Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek | 8 Days Best & Short Trek

Highlights of Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days

Visit the ever-beautiful city of Pokhara
Breath-taking views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range from the viewpoint
Relatively easy trek (less physically demanding)
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is suitable for most age groups
No risk of altitude sickness at Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Experience the traditional Nepalese lifestyle
Some of the best activities are Paragliding, Ultra flight, and a Visit to Pagoda (World Peace Monastery) David Fall, Guptaswar temple, Zipline, and Bunji Jamp in the Pokhara.

Route Map

Trip Overview

With a plethora of options on the table, most adventurers choose to go for the popular trekking destinations of Nepal such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and so on. These famous tracks of Nepal take a couple of weeks or more to complete but this 8-day short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers the same excitement in fewer days.

Although Poon Hill is not as popular as the aforementioned sites, it is a popular destination in the Annapurna region. Many trekkers who are En route to the Annapurna Circuit trek tend to visit this place for its relaxing aura. With its cozy tea houses and pleasing views, the easy Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek welcomes around 700 visitors per day during the early summer season.

As accommodated as it is today, Ghorepani was once just a place for the traders to rest and quench their horse’s thirst. Travelers found water, which is called “Pani” in Nepalese, for their horses, which are called “Ghoda” in Nepalese hence the name “Ghorepani”. Humans did not live there as there were little to no facilities. Khiban, another scenic village located just below Ghorepani was the hotspot at the time. Over time, Ghorepani began to accommodate people as it was a part of a major trade route at the time.

Back in the early 70s, the best time for the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill trek (early summer) saw a couple of trekkers which prompted locals to set up tea shops for the tired trekkers to rest and rejuvenate. The first tea shops are documented to be set up in 1973 which was quickly followed by the first lodge in the region. The oldest accommodation in the area is The Annapurna Lodge which is a family-run business.

The relatively easy Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is particularly known for its scenic views coupled with the bright and vibrant flowers blossoming on the Rhododendron trees. These flowers are the national flowers of Nepal and are also known for their medicinal purposes. With Poon Hill’s viewpoint being the rewarding destination of the trek, let’s learn more about it in detail as we explore every aspect of the trail.

The hiking trip begins in Nayapul Village and then takes you through dense forests, scenic villages, and terraced fields. All categories of trekkers can access it courtesy of clearly indicated paths. As you go up the landscape becomes different and keeps offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machapuchare.

Watching the sunrise at Poon Hill is the biggest attraction in this trek. At dawn, hikers climb to the top to observe the sun rising above majestic mountains casting shadows over their tops. The mesmerizing sight of this place makes one feel peace and wonder.

Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an ideal holiday for someone that wants a short but fulfilling adventure in the Himalayas. This walk leads you to the Annapurna region which is famous for its historical importance, diverse culture, and amazing landscapes.

Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an excursion that goes beyond beautiful scenery; it is embedded with culture. As one marches along the trek, they are given a chance to learn about the Gurung and Magar people’s way of life by staying together and feeling the hospitality of their native cultures.

The journey will also take you through comfortable tea houses where you can enjoy some of Nepal’s best food while being briefed on its history. Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek has a blend of nature and culture that makes it authentic for those who want adventure with spiritual touch in the vibrant culture of Nepal.

Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

As your flight lands in Kathmandu, your accommodations will have already been taken care of. One of our drivers will be there to pick you up in a private car and drop you off at your hotel. You can spend the rest of your time in Kathmandu sightseeing, traveling in a private car which we will be providing.

Although the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek difficulty is not a major concern, you will be staying in Kathmandu for 2 nights in a 3-star hotel to make sure you are rested. During your stay in cities (Pokhara and Kathmandu), the package will only cover your morning breakfast, every other meal is at your own expense. However, during the trekking days, all your daily meals will be covered in the package along with accommodations and a bowl of fresh fruits after dinner every night.

Duration

30 mins

Max Altitude

1400m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

Day 02: Kathmandu to Pokhara

Kathmandu to Pokhara is around 200 km in total which takes around 5/6 hours if you want to travel by bus and around half an hour if you choose to travel by air. Note that we will only be covering your land transport.

We will accommodate you for a night stay at Pokhara with breakfast included for the next morning.

Duration

7-9 hours drive

Max Altitude

820m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Tourist Standard Hotel

Day 03: Pokhara to Birethanti and Trek to Ulleri

After breakfast, we will officially begin our easy Ghorepani Poon Hill trek journey. Your trek permits will be taken care of, we will rent you trek equipment and brief you on the journey we are about to go on. Lunch will be served after we reach Birethanti.

Birethanti is a small town on the foothills of the Modi Khola Valley sitting at 1,100 meters of altitude. Starting from Pokhara, we will reach Birethanti in approximately 2 hours. This small town is the starting point of our trek where you can gear up for the trek, and fill yourself up before we begin our 4-5 hours long trekking session.

We have to follow the off road from Birethanti to Tirkhe Dunga where we will stop for our lunch, and after having lunch we will walk towards our final destination for the day, Ulleri, lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

This village is known for its stone steps which is undoubtedly the challenging part of the trek. There are around 3500 stone steps that once crossed reward a beautiful view of the surrounding Himalayas.

Ulleri, like Poon Hill, is a Magar village, meaning its inhabitants are of the Magar tribe. Magars are known for their rich culture, their beautiful dresses, and their energizing dance. While you are up there you should engage with the local Magars and learn about their unique cultural ways.

And Himchuli and Annapurna South will see from ULLERI which is an elevation of 1933 meters.

Duration

2 hrs Drive / 4-5 hrs Walk

Max Altitude

1,933 m

Activity

Driving / Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 04: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani

The following day, we will prepare for our destination of the day, Ghorepani. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for an energetic headstart. We will have to walk a bit more today, around an hour more than the previous day as we have to cover some more grounds.

As we walk the trail, bright pink and red Rhododendron will light up the barren paths during the months of March and April. It can be a bit chilly at Ghorepani so be sure to bring along a jacket with you.

Duration

5-6 hrs

Max Altitude

2,860m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 05: Ghorepani - Poon Hill | Trek to Tadapani

On the fifth day, we will make our way to our ultimate destination of the trek, Poon Hill. Leaving the beautiful village of Ghorepani, we move onto the off-beaten path to Poon Hill. Compared to the last 2 days, this walk should feel relatively easy as we will be descending.

Poon Hill awaits us, ready to show off its panoramic view of the Annapurna range. It’s the best view you will see in the entire trek so make sure to capture some memories on film. After our short and sweet visit to Poon Hill, we will walk towards another beautiful village named Tadapani. The route to Tadapani is easy for the most part but you will have to ascend about 900 meters super steep path right before reaching Tadapani.

Duration

5 - 6 hrs Walk

Max Altitude

2630 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk | Drive to Pokhara

From Tadapani, it will take us about 3 hours to reach Ghandruk, covering a total distance of 6.5 kilometers. The route to Ghandruk is easy but since you will have to descend for 3 hours it will put some pressure on your knees.

Ghandruk is a popular Gurung village that is known for its captivating traditional Gurung culture along with the views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli. During the daytime, you can visit the museum related to Gurung tradition and culture.

You can choose to walk to Nayapool which should take you around 2 to 3 hours or you can choose a drive instead. You will reach Pokhara in 5 hours max which is the end of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek itinerary.

You can also choose to stay overnight (modified itinerary). At night you can enjoy the traditional Gurung dance and music prepared by the locals as a way to welcome the visitors.

Duration

2 hrs walk / 4 hrs Drive

Max Altitude

820m

Activity

Short Trek / Drive By Jeep

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Drive to Kathmandu

We will oversee all your transport needs from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. On the way back to Kathmandu you can’t help but think about all the good times you had during the short Ghorepani Poon hill trek. Once you reach your hotel, we will get in contact for further processes.

Duration

6 /7 Hours Drive By Tourist Bus

Max Altitude

1300m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

3-Star Hotel

Day 08: Fly back Home

Every good thing has to end and so does your trip to Nepal; we will be dropping you off at the airport. We hope to see you around a second time and keep in touch with us.

Max Altitude

000

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Excluded

Trip Note:

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek route can vary depending on the season and the availability of tracks in the given moment. Here’s our preferred and recommended itinerary.

Flight Option

If you don’t have enough time to travel According to Our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Itinerary, you don’t need worry about that, You Have another Best Option To catch the Domestic Flight Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu with Little Raising the fare, that means you have safe your extra time

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Free airport pick up / drop off by Private Car.
Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist Bus.
Pokhara to Nayapool by car, and after the hike, Ghandruk to Pokhara by local Jeep.
Tourist standard hotel Twin Sharing Room Accommodation ( 2 Nights in Kathmandu with breakfast)
Tourist standard hotel twin sharing room accommodation ( 2 Nights in Pokhara with breakfast)
Full board meals during the trekking breakfast, lunch, dinner, one item choose from the menu system
Annapurna conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Tourist Information Management System (TIMS Card)
Government-licensed holder and good English-speaking guide.
All staff wages, food, drinks, accommodations, transportations and insurance.
One strong sherpa helper for carrying your baggage, 1 porter for 2 clients.
Hill Sherpa Trekking first aid kit by guide.
Helicopter service will be covered by your travel insurance, incase if Emergency.
Sleeping bag, Down jacket, Duffel bag, and trekking poles are provided by Hill Sherpa trekking but should be returned after the trek if needed.
Oxy meter for checking pulse, level (AMS), acute mountain sickness.
Complementary fresh fruit after dinner.
Accommodation, tea house during the trek.
An assistant guide provides for groups of 8 people,
All government taxes and official expenses.

What is excluded?

International airfare tickets.
Nepal entry visa fee, visa obtained on (TIA) arrival at international airport in Kathmandu.
Additional accommodations, food, drinks, bar hill, laundry in Kathmandu if stays extra day.
Your Personal Medical & Travel Insurance,
Desserts, sweet items like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding, tea, coffee, during tre,k and for any extra expenses.
Excess baggage weight is 10-15 kg maximum.
During the trek hot showers, mobile camera, power bank any batteries charging, Wi-Fi internet.
Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees 30 USD per person
Tips for guide & porter.

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days

Best Time to Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The best time for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is during the early summer season (March & April). During this season, the Rhododendron in the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route blossoms to reveal its beautiful red flowers which are edible as well. Aside from that, the other best time for this trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. During spring and autumn, the weather is usually clear which really decides the mood of the whole Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.

You should avoid traveling during the monsoon and winter as monsoon makes the tracks muddy and slippery. Additionally, the scenes are not so good in winter since everything will look dried up and bland.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Elevation and Trekking Distance

The maximum elevation we will reach is 3210m above sea level at Poon Hill and the total distance we will cover during the short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is 51km or 31 miles. If you are prone to altitude sickness easily make sure that you have all the pills you need and also consult a physician before heading up.

The trekking distance is just 31 miles but since we will be working our way uphill to a max alleviation of 3,210m it will take more time. You can choose to extend or shorten the trekking distance based on a couple of trail modifications we facilitate.

Maximum/Minimum walk per day

The most you will have to walk in a single day is 6 hours while the least is around 4 hours. Keep in mind that your trekking time also depends on the pace. The estimates we provide are based on the average time so as long as you are physically sound, you should be able to reach the destinations in a given time.

Also, this trek has 3000 steps on a certain part which can be difficult for some and take extra time. Apart from that, it’s just a regular trekking trail and relatively easy in comparison to other treks in Nepal.

Difficulty Trip toGhorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek difficulty is relatively less in comparison to popular destinations in Nepal. As mentioned earlier, it has 3000 stone steps in certain parts which can be difficult but it’s one-of-a-kind and won’t repeat in the trail again. Additionally, we have porters who will help you get through difficult parts with ease.

If in case, you feel like you can not continue the trek anymore, our emergency services will bring you down to Pokhara via helicopter which will be covered by your travel insurance.

Can a beginner join this trip?

Yes, a beginner can join this trip without any worries at all. This course is beginner-friendly and as long as you are in sound physical fitness, you should do very well. Ghorepani is one of the easiest treks in Nepal and the easiest trek in the Annapurna region. You can bring your kids along as well.

Equipment such as sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags, and trekking poles will be provided to each trekker which makes it more beginner-friendly.

Preparation and Training for Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

As we stated before Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, is one of the easiest treks in Nepal and does not demand much physicality. However, there are things you can do to prepare for this trek. To avoid cramps during the trek, you can practice stretching as well as a bit of cardio exercise to get used to the physical strain of trekking.

We recommend you get used to the weather of Pokhara and not immediately begin the trek on arrival. This allows you to rest since you have traveled long. If you are not well-versed in first aid, make sure you go through a tutorial, just in case some minor accidents occur. Lastly, you can prepare for this journey by learning things about the village and the local people there.

Alternate routes Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Our recommended Ghorepani Poon Hill trek route starts from Birethanti and ends in Ghandruk but you can choose to go the opposite way as well, starting from Ghandruk and ending at Birethanti. The other alternative route consists of ascending to Tadapani from Ghandruk staying at a lodge for the night and descending to Ghorepani.

Alternate routes can be a fun way to explore places you have already been to or just to customize your itinerary as you see fit. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek itinerary can be adjusted in a couple of ways as per your preferences and seasonal restrictions.

Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness at an altitude of 3210m or 10,593 ft is uncommon but if you are one of the rare cases with a history of altitude sickness you should take the necessary precautions before starting the trek.

Consult with your physician and take along the necessary medications in case you suffer from altitude sickness during the journey. We have emergency air support in case you suffer from anything serious. We will also provide you with an oxygen meter so you can check the oxygen level and your pulse rate at any given time.

Meals and Drink

We will be in charge of providing you with timely meals throughout the journey. You can get anything from the menu of the lodges we stop along the way and we will also provide you with fresh fruits after dinner.

As for drinks, you can get any drinks available in the eateries we stop along the way, we will be covering the expense. However, since you will need water the most, we will provide you with water purification tablets to make sure nothing bad enters your body. These tablets not only protect you from unwanted bacteria but also save you from an unpleasant journey.

Transportation

We are here to pick you up from the Kathmandu International Airport, you will be greeted by one of our drivers and be transported to your hotel. After your initial stay in Kathmandu, you will be traveling to Pokhara via bus ride.

Our transport vehicles are private so you can rest assured that they will be clean and much more hygienic compared to taxis. We also provide you with a private car ride around the attractions of Kathmandu (inclusive of the trek package).

Gadgets, Charging, and Internet

You can bring in all the gadgets you want, however, as we are traveling to somewhat remote places, there are chances of power outages. So, we recommend bringing along a power bank if your gadgets are essential to you.

As for the Internet, you will not get data coverage on every part of the trek but you will have internet accessibility on every lodge we stay for the night.

Permits of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

2 types of different permits are required to do the Ghorepani Poon hill trek. The first one is the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) Permit which will cost around $30 per person and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Trekker’s Permit which will cost $20 per person.

These permits are absolutely necessary and the proceedings are engaged in developing the trails and the villages on the trail. All of these expenses will be covered by the trek package.

Your Extra Expenses

Your extra expenses include Visa fees upon entry at the Tribhuvan International Airport, travel and medical insurance, excess baggage (15 kgs is the limit), hot showers, battery charging, use of Wi-Fi in tea houses, and tips for guides and porters. Your extra expenses are your own expenses which we are not liable to pay for.

What to expect during Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

You can expect a ton of fun, memorable moments, and mesmerizing views of the Himalayas and green hills. We are sure you will love this trek and every penny will be worth it when you reach Poon Hill and take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the Annapurna Himalayan Range. And don’t expect the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek difficulty to be a deal breaker.

You should expect that you will be tired but also expect a hot plate and warm bed waiting for you at the end of the day. Expect to be exhausted but also expect that the best view of your life is waiting for you at the end.

Trip Map of Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days

Download PDF Map

Altitude Chart of Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days

Equipment List

General Information

Company provides feather sleeping bag but should be refund after the trek.
Company provide Feather down Jacket but should be refund after the trek.
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides duffle bag during the trek but should be refund after the trek.
Mostly recommend for morning and evening, The windproof and waterproof thin layered jacket above 3450m.
Mostly recommend for Daypack bag 35-45 ltr.
Headlamp & extra batteries during the trek

Daily Use Essentials

A Sun Black Cap & Fleece hat
Sunglasses 100% snow uv protection
A muffle (full cover mask)
Sunscreen (30+ to 60 SPF depends on age)
A pair of thin & warm gloves
A pair Trekking poles
Water bottle & filter
Water purified tablets
lips guard

Upper Body Essentials

Warm hot
A pair of t-shirts
Thermal tops
Sports bras for ladies
windproof & fleece jacket
waterproof jacket

All Lower Body

waterproof trouser
warmer & fleece trouser
A pair of Comfortable trekking pants
Extra comfortable sport pants
A pair of sport shoe
Thermal underwear
A pair of comfortable waterproof trekking boots
Pair of light sandals
Some Thick (woolen) socks
Sock liners
Light shoes

Personal Medical and First Aid Kits

Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for AMS)
Adhesive bandages and pocket masks
Non-stick pad W/ Adhesive
ibuprofen & paracetamol tablets IP
Some Assorted adhesive bandages
Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Moves incase sprain any body
pain-relief medication
Sinex, & Eye Drops etc.
Gauze sponge
Saline solution

(Note: first aid kits & medicine will carrying with our company’s guide during the trekking However, we recommend you to bring your personal first-aid kit)

Important Things

passport size photos with original passport copy
Flight details (to pick you up & transfer to hotel)

Extra Essential Things

Energy gel or dry foods (that’s your desire)
Power bank is most important for backup device (if you have)
Camera, chargers, extra batteries, memory card)
Most important for ladies essentials things (if you are ladies)

Addons & Options for Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days

Addons

Price

Upgrade to 4 star hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights

US$
180

Upgrade to 5 star hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights

US$
380

Upgrade to 5 star hotel in Pokhara 2 nights

US$
385

Paragliding (the price is depending on season)

US$
75-85

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are required for the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

The entire adventure of the Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek span across 6 to 8 days together with the trip to and from Kathmandu and Pokhara. Anybody who wants a leisurely trek experience has the option to stretch their time on the trail from 8 to 10 days.

What is the fitness level required for this trek?

Beginners can easily partake in this trek because it does not require any previous trekking background. A fundamental fitness level is needed to tackle the route since light cardio exercises and endurance exercises for your legs will assist your uphill movements.

What are the accommodation options during the trek?

Travelers trekking this route stay at the combination of tea houses and small local lodges that operate along the trail. The lodgings provide comfortable facilities with traditional Nepali food and warm blankets for guests. Teahouses include hot showers and wireless internet facilities, although these additional services require an extra payment.

Can I do the trek solo without a guide?

Although solo treks are possible on the path, the adventure becomes safer and more convenient by hiring local guides or porters who provide orientation services and ensure safety throughout. Expert guides will make your trekking adventure better while also assisting with communication at the same time because they mark all the trails clearly.

What should I pack for the trek?

All visitors need trekking footwear, versatile clothes, a sleeping bag, and protection from the sun with eye gear and drinking containers with energizing snacks. Having a trekking pole will be helpful for dealing with the challenging stone steps across the trail.

Is there any cultural experience included in the trek?

Yes. Trekking participants walk past Gurung and Magar traditional communities, during which they can encounter firsthand cultural experiences and indigenous Nepali dining while meeting friendly residents of these villages. The adventure provides opportunities to visit both historic monasteries and communicate with local residents of the region.

Reviews on Short Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 8 Days

5.0

Based on 54 Reviews

54+ Tripadvisor Reviews

Jaz

Malaysia

Verified Buyer

GHOREPANI SHORT TRIP.

Adventures trails & Very stunning Poonhill with the scenery of Annapurna Region, with my sherpa companion Mr Pema Dorjee, My all trip was organized by - Hill Sherpa Trekking so everything was best for me and I highly recommend it.