- DestinationNepal
- Duration10 days
- Trip DifficultyModerate
- ActivitiesTrek
- Max. Elevation3210m.
- Group Size1-15
- VehicleCar, Deluxe AC Bus
- AccommodationGuesthouse
- MealsB.L.D
- Trek StartUlleri
Poon Hill Trek: A Family-Friendly Trek in Annapurna
Poon Hill Trek is a trekking trip perfect for a family and beginner hikers who are looking for a easy walk in Nepal’s Annapurna region. The total trek distance is only 51 km, or 32 miles. The only serious challenge some may find is climbing the 3000 stone stairs in Ulleri. Either way, you can exclude this too by using a Jeep ride from Pokhara directly to Ulleri.
Choosing to hike to Poon Hill means you are already ahead of most people. The trek gives you the benefit of customizing the trip according to your available days, making it 4, 5, or 6 days of Poon Hill Trek, unlike other treks in Nepal. The starting point of the tour can be Pokhara or Kathmandu, depending on your location.
Major Highlights
Short and scenic trek in the Annapurna region
Ideal for beginners and families
Famous sunrise viewpoint at Poon Hill with panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Trek through lush rhododendron and oak forests, especially beautiful in spring bloom
Explore charming Gurung and Magar villages with rich culture and warm hospitality
Gentle trail with moderate ascents, accessible to trekkers of all ages
Spot wildlife along the forested trails
Comfortable tea houses with traditional Nepali food and local homestays
Flexible trek duration, can be completed in 4-6 days, perfect for limited time
A Typical Day on Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
A typical day on Ghorepani Poon Hill trek starts with the fresh mountain air. After getting ready, packing your bag, handing it over to the porter – the adventure is about to begin. You’ll then head to breakfast, load up on energy for the day ahead.
As the sun starts lighting up the towering peaks, you set off on the trek. The trail leads through diverse landscapes, and remember to take breaks for sips of water and necessary bathroom stops.
Around noon, there will be lunch break, lasting 45 minutes to an hour. Enjoy the mountain scenery and get ready to resume the trek with renewed energy. Typically, you trek for about three hours, take a substantial break, and then continue for another three hours or until you reach the next destination.
Depending on your journey’s progress, there will be a brief half-hour tea break. By late afternoon, you’ll reach your destination and settle into a tea house. Spend the evening sharing stories and enjoying warm meals with fellow trekkers.
During dinner time, your trek guide outlines the highlights of the next day’s trek. If you have any concerns, feel free to ask. Post-dinner, gather in the tea house dining area for cozy chit chatting by the fire. As the day comes to an end, you retire early to ensure an early start for tomorrow’s adventures.
Poon Hill Trek: Sunrise View and Village Experience in Annapurna
As the trip from Kathmandu takes you to Poon Hill and then to Ghandruk village, it won’t be wrong to refer to it as the Poon Hill-Ghandruk Trek too.
Poon Hill, the amazing viewpoint in the Annapurna range, is the major climax of the trek. From here, you can have the magical moment as the first golden rays of sunlight touch the mountain summits. This gives the sense of a glowing gem on the massive mountains of Fishtail or Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters/26,795 feet), Churen Himal (7,385 meters), Nilgiri (7,061 meters), Baraha Shikhar (7,220 meters), and Gangapurna (7,455 meters). You’ll see how the sun slowly covers the nearby mountains and hills with warm and glowing light.
Heaven Himalaya will arrange your trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a walk to Ghorepani village (2875 m) and then a short hike towards Poon Hill (3210 m). Later, after the hill climb, you hike to Ghandruk to explore the Gurung community.
Finally, from the village, you will drive back to Pokhara to end the trekking trip. Although your walking day ends in Pokhara, your actual trip ends in Kathmandu with an airport drop-off.
In short, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking package is the shortest and most beloved holiday trip in the Annapurna region and has it all: cultural references, sunrise views, mountain vistas, and a well-established trekking trail.
The budget-friendly Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is moderately easy and ideal for family trips. It’s a flexible route with multiple options - extend to Ghandruk, choose a Short Poon hill Trek, or enjoy a week-long luxury trek. Whatever you choose, your experience is gonna be fantastic.
Ready to turn your plan into memories? Let's start preparing for Poon hill Trek.
Short Itinerary-Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Day 1: Welcome to Nepal. Arrive at International Airport, Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft).
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley full day sightseeing: 4 hours (1,400m/4,593ft)
Day 3: Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) to Pokhara (822m/2,697ft): 6-7 hours
Day 4: Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (1,540m/5,050ft): 4 hours
Day 5: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9350ft): 4 hours
Day 6: Hike to Poonhill (3,210m/10531ft) and trek to Tadapani (2,630 m/8628 ft): 6 hours
Day 7: Trek to Ghandruk (2012m/6,601ft):4 hours
Day 8: Drive back to Pokhara(822m/ 2,697ft):4 hours.
Day 9: Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft)
Day 10: Final Departure (Farewell)
Cost Details
Inclusions
Airport transfers—pick up and drop off in a private vehicle
All ground transportation is by private transport (Kathmandu to Pokhara and back, Pokhara to Tikhedunga, Ghandruk to Pokhara).
A full-day guided sightseeing tour to world UNESCO Heritage Sites in Kathmandu with entrance tickets, private transport, and an excellent city tour guide
Your 3 nights of accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and 2 nights of accommodation in Pokhara with a breakfast plan
Your 4 nights of accommodation in the best guesthouses available (on a twin-sharing basis) during the Poon Hill trekking journey
Every day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
All paper work
National park and heritage site entry tickets
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) and trekking permit (ACAP)
A licensed, English-speaking, professional trekking guide along with a porter (1 for two clients)
All the costs of the guide and porter, including accidental insurance
Duffel bag, sleeping bags (to be returned to us after the trek)
Heaven Himalaya T-shirts, a route map, and a travel completion certificate
Farewell Dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with traditional music and dance
An oximeter to measure your oxygen and Pulse level during the trek in the mountain, it’s very useful for all the trekkers to be aware of the high altitude sickness.
Compressive first aid box (Guide will carry it throughout the trek).
Emergency rescue operation assistance is arranged in case of complex health conditions (funded by your Travel Insurance)
All applicable government taxes and service charges.
Exclusions
Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu and Pokhara
International airfare
Nepal entry visa fees ($50 USD for days tourist visa and it can be obtained at the Airport of Kathmandu on arrival!)
Travel insurance
Extra accommodation and meals behind schedule the schedules of this trekking trip program
All kinds of beverages including, alcoholic and nonalcoholic as well as hot and cold drinks
Additional costs by out of management control due to the landscape, weather conditions, illness, changes in government policies, strikes, physical conditions, etc.
Personal expenses such as shopping, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, hard and soft alcohols, snacks, hot and cold water, Wi-Fi, battery re-charge fee,
Travel insurance has to cover emergency rescue evacuation from high-altitude up to 6000 m.
Personal trekking equipment for this trek
Tipping and Gratitude to the guides and staff (Recommended by Nepali culture )
Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Price Inclusive section of this trek
Dates & Availability
Note to Travelers
Our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek costs include all ground costs, fully personalized benefits, and a free porter. We are a local tour operator, so the quote you get is the best price, with no mid-commission fees.
Kindly note that the start dates are your dates of arrival in Nepal, and your end dates are the dates of your departure from Nepal. Select a date and add several people, and then proceed to make a reservation.
Besides, the trekking fees mentioned here cover your 10-day itinerary. An additional cost will be generated if you have extra days in Kathmandu or would like to add or subtract the number of trekking days.
Read the cancellation and rescheduling terms and conditions.
Select Departure Date
No fixed group departures right now — run Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekprivately with your own group. Pick a preferred start date and we'll confirm availability.
Group-size discounts will be applied in the next step.
Select a start date from the calendar.
All prices per person, twin share. Subject to availability — Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek dates fill quickly in peak season.
10 days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Itinerary
Day 01 :Arrival in Nepal
- Elevation: 1,400m
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast Included
Upon your arrival at the Kathmandu International Airport, a representative from Heaven Himalaya will welcome you. After completing airport formalities, they will transfer you to the hotel in a private vehicle.
After setting in, take some time to refresh, especially if you feel tired from the journey. If your arrival is in the morning or afternoon, consider resting until the evening.
Later you can wander around the charming streets of Kathmandu. Enjoy a satisfying meal before a good night’s sleep at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 02 :Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing and Preparation
- Elevation: 1,400m
- Duration: 5-6 hrs
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast Included
Today, you’ll start your day with setting off for sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley. You’ll visit four prominent world cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu valley.
Your first stop is the Pashupatinath Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated on the banks of the Bagmati River. It stands as one of Nepal’s holiest Hindu temples.
Moving on, you’ll visit the Swayambhunath Temple, sitting atop a hill that lies to the west of the city, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, hills, and Kathmandu city.
Next on the itinerary is the Boudhanath Stupa, a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site adorned with intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
The exploration concludes at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic square showcasing traditional architecture and cultural richness.
Returning to your hotel after visiting these landmarks, you’ll have a brief meeting with your guide. During this session, the guide will provide a detailed overview of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek itinerary, assess your trekking gear, and address any concerns you may have.
After the meeting, if any trekking gear is missing, you can purchase or rent in Kathmandu. Conclude your day with delicious dinner, and ensure an early bedtime, as an early start awaits you on the following day.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Day 03 :Drive to Pokhara - 7 to 8 hours drive
- Elevation: 822m
- Duration: 7-8 hrs
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
In the early morning today, indulge in a quick breakfast before making your way to the bus station for your journey to Pokhara, the gateway to Annapurna region treks.
The scenic road journey takes you through quaint villages, follows the Trishuli River and traverses winding roads with steep drops on one side.
On the way to Pokhara, you may discover the historical Newari town of Bandipur. For those seeking an extra thrill, might consider engaging in white-river rafting on the Trishuli river.
Upon reaching Pokhara, take a moment to freshen up. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lakeside area. As the evening sets in, you can attend an evening aarti, conducted at the bank of Phewa Lake.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 04 :Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m/5,050ft) (9.2 kilometers / 5.7 miles) - 4 hours trek
- Elevation: 1,070m
- Duration: 4 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
On this day, your journey begins with a drive to Nayapul, located in the western part of Pokhara. Situated by the river and Pokhara Baglung highway, Nayapul is a quaint village. During this short road journey, the distinctive fishtail pinnacle of Machhapuchhre will give you constant company.
Once you reach Nayapul, initiate your trek towards Tikhedhunga. Initially, a short walk along a dusty road and followed by descending on a rocky stair which marks the starting point of the trail.
As you progress, the trekking path goes through several suspension bridges, green pastures, gurgling water streams and charming villages. First walking for a few minutes along the banks of Modi River, you reach the picturesque village of Birethanti.
From there, continuing along the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola, the trail leads to a steady climb up the valley side, passing through the village of Hile. After another short climb, you finally arrive at Tikhedhunga.
Overnight stay at Tikhedhunga.
Day 05 :Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,348ft) (12.9 kilometers / 8 miles) - 6 to 7 hours trek
- Elevation: 2,850m
- Duration: 5-7 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
On this day, start on the longest and most challenging part of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek as you make your way to Ghorepani village. However, the trail provides the splendid views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range.
All the way to Ghorepani village, you will walk through dense forest trails, with occasional surprises from rushing streams. You need to be cautious, especially in sections affected by landslides, and use trekking poles for support. Along the way, you’ll encounter picturesque villages, including Ulleri, Banthanti, and Nangethanti.
Ghorepani consists of two villages: Lower Ghorepani and Ghorepani, they are about 10 min and 100 m apart. First, you reach lower Ghorepani from there you need to take stairs to Ghorepani.
Ghorepani village provides easy access to the Poon Hill viewpoint. However, if you prefer a quieter setting, Lower Ghorepani village is an option. You can still reach Poon Hill from the lower village, as the trails meet at the entrance to Poon Hill.
Overnight stay in Ghorepani.
Day 06 :Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,532ft) and Trek to Tadapani (2,630m/8,628ft) (9.7 kilometers / 6 miles) - 6 hours trek
- Elevation: 3,210m
- Duration: 7 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Wake up early before dawn, wrap your warm clothes, grab your flashlight, and start the climb to Poon Hill. The highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is witnessing the sunrise from the hill’s peak.
Depending on your fitness, it will take 45 minutes to an hour and a half to reach the summit. The path is steep, especially if you start from Lower Ghorepani, adding a bit more uphill and downhill. However, the trail is easy to follow.
Once you reach the top, experience the awe-inspiring sunrise behind the Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
Enjoy a panoramic scenery of several mountain peaks including Gangapurna (7,455m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Dhampus Peak (6,012m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Gurja Himal (7,193m), and Nilgiri Himal (7,061m). After soaking in these beautiful moments, descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast.
Following that, trek to Tadapani, on a mostly downhill trail, passing through the small villages like Deurali and Banthanti. Before reaching Tadapani, there is a steep climb of a few hundred meters, marking your last ascent for the day.
Overnight stay in Tadapani.
Day 07 :Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft) (6.5 kilometer / 4 miles) - 4 hours trek
- Elevation: 1,940m
- Duration: 3-4 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Today, you’ll head towards Ghandruk which is one of the most fascinating Gurung villages in the mountains.
From Tadapani, you descend through the dense Rhododendron forests, through deep gorges, and along a clear small waterstream. The hike is easy on the foothills of Mount Annapurna. Throughout the trail, you’ll get to enjoy the unobstructed views of Annapurna range.
Once you come close to Ghandruk village the scenery starts changing to a more open and dryer forest.Ghandruk is one of the famous stopovers for hikers who are on the way or returning from the ABC- Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal.
Once you arrive at Ghandruk village you will see some mighty peaks such as Hiunchuli (6,441m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993m).
Overnight stay in Ghandruk
Day 08 :Drive back to Pokhara - 4 hours drive
- Elevation: 1,070m
- Duration: 3-4 hrs
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Early in the morning, witness the breathtaking sunrise from Ghandruk, bathing the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountain range in golden hues.
Enjoy a special Gurung breakfast in Ghandruk, featuring Gurung bread served either with honey and tea or boiled eggs and tea.
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you’ll return back to Pokhara via the Pokhara-Baglung Rajmarg road.
Once you arrive in Pokhara, freshen up and start exploring the major landmarks of Pokhara city. Depending on your arrival time, choose from various cultural and historically significant sites that Pokhara has to offer.
If time allows, engage in recreational activities like paragliding, ultralight flight, bungee jumping, etc.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Phewa River bank or enjoy a tranquil boat ride. With numerous options available, select activities based on your preferences and available time.
Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 09 :Drive to Kathmandu - 7 hours drive
- Elevation: 1,400m
- Duration: 7 hrs
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included
Today you have the flexibility to choose the means of transportation for the return journey to Kathmandu as per your preference.
Opting for a flight is advisable if time is limited, considering the ongoing road widening work, making the drive a full-day affair.
But if you have adequate time and a few contingency days in Nepal, a road journey is an alternative. It will take around 8 to 10 hours due to ongoing construction on the Prithivi highway.
Once you reach Kathmandu, you can freshen up and head out to explore the Kathmandu city. Later, join the Heaven Himalaya team for a farewell dinner. As a token of appreciation for successfully completing the trek, you’ll be presented with a certificate of achievement.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Keynote: Choosing a flight for the return journey will result in a relatively higher trip cost because flying is more expensive than traveling by road.
Day 10 :Final Departure
- Elevation: 1,400m
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast Included
Today, it’s time to say farewell to the beautiful Himalayan country Nepal. One of the representatives from Heaven Himalaya will accompany you to the Kathmandu International Airport.
While this marks the end of your current journey, it’s not a final farewell, as you’re always welcome to return and explore Nepal’s beauty at any time.
Wishing you the very best, we bid you goodbye for now, and you’ll be on your way back home. Safe travels!
Create a Bespoke Itinerary
Customize your Himalayan adventure with personalized itineraries for unforgettable experiences!
Route Map
Download
#Shorts
Traveller Reviews
Irina Anderson Unforgettable Ghorepani Poon hill trekk
We finally did it! The tour is completed. We had an absolutely fantastic, unforgettable experience with our Ghorepani Poon hill tour organised by the company "Heaven Himalaya". From the very beginning the communication with the owners of the company Sanjib and Ramhari was amazing. They answered all our questions very quickly and with a very high level of professionalism. They even were so kind to help us with the flying tickets back home when our plane was cancelled and quickly adjusted our route with no trouble. We can not thank them enough 🙏During the trail our guide Bishal and Sherpa Nimes were knowledgeable, very nice and helpful. We felt us safe all the time and we did not need to worry of anything. Our plane tours with Buddha and Yeti airlines were very good and quick. We are going to miss this wonderful country with kind, calm people who meet everyone with a smile and "Namaste"🙏
.avif&w=1920&q=75)
Suzanne K Extraordinary experiences
Thanks to our tour guide Mr Ram. We are very well taken care of, because of his good care and services. My children aged 9, 15, 17 years old didn't have many hiking experiences, but we made it up to Poonhill 3218m. Which is a great milestones in their growing path.
What to Pack
Clothing Essentials
Packing well can make your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek more comfortable and enjoyable. The right clothing helps you stay comfortable through changing temperatures, wind, rain, and cold conditions as you gain altitude. Layering is useful so you can easily adjust your clothing throughout the trek.
This packing list covers the essentials you will need while helping you avoid carrying more than necessary.
Keynote: Please remember to adjust the packing list based on the specific time of year you plan to trek and any personal preferences or needs you may have.
Upper Body
T-shirts (preferably quick-dry and breathable)
Windbreaker or parka
Rain jacket or poncho
Inner thermal layer
Fleece or warm mid-layer
Fleece jacket
Down jacket
Carry layers that can be added or removed easily as temperatures change during the day and at higher altitudes.
Lower Body
Undergarments
Trekking pants (preferably stretchable, quick-dry, and water-resistant)
Rain pants
Inner thermal layer
Fleece or wool pants
Handwear
Lightweight fleece or wool gloves
Heavyweight gloves
Carry both lightweight and warm gloves so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
Headwear & Eye Protection
Sun cap or brimmed hat
Sunglasses
Neck gaiter
Balaclava
Bandana or headscarf
Sunglasses are especially useful at higher altitudes, where sunlight and snow glare can be strong.
Footwear
Good footwear provides comfort, grip, and protection on long days of walking across different types of terrain.
Trekking boots
Hiking socks
Cotton socks
Trekking sandals
Gaiters (optional)
Running shoes (optional)
Note: Do not use brand-new trekking boots on the trek. Break them in beforehand to reduce therisk of blisters and foot discomfort.
Trekking Gears
Sleeping bag
Backpack
Hiking boot
Liner gloves
Trekking poles
Water bottle
Running shoes (optional)
Gaiters (optional)
Sandals, Flip-flop
Raincoat
Travel Documents & Extra Essentials
Travel Documents
These documents and essentials are needed for identification, permits, insurance, and other travel arrangements during the trek.
Passport (at least 6 months validity)
4 photocopies of passport
4–5 passport-size photos
Visa
Travel insurance
Trekking permits
Physical or digital trek map
Cash (minimum $400)
Miscellaneous
A few additional items can make your trek more convenient and give you useful options during rest periods and long days on the trail.
Solar power bank
Multi-usages power socket
Camera
Whistle
Head torch light
Trekking map
Raincoat
Snacks (trail mix, energy bars, or chocolates)
Money and small bills
Note: Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, so keep your devices warm and wrapped when not in use. At high altitudes, charging may be limited and often costs extra as facilities relyon solar power.
Provided by Heaven Himalaya
To make your trek preparation easier, Heaven Himalaya provides some essential items during the trip, helping you avoid carrying or purchasing everything yourself.
Before and During the Trek
Duffle bag – Provided for carrying your trekking gear during the trek.
Sleeping bag – Provided for use throughout the trek.
Down jacket – Available upon request for extra warmth at higher elevations.
At the End of the Trip
Heaven Himalaya T-shirt – A small keepsake to remember your trek.
Trip achievement certificate – Presented to commemorate your trekking achievement.
Note: The duffle bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket must be returned at the end of the trip. The Heaven Himalaya T-shirt and trip achievement certificate are yours to keep.
Toiletries and Medications
Toiletries & Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene items help you stay clean and comfortable throughout the trek, especially where access to regular showers and facilities may be limited.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Soap or small body wash
Dry shampoo
Quick-drying towel
Deodorant
Hand sanitizer
Lip balm with SPF
Wet wipes or baby wipes
Hairbrush
Moisturizer
Sunscreen with high SPF
Toilet paper
Water can be limited at higher elevations, and bathing facilities may be basic or unavailable. Pack essential toiletries and personal hygiene items so you can stay comfortable throughout the trek.
Medical & First Aid
A small personal medical and first-aid kit can help you manage common discomforts and minor issues during the trek.
Medications
Acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude sickness**
Paracetamol for headache and fever
Ibuprofen for pain relief
Antacids
Oral rehydration salts (Jeevan Jal)
Motion sickness medication
Personal medications
Antibiotics
Note: If you take any regular or prescribed medication, inform your guide at the beginning of the trek and make sure you carry enough for the entire journey.
First Aid Supplies
Bandages
Blister plasters
Handyplasts
Antiseptic wipes
Medical tape
Blister repair kit
Health & Protection
Water purification tablets or water filters
Lubricating eye drops
Oximeter
Thermometer
Things to Know before Ghorepani Poon hill Trek
To help you decide whether the Ghorepani Poon hill Trek matches your travel goals, we’ve included detailed information on important topics such as trek difficulty, accommodation and facilities, trek permits, travel insurances and the ideal seasons to visit etc.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Distance
The total trekking distance of Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is 51 km. However, the trekking distance varies depending on the starting and ending point of the trek. In this particular package, the trek begins from Nayapul and ends at Ghandruk.
Additionally, recent road construction has further shortened this already brief trek. You have the flexibility to choose your preferred starting and ending points, allowing customization of your itinerary according to your preferences.
Difficulty Level of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is not too hard, making it great for novice trekkers. Known for its shorter duration, clear routes, favorable weather, and comfortable accommodation choices, it stands out as one of the easiest treks in Nepal. It’s a popular choice for trekkers of all ages and skill levels.
The trails are mostly well-marked, and you walk through charming villages and forests. While there are some uphill climbs, they are not too steep.
Reaching a highest point of 3,210 meters, there’s a slight risk of altitude sickness. However, this can be effectively managed by gradual ascent, proper hydration, and listening to your body. With a moderate level of fitness, this trek offers magnificent mountain views for everyone to enjoy.
Poon Hill Trek Accommodation
Accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara offer luxurious hotels, providing a higher level of sophistication. But as you ascend to higher altitudes along the trek, the accommodation facilities become more basic.
On the Poon Hill hiking trail, numerous tea houses are available, offering essential services for your journey. Typically these tea houses provide twin rooms with two single beds, each equipped with clean bed sheets, soft pillows, and blankets. If you need extra blankets, the hotel staff is usually accommodating.
The cost of accommodation is low if you eat dinner and breakfast at your guesthouse. It’s important to note that food is a primary source of income for locals along the Poon Hill trail. Choosing not to eat at your guesthouse may result in paying two or three times more for your room.
Due to the limited option for accommodation, especially during peak season, it is advisable to make reservations in advance. This ensures a more secure and hassle-free experience.
Trekking Permits for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek requires following two different trekking permits:
TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
ACAP permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project).
Alongside these permits, specific local permits are also necessary. For detailed information and assistance, please feel free to reach out to us.
Toilet and Shower Facilities during trek
The tea houses along the Poon hill trekking route vary in bathroom facilities. While a few have attached bathrooms but most of them have shared bathrooms and toilets.
Some provide western-style flush toilets but most of them don’t. It’s important to note that most tea houses do not supply toilet paper; locals typically use water for cleaning, so burning your own toilet paper is recommended.
Moreover, hot showers are available in many teahouses, although they may charge you extra cost. To save costs, consider carrying wet body wipes as an alternative to taking a shower.
Food and Drinks during Poon Hill Trekking Tour
Along the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, both Nepali and western food is widely available.
Dal Bhat is a traditional and staple Nepali meal that consists of stemmed rice served with lentil soups, vegetables, pickles, and salad. It is a nutritious and filling meal that provides energy for trekking.
Moreover, lunch and dinner options include pasta, momo, fried rice, sandwiches, spaghetti, and noodle soup. Normally, you’ll get these food options for lunch and dinner.
For breakfast, you’ll get typically Himalayan choices like Gurung bread, boiled egg, and aloo Chana Tarkari (vegetables of potatoes and chickpeas) served with hot tea or coffee.
In terms of beverages, tea, coffee, soft drinks and sometimes even local alcoholic beverages are also available along the Poon Hill trekking route.
Drinking Water Options on the route
Along the Poon Hill trek route, there are three drinking water options: bottled water, using water purification tablets or a portable water filter, and boiled water.
Boiled water is the recommended choice, often provided for free in most teahouses, though some may charge a minimal cost. While drinking water directly from a natural source is possible, it’s crucial to use water purification tablets to make it safe.
So, if you are planning not to waste even a single penny on water then bring a reusable bottle with built-in water filters. So you can use chlorine tablets to purify your drinking water.
While single-use plastic water bottles are readily available along the trail, it is not recommended due to environmental concerns. Additionally, as you ascend to higher altitudes, the cost of a one-liter bottle can range from $3 to $5.
Electricity and Charging Facilities
Electricity is accessible along the entire Poon Hill hiking route, with some locations powered by hydroelectricity and others by solar energy.
Charging your electronic device is generally possible, but some teahouses may charge a fee for using these facilities. Usually there are electrical outlets in the common dining areas or sometimes in your room as well.
It’s important to note that solar-powered electricity can be affected by poor weather conditions. In mountainous regions, if there is an absence of sun for several days, there’s a high chance of experiencing power shortages.
Tea houses might charge you more for charging electronic devices due to limited power supply. So, it’s advisable to carry a solar power bank or solar charger for your convenience.
Communication (Internet and Phone Connectivity)
In city areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara, guesthouses and restaurants typically offer free Wi-Fi.
Upon arrival in Nepal, you can easily obtain a local SIM card with a valid passport and a photograph. However for the internet, you need to buy data or voice packages as per your need.
During Poon hill trek, almost every guest house on the route has Wi-Fi. Most of the time they don’t charge you extra for this service, unlike on some other trekking routes. Additionally, mobile network coverage is available along the trekking route, except in specific areas.
Travel Insurance for Poon Hill Tour
While travel insurance is mandatory for trekking in Nepal, it may not be necessary for lower elevation treks like Poon Hill. However, opting insurance ensures peace of mind.
If choosing insurance, ensure coverage for medical emergencies, flight cancellations, lost baggage, and rare instances like helicopter evacuations during severe health conditions, although such situations are uncommon on the Poon Hill trek.
Currency Exchange
For better rates, it’s advisable to exchange your currency in Kathmandu. There are various legitimate counters which accept all major currencies including Pounds, dollars, and the Euro.
Along the trekking route, only Nepalese currency is valid, making it crucial to exchange here in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Keep in mind that after Pokahra, ATMs become scarce, so exchanging in Kathmandu is recommended. Additionally, note that card payments are not possible in the Poon Hill section.
Extra Expenses
In addition to the trekking package cost, there are several extra expenses to consider. Before the trek, budget for visa fees, flight costs, and required travel insurance.
During the trek, there will be an additional cost for hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging facilities at teahouses. Snacks and hot beverages will also incur some expenses.
Post-trek, allocate a budget for tipping the guide and porter, and consider purchasing souvenirs to bring back home.
Extra Information
Luggage
When trekking with a porter, a daypack for trail essentials such as extra layers, snacks and water is sufficient. The porter will handle all trekking gear in a duffle bag.Typically, one porter is assigned for every two trekkers, carrying 10 to 12 kgs per trekker. It’s crucial to pack your luggage wisely and avoid overpacking, even if you don’t plan to carry your belongings.
Further, you can pack smart by leaving unnecessary items at your hotel. You don’t have to carry everything to the hiking trail.
Risks and Responds
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, being short and at a lower altitude in Nepal, entails lower risks compared to other popular routes.
With the highest point exceeding 3,000 meters, there is a minimal risk of altitude sickness.
While climbing Poon Hill, you may experience a mild headache. To prevent this, ascend slowly, stay hydrated by sipping water, and wear warm gears as morning temperatures can drop significantly.
