtain an Annapurna Area Conservation Project (ACAP) permit that can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), Kathmandu, and Damnside Pokhara.
There are two different permits: ACAP permits and TIM cards. The price of permits is:
ACAP permit cost: $30 US per person
TIMS card cost: $10 US (a trek through a trekking agency)
TIMS card cost: $20 US ( Trek by yourself)
Yes, there are many locations where you can charge all your electronic devices. You are advised to get your own charging cables. And it is also suggested that you keep your electronic stuff warm inside the backpack, as the cold temperature might drain the battery faster.
The Ghorepani poon-hill trek (2028m ) is short and simple compared to other trips. Ghorepani is the highest place where you'll spend the night. Due to this reason, there is little to no risk of getting altitude sickness. during this long and short trip. since altitude sickness generally takes place after exceeding 3500 meters of altitude.
If you're trekking alone, you can share your health-related issues with your hotel owner or with your nearest friend around you. Similarly, if you are trekking with your trekking guide, you can tell him about your problem, and he'll assist you in getting the required medication. but if its a major issue, he'll organize an emergency helicopter evacuation.
Yes, they do provide the Wi-Fi service, as every single teahouse now has Wi-Fi services plus a hot shower, for which they'll charge a small amount of money, about $2.
Given that you can take a jeep service straight to Nangethati for the next two days, you can avoid walking for a full day, and two days will be enough to reach Kathmandu. However, if you are already in Pokhara, two days will be sufficient.
