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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking, offered by Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition, is one of Nepal’s most popular and accessible trekking routes in the Annapurna region. This trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, terraced fields, and panoramic Himalayan vistas. The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking sunrise views over the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
The trek begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, followed by trekking through scenic landscapes and charming villages like Ulleri and Ghorepani. This journey combines cultural encounters with nature’s beauty, offering trekkers an authentic experience of rural Nepal and its warm hospitality. It’s a relatively short trek, typically spanning 4-6 days, making it suitable for those with limited time but who still want to experience the Himalayas’ majesty.
Best Time for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
The best time to undertake the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition is during the pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (autumn) seasons. Spring, from March to May, is famous for vibrant rhododendron blooms that paint the forests in vivid reds and pinks. This period also offers clear skies and moderate temperatures, perfect for trekking and mountain photography.
Autumn, from late September to November, is another ideal time as the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayas are at their sharpest. The temperature is cooler but comfortable during the day. Winter months can be quite cold, and the monsoon season (June to August) often brings heavy rains, slippery trails, and obstructed mountain views, making trekking less pleasant and more hazardous.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Difficulty
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered a moderate-level trek suitable for beginners and those with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail involves gradual ascents and descents, with some steep sections, particularly the climb from Nayapul to Ulleri, which includes over 3,000 stone steps. However, the overall altitude gain is manageable, and most trekkers can complete the route without needing specialized mountaineering experience.
Because the trek stays below 3,500 meters, altitude sickness is less of a concern compared to higher Himalayan routes. With the expert guidance and support of Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition, trekkers can comfortably navigate the trail, pace themselves well, and enjoy the journey without undue strain.
Food and Accommodation for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition arranges comfortable accommodation in traditional teahouses or lodges along the route. These teahouses provide basic but clean rooms with essential amenities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some lodges may offer hot showers, depending on the location and availability of water and electricity.
Food on the trek is typically simple yet nutritious, with menus featuring local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), vegetable curry, momos (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Most teahouses also serve tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to warm up after a day of trekking. The meals are freshly prepared, catering to trekkers’ dietary needs, and the company ensures your comfort and safety throughout the journey.
Why Choose Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking with Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition?
Choosing Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition for your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek means opting for a trusted, experienced trekking company committed to delivering an unforgettable Himalayan experience. The company provides knowledgeable local guides who are experts in mountain culture, safety protocols, and environmental stewardship. Their well-organized itineraries ensure a smooth and rewarding trek without the stress of logistics.
Moreover, Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition emphasizes sustainable tourism, supporting local communities and preserving the natural environment. They offer personalized service, flexible schedules, and a focus on safety and comfort, making them the ideal choice for both novice and seasoned trekkers seeking to explore Nepal’s Annapurna region with confidence and ease.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition will greet you and transfer you to your comfortable hotel in the heart of the city. Take the rest of the day to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, or prepare for your upcoming adventure. In the evening, we will hold a detailed briefing session about the trek, covering the route, safety tips, and gear checklist. This is a perfect time to meet your trekking guides and fellow travelers, ensuring you feel confident and ready for the journey ahead.
After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic 6-7 hour drive from Kathmandu to the lakeside city of Pokhara. The route offers stunning views of the Trishuli River and terraced hills. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this popular tourist town. Pokhara is known for its peaceful lakeside ambiance and views of the Annapurna mountain range. Spend the evening strolling along Phewa Lake or exploring local markets. Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition team will assist you with any last-minute preparations for the trek.
The adventure begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, where the trek officially starts. From Nayapul, you’ll trek along the Modi River, passing through small villages, lush forests, and terraced farmland. Your first major stop will be Tikhedhunga, where you can enjoy a packed lunch with views of the hills. The trek then continues uphill to Ulleri, famous for its steep stone stairway with over 3,000 steps. Ulleri is a charming village with traditional Gurung culture and warm hospitality, where you will spend your first night on the trail.
Today’s trek is challenging but rewarding, as you ascend through rhododendron and oak forests, gradually gaining altitude. The trail weaves through serene villages and offers glimpses of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Upon reaching Ghorepani, you’ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Ghorepani is a small, cozy village known as the gateway to Poon Hill. After a hearty meal and a restful night, prepare for the early morning hike the next day.
Wake up before dawn to trek the short distance to Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. From here, enjoy an unforgettable sunrise over the Himalayas, including spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain). After soaking in the breathtaking scenery and snapping photos, return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, trek downhill through lush forests and traditional Gurung villages to Ghandruk, a cultural highlight known for its charming stone houses and local museum. Spend the night experiencing authentic mountain village life.
On the final trekking day, descend through forested trails and terraced fields, passing small settlements on your way back to Nayapul. This section is easier, offering time to reflect on your journey and enjoy the natural surroundings. Upon arrival at Nayapul, you’ll be greeted by your vehicle and driven back to Pokhara. Relax in your hotel or explore the town’s lakeside cafes and markets, celebrating the successful completion of your trek with the Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition team.
After breakfast, embark on the return drive to Kathmandu. The journey offers picturesque views of rural Nepal and river valleys. Once in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. This is a great opportunity to shop for souvenirs or visit cultural sites like Boudhanath Stupa or Thamel’s lively streets. The Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition team will be available for any assistance or to help arrange optional sightseeing tours.
Today marks the end of your Nepal adventure. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. We hope the memories of the breathtaking mountains, warm hospitality, and vibrant culture will stay with you forever. Thank you for trekking with Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition—we look forward to welcoming you back for another incredible journey!
The ideal seasons for this trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally stable, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are comfortable, ensuring stunning mountain views and pleasant trekking conditions. Winter treks are also possible, but you should be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snowfall.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves steady uphill and downhill walks, with some steep sections, especially on the early morning hike to Poon Hill viewpoint. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but no prior trekking experience is necessary. Our guides from Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition will provide support and adjust the pace according to your fitness and preferences.
Packing light yet adequately is key. Essentials include comfortable trekking shoes, layered clothing for varying temperatures, a warm jacket, a hat and gloves, sunscreen, a good daypack, and a refillable water bottle. We advise carrying only the essentials as porters or yaks can be arranged through Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition to carry heavier luggage.
During the trek, accommodation is generally in teahouses or lodges that offer basic but comfortable rooms with beds and blankets. Hot showers and charging facilities are usually available for a small fee. The food is predominantly Nepali and includes dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and simple western options. Our company ensures that meals are nutritious and hygienic throughout your journey.
The maximum altitude reached on this trek is around 3,193 meters (Poon Hill), which is relatively moderate. While altitude sickness is less common on this trek compared to higher routes, it can still affect some individuals. Our guides from Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition are trained to recognize symptoms and will help you acclimatize properly by following a well-paced itinerary.
Safety is our top priority at Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition. We use experienced local guides who are familiar with the terrain and emergency procedures. We also provide necessary information about weather conditions, health precautions, and emergency contacts to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Yes! Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition offers flexible trekking packages. If you want to extend your stay in the Annapurna region, visit nearby villages, or include additional trekking routes, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences and time availability.
Our standard package for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek typically includes airport transfers, transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodation during the trek, meals as specified, experienced guides and porters, necessary permits, and trek briefing sessions. We recommend contacting Mountain Holiday Treks & Expedition directly for a detailed breakdown of inclusions and pricing.
