Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Nepal's best short trek — sunrise over the Annapurnas

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the most popular short trek in Nepal, and for good reason. In just 5 days, you will witness one of the most famous sunrise panoramas in the Himalayas from Poon Hill (3,210m), walk through blooming rhododendron forests, stay in traditional Gurung villages, and enjoy close-up views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). This is the ideal introduction to Himalayan trekking — short enough for limited schedules, spectacular enough to be unforgettable.

Duration 5 days
Difficulty Easy
Group Size 6-14
Price From $450
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Day-by-Day Itinerary

A detailed look at each day of your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek adventure. Every itinerary is crafted to balance trekking, acclimatization, and cultural experiences.

Day 1

Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul — Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5 hours), the trailhead. Begin trekking along the Modi Khola river through rice paddies and small Magar villages. Gentle climb to Tikhedhunga, a small village at the base of a famous stone staircase. Walking time: 3-4 hours.

Day 2

Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m)

The biggest climb day — ascend the stone staircase from Tikhedhunga through oak and rhododendron forest. Pass through Ulleri (2,070m), a Magar village with great views, and continue climbing to Ghorepani. In spring, the rhododendron forests along this trail are in full bloom — red, pink, and white. Walking time: 5-6 hours.

Day 3

Day 3: Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m) — Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)

Wake at 4:30am for the 45-minute climb to Poon Hill. Watch the sunrise illuminate Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu — an unbroken wall of Himalayan giants. Return for breakfast, then trek through dense forest to Tadapani with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre ahead. Walking time: 5-6 hours.

Day 4

Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m)

Descend through mossy rhododendron forests to Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in Nepal. Traditional stone houses with slate roofs line the narrow streets. Visit the Gurung Cultural Museum and enjoy stunning sunset views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Walking time: 3-4 hours.

Day 5

Day 5: Ghandruk to Nayapul — Drive to Pokhara

Final descent through terraced farmland to Nayapul (3-4 hours walking). Drive back to Pokhara. Free afternoon to relax by Phewa Lake, go paragliding, or explore Pokhara's lakeside restaurants. Farewell dinner with the team.

What Is Included

Included in Your Trip

  • All Permits & Fees

    Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS card, and all local entry fees included.

  • Experienced Local Guide

    A certified, English-speaking guide who knows the Annapurna foothills intimately leads every departure.

  • Teahouse Accommodation

    Twin-share teahouse lodging throughout, plus hotel in Pokhara on the first and last nights.

  • All Meals on Trek

    Three meals per day on the trail — breakfast, lunch, and dinner at teahouses along the route.

  • Porter Support

    Porter carries your main bag (up to 15kg) so you trek with just a daypack.

  • Ground Transport

    All transfers between Pokhara and trailhead (Nayapul) included.

Not Included

  • International flights to and from the destination
  • Travel insurance (required, purchased separately)
  • Personal gear and equipment
  • Tips for guides and support staff (recommended)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary

Difficulty: Easy

Understanding what to expect helps you prepare properly and enjoy your trek to the fullest.

Fitness Requirements

  • Looking for a short Himalayan trek (5 days) that delivers world-class mountain views
  • Beginner trekker with basic fitness — able to walk 4-6 hours per day on hilly terrain
  • Want to experience traditional Gurung village culture and hospitality
  • Interested in photography — Poon Hill sunrise is one of the most photographed panoramas in Nepal
  • Have limited time but still want an authentic teahouse trekking experience

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek — Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Poon Hill trek?
The Poon Hill trek is rated Easy and is Nepal's most beginner-friendly multi-day trek. The maximum altitude is 3,210m (Poon Hill), well below the threshold where altitude sickness typically becomes a concern. The steepest section is the stone staircase from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri on Day 2. If you can walk uphill for 5-6 hours, you can do this trek.
When is the best time for the Poon Hill trek?
October-November for the clearest skies and best visibility. March-April is equally popular because the rhododendron forests between Ulleri and Ghorepani are in spectacular bloom. This is a lower-altitude trek, so it is also feasible in December-February (cold mornings but clear) and even early monsoon (June) if you do not mind some cloud cover.
Is this trek good for families?
Yes, the Poon Hill trek is one of the best family treks in Nepal. Children aged 10 and above with reasonable fitness can complete it comfortably. The daily walking hours are manageable, teahouses provide comfortable accommodation, and the Poon Hill sunrise is an experience children remember for life. We can adjust the pace for families.
Can I combine Poon Hill with another trek?
Absolutely. The Poon Hill trail shares its starting and ending points with the Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit. A popular combination is Poon Hill plus ABC, which adds about 5 extra days. We can customize an itinerary that links Poon Hill with other treks in the region.
What if the sunrise is cloudy on Poon Hill?
Cloud cover does happen, especially outside of peak season. However, even on partially cloudy mornings, the play of light on the mountains is dramatic and beautiful. In October-November, the odds of a clear sunrise are roughly 80%. Our guides monitor weather patterns and will adjust the schedule if a better morning is expected.

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