Overview
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered one of the best trekking trails in Nepal, situated in the Annapurna area of Gandaki Province. The majority of the itineraries usually involve a travel from Pokhara to Nayapul or any other trailhead accessible by road, followed by walking on foot through villages, terraced slopes and mountain tracks surrounded by forests.
One of the key features of the trail is the steep stone steps leading up to the village of Ulleri. After this part of the trail, hikers move ahead in the direction of the trail through the forests of oak and rhododendrons towards Ghorepani village.
The most important site of interest is the sunrise view point at around 3,210 metres above sea level. With clear skies early in the morning, tourists can spot Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other mountains of the Himalayas shining in their first rays of sunlight.
Further trips follow the path to Tadapani and Ghandruk, an important Gurung village famous for its architectural history. The route back depends on the chosen itinerary and road access.
Rhododendrons generally bloom in the springtime, and one can view beautiful mountain views in the autumn. Weather conditions may become unpredictable, and rainfall, fog or even snowfall may hamper visibility or even hiking. The hike is shorter compared to other trails within the Himalayas, but it involves uphill hiking.
Highlights
- Poon Hill sunrise
- Ghorepani village
- Rhododendron forests
- Traditional stone stairways
- Ghandruk village
- Himalayan mountain panoramas
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Pokhara to Tikhedhunga
Road: approximately 1.5–2 hours · Trek: 8–10 km · 4–5 hours Drive towards Nayapul or a nearby trailhead, then walk through villages, farmland and forested hills to Tikhedhunga or Hile. Stay overnight in a teahouse.
- 2
Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
12–13 km · 6–7 hours Climb the famous stone steps towards Ulleri, then continue through oak and rhododendron forest via Banthanti and Nangethanti. Reach Ghorepani, around 2,860 m.
- 3
Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani
Approximately 10–12 km, including viewpoint return · 6–7 hours Set out early for sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m), with views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre on clear days. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek through forest and over Deurali towards Tadapani, around 2,630 m.
- 4
Tadapani to Ghandruk
6–8 km · 3–4 hours Descend through forest and terraced hillsides to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village known for its stone houses and mountain views. Explore the village and stay overnight.
- 5
Ghandruk to Pokhara
Optional 8–12 km descent · 4–5 hours, then road transfer Walk down towards the roadhead near Kimche or Syauli Bazaar, depending on the route, and drive back to Pokhara. If you prefer a shorter trek, arrange a local vehicle from Ghandruk.
Things to Carry
Trek reviews
Reviews are opening soon for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Share the route, season, difficulty, and trail experience.
