Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
Pokhara
Location
Pokhara
Duration
5 days
Max Altitude
8900 ft
Trekking
32 km
Grade
Easy
Get in Touch with Our Trek Expert
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
Location
Pokhara
Duration
5 days
Max Altitude
8900 ft
Trekking km
32 km
Grade
Easy
Get in Touch with Our Trek Expert
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
Overview
Special Offer
Why is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek a Must-Do Trek?
- This trek is short and not too difficult. It is the best choice for beginners or anyone trekking for the first time.
- You will climb Poon Hill early in the morning to enjoy the most beautiful sunrise views over the Himalayas.
- The area in Pokhara is especially famous for its lakeside views. Here you can explore a very beautiful Fewa Lake.
- Rhododendron forests are the highlight of this trek. You will pass through numerous trees in different colors, with red being the most prominent.
- Even though it is a short trek, you get to see some of the highest peaks in this region, including Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri.
- Among the peaks, the very famous Machhapuchhre gives you a front-row view of this holy mountain, which has a unique fish-tail shape. It is one of the most beautiful sights in Nepal.
- You will also visit Ghandruk and experience the local Nepalese village lifestyle.
You get to meet the Gurung people and visit the museum. - Every night, you stay in warm guesthouses and, in some places, dormitories, where you can eat local food and sleep with some of the best views of Nepal.
- If you only have a few days in Nepal but want to see the BEST of the world, this trek gives you the full Himalayan experience in a very short time.
The Prettiest Rhododendron Trek of Nepal
Nepal is the undisputed heart of global trekking. Trekkers from everywhere come here to walk the mountain trails. Treks like EBC, Annapurna, and Manaslu have always been our top choices. In the same Annapurna region, we bring you the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek. But this time, it will leave you astounded, because this time it’s not about the peaks, it’s not about the specialty of the Himalayan trails, and it’s not about reaching a summit either. This time, the land will leave you awestruck with its huge rhododendrons and their never-ending varieties!
“It Has 32 Varieties of Rhododendrons”
The Annapurna Conservation Area is a global hotspot for the Lali Gurans (Rhododendron), Nepal’s national flower. On this specific trail, trekkers move through a massive forest belt containing 32 distinct varieties of these flowering trees.
In the spring, the entire mountainside is covered in a vivid mix of red, pink, and white, red more specifically. Some of these trees grow to heights of 20 meters that shield you from the sun as you climb. Walking through these shades of red, pinkish with the white peaks of the Annapurnas peeking through the branches, is an experience unique to this trail.
Major Highlights of the Trek
This trek is full of amazing things to see. Here are the best parts:
- Fewa Lake in Pokhara: This beautiful lake is the first thing you see in Pokhara. You can sit on a colorful boat and see the snowy mountains from there. It gives you a glimpse of Nepal’s beauty even before the trek begins.
- The Sunrise at Poon Hill: You wake up early and hike to the top of Poon Hill (3,210 meters). When the sun comes up, the giant mountains turn from grey to glowing gold. You can see the world's highest mountains from here: Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna.
- The Famous Rhododendron Trails: This trek is world-famous for its rhododendrons. Trekkers visit from all over the world to witness these forests because it is rare to see so many flowers on such an easy-to-moderate level trail.
- The Modi Khola River: At the start of your trek, you will also follow the Modi Khola River. This is a white water river that comes from the melting snow of the mountains.
- The Famous Stone Stairs: In the village of Ulleri, there are more than 3,000 stone steps! It is a bit hard on the legs but it's a great challenge that every trekker talks about.
- Ghandruk Village: This is one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal. It is an old, traditional place with stone houses. The people here are from the Gurung community. They are very famous for being brave Gurkha soldiers and also very kind and welcoming to guests. Inside the village, there is a Gurung Museum too. It shows how people lived in the mountains a long time ago. You can see their old tools and traditional clothes. You will visit here on Day 4 of your trek.
- Views of Fishtail Mountain: Almost everywhere you will trek, you can see Machhapuchhre, which means “Fishtail” mountain. It is a beautiful pointy mountain that looks like the shape of a fish tail, also very sacred to local people.
World’s Highest Peaks
Yet this is another core reason why trekkers love this trek so much. You can see more than 20 of the highest peaks in this region, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri. Machhapuchree predominantly draws the most attention of the trekkers as this climb has a uniquely twin shape that resembles a fish tail. On the other hand this peak is strictly prohibited for any climbing as it is considered the sacred abode of Lord Shiva and is respected by locals.
Between the dense varieties of rhododendron flowers and the world’s tallest peaks, you will love every day of this 6-day trek. Nepal has a way of making trekkers fall in love with it and on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek you will clearly see why!
Arrival in Pokhara
- Altitude: 823 m / 2,700 ft
- Accommodation: Hotel Lake Star
Drive to Banthati & Trek to Ghorepani
- Trek Distance: 4–5 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani
- Altitude: 2700 m / 8,860 ft
- Distance: 6–7 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
Tadapani to Ghandruk
- Altitude: 1940 m / 6,360 ft
- Distance: 3–4 hrs
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
Trek from Ghandruk to Kilyu Drive to Pokhara
- Distance: 4 hrs trek and 2:30 hr drive
- Accommodation: Guesthouse / Hotel Lake Star
- Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 100 beats per minute).
- Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 75 – 85, SYSTOLIC 100 - 130 mm Hg).
- Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
- Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
- Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
- No pacemaker implant.
- People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
- If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form
Calculate Your Bmi
Enter your weight and height to check if you’re fit for the trek.
How to reach — Maps
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Pick-Up Information
- It is essential for everyone to arrive at Pokhara (1:00 pm).
- Upon booking the trek, you are required to come to our hotel. Your trek coordinator will provide you with details such as the name of the Pokhra hotel, its location, and the contact person's number.
Options to Reach Pokhara
- By Flight
Tribhuvan International Airport is the only International airport located in Kathmandu, Nepal. One can fly to Tribhuvan airport and then can take an additional flight to Pokhara. The distance between Pokhara and Kathmandu is around 200 kms and can be covered in 30 minutes. Popular airlines such as Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Simrik Air serve this Pokhara route.
- By Train
There is no train option travelling to Pokhara, Nepal. The closest railway stations which one can arrive at are Jaynagar, New Jalpaiguri or Gorakhpur (INDIA). From there crossing the corresponding borders of Panitanki or Sunauli, one can take a bus to Pokhara via Kathmandu.
- By Bus
One can directly travel to the cities like Gorakpur or Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, and by crossing the Sunauli border can catch a bus or book a private car to reach Pokhara. The journey will take upto 8 hours to complete. Or one can fly to Kathmandu and then take public or private transport to Pokhara. The distance between these two cities is 200 kms which may take upto 6 to 7 hours.
For your return journey from Pokhara, you have the flexibility to choose between road or air transport options. Please note that our services extend only to the hotel, and the standard hotel check-out time is 11:00 am.
1.Accommodation
- Day 1 and Day 5 Stay in Pokhra.
- Day 2 to Day 4 Accomodation in Teahouse.
2. Meals (Veg + Egg):
- Day 2 Lunch to Day 5 Lunch.
3. Support:
- 1 Versatile base camp manager handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
- 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
- Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
- Enough support staff.
4. Trek equipment:
- Sleeping bag.
- Gaiters & Microspikes (if required).
5. First aid:
- Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.
6. Transportation
- Pokhara to Banthati & retun back from klue to Pokhara
7. Cloakroom room facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.
8. All necessary permits and entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indian.
9. TIMS Card
10. Services from Pokhara to Pokhara.
11.Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Map.
12. Trek Completion Certificate
13. Trekking Kit Bag (Duffle bag if opted for Porter facility).
Trek Essentials
Cancellation Terms
To request a cancellation, please email us at info@trekthehimalayas.com using your registered email ID.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 5% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 30% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 85% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 50% deduction of trek fee
- 80% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 70% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek.
Refund Options
- No cash refund
- 20% trek fee cash voucher for the same trip till one year
- 10% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend
Cancellation Policy (Emergency Cases):
In case of a death in the immediate family (parents, siblings, spouse, children) or if the trekker is hospitalized (min. 48 hours) or suffers a fracture (leg/arm) within a week before the trek, even if canceled a day before:
50% trek fee refund in cash.
Valid documents required. We’re here to support you during tough times.
Note:
- Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
- In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
- TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
Booking and Payments
- The Participant is responsible for verifying the accuracy of all details, including Trip dates and personal documentation, at the time of booking.
- Payments must be made in accordance with the timelines and instructions provided by TTH. Late payments may result in cancellation of booking without refund.
- In the event of a cash refund, only the portion of the payment made in cash shall be eligible for refund in cash. Any booking made using voucher, discounts, promotional codes, or through any non-cash mode of payment shall not be eligible for a cash refund under any circumstances.
- Refunds, if applicable, shall be processed within 15–30 working days of confirmation.
- All add-on bookings are subject to the respective add-on cancellation policy, and refunds will be processed accordingly.
- Voucher Terms
- This is a non-transferable voucher
- The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
- The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
- To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
- All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
Itinerary and Modifications
- TTH reserves the right to modify, shorten, or cancel any part of the Trip due to transportation delays, weather, health emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances including Force Majeure.
Cancellations and Refunds
- No refunds or vouchers, partial or otherwise, shall be provided for voluntary withdrawal, non-utilisation of services, or removal from the Trip.
- If TTH cancels the Trip before arrival at the designated pick-up point due to unforeseen circumstances or Force Majeure, the Participant may choose from:
- An alternate Trip/date.
- A credit voucher valid for one (1) year.
- Transfer to another Trip, with cost differences payable by the Participant.
- If the Trip is abandoned post-arrival at the designated pick-up point, no cash refund or voucher shall be issued. The Trek Again Policy may apply at TTH’s discretion.
- TTH shall not be liable for any associated travel costs such as flights, accommodation, or visa fees.
Force Majeure
- Events beyond its control including but not limited to earthquakes, landslides, strikes, curfews, war, pandemic, government restrictions, heavy rainfall or snowfall, windstorms, road blockages, trail disruption, or withdrawal of permits, TTH shall not be held liable for any cancellation, delay, or service modification caused by Force Majeure.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It starts from Pokhara and takes you through beautiful villages like Banthati, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk. Most of the trek lies within a protected area called the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail has rhododendron forests, valleys, and waterfalls, along with lovely views of the Himalayas. You can also see around 20 of the highest peaks in the region, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
This is an easy-to-moderate level trek and is perfect for beginners. The trails are well-marked and mostly gradual. There are some uphill sections like Ulleri steps, but overall the trek is comfortable if you have basic fitness. You can take as many breaks as you need, sit down for a snack break, and enjoy the view. If you can walk for 4 to 5 hours a day with a small backpack, you can easily finish this trek.
The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill, which is at an altitude of around 3,210 meters. You reach this point early in the morning for the sunrise view. Since the altitude gain is gradual, most trekkers adjust well.
The best time to do this trek is from September to June. The trails in the spring are extremely pretty as they are filled with different varieties of rhododendrons. And in autumn, the peaks will make you fall in love with 20 of the highest peaks in the region, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri.
The trek takes around 6 days. It is a short and well-paced itinerary where you can enjoy the journey with rhododendron trails, best-set peak views, local villages like Ghandruk, and coming across small waterfalls along the way.
Yes, this trek is very suitable for beginners. The walking hours are manageable, and the altitude is not too high. It is an absolutely great choice for Nepal’s beginner trek!
During the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, you will stay in guesthouses. These are Nepal’s mountain stays with basic rooms, usually for twin and triple sharing. In some places, you will stay in dormitories also. They are comfortable enough and also give you a chance to experience local hospitality.
All guesthouses have common dining areas where you can eat and spend time with fellow trekkers. Washrooms are usually shared, and hot water may be available at an extra cost in some places. Drinking water costs around 200-300 NPR, while hot showers are available for approximately 300-400 NPR.
You will get freshly prepared meals like dal, rice, vegetables, soups, and tea. The food is basic but filling and suitable for trekking. You will also find some snacks and light items as refreshments.
Because the trek is in Nepal, we recommend you go with a trusted organization. With an organization, you get experienced trek leaders who not only guide you on the trail but also share each and every specialty of the region. For the best experience, you can choose TTH!
You may get a mobile network in some villages, but it is not consistent throughout the trek. Electricity is available in most guesthouses, but charging your devices may come with an extra cost.
Yes, most teahouses now have Wi-Fi and electricity. However, because the villages are high in the mountains, the internet can be slow sometimes. Most lodges will ask for a small fee (about NPR 300 to NPR 5OO) to use the Wi-Fi or to charge your phone and camera batteries. It is a smart idea to bring a power bank just in case!
Make sure you pack light but carry all the essentials for a great trekking experience! Here are a few important things to carry:
- Comfortable high ankle trekking shoes with good grip
- Synthetic quick-dry T-shirts (full and half sleeves)
- Fleece T-shirt
- Fleece jacket
- Windproof jacket
- Down feather or hollow jacket
- Thermal innerwear (upper and lower)
- Synthetic quick-dry trek pants
- Fleece pants
- Waterproof gloves
- Fleece or woollen gloves
- Poncho or waterproof jacket and pants
- Woollen cap, gloves, and sunglasses
- Backpack (30–40L) with rain cover
- Water bottles and personal snacks
- Basic toiletries and personal hygiene items
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Personal medicines and a small first-aid kit
- Torch or headlamp with extra batteries
- Power bank for charging devices
On this trek, the risk of altitude sickness is very low. The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters. Most people only stay at that height for an hour to see the sunrise and then walk back down. Because you are not staying at a very high altitude for a long time, your body usually stays very happy. Just remember to drink water and walk at your own pace.
Poon Hill is very famous and known for its beautiful sunrise views. From here, you can see the Annapurna range with other peaks. It is one of the happiest moments of the trek and you will fall in love with its views.
Yes, the trek can be done solo as the trail is well-defined and easy to follow. However, going with a guide can make your journey smoother and more informative.
This trek is all set to give you the best experience of Nepal and your life, that too in a short time. You get the loveliest rhododendron forests ever, mountain views, village life, water falls and the best sunrise point called Poonhill. We recommend you must go for this trek as Nepal has been a favorite among trekkers for its diverse trails and you will know why once you visit there.
If you enjoy the Ghorepani trek, you might also like:
- Annapurna Base Camp (ABC): This is a 9-day trek that brings you right into the giant mountains, with close views of the iconic Fishtail peak.
- Langtang Valley: A beautiful trek that starts from Kathmandu and has amazing culture and mountain views.
- Mardi Himal: A newer trail that stays high on a ridge with pretty mountain views.
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Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Video Testimonials
Hear Trekkers Share Their Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
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