Ghorepani Poon-Hill
- Destination: Kaski, Nepal
- Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
- Max Altitude: 3,210m
- Best Season: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November)
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a captivating journey in Nepal’s Annapurna region, offering an accessible yet unforgettable adventure. Beginning in Nayapul, the trek takes through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and picturesque villages like Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani. The highlight of the trek is the early morning ascent to Poon Hill, witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. As the golden rays of the sun illuminate the snow-capped peaks, the panoramic view leaves a lasting impression, making the hike well worth the effort.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trek provides rich cultural experiences, particularly in the villages of Ghorepani and Ghandruk. These villages are home to the Gurung and Magar communities, known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. In Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung settlements, traditional lifestyles, explore an old Gurung museum and engage with the local people, adding depth to your journey. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect blend of adventure and cultural exploration, offering a profound connection to the essence of Nepal’s mountains and people.
- Witness a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, with peaks glowing in golden light.
- Trek through vibrant, blooming rhododendron forests, especially colorful in spring.
- Explore traditional villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk, experiencing the rich Gurung and Magar cultures.
- Engage with local communities and visit the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk for cultural insights.
- Enjoy a relatively easy, well-maintained trek that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
- Take in breathtaking views of iconic Himalayan peaks like Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Machapuchare (Fishtail).
DAY 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m/4593ft).
DAY 2: Fly to Pokhara (822m/2696ft) and drive to Tikhedhunga (1480m/4855ft)
DAY 3: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,874m/9429ft).
DAY 4: Early morning hike to Poon-hill (3,210m/10,531ft) from Ghorepani and trek to Tadapani (2,700m/8858ft)
DAY 5: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,950m/6397ft).
DAY 6: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara (822m/2696ft).
DAY 7: Sightseeing in Pokhara
DAY 8: Fly/Drive to Kathmandu
DAY 9: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
DAY 10: Final Departure
DAY 1: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a Manram Voyages representative who will assist with your transfer to your hotel. The bustling capital city of Nepal offers a mix of rich culture and modern amenities. Warm welcome and check-in at the hotel. Our representative will meet in the evening to discuss the trip in detail.
*Note* Airport to Hotel drive time: 15- 30 minutes. Overnight at hotel. Sleeping Elevation: 1400m/4593ft.
DAY 2: Fly to Pokhara and Drive to Tikhedhunga. – B.L.D
After breakfast take a short but scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas, including glimpses of the majestic peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to a vehicle for a drive to Tikhedhunga which takes about two hours and meanders through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields, lush hills, and charming rivers. Tikhedhunga is a quaint village and serves as the gateway to trekking adventure. Spend the night in this peaceful village.
*Note* Flight to Pokhara time: 25 minutes approx. Pokhara Elevation: 822m/2696ft. Drive to Tikhedhunga: 2 hours approx. Drive Distance: 50 km approx. Overnight at lodge. Sleeping Elevation: 1480m/4855ft.
DAY 3: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani – B.L.D
After breakfast at the lodge, start your trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani. The trail ascends steadily through lush, dense forests and terraced fields, passing several small villages experiencing local culture. A notable highlight is the Ulleri stone steps, a steep section with over 3,000 steps. Beyond Ulleri, the path continues to climb, offering beautiful views and changing scenery. Arriving in Ghorepani, a picturesque village find a welcoming lodge or teahouse, rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
*Note* Trekking Distance: 15 km approx. Trekking Time: 6-7 hours approx. Overnight at Lodge/Tea House. Sleeping Elevation: 2,874m/9429ft.
DAY 4: Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani – B.L.D
Start your day with an early hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill, which takes about 1 hour, to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, with the peaks illuminated in golden light. After enjoying the panoramic views, return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, set out on the trek to Tadapani. The route features a mix of ascents and descents, meandering through lush forests and offering scenic vistas of the landscape with the varied terrain experiencing beautiful views and changing scenery before reaching Tadapani. Overnight at Tadapani.
*Note* Hike to Poon Hill 1 Hour Elevation 3210m/10,531ft. Trekking Distance to Tadapani: 10 km approx. Trekking Time: 5-6 hours approx. Overnight at Lodge/Tea House. Sleeping Elevation: 2,700m/8858ft.
DAY 5: Tadapani to Ghandruk – B.L.D
After breakfast start the trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk. The trek involves descending through lush forests and terraced fields, providing beautiful views and a chance to experience the serene landscape. Ghandruk, a large Gurung village renowned for its traditional stone houses, is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. Upon arrival, settle into the accommodation for the night and take time to explore the village. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit local homes, and interact with the friendly inhabitants to gain a deeper understanding of their traditions and way of life. Enjoy the evening immersed in the local culture and hospitality.
*Note* Trekking Distance to Tadapani: 10 km approx. Trekking Time: 4-5 hours approx. Overnight at Lodge. Sleeping Elevation: 1,950m/6397ft.
DAY 6: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara – B.L
After breakfast trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul. The trail descends gradually, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including terraced fields and picturesque villages. Passing through charming hamlets where local life continues at a relaxed pace, adding to the scenic beauty of the trek. Upon reaching Nayapul, transfer to a vehicle for the drive back to Pokhara, which takes approximately two hours. Arrive in Pokhara in the late afternoon or evening and spend the rest of the day relaxing and unwinding in this serene city, enjoying its lakeside charm and vibrant atmosphere.
*Note* Trekking Distance to Tadapani: 10 km approx. Trekking Time: 3-4 hours approx. Drive to Pokhara 2 hours approx. Drive Distance: 50 km approx. Overnight at Hotel. Sleeping Elevation: 822m/2696ft.
DAY 7: Sightseeing in Pokhara – B
Breakfast at the hotel and start the day with a full day of sightseeing in Pokhara, a city renowned for its serene beauty and diverse outdoor activities. Start with a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake, taking in the calm waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding hills and Annapurna range. Visit Devi’s Falls to witness the dramatic cascade and explore the nearby Gupteshwor Cave, which houses a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, hike up to the World Peace Pagoda, perched on a hill with panoramic views of Pokhara, the lake, and the majestic mountain ranges. The blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences makes Pokhara an ideal destination to unwind and immerse yourself in the essence of Nepal.
*Note* Sightseeing around Pokhara. Overnight at Hotel. Sleeping Elevation: 822m/2696ft.
DAY 8: Fly/Drive to Kathmandu – B
After breakfast, there is an option between a short domestic scenic flight or a drive back to Kathmandu. If you take the flight, you will arrive in Kathmandu more quickly, giving extra time to explore the city upon arrival. Once in Kathmandu, check-in at the hotel and take a moment to refresh and relax. With the remainder of the day at your disposal.
In the evening visit Patan Durbar Square. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Patan Durbar Square is a marvel of Newari architecture and arts. The Patan Museum, located within one of the old residential courts of the Royal Family, houses some of the most important religious, historical, and sacred arts of Nepal. Explore this ancient marketplace, a center for trade between Tibet, Nepal, and India, and visit traditional craftsmen and their studios and shop for souvenirs.
*Note* Flight to Kathmandu: 25 minutes. Drive to Kathmandu: 6-8 hours approx, Distance: 200 km approx. Overnight at Hotel. Sleeping Elevation: 1400m/4593ft.
DAY 9: Sightseeing in Kathmandu – B
After breakfast, visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) on a hill west of Kathmandu for panoramic city views and see the monkeys and shrines. Next, explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with palaces, temples, and the Kumari Ghar (home of the living goddess). Despite earthquake damage, it remains a key cultural landmark. End with a rickshaw ride through the spice market to Thamel for lunch and shopping.
In the evening, visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. Tibetan Buddhists start and end their day with a circumambulation of the stupa, a sort of daily pilgrimage. The stupa comes alive in the evening with butter lamps lit all around.
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Boudhanath Stupa.
*Note* Sightseeing around Kathmandu. Overnight at Hotel. Sleeping Elevation: 1400m/4593ft.
DAY 10: Final Departure – B
Today is the final day. After breakfast based on your flight time, the Manram representative will transfer you to the international airport for your onward flight.
***End of Manram Himalayan Voyages services***
- Airport pick-up and drop by private transport.
- 3 nights in Kathmandu on sharing twin bedrooms – BB basis.
- 2 nights in Pokhara on sharing twin bedrooms – BB basis.
- Both-way airfare to Pokhara.
- Private Jeep transportation Pokhara-Nayapul-Pokhara.
- 3 time meals during the trekking.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Fees.
- Professional trekking guide.
- All expenses for the guide (Wages, insurance, travel costs, accommodation).
- 1:2 porter to trekker ratio for carrying luggage (15kg allowed per trekker).
- An additional cost will be applied to Land transportation to Pokhara – Kathmandu (Optional).
- All taxes imposed by the Government of Nepal.
- International Airfares.
- Nepal Entry VISA Fee.
- Expenses of a personal nature like alcoholic beverages, hot showers during the trek, personal trekking gear, Lunch, and Dinner in Kathmandu.
- Travel and Medical Insurance.
- Charge for extra heavy luggage (more than 15 kgs).
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Extra meals than 3 courses.
- The expenses incurred in case of early arrival or early departure from the trek.