Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Poon Hill sunrise is the end reward for hundreds of trekkers every year and is a lasting memory they’ll carry with them after completing the journey.

When you arrive at the Poon Hill observation point in time before sunrise, it feels as if you’re entering another world.

The coolness in the air and the peaceful nature of the trek create a mood that seems surreal as you look up at the night sky at thousands of bright stars.

As you make your way towards the top, you can see the little lights like glowing fireflies, each reaching for the same prize.

The first light will transform everything; the view will go from the dark, snow-capped Himalayan peaks to shades of pink, then golden and finally to bright daylight.

The views are extensive and breathtaking across Mount Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail), Mount Annapurna South, Mount Hiunchuli, Mount Nilgiri and so many layered mountain ranges beyond.

For photographers seeking a great sunrise photo location, this spot is among the best in all of Nepal.

For trekkers, this sunrise is an amazing reminder of why the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is so popular worldwide and also serves as an incredible moment of growth and character-building throughout the entire trek.

Many trekkers have a bonding experience at Poon Hill through this morning sunrise event.

The way to Nayapul, the starting point for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, is an easy and picturesque journey that allows for great flexibility based on individual preferences.

Many trekkers begin from Kathmandu; however, some start directly from Pokhara if they are already in the Annapurna region.

The method of transportation you choose will also affect the total Poonhill Trek cost.

All modes of transport (airplane, tourist bus, private jeep) will have different costs.

Kathmandu to Pokhara – Begin Your Journey in the Himalayas

Your trip to Nayapul will begin with a short flight or via ground transfer.

Flying to Pokhara will be your quickest and most comfortable way to start your journey, taking approximately 25-30 minutes.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly way to travel to Pokhara, taking a tourist bus via the Prithivi Highway could take 6-8 hours and would allow you to see beautiful scenery.

You will see rivers, mountains, terraced farms and hillside communities.

It would be the first glimpse of what trekking in Nepal will be like.

Nayapul – The Official Trek Start Point

The 2-3 hour journey from Pokhara to Nayapul gives adventurers access to the Poon Hill Trek.

This leg of the drive offers continuous excellent views of the mountains, with the scenery growing in beauty as you draw closer to your destination.

Your package will include transportation by private jeep transfer.

Travelling to Nayapul is only the first step; you will cross suspension bridges, visit Magar and Gurung communities, and climb steadily toward the villages of Ulleri and Ghorepani.

The Poon Hill Trek difficulty is among the simplest yet most rewarding treks for novices to explore Nepal’s beautiful Himalayas.

This is why it’s an amazing opportunity for first-time trekkers, families or those looking for an incredible adventure with a reasonable amount of work.

The path is well-maintained and clearly marked and the daily walks are moderate enough for nearly every type of traveller to acclimatise naturally to the low elevation found on this trek.

Is Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Suitable for a Newbie Trekker?

Of course!

This is one of the best beginner trekking options in Nepal due to its moderate terrain, moderate forest trails, very gradual ascents and easily managed stone staircases.

The only challenging section of the trek is the climb through Ulleri; however, even this can be enjoyable if trekkers maintain a steady pace.

People who have a normal fitness level should be able to complete this trek comfortably.

Altitude Gain, Trail Conditions and Safety Considerations

The maximum elevation of the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is 3,210 metres, so the risk of altitude sickness is low on this route.

You gain elevation slowly and safely by sleeping at lower altitudes than Poon Hill, such as Ghorepani and Tadapani and quickly descending from the viewpoint once you’ve reached it.

The trail itself is well established and well marked, having been used by trekkers and locals for many years.

The route takes you through rhododendron trees, along ridges and down natural stone steps, touching very respectable terrain and is safe for all ages.

With your licensed guide monitoring the weather and health conditions, the route is safe to trek year-round except during heavy rain.

Poon Hill Trek Fitness Requirements

Basic walking endurance adds much enjoyment to the experience.

This is what will help:

You should be able to sustain a moderate pace while walking for three to four hours without becoming excessively fatigued, as the majority of trekking days follow similar patterns.

Your ability to comfortably ascend small hills, like Ulleri, will enable you to approach this section positively and enjoyably, rather than sprinting to the top.

Your positive attitude and consistent walking pace will be greater indicators of success than sheer physical fitness and will help you stay motivated through the trek.

You do not need to have previous trekking experience. Thousands of first-time trekkers complete this itinerary annually without issue.

How to Prepare for the Trek?

Two or three weeks of light training will greatly enhance your trekking experience to Poon Hill.

You can try the following training for trek:

Walk for 30 to 45 minutes daily. Increase this time to 60 to 90 minutes slowly to develop your basic stamina.

Practice steps and/or stairs in a controlled, gradual manner to prepare for Ulleri’s legendary steps.

Strengthening your legs through squats, lunges, calf raises and step-ups will provide a cushioning effect for your knees while going up and down hills.

The best time to do the Poonhill trek is during Spring and Autumn.

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is a stunning trek throughout every season, however, your experience while trekking will be highly impacted by when you travel.

Since this trek is also well known for its sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountains, the time of year that you choose to do this trek can enhance your trip memories.

The weather, visibility, blooming times of flowers and number of people on the route vary by month; therefore, you must understand the seasons so you can plan your trek accordingly.

Autumn (Sept – Nov):

Autumn has the best weather for trekking since it is very stable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 5°C.

Within the month following the end of the monsoon season, the air becomes clean and crisp and the visibility of the mountains will be incredibly sharp.

Autumn also provides the best conditions for sunrise photography from Poon Hill.

Spring (March – May):

Spring has moderate to high daytime temperatures (10°C to 20°C), dropping to approximately 5°C at night.

The Rhododendron forests burst into bloom, painting the Annapurna region with red, pink and white flowers throughout this season.

The skies remain clear, allowing for great visibility of the sunrise and creating a perfect environment for relaxed trekking.

Winter (Dec to Feb)

In winter, even though it can be cold, it’s also serene and peaceful while trekking.

The temperature during the day generally stays between 5°C and 10°C; however, at nighttime the temperature can drop below 0°C (like in Ghorepani).

Due to snowfall (which collects on the trees and ridgelines) the views of the mountains during sunrise are so much more magical.

Since fewer people are trekking and all the landscape is quiet, winter is the best time to have a calm experience in the Himalayas with some additional warm clothing.

Monsoon (June to August)

During monsoon season temperatures are still relatively warm (15°C to 22°C); however, heavy rain, overcast conditions and high humidity make up most of this season.

Trails become slippery during this time and there are leeches in the forest, so generally, the mountain views are obscured.

However, during the monsoon season, the landscape is full of lush vegetation and refreshing waterfalls, making it an excellent time for people who enjoy greenery and hiking in the rain.

All visitors to Nepal wishing to travel into the Annapurna region must first acquire two official trek permits. 

All the appropriate Poon Hill trek permits are designed to ensure travellers’ safety, support conservation initiatives and keep records of all hikers and their location during the trek. 

Nepal Base Camp Trekkers handles all your paperwork so you can spend your time focusing on the adventure. 

ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit 

Entering Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani and the Annapurna Conservation Area is not allowed without having an ACAP permit. 

The cost for a foreigner is NPR 3,000, which equates to about USD 22-25 (depending on the current exchange rate).

For hikers from SAARC countries, the permit costs NPR 1,500 and Nepali citizens don’t need it.

Money generated through this fee is used directly to maintain the tracks, protect forests and support community development projects within the Annapurna region. 

Along the route to Poon Hill, there are several checkpoints to ensure every hiker possesses an ACAP.

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS card)

The TIMS card is important because it enables authorities to keep track of trekkers for security and monitoring purposes.

The price of a TIMS card is NPR 2000 (approximately USD 15) for guided trekkers with a licensed trekking agency and NPR 1000 (about USD 8) for independent trekkers.

Nepali citizens don’t require this card while trekking in Nepal.

Registering your trek with the TIMS system ensures that emergency support can be provided rapidly when required and provides a record of your trek route throughout the Annapurna region.

Where Can I Obtain and Verify Trekking Permits?

Trekking permits for ACAP and TIMS can be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board office or in Pokhara at the ACAP office in Lakeside.

When trekking with Nepal Base Camp Treks, our staff will manage all aspects of the process, including filling out forms, taking photographs, making payments and verifying the necessary documents.

You will not have to wait in line or deal with all the paperwork yourself.

You will need to show permits at the checkpoints in Nayapul, Ghorepani and Ghandruk.

Can both permits be acquired within one day?

Yes, both permits can be acquired in a single session and generally take 20-30 minutes, assuming you arrive during normal office hours.

Logistically, travelers who either fly into Kathmandu or close out their stay in Pokhara can obtain their permits and start the Poon Hill Trek on the same day.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek Nepal is a popular tea house trek that allows you to experience the hospitality of local communities as well as a combination of Himalayan tea houses and warm meals.

At every stage of the journey, whether it be Hille, Tadapani, Ghandruk or Ghorepani, you’ll find comfortable, clean rooms and hearty meals, all with the charm of a small mountain village.

This is not a luxury tour; this trek is about the authentic teahouse experience in the Annapurna region and enjoying each night with delicious food, thick blankets and beautiful views of snow-covered mountains.

Accommodation in Ghorepani, Tadapani, Ghandruk

Accommodation on this trek is basic but comfortable mountain lodges equipped with twin beds, clean bedding, warm blankets and communal bathrooms.

Ghorepani’s tea houses are conveniently located near the Poon Hill viewpoint, where you can see sunrise; Tadapani, on the other hand, offers forest-related accommodations with dramatic views of the ridge.

Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in Nepal, with traditional stone houses and large rooms with views of both Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

You can expect reliable electricity in the dining halls, access to hot showers for a small fee and a warm, cosy wood-burning stove in the dining room during the winter months.

Trekking Meals – Fresh Local Cuisine Designed for Trekking

The daily meals served on the trek follow the traditional trekking meal model in Nepal, featuring fresh, high-energy foods specifically prepared for long walking days.

For breakfast, the tea houses will provide porridge, Tibetan bread, eggs, pancakes and either hot tea or coffee.

For lunch and dinner, you can enjoy the world-renowned Dal Bhat Power 24 hours a day, as well as momos, fried rice, noodles, soups, pasta and vegetable curry made from locally sourced produce.

You will also be served teas on the trail, including herbal teas, ginger lemon honey and boiled drinking water, which is safe for hydration.

Whether you’re dining in the crowded dining halls of Ghorepani or the quiet forest lodges of Tadapani, each meal gives you the fuel you need to complete your trek through the Annapurna Foothills and keep you energized for the next day’s trek.

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek comprises multiple routes, which makes it very popular among beginning trekkers, families, photographers and people looking for a short Himalayan trekking experience.

Each route passes through beautiful traditional villages, rhododendron forests and viewpoints of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

Below are the best and most scenic routes that you can choose based on your available time and what you prefer:

Classic Ghorepani Poon Hill Loop (Recommended)

Pokhara → Nayapul → Ulleri → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani → Ghandruk → Pokhara

The classic Ghorepani Poon Hill loop is the most well-known route for the Ghorepani Poonhill trekking in Nepal, giving trekkers a perfect blend of culture, nature and spectacular Himalayan views.

Starting at Nayapul, the trail is fairly flat until the ascent up the Ulleri Stone Steps, which is the most famous section of the classic loop.

On the second evening of your trek, you’ll arrive in Ghorepani and then hike to Poon Hill (3210m) in the early morning hours to catch the stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

The trail continues down through Tadapani and Ghandruk, which takes you back into lush forests with waterfalls and through the traditional Gurung Villages after the trek.

This well-paced route provides a full experience of Poon Hill Nepal and is the default route in our package.

Reverse Ghandruk → Tadapani → Ghorepani Route (Smooth Start & Less Crowded)

Pokhara → Ghandruk → Tadapani → Ghorepani → Ulleri → Nayapul

The reverse poonhill trek itinerary is more appropriate for those who are looking for a more gentle start to their trek than the start at Ulleri.

Rather than immediately climbing the super steep staircase at Ulleri on day 1, you start in Ghandruk and move slowly up through the forests to Tadapani and Ghorepani.

As a result, there are fewer people on the trails and the trek feels more gradual.

And, you get to witness the incredible sunrise viewed from Poon Hill.

The reverse poonhill option also works well for families, for people who like to trek slowly and for anyone who prefers to avoid the crowds on the way up.

Ghorepani Poon Hill with Jhinu Hot Springs (Relaxing Add-On)

Tadapani → Jhinu → Hot Springs → Nayapul

For those who prefer to finish their trek in a more relaxed way, it’s an extension of the original date

After being through with 4-5 days of trekking, soaking in the warm water of the free-flowing river feels amazing!

Even though this is slightly longer than the average poonhill trek, the people who wish to have a recovery day before returning to Pokhara will find it works well for them.

With Nepal Base Camp treks, you can customize your trek to combine the Annapurna Base Camp trek with the Ghorepani Poonhill trek.

An essential part of preparing for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is to pack your bag correctly.

You should be prepared for the weather to change rapidly from warmer villages at lower elevations through Ghorepani’s cooler climate, then transition through windy Poon Hill and into cooler evenings at Tadapani.

These essentials ensure a comfortable experience on the Annapurna trail, regardless of the time of year.

You can read the detailed blog on the packing list for Poonhill here.

Clothes You Will Need to Hike the Poon Hill Trek

Layering is key while on this trek since temperatures will change dramatically from morning to evening.

2–3 moisture-wicking hiking shirts (dry quickly and keep you dry while walking).

A warm fleece jacket will help you stay warm in the evening hours at Ghorepani and Tadapani.

A down jacket will keep you warm on your hike up to Poon Hill for the sunrise.

A windproof and waterproof jacket will protect you from mountain winds and surprise rain.

2 pairs of trekking pants (zip-off if possible) for flexibility while traversing along forest trails and up/over stone steps.

Thermal base layer clothes will be needed for your morning hike at higher elevations.

Warm gloves, a wool hat and a buff/neck gaiter will be needed for cold temperatures while on Poon Hill.

Footwear and Accessories for Steep Trails

The paths you will travel include forest, rock steps and an uneven section of the trail.

Your feet must be supported appropriately.

1. Well broken-in (water-resistant) boots for hiking are needed.
2. Your boots should be used for Ulleri’s 3,000 + steps (up and down).
3. 2-3 pairs (moisture-wicking) trekking socks are important to reduce moisture and prevent blisters.
4. Lightweight camp shoes or sandals are good to wear when relaxing at the tea houses.
5. Trekkers should use trekking poles to stabilize themselves during steep climbs and descents.
6. A pair of sunglasses and a hat.

Essential Trekking Gear for the Annapurna Region

These items will provide safety, warmth and preparedness for your time while trekking.

1. Carry a 25 – 35 L backpack with a rain cover to carry your food and water while hiking the Poon Hill trek.
2. You will need to have a sleeping bag with a temperature rating of -5 to -10c, especially helpful for winter hikes.
3. Make sure to have a good flashlight to use when hiking to see the sunrise from the top of Poon Hill.
4. Bring water bottles (or a bladder) that can hold at least 2 litres of liquid.
5. Bring a filtration tablet and a filter to have drinkable water while trekking.
6. Have a power bank or solar charger for the limited number of places with electricity at Tadapani and Ghorepani.
7. Bring a basic first-aid kit with altitude sickness, blister care, colds, etc.

Toiletries, Hygiene and Required Documents

Items that are small in size, but can assist you in a big way on the Poon Hill trek in Nepal.

1. Biodegradable soap/shampoo that is eco-friendly to wash with
2. You need to cover your skin from the strong mountain sun with Sunscreen SPF 50+ and lip balm
3. Wet Wipes & Toilet Paper – do not expect many facilities along the route
4. Hand Sanitizer will help maintain hygiene while hiking
5. Personal medication that is required for your safety (Diamox medicine for altitude can come in handy as well)
6. Passport Copies, Passport-size Photos, ACAP Permit and TIMS Card (your guide will manage these documents)
7. Bring enough cash in NPR for snacks, tea, charging fees and small items (there will be no ATMs along the route!).

A Ghorepani Poonhill trek is not the longest or hardest trek you will do, but following these additional tips will make your trekking experience easier, safer and more enjoyable.

These trekking tips are based on years of experience guiding people who have completed treks through Poon Hill.

These tips offer you the confidence to hike the steep stone steps at Ulleri, to take the early morning trek to view the sunrise and to undertake the long hike through the forests.

Whether trekking alone with a guide, joining an organised group trek or travelling with family, these suggestions will enhance the entire experience in the Himalayas.

Start Your Trek to Poon Hill Early to Catch the Sunrise.

The trek to the sunrise viewpoint can get crowded, so plan to leave between 4.30 and 5 am to secure the best spots for pictures and avoid the crowds.

Since this hike will be in the dark and cold temperatures, make sure you take a good headlamp and warm clothing.

Get Yourself Some Trekking Poles to Help You Up and Down the Steps of Ulleri.

Ulleri has over 3000 steps, which can be tough.

Using trekking poles helps distribute the weight on your knees, improves your balance and makes it much easier to get down the steps, especially when the ground is wet or uneven, which is common on the hill trekking trails in Nepal.

Pre-ordered meals for tea houses

During periods of heavy trekking traffic, it is recommended to order your dinner and breakfast upon arrival at the tea house.

By doing so, it allows the tea house time to prepare your meal fresh and on time.

This is an effective way to avoid waiting for your meals and conserve your energy as you trek.

Carry a small thermos for the morning hike

A thermos full of hot ginger tea will help keep your body warm while trekking to see the sunrise.

It will also be significantly less expensive than stopping at multiple locations along the Ghorepani Poon Hill route to purchase hot tea.

Use earplugs and an eye mask to help you sleep better

Many tea houses have thin walls and many trekkers depart for their treks at the same time, which means you will probably hear many conversations before you can fall asleep.

Earplugs can help reduce noise, especially in Ghorepani and Tadapani, where rooms are very close together.

Keep a power bank with you

Because electricity is scarce in the high-altitude tea houses, it’s important to keep a charged power bank with you to ensure your phone, camera and headlamp will continue to work during the Poon Hill Trek in Nepal.

Bring soap sheets and tissues

Many tea houses won’t provide toiletries, so soap sheets and tissues are both compact and very useful while trekking through the Himalayas.

Guides are now required by law

According to the new trekking regulations issued by the government of Nepal, solo trekking is no longer allowed in the Annapurna region.

As per these new regulations, you need to trek with a licensed guide or trekking agency for your protection and to navigate through the Himalayas.

If you are thinking about doing the Poon Hill Trek, you are probably asking yourself, “Do we need a guide for the poonhill trek?”

The answer is yes.

Starting with the new Nepal trekking regulations, all foreigners who trek to Annapurna will now be required to have an authorised guide.

Regardless of the new rule, having a guide will make your trek to Annapurna safer, easier and more enjoyable than trekking on your own.

The Advantages of Trekking with a Guide

When you go on a trek, a guide takes care of concerns, such as trekking permits, tea house bookings, meal scheduling and ensuring you stay on the right track throughout your Poon Hill trek.

Local guides know the area like their backyard, the various routes through the area and where the best views of the mountains are.

They will help you wake up early for the hike and help you find the best viewpoints.

During your trek, they will keep you at a safe pace and keep track of your water consumption.

Guides will help you remain safe while trekking through steep sections, such as during the Ulleri Steps and through changes in weather.

They will also share information about the culture and people of the Annapurna region, enriching your experience of that area.

Can You Trek Alone or Only with a Group?

Now, when it comes to trekking, solo treks are out of the conversation.

If you try to go alone, you will hit several checkpoints, where you will be turned away from the trek until you find a guide.

However, the same doesn’t apply for a private guided trek, as you can go at your own pace and stop when you feel like taking a break.

You will have plenty of free time to enjoy your trek to Poon Hill, which is also known as Chhomrong.

If you are looking for companionship, group treks can be fun.

You can meet other trekkers who have similar interests, share expenses and spend the evenings in tea houses with other trek partners, enjoying a more social experience.

Many families and friends prefer this kind of trekking arrangement, as it makes the experience even more memorable.

You cannot forget about carrying your belongings (heavy bags).

That is a huge plus when you have a porter.

They help carry the heavy bags, so you can get out and enjoy the trekking experience of rhododendron forests, wildflowers and fantastic views of the sunrise while you are fresh and relaxed.