Ghorepani/Poon Hill Trek
Photo Credit: Daniel Keppler w/t Sherpa Lab Trail-Running Training Group Event
Trek Details
Max Altitude:
The maximum altitude for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is 3,210 meters (10,529 feet), reached at the famous Poon Hill viewpoint, offering stunning sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Location: Nepal (Annapurna Foothills Region)
Estimated Price: $500-$800 (Depending on package, group size and desired number of days, excursions and amenities).
All treks are customizable.
Number of days: ~5-9 (shorter directly from Pokhara).
Season:
The maximum altitude for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is 3,210 meters (10,529 feet), reached at the summit of Poon Hill itself, offering spectacular sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making it a popular, relatively low-altitude trek suitable for beginners.
A classic Ghorepani Poon Hill trek involves starting from Pokhara, driving to Nayapul/Birethanti, trekking via Ulleri to Ghorepani, hiking Poon Hill for sunrise, then continuing to Tadapani, then Ghandruk, and finally returning to Pokhara, usually taking 4-6 days from Pokhara, offering stunning Annapurna views and rhododendron forests, perfect for short Himalayan adventures.
Key Highlights & Tips
Views: Panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) from Poon Hill.
Nature: Rhododendron forests (especially beautiful in spring).
Culture: Visit traditional villages like Ghandruk.
Permits: You need TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Guide: A licensed guide is now compulsory for foreign trekkers.
Variations: Can be done in 3 days (faster pace) or extended for more exploration, notes Ace the Himalaya.
Itinerary
Days 1-2:
Arrive in Kathmandu, sightseeing, and preparation. Welcome dinner with guide.
Day 3: Flight/Bus to Pokhara
Day 4: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874m)
A challenging ascent with many stone steps, passing through forests to reach Ghorepani village (Trek time: 5-7 hours).
Day 5: Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
Pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise views of Annapurna & Dhaulagiri.
Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek through forests to Tadapani (Trek time: 6-7 hours).
Day 6: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m)
A shorter, scenic trek down to the large, traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk (Trek time: 3-4 hours).
Day 7: Ghandruk to Pokhara (Trek & Drive)
Trek from Ghandruk to Syauli Bazaar/Kimche, then drive back to Pokhara (2-3 hrs). (Trek time: 3-4 hours).
Days 5 or 8: Return back to Kathmandu or to next planned region/excursion.