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18Years of Experience
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Karnali Rafting and AdventureKarnali Rafting
& Adventure
"The only authorised rafting and angling company of Nepal"

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

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  • Including Domestic Round Air Fare
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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Days
9
  • Best price guaranteed
  • Including Domestic Round Air Fare
  • Book Now, Pay Later
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Max. Elevation
3210 m / 10531 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Grading
3
Transportation
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Best Season
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accomodation
Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Lodge / Tea House during the trek
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara and all meals during the trek

Highlights

  • Stunning sunrise view from Poon Hill over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Trek through lush rhododendron and oak forests
  • Visit traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk
  • Experience rich local culture and hospitality in teahouses
  • Spectacular panoramic mountain vistas without high altitude challenges
  • Scenic waterfalls, terraced fields, and diverse flora and fauna

Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most accessible, scenic, and rewarding short treks. Situated in the famed Annapurna region, this trek is ideal for beginners, families, and those looking for a cultural and natural experience without the physical strain of higher altitude trekking. It offers panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail - 6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167m), making it a photographer's paradise.

Organized by Karnali Rafting and Adventure, this 9-day itinerary starts in Kathmandu, taking travelers through the lakeside city of Pokhara, into traditional villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. The highlight is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), a famous viewpoint known for its breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek also gives you a deep insight into the Gurung and Magar cultures, with cozy teahouse stays and interactions with local villagers.

Key Highlights:
  • Perfect short trek (5-6 days of walking)
  • Spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill
  • Cultural immersion in Gurung and Magar villages
  • Lush forests of rhododendron and oak
  • Organized with expert guidance by Karnali Rafting and Adventure
Best Season for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Choosing the right time to trek is crucial for the best experience on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trail. The ideal seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions—clear skies, pleasant daytime temperatures, and stunning visibility of the Himalayan peaks.

In spring, the forests along the trail burst into color as rhododendrons bloom in vibrant reds, pinks, and whites. It’s a beautiful time for nature lovers and photographers. In autumn, post-monsoon clarity ensures stable weather and some of the best mountain views, making it the peak trekking season.

Winter (December to February) is also possible for trekking, especially since the maximum elevation is relatively low at 3,210m. However, it can get cold, and higher sections like Ghorepani and Poon Hill may experience snow. Summer/monsoon (June to August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall, leeches, and slippery trails, although it’s quieter for those seeking solitude.

Best Months:
  • March to May (Spring) – Flowers, mild weather, clear views
  • September to November (Autumn) – Best visibility, dry and stable
  • December to February (Winter) – Quieter trails, potential snow
  • June to August (Monsoon) – Rainy and less ideal for trekking
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Difficulty and Permits
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for a wide range of trekkers including first-timers, families, and older travelers. The daily walking duration ranges from 4 to 6 hours, with well-marked trails and gradual ascents. The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210m, which is not high enough to cause serious altitude sickness, but still offers breathtaking mountain views.

While physical fitness helps, no technical climbing skills are required. The most challenging part of the trek is the stone staircase from Nayapul to Ulleri, which involves several hundred steep steps. However, with a good pace and guidance from the team at Karnali Rafting and Adventure, most people complete the trek comfortably.

Required Permits:
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 per person for foreigners
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – NPR 2,000 for individual trekkers or 1,000 if through an agency

Both permits are arranged by Karnali Rafting and Adventure as part of their trek package, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Trekking Overview:
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Max Elevation: 3,210 meters
  • No technical skills needed
  • Permits: ACAP and TIMS (included in trek package)
Food and Accommodation for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Accommodation along the Ghorepani Poon Hill route is primarily in teahouses, small lodges run by local families. These provide a cozy and culturally immersive experience. While basic, they are clean and comfortable, offering twin-sharing rooms with shared bathrooms. Some lodges offer hot showers and charging points for an extra fee.

Meals are served in the teahouse dining rooms and feature a variety of local and international dishes. The staple is Dal Bhat (lentils, rice, vegetables), which is nutritious and refilled at no extra cost. Other options include noodles, fried rice, momos, pasta, pancakes, eggs, and soups. Vegetarian meals are widely available, and the food is usually freshly prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures that the accommodations they choose maintain good hygiene standards and are known for their hospitality. Their guides often help you order food, manage expectations with kitchen delays, and recommend what’s freshest and safest to eat.

Food & Stay Summary:
  • Accommodation: Simple teahouses/lodges
  • Meals: Local (Dal Bhat), Western, Vegetarian options
  • Facilities: Shared toilets, limited Wi-Fi, paid hot showers
  • Dining: Cozy communal spaces with mountain views
Why Choose Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a short, scenic, and culturally rich Himalayan trekking experience. It doesn’t demand extensive physical preparation or long days at high altitude, yet it rewards trekkers with iconic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, charming villages, and the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.

What makes it especially appealing is the trek’s accessibility from Pokhara, making it easy to fit into a 7–10 day Nepal itinerary. Unlike remote treks, this one provides the balance of natural beauty and comfort, with relatively better infrastructure. The forests, waterfalls, terraced farms, and rhododendron blooms in spring add immense scenic value.

Choosing Karnali Rafting and Adventure enhances the experience with their experienced local guides, personalized service, and excellent logistics management. They offer not just guided trekking but also cultural insights, eco-friendly practices, and safety-first approach, ensuring a meaningful and enjoyable journey for every traveler.

Why Trek This Route?
  • Short but rewarding Himalayan trek
  • Spectacular mountain and sunrise views
  • Cultural exposure to Magar and Gurung life
  • Less risk of altitude sickness
  • Well-managed trek with Karnali Rafting and Adventure

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Karnali Rafting and Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Once you're checked in and refreshed, there will be a pre-trek briefing where you'll meet your guide and fellow trekkers. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax. This is a great time to make any last-minute purchases and soak in the cultural energy of Nepal’s bustling capital.

After an early breakfast, we begin our scenic drive to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lake city. The journey takes around 6-8 hours depending on road conditions and offers stunning views of rivers, terraced fields, and rural villages along the Prithvi Highway. Once we arrive in Pokhara, you’ll check in to your hotel near the serene Phewa Lake. The evening is free to stroll along the lakeside, enjoy a boat ride, or savor delicious food at one of the many local restaurants. Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures all logistics are handled smoothly so you can enjoy the ride and the city.

Today marks the beginning of your trek. After breakfast, we drive for about 1.5 hours from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of our trek. From here, we begin walking along a scenic trail that follows the Modi Khola river, passing through Birethanti and small villages with terraced farmlands. The trail gradually ascends, and we climb a series of stone steps—over 3,000 of them—before reaching Ulleri. This charming Magar village at 2,050 meters offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South and the surrounding landscape. The trek today is a bit challenging, but your guide from Karnali Rafting and Adventure will set a comfortable pace.

After a hearty breakfast in Ulleri, we continue our uphill journey through lush rhododendron and oak forests. The trail becomes more gradual and peaceful as we gain altitude, with occasional breaks offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Ghorepani, located at 2,675 meters, is a picturesque village that serves as a major stopover for trekkers in this region. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to rest and explore the area. The village is especially lively during trekking season and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures your accommodation here is comfortable and perfectly situated for the next day's hike.

We start the day early with a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill, a renowned viewpoint at 3,180 meters. From here, you'll witness one of the most stunning sunrises over the Himalayas, with panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). After soaking in the scenery and capturing unforgettable photos, we descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. The trek then continues through dense forests and rolling hills, crossing streams and ridge trails before reaching Tadapani. This tranquil village offers spectacular sunset views and is surrounded by thick woodland, making it a peaceful stop after a fulfilling day. Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures your day is well-paced and rewarding.

Today's trek is relatively shorter and easier, as we descend through rhododendron forests and stone pathways to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk. Known for its traditional houses and cultural richness, Ghandruk offers close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. You’ll have time in the afternoon to explore the village, visit the local museum, and learn about the lifestyle and heritage of the Gurung people. Ghandruk is also famous for its hospitality, and the evening can be spent interacting with locals or simply enjoying the peaceful mountain surroundings. Karnali Rafting and Adventure makes sure this cultural experience is both informative and enjoyable.

After breakfast, we begin our final descent from Ghandruk to Nayapul. The trail follows a gradual downhill path through terraced fields and river valleys, offering one last chance to take in the rural beauty of the Annapurna region. Once we reach Nayapul, a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer us back to Pokhara. After checking into the hotel, you can spend the evening relaxing by the lake or enjoying some well-deserved comfort in town. Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures that your return is smooth and that your accommodation in Pokhara is ready and relaxing.

We leave Pokhara after breakfast and begin the scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The journey offers a final chance to reflect on the incredible trek as we follow the river valleys and mountain views along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for last-minute shopping, sightseeing, or simply resting. Karnali Rafting and Adventure can also arrange cultural activities or farewell dinners upon request, making your final evening in Nepal memorable.

Today marks the end of your incredible journey with Karnali Rafting and Adventure. Depending on your flight schedule, a company representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. We hope the memories of the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, the mountain landscapes, and the cultural experiences stay with you forever. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal for more adventures in the future.

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Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and return transportation by private vehicle
  • Trekking permits and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide and porters
  • Accommodation in hotels/lodges during trek and in cities
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Welcome and farewell dinners
  • First aid kit and emergency support

Doesn't Include

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except mentioned)
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Travel insurance including evacuation coverage
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and porters
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, and drinks
  • Any additional activities or side trips not mentioned in itinerary

Trip Info

Why Book with Us?
  • Excellent customer service. Our travel experts are ready to help you 24/7.
  • Best price guaranteed.
  • No credit card or booking fees.
  • 100% financial protection.
  • Environmentally-friendly tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally clear, with stunning mountain views and comfortable temperatures for trekking. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and vibrant landscapes, while autumn provides crisp air and clear skies. Karnali Rafting and Adventure schedules treks during optimal seasons to ensure the best trekking experience and safety for all participants.

Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal and is considered ideal for beginners and family trekkers. With moderate altitude gain and well-maintained trails, it doesn’t require prior trekking experience. Daily hiking durations range from 4 to 7 hours. Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures that all participants are well-acclimatized and supported by professional guides, making it a safe and enjoyable introduction to trekking in the Himalayas.

During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, trekkers stay in local teahouses and lodges, which offer basic but comfortable amenities like clean rooms, warm blankets, and hearty meals. While facilities may vary by location, most teahouses provide private rooms and shared bathrooms. Hot showers and Wi-Fi may be available at some places for an extra fee. Karnali Rafting and Adventure selects the best available accommodations en route to ensure comfort and a genuine Nepali cultural experience.

While the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered moderate, a basic level of physical fitness is recommended. You’ll be trekking at altitudes up to 3,180 meters, often uphill for several hours a day. If you can comfortably walk for 4–6 hours a day with some steep climbs, you should do fine. Karnali Rafting and Adventure also allows for a gradual ascent and includes rest points, ensuring a manageable pace for everyone.

Yes, all necessary permits are included when booking through Karnali Rafting and Adventure. You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card for the trek. Our team arranges these in advance and ensures that all documentation is handled smoothly, saving you time and hassle before your trek begins.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 3,180 meters at Poon Hill, which is relatively moderate. While the risk of altitude sickness is low, it's still possible. Karnali Rafting and Adventure incorporates proper acclimatization and a gradual ascent schedule to minimize any risk. Our experienced guides are trained to recognize symptoms early and will adjust the pace or route if necessary to ensure your safety.

Our comprehensive package includes airport transfers, accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, all transportation between cities and trek points, necessary permits, experienced guides and porters, all meals during the trek, and accommodation in teahouses. We also provide pre-trek briefings and ensure 24/7 support during your journey. The only things not included are personal expenses, tips, travel insurance, and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara outside the trek.

The full program is 9 days, including arrival and departure. The actual trek spans 5 days, starting from Nayapul and going through Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk before returning to Pokhara. Each day involves around 4–7 hours of trekking through forests, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes. Karnali Rafting and Adventure provides a carefully designed itinerary to balance activity with rest, offering the best cultural and natural highlights along the way.

Teahouses along the route offer a variety of Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and continental dishes. The most common and energy-packed meal is the traditional Dal Bhat (lentils and rice), which is served with seasonal vegetables and sometimes meat. You can also find noodles, pasta, pancakes, eggs, and soups. Karnali Rafting and Adventure ensures food safety and encourages trekkers to eat well and stay hydrated throughout the trek to maintain energy levels.

Karnali Rafting and Adventure offers a personalized, safe, and enriching trekking experience backed by years of local expertise. We focus on ethical tourism, fair porter treatment, and community engagement. Our guides are experienced, English-speaking, and fully trained in first aid and high-altitude safety. With top-notch logistics, customer service, and a deep passion for the Himalayas, we ensure your trek is memorable, authentic, and hassle-free from arrival to departure.

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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal