Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an incredible trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region starting and ending in Pokhara. The trek changes with the seasons, in the spring it provides colorful scenery, while in the winter it develops into a peaceful, snow-covered landscape. This trek is ideal for those who wish to explore the Himalayas but don’t wish for an exhausting trek. It easily combines natural beauty with cultural excitement.

Winding on scenic trails through lush valleys, terraced fields, and ancient (mossy) forests discloses sublime nature. Without doubt though the greatest feature is the rhododendron forests that bloom in spring. The brilliant colors combine to make a transparent natural canopy which envelopes you, creating an unreal tunnel of colors as you stride ahead. Each turn creates a new landscape, with white capped peaks of some of the Himalayas teasing you in the distance.

Poon Hill is the highlight of the trek, with stunning and panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The experience of watching the sunrise from the well-known viewpoint will remain with you for a lifetime. While the sunlight reflects off the mountains in gold-pruned views, the tranquility will evoke eeriness just as it is awe-inspiring. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Trails is astonishingly beautiful and while it is a trip for all different levels of trekking experience (beginning or experienced), it is also a much easier trek.

Each travel day is between five to six hours, with a combination of cultural learning with the Gurung and Magar villages, river crossings, and valleys of colorful flora. Each travel day encompasses a fair amount of uphill and downhill walking, although in relative ease for both novice and experienced trekkers for a trek where you can explore the Himalayas without committing to the commitments of more intense and longer treks. Despite the myriad of possibilities of experiences whether you have limited time, simply want to explore the natural beauty or are after an off-the-beaten-path adventure travel, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the trek of infinitely memorable experiences and possibilities.

Best Season for the Trek

Spring (March to May)
Spring is an incredible time to visit here, the rhododendron forests are in full bloom providing color and magical landscapes. The weather is generally warm and pleasant with clear skies and moderate temperatures, no better time to trek. The trails are generally not too busy, and you’ll be able to appreciate nature in all its vibrancy.

Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is also a wonderful season for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The weather is dry, and the skies are clear blue with uninterrupted views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges of mountains. The temperatures are mild, only perfect for trekking. Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, so you’ll encounter well-maintained trails and happy and lively villages along the trek

Winter (December to February)
Winter tends to be less popular because of the cold, particularly if trekking at higher elevations where snow provides a much quieter experience since there will not be as many trekkers on the trail. If you want to enjoy the snow-covered scenes and don’t mind the cold, you can have a peaceful and beautiful experience trekking in the winter months.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)
There are no trekking opportunities during the summer-monsoon season due to torrential rainfalls, which cause slippery trails, and general inaccessibility. Yet the green travel experience is alluring and will attract travelers who are not afraid of rain and want to enjoy the bang for their buck to its fullest.

Poon Hill Trek Short Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive to Kathmandu
• Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (1,400 m) and transfer to your hotel.
• Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Drive to Pokhara (900 m) in a tourist bus, approximately 7 to 9 hours.
• Overnight at a hotel in Lakeside Pokhara.

Day 03: Pokhara to Ulleri
• Drive to Birethanti (1,039 m) about 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Begin trekking from Birethanti to Ulleri (2,020 m) approximately 4 to 5 hours.
• Overnight at a guesthouse in Ulleri.

Day 04: Ulleri to Ghorepani
• Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,810 m), approximately 5 to 6 hours.
• Overnight at a guesthouse in Ghorepani.

Day 05: Poon Hill Sunrise and trek to Tadapani
• Walk early morning to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to view the sunrise over the Himalayas.
Trek to Tadapani (2,610 m) approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Overnight at a guesthouse in Tadapani.

06: Tadapani to Ghandruk
• Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940 m) approximately 4 to 5 hours.
• Overnight at a guesthouse in Ghandruk.

Day 07: Ghandruk to Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara

• You will trek from Ghandruk to Syauli Bazaar (1,170 m) for approximately 3 to 4 hours.

• You will drive back from Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara; the drive will take approximately 2 to 3 hours.
• Overnight in a hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara.

Day 08: Pokhara to Kathmandu

• You will begin the drive back to Kathmandu (1,400 m); the driving will take approximately 7 to 9 hours.
• Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 09: Kathamandu

• You will be driven to International Airport for your departure.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Packing list 
You’ve made it this far, here is a complete packing list to use to help you prepare for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This list is as suggested – you can adjust to your own liking and depending on the season you will be trekking in. Remember to pack additional warm layers if trekking in the winter. We will supply you with a 75-liter duffel bag for the trek, you will receive this duffel bag when we meet in Kathmandu for your pre-trip meeting. The duffel bag is yours to keep. You can also rent a sleeping bag and a down jacket for $25 each in Kathmandu.

General Gear & Equipment
• Puffy down jacket (Can be rented for plus $25)
• Daypack (35-45 liters recommended), with rain cover

Upper body gear & equipment
• Sun hat or cap
• Knitted hat/ beanie
• Scarf or neck gaiter
• Headlamp (plus extra batteries)
• Sunglasses 

Torso gear and equipment
• Technical fabric base layer (light-weight for warm months, heavier if trekking in the months with cooler temperatures)
• 2 Short sleeve technical shirts
• 2 Long sleeve technical shirts
• Waterproof, windproof shell
• Fleece jacket or pullover

Lower Body Gear & Equipment

Lower Body Clothing & Gear
• Technical Fabrics Base Layer (this can be lightweight for warm months, or medium to heavy weight for cool months)
• 2 Hiking Pants
• Relaxation Pants (ulan relax in teahouses)
• Waterproof/Windproof Outer Shell Pants
• Hiking Shorts

Hand Clothing & Gear
• Wool or Technical Fabrics Liner Gloves
• Hard-Shell Outer Gloves (and insulated for cold months)

Foot Clothing & Gear
• Wool or Technical Fabrics Warm Socks
• Hiking Socks
• Liner Socks (optional, like silk)
• Trekking/Hiking Boots (with waterproof preferably)
• Ice Cleats / Micro Spikes (For trekking from November to March, and to prevent slipping on ice or wet surfaces)
• Casual Shoes

Underwear
• Quick Drying Technical Fabrics Underwear (you can wash and dry during your trip)
• Sports Bras (for women)
• Pajamas or Sleeping outfit
First Aid Kits & Medications
(Note: Guides will carry the first aid kits and medications, but should carry personal kits and medications as well)
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm
• Ointment

Other Essentials
• Membership Pass
• Extra Copies of Passport photos
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Toiletry Kit
• Water Purification Tablets or UV Water Purifier (only if you plan on treating water)
• Hydration Bladder
• Towel
• Pillow Case
• Toilet Paper (2 rolls)
• High-Protein Snacks (protein bars or nuts)
• Waterproof/Dry Bags (for important documents and money)
• Airline Tickets (make sure you leave a copy at our office in Kathmandu, in case there is a flight schedule change)

Optional Gear & Equipment
• Power Bank/Extra Batteries
• Cameras and Mobile Phone
• Cards/Books
• Trekking Poles
• Whistle
• Thermos (for hot water)

Other Notes:
Once in Nepal, you can buy any supplies or gear at several shops in Thamel, the tourist center of Kathmandu. You will find reasonable trekking stuff there.
Adapt according to your personal preference and the duration of your trek. Please remember to pack lightly because you will be carrying your daypack while trekking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 

1. What does the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek comprise of? 
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most renowned short treks located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek has breathtaking panoramic views spanning Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. It is very scenic, relatively easy to accomplish, and provides a glimpse of Nepali culture. Because of its easy access, this trek is ideal for novice trekkers or those short on time.

2. What is the distance covered in the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The trek generally spans a distance of 40-50 kilometers (approximately 25- 31 miles) within the timeframe of 5-6 days. The trek starts at Pokhara and covers Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages. The most prominent feature of this trek is the sunrise view from Poon Hill.

3. When is the ideal time to undertake the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The ideal times to undertake the trek are during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these periods, the weather is mild, and the mountain views are unrivaled. 

4. How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
It is noted that the trek features slight uphill climbs. The trek is best described as moderately challenging. Though not terribly technical, most trekkers without high fitness levels are able to complete it, provided they are ready for strenuous long walking hours.

5. What is the height of Poon Hill?
Poon Hill is at an elevation of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). Although not particularly high, the risk of altitude sickness still exists, thus, it is crucial to pace and hydrate regularly.

6. Is a trekker guide obligatory?
A trek guide service may not be required as the trek can be undertaken alone. Although, a guide or porter can certainly add to one’s experience by offering local expertise and keeping you safe, as well as arranging much of the trek’s logistics. Alongside route, a guide supports interaction with locals and facilitates smooth communication.

7. What kind of accommodation can I expect?
On the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, the accommodation offers include teahouses or lodges. The restrooms are communal, but the rooms are greatly restful for trekkers and are rather straightforward and basic.

8. What should I pack for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
Key items to include are:
• a pair of good trekking shoes
• warm clothing (preferably in layers due to temperature drops in higher altitudes)
• a good quality sleeping bag (optional)
• a headlamp or flashlight
• a water bottle along with purification tablets
• sunscreen and sunglasses
• often the best camera to capture the idyllic landscapes is a phone

9. Am I able to do the trek without any prior trekking experience?
Absolutely, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an ideal trek for novice and beginner level trekkers. Regardless, being physically fit is vital due to the multi day walks involved.

10. Is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek friendly for families?
That is correct, the trek is perfect for families since, there is no need of advance level trekking skills or experience. Due to the relatively smaller distance of the trail, it can be accessed with ease and gives people a chance to take in the splendid nature as well as culture of the Annapurna region.

11. What is the highlight of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The highlight is watching the sunrise from Poon Hill as trekkers have an access to the superb views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare . The view from the top in the early morning is nothing less than mesmerizing.

12. What kind of food can I expect on the Trek? 
Along the trail, there are diverse options such as traditional Nepali food like aka dal bhat, momos, and western cuisines like pasta, pancakes, and fried rice.

13. Is it safe to trek in the region of Ghorepani Poon Hill
In general, yes. The ghorepani poon hill trek is safe because of the well-maintained paths and developed facilities. But, like any other, its crucial to take some measures to prevent altitude sickness and be reasonably fit.

14. How do I get to the starting point of the trek
The trek begins at Nayapul, approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive from Pokhara. You can reach there easily by booking a taxi or taking a local bus.

15. Do I require a permit for the trek
Of course, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek requires trekkers to have two specific permits:
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Permits are available in Pokhara as well as in Kathmandu before the trekking starts.

What Makes This Package Special