Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
Trip Duration:
9 Nights & 10 Days
Max Altitude:
3210 m
Activities:
Trekking
Start Point:
Kathmandu
Ending Point:
Kathmandu
Region:
Annapurna Region
Trip Grade:
Moderate
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel / Tea House Lodge on the trek
Best Season:
Octuber to May
Trips Overview
The Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding short trekking adventures in Nepal. Located in the beautiful Annapurna Region, this trek offers a perfect combination of breathtaking Himalayan scenery, traditional mountain villages, rich culture, and beautiful natural landscapes.
The journey usually begins from Pokhara with a scenic drive to the trekking starting point. The trail passes through charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmland, and peaceful mountain paths. One of the major highlights of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), one of the finest viewpoints in Nepal, famous for its unforgettable sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayas.
From Poon Hill, trekkers can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and many other surrounding peaks. The trek also includes a visit to the traditional village of Ghandruk, well known for its unique Gurung culture, stone-built houses, friendly locals, and incredible mountain scenery.
This trek is considered relatively easy and suitable for beginners, families, and trekkers looking for a short yet memorable Himalayan experience. With comfortable teahouse accommodation, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural encounters, the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk Trek is an excellent introduction to trekking in Nepal.
Trips Highlights
- Spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210 m) over the magnificent Himalayan ranges
- Panoramic mountain views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri
- Beautiful trekking trails through rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, waterfalls, and traditional villages
- Experience the unique culture, hospitality, and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar communities
- Explore the charming Gurung village of Ghandruk with its stone houses and mountain scenery
- Scenic drive between Pokhara and the trekking starting point
- Opportunity to witness rich biodiversity including Himalayan birds and beautiful flora
- Comfortable teahouse trekking suitable for beginners, families, and nature lovers
- Stunning landscapes with peaceful mountain atmosphere throughout the journey
- One of the best short trekking experiences in the Annapurna Region of Nepal
Include
- Airport / hotel pick-up and drop-off assistance upon arrival and departure by The Crampon for Nepal Travel representatives
- All ground transfers in air-conditioned vehicles in Kathmandu (as per group size)
- Non-alcoholic welcome drink upon hotel arrival
- Accommodation in twin/double sharing rooms with bed & breakfast basis in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Entrance fees for all monuments during guided city sightseeing
- Professional licensed tour guide in English, Spanish, or other major languages during Kathmandu sightseeing
- During Tea House Trek: Domestic flight: Kathmandu – Pokhara -- Kathmandu
- Trekking permits: ACAP ( Annapurna Conservation Area Permit & TIMS ( Tourist Information Management System)
- Accommodation in tea houses/lodges on twin or dormitory sharing basis
- Three meals daily during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner ) & Tea twice daily. Please note that each meal is served as a single serving.
- Experienced licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, max luggage 8 kg per trekker)
- One assistant guide for groups above 6 trekkers
- Staff wages, insurance, food, accommodation, and trekking equipment
- Duffel bag for trekking use
- First aid medical kit
- Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement as per travel insurance coverage
- Farewell Dinner
- All applicable government taxes and service charges
Exclude
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fee (payable at Kathmandu airport)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Monument photography fees (if applicable)
- Wi-Fi and device charging during trekking (if applicable)
- Hot shower charges during trekking (if applicable)
- Extra costs due to unforeseen events such as landslides, strikes, weather, or political situations
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, drinks, snacks, etc.
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (customary but optional)
- Travel insurance including helicopter rescue (strongly recommended)
- Extra accommodation, transport, or services due to early return or itinerary changes
- Any services not mentioned in the “Includes” section
Trips Itinerary
Your flight into Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of the Himalayan nation of Nepal, rewards you with spectacular aerial views of some of the country’s beautiful mountain ranges, including Mt. Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), Mt. Ganesh (7,422 m), Mt. Purbi Chhyachu (6,637 m), and Mt. Langtang (7,227 m), weather permitting. Upon your arrival at the airport and completion of immigration formalities, a representative from Sampurna Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
After check-in, the remainder of the day is free for relaxation or personal activities following your trip briefing. You may also choose to explore the lively streets of Thamel, the main tourist hub of Kathmandu, famous for its bustling atmosphere, diverse restaurants, ATMs, money exchange services,
Today we explore some of the most remarkable cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. The sightseeing begins with a visit to the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site once home to the Malla Kings who ruled the valley. Within the palace complex lies the famous Kumari Ghar, residence of the Living Goddess Kumari, where visitors may catch a glimpse of her appearing from the beautifully carved balcony windows. The ancient royal palace, known as Hanuman Dhoka, showcases impressive courtyards, temples, and monuments where Nepalese kings were traditionally crowned. Nearby stands the massive statue of Kala Bhairava, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, along with several beautifully crafted temples.
We then continue to Swayambhunath Stupa, one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist monuments in Nepal with a history dating back over 2,500 years. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers panoramic views of the city along with a unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu traditions. The stupa is surrounded by prayer wheels, monasteries, shrines, chaityas, and traditional houses of priests, while the scent of incense and butter lamps creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The site is also well known for the playful monkeys that inhabit the area.
Later, we visit the magnificent Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, also known as the City of Fine Arts. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture, intricate metal and stone craftsmanship, and rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the ancient royal palace with its golden gates and artistic windows, the famous Krishna Mandir, temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the beautiful Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, also known as the Golden Temple, along with numerous monasteries and charming courtyards.
The scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is one of the most beautiful domestic air journeys in Nepal. The flight usually takes around 25 to 30 minutes and offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan range, lush green hills, deep river valleys, and traditional villages. On clear days, passengers can enjoy magnificent views of famous peaks such as Manaslu, Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Dhaulagiri, and Langtang Himal, weather permitting.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, visitors are welcomed by the peaceful atmosphere of Nepal’s beautiful lake city. Located beside the tranquil Phewa Lake and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Pokhara is the gateway to many famous trekking regions including the Annapurna area. The city is well known for its natural beauty, adventure activities, relaxing cafés, and stunning mountain scenery.
You will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your own pace around the famous Lakeside area, the vibrant tourist center of Pokhara.
Lakeside is a lively and charming place filled with cozy cafés, excellent restaurants, souvenir shops, trekking gear stores, handicraft boutiques, bakeries, bars, and local markets. Strolling along the peaceful lakeside streets beside the beautiful Phewa Lake offers a relaxing atmosphere with stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy delicious local and international cuisine, shop for traditional Nepali handicrafts, or simply relax while admiring the breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range.
After breakfast, we begin a scenic drive from Pokhara to Tikhedhunga by private jeep. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, passing through beautiful countryside landscapes, terraced farmlands, traditional villages, rivers, and lush green hills of the Annapurna Region.
The drive follows a combination of paved and off-road mountain routes, offering wonderful views of rural Nepal and glimpses of snow-capped Himalayan peaks along the way. As the road gradually climbs higher into the hills, travelers can experience the peaceful atmosphere of village life, local farms, waterfalls, and dense forests.
Upon arrival at Tikhedhunga, a charming small settlement surrounded by green hills and rivers, we prepare for the trekking adventure ahead. The area serves as one of the traditional starting points for the famous Poon Hill trekking route. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing and enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
After lunch, we begin our trek from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri. The trail starts with a gradual walk alongside streams and small settlements before reaching the famous stone staircase leading uphill to Ulleri. This section is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of the trek, featuring thousands of stone steps surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
As we ascend higher, the trail passes through terraced farmlands, waterfalls, lush forests, and traditional villages inhabited mainly by the Magar community. Along the route, trekkers can enjoy views of green hills, flowing rivers, and occasional glimpses of the snow-capped Himalayas.
After several hours of uphill trekking, we arrive at the beautiful village of Ulleri, situated on a hillside with impressive mountain views and peaceful surroundings. The village offers a wonderful opportunity to experience local culture, traditional stone houses, and the warm hospitality of the mountain people while preparing for the journey deeper into the Annapurna Region.
After breakfast, the trek begins from Ulleri towards Ghorepani through beautiful forests and traditional mountain villages. The trail gradually ascends along stone-paved paths, passing through dense rhododendron and oak forests filled with birds, waterfalls, and peaceful natural scenery.
During spring, the forests become especially colorful with blooming rhododendron flowers covering the hillsides. Along the route, trekkers can enjoy occasional views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and experience the warm hospitality of the local Magar and Gurung communities.
The walk is both scenic and rewarding, with several small teahouses and resting places along the way. As you gain altitude, the fresh mountain air and changing landscapes create a truly memorable trekking experience. After several hours of trekking, we finally reach Ghorepani, a beautiful mountain village situated beneath the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. From here, trekkers can enjoy spectacular mountain scenery and prepare for the early morning sunrise excursion to Poon Hill the following day.
Early morning the guide will knock at your door to head up to the well-marked track by torchlight, hiking to an absolute celebrated viewpoint of Poon Hill (3195M), which overlooks the great valley and village. The first light of dawn illuminates Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak with a surreal pink glow. From here you will see wide range of high mountains from west to east about 650 km by the morning cool sunrise.
Later back to Ghorepani for breakfast, continue our trail with some ups and later descends through beautiful forests to Tadapani village, along the way you could see some wild animals, such as languor monkeys with occasional stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
After breakfast, we begin our trek from Tadapani to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk. The trail gently descends through dense rhododendron and oak forests, offering peaceful natural surroundings, fresh mountain air, and occasional views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna Region, with colorful birds, forest landscapes, waterfalls, and traditional mountain scenery. As the trail continues, the magnificent views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli become more visible.
After a pleasant walk, we arrive at Ghandruk, one of the largest and most picturesque Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. Famous for its traditional stone houses, rich culture, friendly locals, and stunning mountain backdrop, Ghandruk offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the authentic lifestyle and hospitality of the Gurung community.
The remainder of the day can be spent exploring the village, visiting the local museum, or simply relaxing while enjoying the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
After breakfast at Ghandruk, we begin our scenic drive back to Pokhara by private jeep. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.
The drive descends through beautiful hills, terraced farmlands, traditional Gurung villages, and forested landscapes of the Annapurna Region. Along the way, travelers can enjoy refreshing views of rivers, waterfalls, and green valleys, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped mountains fading into the distance.
As we move closer to Pokhara, the landscape gradually opens into wider valleys and more developed settlements. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation at the beautiful Lakeside area, where you can enjoy cafés, restaurants, souvenir shops, or simply relax by the peaceful Phewa Lake after completing your memorable trekking adventure.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for a scenic short flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This 25–30 minute flight offers beautiful aerial views of the Himalayas, green hills, and river valleys, making it a memorable final glimpse of the mountains.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will continue for sightseeing of two of the most important cultural and spiritual landmarks of Nepal.
First, visit the historic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, ancient temples, courtyards, and traditional Newari culture. Highlights include the royal palace area, intricately carved wooden windows, pagoda-style temples, pottery squares, and vibrant local life that reflects the rich heritage of the Malla period.
Later, we proceed to the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This peaceful spiritual center is surrounded by monasteries, prayer wheels, and Tibetan-influenced shops and cafés. Devotees walk clockwise around the stupa spinning prayer wheels, while the sound of chants and incense creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
After the sightseeing, return to your hotel in Kathmandu and enjoy your final evening in Nepal, reflecting on your trekking and cultural journey.
After breakfast, the morning is free for your personal activities. You may choose to explore the vibrant and lively streets of Thamel, the main tourist hub of Kathmandu, known for its energetic atmosphere, narrow alleys, and endless shops. This area offers a wide variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine, along with numerous stores selling traditional Nepali handicrafts, fine jewelry, clothing, souvenirs, and trekking equipment.
At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your final departure. We sincerely hope you have enjoyed your journey in Nepal and look forward to welcoming you again in the future.
End of Service.
Packing List
Preparing the right packing list for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is essential for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey to the Himalayas. The trek takes you through varying altitudes and temperatures, so having the appropriate clothing, gear, and equipment is crucial for success. Below is a comprehensive checklist of what to bring for your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Clothing
• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms ( winter)
• Insulating Layers: Fleece jacket or down jacket for warmth
• Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
• Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants
• T-shirts: Breathable, moisture-wicking shirts (long and short sleeves)
• Gloves: Inner thermal gloves and outer waterproof gloves (winter)
Footwear
• Trekking Boots: Waterproof, well-broken-in boots with good ankle support
• Camp Shoes or Sandals: For resting in the evenings at teahouses
Backpack and Gear
• Main Duffel Bag: Provided by most trekking agencies for porters
• Daypack (30–40L): To carry essentials like water, snacks, and camera
Reviews

Nature’s Untouched Masterpiece
Upper Dolpo is a hidden gem of Nepal. The scenery, wildlife, and peacefulness are unmatched. The trek was well-organized, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Truly an adventure of a lifetime!Upper Dolpo is a hidden gem of Nepal. The scenery, wildlife, and peacefulness are unmatched. The trek was well-organized,…
John Doe
,Usa

Challenging but Rewarding
This trek tested my limits, but the reward was seeing the untouched Dolpo region. From high-altitude passes to the serene Shey Phoksundo Lake, every moment was magical. The guides ensured safety and comfort throughout. I can’t wait to return!
Emily Walker
,UK

A Journey Like No Other
Trekking Upper Dolpo was an unforgettable experience. The landscapes were untouched, the local culture fascinating, and the guides were extremely professional. Every day brought new adventures and breathtaking views. Highly recommended for serious trekkers!
Sarah Thompson
,USA
