10 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Wondering what are the prominent attractions for Poon Hill Trek? Here are four significant highlights and attractions of your trek to Poon Hill.

Poon Hill Viewpoint

One of the major attractions of this trek is the viewpoint. Situated at 3210 meters, the viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain peaks. Ascending early morning, you can witness the perfect sunrise view over the Himalayas. It is a mesmerizing sight that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Ghorepani Village

Ghorepani is a traditional Gurung village and a popular stopping point for trekkers on this route. The town offers a glimpse into the local way of life. You will notice traditional stone houses, narrow alleyways, and friendly inhabited. From Ghorepani, there are various trekking routes leading to Poon Hill and onward to other destinations in the Annapurna region.

Ghandruk Village

Located at an altitude of 1940 meters, Ghandruk is a Gurung village renowned for its cultural heritage and stunning mountain vistas. The Gurung Museum in Ghandruk is a great place to learn about the local culture and history. The views of Annapurna and Macchapuchhere are truly mesmerizing, especially during sunset and sunrise.

Dense Rhododendron Forests

This trail takes you through the lush rhododendron forest, particularly between Tadapani and Ghorepani. In spring, red, pink, and white shades cover the hillside. Trekking through these dense rhododendron forests is a serene and enchanting experience, offering birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, you can expect stunning panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri in Poon Hill Trek. It typically starts from Nayapul and passes through charming villages inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities. The trek offers opportunities to experience the local culture and hospitality.

You will also witness breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas. You will also see colorful rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, and terraced fields, providing diverse and picturesque landscapes. Overall, you can experience a moderate-level trekking experience with awe-inspiring scenery and cultural immersion.

A typical day during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins early. Each day of the trek is exciting and a unique experience as you will travel past diverse landscapes. Similarly, you will witness beautiful sceneries and mountain vistas, explore new places and cultures, and meet friendly locals.

We will begin our day early and start our day’s trek around 7 to 8 am after breakfast. Depending on our destination and the distance, we will decide whether to start early or a little late. We will have to start our day before dawn to watch the sunrise view from the Poon Hill Viewpoint. On average, we will trek for 6 to 7 hours daily during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. We take a short lunch break and rest for a while around noon. The afternoon treks are relatively shorter.

Upon reaching our destination, we will take a short rest at our accommodation for the day. Then, we will explore around the villages until dinner time. The dinner is usually served between 7 to 8 PM. After dinner, the trek guide will give you a short briefing on the following day’s journey. Then, you can retire for the night or spend time playing cards or chatting with fellow trekkers.

The standard accommodations available during Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are mostly teahouses, lodges, guesthouses, and homestays. These stays are basic, with limited facilities, and are run by locals. Hence, these accommodations are budget-friendly. The rooms are usually on a sharing basis with communal squat-style bathrooms. Our Ghorepani Poonhill Trek package covers all your accommodations during your stay in Nepal. Hotels with breakfast will be arranged for Kathmandu and Pokhara stay. During the trek, your accommodations will be placed in lodges and guesthouses.

The stays provide beds, mattresses, blankets, pillows, and limited amenities. The rooms have no heating facilities, but they usually have a massive stove in the dining hall for heating purposes. You must pay extra charges for additional services such as phone calls, internet/ WiFi, hot water, hot showers, etc. These accommodations also provide meals with menus featuring Nepalese, Indian, continental, and Western cuisines. You can also try local cuisines that are unlikely to be found elsewhere.

The Poon Hill Trek cost can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the trek, the level of service, and the trekking agency; on average, the cost can range from $500 to $1500 per person. 

The packages vary for individual and group travelers. They include accommodations, transportation, and three meals a day throughout your 10-day stay in Nepal. The package also includes government-licensed guide costs, trekking permits, and conservation fees. For further details, you can contact us through our email or WhatsApp/Viber.

Nepal experiences four seasons annually. The summer season (June to August) coincides with the monsoon season, and there is heavy rainfall in the lower regions of the country. As a result, trekking is not recommended during this season. Meanwhile, the extreme weather and freezing temperatures in the winter (December to February) make it another least favorable time for trekking.

The best seasons for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The briefs are as follows:

Spring (March to May)

It is one of the best seasons for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The weather is pleasant, clear, and warm. The temperature at the beginning of the spring is slightly cold, and you can see remnants of snow on the trails of higher regions. It gradually gets warmer as the season progresses. The average temperature is around 10 to 18°C. Meanwhile, the temperature at Poon Hill is around 5 to 15°C.

Likewise, there is a minimum precipitation level, so you do not have to worry about sudden heavy rains. The visibility is great, and you can enjoy brilliant mountain views and beautiful scenery. The entire rhododendron forest trails of Ghorepani Poon Hill blooms during springtime. It blooms in different colors: red, pink, and white, adding vibrancy to entire landscapes. It is a spectacular time to take the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

Autumn (September to November)

The most favorable time for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is autumn. It has the most stable weather and climate with very little rainfall. Monsoon will exit Nepal by mid-September, and the weather will become drier. The average temperature is around 12 to 18°C. However, the temperature becomes slightly chiller during nighttime and morningtimes. It can drop to 0°C at nighttime. The visibility is extremely clear, so autumn is the best time to witness the crystal-clear views of the mountain panoramas.

The crisp weather and comfortable trekking conditions make autumn the favorite season among trekkers. Moreover, the colorful autumn foliage provides stunning views of the landscapes. You can also enjoy the festive atmosphere during Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek at this time. Two of the biggest festivals (Dashain and Tihar) fall during autumn. As it is peak trekking season, you must book your accommodations in advance. The trails are also likely to be crowded.

The difficulty level of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek has the grade of easy to moderate. Anyone with good fitness and health can participate in the trek. Hence, it is suitable for beginners without prior experience. The trekking trails are relatively easier and less physically demanding compared to other trek destinations of the Annapurna region. However, trekkers must still have to ascend and descend on varied terrains. During the trek, you will have to climb up and down around 3280 stone staircases.

The most difficult part of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is to climb the steep stone staircase to Ulleri. It is physically draining, but you can easily overcome it if you are physically fit. The highest point of the Poon Hill Trek is at 3210 meters above sea level at Poon Hill Viewpoint. There is only a slight risk of altitude sickness, but trekkers must still take proper precautions. As you move to higher elevations, the climb becomes more demanding, and the weather becomes unpredictable. Trekkers may also start to experience various symptoms of altitude-related sickness.

If you are trekking to Poon Hill, then it is advisable to carry some local chats with you. You may encounter difficulty in finding the currency exchange facilities on the route. You can exchange your currency upon reaching Nepal in airports or banks outside.

Also, Pokhara is another location where you can find exchange counters. Furthermore, an ATM is also the perfect place for you to exchange Nepali currency. It is always necessary to carry local money for your expenses in accommodation, meals, permits, and any additional purchases.

Many factors make the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek a unique journey. Some of the primary factors are as follows:

Short and easy adventure

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short and easy adventure that is also enriching and rewarding. It only takes 4 to 5 days to complete the whole trek. It is a perfect venture for trekkers with limited time on hand. Similarly, its easy to moderate difficulty grade makes it suitable for beginners and families with children and elderly members. The journey may be short, but it is thrilling. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers one of the best trekking experiences in the Annapurna region.

Gorgeous sunrise/ sunset views

If you want to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrise or sunset views in Nepal, the Poon Hill Viewpoint is your answer. The viewpoint is famous for its gorgeous sunrise/ sunset with the gleaming white mountains on the backdrop. Most trekkers choose to hike to the viewpoint of the village of Ghorepani to witness the surreal sunrise. The sun’s golden rays paint the entire mountain ranges and background gold. It truly is a unique view you must witness once in your lifetime.

Magnificent panoramas

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers one of the most magnificent views of the mountain panoramas of the Annapurna region. You do not have to take long and demanding treks to witness these gorgeous panoramas. Hence, it is one of the popular short treks in Nepal. From the Poon Hill Viewpoint, you can witness the mountain range of Annapurna ranges, Machhapuchre, Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Tukuche Peak, and several other surrounding peaks. Similarly, you can witness these mountain ranges throughout your trekking journey.

Diverse biodiversity

The trekking trails of Ghorepani Poon Hill lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area. As a result, you will require an entry permit and also get a chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna. The trails go through dense subtropical forests. Thus, you can witness a variety of trees, mosses, ferns, orchids, herbs, and flowering plants. If you are lucky, you may come across wildlife species such as langur monkeys, Himalayan monals, and others. The trek offers a unique chance to observe the Annapurna region’s unique and diverse biodiversity.

Rich cultural experience

The short trek of Ghorepani Poon Hill allows you to immerse in the rich culture of the Annapurna region. The majority of the locals residing in the area belong to Magar and Gurung people. They are indigenous ethnic groups with unique cultures, traditions, customs, and lifestyles. Almost all the accommodations are also run by the locals. So, you will experience their culture and get a first-hand glimpse of their lifestyle. Similarly, you will experience authentic and warm Nepalese hospitality. You will also get to taste the local delicacies during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

The temperature of the Poon Holl trek varies depending on the altitude and the season. Here is a breakdown:

Pokhara (Starting point)

Pokhara lies at a lower altitude (around 827 meters), so temperatures are generally mild throughout the year. Highs are in the range of 18-25°C (64-77°F), and lows are in the range of 5-12°C (41-54°F).

Mountain Region (Ghorepani/Poon Hill)

The temperature will be more relaxed since you’ll be trekking higher into the mountains. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

• Spring (March-May): Pleasent weather with daytime highs between 10-18°C (50-64°F) and nighttime lows dipping to 0-5°C (32-41°F).
• Summer (June-August): These are the warmest days, with highs reaching 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the day. However, during the night, the temperature drops unexpectedly to 0-5°C (32-41°F).
• Autumn (September-November): One of Nepal’s most popular trekking seasons; during this time, you can expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The daytime temperature reaches 12-18°C (54-64°F), and nighttime drops to 0-5°C (32-50°F).
• Winter (December-Feburary): The coldest season, the daytime temperature is between 5-10°C (41-50°F). The temperature during the night falls to -5 to -10°F. Snowfall is also possible during this time.

To get to the starting point of Poon Hill trek and get back, you typically need to arrange transportation from Pokhara. Mainly, the transportation from Pokhara takes to Nayapul, which is the starting point for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. To get to Nayapul, you can use different modes of transportation, such as:

• Private vehicles
• Local Bus
• Shares jeep
• Use transportation provided by the trekking agency

Confirming your transportation arrangements with your trekking agency or making necessary arrangements in advance is essential. It ensures a smooth journey to and from the Poon Hill Trek. Additionally, road conditions in Nepal may be uneven; thus, be flexible with your schedule.

The remote and mountainous terrain limits communication services in Poon Hill. While some villages along the route may have a mobile network, the signal strength can be weak or unreliable. Before starting your trek, purchase a local SIM Card in Pokhara or Kathmandu. But be ready for occasional disruptions in connectivity.

Some lodges provide WIFI facilities, but they may be slow and limited. Also, some trekking agencies provide satellite phones for emergencies. Despite all these limitations, trekkers need to manage expectations and prioritize safety.

Being fit is essential for trekking, as it involves walking uphill and downhill on mountainous terrain. While the trek is moderately complex, you must have some physical and mental strength to complete it.

• Focus on improving your cardiovascular fitness through hiking, walking, or cycling.
• Strength your leg muscles, core, and upper body with squats, lunges, and planks.
• Stretch regularly to improve flexibility and prevent muscle stiffness.
• Practice stair climbing to stimulate the uphill sections of the trek.
• If possible, spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

For the trek, you typically need two permits: the TIMS card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

TIMS Card

All Nepal trekkers, including those in the Annapurna region, must have the TIMS card. It helps track trekkers and provides essential information for search and rescue operations in case of emergencies. There are two types of TIMS cards issued:

• Blue TIMS Card: For independent trekkers, cost NPR 2000.
• Green TIMS Card: For trekkers traveling with a registered company, it costs NPR 1000.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

Trekking in Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, requires this permit. It helps fund conservation and sustainable development projects in the region. The permit fees vary depending on your nationality:

• For SAARC nationals: NPR 300
• For other nationals: NPR 2000

What documents do we need?

To get the permits, you need some documents. Getting permits may be a hazard; thus, if you want a smooth experience, consider booking through a trekking agency. They will manage all the permits required before you trek. However, some documents we need:

• Passport (original and photocopy)
• Two passport-sized photos
• Complete application form
• Nepalese currency

Travel insurance is necessary for trekking, especially in the Himalayas. It provides financial protection against unforeseen circumstances that may disrupt or affect your trip. Here are some reasons to get travel insurance:

• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Medical coverage
• Emergency evacuation
• Lost or Delayed Baggage

The price of travel insurance can vary depending on factors such as age, destination, duration of the trip, and coverage limit. On average, it costs around $100 to $1500 per person. It is always essential to compare quotes from different insurance providers and carefully read the policies and terms.

Here is an essential list of equipment you might need for the Poon Hill Trek:

• Backpack
• Trekking Boots
• Waterproof clothing
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Sleeping bag
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp or Flashlight
• Waterbottle or Hydration System
• Snacks
• First Aid Kit
• Toiletries
• Trekking map or guidebook

Booking with Himalayan Leaders is easy and hassle-free. To provide you with a clear picture, take a look at the step-by-step booking process with us:

Step 1

You can check our websites to explore the various trek packages and check for availability. We have an English website (www.himalayanleaders.com) and an international, Dutch, and German website (www.himalayanleaders.be). You can also email us at info@himalayanleaders.com or speak with our English-speaking staff (00977-1-5312359 or 00977-1-5351070).

After checking the availability, you need to fill out the forms and provide your personal details. You can use Himalayan Leaders’ brochures and leaflets or download them. Likewise, you must provide us with a copy of your passport and passport-size photos.

Step 2

After filling out the forms, you will receive a booking confirmation via email. The mail will also contain your detailed tour itinerary. Please cross-check all the details before confirming your booking. You can make corrections if necessary.

Step 3

You need to pay a certain amount after you have confirmed your booking. You need to pay 20% of the total package cost for your trip/ trek to Nepal in advance. Meanwhile, you must pay 25% of the total package cost for your trip to Bhutan, India, and Tibet. The remaining amount should be paid four weeks before your scheduled trip.

Step 4

After we receive the advance payment, you will receive your final booking confirmation. You can relax and prepare for your trip ahead without any worry. If unforeseen events lead to your trip cancellation, conditions apply per our general terms and conditions. You can contact us if you have any queries!