Discover the Beauty of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days
The 9-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect short Himalayan adventure for trekkers seeking breathtaking mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and moderate trails—all without needing to reach extreme altitudes. This popular Annapurna region trek begins in Pokhara and takes you through charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, and scenic ridgelines. The highlight? A sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters), where you’ll witness an unforgettable panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges glowing in golden light. Ideal for beginners, families, and time-bound travelers, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers the ultimate mix of nature, culture, and comfort in just over a week.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek follows a scenic trail through vibrant rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages, offering a beautiful introduction to the Annapurna region. Starting from Nayapul (around 1,070 meters) and reaching up to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, the trek offers spectacular views of towering peaks like Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Hiunchuli, and the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The most iconic moment is the early morning hike to Poon Hill, where you witness a jaw-dropping Himalayan sunrise—an unforgettable reward for a relatively moderate effort. With daily walking distances of 5–6 hours, this trek is suitable even for beginners looking for a rich mix of cultural immersion and high-altitude adventure without the risks of extreme elevation. The feelings of accomplishment, serenity, and natural beauty along this short yet stunning route make it one of the most popular treks in Nepal.
As you journey along the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, especially through areas like Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Ghorepani, you’ll be surrounded by the lush biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area—Nepal’s first and largest protected region. The trail bursts into color during spring, with blooming rhododendron forests (Nepal’s national flower), magnolias, orchids, and countless wildflowers lining your path. This vibrant forest is also home to diverse Himalayan wildlife, including langurs, Himalayan tahrs, and a variety of birds such as colorful danphe (Himalayan monal), eagles, and woodpeckers—making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. As the altitude changes, the landscape transitions from subtropical forests to cooler temperate zones, offering a mix of serene woodland walks and open ridgeline views. These natural encounters add a deeper sense of connection with the environment and elevate the overall trekking experience.
One of the most enriching aspects of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the chance to immerse yourself in the authentic culture and daily lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar communities who inhabit the picturesque villages along the trail. From Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk, these ethnic settlements offer a warm welcome with their traditional stone houses, colorful prayer flags, and centuries-old customs.
You’ll notice locals dressed in traditional attire, often involved in agriculture, livestock farming, or running family-owned teahouses that serve trekkers with genuine hospitality. Meals like Dal Bhat, fresh vegetables, and local tea not only reflect Nepali cuisine but also support the community’s sustainable way of living in the Annapurna region.
Throughout your journey, you may come across Buddhist monasteries, prayer wheels, and Mani walls, all of which showcase the deep-rooted Buddhist and Hindu beliefs of the region. These spiritual elements add depth to the trekking experience, blending natural beauty with rich cultural significance.This cultural immersion offers more than just scenic beauty—it gives you a true sense of rural Himalayan life, where tradition, nature, and community live in harmony. Whether it’s watching a local festival, listening to folk songs, or chatting with villagers, you’ll leave with memories of a genuine Nepalese lifestyle that’s both heartwarming and unforgettable.
Route Overview of the 9-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the gateway to the Annapurna trekking region. From here, you’ll trek alongside lush rice terraces and cross the peaceful Bhurungdi Khola river before ascending towards Tikhedhunga, a small village nestled in the hills. The first day offers a glimpse into the rural life of Nepal, with stone steps, suspension bridges, and friendly locals greeting you along the way.
The next morning, a challenging uphill climb through thousands of stone steps leads you to Ulleri, and eventually to Ghorepani (2,874 meters). This beautiful village is surrounded by rhododendron forests and sits at the base of Poon Hill, your next early morning destination. The sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) is one of the biggest highlights of the trek—offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Hiunchuli.
After soaking in the sunrise views, the journey continues through dense rhododendron and oak forests toward Tadapani, a peaceful stop surrounded by nature. From here, the trail descends through a series of scenic ridgelines and forested pathways to Ghandruk, one of the largest and most culturally rich Gurung villages in the region. Ghandruk offers more incredible mountain views, traditional houses, and the chance to explore local museums and temples.
Finally, the trek descends to Kimche or Nayapul, where a vehicle will take you back to Pokhara, marking the end of this short but incredibly rewarding Himalayan journey. Throughout the trek, you’ll experience a well-paced mix of natural beauty, cultural interaction, and stunning Himalayan scenery, making the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek one of the best short treks in Nepal for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
🔆 Highlights of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 9 Days
- Stunning Sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m) – Witness one of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan panoramas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and more glowing under the morning sun.
- Perfect for Beginners & Families – Easy to moderate trail with no extreme altitudes, making it ideal for first-time trekkers or those with limited time.
- Explore Charming Gurung & Magar Villages – Discover traditional lifestyles, stone houses, prayer flags, and local culture in villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk.
- Walk Through Enchanting Rhododendron Forests – Trek through Nepal’s national flower-filled forests, especially magical in spring with blooms and birdlife.
- Immerse in the Annapurna Conservation Area – Hike through one of Nepal’s richest biodiversity zones, home to Himalayan monals, langurs, eagles, and more.
- Cultural Encounters at Every Turn – Visit local monasteries, Mani walls, and experience deep-rooted Buddhist and Hindu traditions along the trail.
- Daily Panoramic Mountain Views – Enjoy continuous views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, and the sacred Machhapuchhre from multiple viewpoints.
- Comfortable Teahouse Stays – Stay in cozy, family-run teahouses offering hot meals, warm hospitality, and an authentic mountain experience.
- Easy Accessibility from Pokhara – Begin and end your trek with a short scenic drive from the lakeside city of Pokhara—no need for flights or long travel.
- Short Yet Rewarding Himalayan Trek – All the beauty and culture of the Annapurna region packed into a manageable 9-day itinerary.
Best Time to Do Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek — Season-wise Guide
Choosing the best time to trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trail can greatly enhance your experience in Nepal’s iconic Annapurna region. Each season brings its own charm—whether it’s rhododendron blooms in spring, festive vibes in autumn, or peaceful, snow-dusted trails in winter. Below is a season-wise guide to help you plan the perfect Himalayan adventure.
- Spring (March to May):
- Enjoy blooming rhododendron forests and vibrant wildflowers along the trail. Clear skies offer spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Moderate temperatures make trekking comfortable.
- Enjoy blooming rhododendron forests and vibrant wildflowers along the trail. Clear skies offer spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Moderate temperatures make trekking comfortable.
- Autumn (September to November):
- Experience crisp air, stable weather, and stunning panoramic mountain vistas. This season coincides with many Nepali festivals, offering rich cultural experiences in the local villages.
- Experience crisp air, stable weather, and stunning panoramic mountain vistas. This season coincides with many Nepali festivals, offering rich cultural experiences in the local villages.
- Monsoon (June to August):
- Heavy rainfall can cause slippery trails and landslides. Trekking is not recommended during this time due to safety risks and limited visibility.
- Heavy rainfall can cause slippery trails and landslides. Trekking is not recommended during this time due to safety risks and limited visibility.
- Winter (December to February):
- Cold temperatures prevail, especially at higher elevations like Poon Hill. With proper warm gear, trekking is possible and offers quieter trails and clear views on sunny days.
- Cold temperatures prevail, especially at higher elevations like Poon Hill. With proper warm gear, trekking is possible and offers quieter trails and clear views on sunny days.
Accommodation and Food on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a comfortable and authentic trekking experience with locally run teahouses and lodges along the route. You’ll find basic but cozy accommodations in key stops such as Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Most teahouses provide twin-sharing rooms furnished with wooden beds, foam mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Keep in mind that rooms at higher elevations like Ghorepani may be smaller and colder, especially during the winter months.
Shared squat or western-style toilets are common, and hot showers are usually available at most stops for an additional fee, generally ranging from NPR 300 to 500. Electricity and mobile charging facilities are present at many lodges, some powered by solar energy. However, Wi-Fi connectivity is limited and often slow along the trail, and mobile signals from providers like NTC and Ncell can be weak or absent in more remote areas.
When it comes to food, you can enjoy traditional Nepali meals such as Dal Bhat (Dal Bhat Power 24 Hour), fried rice, noodles, momo (dumplings), pancakes, porridge, eggs, and chapati. Tea, coffee, biscuits, chocolates, and boiled water are also commonly available as snacks and refreshments, providing warmth and energy after a day of trekking.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Permits and Checkpoints
If you’re planning the scenic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek—one of the most popular short treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal—you’ll need to secure a few official trekking permits. These permits ensure both your safety and the preservation of the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
🏞️ Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Why is it needed?
The ACAP is required to enter and trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area, which protects biodiversity, forests, wildlife, and the traditional lifestyles of local communities.
What you need to apply:
- Copy of your passport
- Two (2) passport-sized photos
- Permit fee (payable via cash or card)
Where to get the ACAP:
- Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu (Bhrikutimandap)
- Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara (Lakeside)
- Authorized trekking agencies in Nepal
Permit Cost:
- Foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 per person
- SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person
🧭 TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Why is it needed?
The TIMS card helps keep a digital record of trekkers, enabling search-and-rescue if needed and ensuring safe trekking practices.
Types of TIMS Cards:
- Green Card – For independent trekkers: NPR 2,000
- Blue Card – For trekkers through agencies: NPR 1,000
To apply, you’ll need:
- Copy of your passport
- Two (2) passport-sized photos
- Your trek itinerary and emergency contact details
Where to get it:
- Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Authorized trekking agencies
✅ Checkpoints on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
During your trek, your ACAP and TIMS will be checked at various checkpoints, especially in:
- Birethanti (entry checkpoint after Nayapul)
- Ulleri or Tadapani (en route to Ghorepani)
- Ghorepani
- Other checkpoints depending on trail variation and return route
Make sure to carry your permits safely and keep digital backups if possible.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Difficulty & Fitness Level Required
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly treks in the Annapurna region. With gradual ascents, well-paved stone steps, and short daily walking hours, it is suitable for families, solo travelers, and even first-time trekkers who want to enjoy majestic Himalayan views without venturing too high.
🔹 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
This trek involves 4–6 hours of walking per day, with gradual elevation gain up to 3,210 meters at Poon Hill. The trail includes several steep stone staircases, especially from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, which can be physically tiring but manageable with breaks.
- No technical climbing is involved.
- The well-marked trail passes through charming villages and rhododendron forests.
- Altitude sickness is rare due to the moderate elevation.
- Trekking is possible year-round, making it a great short Himalayan hike.
🔸 Fitness Level Required
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is suitable for all age groups with basic fitness. You don’t need to be highly athletic, but a reasonable level of cardio fitness, leg strength, and stamina will help you enjoy the trek without fatigue.
To prepare:
- Walk, hike, or jog regularly for at least 4 weeks before the trek.
- Practice climbing stairs or hills to build leg endurance.
- Stay mentally relaxed—this trek is meant to be fun, scenic, and soul-refreshing.
Even if it’s your first time in the Himalayas, with a little prep and a positive attitude, the Ghorepani trek offers incredible rewards with minimal challenge.
🧭 Alternative Tours & Packages
- Mardi Himal Trek
A less-traveled trail that offers serene mountain landscapes and stunning close-up views of Machapuchare, this trek is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. - Mardi Himal Trek – Annapurna’s Hidden Gem Adventure
Journey through peaceful forested trails and high ridges with panoramic Himalayan vistas on this off-the-beaten-path trek in the Annapurna region.
Emily Anderson
2025-06-15 17:18:17
I had an incredible experience on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Vyas Treks Nepal! From the moment I landed in Kathmandu, their team took excellent care of me. Our guide was knowledgeable, patient, and kind. The sunrise view from Poon Hill was breathtaking and absolutely worth the early morning climb. I highly recommend this trek to anyone looking for a moderate hike with stunning views and great hospitality.