Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 5 Days

159 Reviews in Tripadvisor
Recommended by 99% of Travelers
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

From the gateway to Annapurna, Poon Hill lies in the Northwest of Pokhara and in the Central part of Nepal. Globally known for its unparalleled view of the Annapurna Range, including other prominent peaks, and the cultural beauty of the indigenous people of the hills. The 5-Day Poon Hills trek offers a stunning view of the Himalayas with a blend of natural and cultural scenery.

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. It lies within the border of 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 Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?

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.

 

Who is this trek for?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek offers a stunning blend of natural and cultural beauty from the majestic mountains, which can’t be contained in human eyes, to centuries-old traditions and cultures of the Gurung people. Primarily known for its view of the Annapurna Range, it is also referred to as the best bird-watching spot in the Annapurna Region. The trek is for those seeking a short and quiet escape from city noises and indulging themselves in the calmness of nature.

The trails are also beginner-friendly, making it possible for all age groups and every able-bodied person. With the maximum elevation of 3210M above sea level, thetrails are mostly flat with uphills in 3 parts: Ulleri, hike to Poon Hill, and towards Tadapani.

To sum it up, the Poon Hill Trek is a go-to option for people of all ages and trek experience. From starters to professionals, Poon Hill serves as a sanctuary to every trekker who is looking for a short retreat and a hideaway from the chaos of the city and everyday life.

Best time to do Poon Hill Trek

When embarking on a trek to the Himalayas, selecting 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. Choose the peak trekking season, which is obviously from March to May or September to November. But if 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.

Spring season (March-May) – Pre-monsoon / Blooming 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.

Autumn season (September to November) – Post-Monsoon / Peak season

  • 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 our best monsoon trek in Nepaloptions.

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 as 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 Hilltrek 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 part where 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 & Food in Poon Hill

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

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. Poon Hill trek showcases some of the best flora of high altitude 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 best places for Bird Watching.
  • It fits all age groups.
  • Best budget-friendly trek near Pokhara.
Itinerary
Expand all

Starting 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 Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek standard itinerary is 4 nights and 5 days of hiking. We can tailor the itinerary perfectly for 4 to 6 days, depending on your fitness level and available time. Contact the expert trip planner at Wilderness Excursion for a customized trip if you would like to create a new one for your best trekking experience in Annapurna, Nepal. 

Route Map
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Map
Altitude Chart
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Altitude Chart
Still Confuse?
Download brochure or customize your trip.
Cost Details
Includes
  • A registered local 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.
  • 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. 

  • 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. 

  • Kathmandu -  Pokhara Flight USD 100: Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (25-minute flight which costs USD 100 per adult / per flight)

  • 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

  • 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
Oct 2025
Nov 2025
Dec 2025
Departure Date
Starts: Oct 11, 2025Ends: Oct 15, 2025
Price
US$345
US$410
Status
Guaranteed
Departure Date
Starts: Oct 13, 2025Ends: Oct 17, 2025
Price
US$345
US$410
Status
Guaranteed
Departure Date
Starts: Oct 18, 2025Ends: Oct 22, 2025
Price
US$345
US$410
Status
Guaranteed
Departure Date
Starts: Oct 20, 2025Ends: Oct 24, 2025
Price
US$345
US$410
Status
Guaranteed
Departure Date
Starts: Oct 25, 2025Ends: Oct 29, 2025
Price
US$345
US$410
Status
Guaranteed
Departure Date
Starts: Oct 27, 2025Ends: Oct 31, 2025
Price
US$345
US$410
Status
Guaranteed

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 but still some necessary items need to be taken. Here are some tips you may find useful while trekking in Nepal, and how you should pack.

  • Pack only necessary or what you need.
  • Layer your clothing or to what your trek demands.
  • Avoid cotton clothes during the daytime or while trekking.
  • Pack waterproof essentials like raincoats and rain covers.
  • Down jacket during nights in camps. Especially in winter.
  • Carry a 2L water bottle min + purifier (if needed).
  • Portable first aid kit.
  • Sunglasses, 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.

Permits and Entry

The poon Hill trek falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area, thus trekkers are required to take Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP) from the Nepal Tourism Board. The checkpoint for the Poon Hill trek is in Birethanthi, the starting point and ending point of the trek.

 

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 paraglidingfrom the hillside, and do some short adventure activitieswith us.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 5 Days 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: Our price published online - USD 345.00 per person as a budget trek price on a double occupancy basis. A single supplement charge will be an extra USD 50.00. 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 100 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 destination of the early morning excursion side trip on the Ghorepani Poon Hill 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 trekking trip in the monsoon season is usually less crowded and calmer. 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 in the majesty of the Annapurna Himalayas if the weather permits. So in the monsoon season, most time gets wet, but it is all full of green and provides an opportunity to enjoy summer wild 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 giver or your perception. We advise tipping 10% of the total value of the trip while doing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

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.

Altitude sickness generally develops above 3,000 meters. Since Poon Hill is at a height of 3,210 meters above sea level, and you will only be there for a morning hike for a short time before descending to a lower altitude at Ghorepani (2,850 m), where you will sleep - the highest place you spend the night, the risk is minimal. Very few people may experience mild discomfort due to the altitude, as per our experience at Wilderness Excursion.

They’re not different treks — just different names for the same or slightly varied itineraries, with Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek being the more complete and commonly used name

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...

read more +
Lily S.
Lily S.- Australia
May 24, 2025
5 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....

read more +
Enrique Mantas
Enrique Mantas- Spain
April 27, 2025
Ghorepani 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...

read more +
Bill Wolf Tinsman
Bill Wolf Tinsman- United States
March 01, 2025
Adventures Tailored for You
Nepal mountain flight
1 Days
20
Everest Mountain flight from Kathmandu
Price From
US$250US$260
3 reviews
Traveler's choice
Mardi Himal Trek in 2019
9 Days
15
Mardi Himal Trek - 7 Days
Price From
US$599US$649
5 reviews
Traveler's Choice
A King Fisher Bird in Chitwan
3 Days
12
2 Nights 3 Days Chitwan Tour Package
Price From
US$179US$249
6 reviews
Need Help? Call Us+977 9851042153