Ghorepani Poonhill Trek – 8 Days
Introduction
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an easy-to-moderate adventure showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Annapurna region. Organized by ART Nepal Treks & Expedition, this trek is ideal for first-time trekkers, families, and anyone looking for a short yet rewarding Himalayan experience.
Starting from Pokhara, trekkers pass through terraced fields, peaceful villages, and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll meet locals practicing traditional lifestyles and enjoy authentic hospitality. The highlight is the sunrise at Poon Hill, where the views of the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre are truly unforgettable.
The trail’s gradual elevation gain reduces the risk of altitude sickness, making it accessible to most trekkers. Springtime brings a spectacular display of rhododendron blooms across the hills, adding bursts of color to the journey.
Along the route, ancient temples and monasteries provide insight into local spiritual practices. Villages like Ghandruk offer a cultural experience where you can learn about the Gurung and Magar communities, their traditions, cuisine, and handicrafts.
Evenings are spent in cozy lodges or guesthouses, enjoying local meals and interacting with fellow trekkers. Every step of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek presents new landscapes, from rivers and waterfalls to panoramic mountain vistas, making it a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.
With ART Nepal Treks & Expedition, you will have experienced guides ensuring your safety, comfort, and a fully immersive Himalayan experience. Whether trekking solo, with family, or in a group, this adventure promises memories that last a lifetime.
Preparing for the Trek
- Physical Fitness
- Moderate daily walks (4–6 hours) require good stamina. Jogging, cycling, or swimming can help build endurance.
- Strength exercises, especially for legs and core, improve balance and support.
- Trekking Gear
- Layered clothing for changing temperatures: base layers, insulated mid-layers, waterproof outer layers.
- Comfortable, waterproof trekking boots.
- Backpack (30–40L) with padded straps for comfort.
- Trekking poles for stability and support.
- Essentials
- Sleeping bag suitable for cool nights.
- First aid kit and personal medications.
- Water purification tablets or portable filter.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and headlamp with extra batteries.
- Required documents: TIMS Card, ACAP Permit, and travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
- Mental Preparation
- Learn about the route, culture, and local customs.
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Trip Duration
8 Days/7 Nights
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Group Size
2–10 people
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Maximum Altitude
3,210 m (Poon Hill)
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Trip Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
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Activities
Trekking, Sunrise View, Village Exploration, Cultural Experience
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Best Season
March–May, September–November
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Trip Start & End
Kathmandu-Kathmandu
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Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Accomodation
3★ Hotels (Kathmandu & Pokhara), Tea Houses/Lodges (Trek)
Highlights
- Scenic Beauty
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy sweeping views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
- Sunrise at Poon Hill: Witness a stunning sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna ranges from Poon Hill.
- Rhododendron Forests: Trek through vibrant rhododendron forests, especially colorful in spring.
- Cultural Experiences
- Local Villages: Explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani.
- Hospitality: Enjoy warm and welcoming treatment from local villagers in cozy teahouses and lodges.
- Pokhara: Visit the lakeside city of Pokhara, including Phewa Lake and local attractions.
- Trekking Adventure
- Varied Terrain: Walk through terraced farms, forests, and gentle hills.
- Manageable Route: Well-marked trails suitable for beginners and families.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax at the Jhinu Danda hot springs after a day of trekking.
Itinerary
Day 01
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our representative from ART Nepal Treks & Expedition will welcome you. Transfer to your hotel in Thamel and take some rest. In the evening, meet your trekking guide for an orientation about the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, check your equipment, and discuss the journey ahead.
Trip Duration:
—Altitude:
1,400 mMeal:
Not IncludedAccomodation :
3★ Hotel, Thamel (Kathmandu)Day 02
After breakfast, drive to Pokhara, a scenic city surrounded by mountains and lakes. Alternatively, take a short domestic flight (optional extra cost) to enjoy aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, relax or explore the Lakeside area of Pokhara.
Trip Duration:
7–8 hours driveAltitude:
822 mMeal:
BreakfastAccomodation :
3★ Hotel, PokharaDay 03
Travel to Birethanti, the starting point of your trek. Begin walking along scenic trails through green hills and small villages. Climb the famous stone stairways to reach Ulleri, a Magar village with spectacular views of Hiunchuli and Annapurna South.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hours trekAltitude:
1,960 mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tea House/Lodge, UlleriDay 04
Continue your hike through vibrant rhododendron and oak forests. Reach Ghorepani, a beautiful village offering stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Enjoy the peaceful environment and local culture along the way.
Trip Duration:
4–5 hours trekAltitude:
2,880 mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tea House/Lodge, GhorepaniDay 05
Wake up early to hike to Poon Hill for sunrise. Marvel at panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and the surrounding peaks. After sunrise, return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue trekking through rhododendron forests to Tadapani.
Trip Duration:
5–6 hours trekAltitude:
3,210 mMeal:
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccomodation :
Tea House/Lodge, TadapaniDay 06
Trek to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village known for its cultural richness and stunning mountain backdrop. Later, take a vehicle back to Pokhara, relax by Phewa Lake, or explore the Lakeside area.
Trip Duration:
3–4 hours trekAltitude:
1,940 mMeal:
Breakfast, LunchAccomodation :
3★ Hotel, PokharaDay 07
Drive back to Kathmandu through scenic routes along Prithvi Highway. Enjoy the views of rivers, hills, and local villages. Evening at leisure in Thamel, with a farewell dinner and cultural music to celebrate the trek.
Trip Duration:
7–8 hours driveAltitude:
1,400 mMeal:
Breakfast, DinnerAccomodation :
3★ Hotel, Thamel (Kathmandu)Day 08
Airport transfer for your international flight. If time allows, you can explore Kathmandu or take optional sightseeing trips before leaving.
Trip Duration:
—Altitude:
1,400 mMeal:
BreakfastAccomodation :
—Route Map
What's Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- 2 nights 3★ hotel in Kathmandu
- 2 breakfasts in Kathmandu
- All permits (TIMS Card, ACAP Permit)
- Domestic transportation as per itinerary
- Tea house/lodge accommodation during trek
- All meals during trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee)
- Experienced trekking guide (salary, food, accommodation, insurance)
- First aid kit with guide
What's Excluded
Essential Info
Best Season to Trek
Spring (March–May):
- Mild temperatures and clear skies.
- Blooming rhododendron forests.
- Rejuvenated landscapes with fresh greenery.
Autumn (September–November):
- Clear skies and excellent mountain visibility.
- Post-monsoon freshness in air and environment.
- Most popular trekking period in Nepal.
Food Availability
- Breakfast: Bread, chapati, eggs, porridge, soup, pancakes, cereals
- Lunch: Dal-Bhat, rice, noodles, pasta, momo, pizza, hamburgers, desserts
- Dinner: Similar to lunch with a mix of hot and cold beverages
Accommodation
- Teahouses and lodges, ranging from simple to moderate comfort.
- Twin beds, some with attached bathrooms; shared toilets common.
- Meals are served at the same location where you stay.
Trekking Difficulty
- Rated easy to moderate, suitable for beginners and families.
- Daily walks: 4–6 hours with gradual ascents.
- Steep or rocky sections may be challenging but manageable with proper breaks.
Travel Insurance
- Mandatory for this trek.
- Should cover medical emergencies, natural calamities, and high-altitude helicopter evacuation.
- Provide documents before the trek to ensure quick assistance if needed.
Altitude Sickness
- May occur above 3,000 meters.
- Symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite.
- Remedies: rest, hydration, medication (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, acetazolamide).
- Descend if symptoms persist.
Guide and Safety Measures
- ART Nepal Treks & Expedition provides experienced guides trained in first aid and high-altitude trekking.
- Guides ensure hygiene, meal safety, and proper lodging arrangements.
- Emergency evacuation by helicopter is available if needed (covered by insurance).
- Trek leaders can adjust itineraries for safety and comfort.
Booking Procedure
- Deposit Requirement: 10% of total package cost to secure your booking.
- Essential Documents: Submit copies of passport, photos, travel insurance, and flight details within one week of booking.
- Payment Options:
- Before arrival: bank transfer, online payment, Western Union
- Upon arrival: cash, bank transfer, or credit card
- Booking Confirmation: Sent after deposit and document submission. Includes detailed itinerary and instructions.
- Contact: Reach out via email, phone, or website for booking assistance and inquiries.
Equipment List
- Comfortable T-shirts
- Lightweight trekking pants
- Thermal innerwear
- Undergarments
- Warm hat / Sun cap
- Gloves
- Woolen socks
- Backpack (30–40L) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag (3-season)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottle / Hydration bladder
- Hiking boots (ankle support)
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Fleece or insulated jacket
- Down jacket (for cold mornings)
- Waterproof & windproof jacket
- Waterproof pants
- Extra pair of clothes
- Personal first aid kit
- Personal medications
- Water purification tablets / filter
- Sunscreen & lip balm
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, soap)
- Mobile phone
- Camera
- Power bank
- Charging cables
- Universal travel adapter
General Equipments
- Trekking map / guidebook
- Snacks & energy bars
- Small lock for backpack
- Passport copies
- Travel insurance documents
- TIMS Card & ACAP Permit copies