GHOREPANI POON HILL TREK

  • DURATION10 Days
  • DIFFICULTY-LEVELModerate
  • GROUP SIZE1-14
  • MAX ALTITUDE3210

Highlights

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
  • A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Explore Pokhara, the City of Lakes
  • Trek through lush forests and beautiful villages
  • Get to see the daily lifestyle and culture of Locals
  • Spend a night in Ghorepani village and hike to Poon Hill viewpoint
  • Explore the Ghandruk village
  • Breath-taking landscapes and remarkable views of the western Himalayan Mountains

Trip Overview

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the best way to experience the soft adventure of trekking in the Himalayas for beginner trekkers or travelers with limited time to explore.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek explores the lower western part of the Himalayas, the beautiful Annapurna region. The region houses the seventh and tenth highest mountains, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) & Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) of the world, including numerous other towering mountains.

You get to see many mountains along with picturesque villages, colorful terraced fields, green hills, local cultural heritage, and diverse vegetation on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Not only that, the trail goes through Annapurna Conservation Area, which increases your chance of coming across the wildlife and birds.

Away from the bustle of city life, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers quality time in nature and lets you unwind along the trail as it progresses into remoteness. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek has won the heart of millions of trekkers from all around the world. The trekking trail is easy with a few steep moderate parts, inevitable in the Himalayas.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is also one of the best trekking trails for people of all ages. We highly recommend doing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek to all adventure lovers, who are looking for a short trek. You can do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek on lesser days as well. We have 3 Days Poon Hill Trek and 4 Days Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek, those starts and ends in Pokhara.

Why Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu

You will have a day in Kathmandu to visit the tourist sites and explore the centuries-old Nepali art & architecture in the city. On the second day of the itinerary, we have added a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour guide will take you to monuments like the Monkey Temple, holy Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhnath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

If you get a chance, then you can also visit the Garden of Dreams by yourself located in Thamel. It used to be a royal garden and also known as the Garden of Six Seasons. The palace now serves as the government office, and the garden is open to tourists.

A scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

The starting point of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is Nayapul, which is an hour-long drive from Pokhara. A scenic route from Kathmandu takes you to Pokhara. The drive is around 6 to 7 hours long.

The road to Pokhara is well made and presents gorgeous views of rolling green hills, terraced fields, small settlement areas, rivers, and waterfalls. The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara is marvelous and warms up your heart for what is left to come.

Explore Pokhara, the City of Lakes

Pokhara is the second biggest city in Nepal and a favorite destination for travelers. The intriguing blend of modernization and nature of this city is a thing to look at, and you will find yourself from the thriving local markets to the laid-back palm of nature in the blink of an eye. Along with that, there are many caves, waterfalls, museums, and viewpoints around the city where you can visit. Moreover, you can also do outdoor sports activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, mountain flights, rock climbing, etc.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek goes through lush forests and beautiful villages

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking route goes through forests of rhododendron, pine, oak, fir, etc. The trail crosses many streams and suspension bridges. You will be passing by remote mountain villages and waterfalls. From Nayapul, the trail gradually ascends through Hille, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, Banthanti, and Ghandruk before descending back to Nayapul.

Get to see the daily lifestyle and culture of Locals

The villages along the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are resided by people from different communities like Brahmin, Chhetri, Gurung, Magar, Newar, and many others. While passing by these villages or spending the night there, you will have a chance to look into their daily lifestyle, practices, and values. Likewise, you also come across temples and monasteries along the route. The trek will teach you to live in harmony and unity even with all the diversity.

Spend a night in Ghorepani village and hike to Poon Hill viewpoint

Ghorepani village is situated at 2,874 meters and is famous for the views around it. The village is surrounded by lovely rhododendron forests and snow-capped Himalayan Mountains. Travelers love the tranquility of the village and the welcoming hearts of villagers.

Above Ghorepani village is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters. It is a viewpoint that offers a gorgeous sunrise along with Himalayan mountain views, and Poon Hill is one of the highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

Explore the Ghandruk village

Located at 2,012 meters, Ghandruk is the home of the legendary Gurkhas. This village has a recruitment center for Gurkha soldiers. It is a beautiful village with tempting views and lively locals. Mostly resided by Gurungs, this village offers a captivating view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Annapurna South, etc.

Breath-taking landscapes and remarkable views of the western Himalayan Mountains

You will be accompanied by outstanding sceneries and mountain views throughout the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The trail offers views of many snow-capped western Himalayan mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mt. Annapurna Range (8,091 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), etc.

Itinerary

Open All DaysClose All

You can meet our airport representative around the terminal gate at Tribhuvan International Airport. He will greet you on behalf of us and take you to the hotel. We have a pre-booked hotel for you.

Check-in and get refreshed. Later, stroll on the lively streets of Thamel and end day dining as per your wish. You can find numerous restaurants in Thamel serving cuisine from all around the world.

  • Hotel
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

You will go on a Kathmandu guided sightseeing tour of monuments like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. All of these monuments showcase Nepali art, architecture, culture, and history.

There are many other tourist sites in Kathmandu. However, visiting all of them in one day is not possible. Later in the late afternoon, we have organized a small briefing session with your trek guide. Know about the trail. Meet with your trek guide, and prepare for the journey.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

The day begins early as you will be driving to Pokhara. The drive will be around 6 to 7 hours long. You can see storybook-like scenery during the drive. Lush green rolling hills accompanied by rushing rivers along with colorful terraced fields, cascading waterfalls, and small settlement areas. Upon reaching Pokhara, check-in the hotel and rest.

Later, you can stroll on the busting Lakeside Market. If you want to have some alone time, then we highly recommend boating on tranquil Phewa Lake, enjoying a gorgeous sunset.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 830
  • Pokhara

After having breakfast, take an hour-long drive to Nayapul. From here, the trail goes through lush forests and terraced fields. The trail moves along a river.

Further, walking along the northern bank of Bhurung Khola, you reach Hille (1,495 m) and ascend towards Tikhedhunga.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 1580
  • Tikhedunga

From Tikhedhunga, the trail steeply ascends to Ulleri (2,073 m). On the way to Ghorepani, you can see stunning views of the Annapurna Range, Mt. Fishtail, and Mt. Hiunchuli.

Further, the trail passes through lush rhododendron forest and takes you to Nanghethani (2,460 m). Continue trekking from here and reach beautiful Ghorepani village for the night stay.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 2860
  • Ghorepani

Wake up early in the morning to catch a glorious sunrise from Poon Hill. The trail ascends through rhododendron-covered rugged paths. From this viewpoint, you can see breath-taking views of western Himalayan Mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Tukuche, and many others.

After spending some time here, you descend to Ghorepani and have a delicious breakfast. The trail then goes through dense forests of oak and rhododendron to Deurali (2,960 m). Further, follow a downhill path to Banthanti (2,606 m) and cross a stream. The trail then ascends steeply to Tadapani.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 3210
  • Tadapani

From Tadapani, the trail gradually descends through lovely forests of rhododendron to Ghandruk village. Along the way, you might get to see wildlife and birds chirping. You can see fantastic views of Himalayan Mountains like Annapurna Range, Mt. Ganapurna, Mt. Machhapuchhre, and others on the way. Ghandruk is a famous village resided mostly by Gurung and Maga people.

  • Guest House
  • B, L, D
  • 1940
  • Ghandruk

Today, you will be following a downhill trail from Ghandruk that leads to Nayapul. The trail goes through small villages and dense forests. From Nayapul, you drive back to Pokhara, following the same route. Spend the night in beautiful Pokhara city.

  • Hotel
  • B, L
  • 830
  • Pokhara

After having breakfast, you drive back to Kathmandu. The drive will be long but scenic. Upon reaching Kathmandu, move to the hotel and spend the remaining day relaxing & exploring the local market.

As it is your last day in Kathmandu, go shopping. In the evening, meet with the team over complimentary dinner.

  • Hotel
  • B
  • 1345
  • Kathmandu

With numerous lifelong memories, it is time to return to your home or leave for your next destination. You meet with our airport representative at your hotel lobby as per your flight departure time.

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What's Included

  • Airport Transfers
  • 3 night hotel in Kathmandu including breakfast
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu as per the itinerary
  • 2 night hotel in Pokhara including breakfast
  • 4 night accommodation in lodge/tea house on trek
  • Meals during the trek with hot tea/coffee in breakfast
  • Conservation entry permits & TIMS permit
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu –-Pokhara - Kathmandu by Tourist bus
  • A Guide and porters (1 porter for 2 peoples)
  • Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation and Insurance for the Guide and Porter
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary

What's Excluded

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals (lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara)
  • Your personal expenses, drink water, hot and cold drinks & bar bills
  • Laundry, telephone, hot shower & internet charge
  • Entrances fees while visit Kathmandu on second day
  • Tips for the guide and porters
  • Anything not mentioned in included section

Useful Information

Permit Required for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Yes, You need some permits to trek on Ghorepani Poon Hill. You are required to have Annapurna conservation area entry and TIM’s permit. We at Escape Nepal apply and get these permits for you once you book Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from us.

Best Time for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon hill Trek is available and doable throughout the year. However, the autumn (from mid-September till mid-December) and spring (from the beginning of March until May end) are the best time for this trek.

Fitness Required for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

A moderate level of fitness is required with daily walking/trekking from between 3 hours to 8 hours for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. You will reach an altitude of 3210m above sea level on this trek. You do not need to have previous trekking experience. However, you need to have good health and a strong desire and stamina to complete the hiking with positive thoughts.

Accommodation on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

We provide a hotel for five nights (3 nights in Kathmandu and two nights in Pokhara) and simple lodge/teahouse accommodation for the rest of the four nights on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The rooms are basic, Normally, just a bed with a pillow and blankets on available lodges and some of them are very basic, and a sense of adventure is necessary.

Hotels to be provided:

  •    Hotel in Kathmandu: Hotel Samsara Resort: 3 nights
  •    Hotel in Pokhara: Hotel splendid view: 2 nights
  •    Hotel on Trek: Simple Mountain lodge: 4 nights

Notes:

  •    If the above hotel is not available, then we provide you other similar hotels.
  •    Accommodation will be on double/twin share (triple share available in most places also).
  •    Hotel upgrade in Kathmandu and Pokhara is available as there are luxury 4 & 5-star hotels available in these cities so, let us know if you want to upgrade the hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara.

Meals & Drinks on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

A total of 19 meals (9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners) are included in our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package. These meals are taken in lodges. Breakfasts and dinners are taken at the lodge, where stay overnights and lunch at the lodge available along the trail. The guide will stop and provide lunch at lunchtime.

You can find a wide variety of Nepali and Western meals on this trail. However, Nepali set meals (Dal Bhat is available everywhere). The drinks like coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer etc...also available in all places and note that these drinks are not included in our price.

We suggest you bring water purification pills/medicine while coming for the Ghorepani Poon hill trek since you can have normal water for free so, you use the medicine and drink, or you have the option to buy bottled or boiled/safe water to drink.

Extra night hotel pre or post the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Extra night hotel in Kathmandu pre or post the trek is available at the US $ 55.00 that include breakfast and airport transfers.

Let us know if you arrive earlier or stay in Nepal later than the scheduled date. We can book the extra nights as per your need.

Transportation Used on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

We provide a private vehicle for airport transfers and tours in Kathmandu and tourist buses for Kathmandu- Pokhara – Kathmandu.

However, you have options to drive by private car/jeep from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu or a short flight from Kathmandu – Pokhara - Kathmandu.

Please, do let us know if you want to upgrade the modes of transport to private or flights.

Electricity and battery charge on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

There is electricity available in Kathmandu and Pokhara and in most of the villages of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, where you can recharge your camera/mobile batteries, and it may cost you some fee. However, we strongly suggest you have spare batteries too in case of not availability.

Guide and Crew on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

We provide a tourist guide for a day tour in Kathmandu on day two and a trained trekking/certified trekking guide for the whole trek who handles the logistics and guide you and your team on the trekking.

We also provide you a Sherpa (assistant guide) when there are eight or more members in the group and porters to carry your luggage. There is a porter for every two members, and a porter carries about 20 - 22KG, which means 10- 11 KG from each trekker.

Equipment List for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Equipment is very important to have a comfortable and successful Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal. So, you need to pack your gear carefully and pack only the things that you need and not anything that you no need for the trek.

To help you to pack your gear for the Nepal student tour, we have given some list that you should not miss while you are packing.

General

  • Four seasons sleeping bag (we provide you one if you do not have).
  • Duffel or Rucksack bag to keep all your gear, which will be carried by the porter.
  • Daypack for yourself to keep your things, such as a camera, water, and things that you need for the day.
  • A small lockable bag to keep the extra stuff that you do not use on the trek, and this can be kept at the hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara and get a return after the trekking.
  • A down Jacket (we provide you one if you do not have
  • Shade hat
  • Warm wool hat to cover your ears
  • A pair of light-weight warm gloves
  • T-shirts 2 pieces
  • Lightweight thermal tops
  • A fleece jacket
  • Raincoat (if you are traveling in monsoon time)
  • A pair of trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
  • Some pairs of warm socks
  • A pair of light to medium weight waterproof hiking/trekking boots
  • A pair of light trekking shoes or sandals for camp/lodges
  • A water bottle
  • Head/torch Light
  • A medium-size towel
  • Walking poles (optional)

Medicines and First Aid Kits

  • We recommend consulting with your doctor for medication suggestions to take for these regions.

Miscellaneous but Important

  • Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies), these extra passport photos are necessary to obtain the trekking permits.
  • Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
  • Lip balm at least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
  • Sun cream with SPF 40
  • Pocket knife
  • Water purification Iodine tablets (optional)
  • Toiletry kit and be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.