Nestled in the majestic Annapurna region, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek stands out as an inviting adventure for beginners and seasoned hikers alike! This trek is a perfect introduction to the Himalayas, offering an enriching experience that can be undertaken in all seasons.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is especially appealing due to its moderate difficulty level and the relatively short time required to complete it. The trek is manageable yet rewarding, with well-defined paths and comfortable teahouses dotting the route. Its accessibility makes it an ideal choice for those new to trekking or those limited by time but eager to experience the iconic Himalayan landscapes.
Climbing to an altitude of 3,210 m (10,530 ft) at Poon Hill, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic sunrise view over the Himalayas, including vistas of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. This iconic viewpoint makes the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek a favorite among those looking for a short yet profoundly scenic Himalayan adventure.
What to Know About the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Highest Point: 3,210 m (10,530 ft)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 40 km (25 mi)
- Time: 3-4 days. In our case, we did it in 3 days.
- Total Ascent: 2,000 m (9843 ft)
- Total Descent: 3,000 m (6549 ft)
- Permits: A TIMS card and an Annapurna Sanctuary permit are required
- Guide: It is compulsory to have a licensed guide for all treks in Nepal, however we saw plenty of people without guides as well.
- Cost: Expect to pay around 250 – 350 USD. This includes guides, permits, food, and accomodation.
- Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouses line the route
- Facilities: There teahouses on this trail all have wi-fi, electricity for charging, and hot showers.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Difficulty
How to Get to the Trailhead
The preferred route for tackling the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek typically begins in Nayapul and concludes in Ghandruk, a path well-trodden by many trekkers due to its scenic diversity and balanced elevation changes, encompassing a total ascent of 3000 m (9843 ft) and a descent of 1996 m (6549 ft)
Alternatively, starting the trek in Ghandruk and finishing in Nayapul is also a viable option. This is actually what we did. This reverse route offers a slightly less challenging ascent of 2000 m (6,562 ft) but includes a greater descent of 3000 m (9843 ft), which may be preferable for those looking to ease the strain on their knees.
Both starting points, Nayapul and Ghandruk, are well-connected to Pokhara by jeeps and buses.
What to Bring for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Here’s a comprehensive list of essentials to bring along:
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Headlamp: Essential for early morning starts, especially when you’re trekking to Poon Hill in the dark to catch the sunrise.
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Gloves and Beanie: The temperature can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes and during early mornings at the summit.
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Money: Carry around 200 NPR per person for the entrance fee and for tipping.
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Hiking Poles: These can greatly assist your ascent and are especially helpful for navigating the descent, which can be tough on the knees.
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Insurance: Insurance that covers emergency evacuation and medical expenses is vital for safety. Make sure your policy covers trekking activities up to at least 3,500 meters. I recommend checking out SafetyWing for your travel insurance needs.
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Clothing: Layering is key. Include moisture-wicking base layers, insulating layers, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
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Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun, which can be particularly harsh at higher elevations.
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First Aid Kit: Include basic first aid supplies such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister plasters, and any personal medications.
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Adapters: Nepalese plugs are of Type D, and the voltage is about 220-240 V.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The journey begins in Pokhara, from where you’ll travel to Ghandruk, a prominent village within the Gurung community. In Ghandruk, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, visiting the Gurung museum and engaging with the welcoming residents. The hospitality you’ll encounter here adds a warm touch to your visit.
From Ghandruk, the path leads you through a lush rhododendron forest to spend the night in Tadapani. Continuing on, your next stop is Ghorepani, another village enriched with Gurung heritage. The trek then ascends to the renowned Poon Hill, situated at an elevation of 3,210 meters. This spot is celebrated as the prime viewpoint for the sweeping panoramas of the Annapurna range. Witnessing the first rays of sunrise illuminate the peaks creates a mesmerizing spectacle.
After reveling in the mountain vistas, the route descends to Ulleri and subsequently, you return to Pokhara by road.
We went with Nepal Alternative Treks to get a guide. Alternatively, you can also join this 4-Day tour if you have the time to spare.
Day 1 - Ghandruk to Tadapani
Following an early breakfast in Pokhara, your adventure begins with a scenic drive to Nayapul. Along the way, you are treated to breathtaking views of the Pokhara Valley, setting the tone for the day ahead. Upon arrival in Nayapul, take a short break to enjoy some snacks and tea, refreshing yourself before continuing the journey.
The drive proceeds to Ghandruk, a peaceful Gurung village where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the local culture and enjoy a delightful lunch. It won’t be a while until you encounter the next teahouse. Ghandruk offers a unique glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the Gurung people, there’s even a Gurung museum you can check out.
After lunch, you’ll start the trekking portion of your journey. The trail leads you through dense rhododendron forests, offering spectacular views of Machhapuchhre. The hike to Tadapani takes about four hours from Ghandruk, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you.
Your first day concludes with an overnight stay in Tadapani. Positioned at an altitude of 2,680 m (8,844 ft), Tadapani provides a serene setting to relax and rejuvenate after a fulfilling day of trekking.
Day 1 Overview:
- Driving Duration: 2 hours to Ghandruk
- Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 mi)
- Hiking Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Altitudes: Nayapul at 1,940 m (6,402 ft); Tadapani at 2,680 m (8,844 ft)
Day 2 - Tadapani to Ghorepani
Following a nourishing breakfast, day two of your trek begins with a descent to a charming stream, where you cross via a quaint wooden bridge. From there, the trail takes you uphill through dense rhododendron forests towards Banthanti. As you ascend, you’ll pass small water fountains and waterfalls. The path continues through a beautifully lush jungle (just like Chitwan’s) until you reach Deurali.
In Deurali, you’ll pause for lunch in this scenic spot, recharging before the next segment of your hike. Post-lunch, the journey resumes with an ascent through captivating oak forests. This portion of the trek offers a refreshing walk amidst the cooling shade of the trees.
After leaving the forest, the trail leads downhill and brings you to Ghorepani. Nestled at an altitude of 2,850 m (9,405 ft), Ghorepani is a welcoming village that serves as a significant checkpoint on numerous Annapurna region treks.
Day 2 Overview:
- Hiking Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi)
- Hiking Duration: 6 hours
- Altitude: 2,850 m (9,405 ft)
Day 3 - Poon Hill to Ulleri
Where to Stay in Pokhara
Pokhara is one of the most charming places to stay while you’re in Nepal. The air is fresh and clean, the surroundings lush and beautiful, and the people are very kind and helpful!
Staying by the Lakeside area is recommended as that’s where all the action is from outdoor shops, souvenirs, spas, and of course, Phewa Lake.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Pokhara:
Best Hotels in Pokhara:
- Hotel Middle Path & Spa – offers clean, comfortable accommodations with select rooms boasting panoramic views of Pokhara’s mountains. Each air-conditioned room features a seating area, desk, and TV with satellite channels, along with private bathrooms equipped with hot/cold showers. While all rooms are accessible only by stairs, the hotel provides a 24-hour front desk service, luggage storage, room service, and a tour desk ready to assist with travel plans and free information.
- Pokhara Alpine and Springs – offers an array of amenities including a terrace, free private parking, a bar, and complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Accommodations at the hotel feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and balconies with garden views. The on-site restaurant also caters to vegetarian, dairy-free, and halal dietary preferences.
- Bar Peepal Resort – enjoy amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, free private parking, and a beautifully landscaped garden. The resort features comprehensive facilities such as a restaurant, a shared kitchen, a free shuttle service, and free WiFi throughout the premises. There’s also a shared lounge, room service, and currency exchange available. Each room at the resort is well-equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, and a terrace that provides a city view.
Best Hostels in Pokhara:
- Kiwi Backpackers Hostel – this is where we stayed and it’s a very cozy and well furnished hostel. We had private twin rooms that came with an on-suite bathroom. Working hot showers and quiet nights as they have a noise curfew, thank goodness! Comes with free breakfast which was usually french toast and fruits, but you won’t hear me complaining. They also have meditation and yoga classes for those who are interested.
- Pokhara Backpackers Hostel – this lively hostel, adorned with mountain murals and stocked with board games, offers a social vibe, cozy dorms, and private rooms. You can enjoy a free rooftop continental breakfast with views of the Annapurna Range and Machapuchare. Explore secret trails, quaint villages, hidden waterfalls, and traveler-run cafes.
- Forest Lake Backpackers Hostel – offers incredible views of Phewa Lake, making it the perfect base to relax and explore the city. Enjoy premium Wi-Fi, a rooftop hangout with breathtaking lake and mountain views, and free luggage storage while you trek. Comes with clean and comfy dorms that feature private curtains, individual reading lights, and mini fans.
Best Time to Do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek offers its best experiences during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the climate in Nepal stabilizes, providing ideal trekking conditions with moderate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Other Seasons:
- Summer: While trekking is possible, temperatures during the summer months (June – August) can rise above 20°C (68°F), making the days warmer.
- Winter: The colder months (November – February) see temperatures dipping below -5°C (23°F) at higher altitudes. Trekkers should be well-prepared with appropriate gear to handle the cold. We actually did ours in January, it was cold in the night and mornings, but definitely doable!
- Monsoon Season: Although not the optimal time for trekking due to rain and potential mudslides, the monsoon season (June – September) offers a quieter trail experience for those who don’t mind the wet conditions. The landscape is lush and the trails less crowded.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Experience
And so begins the journey to the Himalayas. Lisa and I ate our breakfast and were shortly joined by Shom of the Gurung People. He was to be our guide today.
The first order of business was taking a ride to Ghandruk where we were going to begin the hike. We arrived early but things seemed to move slowly and we ended up waiting for more than an hour before we were finally able to get in the van.
The ride itself was quite immersive as they were playing folk music as we traversed the zig-zagging roads. Both Lisa and I had to take motion sickness medicine as the roads were quite bumpy. With some brief stops along the way, we soon found ourselves at Ghandruk. We had our lunch here, a black dog sleeping right by our seats.
We visited the nearby Gurung museum which was really just an old warehouse with several items they used in daily life. There was also a misunderstanding with Tej as we did request two pairs of trekking poles but we only got one pair instead that we had to share so that was very weird but oh well, the hike begins.
The trek took us through various landscapes, from ancient forests, rocky crags, tall waterfalls, and stone stupas. The dog from earlier following us or more like taking the lead. We soon got to Tadapani where we were to rest for the night. The tea house we were staying in had exquisite views of the Himalayan mountain range but nothing beats the comfort of staying by the fireplace. Hours went by, and an older couple and another bloke played cards and chatted away, Lisa joining them at one point.
I made friends with the lady manning the teahouse, Ram Kumari, and she showed me her Tiktok which was so adorable. She and her friends would do these funny dances over folk music as they handled the slices of life: gathering wood and whatnot.
Lisa went to take a shower first, though she did take an awfully long time. It turns out that the water stopped during the shower. Oh poor girl, she wasn’t exactly the most cold-tolerant so the ordeal must have been difficult, to say the least.
I had to test it out myself and indeed, the water flow was too weak to warm up the whole body so even with warm water it didn’t exactly feel like the hot shower I imagined it to be. Nevertheless, I felt refreshed and tucked myself in our sleeping bags. Only to not get sleep because of that one dude who snored so loud we could hear it from our side of the room.
Our second day takes us from Tadapani to Ghorepani. I was already feeling a bit of altitude sickness today as it was made apparent by my lack of appetite during breakfast.
We continued our hike with steeper uphills without much breaks in between, it was brutal because I found myself out of breath quickly, with a pulsing headache throughout. I was also hungry as I only had a light breakfast and lunch was still a way to go.
Even when we did reach our lunch point, the clouds covering the sun made waiting a battle in itself. It was really cold up there and I ended up succumbing and grabbing the down jackets which I should have done much earlier. I also didn’t have much appetite for lunch despite being hungry, what a paradox.
Eventually, our trek took us to the highest point of the day which we had to ourselves. A quiet time of reflection and introspection, with the views of the far-off Himalayan mountain range beyond.
After less than an hour or so, we finally reached Ghorepani around late afternoon. I was relieved to know that I could now spend the rest of the day lazing around the fireplace. I felt the altitude sickness much more with my head aching while I tried to get some rest. A black dog disturbed me quite a lot though it’s a pretty cute one so I’ll forgive him.
Day turned to night, and the whole time I was still by the fireplace. Dinner was served and I still had a hard time eating the macaroni I ordered, but hopefully tomorrow was going to be better as we were going down.
The last day of our 3-day trek. I was glad we were going to go down today as the altitude sickness still hadn’t gone away. We had to wake up extra early today at around 5:00AM to catch the sunrise up on Poon Hill.
I went to the bathroom to freshen up only to go down to an empty lodge. Where was Lisa? Perhaps she was using the bathroom as well. I waited for a long time in the silence of the dark. Shom soon showed up, asking where Lisa was. I thought she was with him, we waited a bit and looked around a bit more but Shom said we had to go.
All my stuff was still in our room, including my gloves, trekking pole, and water. We were having breakfast after the hike up so I had no choice but to just go for it. My head was pounding, Shom was also sick. We were two sorry guys, stopping by now and then to catch our breath before continuing the hike up in total silence.
I was a bit worried about Lisa, did she go on ahead or was she behind? It was the last day and what we worked hard to see, would have been so sad if we couldn’t see it together.
When we got to the top though, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Lisa was already there. She had followed another group because she thought Shom and I had already left first. Well, either way, it was great that we were able to see the sunrise. However, I was too tired and just headed straight for the benches to rest. I just wanted to start going down already, I couldn’t even bring myself to go up to the observatory to get a better view. I was already quite satisfied with the views and the golden hour.
We began our hike back down together this time. Back at the teahouse, I tried to eat breakfast in the form of oatmeal and fruits which still proved a bit difficult to finish but I tried my best. I snuck in a morning shower as well, now we were about to go down, finally.
The descent was much easier, alternating with some gentle inclines every now and then. We were making good progress. Just after a few hours, we got to the van pick up areas and thus the trek was over. We were well on our way to Pokhara once again, stopping by for lunch in between.
Plan Your Trip to Nepal | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
