Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 6 Days

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The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular short trek in Nepal, which provides a scenic sunrise view over the Dhaulagiri & Annapurna Ranges. This standard Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek takes 6 days to complete. To do this trek, an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit is required. Moreover, the best time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is Spring & Autumn seasons. The Ghorepani Poon trek is of easy to moderate difficulty, with all kinds of people, from Kids to old citizens, can do it. The 6 Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek costs USD 580 per person. 

  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration6 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max. Altitude3210 meters
  • Starts/EndsKathmandu/Kathmandu
  • Trip StyleTrekking
  • Group SizeMin. 1 Pax.
  • Best SeasonSpring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Early sunrise view striking over the mountains from Poon Hill.
  • Spectacular views of panoramic mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Mt. Fishtail, Hiuchuli, etc.
  • Amazing hospitality of the Gurung community.
  • Hike through the green lush forests, store stairs, and suspension bridges.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the best beginner-friendly treks in Nepal, taking around 6 days to complete. This 6-day itinerary is ideal for first-time trekkers because it offers a comfortable pace, scenic village routes, and lower altitude risk.

The highlight is the sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m), showcasing the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges without extreme difficulty. Trekkers find the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek easy in terms of difficulty level. You will trek through the gentle trail of rhododendron forests and traditional villages.

Mountain Eco Trails, as a government-authorised trekking company, has led this trek 20+ times with expert guides. You can confidently book this trek with us as our expert guides have 10+ years of experience on this Ghorepani Trek Route. Boon Today.

Quick Facts About Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 6 Days

Feature

Details

Duration

6 Days

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Max Altitude

3,210m (Poon Hill)

Best For

Beginners, families, couples

Start/End

Kathmandu – Kathmandu

Walking Hours

4–6 hours per day

Region

Annapurna

Highlights

Sunrise, Gurung villages, forests

Is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Worth It?

Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is worth it. This trek is widely considered the best short trek in Nepal for beginners.

Unlike Everest or Annapurna Base Camp, this trek gives you a true Himalayan experience without the risks of high altitude. You walk through charming villages, dense rhododendron forests, and terraced landscapes before reaching one of the most famous viewpoints in Nepal.

The sunrise from Poon Hill is unforgettable. As the first light hits Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri, the mountains glow in golden colour. It feels like a reward earned without pushing your limits too far.

This is why many trekkers choose Poon Hill as their first Himalayan journey.

Who Is This 6-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Best For?

โœ” Perfect For:

  • First-time trekkers
  • Travellers with 6-7 days in Nepal
  • Couples and families
  • Beginner hikers with basic fitness
  • People looking for scenic but safe trekking

โŒ Not Ideal For:

  • Experienced trekkers seeking a challenge
  • High-altitude adventure lovers
  • Remote wilderness seekers

If your goal is to experience the Himalayas without stress, this trek is perfect.

6-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Difficulty (Realistic Insight)

The trek is rated easy to moderate, but there are a few challenges.

๐Ÿ”น How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek really?

Most days involve 4–6 hours of walking on well-marked trails. There is no technical climbing.

๐Ÿ”น The hardest part of the 6 Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Itinerary

The Ulleri section includes 3,000+ stone steps. This is the toughest part for most trekkers.

๐Ÿ”น Can beginners do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in 6 Days?

Yes. With basic fitness, most people complete it successfully.

๐Ÿ”น Fitness tips

  • Walk regularly before the trek
  • Practice uphill hiking
  • Build stamina, not speed

This trek is more about consistency than strength.

Route Overview, Distance & Trek Flow

The trek follows a classic route in the Annapurna region.

๐Ÿ”น Route Summary

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

๐Ÿ”น Total Distance of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Approximately 40–50 km

๐Ÿ”น Daily Walking

4 to 6 hours

You will pass through:

  • Forest trails
  • Traditional villages
  • Stone staircases
  • Scenic ridgelines

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Cost for 2026, 2027

The cost depends on services, group size, and trekking style. Mountain Eco Trails offers this trek with the cost starting from USD 580 per person for single trekkers. Whereas, there is a discount on the price if you are in a group of more than 3 pax. Feel free to contact us via email or WhatsApp us for more cost details, inclusions, & exclusion. 

Average Cost Range

USD 400 – USD 900 per person

Component

Cost

Guide

$25–35/day

Accommodation

$5–10/night

Meals

$25–30/day

Permits

$30

Transport

$20–100

Administrative cost and Taxes

$100-120

Ready to Trek? Book with Mountain Eco Trails

Embarking on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is easier and more rewarding when you have the right team supporting you. Mountain Eco Trails is here to turn your trekking dreams into reality. With our expert local guides, eco-friendly approach, and attention to every detail, we ensure your Poon Hill experience is safe, seamless, and unforgettable. Contact us for more details or WhatsApp at +9779849790153.  

Itinerary

Your adventure begins with a scenic journey from Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, to the lakeside city of Pokhara. Most travelers opt for the tourist bus that departs early (around 7:00 am) from Kathmandu. It’s a drive of roughly 200 km, taking about 7 hours with a lunch stop. The drive is an experience in itself – you’ll follow the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers, passing green hills, terraced fields, and glimpses of rural Nepali life. If the weather is clear, keep an eye out in the distance for snow-clad peaks teasing the horizon as you approach Pokhara. Optional: If you prefer a quicker trip, flights are available from Kathmandu to Pokhara that take only about half an hour, offering aerial views of the Himalayas.

  • Max Altitude:800 meters
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast

 

Fuel up with an early breakfast in Pokhara. The guide will come to your hotel with a driver, then short drive to the trailhead. You’ll travel by private Vehicle to Nayapul (approx. 1,070 m), which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours from Pokhara. The road winds through scenic countryside and small towns before descending to Nayapul by the Modi Khola River. At Nayapul, you’ll likely stop at the ACAP checkpoint to show your permits (more on permits later), and then it’s time to start walking!

The trek kicks off with an easy walk along a dirt road following the Modi Khola. You’ll pass through Birethanti, a riverside village with a bustling checkpoint where trekkers’ permits are registered. Crossing a suspension bridge over the Burundi Khola, the trail officially splits off the road and begins to gently ascend through terraced farmlands. You’ll hike through scattered villages like Hile or Tikhedhunga, where you can stop for lunch. Enjoy your first meal on the trail – perhaps dal bhat (the classic lentil curry with rice) to power you up the hill!

After lunch, the trail gets steeper as you approach Ulleri. You’ll cross a long steel suspension bridge over a stream just before Tikhedhunga. After crossing the Suspension bridge, steep staircases await you, which can be challenging on the 1st day. Climb around 3200 staircases to arrive at Ulleri for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude:1480 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast around 7 in the morning, the trek begins right after following the lush green forests. You’ll trek through Banthanti (2,250 m) and Nangethanti (2,460 m) – small settlements often used as rest/lunch stops. The landscape transitions into a lovely rhododendron and oak forest. In spring, these forests are ablaze with rhododendron blooms, carpeting the trail in petals. Keep an eye out for wildlife; you might see monkeys swinging in the trees or colorful birds flitting about. As you gain altitude, the air gets crisper and cooler.

After lunch (depending on your pace, you might eat at Banthanti or press on to Nangethanti for a late lunch), you’ll tackle the last segment to Ghorepani. The trail once again climbs a bit steeply through dense woods. You’ll know you’re getting close when you start seeing hints of snow peaks through the trees. Finally, the forest opens up to a wide saddle – welcome to Ghorepani!

Ghorepani (2,874 m) is a charming village spread across a ridgeline, divided into Lower and Upper Ghorepani. The name “Ghorepani” means “horse water” – it was a stopping point for mule and horse caravans. These days, it’s a major trekking crossroads with numerous blue-roofed lodges catering to trekkers. If you arrive in mid-afternoon and the weather is clear, you might already catch a glimpse of the mountains, especially Annapurna South and Nilgiri, from the upper part of the village. Many lodges have open yards or balconies positioned to view the sunset on the peaks. It’s a magical sight to see the 7,000+ m giants turning pink and orange in the evening light.

  • Max Altitude:2860 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:6-7 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This day starts on a literal high note! Before dawn, in the cold darkness, you’ll join throngs of fellow trekkers for the hike up to Poon Hill. At around 5:15–5:30 am, you’ll Hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m). Despite the early hour, you won’t be alone – this viewpoint is famous for good reason. There’s a viewing tower and plenty of space along the ridge to find your perfect vantage. As dawn breaks, prepare for one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Nepal. One by one, the peaks come into view: directly west, the massive bulk of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and its neighboring peaks Tukuche and Dhampus; to the north, the entire Annapurna Range including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic fishtail of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m); further east, if clear, you might even spot Manaslu and Ganesh Himal on the distant horizon.

After roughly an hour on Poon Hill, you’ll head back down to Ghorepani for breakfast. By 7:30–8:00 am, you’ll be on the trail again, continuing your trek towards Tadapani. The route today starts with another ascent (in case your legs hadn’t had enough!). From Ghorepani, you climb about 200 m to Deurali Pass (3,200 m), which is along a wooded ridge. This is almost as high as Poon Hill, so you’ll get bonus mountain views during the climb if the trees part. After reaching this high point, the trail begins a long descent on the other side.

A few hours in, you’ll reach Banthanti (another one – common name!), where many stop for lunch. Enjoy your meal with perhaps a view of Machhapuchhre peeking between the valley if you’re lucky. Post-lunch, the trail undulates – one more short climb to gain a ridge, and then you’re finally descending into Tadapani (2,630 m). After descind for an hour, another uphill climb will arrive at Tadhapani for an overnight stay.

  • Max Altitude:3210 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:6-7 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a relatively short and relaxing trekking day, which is welcome after the previous two challenging days. After breakfast in Tadapani, you’ll begin the trek downhill to Ghandruk. The trail drops steeply at first through dense forests – almost primeval in feel, with moss-covered trunks and the sounds of birds echoing. On a clear morning, you might catch occasional glimpses of Annapurna South or Machhapuchhre through gaps in the trees, reminding you of the giants looming above.

Arrive in Ghandruk (1,940 m) by late morning or midday. Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village with slate-roofed houses and tidy stone lanes. It’s a contrast to the tiny trail stop of Tadapani – here you’ll find a relative bustle of village life, a small museum, a Buddhist monastery, schools, and more substantial guesthouses. The backdrop of the village is jaw-dropping: Annapurna South and Hiunchuli stand directly to the north, seemingly just a stone’s throw away, and Machhapuchhre’s triangular peak peeks over a ridge.

A private jeep can be arranged easily (your guide will typically sort this out) and takes around 3 hours to reach Pokhara. The road is rough and bumpy until Nayapul, then paved. While not the most comfortable ride, it saves you a lot of time and impact on the knees. You’ll descend those 1,000 m in a vehicle rather than on foot! If you take a jeep around mid-morning, you can be in Pokhara by lunchtime. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

  • Max Altitude:850 Meters
  • Accommodation:3-Star Hotel
  • Time:4-5 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, & Lunch

After a memorable short and easy trek in Nepal to Ghorepani, now time to get back to Kathmandu. As per the schedule of the tourist bus, the trekking guide will help you to reach at the Bus station. Follow the same highway you came from the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, enjoying the riverside views and the traditional villages. Upon reaching the last station of station, you will be transferred to your hotel in a taxi by our guide.

Later in the evening, we will have a farewell dinner to listen after your story about the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in the Annapurna Region.

  • Max Altitude:1350 meters
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:7-8 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast

The outlined itinerary has been carefully designed to provide a well-balanced trekking experience, incorporating key highlights, acclimatization considerations, and a comfortable pace for most trekkers. However, we understand that each individual or group may have unique interests, time constraints, fitness levels, and travel goals.

To accommodate these varying needs, we offer full flexibility in customizing the itinerary. Modifications can be made in the following areas:

Duration: The number of trekking days can be extended or shortened depending on your available timeframe.

Pace & Difficulty: We can adjust daily walking distances and rest days to better suit your fitness level or acclimatization needs.

Route Alteration: Alternative trails or side trips (such as cultural villages, scenic viewpoints, or lesser-known paths) can be added or replaced based on your preferences.

Accommodation Style: We offer options ranging from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges where available.

Interests & Focus: Whether you’re more inclined toward photography, nature, cultural experiences, or spiritual exploration, the itinerary can be fine-tuned accordingly.

If you have any special requests or would like to discuss a personalized trekking plan, please feel free to contact us. Our team will be happy to assist in designing a journey that best aligns with your expectations.

Cost Includes
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu Tourist Bus Fare 
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit Card. 
  • Pokhara 2-night accommodation in a 3-star Hotel before and after the trek with BB plan. 
  • English-speaking government-licensed Trekking Guide. 
  • Expenses of the guide, including his salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance. 
  • Pokhara to Nayapul in a private car.
  • Ghandruk to Pokhara in a private Jeep. 
  • Meals during the trek (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 Dinners)
  • Accommodation during the trek on a sharing basis. 
  • Seasonal fruits every day after dinner. 
  • Trekking Poles ( As a complimentary) 
  • Government & Local Taxes
Cost Excludes
  • Drinks and personal expenses during the trek 
  • Rescue evacuation if needed
  • Travel Insurance 
  • Lunch and Dinner in Pokhara 
  • Porter costs (If needed, USD 20 per day)
  • Tips for Guide and Porter
  • Extra days in the mountains due to bad weather or extension of the trip to another destination. 
Availability

At Mountain Eco Trails, we understand that every traveller has unique schedules and preferences. That’s why we offer flexible departure dates for all our trekking and tour packages. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a group, we can customise your trekking departure date to best fit your itinerary.

  • Customised Departures for Your Convenience
  • Tailor-made departure dates: You are not limited to fixed schedules; we arrange treks based on your preferred dates.
  • Private & group treks available: Join an existing group or plan a private trek at your convenience.
  • Seasonal recommendations: We can suggest the best departure dates based on weather, trekking conditions, and your availability.
  • Short-notice departures: Need a last-minute trek? We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

Feel free to contact us with your preferred dates, and we’ll craft the perfect trekking experience for you!

Select a Departure Month
Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: SundayApr 19, 2026End DateEnds: FridayApr 24, 2026PricePriceUS$580StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SundayApr 26, 2026End DateEnds: FridayMay 01, 2026PricePriceUS$580StatusStatusAvailable
Good to Know

 6-Day vs 4-Day vs 3-Day Poon Hill Trek

This is where most travellers get confused.

6-Day Trek 

  • Best for beginners
  • Comfortable pace
  • Less fatigue
  • Kathmandu to Kathmandu

4-Day Trek

  • Faster itinerary
  • Starts from Pokhara
  • Moderate difficulty

3-Day Trek

  • Very rushed
  • Physically demanding
  • Not ideal for beginners

If you are unsure, always choose the 6-day version for a better experience and safety.

Booking Your Trek with Mountain Eco Trails

When it comes to organising the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, choosing the right trekking company can enhance your experience enormously. Mountain Eco Trails is a local Nepali trekking company that specialises in guided treks exactly like Poon Hill. Booking with a reputable outfitter like Mountain Eco Trails offers several advantages:

To book with Mountain Eco Trails, you can contact them through our website or email or WhatsApp us at +9779849790153.

Also, for the trip confirmation, we kindly request our clients to make an advance payment of 20% of the total cost, and the remaining balance can be paid after arrival. It’s recommended to book at least a few weeks or months in advance, especially for peak season (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr), to ensure availability of guides and any internal flights/hotels if needed. 

Get more info regarding the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

FAQs
  • The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty. The main challenge is climbing stone steps, especially near Ulleri, but overall the trek is manageable for anyone with average fitness and some walking experience.

  • The distance from Ghorepani to Poon Hill is quite short – about 1.2 km (0.75 miles) each way, so roughly 2.4 km round-trip. Don’t be fooled by the short distance, though; it’s a steep uphill hike of around 400 meters (1,300 feet) vertical gain. Most people take 45 minutes to 1 hour to climb up in the pre-dawn darkness and about 30–40 minutes to descend back to Ghorepani.

  • Yes, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the best beginner-friendly treks in Nepal. It has well-marked trails, moderate walking hours, and a maximum altitude of 3,210 meters, making it ideal for first-time trekkers with basic fitness.

  • Yes, private rooms are available in most teahouses along the Poon Hill route. However, during peak trekking seasons like spring and autumn, availability can be limited, so early booking or guided arrangements are recommended.

  • You should pack light but essential gear including layered clothing, a warm jacket, waterproof outerwear, good trekking shoes, gloves, hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Since it’s a teahouse trek, camping gear is not required.

  • No, altitude sickness (AMS) is not a major concern on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. The highest point you sleep is 2,874 m at Ghorepani, and you go up to 3,210 m on Poon Hill briefly. These altitudes are relatively moderate. Serious altitude sickness is uncommon below 3,500 m.

  • As of the latest regulations (2023 onward), yes, international trekkers must hire a guide to enter the conservation areas, national parks, and restricted regions of Nepal.

  • Yes, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This permit is mandatory and checked along the trail. 

  • Accommodation on the Poon Hill trek is in teahouses (mountain lodges) in each village. These are simple guesthouses run by local families. Expect basic but cozy rooms, usually twin-sharing with two beds and a blanket. Most teahouses have shared bathrooms (squat or Western toilets; hot showers are available for an extra fee in many places).

  • The best time of the year for the 6-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are generally spring (March to early May) and autumn (late September to November). During these months, the weather in the Annapurna region is most stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures – perfect for mountain views and comfortable trekking.

  • Yes, absolutely – the Ghorepano Poon Hill trek in 6 days is very popular among families and older adventurers. Its moderate difficulty and shorter length make it one of the most family-friendly treks in Nepal.

Clients Reviews
  • Mountain Eco Trails are utterly amazing

    Mountain Eco Trails are utterly amazing. They are quick, efficient, and have great prices. They really should have more reviews they are that good. They will get to know you and tailor anything to your trekking needs as a small team. Wow

    T
    TomUnited Kingdom,August 2023
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