Annapurna Region, Nepal • Mar–May, Sep–Nov

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 8 Days

Embark on a journey to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint for a sunrise you'll never forget. This gentle trek weaves through lush forests and traditional villages, offering world-class mountain views without the extreme altitude, making it one of Nepal's most beloved short treks.

8 DaysEasy to ModerateAnnapurna Region, Nepal

Key Information

Duration: 8 Days
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Start Point: Kathmandu
Group Size: 1–15 (Private trip available)
Max Altitude: 3,210m (Poon Hill)
Activity: Trekking & Cultural Tour

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a jewel in the crown of the Annapurna region, renowned for its spectacular sunrise view over the Himalayas. From the iconic Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m), you are greeted with a 360-degree panorama of some of the world's highest peaks, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), and the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). This trek is designed for those who want a big Himalayan experience in a short amount of time.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the lakeside city of Pokhara. From there, the trail leads you through a landscape that changes from subtropical valleys to enchanting rhododendron and oak forests. In spring, these forests explode in a riot of red and pink colors from the national flower of Nepal. You'll pass through terraced farmlands and traditional villages inhabited by the Gurung and Magar communities, known for their rich culture and hospitality.

This 8-day itinerary is carefully paced for acclimatization and enjoyment, with daily walks of 4-7 hours. It's the perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking, offering a profound sense of achievement and unforgettable memories, all while staying in cozy teahouses along the route.

Highlights of This Trek

Witness the legendary sunrise from Poon Hill, with panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests, which are in full, vibrant bloom during the spring season.
Experience the unique culture of Gurung and Magar villages, including a visit to the large and scenic village of Ghandruk.
Enjoy a relatively easy trek with a maximum altitude of just 3,210m, making it accessible to beginners and families with good fitness.
Relax in the serene surroundings of Pokhara, with its beautiful Phewa Lake, before and after your mountain adventure.

Why Choose the 8-Day Poon Hill Trek?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is often described as the perfect 'short and sweet' Himalayan trek. It's designed for travelers who are short on time but still want to experience the grandeur of Nepal's mountains and the charm of its rural life. In just over a week, you'll tick off all the highlights of a classic Himalayan adventure without the need for high-altitude trekking experience or intense physical preparation.

Its accessibility is a major draw. The trails are well-maintained and the risk of altitude sickness is minimal, as the highest point is only 3,210m. This makes it an ideal choice for first-time trekkers, families, or anyone looking for a comfortable yet immersive introduction to the Himalayas. Yet, despite its ease, the reward is immense—the sunrise from Poon Hill is considered one of the finest mountain views in the world.

The trek is not just about the mountains; it's a cultural journey. Walking through villages like Ulleri and Ghandruk provides a window into the daily lives of the Gurung and Magar people, who are famous for their role as Gurkha soldiers. The combination of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and comfortable logistics makes this trek an unbeatable choice for a short holiday.

Highlights of Why Choose the 8-Day Poon Hill Trek?

Perfect for those with limited time who want a complete Himalayan experience.
Low altitude and moderate difficulty make it accessible to beginners and families.
A rich cultural experience interacting with Gurung and Magar communities in authentic village settings.

Fitness & Preparation

Graded as easy to moderate, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is achievable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. You'll be trekking for 4 to 7 hours each day on well-defined trails. The main challenge is the numerous stone steps, particularly the 3,000+ step ascent from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, which serves as a great leg workout. No technical trekking experience is required.

To get the most out of your trek, we recommend building up your stamina in the weeks before your trip. A routine of regular walking, jogging, cycling, and stair climbing will make your days on the trail much more enjoyable. The fitter you are, the more you'll be able to appreciate the stunning surroundings without feeling overly fatigued.

Your guide will set a comfortable pace ('bistari, bistari'—slowly, slowly) to ensure everyone in the group can manage the daily walks. Listening to your body, staying well-hydrated, and packing a positive attitude are the keys to success on this beautiful trek.

Highlights of Fitness & Preparation

Prepare with regular cardio and stair climbing for 3-4 weeks before your trek.
Pack light and smart, using a layering system for your clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.
Break in your trekking boots well before your arrival in Nepal to avoid blisters on the trail.

Trek Highlights

Discover the unforgettable experiences that make this journey extraordinary

Sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m)

Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
a truly unforgettable panoramic view.

Panoramic Himalayan Views

See over 30 snow-capped peaks
including Dhaulagiri
Annapurna South
and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
in crystal-clear clarity.

Rhododendron Forests

Trek through enchanting forests of rhododendron
especially beautiful during the spring blooms of March-April.

Gurung Village of Ghandruk

Explore the traditional village of Ghandruk
visit its cultural museum
and experience the hospitality of the Gurung people.

Scenic Drive to Pokhara

Enjoy the beautiful drive or flight to Pokhara
Nepal's premier lakeside city
with its serene atmosphere and stunning mountain reflections.

Ideal for Beginners

A perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking
with a moderate difficulty and low risk of altitude sickness
suitable for families.

Cost Details

Transparent pricing with no hidden costs

Includes

Airport pick-up & drop-off (private vehicle)
2 nights' twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star Kathmandu hotel with breakfast
2 nights' twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star Pokhara hotel with breakfast
All ground transportation: Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus (upgradeable to flight at additional cost)
Private vehicle transportation: Pokhara to Nayapul and Ghandruk to Pokhara
All necessary trekking permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
Licensed English-speaking trekking guide (experienced in the Annapurna region)
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, max 20-25kg load)
Guide and porter wages, meals, accommodation, equipment, and insurance
All teahouse accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing basic rooms)
Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek, as per the teahouse menu
First-aid kit including a pulse oximeter for daily health checks
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after the trek)
All government taxes, VAT, and service charges

Full Value Package

Excludes

Nepal visa fee (to be obtained on arrival at TIA)
International airfare
Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except as noted in itinerary)
Personal expenses: hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi, alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks, snacks
Extra nights in Kathmandu or Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or any unforeseen delays
Tips for guides and porters (customary but not mandatory)
Personal trekking gear (e.g., trekking poles)
Optional flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara or Pokhara to Kathmandu

Additional services might be available upon request

Itinerary

8 days

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Thamel. After check-in, you can rest or explore the vibrant streets. In the evening, you'll have a detailed trek briefing with your guide, complete a final gear check, and prepare for your adventure.

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel (Kathmandu)

Altitude

1,400m

Duration

—

Distance

—

Meals

Welcome drink

Location

Kathmandu

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive to Pokhara. The journey follows the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers, offering beautiful views of rural Nepalese landscapes. Alternatively, you can upgrade to a 25-minute flight for spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free to explore the Lakeside, enjoy dinner with mountain views, or simply relax by Phewa Lake.

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel (Pokhara)

Altitude

820m

Duration

6–7 hrs (drive) / 25 min (flight)

Distance

~200 km

Meals

Breakfast

Location

Pokhara

After breakfast, we take a private jeep or bus from Pokhara to Nayapul (approx. 1.5 hours), the starting point of our trek. The trek begins with an easy walk along the banks of the Modi Khola River to the bustling village of Birethanti. From here, the trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola, gradually ascending through charming villages and terraced fields to reach the settlement of Tikhedhunga, nestled in a valley surrounded by lush hills.

Accommodation

Tea House (Tikhedhunga)

Altitude

1,570m

Duration

4–5 hrs trek / 1.5 hr drive

Distance

~9 km trek

Meals

B/L/D

Location

Tikhedhunga

Today is a challenging but rewarding day. The day begins with a steep climb up the famous 3,000+ stone steps from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri. Ulleri is a beautiful Magar village with stunning views of Annapurna South. From Ulleri, the trail becomes more gradual, winding through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests. In spring, this section is a visual treat with blooming rhododendrons. We'll stop for lunch at Nangethanti before continuing our ascent to the ridge-top village of Ghorepani, our home for the night.

Accommodation

Tea House (Ghorepani)

Altitude

2,860m

Duration

6–7 hrs

Distance

~11 km

Meals

B/L/D

Location

Ghorepani

The most memorable day of the trek begins early, around 4:30 AM. We'll hike by headlamp for about 45 minutes to the iconic Poon Hill viewpoint. Here, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. The panoramic view includes Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). After soaking in the views and capturing countless photos, we descend back to Ghorepani for a warm breakfast. We then continue our trek, following a scenic ridge trail through rhododendron and pine forests to Tadapani, a beautiful village with excellent mountain views.

Accommodation

Tea House (Tadapani)

Altitude

3,210m (Poon Hill)

Duration

6–7 hrs

Distance

~12 km

Meals

B/L/D

Location

Poon Hill

After breakfast, we begin our final day of trekking with a descent through lush forests. The trail offers more stunning mountain views before arriving at the large, picturesque Gurung village of Ghandruk. Here, you can explore the village, visit the Gurung Museum to learn about the local culture, and see its traditional stone houses and terraced fields. After exploring Ghandruk and enjoying lunch, we'll take a private jeep drive back to Pokhara (approx. 2-3 hours). The rest of the evening is free to celebrate your achievement with a well-deserved meal by the lake.

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel (Pokhara)

Altitude

2,012m (Ghandruk)

Duration

4–5 hrs trek / 2-3 hrs drive

Distance

~8 km trek

Meals

B/L

Location

Ghandruk

After a leisurely breakfast in Pokhara, you can enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll by Phewa Lake. We'll then begin our scenic drive back to Kathmandu (6-7 hours) or take an optional flight (25 minutes). Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for independent activities.

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel (Kathmandu)

Altitude

1,400m

Duration

6–7 hrs (drive) / 25 min (flight)

Distance

~200 km

Meals

Breakfast

Location

Kathmandu

Your wonderful trekking journey ends today. Our team will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. You'll leave Nepal with a heart full of Himalayan magic and memories to last a lifetime. If your flight is the following day, we can arrange an extra night's accommodation.

Accommodation

—

Altitude

1,400m

Duration

—

Distance

—

Meals

Breakfast

Location

Kathmandu

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers grouped by topic for your convenience.

Additional Info

Accommodation Standard

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will stay in comfortable 3-star hotels on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast included. Our partner hotels are centrally located, allowing easy access to restaurants and shops.

During the trek, accommodation is in local teahouses. Rooms are basic but clean, typically twin-sharing with a bed and pillow. Hot showers are available for a small fee (Rs. 100-300) at most teahouses. Most teahouses have communal dining rooms with heaters, where you can socialize with other trekkers and enjoy meals.

Please note that facilities become more basic as you gain altitude. A good sleeping bag is essential for comfort, especially during the colder months.

A sleeping bag liner adds extra warmth and hygiene.
Earplugs can be helpful for a good night's sleep in shared accommodations.
Power banks are essential as charging facilities at teahouses may cost extra.

Meals on the Trek

All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) are included during the trek. You'll order from the teahouse menu, providing good variety each day. A typical breakfast might include porridge, muesli, eggs, toast, Tibetan bread, and pancakes. Lunch and dinner offer a range of options from traditional Nepali Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) to noodles, soups, pasta, potatoes, and momos.

Dal Bhat is highly recommended by guides as it provides sustained energy, is easily digestible, and is often served with unlimited refills, making it great fuel for trekking.

We recommend bringing some of your favorite high-energy snacks (energy bars, chocolate, nuts) as options at teahouses are limited and may not suit all tastes.

Stick to warm, cooked meals and avoid raw salads to minimize the risk of stomach upsets.
Carry water purification tablets or a SteriPen to treat tap water, reducing plastic bottle usage.

Permits Required

We arrange all necessary permits for you, which are included in the cost:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.

2. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Required for all trekkers in Nepal.

Please bring 2-3 passport-sized photos and a copy of your passport for permit applications.

Packing List (Essentials)

Clothing: Layering is essential. Bring: thermal base layers (merino wool/synthetic), trekking shirts, fleece jacket or light mid-layer, down jacket (provided, but you can bring your own), waterproof and windproof hardshell jacket and pants, trekking pants, warm hat, sun hat, gloves, and plenty of trekking socks.

Footwear: Well-broken-in waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support. Comfortable camp shoes or sandals for evenings at teahouses.

Gear: 40-50L duffel bag (for porter), 20-30L daypack, sleeping bag (rated to 0°C or lower, provided on loan), trekking poles, headlamp with extra batteries, UV-protected sunglasses, water bottles/hydration bladder (2L capacity), water purification tablets.

Toiletries & Health: Sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm with SPF, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, personal first-aid kit (including blister care, pain relievers, and any personal medication).

Extras: Power bank, camera, universal adapter, quick-dry towel, and a good book for evenings.

Pack light! Your main duffel bag for the porter should not exceed 10-11 kg.
Use dry bags or packing cubes to keep gear organized and dry.
Carry your valuables (passport, cash, camera) in your daypack at all times.

Weather & Best Time to Trek

Spring (March to May): Excellent time with moderate temperatures (10-24°C) and blooming rhododendron forests. Daytime is warm, but mornings and evenings at higher altitudes are chilly.

Autumn (September to November): The most popular time for trekking. Stable weather, crystal-clear skies, and spectacular mountain views. Daytime temperatures similar to spring, with cooler nights.

Winter (December to February): Possible for well-prepared trekkers with proper cold-weather gear. Trails are very quiet, but it's cold at higher altitudes, with night temperatures dropping below freezing. Daytime temperatures at lower elevations can still reach a comfortable 15°C.

Monsoon (June to August): Not recommended for most. Heavy rain, leeches on lower trails, and cloud cover obscuring views can make the trek difficult.

Layering is the key to comfort regardless of the season.
Always be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially at higher altitudes.

Health & Wellness Tips

• Pacing: Walk slowly and steadily. The mantra 'bistari, bistari' (slowly, slowly) applies to all Himalayan treks. Enjoy the journey, don't rush.

• Hydration: Drink at least 3-4 liters of water or warm fluids per day. Proper hydration is essential for energy and acclimatization.

• Nutrition: Eat well, even if you don't have a big appetite. Carbohydrates are your best fuel. Dal Bhat is your friend!

• Acclimatization: While the risk is low, follow the recommended pace. Be honest with your guide about how you're feeling.

• Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap or sanitizer, especially before meals, to prevent stomach issues.

Avoid alcohol and tobacco during the trek.
Listen to your body – if you feel unwell, tell your guide immediately.

No gallery images available

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Elevation Profile (8 Days)

A classic 'there and back' style trek with a stunning early morning hike to the main viewpoint.

Max Altitude

3,210m

Day 5

Total Ascent

2,390m

3 days

Total Descent

2,390m

4 days

Avg Altitude

1,988m

8 days

Cost and Date

Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 8 Days set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the departure dates don't fit your schedule, we can arrange alternative dates that better suit your needs.

Start Date

6 Mar 2026

End Date

14 Mar 2026

Guaranteed

Price from US$650

per person for groups

Start Date

20 Mar 2026

End Date

28 Mar 2026

Available

Price from US$650

per person for groups

Start Date

5 Mar 2027

End Date

13 Mar 2027

Guaranteed

Price from US$700

per person for groups

Start Date

19 Mar 2027

End Date

27 Mar 2027

Available

Price from US$700

per person for groups

Trek Route Map

Kathmandu to Kathmandu via 5 stops — free OpenStreetMap, no API key required.

Start: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) & Transfer to Hotel
Stop: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m) – 6-7 Hours
Stop: Drive to Nayapul & Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,570m)
Stop: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m)
Stop: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
Stop: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (2,012m) & Drive to Pokhara
End: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu – 6-7 Hours

Similar Treks You Might Like

Discover more amazing treks in Annapurna Region

HIDDEN GEM

9 Days

Mardi Himal Trek – 9 Days

$750per person

View Details

BEST-SELLER

14 Days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 14 Days

$1,090per person

View Details

HIDDEN GEM

11 Days

Pikey Peak Trek – 11 Days

$950per person

View Details

Explore All Treks

From

$599.00