- Details
Itinerary
Itinerary- Useful Info
- FAQ
Trip overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a relatively easy trek that can be completed in about a week and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The trek starts from Nayapul, which is a few hours’ drive from Pokhara, and passes through beautiful villages and forests before reaching Ghorepani, a small town located at an altitude of 2,874 meters. From Ghorepani, trekkers wake up early in the morning to hike up to Poon Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
After enjoying the views from Poon Hill, trekkers return to Ghorepani and continue on to Tadapani and Ghandruk, two picturesque villages with traditional Nepalese architecture and culture. The trek then descends back to Nayapul, where it ends.
Overall, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a great option for trekkers who want to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region without committing to a longer, more challenging trek. However, trekkers should still be prepared for some uphill hiking and variable weather conditions.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be picked up by a representative of your trekking agency and transferred to your hotel. You will have some time to rest and explore the city.
After breakfast, you will be driven to Pokhara, which takes about 6-7 hours. Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside city and the gateway to the Annapurna region.
After an early breakfast, you will be driven to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. From there, you will trek to Tikhedhunga, a small village located at an altitude of 1,540 meters. The trek takes about 4-5 hours and passes through beautiful villages and forests.
Today you will trek to Ghorepani, a small town located at an altitude of 2,874 meters. The trek takes about 6-7 hours and is relatively steep, with many stairs to climb. You will pass through beautiful rhododendron forests and enjoy stunning mountain views along the way.
Today you will wake up early in the morning and hike up to Poon Hill to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. After enjoying the views, you will trek back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue on to Tadapani, a beautiful village located at an altitude of 2,630 meters.
Today you will trek to Ghandruk, a picturesque village with traditional Nepalese architecture and culture. The trek takes about 4-5 hours and passes through beautiful forests and villages.
Today you will trek back to Nayapul and then drive back to Pokhara. You will have some time to explore the city and relax.
After breakfast, you will be driven back to Kathmandu. You will have some time to explore the city and do some last-minute shopping.
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.
Useful Info
- Best time to go: The best time to go for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons when the weather is clear and the views are stunning.
- Permits: To enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and trek to Ghorepani and Poon Hill, you will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Altitude Sickness: Even though Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a relatively easy trek, there is still a risk of altitude sickness. Make sure to acclimatize properly and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Accommodation and Food: There are many teahouses along the trekking route that offer basic but comfortable accommodation and food. You can expect to find traditional Nepalese food like Dal Bhat, momos, and noodles, as well as some Western options.
- Packing: It is important to pack lightweight and warm clothes, as the weather can be variable and cold at higher altitudes. Bring a good quality sleeping bag and a sturdy pair of hiking shoes. A headlamp, trekking poles, and a first aid kit are also recommended.
- Physical Fitness: Even though Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a relatively easy trek, it still requires a moderate level of physical fitness. You should be comfortable walking for 4-6 hours a day on uneven terrain and climbing stairs.
- Safety: It is important to trek with a guide or a porter, especially if you are a solo traveler or if you are new to trekking in Nepal. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and avoid trekking alone, especially at high altitudes.
Overall, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a beautiful and accessible trek that offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. With proper preparation and safety measures, it can be a truly unforgettable experience.
FAQs
-
How long does the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek take to complete?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek usually takes around 5-7 days to complete, depending on your pace and itinerary. Some trekkers may choose to extend or shorten the trek, depending on their preferences.
-
What is the starting point of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek typically begins from Nayapul, which is a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. From Nayapul, you will trek through several villages and trails until you reach Ghorepani and Poon Hill.
-
What is the highest altitude on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?
The highest point on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is Poon Hill, which is at an altitude of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). This is also the best viewpoint for sunrise and panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
-
What is the best time to trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?
The best time to trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is usually dry and clear, and the views are spectacular. However, the trail can be crowded during peak season. The winter months (December to February) are also possible, but the trail can be snowy and slippery. The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended, as the trail can be muddy and slippery.
-
Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide or porter for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, it is highly recommended. The trail can be challenging in some parts, and a guide can provide valuable insight into the local culture and help with navigation, while a porter can carry your heavy backpack, making the trek more comfortable.
-
What is the accommodation like on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?
Along the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, there are tea houses and lodges that provide basic accommodation and meals. The lodges are run by the local communities, and they offer a warm and hospitable atmosphere. The quality of accommodation varies from basic to comfortable, depending on the location.
