Easy

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking

Duration

4-5 days

Max Altitude

3,210m (Poon Hill)

Difficulty

Easy

Best Season

Year-round

Trek Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking, ideal for families, beginners, or those with limited time. Despite its shorter duration and moderate difficulty, this trek offers spectacular mountain views and rich cultural experiences.

Wake up early to witness the unforgettable sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m), with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and many other peaks bathed in golden light. The trek passes through beautiful rhododendron forests that bloom spectacularly in spring.

Experience the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities, stay in comfortable teahouses, and enjoy well-maintained trails suitable for trekkers of all ages.

Trek Highlights

Spectacular sunrise views from Poon Hill viewpoint
Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Walk through enchanting rhododendron forests (stunning in spring)
Visit the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk
Experience authentic mountain village life
Well-established teahouse trail with comfortable accommodations
Suitable for families and trekkers of all ages

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

5-Day Standard Itinerary

Short but spectacular trek featuring the famous Poon Hill sunrise panorama

Total Duration: 5 days

Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)

1,540m

1.5 hours drive + 3-4 hours trek

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Teahouse

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5 hours) through beautiful countryside. Begin trekking following the Modi Khola river. Pass through charming villages and terraced rice paddies. Cross suspension bridge and climb gradually to Birethanti, the entrance to the Annapurna Conservation Area. Continue along the river and then climb to Tikhedhunga. First day is a warm-up for tomorrow's big climb.

Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,870m)

2,870m

6-7 hours

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Teahouse

Challenging day climbing the famous stone staircase with over 3,000 steps. Steep ascent through beautiful forests passing several tea houses. Reach Ulleri village, a large Magar settlement. Continue climbing through rhododendron and oak forests (spectacular in spring when rhododendrons bloom). Pass through Banthanti and Nangethanti villages. Final push to Ghorepani through beautiful forest. Arrive with stunning views of Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri.

Day 3: Ghorepani to Tadapani via Poon Hill (2,630m)

3,210m at Poon Hill, trek to 2,630m

1 hour sunrise hike + 5-6 hours trek

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Teahouse

Wake up early (around 4:30 AM) for the pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m). Climb about 300m in darkness using headlamps with hundreds of other trekkers. Watch spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas - one of Nepal's most famous viewpoints. 360-degree panorama including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, and Himchuli. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Trek through magnificent rhododendron forests to Tadapani with occasional mountain views.

Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m)

1,940m

4-5 hours

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Teahouse

Beautiful forest walk through rhododendron, oak, and bamboo. Gradual descent with occasional climbs over ridges. Views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Cross several streams and through small settlements. Reach Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. Visit the Gurung Museum to learn about local culture. Spectacular evening views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre from the village.

Day 5: Ghandruk to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara

820m

5-6 hours trek + 1.5 hours drive

Breakfast, Lunch

N/A

Final day descending through terraced farmlands and traditional villages. Pass stone houses with slate roofs. Trek through Modi Khola valley with views of surrounding hills. Long descent of about 600m through stone steps and paths. Reach Kimche and continue to Nayapul. Meet your vehicle for the drive back to Pokhara. Arrive in Pokhara with time to relax by Phewa Lake or explore Lakeside. Optional farewell dinner celebrating your trek.