Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – Best Short Trek in Nepal

Duration

5 days

group size

2-10

altitude

3210m

trip start

Kathmandu

Best season

Autumn, Spring

difficulty

easy

Trekking Nepal Pvt.Ltd.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most beautiful short treks in Nepal, offering an incredible mix of Himalayan scenery, traditional mountain villages, and rich cultural experiences. This easy-to-moderate trek is perfect for beginners and nature lovers who want to experience the magic of the Annapurna region in a short time.

The highlight of the journey is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), where you witness a breathtaking sunrise over some of the world’s highest peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli. The golden light over the snow-covered mountains creates one of the most unforgettable views in the Himalayas.

Along the way, you pass through charming villages such as Ulleri, Ghorepani, Ghandruk, Landruk, and Dhampus, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities. The trail also takes you through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and peaceful valleys, making every step scenic and enjoyable.

With a maximum altitude of only 3,210 meters, this trek has minimal risk of altitude sickness and is suitable for all age groups. Starting from the vibrant city of Kathmandu and passing through the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers the perfect combination of nature, culture, and adventure.

It is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a short yet unforgettable Himalayan experience, filled with spectacular views, cultural encounters, and peaceful mountain landscapes.

Trek Highlights

✔ Witness a spectacular Himalayan sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m)
✔ Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli
✔ Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests and traditional mountain villages
✔ Discover the rich Gurung and Magar cultures of the Annapurna region
✔ Suitable for beginners, families, and experienced trekkers alike
✔ Low altitude with minimal risk of altitude sickness
✔ Experience the beauty of both Kathmandu and Pokhara
✔ One of the most scenic and accessible treks in Nepal
✔ Perfect combination of nature, culture, and Himalayan adventure

detailed itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu (1,350 m) – Pokhara (820 m)

After breakfast, travel to Pokhara by tourist bus. The scenic journey follows rivers, terraced hillsides, and traditional villages. Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing evening beside beautiful Phewa Lake with stunning views of the Annapurna range.

Driving Distance: 200 km
Driving Time: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: —
Elevation Loss: -530 m
Altitude: 820 m
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2: Pokhara (820 m) – Nayapul (1,070 m) – Ulleri (1,960 m)

After a short drive to Nayapul, begin your trek through picturesque villages, rice terraces, and subtropical forests. Cross several suspension bridges before reaching the famous stone staircases leading to Ulleri, a charming Magar village.

Driving Distance: 42 km
Driving Time: 1h30
Trekking Distance: 10 km
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: +890 m
Elevation Loss: -100 m
Altitude: 1,960 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 3: Ulleri (1,960 m) – Ghorepani (2,860 m)

Today's trail climbs steadily through magnificent rhododendron and oak forests. During spring, the hillsides burst into color with blooming rhododendrons. Along the way, enjoy increasingly spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri before arriving in Ghorepani.

Trekking Distance: 11 km
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: +900 m
Elevation Loss: -80 m
Altitude: 2,860 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 4: Ghorepani (2,860 m) – Poon Hill (3,210 m) – Tadapani (2,630 m)

Wake before dawn for the highlight of the trek: a sunrise hike to Poon Hill. From the summit, witness one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the Himalayas, with views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and many other peaks. After breakfast in Ghorepani, continue through forests and ridgelines to Tadapani.

Trekking Distance: 13 km
Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +500 m
Elevation Loss: -730 m
Highest Point: 3,210 m (Poon Hill)
Overnight Altitude: 2,630 m
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 5: Tadapani (2,630 m) – Ghandruk (1,940 m) – Pokhara

A beautiful day of trekking through dense forests and traditional Gurung villages. The trail descends steadily towards Ghandruk, one of the most famous and picturesque villages in the Annapurna region, known for its stone-built houses, rich Gurung culture, and breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. After exploring the village and enjoying lunch, you will bid farewell to your Nepali trekking team, sharing your last special moments together before leaving the mountains.

Then, you take a scenic jeep drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you are transferred to your hotel and enjoy free time to relax, explore the lakeside, or shop in the vibrant streets of the city.

Trekking Distance: 8–10 km
Walking Time: 3–4 hours
Elevation Gain: +250 m
Elevation Loss: -690 m
Altitude: 1,940 m (Ghandruk)
Drive: Ghandruk – Pokhara (approx. 3–4 hours)
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara

inclusion

2 Night hotel in Pokhara
Professional city tour guide for sightseeing and monument visits in Kathmandu
All ground transportation as per the itinerary:
Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus
Pokhara to Nayapul by private vehicle
Ghandruk to Pokhara by Public vehicle
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek on a full-board basis during the trek (lodges on twin-sharing basis, 3 meals per day, and 1 hot drink per meal – tea or coffee)
Full trekking support crew, including meals, accommodation, and logistics for the local trekking team
1 professional licensed English-speaking or Francophone Nepali trekking guide

Exclusion

Nepal visa fees and personal travel insurance (including evacuation, cancellation, medical coverage, etc.)
All alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water, and fruit juices
Entrance fees for monuments in Kathmandu and any transportation related to sightseeing visits
Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (unless otherwise stated)
Personal expenses such as tips, phone calls, laundry, souvenirs, etc.
Anything not specifically mentioned in the “What’s Included” section