⇀ Starts:

Your Hotel in Pokhara (around 6:00 AM)

↼ Ends:

Your Hotel in Pokhara (around 2:00 PM)

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins and ends in Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region. If you are starting your journey from Kathmandu, you have two main travel options to reach Pokhara:

• By Air: Take a short and scenic 25-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and saving time.
• By Road: Choose a tourist bus (6–8 hours) or a private vehicle for a more flexible and budget-friendly option.

Need help planning your trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara? Just let us know—we can assist you in selecting the best travel option based on your preferences, whether you're traveling on a budget, looking for comfort, or prefer a luxurious journey.

Starting the Trek

On Day 1, our team will pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara around 6:00–7:00 AM. You'll then drive in a private vehicle to the trek’s starting point—usually Nayapul or Hile—with your guide. From there, your adventure into the heart of the Annapurna foothills begins.

Ending the Trek

After completing the trek—typically ending in Ghandruk or returning to Nayapul—you’ll be picked up and driven back to your hotel in Pokhara in a private vehicle. Expect to arrive by early to mid-afternoon, giving you time to relax by Phewa Lake or explore the vibrant Lakeside area.

Accommodation in Short Ghorepani poon Hill Trek

During the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, you’ll stay in locally-run teahouses along the trail. These are basic but clean and comfortable lodges offering twin-sharing or private rooms, usually with shared bathrooms.

Rooms come with a simple bed, mattress, blanket, and pillow. In colder months, we recommend bringing a sleeping bag for extra warmth. While the facilities are modest, the hospitality is warm, and the experience is authentic.

We handpick our teahouse partners to ensure safe, clean, and friendly service throughout the trek.

Food in Short Ghorepani poon Hill Trek

All breakfasts are included in your trekking package and are freshly prepared by the teahouses each morning. Meals typically include options like eggs, bread, porridge, pancakes, or Tibetan bread with tea or coffee.

Lunch and dinner are not included in the package. This gives you the flexibility to choose your own meals based on your preferences and hunger level. Most teahouses offer a wide range of choices such as dal bhat (rice with lentils and vegetables), noodles, fried rice, momos, pasta, soups, and more.

Meal prices usually range between USD $4 to $8, depending on the altitude and location. Clean drinking water, tea, and coffee are available at additional cost.

If you’re unsure what to eat, feel free to ask your guide for recommendations—they know the best and most hygienic options at each stop.

This trek is rated Easy.

The Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara is rated easy to moderate, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of trekkers. With well-marked trails, comfortable walking hours (typically 4 to 6 per day), and manageable elevation gain, it is ideal for families with children, seniors, and first-time trekkers.

The highest point on the trek, Poon Hill (3,210 meters), offers spectacular sunrise views without the risks associated with high-altitude trekking. While some uphill climbs—particularly stone stair sections—can be mildly challenging, they are short and broken up with plenty of rest opportunities and scenic viewpoints.

No prior trekking experience is necessary, and anyone with a basic level of fitness and a willingness to walk can comfortably enjoy this rewarding Himalayan experience.

The Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is accessible year-round, but weather conditions vary significantly with the seasons. Here’s what you can expect during different times of the year:

Spring (March to May) – Best Season

• Weather: Clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendron forests.

• Daytime temperatures: 15–20°C (59–68°F) at lower altitudes.

• Nights/mornings: 0–10°C (32–50°F).

• Pros: Excellent visibility of the Himalayas, comfortable trekking conditions, vibrant nature.

Autumn (September to November) – Best Season

• Weather: Stable and dry with crisp air and excellent mountain views.

• Daytime temperatures: 14–20°C (57–68°F).

• Nights/mornings: 2–10°C (36–50°F).

• Pros: Post-monsoon clarity, ideal trekking weather, less humidity.

Winter (December to February) – Cold but Clear

• Weather: Cold mornings and evenings; days are sunny and clear.

• Daytime temperatures: 8–15°C (46–59°F).

• Nights/mornings: -5 to 5°C (23–41°F), especially near Ghorepani and Poon Hill.

• Pros: Fewer crowds and very clear views;

• Cons: Some teahouses may close in remote areas; trails can be icy.

Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended

• Weather: Hot, humid, and wet with frequent rain and leeches on the trail.

• Daytime temperatures: 18–25°C (64–77°F).

• Nights/mornings: 10–18°C (50–64°F).

• Cons: Slippery trails, poor visibility, possible travel delays due to landslides or flight cancellations.

Quick Tips to Trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill

The best time to trek is from March to May and September to November, when weather conditions are most favorable. It's important to dress in layers, as temperatures can drop in the mornings and evenings, even during warmer months. A light rain jacket or poncho is also recommended, particularly during the transitional months of May and September, when occasional rain is possible.

We monitor weather conditions closely and will advise accordingly to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek.

Preparing for the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek doesn’t require intense training—just consistent effort and the right focus. This trek is suitable for beginners, but a little preparation goes a long way in making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

1. Walk Regularly

Start with brisk walks for 30 to 60 minutes, four to five times a week. Gradually introduce hills or stair climbing to simulate the terrain. If you can walk 8–10 km comfortably with some elevation, you're on the right track.

2. Build Leg Strength

Simple exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups help strengthen your legs for the uphill climbs and downhill descents. Aim for short sessions three times a week.

3. Improve Balance and Core Stability

Trekking involves uneven trails and rocky paths. Strengthen your core with planks and include balance exercises like single-leg stands or basic yoga poses to enhance stability.

4. Train with a Backpack

Practice walking with a light backpack (around 5–7 kg) to get used to carrying your daypack. This also builds endurance and helps prevent fatigue during the trek.

5. Break in Your Footwear

Wear your trekking shoes during walks and short hikes before the trip. Well-worn shoes reduce the risk of blisters and improve comfort on the trail.

Two-Week Prep Plan

Weeks 1–2:

• Walk 4–5 times a week

• Include one longer walk or hike on weekends

• Do 2–3 strength and balance sessions weekly

• Practice with your backpack twice a week

By following this Places Nepal's recommended routine, you’ll feel confident and well-prepared to enjoy the beauty of Poon Hill without feeling overwhelmed.

Packing smart is key to enjoying the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek comfortably. Since the trek is relatively short and does not involve high altitudes, you won’t need heavy-duty expedition gear—but you will need the right essentials to stay warm, dry, and comfortable.

Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare:

Clothing

• Lightweight trekking shirts (quick-dry) – 2–3

• Warm base layer (thermal top & bottom) – 1 set

• Fleece or light down jacket (for chilly mornings and evenings)

• Waterproof/windproof jacket (essential if trekking in spring or autumn)

• Trekking pants – 2 pairs

• Comfortable sleepwear

• Sun hat or cap

• Woolen hat or beanie

• Lightweight gloves

• Warm socks – 3–4 pairs

Footwear

• Well-broken-in trekking boots with good grip

• Lightweight camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)

Gear

• Daypack (20–30L) with rain cover

• Trekking poles (optional but helpful for descents)

• Water bottle or hydration bladder (1.5–2L capacity)

• Sunglasses with UV protection

• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries

• Sleeping bag (recommended in colder months; guesthouses provide blankets)

Personal Items

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

• Lip balm with SPF

• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)

• Small quick-dry towel

• Basic first aid kit (band-aids, blister pads, pain relievers)

• Personal medications

• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

• Toilet paper (always handy on the trail)

Miscellaneous

• Cash (Nepali rupees – there are no ATMs on the trail)

• Power bank and charging cable

• Lightweight snacks (nuts, energy bars, etc.)

The Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic and beginner-friendly treks, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, mountain vistas, and cultural experiences. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this 4-day trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna region, showcasing stunning Himalayan panoramas, charming villages, and lush rhododendron forests.

This trek is a perfect introduction to trekking in Nepal, suitable for families, first-time trekkers, solo travelers, and wellness seekers. The highlight of the journey is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,531 ft)—one of the best viewpoints in the Himalayas, where you can witness the golden sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare.

Starting and ending in Pokhara, this short Himalayan adventure is packed with unforgettable scenery, warm local hospitality, and gentle physical challenge.

What the Trek Involves

The Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek involves 3 days of moderate hiking and 1 day for travel and return. You’ll be walking around 4–6 hours per day, ascending and descending along well-maintained stone steps and forest trails. The trek is non-technical and doesn’t involve high-altitude risk, making it ideal for people with average fitness.

Your nights will be spent in cozy local guesthouses (teahouses), and mornings often start with yoga, meditation, or simply enjoying serene mountain views. While the terrain involves some uphill sections, especially the stone steps to Ulleri, the trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

Route Description & Altitude Highlights

The trek begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From here, the trail gradually ascends through terraced farmlands and Magar villages to Ulleri (2,050m / 6,726 ft). The next day, you’ll pass through magical rhododendron forests on the way to Ghorepani (2,874m / 9,429 ft), a lively village surrounded by peaks.

Before dawn on Day 3, you'll hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,531 ft) for an unforgettable sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Afterward, the trail descends through forests and traditional Gurung settlements until you reach Ghandruk (2,012m / 6,601 ft)—a beautiful village rich in culture.

Your journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Pokhara.

Key Altitude Highlights:

• Nayapul: 1,070m / 3,510 ft
• Ulleri: 2,050m / 6,726 ft
• Ghorepani: 2,874m / 9,429 ft
• Poon Hill: 3,210m / 10,531 ft
• Ghandruk: 2,012m / 6,601 ft
• Pokhara: 822m / 2,697 ft

Why Choose the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

• Breathtaking Sunrise Views: Poon Hill offers one of the most iconic sunrise panoramas in Nepal, showcasing over a dozen Himalayan giants.
• Ideal for Short Holidays: Perfect for those with limited time, this 4-day trek packs maximum beauty and cultural richness in a short duration.
• Great for Beginners: A low-altitude, non-technical trek with manageable daily walking distances.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Interact with the friendly Magar and Gurung communities and stay in traditional teahouses.
• Diverse Landscapes: Walk through lush forests, terraced fields, and scenic villages surrounded by majestic peaks.
• Mindful Escape: A great trek for solo travelers, wellness seekers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature and themselves.

Permits Required for the Trek

To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need the following permits:

1. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – Required for all trekkers
2. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Grants access to the protected Annapurna region

These permits are included in your package and will be arranged by Places Nepal Pvt. Ltd. before your trek begins.

What to Expect on the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Early morning views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks
• Comfortable teahouse stays with home-cooked meals
• Welcoming local villages and cultural immersion
• Lush rhododendron forests and natural scenery
• Stone-paved trails and gentle climbs
• A rejuvenating escape from the city into the peaceful mountains

Expect a well-balanced adventure where you don’t need to be a hardcore trekker to experience the magic of the Himalayas. This trek delivers a true taste of Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage without requiring intense physical effort.