Hoping to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara! This site provides a detailed itinerary to experience the Himalayas of Nepal as closely as possible, along with the most accessible bird-watching spot near Pokhara and in Nepal.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Duration
5 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Maximum Altitude
3210 Meters
Group Size
Max 15 Person
Activities
Trekking, Hiking
Starts
Birethanthi
Ends
Dhampus
Best Time
March-June, September-November
Photos
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek from Pokhara ranks among the top beginner-friendly treks with a captivating view of the Annapurna Range, along with Dhaulagiri. Explore the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and its inspiring view of the Annapurna Range in under a week, complete with the latest costs and helpful itinerary. It lies within the border of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) and is in central-western Nepal, northwest of Kathmandu. Home to Danphe (Himalayan Monal), Kalij, Cuckoo, and many bird species. The Poon Hill area is the most accessible birdwatching spot in Nepal when the forest is full of rhododendron blossoms, especially in March-April.
Why choose this trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek not only offers you the scenic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri region but also a local cultural experience of the hilly region. The Ghorepani trek takes you through the beauty of Nepal’s hillside and the Himalayas with a cultural touch of the ethnic group residing around Pokhara. Poon Hill is one of the easiest accessible trekking routes from Pokhara and in Nepal. The trail and terrain are best suited for those who are trekking for the first time and fit all age groups.
If you’re limited in time and want to experience a short trek in Nepal near Pokhara, then the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can be one of your go-to options.
Is the Ghorepani Poon Hill hike for 5 days for you?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is made for those who want to experience trekking in Nepal from Pokhara in less than a week and reach the Annapurna Range as closely as possible. Though Poon Hill Trek may not give you the experience like other treks where you traverse the Himalayas or reach the base camp itself, the views and journey to Poon Hill are not like any other trek either. The route is beginner-friendly, with trails leading through lush green hills and rhododendron blossoms during spring, which makes it perfect for birds to settle and a spot for bird watching.
To do the Poon Hill Trek, it doesn’t require you to be a professional athlete, nor any form of advanced physical qualification, but a heart and spirit to travel in Nepal. If you are someone who loves adventure and enjoys walking through the rough terrain of Nepal and can walk, then this trek is for you. Terrain-wise, this trek traverses the lush green hills of Nepal, showcasing the breathtaking view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, culture, and ethnic groups of the hilly region.
When should you trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill for the best experience in terms of season and the months?
When doing a trek to the Himalayas, choosing the right time and season is crucial. Since it can affect what you see and what you experience during your stay and journey. If you were to ask, “When’s the best time to do a trek in Nepal?” it can be answered simply. Choose the peak trekking season, which is obviously from March to May or September to November. But if you want to go deeper, it all depends on what you want to gain or experience from this trip. So, to clarify, let’s break down why these months are popular for trekking in Nepal.
March to May - Pre-monsoon / spring season
- Mild to warm days make trekking pleasant.
- Forests in the upper Himalayas are filled with rhododendrons in bloom.
- Bird watching is ideal—many species can be spotted in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Mostly clear weather during early spring, offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
- Lush green hills add to the scenery and photography appeal.
- Occasional haze or clouds may occur in May, but there is still good visibility in the early season.
September to November - Post-monsoon / Peak season
- The weather becomes stable and dry after the monsoon.
- Skies are crisp and clear, perfect for mountain views.
- Recognized as the best time for trekking and traveling in Nepal.
- Coincides with major Nepali festivals:
- Dashain (Nepal’s biggest festival)
- Tihar (festival of lights)
- Great time for cultural exploration, with traditional rituals and celebrations happening across villages and towns.
If you’re someone who likes fewer crowds and wants to avoid peak trekking season, then you can check out our best monsoon trek in Nepal.
Difficulty level
Trekking difficulty in Nepal varies greatly depending on what kind of trail you choose. From a short hike near the valley to high-altitude expeditions in the Himalayas. The difficulty level is mainly influenced by altitude gained, walking duration per day, and terrain.
If Ghorepani Poon Hill is to be ranked, it can be said to be a beginner-friendly trek. Since the max altitude gain is 3193 meters above sea level. But a single cause can’t be a whole factor for ranking difficulty. What makes the Poon Hill trek suitable for beginners is its terrain and trail. The trek starts from Birethanthi and follows the Burungdi Khola till we reach Hile, and then uphill to Ulleriafter Tikhedhunga. After the uphill in Ulleri, the trail mostly follows through the green forest. The only parts where there are tiring uphills are before reaching Ulleri, the hike to Poon Hill, and before crossing Tadapani, which makes it suitable for new trekkers and all ages.
Accommodation and Food in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route
In comparison, the Poon Hill trek is more developed and facilitates a comfortable stay with a variety of food items. Though the food and beds may not be luxurious, the experience is not bad considering the rurality and availability. Let’s break down what kind of facility you may get in different lodges along the Poon Hill Trek.
The first camp in Ulleri offers a suitable stay for trekkers with an attached bathroom as an option. Most of the lodges accommodate at least 2 people in one room and offer multiple options for warm drinks and food. Ghorepani Deurali, Tadapani, and Landruk are more linear towards the teahouse style, following old architecture, unlike Ulleri, which has a guesthouse style in the majority. But the facility is somewhat similar, with an attached bathroom as an option and similar food items in a heated dining hall. So overall, you can get a satisfactory experience considering the place and development.
Highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
Poon Hill is a major attraction for its spectacular view of the Annapurna Range and the Dhaulagiri Range. Aside from the views of the Himalayas, bird watching is also famous in the Poon Hill area. Poon Hill is not only about its view of the Himalayas, but also the cultural experience you get during your stay in Gurung villages like Ghandruk. The Poon Hill trek showcases some of the best high-altitude flora with captivating scenery of Annapurna. Some of the Major attractions are:
- Panoramic view of the Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Range.
- Rich Gurung Culture of Ghandruk Village.
- A forest full of rhododendron blossoms from March to May.
- Better accommodation in comparison to other treks near Pokhara.
- One of the ideal places for bird watching.
- It fits all age groups.
- Best budget-friendly trek near Pokhara.
Trip Gallery
Itinerary
Expand allStarting at about 8 am from Pokhara (the main closest town to the Annapurna Himalaya range), we drive about 2 hours by car/jeep to Birethanti to begin the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. The road to Nayapul from Pokhara is black on top and Nayapul to Birethati is a further short drive on is dirt road. We have a lunch break at Sudame or Ramghai and we continue hiking to Ulleri (2100m), First 3 hours will be a regular easy walk and then a steep walk up to Ulleri uphill starting soon from Tikhedunga. It is said to have 3000 stone steps. Overnight stay in lodge. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
It is a bit challenging to hike up on the first day; then we walk a lush forest of rhododendrons, oak, and bamboo forests. We go to sleep early as the next day we climb up to Poon Hill summit. Overnight stay in lodge. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Before dawn we get out of our cozy sleeping bags piled high with blankets, dressed up, and walk up about a 45-minute climb to the top of Poon Hill (3210m) for a sunrise view. This is the view that the entire Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is based upon, and it’s worth every step to get there. We hike back down and have breakfast at the lodge, set off to Tadapani. Overnight stay in the lodge at Tadapani. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
We walk along a shaded forest trail, followed by terraced fields of maize and potatoes to Ghandruk. From here we have fantastic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhare. After a lunch break here. We descend down to Modi Khola and walk up to Landruk - a major settlement of the Gurung, an ethnic group of Nepal. It is a very famous Gurung village with terraces and offers excellent mountain views.
Walk from Landruk to Bheri Kharka a pleasant trail then a short uphill to Pritam Deurali and follow the ridge trail walk to Pothana which provides an excellent walk with a striking view of Annapurns. Pritam Deurali is a nice place with a stunning view of Annapurna Range then down Dhampus where our car will be waiting for you to drive back to civilization in Pokhara. Rest and relax after 5 days of hiking.
Our standard itinerary is 4 nights and 5 days hiking. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Itinerary can be perfectly customized in 4 to 6 depending on your fitness and pace.
Route Map
Altitude Chart
Still Confuse?
Download brochure or customize your trip.
Cost Details
Includes
- A registered local Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek guide.
- Accommodation: 4 nights trekking lodge on a twin shared basis.
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners during the trek.
- Shuttles from and to your hotel in Pokhara for the trekking.
- Neat and clean trekking lodge accommodation during the trek.
- Guide fee and all his/her expenses.
- Poon Hill trekking permit.
- Insurance of your guide as per state law.
- Taxes and all paperwork charges.
Excludes
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- All surface transportation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Guided sightseeing and monument entrance fees.
- All bar bills, beverages such as Coke, Fanta, and mineral water
- Personal insurance, laundry service, and trekking gear.
- Porter if you need (USD 20 per day)
- Rescue operation charge in case of emergency.
- Gratitude and tips for your guide and porter.
Add-ons & Options
Discover the beauty of Nepal with Wilderness Excursion. We have 13 years of successful operation and decades of expertise in leading treks in Nepal. To further enhance your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, we’re pleased to introduce extra services (add-ons) to make easy booking in one place for an exceptional adventure at a value-for-money trip cost.
- Private Jeep Service, USD 60: Upgrade your land transportation to a 4WD private Jeep for comfortable travel to Pokhara from the trek at an extra cost of USD 60.
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Tourist bus Kathmandu - Pokhara USD 13: Allow us to manage your tourist bus seat bookings for seamless land travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara, saving you valuable time.
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Tourist bus Pokhara - Kathmandu USD 13: Let us assist with booking your tourist bus seat for seamless land travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu, saving you valuable time.
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Kathmandu - Pokhara Flight USD 100: Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (25-minute flight which costs USD 100 per adult / per flight)
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Pokhara - Kathmandu Flight USD 100: Take a short flight of 25 minutes at an extra cost of USD 100 than a tiring 7-hour bus drive
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Porter Service at USD 100: Travel lighter, explore further. Let our porters care for your gear (up to 23 kg, shared between two), which helps you easily conquer the Poon Hil Trek.
Dates & Availability
Select Departure Dates
Aug 2025
Sep 2025
Oct 2025
Nov 2025
Dec 2025
Check our dates published to see if they match your time. We are happy to customize your tour perfectly to match your interests and needs, creating a unique travel experience just for you
Essential Information
Packing list / Preparation tips
Smart packing is the best move for a comfortable journey while trekking in Nepal. Though you may not need much gear for the Poon Hill trek, some necessary items still need to be taken. Here are some tips you may find useful while trekking in Nepal, and how you should pack.
- Pack only what is necessary or what you need.
- Layer your clothing according to what your trek demands.
- Avoid cotton clothes during the daytime or while trekking.
- Pack waterproof essentials like raincoats and rain covers.
- A down jacket during nights in camps. Especially in winter.
- Carry a 2L water bottle min. + purifier (if needed).
- Portable first aid kit.
- Sunglasses, a buff, and gloves.
- Snacks and energy bars.
- Essential personal items and sanitation needs.
These are only a few of the things that are useful when you are trekking in Nepal, but they can be helpful.
Travel Safety Information
Trekking or travelling in Nepal is mostly safe, but there are still some common precautions you can take for your safety and others. By travel safety, we not only mean things you should do, but also things you shouldn’t do, as Nepal is a diverse country and every locality has its own beliefs, which can’t be common knowledge. In such cases, do remember these points:
- First, keep your documents safe and separate. If possible, bring it with you.
- Some locals may not like their photos or videos taken, so ask for their consent.
- Save emergency contact information from local tourism information sectors.
- When participating in rituals or any form of festival, ask your tour guide if it’s possible.
- Avoid trekking alone or separate from the main group.
- Watch for altitude sickness. If any symptoms are shown, inform your guide immediately.
- Always have travel insurance.
- Respect nature and wildlife.
(These few points may seem trivial, but they can help you in many ways than you think)
What to do after the trek?
If you still have some days left on your visa and are having a dilemma about what to do after the trek, while you are in Pokhara, you can visit some of the best pubs near the lakeside if interested, or paragliding from the hillside, and do some short adventure activities with us.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek FAQs
This is short and sweet trekking tour best suit for the short time Nepal visitors, a truly lifetime experience small trip. This trek offers breath stopping mountain vista, full of birds, beautiful hamlets of alpine pastures, charming villages of Magar and Gurung people, lush rhododendron forest which fully blooms in Spring season is set just below the Annapurna Himalayan Peaks of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Known as the Fishtail Mountain as its shape is look like fishtail from west direction) towering sky high. Main feature of Poon Hill Trek are; Poon Hill Hike probably one of the finest view points on the earth, When sun comes up and touches the white mountains, Himalayan giants, Mount Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna I (8091m) along with other gorgeous peak, there gradually appear, just like magic happening in front you and you couldn't believe this at first. Besides, the journey rewards with natural beauties in your each and every footsteps.
Like other trekking in Annapurna except Annapurna Circuit this trek also begins from Pokhara and end there. Pokhara is 200km west of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Daily tourist buses run to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Local buses leave every one hour from Kathmandu. Wilderness Excursion can arrange a private car or van if you ask us. Most domestic airlines fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu every day (U$117 / flight / head). Sit on the right side to see striking view of wide range of Himalaya while flying to Pokhara. Most of people take tourist bus to Pokhara; 200km drive and takes 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic. There are normal to deluxe tourist coaches available. Green Lines Buses costs USD 25 per person with breakfast, they run every morning from/to Kathmandu.
Autumn (September - November) and spring (March – April) are recommended as the best time of the seasons to trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill. The weather is sunny and warm during the day time with breath stopping views. If you would like to avoid crowds and enjoy less crowded time with nature then you could trek in winter (Dec - Feb) And it is still warm during the day time and cold in the morning and nights. The temperature is 0 to -5 degree Celsius at Ghorepani Poon Hill during the winter However, the weather condition in Himalaya is associated with Indian Ocean. Trekking in the Summer or Monsoon seasons (June to Aug) will be affected by rain but the Summer trek could be a boon for a keen botanists.
Regarding the difficulty, this is an easy trek suitable for walking lovers who have the ability to walk for around 4 to 6 hours a day with a light day sack. Exercising and jogging regularly for a few weeks prior to the trip is good idea to increase strength and firmness. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skill is required for this trek. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, epilepsy and blood diseases should inform Wilderness Excursion before booking the trip. We also recommend that you consult your doctor(s) before the trip start.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Cost: Here we have offered USD 379.00 per person as a budget trek price on a double occupancy basis. A single supplement charge will be an extra USD 75.00. The price will be according to budget, standard and deluxe tour plans, and group sizes. Taking flights to and from Pokhara saves you time and is more comfortable than taking a tiring, long bus ride, though riding a bus reduces the trip price. We can arrange a Kathmandu-Pokhara flight that costs USD 105 per person.
The hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210m) is a short but rewarding 45 minutes to 1-hour uphill trek, best done early in the morning for sunrise.
No, Everest is not seen while on Poon Hill. Mount Everest is in the east, and Poon Hill is in the Annapurna region, which is in mid-western Nepal. Poon Hill provides breathtaking vistas of these peaks, including Mount Dhaulagiri (8167 meters), which is the world's seventh highest mountain.
Poon Hill itself is the highest point you will reach on this trek. Poon Hill lies at an altitude of 3210 meters above sea level. This is the is the destination of the early morning excursion side trip on the Ghorepani Trek.
The Poon Hill is one of best view point in Nepal, You will get unbelievable sights of white mountain ranges from Hiunchuli, past Annapurna South, to Annapurna I (8,097m/26,566ft) Gangapurna, Khangsar Kang, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, etc.
No problem; the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is easily doable around the year. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek in monsoon season is usually less crowded and calm. Chances of great mountain views, like in spring and autumn. But you can enjoy the view of the landscape, local culture, and diverse vegetation and get a chance to soak into the majesty of the of the Annapurna Himalayas if the weather permits. So in monsoon season, most time gets wet, but it is all full of green and provides an opportunity to enjoy alpine flowers in July and August.
Like in other parts of the world, tipping is quite common in Nepal as well as in the service industry. However, there is no specific amount, but it really depends on the on the giver or your perception. We advise tipping 10% of the total value of the trip.
If you are seeking the best family short trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek could be the famous soft hiking adventure in the foothills of Annapurna. It provides excellent views and is better logistically known as the “apple pie” trek. The trek is easily accessible from Pokhara, but it still provides a great experience of trekking in a kid-friendly environment.
There are no bank and ATM machines on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route. You should get cash in Pokhara before leaving for the trek. People may accept foreign currency but give you a low rate as they will have to walk all the way to Pokhara to get exchanged, so carry NPR.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a well-established short trekking route in lower Annapurna. There are lodges with proper bedding, so carrying a sleeping bag on this trek is not necessary anymore. Lodges provide quilts and duvets. However, some people prefer their own sleeping bag, so they bring it.
Generally, altitude sickness develops above 3000 meters. You will reach Poon Hill at the al the elevation of 3210 meters for a short time and get back to lower altitude so there is almost no risk of altitude sickness. Hardly any people may feel unwell because of altitude.
What Our Clients are Saying?
based on 6 reviews
4 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Exceptional Trekking Experience with a Supportive Guide!"
I recently completed a 4-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with an outstanding team—super friendly staff from Wilderness Excursion, fair pricing without hidden cost, and a meticulously planned itinerary. My guide, Yuhan, made the...
Lily S.- Australia
May 24, 20255 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Yuhan
An Unforgettable Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Yuhan – Highly Recommended!
My Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Yuhan as my guide was an incredible experience. From start to finish, he was professional, attentive, and genuinely caring, ensuring every moment was enjoyable....
Enrique Mantas- Spain
April 27, 2025Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 4 Days
I just completed Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. My interaction with Wilderness Excursions was excellent. I'm over 60 and would like to go on a journey in Annapurna for low altitude trek. I had to go it...
Bill Wolf Tinsman- United States
March 01, 2025Adventures Tailored for You
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