Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – 5 Days from Pokhara

• Drive Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours (approx. 42 km)
• Trek Distance: 8–9 km
• Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Starting Elevation (Nayapul): 1,070 meters (3,510 ft)
• Ending Elevation (Ulleri): 2,050 meters (6,726 ft)
• Elevation Gain: Approx. 980 meters
• Trekking Terrain: Gravel road, stone staircases, village trails, suspension bridges, terraced farmland, forest path

Your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek officially begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. As you leave the lakeside city behind, the road winds through beautiful countryside, rivers, and green hills, giving you a preview of the landscapes to come.

From Nayapul (1,070m), your trek begins on a gently sloping gravel road alongside the Modi Khola River. After about 20 minutes of walking, you’ll arrive at Birethanti, a charming village where your ACAP and TIMS permits will be checked. From here, you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, one of Nepal’s most protected and biodiverse trekking zones.

The trail continues through several picturesque settlements such as Matathanti, Sudame, and Hile. This section is relatively easy, winding through terraced rice fields, small waterfalls, bamboo groves, and local farmlands. You’ll enjoy views of local life, water buffalo, and friendly villagers going about their day.

After lunch in Tikhedhunga, get ready for the most physically demanding part of the day—the stone staircase to Ulleri, which consists of over 3,200 stone steps. This steep climb takes about 2 hours and tests your endurance, but the rewarding views make it worthwhile.

Upon reaching Ulleri (2,050m), you’ll be welcomed by panoramic hillside scenery and traditional Magar culture. The village is surrounded by forested ridges and offers the first distant glimpses of Annapurna South, especially during clear weather. You’ll settle into a cozy mountain teahouse, where you can rest, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the next day’s trek.

Day 1 Highlights – Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

• Scenic countryside drive from Pokhara to Nayapul
• Peaceful riverside walk through lush valleys and small villages
• Permit registration at Birethanti (entry to Annapurna Conservation Area)
• Cultural insights into Gurung and Magar lifestyles
• Challenging stone staircase ascent to Ulleri (3,000+ steps!)
• Beautiful hillside views and overnight stay in a local teahouse

• Trek Distance: 10–11 kilometers
• Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Starting Elevation: 2,050 meters (Ulleri)
• Ending Elevation: 2,874 meters (Ghorepani)
• Elevation Gain: ~824 meters
• Trekking Terrain: Stone staircases, dense rhododendron and oak forests, wooden bridges, shaded forest paths, occasional steep sections

Your second day on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins with a warm breakfast in Ulleri, where Himalayan scenery and crisp mountain air set the tone for the day. The trail ascends gradually through one of the most beautiful forested sections of the entire trek.

You’ll walk through thick rhododendron and oak forests, alive with birdsong and fluttering prayer flags. In spring (March to May), the trail comes alive with blooming red and pink rhododendrons—Nepal’s national flower—making this section incredibly photogenic.

After about 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll reach Banthanti, a peaceful rest stop surrounded by greenery. From here, the trail gently ascends deeper into the forest, crossing small streams and wooden bridges. Along the way, enjoy short breaks at Nangge Thanti, another small teahouse village hidden in the misty woods.

As you approach Ghorepani, the forest begins to open up, revealing distant snow-capped peaks. The final stretch is a slightly steeper climb, but the reward is worth it. Ghorepani, sitting at 2,874 meters, is a stunning village nestled below the famous Poon Hill viewpoint.

Day 2 Highlights — Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Trek Distance: 10–11 km through scenic forest trails
• Walk through lush rhododendron forests, especially stunning in spring
• Rest stops at Banthanti and Nangge Thanti for tea and views
• Trekking terrain: stone steps, shaded forest paths, wooden bridges
• First views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail)
• Overnight stay in Ghorepani, a traditional Magar village with cozy lodges

• Poon Hill Hike Distance: 3.2 km round trip
• Poon Hill Hike Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours total
• Main Trek Distance (Ghorepani to Tadapani): ~9–10 km
• Main Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Starting Elevation: 2,874 meters (Ghorepani)
• Maximum Elevation: 3,210 meters (Poon Hill)
• Ending Elevation: 2,630 meters (Tadapani)
• Terrain: Stone steps, forest trails, ridgelines, steep descents, occasional muddy paths

Your third day on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins early—well before dawn—as you set out on a pre-sunrise hike to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. This short but steep climb of about 1.6 km each way takes 45 minutes to 1 hour and is done in darkness, so headlamps are essential.

As you ascend, anticipation builds. Once at the Poon Hill summit (3,210 meters), you’ll be greeted with one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the Himalayas. On a clear morning, the sunrise bathes the snow-capped peaks in golden and orange hues. You’ll witness a 360° view of Himalayan giants, including:

• Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
• Annapurna I (8,091m)
• Machapuchare (6,993m)
• Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri

After enjoying the unforgettable sunrise and taking photos, you’ll return to Ghorepani for a well-earned breakfast.

Following your meal, the trek continues toward Tadapani. The trail starts with a gentle climb through a dense rhododendron forest, filled with birdsong, moss-covered trees, and natural springs. During spring, this path is a floral wonderland.

You’ll trek along ridgelines with occasional views of the mountains peeking through the trees. After passing Deurali Pass (3,090m), the path begins a steep and sometimes slippery descent through mixed forest. You’ll stop at Banthanti for lunch or tea, a lovely rest point overlooking the Modi River valley.

The final section from Banthanti to Tadapani (2,630 meters) is a forested trail that winds through peaceful surroundings. Tadapani is a small yet scenic village perched on a ridge, offering jaw-dropping views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. This is a perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the peace of the mountains.

Day 3 Highlights — Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Poon Hill sunrise: Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges
• Short, steep hike to the 3,210m viewpoint and back (3.2 km round trip)
• Breakfast in Ghorepani after returning from Poon Hill
• Trek through ancient rhododendron forests and serene ridgelines
• Beautiful rest stop at Banthanti with views of the valley
• Overnight at Tadapani, famous for its up-close mountain views
• Perfect day for photographers, nature lovers, and Himalayan sunrises

• Trek Distance: ~8 km
• Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours
• Starting Elevation: 2,630 meters (Tadapani)
• Ending Elevation: 1,940 meters (Ghandruk)
• Elevation Loss: ~690 meters descent
• Trekking Terrain: Forested downhill trail, stone steps, shaded paths, occasional open viewpoints

After a peaceful night in Tadapani, Day 4 of your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a relatively short yet scenic trek to one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal—Ghandruk.

You’ll start your day with a sunrise view of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South, followed by a hearty breakfast. The trail immediately descends from Tadapani into a quiet and dense rhododendron and oak forest. The path is filled with bird calls, fresh air, and moss-covered trees—especially magical in the early morning mist.

About halfway through the trail, you’ll reach Bhaisekharka, a peaceful meadow clearing surrounded by towering trees. It’s a great place to rest and enjoy a tea break while immersed in nature.

As you continue downhill, the landscape opens up, offering views of the Modi Khola Valley. The trail gradually brings you into Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village known for its terraced hillsides, stone-paved alleys, and slate-roof houses.

Upon arrival in Ghandruk (1,940m), you’ll enjoy lunch with panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. The village is a cultural gem—rich in heritage, hospitality, and mountain beauty.

In the afternoon, explore the Ghandruk Gurung Museum, where you can learn about the traditions, attire, and daily life of the Gurung people. Ghandruk is also home to many retired Gurkha soldiers, adding to its unique identity. Don’t miss a stroll through the traditional village center, where locals may invite you in for tea or conversation.

You’ll spend the night in a cozy teahouse here, with time to relax, reflect on your journey, and enjoy another beautiful sunset over the Himalayas.

Day 4 Highlights — Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Trek through lush forest trails from Tadapani to Ghandruk (~8 km)
• Peaceful stop at Bhaisekharka, a serene clearing in the woods
• Panoramic views of Annapurna South and Fishtail Peak upon arrival
• Explore the charming Gurung village of Ghandruk, rich in culture
• Visit the Ghandruk Gurung Museum to learn about local traditions
• Enjoy local lunch and warm hospitality in one of the village lodges
• Overnight stay in a traditional teahouse with Himalayan views

• Trek Distance: ~9 km
• Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours
• Drive Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours (Birethanti to Pokhara)
• Starting Elevation: 1,940 meters (Ghandruk)
• Ending Elevation (Pokhara): 822 meters
• Trekking Terrain: Gradual downhill trail, stone steps, terraced fields, village paths

Your final day of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek begins with a warm breakfast and stunning morning views from Ghandruk. After soaking in the last glimpses of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare, you begin your descent toward the valley floor.

The trail from Ghandruk to Birethanti is well-established and gently sloping, taking you through charming villages, rice terraces, and scenic rural landscapes. The path winds alongside small streams, crosses suspension bridges, and passes through areas where locals farm and herd animals.

As you gradually descend, you’ll feel the temperature rising and the forest canopy giving way to open farmland. Along the way, you may pass small settlements like Kimche and Syauli Bazaar, where you can stop for tea or short breaks.

After around 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Birethanti (1,025m)—a peaceful riverside village near the park checkpost and the gateway to the Annapurna region. This marks the official end of your trekking route.

From Birethanti, a short drive of 1.5 to 2 hours will take you back to Pokhara, where you can relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate the successful completion of your trek.

Day 5 Highlights — Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Scenic 9 km downhill trek through farms, villages, and river valleys
• Walk alongside rice terraces, stone-paved paths, and local settlements
• Peaceful arrival in Birethanti, a beautiful riverside village
• Comfortable drive back to Pokhara (1.5–2 hours) with countryside views
• Completion of a memorable short Himalayan adventure
• Optional: Return to hotel or continue with other activities in Pokhara