Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 2026 | 5 Days Itinerary & Cost

Overview

The Most Iconic Short Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is perhaps the most famous short trek in Nepal. Perfect for those with limited time or seeking a relatively gentle introduction to Himalayan trekking, this 5-day adventure offers world-class mountain vistas without the extreme altitudes of longer circuits.

Trip Facts

Group Size	2–14 Persons
Accommodation	Teahouses / Lodges
Meals	B, L, D during trekking
Transportation	Private Jeep / Car
Max Elevation	3,210m (Poon Hill)
Difficulty	Easy / Moderate

Highlights

Why You'll Love This Trek

Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m)
The ultimate vantage point for a 360-degree panorama of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South.
Rhododendron Forests
Walk through enchanted forests that bloom with vibrant red and pink flowers in spring.
Ghandruk Gurung Village
Explore one of Nepal's most beautiful traditional stone villages and its rich local culture.
Machhapuchhre Views
Get up-close views of the sacred 'Fishtail' peak, iconic to the Pokhara valley.
Mountain Hospitality
Stay in cozy teahouses and enjoy warm local meals as you journey through the hills.
Photographer's Dream
Endless opportunities for landscape photography and capturing authentic village life.

Day-by-Day

Detailed Itinerary

5 days of Himalayan magic — click any day to expand

01 Pokhara → Drive to Nayapul → Trek to Ulleri (2,050m)

Start your adventure with a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. The trek begins with a steady walk along the Modi Khola river, passing through small settlements and terraced fields. The day concludes with a steep but rewarding climb up the stone stairs to the beautiful village of Ulleri. Walking time: 5–6 hours.

02 Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m)

A magical day of trekking through dense forests of oak and rhododendron. The trail ascends gradually, offering occasional glimpses of the snowy peaks ahead. You'll arrive at Ghorepani, a bustling village on a ridge, in the afternoon. Enjoy the sunset views before resting for tomorrow's early start. Walking time: 4–5 hours.

03 Poon Hill Sunrise → Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)

Rise at 4:30 AM for the climb to the summit of Poon Hill (3,210m). Witness one of the world's most spectacular sunrises as the first light hits Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre. After breakfast back in Ghorepani, trek through a high ridge forest to Tadapani. Walking time: 6–7 hours.

04 Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m)

A relatively easy day descending through the forest. Ghandruk is one of the most famous Gurung villages in Nepal, known for its traditional stone houses and incredible views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Spend the afternoon exploring the village and the local museum. Walking time: 3–4 hours.

05 Ghandruk → Nayapul → Drive to Pokhara (827m)

The final day of trekking takes you down stone steps through terraced fields to the Modi Khola river. Reach Nayapul by midday, where your vehicle awaits for the 1.5-hour drive back to Pokhara. Celebrate your successful trek by the lakeside! Walking time: 4–5 hours.

Trip Cost

From $450 / person

What's Included

Professional local trekking guide and porter
ACAP permit and TIMS card
Round-trip private transportation (Pokhara–Nayapul)
Accommodation in teahouses / lodges during trek
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
Medical kit and emergency coordination

What's Excluded

International/Domestic airfare and travel insurance
Accommodation and meals in Pokhara/Kathmandu
Personal expenses (Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers)
Tips for guide and porter (Expected)
Bar bills and bottled water/beverages

Gallery

Visions of the Annapurna Foothills

Iconic Poon Hill Sunrise

Enchanted Forests

Gurung Heritage

Himalayan Vistas

Common Questions

Ghorepani Poon Hill FAQs

Quick answers for your short Himalayan adventure

How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?

It is considered an easy to moderate trek. The most challenging part is the ascent of the stone stairs to Ulleri on Day 1. It is suitable for beginners and families with children who have a reasonable level of fitness.

Is there a high risk of altitude sickness?

The maximum altitude is 3,210m at Poon Hill. While mild symptoms like shortness of breath can occur during the climb, the risk of serious altitude sickness (AMS) is very low compared to high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp.

What is the best time for this trek?

The best times are Spring (March-May) for blooming rhododendron forests and Autumn (Sept-Nov) for crystal clear mountain views. Because of its lower altitude, it's also a great choice for Winter trekking (Dec-Feb).

Do I need a guide for this trek?

While the trails are well-marked, we strongly recommend a professional guide. They provide valuable cultural insights, handle logistics, and ensure your safety. For solo travelers, a guide is often mandatory in many trekking regions of Nepal.

What permits are required?

You need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and a TIMS card. We handle both of these for you and they are included in our package price.

Reviews

What Our Trekkers Say

★★★★★

"An absolutely life-changing experience. The organization was top-notch and the views were beyond description."

D

David L.Sydney, Australia