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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 7 Days | HGI Nepal
Sunrise over the Himalaya from Poon Hill on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
7 Days Itinerary

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Enjoy one of the most popular short treks in the Annapurna region. Walk through rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung and Magar villages, climb the famous stone staircase of Ulleri, and reach Poon Hill (3,210 m) for a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalaya.

7 DaysMax 3,210 mModerateTeahouse Stay
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Trip Facts

CountryNepal
Duration7 Days
DifficultyModerate
ActivityTrekking / Hiking
Max. Altitude3,210 m / 10,531 ft
Best SeasonMar–May, Sep–Nov
AccommodationTeahouse & Hotel
MealsFull Board on Trek
Start / EndKathmandu

Ghorepani Poon Hill Overview & Highlights

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal. This 7-day journey begins and ends in Kathmandu and explores the lower Annapurna region through rhododendron forests, terraced hillsides and traditional villages. It is an excellent choice for trekkers who want spectacular mountain views without a long expedition.

The trail climbs gradually from the Modi Khola valley to the village of Ghorepani, passing through Tikhedhunga and the famous stone staircase of Ulleri. The scenery changes from subtropical farmland and waterfalls to oak and rhododendron forest, which blooms in spring.

The highlight is the early-morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m). From the viewpoint you can watch the sun rise over Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

Along the way you stay in friendly mountain teahouses and experience the culture and hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities. The trek finishes with a return to Pokhara and a scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

Trek Highlights

  • Sunrise over the Himalaya from Poon Hill (3,210 m)
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
  • The stone staircase of Ulleri
  • Rhododendron and oak forests
  • Traditional Gurung and Magar villages
  • Ghorepani and Tadapani mountain villages
  • Ghandruk, a large traditional Gurung village
  • Short trek suitable for limited holiday time

Ghorepani Poon Hill Detailed Itinerary

7-Day Short Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu → Pokhara (Drive)

Pokhara · 822 m
Day 2

Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga

Tikhedhunga · 1,570 m
Day 3

Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani

Ghorepani · 2,860 m
Day 4

Poon Hill Sunrise → Tadapani

Tadapani · 2,610 m
Day 5

Tadapani → Ghandruk

Ghandruk · 1,940 m
Day 6

Ghandruk → Nayapul → Pokhara

Pokhara · 822 m
Day 7

Pokhara → Kathmandu (Drive)

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Travel by road along the Prithvi Highway through river valleys, hills and small towns. On arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere with views towards the Annapurna range.

  • Max. altitudePokhara (822 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs drive
  • OvernightHotel in Pokhara
DAY 2

Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then begin trekking through Birethanti and along the Modi Khola valley. Follow village trails, terraced fields and suspension bridges to reach Tikhedhunga.

  • Max. altitudeTikhedhunga (1,570 m)
  • Duration1.5–2 hrs drive + 4–5 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 3

Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Climb the famous stone staircase to Ulleri, then continue through Banthanti and Nangethanti in rhododendron and oak forest. Arrive in Ghorepani, a lively village with views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Max. altitudeGhorepani (2,860 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 4

Hike to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani

Rise early for the 45 to 60 minute hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) and watch the sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek through Deurali and forest trails to Tadapani.

  • Max. altitudePoon Hill (3,210 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek plus sunrise hike
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 5

Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk

Descend through rhododendron forest and enjoy views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Continue to Ghandruk, a large Gurung village known for its stone houses and culture.

  • Max. altitudeGhandruk (1,940 m)
  • Duration3–4 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 6

Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Walk down stone steps through terraced fields and villages to the Modi Khola valley. Reach Nayapul, then drive back to Pokhara for a hotel night and a relaxed evening by the lake.

  • Max. altitudePokhara (822 m)
  • Duration4–5 hrs trek + 1.5–2 hrs drive
  • OvernightHotel in Pokhara
DAY 7

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu by road along the Prithvi Highway, following river valleys and hillside settlements. Arrive in Kathmandu, marking the end of your Ghorepani Poon Hill adventure.

  • Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs drive
  • Trip endsDeparture or extension

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather, road conditions, health or other factors beyond our control. Cloud or rain may affect the Poon Hill sunrise view. We recommend keeping one or two additional days available.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route Map

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek map showing the route from Pokhara through Nayapul, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani and Ghandruk

Route: Kathmandu – Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani – Ghandruk – Nayapul – Pokhara – Kathmandu.

Elevation Profile

The trek climbs steadily from the Modi Khola valley through Tikhedhunga and Ulleri to Ghorepani. The highest point is reached at Poon Hill (3,210 m) on Day 4, after which the route descends through Tadapani to Ghandruk and Nayapul.

01,0002,0003,000 m8221,5702,8601,9408221,400Poon Hill3,210 mDay 1PokharaDay 2TikhedhungaDay 3GhorepaniDay 4Poon HillDay 5GhandrukDay 6PokharaDay 7Kathmandu
Highest Point3,210 mPoon Hill, Day 4
Lowest Point822 mPokhara, Day 1 and Day 6
DifficultyModerateAnnapurna foothill trek

Highest altitude reached each day in metres, Day 1 to Day 7.

Trek Difficulty

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a moderate trek. Expect 5–7 hours of walking on most trekking days, with long stone staircases between Tikhedhunga and Ulleri and steady climbs to Ghorepani. The early-morning hike to Poon Hill takes about 45 to 60 minutes. No technical climbing is required.

Physical Effort
Altitude
Technical Difficulty
Comfort Level

Scale 1 to 5. Ratings are guidance and depend on fitness and weather.

Best Season

Spring

March–May. Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons and beautiful mountain scenery.

Autumn

September–November. Clear skies, excellent mountain views and favourable trekking conditions.

Summer

June–August. Monsoon rain, leeches and cloudy conditions affect views on the lower trail.

Winter

December–February. Cold nights and possible snow above Ghorepani, although the trek is still possible.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Twin-sharing rooms with basic beds
  • Shared bathrooms in many locations
  • Hot showers may cost extra
  • Hotel accommodation in Pokhara is not included unless specified

Meals

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
  • Dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs and porridge
  • Tea and coffee
  • Boiled or purified drinking water

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Vegan meals can be arranged at teahouses. Please inform us when booking.

Gluten Free

Gluten-free meal options may be available. Bring specialist products if required.

Packing List

General

  • Four-season sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Down jacket
  • 30–40 L daypack

Head & Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm beanie
  • Neck gaiter
  • Headlamp
  • Sunglasses

Torso

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof shell

Lower Body

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking trousers
  • Comfortable trousers
  • Waterproof shell trousers

Hands & Feet

  • Liner and insulated gloves
  • Warm hiking socks
  • Waterproof trekking boots
  • Casual shoes or sandals

First Aid

  • Personal medication
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Blister plasters
  • Throat lozenges

Essentials

  • Passport and photocopies
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets
  • Toiletries and towel
  • Trekking poles
  • Energy snacks

Optional

  • Power bank
  • Camera or phone
  • Book or cards
  • Binoculars
  • Rain cover for daypack

Safety & Altitude

This trek reaches 3,210 m at Poon Hill, so mild altitude symptoms are possible for some trekkers. The itinerary ascends gradually. Our guides monitor trekkers and adjust the pace according to conditions.

  • Ascend gradually and follow acclimatization advice
  • Stay hydrated throughout the trek
  • Report headache, nausea or dizziness immediately
  • Descend if symptoms worsen
  • Guides carry a first aid kit
  • Insurance must cover trekking to 4,000 m and helicopter evacuation

Ghorepani Poon Hill Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

  • Kathmandu – Pokhara
  • Pokhara – Nayapul
  • Nayapul – Pokhara
  • Pokhara – Kathmandu

Meals & Accommodation

  • Full-board meals and accommodation during the trek
  • Tea and coffee
  • Drinking water as specified in package

Guide & Staff

  • Professional licensed trekking guide
  • Porter service
  • Guide and porter wages
  • Guide and porter insurance

Permits & Taxes

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Applicable TIMS permit or registration fees
  • Government and local taxes

Safety

  • First aid kit

Not Included

  • Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
  • International airfare
  • Extra nights due to delays
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Hot showers and device charging
  • Additional snacks and beverages
  • Optional sightseeing
  • Medical and emergency expenses
  • Nepal entry visa fees

Trekking with Children

Children under 10 may qualify for exemption from certain conservation-area entry fees, subject to applicable regulations. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek involves long stone staircases and steady climbs. Please inform us about your child’s age and trekking experience before booking.

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

Within 7 Days

Cancel within 7 days of booking and receive a 25% refund.

After 7 Days

Cancellations after 7 days are not refundable.

Last-Minute

Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Full payment: If you have paid the full amount, you receive 25% of the total payment back when cancelling within the refund window.

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Experienced, first-aid-trained and English-speaking guides.

Clear Pricing

Permits, transport, meals and staff costs are explained upfront.

Safety First

Flexible pacing and emergency evacuation coordination.

Fair Staff Treatment

Fair wages and insurance for guides and porters.

Private Treks

Private and small-group departures available.

Local Support

Our Kathmandu team is available before and during your trip.

Customer Reviews

See what trekkers say about HGI Nepal on Google.

 
 
 
 
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HGI organise our trip to Tibet from Nepal. They arranged all permits and everything to get all facilities in our tour. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. We recommend their services, they are very professional and caring! Thanks Jeevan
  
 
  
 
 
 
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I hiked the everest base camp trek with Laxmi, not only was the journey an amazing experience but the kindness and professionalism shown was outstanding. His knowledge and experience truly made the trek more enjoyable and his skill in nepali card games posed quite a challenge for me. Highly recommend
  
 
  
 
 
 
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The crew at HGI are exceptional.  Really careful planning and communication. Everything is explained,  the guides are experienced and totally trustworthy. The trek was awesome,  and the friendly attention to detail meant everything went smoothly.  If you want a personalised trip, where friends are made,  make a great decision and go with HGI.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Good guide and fast solution in case of emergency!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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We had an amazing experience on our trek organised by HGI. They were extremely professional and took care of everything from the start. The stand out of the whole trip was definitely our Guide Laxmi and assistant guide Aasish. Laxmi was extremely good at his job, he always made sure we were comfortable and safe. He was extremely knoweldgable and shared his knowledge of the environment and different cultures we encountered along the way.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Our group went around Manaslu with Laxmi and Aasish and couldn't be happier with the service provided by HGI.  Laxmi was very professional, knowledgeable and very skilled at card games.  The team at HGI really went above and beyond our expectations at every point in the trip.  Thank you.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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One of the most experienced Trekking Companies in Nepal working since the 80's Staff are the best,friendly and they know what has to be done while in mountains. If you are looking for serious people they are the best option for your Hiking routes in Nepal.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
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Ghorepani Poon Hill FAQs

General

How many days does the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek take?

The itinerary takes 7 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including the drive to Pokhara, four trekking days and the return journey.

How high is Poon Hill?

Poon Hill reaches 3,210 metres (10,531 feet), the highest point of the trek.

Do I need a guide or porter?

We recommend trekking with a licensed guide and can arrange porter services. Current permit and guide requirements should be confirmed before departure.

Difficulty & Fitness

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous trekking experience is helpful but not essential. Good fitness is important for the long stone staircases and daily walking.

How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?

The trek is moderate, with long climbs and descents on stone steps. It does not require technical climbing.

Weather & Best Season

What is the best time to trek?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for stable conditions and mountain views.

Arrival & Visa

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, subject to current Nepal immigration rules and eligibility.

Cost & Permits

How much does the trek cost?

The price depends on group size, travel dates and selected services. Contact HGI Nepal for a personalised quotation.

What permits are required?

ACAP and applicable trekking registration or TIMS requirements should be confirmed according to current regulations before departure.

Accommodation & Food

What accommodation is available?

Teahouses are used during the trek, with hotel accommodation in Pokhara according to the package arrangement.

What food is available?

Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs, porridge and some Western dishes.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

Many teahouses offer charging and Wi-Fi for additional fees, although services may be limited in some villages.

Health & Safety

What is the risk of altitude sickness?

Mild altitude symptoms are possible above 2,500 metres. Follow guidance from your guide and report symptoms immediately.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy should cover trekking to at least 4,000 metres and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What if the weather is bad at Poon Hill?

Your guide will assess weather and trail conditions. If visibility is poor, the sunrise hike may be delayed or the itinerary adjusted.

How to Book

  1. Fill in the Booking Form

    Submit your preferred dates, group size and travel details.

  2. We Get in Touch

    Our team will discuss your trip and answer your questions.

  3. Confirm and Pay the Deposit

    Once the itinerary and price are confirmed, pay the deposit to secure your trip.

  4. Pre-Trip Briefing

    Meet your guide in Kathmandu and review the plan and equipment.