The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect short adventure in the Himalayas, suitable for everyone, including families with kids. This trek can be completed in just 5 to 9 days and takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region. Poon Hill (3,210m) is the highlight, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Varaha Shikhar, and Lamjung Himal. The best part of this trek is undoubtedly the chance to hike up Poon Hill and witness the stunning sunrise over these snow-covered peaks.
The path to Poon Hill is well-marked and relatively easy, making it accessible to trekkers of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful villages, lush forests, and terraced fields, immersing yourself in the local culture and way of life. The teahouses along the route provide comfortable accommodations and delicious meals, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable trekking experience. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Poon Hill trek is a must-do in the Himalayas.
The Poon Hill trek is a fantastic choice for nature lovers and folks who love taking pictures. When you go up higher on the trail, the air gets cooler, and the views get even more amazing. The best part of the trek is when you reach Poon Hill, a spot where you can see the sun rising over the Himalayan mountains. It paints the sky with beautiful colors like pink, orange, and gold. It's a magical moment that you'll remember forever.
Although the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepla is considered to be a relatively easy trek, it is important to have a reasonable level of fitness. So, if fit, it is suitable for children and older family members.
Our Poon Hill trekking itinerary spans 9 days and is considered a "moderate" trek, with the highest elevation reaching 3,210 meters, so there is no risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS). In addition to the Poon Hill Trek, we offer various other trekking options in the Annapurna Region, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the Gorepani Poon Hill Trek, the Khopra Ridge Trek, the Mardi Himal Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, etc.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek costs $630 per person, which might seem like a lot, but it covers everything you need for a great trip. This includes permits, experienced guides, comfy places to stay in teahouses along the trail, delicious meals, and convenient transportation to and from the starting point of the trek.
This price might seem higher, but it ensures that you have a worry-free and enjoyable trek through the stunning Himalayan landscapes. You can focus on the adventure and beauty around you without stressing about the details.
What's more, part of this cost goes to helping the local communities. It provides jobs to locals who work as guides, porters, and in teahouses, helping boost the local economy. Some of the money also supports improvements in the communities' infrastructure, which benefits them in the long run.
In a nutshell, the $630 price means you get a well-organized and memorable trek, and it also helps the local communities in the Ghorepani Poon Hill area.
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| Day | Day Acitivity |
|---|---|
| Day 01: | Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft) |
| Day 02: | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara valley (823m/2,700ft) |
| Day 03: | Trek to Tikhedhunga ((1,480m/4736ft) |
| Day 04: | Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft) |
| Day 05: | Poon hill hike and trek to Tadapani (2540m/8332ft) |
| Day 06: | Trek to Ghandruk (1,990m/6,529ft), |
| Day 07: | Ghandruk to Pokhara (820m/2,700ft) |
| Day 08: | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu {1,300m/4,264 ft} |
| Day 09: | Departure from Kathmandu |
Welcome to the Himalayan nation of Nepal! When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and help you get to your hotel in Kathmandu. After you've had a chance to freshen up, in the evening, we'll take you to a traditional Nepalese restaurant in the center of Kathmandu for a welcome dinner. During this dinner, we will provide you with a trip briefing. Afterward, you'll spend the night at the hotel.
We'll start our trip to Pokhara early in the morning using a tourist bus. The bus ride is a scenic one and takes about 8 hours. During the journey, you'll get to enjoy beautiful views of the countryside, including lovely hills. We'll make two stops along the way for breakfast and lunch. While most of the main road is paved, some parts are still being fixed, so they might not be perfect. If you want a faster option, you can also take a 25-minute flight to Pokhara.
After breakfast, we'll take a 2-hour drive to Birethati, which is where the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins. This trek is a beautiful journey through villages, green rice fields, rivers, and hills. On the way, we'll pass by local villages like Birethati, Sonari, Hill, Tikhedhunga, and Ulleri. The climb from Birethati to Ulleri is quite steep, about 900 meters uphill. Especially after Tikhedhunga village, the path gets steeper as we head to Ulleri. Ulleri is a big village where the Magar people live, and it's one of the most stunning places on our trek with amazing views. We'll spend the night in a lovely local guesthouse in Ulleri.
Our morning kicks off with a challenging uphill trek on stone steps, lasting for about an hour or even longer, until we reach the top of Ulleri village. Ulleri is a moderately sized village with houses that follow the traditional Nepalese style, featuring slanted roofs. From here, our walk continues with a gradual ascent through a captivating, cool forest filled with rhododendron and pine trees. This path leads us to Ghorepani village, situated on a ridge and surrounded by the enchanting beauty of rhododendron trees. Ghorepani is mainly inhabited by Poon people of the Magar tribe and is renowned for the Poon Hill viewpoint, which is just an hour's climb away.
Early in the morning, we'll climb up to the top of Poon Hill. From there, you'll see an amazing sunrise lighting up the Himalayan peaks. You'll get to see some of the tallest mountains in the world, like Dhaulagiri (the 7th highest) and Annapurna (the 10th highest). There are other impressive peaks too, like Manaslu (the 8th highest) and the famous Machhapuchare, which looks like a fish tail. After enjoying this incredible sight, we'll head back down to Ghorepani and keep trekking. The path will go up and down through a cool forest, and eventually, we'll reach Tadapani, where we'll spend the night.
Today is a short and enjoyable day of walking. We'll follow a path through the forest, mainly downhill, with occasional glimpses of the mountains. This route leads us along a gradual path for most of the way, and we'll eventually reach the village of Ghandrung, where we'll spend the night. Ghandrung is a bustling Gurung village, a modern settlement in Nepal. You can explore the area around the village and simply unwind at the hotel.
Today is our last day of walking, and it's a pleasant journey through lovely landscapes and small villages. We will head down to Syalui bazaar, which is by the Modi River. The walk is enjoyable, as most of it is by the river until we get to Birethanthi. After that, it's an easy walk to Nayapul. Our adventure ends here, and we'll drive back to Pokhara for the night.
Early morning drive by tourist bus to Pokhara through the beautiful Nepalese countryside to reach the Kathmandu. On arrival at Kathmandu guide will transfer to the hotel and rest of the time relax or explore the surrounding areas and overnight at hotel.
Today is a free day, allowing you some time for last-minute shopping to pick up souvenirs or gifts for your family, friends, or relatives. You can also use this time to begin any additional trips or activities you may have booked with us. If you are departing, we will arrange for your transfer to the International Airport for your onward flight to your destination.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a well-loved trekking route located in Nepal's Annapurna region. It's renowned for its awe-inspiring mountain vistas, verdant forests, and cultural encounters.
The trek generally spans between 4 to 7 days. The exact duration depends on your starting point and the pace at which you prefer to trek.
The difficulty level of this trek is regarded as moderate. While it includes both uphill and downhill sections, it is manageable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
The best seasons for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) periods, typically occurring from March to May and September to November.
To undertake this trek, you'll need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card. You can acquire these permits in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The highest point on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is Poon Hill itself, standing at an elevation of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet).
Essential items to pack include warm clothing, comfortable trekking boots, a well-equipped backpack, a suitable sleeping bag, rain gear, and other necessary supplies. It's advisable to pack efficiently and avoid carrying excess weight.
Cell phone reception is available in some villages, and a few teahouses offer Wi-Fi, although the connection can be slow and unreliable.
ATMs can be found in some of the larger towns along the trek, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash with you, as ATM access may be limited.
Yes, it's crucial to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation in case of unexpected situations.
It's advisable to consult a travel doctor for vaccinations and medications, especially for altitude sickness prevention. Additionally, bring a basic first-aid kit for any minor medical needs during the trek.
When planning a trekking adventure, having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. The right equipment will help you navigate the challenging terrains, keep you comfortable in varying weather conditions, and ensure your safety in the wilderness. We, holiday planner trek have compiled a list of essential trekking gear that you should consider before setting off on your trekking expedition.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular and beautiful treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It's famous for its stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill and the colorful rhododendron forests. This trek is great for all levels of hikers. To make sure your trip is a success and memorable, it's crucial to pick the right time to go. The team at Holiday Planner Trek can help you choose the best season and tell you what's special about each one.
Spring (March to May): Spring is considered the best time for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek due to its favorable weather and spectacular natural beauty. During this season, the rhododendron forests come alive with vibrant colors, creating a picturesque landscape. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for trekking. The clear skies offer excellent views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Spring is also the peak season for trekking, so expect more fellow trekkers on the trail.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another ideal time for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The weather remains stable, with clear skies and dry conditions, providing unobstructed views of the mountain vistas. The lush greenery of the region contrasts beautifully with the blue skies and snow-capped peaks, making it a photographer's paradise. Autumn is the second peak season for trekking, so be prepared for higher trekker traffic. Booking accommodations and permits in advance is recommended.
Winter (December to February): Though winter brings colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, it can still be a great time for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The views after fresh snowfall are enchanting, and the trails are relatively less crowded. However, trekkers should be prepared for colder nights and should dress in layers to stay warm. The clear winter skies offer excellent views during sunny days, but trekking gear suitable for sub-zero temperatures is necessary.
Monsoon (June to August): The monsoon season is generally not recommended for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides. The trekking routes can get muddy and challenging, making the overall experience less enjoyable. Visibility may also be limited due to clouds and mist, hindering the panoramic views of the mountains. If you are planning to trek during the monsoon, it is essential to be well-prepared with proper rain gear and check the weather conditions in advance.
| Season | Best Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March to May | Vibrant rhododendron forests, mild temperatures, clear mountain views |
| Autumn | September to November | Stable weather, clear skies, lush greenery, unobstructed views |
| Winter | December to February | Enchanting views after snowfall, fewer trekkers, clear skies |
| Monsoon | June to August | Heavy rainfall, slippery trails, limited visibility |
Choosing the best time to undertake the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is essential for a successful and enjoyable experience. Spring and autumn are the prime seasons, offering favorable weather and breathtaking views. Winter can be a good option for those seeking a quieter trek and unique snowy landscapes. However, trekkers should avoid the monsoon season due to challenging trail conditions and limited visibility. Whatever season you choose, Holiday Planner Trek ensures that your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek will be a memorable journey, filled with incredible mountain vistas and unforgettable moments in the heart of the Annapurna region.
Heike Boon
26th Jul, 2022
We had a wonderful and one of the most memorable experiences doing the trek. Undoubtedly the landscape was fantastic but equally fantastic were our guide and porter - Eklal and Santosh. Some people try to attempt the trek on their own, but having a guide like Eklal makes world of difference. Not only does he make all the arrangements as best could be made in these parts of the world, but he is a terrific companion to have on the trek. He is extremely friendly and easy-going but being so he never misses his professionalism and his responsibility. During the trek, he adjusted to our likings and pace. It is safe to say that I wouldn’t have personally made it to the end without his support. I highly recommend this company Holi Planner Trek if you are going to do any trekking in Nepal go with this company.
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