Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
This is one of the most pleasant low altitude treks in the Annapurna region. We start the trek in Nayapul an hours drive from Pokhara. Soon after commencing the trek we reach Birethanti at the confluence of two river valleys, after refreshments we take the left fork to follow the Bharungdi Khola (river) before climbing to the ridge at Tirkhedhunga (1150mtr). The beauty of this part of Nepal is that you do not have to trek long to have some wonderful close up views of the Annapurna range including the sacred mountain Machhapuchhre (6997m). After a journey to Poon hill for sunrise mountain views, we leave the more crowded trekking trails to travel through magnificent rhododendron and oak forests on our way to the ornate and traditional village of Ghandruk where there is ample time to explore the village. The following day we trek for three hours to meet our bus at Naypool to drive Pokhara.There are a number of options for short treks in the foothills to the north of Pokhara. Most of these variations will visit Ghandrung and Ghorepani. The former is a large, traditional Gurung village while Ghorepani is the settlement below the famed vantage point of Poon hill, one of the best spots from which to view the Himalaya range of central Nepal.
The various itineraries are all relatively easy and none reach an elevation high enough for AMS to be an issue. Generally between five and six trekking days are sufficient for any of the itinerary options. All enter the ACAP area so an entry permit is required. The permit should be obtained either in Kathmandu or Pokhara prior to starting the trek. Teahouses are plentiful through the foothills but there are a couple of alternative routes that will require the trekker to be self-sufficient if these particular trails are chosen.
The most commonly trekked of the foothill itineraries starts and ends at Naya Pul on the Baglung Highway (not to be confused with the Naya Pul on the Modi Khola beyond Landrung). Traveling by bus or taxi, the journey to Naya Pul takes about 1 to 2 hrs. Cross the Modi Khola at Naya Pul and trek through Birethanti to Syauli Bazaar following the river through cultivated fields and small villages. At Syauli Bazaar, the trail climbs steeply to the large Gurung village of Ghandrung (pronounced Ghandruk by the locals). Here there is a wide selection of teahouses and the community operates handicraft and cultural displays.
From Ghandrung, the main trail passes through Tadapani to the pass at Ghorepani. Above the hill is Poon Hill, a climb of around 300m. The fabulous panoramic view of mountains makes the steep climb at dawn worth the trouble. Some take in the evening view by climbing at dusk. Either way, the views of Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas and, in the distance, the Manaslu range are astounding.
From Ghorepani there are three choices. The most commonly taken route drops down to the villages of Ulleri and Tirkedhunga to Birethanti, the original starting point of the trek. There is a steep trail and can be quite crowded during peak season. It passes through dense stands of oak and rhododendron until Ulleri is reached after which the landscape is mostly cultivated fields.
After relaxing in Pokhara for a day we travel to the banks of the Trisuli for a rafting and safari adventure towards Chitwan National Park. Two nights are spent following a programme of activities before returning to Kathmandu either by flight or overland.
Trip Highlights
Trip Duration: 10 Days
Trek Duration: 05 Days
Grade: Easy
Highest Point: Ghorepani (2850m)
Best Season:Mar,Apr, May,Sep,Oct, Nov,Dec
Activities: Trekking & Cultural Excursion
Accommodation: Deluxe Hotels in City & Lodges in Trekking
Group Size: Min 1 to 25
Trip Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu sightseeing
Day 03: Kathmandu-Pokhara
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul and start trekking to Tirkhendhunga (1577m).2 Hours driving & 4 Hours Trekking
Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2850m).6 Hours Trekking
Day 06: Sunrise at Poon Hill for sunrise views / trek to Tadapani (2595m) 4 Hours Trekking
Day 07: Trek to Ghandruk. 4Hours Trekking
Day 08: Ghandruk / Nayapul / bus Pokhara (one hour) / transfer hotel.
Day 09: Pokhara Sightseeing
Day 10: Pokhara - Kathmandu
Day 11: Kathmandu Departure
Details of Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu
Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport and get transferred to a hotel.Our Tour Manager will give you the brifing about the trip uppon arrival in Hotel.
Day 02 : Kathmandu sightseeing
After breakfast proceed for city tour of Kathmandu visiting Durbar Square, complex of palaces, courtyard and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries use to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. In the afternoon visit the Swoyambunath Stupa and Patan City. Swoyambhunath Stupa, atop the hillock is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal enlisted in the World Heritage Site. Patan City is an enchanting melange of palace buildings, artistic courtyard and former palace complex. One remarkable monument here is a 16th century temple dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Krishna, built entirely of stone.
Day 03: Kathmandu-Pokhara
After breakfast drive to Pokhara. Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the Fishtail Peak rising behind it create an ambiance of peace and tranquility. Pokhara is a perfect place to see the panoramic view of Himalayan region including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul and start trekking to Tirkhendhunga (1577m).2 Hours driving & 4 Hours Trekking
After breakfast your driver will pick you up for the two-hour drive to Birethanti. On the way, you will be able to see the high peaks of the Himalayas looming in the distance as the road winds its way up to the starting point of this short Nepal trek. Packed with your camera, warm sweater and some water you'll head off, accompanied by your guide and local porters. The villagers wave goodbye as you slowly begin your ascent.
The path leads through a thick bamboo forest to lush green fields where cows with red plumes on their heads graze. There's plenty of opportunity to stop off for some pictures or a drink on the way. After about 4 hours you arrive in Tirkhedhunga, a small village with a couple of shops, a wobbly hanging bridge across the river and waving children that follow you full of curiosity. You'll be sleeping in a basic lodge. There's running water but don't expect a hot shower
Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani (2850m).6 Hours Trekking
After a hearty breakfast it's time to pack your things and head off on the trek. The first stretch is fairly easy as you walk downhill into the valley. As you cross the river Burungdi Khola make sure to stop and admire this spectacular mountain river. The freezing cold meltwater flows down from high up on the mountain. Then it's the most strenuous part of your short Nepal trek. Heading up some stony steps you slowly make your way to 2000m.
At the end of this strenuous climb you'll be rewarded with an amazing view of the snow-capped mountains rising up above the surrounding hills. The last part of the trek is pretty level and leads through a colourful and aromatic rhododendron forest. On arrival in Ghorepani put your feet up, have a drink and relax. As you look around you'll see the colourful prayer flags blowing in the wind at the many temples and snowy mountain peaks in the background
Day 06: Sunrise at Poon Hill for sunrise views / trek to Tadapani (2595m) 4 Hours Trekking
It's an early start on Day Four of your Nepal short trek, so as not to miss the highlight of this trip, the sunrise at Poon Hill. After breakfast, you start the one-hour climb to the top at 3190m. Once you reach the top, sit yourself down on a nice comfy rock and watch as the sun slowly colours the white peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri a deep orange. It's enough to give you goose bumps. When the sun's up, the trek continues to Tadapani, where you'll stay overnight
Day 07: Trek to Ghandruk. 4Hours Trekking
After breakfast start trek to Ghandruk. You'll meet a lot of local villagers on the way carrying all kinds of interesting paraphernalia. Everything is lugged up the mountain from sacks of rice to live chickens in big baskets, even entire beds. The local men all wear simple flip-flops but they're still a lot faster than us tourists in our hiking boots. On the way, you'll pass through green fields where you can see farmers working the land. At the end of the afternoon you reach a small Gurung village where you will spend the night in a basic lodge.
Day 08: Ghandruk / Nayapul / bus Pokhara (one hour) / transfer hotel.
In the morning, you will leave for the last part of the sunrise trek to Nayapul, about 2 hours - downhill all the way. When you arrive, you'll find your transportation waiting for you for the two-hour drive to Pokhara. This friendly town is the trekking hub for the Annapurna region. Most of the hotels are situated around the lake and this is also where you'll find plenty of bustling bars and restaurants. You'll stay in a lovely comfortable lakeside hotel a perfect place to relax after your Nepal short trek. A little extra comfort won't go amiss and you'll deserve it after the action of the past few days. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance, you can rent a boat and go out on the lake or visit the golden Varahi temple.
Day 09 : Pokhara Sightseeing
After breakfast, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Pokhara City including Mahendra Cave, David Fall, Tibetan Refugee camp, Seti George, Guteshowr cave and 1 hour boating at Lake Phewa. Free at leisure for the remainder of the day.
Day 10 : Pokhara - Kathmandu
After Breakfast scenic drive back to Kathmandu through the bank of the Trisuli river..
Day 11 : Kathmandu
Free for adequate personal activities till departure transfer from hotel to the International Airport.
| Trekking Destination: | Kathmandu -- Pokhara - Kathmandu |
| Group Size: | 01-16 |
| Highest Access of the Trekking: | 2850m |
| Grade: |  |
| Transportation: | Surface |
| Mode of Trekking : | Tea House / Camping |
| Trekking Hour: | 4-6 |
| Total Days: | 11 Days |
The cost of each trip differs as per the size of group, choice of hotel, client's interest of service and correction in our itinerary.
For Price of this trip, please contact us
Tour Cost Include:
| » | Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus. |
| » | Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast |
| » | Kathmandu sightseeing entrace fee |
| » | All necessary permits and conservation entry permits. |
| » | All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the trekking |
| » | Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit. |
| » | An experienced, helpful and friendly Guide, porters (1 porter for 2 peoples). |
| » | Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation and Insurance for the Guide and Porter. |
| » | Sightseeing in Kahtmandu with tour gudie. |
| » | All accommodation in Pokahra with Breakfast |
| » | All transportation by car/ van/ bus |
| » | Nepal entry visa fee |
| » | Your Travel insurance. |
| » | Your personal expenses. |
| » | All lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara |
| » | International airfare and airport departure tax. |
| » | Bottle Drinks. |
| » | Tips for the guide and porter. |
Please contact us for your suitable date & discounted promotional Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking cost