Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Poon Hill trekking takes you through dense jungles filled with rhododendrons, birch, juniper, fir, and bamboo. Your trail mostly runs through these lush forests. As you climb above Ghorepani, you will see the pine trees of the tropical highlands. Some of the popular landmarks that are visible during the Poon Hill Trek route are Ghandruk, Ghorepani, Tadapani, etc, along with the views of the stunning mountain ranges like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, etc.

The route towards Poon Hill begins from Nayapul, following footpaths through rural villages. From there, you will reach Ulleri, where you will reach Ghorepani. After Ghorepani, we first climb towards Poon Hill and then descend to Ghandruk via Tadapani village.

The route to Poon Hill is Nayapul – Birethanti – Hile – Ulleri – Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani – Ghandruk – Syauli Bazaar. The initial part of the trek includes steep stone staircases. You will pass through small villages of Magar and Gurung people. The plants change from subtropical to tropical as you climb. While some steep sections are during the trek, it is suitable for beginners with short daily walking times.

Is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, beginners can trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. In fact, it is one of the most suitable short treks for beginners. Its difficulty ranges from easy to moderate based on the experience required and overall difficulty factors that the trekkers might face during their excursion. The Poon Hill trek’s average duration is about 3-4 days, ideal for first-timers.

The highest point reached is Poon Hill, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. While some sections can be challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to high altitudes, the well-maintained trails and availability of teahouses along the way make it a manageable trek for most beginners. They can overcome the challenges while enjoying the stunning views of the valleys, skies, and mountains.

Despite being an easy-to-moderate level trek, beginners especially need to prepare and plan for the trek. First, they must be physically fit and tune their body to handle the steep ascents and descents. Furthermore, beginners should hire guides and porters to make their trek safer.

Poon Hill Trek Pricing Based on Group Size

As the table indicates, the Poon Hill trek cost is varied according to the number of trekkers in one group. For example, it will cost about $340m per person; however, if the trekking group increases to 2 to 4, the cost decreases to $299 per person. If the group is more than 10 people, the cost per person decreases to $250.

Viewpoints, Villages, and Rhododendron Trails of Poon Hill

Golden sunrise from Poon Hill Viewpoint

Stationed on a ridge above Ghorepani, Poon Hill is an iconic viewpoint. It offers magnificent views of the gigantic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and surrounding mountains. Trekkers hike to the viewpoint early in the morning to witness one of the most magical sunrises against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Rugged ridges, snow, and a capped summit create a stunning contrast against the morning sky. It’s a mesmerizing watch as the color imprinted on the mountains shifts from soft hues of pink to orange. As the day unfolds, the color changes to shades of gold and white. Additionally, the morning air is crisp and invigorating.

Rhododendron village of Ghorepani

Ghorepani village is the highest point during the Poon Hill trek. “Ghore Pani” translates to “horse water” in Nepali. Long before, this village used to be a rest stop for traders and travelers to quench the thirst of their horses and mules on the way to Tibet. Today, the village offers a tranquil ambiance amidst dense rhododendron forest for travelers. During the spring months (March to May), Ghorepani is vibrant and vivid, with an explosion of Rhododendron colors. You will gaze at the red, white, and pink flower canvas. The village is the final point of ascent on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and we will begin our final stretch of hiking.

Living Gurung culture at Ghandruk Village

The massive peaks of the Annapurna Mountains surround the village of Ghandruk. It is the largest Gurung village in the Annapurna region, portraying the artistic aura of centuries ago. The main entrance of the village is filled with stone houses adorned with colorful Buddhist prayer flags. Inhabited mostly by Gurung people, this village is also the starting point for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It stands at an elevation of 1939 meters and is the most densely populated village on the Poon Hill trek. Ghandruk is the best place to witness and immerse in the Gurung culture and customs.

Trekking through Rhododendron-filled trails

Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal and is highly regarded not only for its captivating beauty but also for its medicinal benefits. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is home to the world’s largest rhododendron forests. The trail to Poon Hill and Ghorepani is filled with the colorful hues of blooming rhododendron flowers in spring. It changes into an alluring canvas of red, pink, white, and purple blossoms, creating a surreal and fairy-tale-like setting. In other seasons, the tree looks lush and vibrant, offering a beautiful atmosphere.

Trek Duration and Pricing Option

The average trek duration of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek ranges from 2 to 5 days. The trek’s cost changes on the trek’s duration, which means the less duration trek costs less than the more duration trek

• The 2-day Poon hill trek is US$229 per person, Your trek starts from Ulleri, and treks to Ghorepani, The Next morning, you climb to Poonhill for sunrise, the Himalayas view, and then same way back to Ulleri. From Ulleri, drive back to Pokhara.
• 3-day Poon hill treks US$259 Per person, Your trek starts from Syauli Bazar via Nayapul, trek to Tadapani, Ghorepani, Poonhill, and then same way back to Hile. From Hile, drive back to Pokhara.
• The 4-day Poon hill trek is US$299 Per person, you start the trekking from Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill, and then another route to Nayapul via Tadapani and Ghandruk village.
• 5 Days Poon hill trek US$349 Per person, you start the trek from Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill, Tadapani, Jhinu Natural Hot Spring, Syomrong, and back to Pokhara.

Transportation Options for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

To access the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking trail, you must first travel from Kathmandu to Phara and then get to the starting point, Nayapul. So, we will break the route into two parts and provide you with the details for the journey:

From Kathmandu to Pokhara

You can choose either a road or an air route to travel from Kathmandu, the capital city, to Pokhara. The roadway is the most common means of transportation. It takes 6 to 9 hours of travel time, but the price is more budget-friendly. There are various roadway options for traveling. The travel time may vary slightly depending on the mode of transportation. Meanwhile, taking a flight is more comfortable and convenient. It takes 25 to 35 minutes to fly between the two cities. However, more comfort comes at a higher price.

Here are the various transportation options and the cost for traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara:

From Pokhara to Nayapul

Upon reaching Pokhara, you will need to travel to Nayapul. Depending on your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek itinerary, the starting point may vary slightly. Our trek starts from Nayapul, which takes 1 to 1.5 hours to reach by road from Pokhara. There are no airways connecting the point. There are various transportation options available to get there. They are as follows:

Can we see Sunrise from Poon Hill?

Yes, we can see the sunrise from the Poon Hill. In fact, seeing sunrise and sunset from the Poon Hill trek is among the best attraction of the Poon Hill trek. First, this popular hill is at an elevation of 3,210 meters, which is why it is the perfect vantage point for the panoramic views of the mountains and the stunning sunrise and sunset.

However, to see the amazing sunrise, trekkers must time their trekking accordingly. They must arrive in Poon Hill before dawn, which is why the time between 5 Am to 5;30 Am is often important, and the trails towards the hill are quite crowded. The trekkers often come overnight and stay in the hotel at Ghorepani and wake up early in the morning for the Poon Hill trek so that they don’t miss the sunrise.

Another excellent viewpoint along the Ghorepani Poon Hill route is Thapla Danda (3,165 m). It offers a spectacular sunrise with panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you want to avoid the crowd in Poon Hill Viewpoint, Thapla Danda provides a perfect alternative. It is at a similar height, but without any crowd. There are very few trekkers early in the morning, so the atmosphere is peaceful. You will wake up early, at the same time as Poon Hill. But you will carry all your belongings. After the view from Thapla Danda, your trek continues to Deurali. You will have breakfast at Deurali and continue to Tadapani.

Starting and Ending Points During the Trek

As a general practice, the Poon Hill trek is initiated from Nayapul. It is a small village located on the highway, 40 kilometers northwest of Pokhara. This marks the starting point for the Poon Hill trek. However, the road has been paved from Nayapul to Ulleri, which is accessible via a Jeep or a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

It is possible to start the trek from Hile, Tikhedhunga, or even Ulleri. Many trekkers still prefer to follow the classic route and begin their trek from Nayapul. From Nayapul, trekkers will pass through landscapes that include jungles, peaks, valleys, and riverbanks. The trekkers will pass through villages like Ulleri, Nangethanti, Deurali, and Ghorepani before taking a hike to Poon Hill.

Depending on the itinerary, the ending points of the trek can also vary. You can end the trek at Ghandruk and take a jeep ride to Pokhara. Similarly, you can also choose Kimche, Syauli Bazaar, or Nayapul as the ending stop for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Our 4 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek ends at Syauli Bazaar, and you will hop on a jeep to Pokhara. Note that depending on the starting and ending points, the trekking days can be shortened or extended.

Communication Services for Poon Hill Trek

Unlike 4-5 years back, the Poon Hill trekking trail has a strong reach of network communication now. There is a good reach of cellular and data services in the area. The parts of the trekking trail have 4G access for you to connect with your loved ones. That being said, since the geography is remote and difficult to access, the network gets disrupted most of the time.

Communication may not be as smooth as at lower altitudes, so people often carry satellite phones with them. However, compared to another high-altitude trek, even at the peak of Poon Hill, communication is still decent, which means you can talk to your loved ones without any complications.

A Beginner’s Guide to Challenges and Preparation

The trek to Ghorepani-Poon Hill is a leisurely adventure suitable for beginners. It takes 4 to 6 days, including the descent, making it ideal for novice trekkers. Although the initial part of the trail is steep and may leave you breathless, your body will adapt as you gain altitude, making the ascent more manageable. The Poon Hill trek is highly recommended for novice and beginner trekkers.

This trek can serve as a stepping stone for those looking to participate in high-altitude traverses, such as the Manaslu Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and the Everest Three High Passes Trek. Although this trek is easy to moderate, certain challenges may still affect beginners on their first excursion. These challenges are:

• Altitude – Altitude can be one factor that increases the difficulty level, especially for beginners. The trekkers will reach an elevation of 3210m. Due to the high altitude, beginners will face specific difficulties, including unpredictable weather, freezing temperatures, and, most importantly, the risk of altitude sickness. Beginners are not as well-trained in acclimatization to minimize altitude sickness. Hence, Ghorepani Poon Hill is an ideal trek for beginners to learn steady pacing.
• Terrain – The Poon Hill trek does not traverse rugged terrains like the ABC Trek or the Circuit Trek. However, the trekkers still need to cross some tough landscapes and climb steep ascents, which can be tough if their stamina is not at to standard.
• Remoteness – The Poon Hill Trek initially passes through established towns. Still, after a while, you will reach remote villages like Ulleri, Deurali, Ghorepani, etc., which are underdeveloped compared to cities and towns. Hence, trekkers will not find the infrastructure or services they are often accustomed to.
• Meal Options – The Poon Hill Trek is quite popular among trekkers who love to explore the culture, rituals, and traditions of the people in the Annapurna region. The cultural immersion also includes food options, which, at high altitudes, are limited to local Nepali dishes such as Dal Bhat, Dhido, and Ghundruk. Some foreign trekkers may prefer Western cuisine over Nepali food, which is relatively scarce in these situations. So, they can learn to adapt to the meal options of the Himalayas.

You can Check: Poon Hill Trek A Complete Guide

When to Go for the Best Experience?

For the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek in Nepal, three seasons are considered best for trekking. They are spring (March to May), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February).

Spring is the most favored time for Poon Hill trekking. It provides ideal weather and temperature for trekking. Compared to other seasons, the weather is more stable, which helps trekkers and guides plan more accurately. One of the best attractions of trekking in spring is the chance to see the blooming rhododendron forests and wild flowers. Similarly, the clear views of the skies and mountains motivate the trekkers to trek for several days.

Autumn is another peak time to trek to Poon Hill. Like Spring, the Autumn season also provides perfect weather and temperature for trekking. The trekkers are drawn to the clear view of the mountains and the lush vegetation. The autumn season also offers an opportunity to witness various Nepali festivals. Two national festivals, Dashain and Tihar, coincide with this time, allowing trekkers to learn about the festivals and immerse themselves in the local culture. However, winter draws closer in late November, and the temperature starts to drop slightly.

Winter is typically considered an off-season for trekking. Many high-altitude treks are often not possible in the winter, but this is not the case for the Poon Hill trek. Since the trekkers will only reach an altitude of 3,210 m, the weather and freezing temperatures won’t affect them as much as at higher altitudes. It is the best time to enjoy the stunning views of the snowy landscapes and mountain vistas. However, trekkers must prepare for the cold weather and low temperatures, so packing essential clothing is necessary. Carrying warm gear and a sleeping bag for the night is advised if you are trekking during the winter.

On that note, the summer (June to August) months in Nepal coincide with the monsoon season. Heavy rain in the lower region makes the trail slippery and obstructs the Himalayan views. That being said, trekking can be done during this time, but with proper preparation and rain gear. There is the risk of landslides and mudslides due to heavy rain. Therefore, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is not recommended for the summer.

Note: March to April is the perfect time to watch the blooming rhododendron flowers. 

What to Expect for Meals and Accommodation on the Poon Hill Trek

Foods

The inclusive package of a trek to Poon Hill includes three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it begins before the initial stretch of the trek. The breakfast menus include soups, oatmeal, roti, chapati, pancakes, toast with jam, scrambled eggs, and fried eggs.

Meals during the Poon Hill trek offer a wide variety of cuisines. Let’s take a closer look at the food menus that trekkers can get during their trek.

• Breakfast: Simple Breakfast (Eggs, any item with hashbrown potato, toast, Gurung or Tibetan Bread, Pancake, Muesli, Oat Porridge, etc.)
• Lunch: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil Soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetables, Papadam, Tomato Hot and Spicy, Chicken Curry optional), Macaroni, Spaghetti, Potato Item, Mo.Mo or dumplings, Pizza, fried rice, Fried Noodles, French fries, etc.
• Dinner: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil Soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetables, Papadum, Tomato, Hot and Spicy, or Pickle, Chicken Curry Optional), Macaroni, Spaghetti, Potato Item, Mo.Mo or dumplings, Pizza, fried rice, Fried Noodles, French fries, etc.
• Dessert: Fresh fruit (apple, orange, pomegranate, banana, and any seasonal fruit) served as a sweet dessert.

Note: If you have any dietary restrictions, please inform us at the time of booking.

Accommodation

Teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses are the most standard accommodations available along the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The Annapurna region is home to the traditional hill communities of Gurungs and Magars. They run the accommodations along the route, offering shelter and meals to trekkers. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a teahouse trek, which means you will stay in various teahouses as you travel from one place to another. Along the trek, we will stay overnight in popular stops like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Tadapani.

Teahouses are similar to mountain lodges in the European Alps. These small wooden structure houses provide basic lodging facilities for trekkers. A typical teahouse will have twin beds with a foamed mattress. You will be provided with a pillow and a quilt. These houses are usually kept warm with a Bukhara stove built in the dining room of the lodge. Hot water shower and Wi-Fi facilities are available for an extra charge. During your stay in these small but cozy teahouses, you can get a glimpse at the local culture. Similarly, you will experience the warm hospitality of Nepal, enriching your Poon Hill Trek.

Preparing for the Poon Hill Trek – Fitness & Permits

Although the Poon Hill trek is not as tough as other trekking destinations, it still needs some preparation. The trekkers must be fully fit, have issued relevant permits, and pack all the necessary items; however, keep their luggage as light as possible if they want to enjoy the trek.

Raising fitness

First of all, being physically fit for a modest-height trek like the Poon Hill trek is essential, mostly for beginners. The trek has many ups and downs, which can take a toll on the body. The trekkers must be able to trek for two to three days and every day for about five to six hours. First and foremost, trekkers must try to increase their core strength and the strength of their legs. Increase the physical stamina and endurance level before booking the trek. You can indulge in the exercises like swimming, jogging, running, etc. The trekkers can also practice short hiking by carrying backpacks and luggage to test their stamina level.

Issuing Permits for Poon Hill Trek

The Poon Hill Trek trail passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is why trekkers are required to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. It is a mandatory permit that trekkers need to get to trek in the Annapurna region, including the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The permit is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the TAAN office in Pokhara. The ACAP costs are as follows:

• For foreigners: NPR 3000 (Approx. USD 23) per person
• For SAARC Nationals: NPR 1000 (Approx. USD 10) per person

Note: Himalaya Trip’s Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package includes ACAP. You must provide us with a copy of your valid passport and two passport-sized photographs for the permit. 

Poon Hill Trek Weather and Temperature Guide

The temperature will depend on what time you book the Poon Hill trek. But we organize this trek every day for the whole year. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September – November) are the best times to do this trek. If you want to see Rhododendron, February – April is the best time. If you want to walk in the snow during this trek, winter ( December – February ) is the best time.

• Winter (December – February): The minimum temperature will be around -5 Celsius, and the Maximum temperature will be 15 Celsius. The temperature will be slightly cold, but trek during this time is still nice weather. This is the right time to walk on the snow at this trek.
• Spring (March-May): Minimum temperature will be around +5 Celsius, and the Maximum temperature will be 30 Celsius. This is the best time to trek, with a clear sky and good temperatures. If you want to see the Rhododendron, this is the best time.
• Summer (June – August): The minimum temperature will be around +5 Celsius, and the Maximum temperature will be 30 Celsius. This is raining season, and we are still organizing this trek during this time. A Rain Poncho or Rain Jacket is recommended.
• Autumn (September – November): The minimum temperature will be around 0 Celsius, and the Maximum temperature will be 25 Celsius. This is another of the best times to go on this trek. After the rainy season, the weather will be fresh and beautiful.

Exploring Alternative Treks to Poon Hill

There are a few alternative routes for the Ghorepani Poon Hill that will give trekkers a similar experience to that of the Poon Hill Trek. These treks are also low altitudes and have less duration, which is not difficult compared to other major challenging treks in Nepal. So let’s get into them.

Hidden trail of Annapurna, Khopra Danda Trek

The Khopra Danda trek is an underrated and peaceful trekking spot in the Annapurna region. Often the trekkers are only aware of this trek if they visit or experience it for the first time. This trek takes about 7 to 8 days but can be curated according to your needs. You will arrive at Khopra Danda, which has amazing views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail.

Explore the sacred route with Jomsom Muktinath Trek

Jomsom Muktinath Trek is another amazing alternative to the Poon Hill Trek. In this trek, the trekkers will pass through different places of the Annapurna region, like Pokhara, Fewa Lake, Jomsom, and Kagbeni, which leads to the beautiful sacred place of Muktinath. Muktinath is important for the Annapurna region as a major attraction, but it is also equally important for the Hindus and Buddhists.

Experience Gurung Heritage with Ghandruk Trek

Just like the Poon Hill trek, there is other short and sweet destinations that the trekkers in Ghandruk Trek. This trek begins in Nayapul, similar to the Poon Hill trek, but instead of going to Ghorepani, it leads you to the lovely village of Ghandruk. Ghandruk is famous for its traditional Gurung culture, terraced fields, and beautiful mountain views. You can spend a day exploring Ghandruk before climbing up to Poon Hill through Tadapani and returning to Nayapul.

Comparing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and Mardi Himal Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is among the highly popular trek in the Annapurna region. However, another trek is also in the same area, the Mardi Himal Trek. Both treks are short-duration and low-altitude, ideal for beginners and trekkers who prefer less challenging treks. So let’s compare the Poon Hill trek with the Mardi Himal Trek.

What to Expect on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular short trek in Nepal. Thus, expect an exciting adventure and rich cultural immersion in just a time span of 4 days. It is an easily accessible trek that is ideal for beginners and travelers with limited time to spare. Despite the short journey, you will get an opportunity to witness the beautiful mountain panoramas and get a taste of trekking in the Himalayas. There is no need to take a long and physically demanding high-altitude trek to experience this.

During the trek, you can get spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. Throughout the journey, the mountain vistas will follow you. The views are especially spectacular from Poon Hill, the highest point on the trek. You will also get to enjoy a stunning sunrise from here. The trek passes through various landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows. Although the duration is short, expect to experience trekking in the diverse landscapes of the Annapurna region.

Similarly, during the 4-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, expect to immerse yourself in the rich culture and hospitality of the local people. You will meet with locals who live and celebrate their culture. The people of Nepal are very warm and friendly. They will welcome you with smiles and great hospitality. The relatively easy trek combines the rewarding scenery and cultural experience. So, expect the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek to be an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Benefits of booking Ghorepani poon Hill Trek Himalaya Trip

Many local trek agencies boast of providing the best services and itinerary for Ghorepani. So, why choose Himalaya Trip? Here’s why:

• Himalaya Trip offers round-the-clock customer support, so you can contact them with any questions or concerns at any time, day or night. Whether you have a last-minute query, need to change your itinerary, or encounter an unexpected situation during your trek, our team is always available to assist you.
• We have a team of experienced guides with over 20 years of know-how. They are well-experienced and knowledgeable about the trails and the region. Similarly, they are also trained to provide first aid and ensure the trekker’s safety at all times.
• We know that every traveler has their own preference and requirements. Thus, you can customize your itinerary as per your needs with Himalaya Trip. If you book with our company, you can tailor your trekking package to your interests, pace, modes of transportation, and fitness level.
• Himalaya Trip provides various discounts based on the number of trekkers, festivals, and seasons. Booking as a group comes with amazing deals and offers. Thus, be sure to explore all the areas and opportunities where you can receive a discount before you book with us.

Gear and Clothing for the Poon Hill Trek

Although the Poon Hill trek is somewhat easy to moderate level, trekkers still need to pack essential items of clothing, gear, or equipment depending on their preference or the season. However, compared to other high-altitude tough treks, the trekkers don’t need to take everything and can only pack essential things.

Clothing

• • • Hiking shoes
    • Trousers
    • Socks
    • Warm jacket,
    • T-shirts (two or three) and long-sleeved shirt,

Essentials

• • • Sunscreen (SPF 20+),
    • Backpack around 35 liters,
    • Torch (flashlight),
    • Camera, memory card, and battery charger( spare batteries),
    • Toilet Paper,
    • Quick-drying towel,
    • Warm hat,
    • Gloves,
    • Thermal underwear,
    • Sunglass,
    • Spikes in winter, etc.

Note: Spikes or crampons are recommended if you are doing this trek in winter ( December – February). A rain poncho or rain jacket is recommended if you are doing this trek in summer (June—August).