How to Reach Ghorepani from Pokhara: Complete Travel Guide for Trekkers

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal. Starting from the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, this trek leads you through charming villages, rhododendron forests, and scenic Himalayan viewpoints before reaching the famous village of Ghorepani. Many travelers planning this trek often ask: How do you reach Ghorepani from Pokhara?

The journey involves a short drive from Pokhara to the trailhead and then a scenic hike through the Annapurna region. In this guide, we’ll explain the routes, transportation options, trekking trail, and practical tips to reach Ghorepani easily.

Where is Ghorepani?

Ghorepani is a mountain village located in the Annapurna region of Nepal at an altitude of 2,874 meters. It lies along the famous Ghorepani–Ghandruk trekking route and is the main stop before hiking to the iconic Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210 meters) for sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. 

Because of its relatively short duration and moderate difficulty, this trek is perfect for beginners, families, and travelers with limited time.

Step-by-Step Route: Pokhara to Ghorepani

1. Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul

The journey begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the traditional starting point of the Ghorepani trek.

• Distance: about 42 km

• Travel time: 1.5 hours by jeep or private vehicle

From Nayapul, the trekking trail officially begins. Trekkers walk along the Modi Khola valley, crossing suspension bridges and passing small villages and terraced farms. 

Many trekking agencies arrange transportation directly from hotels in Pokhara to the starting point.

If you are trekking with a guide or agency, transportation is usually included in the package.

2. Trek from Nayapul to Ulleri

After reaching Nayapul, the trail gradually climbs through villages such as:

• Birethanti

• Tikhedhunga

• Ulleri

The climb to Ulleri is famous for its stone staircase of more than 3,000 steps, which can be challenging but rewarding. Ulleri sits at around 2,050 meters altitude and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and traditional Magar villages.  Most trekkers spend their first night here before continuing toward Ghorepani.

3. Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani

The next day’s trek is one of the most scenic sections of the journey.

The trail passes through:

• Dense rhododendron forests

• Small settlements like Banthanti and Nangethanti

• Moss-covered Himalayan forests

After several hours of gradual ascent, trekkers reach Ghorepani village, which is surrounded by panoramic mountain scenery.  The village is known for its cozy teahouses, welcoming local culture, and easy access to Poon Hill.

Alternative Route: Jeep to Ulleri or Banthanti

In recent years, road access in the Annapurna region has improved. Travelers can now drive further up the trail, reducing trekking time.

Alternative route options include:

• Pokhara → Ulleri (by jeep)

• Pokhara → Banthanti (by jeep)

From these points, trekkers only need to walk 3–5 hours to reach Ghorepani.

This option is ideal for travelers who:

• Have limited trekking time

• Prefer shorter hikes

• Want to avoid the Ulleri stone steps

However, many trekkers still prefer the traditional trekking route for a more authentic experience.

Typical Trek Duration from Pokhara to Ghorepani