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Magnificent view from Poon Hill of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
Annapurna Mountain Region View From Poon Hill
Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek
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Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration5 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeEasy
i
Maximum Altitude3,210 m
Group SizeMin. 2 Pax
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrekking.
Best TimeMarch to April and September to December

If you love beautiful villages and heartwarming picture book scenery, then you will love the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek. It is a moderate, beginner-friendly trek in Nepal that explores the remote trails of the lower Annapurna region.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek is also a lovely family holiday option where adventure and experience go hand in hand. Spend nights in comfortable and clean lodges along the trail and get a close glimpse of the lifestyle of the locals.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek, which lasts 5 days, starts and ends in Pokhara. You can also customize the itinerary and include arrivals and departures from Kathmandu. It adds 3 to 4 days more to the itinerary. As per the changes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek cost also changes.

On the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek, you will get close to some of the highest mountains in the world without going on a long, strenuous journey. Follow rice paddies, rhododendron forests, and lush Himalayan foothills during the Ghorepani Ghandruk trekking.

Highlights

  • Get to see heartwarming picture book scenery on this trek
  • Explore beautiful Himalayan villages and experience the mountain lifestyle
  • A fantastic short 5-day trek from Pokhara
  • Trek through dense rhododendron forests and rice paddies
  • Cross thrilling suspension bridges on the way and come across beautiful waterfalls
  • Spend nights in picturesque villages and have a glimpse into the lifestyle of the villagers
  • Witness stunning views of mountains like Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, etc
  • See a gorgeous sunrise from Poon Hill

What to expect during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek?

Our 5-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek starts with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. You will begin trekking from here, following winding, lush hills and rivers. The trail goes past villages like Sudame,Hile, and Tikhedhunga. The final ascent of the day involves climbing a series of stone stairs to Ulleri, where you will spend the first night.

The trail then continues from Ulleri to Ghorepani village via lush rhododendron forests. Meet with different Nepali ethnic groups and have memorable interactions with them along the way. Gurungs and Magarsare the two major ethnic groups on this trek. See their lifestyle and practices closely.

The following day, hike to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210 m/10,531 ft) to see a stunning sunrise along with a fantastic stretching panorama of the western Himalayan mountains. On the same day, you will descend to Tadapani village for the night. From Tadapani, you will reach Ghandruk in 5 to 6 hours of walking.

Ghandruk is another beautiful village and one of the main attractions of this 5-day trek. Here, you will also visit the Gurkha Museum and enjoy a lovely time. The trek ends in Ghandruk, and you will drive to Pokhara in a local jeep. Throughout the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek with Ghandruk, you will witness diverse landscapes.

Mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m/22,703 ft), and many others are seen on this trek route. You will get to capture true hillside beauty.

Who can do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek in 5 days?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek involves doable uphill and downhill trails. There is no age restriction or any specific requirement to join this trek. Trekkers only have to be physically fit to walk 5 to 6 hours a day. It is one of the best introductory treks in Nepal. You can do it as a beginner trekker without any worry.

You can do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek with your friends and family. It is also a fantastic short trek option for students and a corporate gateway. You can customize the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek itinerary to further meet your requirements and extend it to other places in the Annapurna region.

What preparation is required for this trek?

Before starting the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek, go on a regular walk. Do some day hikes and exercise. If you are not an active individual, you may feel the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is a bit difficult because of the long walking. So, improve your stamina and strength before the trek begins.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek packing

Follow the below list during Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek packing. Buy the gear or rent them as per your wish. You can rent expensive gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara for a very cheap price.

  • Clothes: Fleece jacket, down jacket, windbreaker, underwear, thermal layer, trekking t-shirts and pants, sun hat, beanie, gloves, scarf, socks, raincoat, trekking boots, hiking shoes/casual slippers, dry towel, etc
  • Trek gear: trekking pole, daypack, duffel bag, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, sleeping bag, etc
  • Toiletries and personal first aid kit: SPF, lip balm, sanitizer, wet wipes, moisturizer, toilet paper, soap, shampoo, toothbrush & paste, deodorant, antifungal cream, insect repellent, general medications, bandage and spray for sprained joint, band-aid, cotton, ORS or electoral powder, etc
  • Miscellaneous: Adapter, spare batteries, camera, charger, power bank, torch, snacks, map, permits, passport, visa, travel insurance document, Nepali money, etc

Extend the trek to Annapurna Base Camp, Khopra Danda, or Mardi Himal

The Annapurna region has many trekking routes, and the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is one of them. It is a short trek, but you can also extend the journey to Annapurna Base Camp, Khopra Danda, or Mardi Himal as you wish.

Choose the destination as per your fitness level and inform our guide. We will share the cost with you and make the necessary arrangements right away for you to continue your trek.

Why trek to Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages with us?

We have supported hundreds of tourists in Nepal during their tour, trekking, and climbing trips. Our team works with you closely to organize the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek. You can share your requirements with us freely and tailor-make the journey.

Similarly, you will get the best Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek cost with us. Our expertise, knowledge, and dedicated team ensure a hassle-free trekking adventure in Nepal. You can also make last-minute bookings with us.

Our ethics, values, and eco-friendly, sustainable trips in the Himalayas allow you to travel wisely. You will be contributing to the local communities as we work directly with them. We promise a safe trekking venture in the Himalayas in Nepal.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
01Day

Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles

Trek distance: 7 km/4.34 miles

Duration: 8 hours driving and 3/4 hours of trekking

Your adventure starts with a scenic ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara, following winding lush hills and rivers. The ride will be comfortable and offer views of waterfalls, hills, and peaks. From Pokhara, you will drive for another hour to reach Nayapul. It is the starting point of the trek.

Follow your guide and gradually trek, enjoying forests, rivers, and mountain views on the way. You will reach Birethanti, and from here, ascend via terraced fields. The trail goes past settlements like Sudame and Hile. From Tikhedhung, you will ascend to Ulleri by climbing a long stone staircase.

Max. Altitude: 1,960 m/5,430 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
02Day

Trek distance: 11 km/6 miles

Duration: 3/4 hours

Altitude: 2,860 m/9,385 ft

Continue trekking from Ulleri via lush rhododendron forests. The trail ascends to the famous Ghorepani village, which is mostly inhabited by the Gurung community. Enjoy the serenity and walk via a lovely forested route. On this day, you will get to see mountain views of Fishtail, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Dhampus Peak, Hiunchuli, etc.

Max. Altitude: 2,860 m/9,385 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
03Day

Distance: 10 km/6.2 miles

Altitude: 3,210 m/10,531 ft

Duration: 6 hours

Before the sunrises, hike to Poon Hill viewpoint. The hiking route follows a well-marked trail surrounded by rhododendron trees. From Poon Hill, you will see a stunning sunrise along with a fantastic stretching panorama of the western Himalayan mountains. The scenery is wonderful.

After the hike, return to Ghorepani village and begin descending via dense forests. The trail soon starts to climb and passes by a few steep sections to Tadapani village. Today's highlight is the surreal mountain views of Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Annpurna, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and many more.

Max. Altitude: 3,210 m/10,531 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
04Day

Distance: 9.5 km/6 miles

Altitude: 3,210 m/10,531 ft

Duration: 5–6 hours

You will trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk, another beautiful and popular village in the lower Annapurna region. This village is inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities. Here, you will also visit the museum. Most of the families have Gurkha soldiers in this village.

From Tadapani, you will walk downhill through rhododendron forests. On the way, you will cross some streams and rivers. Pass by small settlements and meet other fellow trekkers. Your time in Ghandruk village will make you reflect on your life and let you enjoy a peaceful time.

Max. Altitude: 3,210 m/10,531 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
05Day

Distance: 32 km/20 miles

Altitude: 822 m/2697 ft

Duration: 3 hours

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast. After that, you will drive to Pokhara, enjoying the countryside and mountain views. The guide will drop you at your hotel. We have not planned anything for the rest of the day. Rest and explore your surroundings. In the late evening, we may catch up for a farewell dinner as you wish.

Max. Altitude: 822 m/2697 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and farewell dinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Route Map
Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek Map, Trek Route, Variation
Cost Details
Included
  • Private land transport from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • Bothway private transportation (Pkr-Nayapu-Pkr). 
  • Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek.
  • 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek.
  • Trekking permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project entry permit) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • A professional English-speaking and experienced trekking guide.
  • All applicable taxes, service charges or fees.
  • One cultural show and farewell dinner.
  • Trip Completion Certificate.
  • First Aid Kit.            
Excluded
  • International Flights.
  • Beverage (cold drinks, bottled mineral water, tea/coffee, etc.).
  • Personal nature expenses (extra meals, battery charging fees, photography charges, etc.).
  • Tips.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Costs raised by conditions that are not under our control such as landslides, weather conditions, political unrest, illness, etc.
Dates & Availability

Regulus Nepal ensures the security, contentment, and safety of our valued clients. Our top priority is keeping you secure. Here are a few methods by which we protect your safety.

  • We have all the tools, supplies, and first aid kits we need.
  • Our trip leaders have received in-depth first-aid training.
  • Our trek leaders are fully authorized to halt the journey or continue if someone becomes ill.
  • In an emergency, we'll dispatch a helicopter for evacuation (insurance-covered).
  • The entire group will trek together.

Below is our trek cancellation/refund policy:

  • If we have to cancel the trek, we will return the money after deducting the expenses already incurred (hotel reservations, tea house reservations, transportation, permits, etc.).
  • The cancellation charge depends on the time you cancel the trek. The closer you cancel the trek to the day it is supposed to start, the higher the cancellation charge will be.
  • We wait 48 hours after the trip starts for guests to contact us if they do not join. After that, we assume the trip is canceled, and we, Regulus, will not refund the sum you had deposited.
Additional Info

Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek permit and fee

For the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and TIMS Card are needed. Both these permit fees are included in the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek cost. The fee is nonrefundable and non-transferable.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 2000 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for other countries: NPR 3000 per person
  • TIMS Card for SAARC nationals: NPR 600 per person
  • TIMS Card for other countries: NPR 1000 per person

Guide and porter during the trek

A certified mountain leader and a porter are in charge of guiding the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek. You will trek with them. Our on-field crew is friendly, experienced, and can communicate in English. They will make the journey comfortable and safe for you. If you have any questions, feel free to ask them.

The guide will describe to you the villages, mountains, and locals. You will learn a lot. Moreover, the long walking hours also become less boring if you are traveling with a guide. Likewise, porters play a huge role in your trekking experience. You do not have to carry a heavy load, which allows you to travel freely.

What is the best time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek?

The best time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is the spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November). These months are top trekking times because of favorable weather and climate. Trekkers get to see a wide range of vegetation, and the landscapes are also lush and thriving.

Travel insurance for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek

Trekking in the Himalayas requires travel insurance, regardless of the difficulty level. The travel insurance must cover emergency air evacuation and medical bills. Even if the chances of using travel insurance during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trekking are rare, it is recommended for your safety.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek difficulty and altitude sickness

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek difficulty is moderate. On this trek, you will explore the lush forests and trek on rugged terrain. The trail is not that steep, so anyone can do this trek. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek involves 5 to 6 hours of daily walking, so the participants must be able to trek this long.

Unlike most of the trekking packages in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek does not see high altitude. So, altitude sickness risk is very low on this trek. The gradual rise in elevation also helps trekkers acclimatize without taking a rest day.

Listen to your body and be aware of symptoms like headache, insomnia, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, nausea, etc. You have to take first aid if these symptoms surface. Keep yourself hydrated and have good food. Likewise, maintain your pace.

Accommodation and meals during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trekking

The accommodation during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is a lodge. You will have meals in the lodges as well. The package cost includes twin-shared rooms, so if you need a single room, let us know in advance. You have to pay additional money for single rooms.

The rooms will be simple and clean. Attached washrooms are not available everywhere, so be ready to use common washrooms. Make sure to pack all the toiletries, including soap, toilet paper, etc. Some trekkers also prefer to carry sleeping bags for extra comfort.

The lodges offer a good variety of food. You will get three meals a day in the package cost and can buy additional snacks and beverages on your own. Carry your favorite snacks and protein bars to munch on while trekking. If you have any allergies, let us know in advance.

FAQs

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is moderate. It is a beginner-friendly trekking package in Nepal that does not require strong fitness or previous trekking experience. The trek is not easy/leisurely but can be done by anyone with decent fitness.

It depends on you and how much time you want to spend in the mountains. If you are in Pokhara, you can hike to Poon Hill and return in 3-4 days. Likewise, you also have an option to join a full package that goes from 7 to 10 days.

The highest point during the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is 3,210 meters (10,531 ft). Likewise, Ghorepani village is situated at 2,860 meters (9,385 ft), and Ghandruk is situated at 1,950 meters (6,397 ft).

You start the Ghandruk to Poon Hill trek from Pokhara. The trail is Nayapul. You can reach here in around an hour's drive from Pokhara. You have two options- either trek to Ghorepani/Poon Hill first and then to Ghandurk or vice versa.

Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is worth it. If you are looking for a satisfying short trip in nature and also want to enjoy stunning mountain views, then the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is one of the best treks in Nepal.

We recommend bringing a sleeping bag on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek for extra comfort and warmth. However, this trek is not that high, and lodges provide blankets. It is up to you whether you want to carry a sleeping bag or not. You can also carry a pillowcase.

No, you cannot do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek alone. Independent trekking in the Annapurna and Langtang regions was banned in Nepal from April 1st, 2023.

First of all, to hike to Poon Hill and return in 2 days, you have to be super fit and be available in Pokhara. If you can walk 8 to 9 hours a day, you may do it.

No, you cannot go to Poon Hill or Ghorepani by car. There are no roadways to these places. However, you can go to Ghandruk by car. The ride will be bumpy, though.

No, you do not get to see Mount Everest view from Poon Hill. Mount Everest is located on the eastern side of Nepal, whereas Poon Hill is on the western side of the country.

The Annapurna Circuit and Poon Hill are two famous but very different trekking routes in the Annapurna region. These two trekkers are entirely opposite of each other. Annapurna Circuit trek is very challenging, long, and sees high altitude. Whereas Poon Hill is short and moderate.

From Pokhara, you will drive to Nayapul, which takes approximately one hour. From here, Ghandruk is situated 11 kilometers away and requires around 5 hours of hiking.

Ghandruk and Ghorepani are two beautiful villages in the lower Annapurna region. These villagers are home to the Magar and Gurung communities. The villages are famous for their beauty, mountain views, and serenity.

Yes, you can do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek with your kid. It is one of the kids-friendly trekking routes in Nepal with low altitude rise and well-marked tracks.

The accommodation, food, and drinking water facilities are great along the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trail. You will get safe and comfortable places to spend the night, a variety of food options, and boiled drinking water.

Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is safe for solo female trekkers. The trail is quite bustling and well-marked. Likewise, you will travel with an experienced and trustworthy mountain guide and a porter. The locals are friendly, kind, and welcoming.

What our Clients Say?
Recommended on:
Emily Harper
04 Apr, 2024
My best experience of my life

My trip to Nepal in Ghorepani  Poon hill Ghandruk trek was so memorable for me. I traveled to Nepal with my husband for the trek in the summer which became one of the most unforgettable trip for us. I was pleased with the wonderful mountain ranges of Annapurna. The services...

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Emily Harper
New Zealand
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