Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek is one of the most popular short treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is famous for its spectacular sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210 m), where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

The trek also offers scenic trails through rhododendron forests, terraced farmland, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages, making it a perfect introduction to trekking in the Himalayas.

The Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek lies in the lower Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek typically starts near Pokhara, with the trailhead at, Tikhedhunga, Ghandruk or Ulleri, leading through Ghorepani and ending in Ulleri or Ghandruk,
You can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu by taking a domestic flight or by road journey. From Pokhara, private jeeps will take you to the trailhead (Ghandruk or Ulleri).

The trekking portion usually takes 3–4 days, depending on the chosen itinerary.
Most itineraries include:

• Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Ulleri
• Trek through Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani and Ghandruk
• Drive back to Pokhara from Ghandruk

Some travelers choose 4–5 day itineraries to include additional villages and a more relaxed pace.

Although this trek can be done all year round but the ideal trekking seasons are:

• Spring (March–May): Offers blooming rhododendron forests and mild daytime temperatures.
• Autumn (September–November): Provides clear skies, stable conditions, and festive vibes.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Feature fewer crowds and crisp snowy landscapes but chilly nights.
• Monsoon season (June–Aug): Brings lush greenery but also rain, with slippery trail, and limited visibility.

This trek is generally rated easy, making it even ideal for beginners with basic fitness level.  You will walk about 4–6 hours per day on forest trails, village paths, and stone staircases. The climb from Ulleri to Ghorepani includes several stone steps, which can be physically demanding but manageable for most people with reasonable fitness.

Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints because it offers one of the best sunrise panoramas in the Himalayas without requiring a long or difficult trek.
From the viewpoint, you can watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, creating stunning photographic opportunities.

The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 ft). You will usually hike to the viewpoint early in the morning before sunrise to enjoy the best mountain views.

On clear days, you can see several famous Himalayan peaks, including: Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli.

The panoramic view stretches across both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Yes. The Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek is widely considered one of the best beginner treks in Nepal.

The trails are well established, the altitude is moderate, and comfortable tea house accommodations are available along the route.

Yes. Because of its short duration, moderate altitude, and good infrastructure, the Poon Hill trek is suitable for: First-time trekkers, Families with older children, and even for active travelers in their 60s or 70s.

For the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, you only require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) which is included in the cost and Wind Horse arrange it for you.

Yes, most organized tours include:

• A licensed English-speaking trekking guide
• Porters to carry luggage (usually one porter for two trekkers)

Accommodation usually is in a local tea houses or mountain lodges along the route.

Rooms are generally simple but comfortable, usually with twin beds, blankets, and shared dining areas.

Some lodges in larger villages like Ghorepani or Ghandruk offer rooms with attached bathrooms, but many tea houses have shared bathroom facilities.

Tea houses offer a wide variety of meals, including:

• Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali rice and lentils)
• Fried rice and noodles
• Soups and vegetable curries
• Bread and pancakes
• Eggs, toast, and simple Western dishes

Only breakfasts are included in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Lunch and dinner in cities are usually not included, giving you flexibility to explore and choose restaurant of your choice.

No, sleeping bag for this trek is optional. Teahouses provide warm blankets or quilts, which are usually sufficient, even in cold winter months. However, if you’re sensitive to cold or trekking in winter, you can bring a sleeping bag of your own.

Essential trekking gear includes: Comfortable hiking boots, Warm layers and a waterproof jacket, Daypack and water bottle, Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, & Trekking poles (optional).

The risk of altitude sickness is relatively low because the trek remains below 3,500 meters. However, you should still walk at a comfortable pace and stay hydrated.

Mobile coverage from providers such as Nepal Telecom and Ncell is available in many villages along the route, though signals may be weak in remote sections.

Many tea houses offer Wi-Fi services, particularly in larger villages such as Ghorepani and Ghandruk. However, connections can be slow and may require a small additional fee.

Yes. Most lodges offer charging facilities for phones, cameras, and power banks, usually for a small fee.

Yes. we strongly advised you to purchase travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation.

Common exclusions include:

• Nepal visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry)
• Wi-Fi and hot showers
• Tips for guides and porters

Yes. Smaller villages along the trail may not accept credit cards, so it is advisable to carry enough cash in Nepali rupees for personal purchases and small expenses to last during the trek.

We suggest you carry around USD 15–20 per day in Nepali Rupees for personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and device charging.

Tipping is not mandatory, yet expected and is considered a gesture of appreciation for good service provided by guides, porters, and support staff.