Places Nepal
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Nepal
6 Days
Easy
Wake Up to the Himalayas – A Short Trek with Timeless Sunrise Views
From US$ 800
US$ 550
No of people Price per person
1 - 1 $800
2 - 5 $550
6 - 10 $450
11 - 15 $350
Book Now

What's included?

Accomodations

3N teahouse, 2N Pokhara (Majheri or similar) with twin rooms, attached bath, hot shower & WiFi.

Foods

Standard meals during the trek (Breakfast x5, Lunch x3, Dinner x4)

Licensed guide

Experienced English-speaking trek guide throughout the trek

Porter

Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) to carry luggage

Transportations

All ground transfers as per the Itinerary

All Permits

All necessary trek permits: ACAP, TIMS

What is it really like?

Photos from the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Witness a 360-degree panoramic sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Walk through rhododendron forests, which bloom in vibrant red and pink during spring.

A perfect trek for beginners or those short on time, with a moderate trail and well-established teahouses.

Key Information

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,265 ft) to Pokhara (830m / 2,723 ft). The route follows the Prithvi Highway, winding through lush hills, terraced fields, and river valleys along the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers. Upon reaching Pokhara, you can relax by Phewa Lake, explore Lakeside, or enjoy the Annapurna range views.

ⓘ We provide free airport transfers in Kathmandu for both your arrival and departure, no matter what time your flights are. This includes if you're staying extra nights before or after your trip. Just make sure to send us your flight details and hotel information beforehand.

Max. altitude

1,350m / 4,429 ft.

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Meals

Welcome Dinner

After breakfast, a 3-4 hour drive takes you to Ghandruk (1,940m / 6,364 ft), a traditional Gurung village known for its stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak). From Ghandruk, the trek begins through dense rhododendron and oak forests, gradually ascending toward Tadapani (2,700m / 8,858 ft). Overnight stay in a teahouse.

Max. altitude

2,700m / 8,858 ft.

Accommodation

Himalayan Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Leaving Tadapani, the trail leads through forested ridges and hidden valleys, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail includes moderate ascents and descents, passing local villages and small streams before reaching Ghorepani (2,850m / 9,350 ft), a lively mountain settlement. Overnight in a teahouse.

Max. altitude

2,850m / 9,350 ft.

Accommodation

Tourist Standered

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

An early morning hike (about 1 hour uphill) takes you to Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,531 ft), where you’ll witness one of Nepal’s most breathtaking sunrises over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. After enjoying panoramic views, you descend to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing the steep descent through rhododendron forests to Ulleri (1,570m / 5,150 ft). Overnight stay in a teahouse.

Max. altitude

3,210m / 10,531 ft.

Accommodation

Mountain Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After a short morning trek to the nearest road access point, a private vehicle will drive you back to Pokhara. The route offers stunning countryside views, passing through hill settlements and terraced farms. Once in Pokhara, you can spend your day exploring Phewa Lake, Devi’s Falls, or relaxing in Lakeside cafés.

Max. altitude

1,570m / 5,151 ft.

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

A scenic drive through rolling hills, rural villages, and river valleys will take you back to Kathmandu.

Max. altitude

1,350m / 4,429 ft.

Meals

Breakfast

⇀ Starts

Your Hotel in Kathmandu

Your guide will pick you up at 6:15 am.

↼ Ends

Your hotel in Kathmandu

Your guide will drop you off at your hotel

Pre-Trek Arrival and Briefing

We recommend that all trekkers arrive in Kathmandu at least one day before the trek start date (Day 1). This ensures you have enough time to rest, attend our pre-trek briefing, and meet your trek guide and support team before the adventure begins.

To make your arrival smooth and hassle-free, Places Nepal Treks and Expedition provides complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off services. Our team will be waiting to welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Please remember to share your international flight details with us in advance so we can arrange timely airport transfers.

Transportations During the Trek

We’ve carefully planned your travel to and from the trekking region for comfort and ease:

  • Kathmandu to Pokhara: Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive on a tourist bus with your guide.

  • Pokhara to Ghandruk (Trek Start Point): A private jeep takes you into the hills and directly to the trailhead.

  • Ulleri (Trek End Point) to Pokhara: After your trek, another private jeep brings you back to Pokhara.

  • Pokhara to Kathmandu: Wind down with a relaxing return journey by tourist bus.

Want More Comfort or Flexibility?

If you’d prefer to skip long drives or enjoy more privacy, we offer optional upgrades, including private vehicles or domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Check out our “Optional Add-ons” section for more details.


Elevation Chart
Day 2-4
Mountain Guest House
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
3- Star Hotel in Pokhara
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Departure Day
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Accommodation in Pokhara

In Pokhara, trekkers will stay at Majheri Resort or a similar standard hotel. The rooms are twin-shared, featuring an attached bathroom, hot shower, and free Wi-Fi for a comfortable stay. The hotel provides a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding before and after the trek.

Accommodation on the Trek

Along the trekking route, accommodation will be in traditional teahouses, offering basic yet comfortable lodging.

  • Ghorepani & Ulleri: Twin-sharing rooms with an attached bathroom, providing added comfort in these popular stops.
  • Tadapani: Rooms with a shared bathroom, as facilities are more limited in this remote area.

Teahouses provide warm blankets, a cozy dining area, and traditional Nepali meals, creating a welcoming mountain experience. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at an additional cost.

Food on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

During the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, meals are not included in the package. However, the journey includes scheduled stops at highway restaurants, where trekkers can purchase breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

Food Options Along the Route

  • Breakfast: Tea/coffee, chapati, omelet, toast, or local snacks
  • Lunch: Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables), fried rice, noodles, or momo (dumplings)
  • Snacks: Biscuits, fruits, dry snacks, and bottled beverages

The restaurants along the highway offer simple but fresh meals, and travelers can choose based on personal preference. It is recommended to carry light snacks and water for the journey.

Meals in Pokhara

In Pokhara, meals are not included in the trek package, allowing trekkers the freedom to explore a variety of restaurants and cafés around Lakeside. Options range from traditional Nepali dal bhat, international cuisines, fresh bakeries, and coffee shops. The hotel provides breakfast, but lunch and dinner can be enjoyed at local or international restaurants based on personal preference.

Meals on the Trek

During the trek, teahouses provide freshly prepared home-cooked meals, offering a mix of local and international dishes.

Breakfast

  • Toast with jam, honey, or butter
  • Tibetan bread or chapati
  • Pancakes or porridge
  • Eggs (boiled, scrambled, or omelet)
  • Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate

Lunch & Dinner

  • Dal Bhat (Rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles) – A high-energy meal popular among trekkers
  • Noodles, pasta, or spaghetti
  • Momos (Nepali dumplings)
  • Fried rice or chow mein
  • Vegetable soups
  • Pizza (available in some places)

Snacks & Drinks

  • Seasonal fruits
  • Popcorn or biscuits
  • Energy bars
  • Ginger tea, lemon tea, or black tea

Food is simple but nutritious, designed to provide the necessary energy for trekking. Vegetarian options are widely available, and trekkers are encouraged to avoid meat at higher altitudes due to storage limitations. Boiled or purified water is available for drinking, and carrying a reusable bottle with water purification tablets is recommended.

Please inform your guide about any specific requirements or restrictions to ensure your dietary needs are met. While our guides will assist you with ordering meals, we also recommend bringing some extra snacks or supplemental food along, just in case.

This trek is rated Easy

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an easy to moderate trek, ideal for beginners. The trail involves gradual ascents, stone steps, and 4-7 hours of walking per day. With a maximum altitude of 3,210m (10,531 ft), the risk of altitude sickness is low. No prior trekking experience is required.

Who Can Trek?

This trek is suitable for:

  • Beginners & First-Time Trekkers
  • Families with Children (8+ years)
  • Elderly Trekkers (Up to 65 years, or older with medical clearance)
  • Solo & Group Trekkers

Basic fitness is needed, and light training like walking or stair climbing is recommended.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek experiences four seasons, each offering a different trekking experience. Temperatures vary with altitude, ranging from mild to cold depending on the time of year.

  • Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather with clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and mild temperatures (10–20°C in the daytime).
  • Summer/Monsoon (June–August): Hot and humid with heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and leech-prone (18–25°C).
  • Autumn (September–November): Best season with stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures (10–20°C).
  • Winter (December–February): Cold but manageable, with snow at higher altitudes and temperatures dropping to -5°C at night.

Best Time to Trek

The best times for the trek are March, April, May, September, October, and November due to stable weather, clear views, and comfortable temperatures. Winter trekking is possible but requires extra preparation for cold conditions, while monsoon trekking is not recommended due to heavy rains and poor visibility.

Accommodation

  • 3 nights in mountain teahouses during the trek
  • 2 nights in Pokhara (Majheri Resort or similar) with twin-sharing rooms, attached bathroom, hot shower, and free WiFi

Foods

  • Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Guides & Porters

  • Experienced trekking guide for 6 days
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) to carry luggage

Permits

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card

Transportation

  • Private car from Pokhara to Ghandruk (start of the trek) and Ulleri to Pokhara (end of the trek)
  • Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu in a deluxe tourist bus
  • Hotels in Kathmandu before or after the trek
  • Meals in Pokhara (except breakfast)
  • International flight tickets to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, poles, etc.)
  • Personal travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking)

Additional Expenses:

  • Plan for these extra costs:
    • Showers: $2-$5
    • Wi-Fi: $2-$5
    • Device Charging: $2-$5

We suggest carrying a US$200 emergency fund, as ATMs are unavailable on the trek. 

  • Gratuities (Tips):

Tipping guides and porters is a common practice in Nepal and a significant gesture of appreciation. Tips can be given to your lead guide at the end of the trip for distribution among the team. Guides typically receive a larger share due to their qualifications. 

However, tipping is entirely at your discretion. Individual tips for team members who provided exceptional service are welcome and can be given directly and discreetly.

  • Personal Spending:

Based on your individual spending habits, budget for personal expenses like extra food and drinks, souvenirs, optional activities, and laundry.

Transportations
Flight Transfer to/from Pokhara
US$ 240 per person
Private Car to/from Pokhara
US$ 400 per vehicle

At Places Nepal, we truly believe that to fully experience the magic of trekking in the Himalayas, you need to be physically prepared. Here’s how to get trek-ready:

  • Cardio Training: Build your stamina with regular hiking, running, or cycling.

  • Leg Strength: Strengthen your legs with squats, lunges, and step-ups for those mountain ascents.

  • Backpack Practice: Train with a loaded backpack to mimic real trail conditions.

  • Flexibility & Recovery: Incorporate stretching or yoga to stay limber and injury-free.

  • Stay Consistent: Progress steadily—consistency is key.

Places Nepal believes fitness is the first step to falling in love with the Himalayas. 🌄

General

  • Insulated down jacket (Available for rent: USD 30)
  • Daypack (35- 45L) with a rain cover
  • Head & Accessories
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm hat/beanie
  • Scarf or neck gaiter
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)

Upper Body

  • Moisture-wicking base layers (light for warm months, heavy for cold months)
  • Short & long-sleeve shirts (2 each)
  • Waterproof & windproof shell jacket
  • Fleece jacket for warmth

Lower Body

  • Base layer (thermal for colder months)
  • Hiking pants (2 pairs)
  • Comfortable lounge pants for teahouses
  • Waterproof shell pants
  • Hiking shorts

Hands

  • Liner gloves (wool or technical fabric)
  • Insulated gloves (for colder months)

Feet

  • Hiking socks (wool or technical fabric)
  • Liner socks (optional)
  • Trekking boots (waterproof recommended)
  • Casual shoes for teahouses
  • Microspikes/Ice cleats (recommended for November–March to prevent slipping)

Undergarments & Sleepwear

  • Quick-dry underwear
  • Sports bras (for women)
  • Comfortable sleepwear

First Aid & Medications

(Guides carry basic first aid, but a personal kit is recommended.)

  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Personal medications

Other Essentials

  •  Passport & extra passport-sized photos
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets/UV purifier
  • Hydration bladder
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Pillowcase
  • Toilet paper (2 rolls)
  • High-protein snacks (nuts, protein bars)
  • Waterproof bags for important document
  • Airline ticket copy (Leave one at the Kathmandu office for emergencies)

Optional Items

  • Power bank or extra batteries
  • Camera & phone
  • Trekking poles
  • Whistle
  • Thermos for hot drinks
  • Book/cards for entertainment
  • Pee bottle/funnel (for women)

Contact us at least one month before your trip if you have any questions about this list. Please remove all unnecessary packaging before your trip and ensure all plastic waste is taken off the mountain.

Equipment Rental:

Climbing boots, sleeping bags, and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu or Khare. However, we recommend bringing your own for better fit and quality.

Contact us if you need rental assistance, and we'll provide information on costs and arrangements.

Shopping in Kathmandu:

Many trekking supplies can be bought in Thamel, Kathmandu, at reasonable prices if needed.

Kathmandu offers numerous outdoor gear shops. Some sell items at similar prices to home, while others offer cheaper alternatives that may not be of the same quality. 

I joined the Poon Hill trek

I joined the Poon Hill trek, and it was an amazing experience. First, I want to thank the team Places Nepal Trek and Expedition for their great support. During the trek, I saw beautiful views, especially the sunrise from Poon Hill, which was breathtaking. I also met local villagers and learned about their culture. Overall, this trek was a fun challenge and a wonderful cultural experience. If any of my friends want to go trekking in Nepal or learn about the local culture, I will definitely recommend you! I hope to explore more

S
Samantha Ho
Hong Kong

Wonderful trek to Nepal

Sono appena tornata dal mio meraviglioso viaggio in Nepal, terra ricchissima di sorprese. La mia guida Nam è una persona speciale e di gran cuore, preparata, paziente e attenta ad ogni esigenza e ottimo fotografo. Parla perfettamente inglese e spagnolo e non lascia niente al caso. Organizzazione perfetta. Ultra consigliato! Translation: I have just returned from my wonderful trip to Nepal, a land full of surprises. My guide Nam is a special and big-hearted person, prepared, patient and attentive to every need and an excellent photographer. He speaks perfect English and Spanish and leaves nothing to chance. Perfect organization. Ultra recommended!

G
Giada Saporiti
Spain

An outstanding trek team.

Ha sido una experiencia maravillosa. Sin PlacesNepal que nos ha enseñado las costumbres locales y cuidado en todo momento y sin Calima Trek, no hubiera sido posible. Un equipo humano de sobresaliente. Translation: It has been a wonderful experience. Without PlacesNepal that has taught us the local customs and taken care of us at all times and without Calima Trek, it would not have been possible. An outstanding team.

A
Arantxa Rodríguez Quintana
Spain

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular short trekking adventures, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and lush Himalayan landscapes—all within just six days. Nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region, this trek is ideal for beginners, families, and trekkers short on time but eager to experience the magic of the Himalayas.


At the heart of the journey is the legendary Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210 meters), from where you can witness an unforgettable sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. As the early morning light hits the snowcapped peaks, a golden glow spreads across the sky—revealing a panoramic canvas of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and more. It’s a view that stays with you long after the trek is over.


The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek begins in the charming village of Ghandruk, inhabited by the Gurung people, and meanders through forests of rhododendron and oak, picturesque stone steps, and peaceful mountain settlements like Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Ulleri. This short yet immersive trek offers a close-up look at life in the mid-Himalayan hills and delivers an outstanding variety of scenery—from terraced rice fields to alpine ridges—within a compact itinerary.

Why Choose the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek?

  • Poon Hill is widely considered one of the best viewpoints in Nepal, with a 360-degree panoramic display of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs at sunrise.

  • Entire trek fits into a 6-day schedule without compromising on Himalayan beauty or cultural depth.

  • With a maximum elevation of just over 3,200 meters, this trek avoids the risk of high-altitude sickness while still offering high-mountain experiences.

  • During spring (March–April), the trail is ablaze with blooming rhododendron forests, making the journey even more spectacular.

  • Meet and interact with the Gurung and Magar communities, known for their warm hospitality, traditional dress, and deep-rooted mountain culture.

  • Stay in cozy, locally-run lodges offering hot meals, warm beds, and friendly faces at the end of each day’s walk.

  • This trek is a favorite among first-time trekkers, families with kids, and older adventurers looking for an accessible Himalayan experience.

Permits Required for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

To ensure a safe and regulated trekking experience in the Annapurna region, the following permits are required:

  1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – This supports environmental conservation and community development within the Annapurna region.

  2. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – A mandatory document that ensures your trek is recorded for safety and rescue operations if needed.

At Places Nepal, we take care of all permit arrangements, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your trek.

Route Description & Altitude Highlights

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive to Pokhara, a vibrant lakeside city at 830 meters known for its calm atmosphere and spectacular views of the Annapurna range. After an overnight stay, you'll travel by jeep to Ghandruk (1,940m), a beautiful Gurung village nestled on a hillside with incredible views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.

From Ghandruk, the trail gently ascends through rhododendron and oak forests to Tadapani (2,700m), where trekkers enjoy stunning ridge views and peaceful surroundings. As you progress to Ghorepani (2,850m), the trail winds through thick woodlands, with the sounds of birds and distant rivers filling the air. Ghorepani was once a rest stop for ancient mule caravans and is now a favorite resting place for trekkers.


The highlight of the trek comes early the next morning with a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m). As the sky brightens, you’ll witness one of the most iconic sunrises in the Himalayas—golden rays touching the snowy peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Machapuchare. It’s a visual spectacle that feels both spiritual and surreal.

After soaking in the view, you’ll descend through rhododendron forests and stone steps to Ulleri (1,570m), a picturesque village surrounded by terraced farmland. From here, a comfortable jeep ride returns you to Pokhara, where you can unwind by the lake or explore local markets before driving back to Kathmandu.

A Perfect Short Trek with Big Rewards

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is proof that you don’t need to venture far or climb high to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas. It’s a compact trek with big payoffs: epic views, cultural richness, and peaceful trails, all within a few days’ reach from Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with children, this trek promises a memorable Himalayan experience — guided with care by the experienced team at Places Nepal.

Sunday 8th June 2025
To Friday 13th June 2025
Guaranteed to run
Sunday 24th August 2025
To Friday 29th August 2025
Guaranteed to run
Sunday 7th September 2025
To Friday 12th September 2025
Guaranteed to run
Sunday 14th September 2025
To Friday 19th September 2025
Guaranteed to run

You can count on us

Uplifting Communities

Every step sparks hope. With Places Nepal, you’re a welcomed guest, sharing Yak butter tea and ancient stories. Your journey supports fair trade, local guides, and small businesses, creating lasting change.

Local Trek Guide

Every trek fuels a dream. With a local guide, you gain deep insights, shared stories, and hidden trails. Your journey supports fair wages, skills development, and a stronger community.

Guaranteed Departure Dates

Every adventure, assured. Our guaranteed departure dates mean your journey is set—no cancellations, just seamless trekking with trusted guides.

Free Cancellation

Plans change, no worries. Enjoy free cancellation for flexibility and peace of mind.

Eco-friendly Trip

Tread lightly, travel responsibly. Our eco-friendly trips minimize impact and support conservation.

Best Price Guarantee

Adventure at the best value. Our best price guarantee ensures top-quality treks at unbeatable rates.

Explore our range adventures
From thrilling treks to serene retreats—crafted for every kind of explorer. Find your perfect journey today!
View All Adventures

Ready to make a choice

Check out these other trips in Nepal.

Adventure with Experts

Our trips are led by certified expert guides, granting you access to Nepal’s hidden gems that most travelers miss.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

At Places Nepal, trekking is a celebration of nature, a journey that nourishes the body, mind, and soul. Most of our travelers join solo.

hassle-free Adventure

All Logistics taken care of. Just show up and have a blast. We handle the details, you enjoy the adventure.

Our Trek Again philosophy

Life happens. If you can't finish your trek, or if you simply love it and want to do it again, you're welcome to repeat it with us, free of charge.

Tried and Trusted

Hear what our travelers had to say about us.
Family Trek: Gillian - London
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
Kathy - Hong Kong
Luxury Pokhara Poon Hill Wellness Trek
Senior Trek - Spain
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Carmen - Spain
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Jaoa - Portugal
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Kylan - United Kingdom
Short Manaslu Circuit Trek
Monica Troilo - Italy
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Pedro - Portugal
Manaslu Circuit Trek
A Family Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Dave - London
Manaslu Circuit Trek

Adventures by Trek Category

Treks by Season

Treks by Month

Treks by Region

Treks by Duration

Treks by Experience

Planning a Trek?

Talk to our experts first.

Plan My Trip