Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Himalayan Escape Adventure. After a short briefing about your trek, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. This day is free for rest and relaxation to adjust to the time zone and altitude. You may take a walk around Thamel, the vibrant tourist hub of Kathmandu, or enjoy a traditional Nepalese meal. Your guide will meet you in the evening to discuss the details of your trek and to prepare for the adventure ahead.
Today marks the start of your journey toward the Annapurna region. After breakfast, you will begin the scenic drive to Pokhara, which will take about 6-7 hours. Along the way, enjoy the views of the lush countryside, rivers, and traditional Nepali villages. As you get closer to Pokhara, the mighty Annapurna mountain range begins to appear on the horizon, a sight that will accompany you for the next few days. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in at your hotel, and take time to relax. In the evening, you can enjoy the lakeside scenery of Phewa Lake, or take a boat ride to get the perfect view of the Annapurnas reflected in the water.
After breakfast, you will undertake on a 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. From Nayapul, the trekking begins with a pleasant walk through terraced fields and charming local villages. You will pass through Tikhedhunga, a picturesque village, and continue upwards towards Ulleri. This part of the trek is a gradual ascent, and although the uphill climb to Ulleri can be challenging, the trail provides fantastic views of the surrounding hills and the Himalayas. Upon reaching Ulleri, you will check into your lodge for an overnight stay and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Today, you will trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani. The trail ascends gradually through dense forests of oak and rhododendron trees. Along the way, you will pass small villages and enjoy views of the surrounding landscapes and mountains. The trek is moderate, but the rewards are worth the effort as you approach Ghorepani, a village situated at an elevation of 2,850 meters. Ghorepani is renowned for its spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After arriving, you can relax in your lodge, soaking in the beauty of the majestic peaks that surround you.
Today is an early start as you hike to Poon Hill for one of the best sunrise views in the region. The 45-minute climb to the viewpoint offers an unforgettable panorama of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare peaks bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun. After taking in the breathtaking views, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing your trek. From Ghorepani, you will trek to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village nestled at 1,950 meters. The walk takes you through lush forests and offers great views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. After a rewarding trek, you will spend the night in Ghandruk, experiencing the rich culture of the Gurung community.
On this day, you will trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul, where your journey will conclude on foot. The trail is mostly downhill, passing through terraced fields and subtropical forests. After about 4-5 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Nayapul. From here, a short drive will take you back to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax at your hotel and enjoy the peaceful lakeside area, perhaps indulging in some shopping or a leisurely dinner.
Today, you will drive back to Kathmandu, retracing the scenic route you took at the beginning of your journey. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours, offering more stunning views of the landscape. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You will have the afternoon and evening free to explore any sights you may have missed during your first day in the capital. If you're interested, you can visit the famous Boudhanath Stupa or explore the historic sites in Patan or Bhaktapur. In the evening, you will have the chance to enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers, reflecting on your memorable trek.
On your final day in Nepal, depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. If your flight is in the evening, you may have some time to do last-minute shopping for souvenirs or to relax in the hotel before your transfer to the airport. Himalayan Escape Adventure thanks you for choosing us for your trekking adventure, and we look forward to welcoming you on another journey to the Himalayas in the future. Safe travels!
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. This trek is perfect for those who are looking for a moderate adventure, offering an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Himalayas, local culture, and diverse landscapes. The trek typically lasts for 4 to 8 days, starting from Nayapul and finishing in Pokhara, with a highlight being the sunrise from Poon Hill at an altitude of 3,210 meters, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
The best time to explore on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is clear, the views are exceptional, and the temperatures are mild. The spring season offers beautiful rhododendron flowers in bloom, while autumn is the prime trekking season with stable weather conditions. Avoid the summer (monsoon) months (June to August) due to frequent rainfall, and winter (December to February) can be cold, especially at higher altitudes.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for beginners and those who are relatively fit. It doesn’t require technical climbing skills, but trekkers need to have a basic level of fitness to walk for several hours a day on varied terrain. The trek involves uphill and downhill sections, and the highest point, Poon Hill, is at 3,210 meters, so some altitude acclimatization is important. With proper preparation, most people of average fitness can complete this trek without difficulty.
For the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, it is essential to pack lightweight and weather-appropriate gear. Some must-have items include:
Clothing:Layers of clothing including a fleece jacket, a waterproof jacket, trekking pants, and thermal wear for colder evenings.
Footwear:Comfortable, sturdy trekking boots with good grip.
Accessories: A hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a headlamp.
Sleeping bag: A lightweight sleeping bag (down or synthetic) is recommended for comfort during overnight stays.
Water:A reusable water bottle and purification tablets or water filter.
Other Essentials: First aid kit, camera, trekking poles, snacks, and power banks for charging electronic devices.
Himalayan Escape Adventure will provide a detailed packing list before your trek to ensure you're well-prepared.
The trek involves staying in local teahouses or lodges along the route. These are simple yet comfortable, offering basic facilities like shared bathrooms and electricity (often solar-powered). Most lodges offer warm meals and provide a cozy atmosphere to relax after a day’s trekking. Rooms usually come with a bed, blankets, and pillows. It’s a great way to experience local hospitality, but please note that comfort standards may not be comparable to urban hotels.
On the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, trekkers can enjoy a variety of traditional Nepali and international dishes. Typical meals include dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), soups, and noodles. Many lodges also offer western meals like pasta, pancakes, and fried rice. For breakfast, you will find options like eggs, porridge, toast, and pancakes. The food is safe, nutritious, and provides the energy required for trekking.
While the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is relatively easy to follow, it is highly recommended to have a guide, especially for first-time trekkers. A guide not only enhances your experience by sharing local knowledge, history, and culture, but they can also ensure your safety and provide assistance with any emergencies. Porters can also be hired to carry your gear, allowing you to trek more comfortably and focus on the journey. Himalayan Escape Adventure offers both guide and porter services as part of the trekking package.
The trek begins from Nayapul, which is easily accessible from Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will take a private vehicle or a local bus to Nayapul, a journey that takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Himalayan Escape Adventure arranges transportation for all trekkers, ensuring you have a smooth and comfortable journey to the starting point.
Yes, trekkers need two permits to trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill route:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required for all trekkers in the Annapurna region.
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This is also required for all trekkers in Nepal for safety and tracking purposes. Himalayan Escape Adventure will assist you in obtaining these permits as part of your trekking package, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Altitude sickness is less of a concern on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek because the highest point, Poon Hill, is at a relatively moderate elevation of 3,210 meters. However, it is important to trek at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, and follow any advice from your guide to avoid altitude-related issues. Symptoms like headaches or dizziness should be communicated to your guide immediately, and they will take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Himalayan Escape Adventure offers a well-organized and personalized trekking experience. With years of experience in the trekking industry, we provide professional guides, experienced porters, and safe, reliable services. Our focus is on ensuring your comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout the trek. We are dedicated to promoting responsible tourism and respecting the local culture and environment. Our carefully planned itineraries, inclusive packages, and commitment to quality service make us a top choice for trekkers looking to explore the Ghorepani Poon Hill region.
For more information or to book your trek, feel free to contact Himalayan Escape Adventure. We look forward to guiding you on an unforgettable Himalayan journey!