
Poonhill trek:
Poon Hill is located just 3190m above Ghorepani and offers a brilliant 360-degree view of the Himalayan massifs including the Dhaulagiri range and Annapurna range. The most incredible thing is, from this hill, you are able to see more than 30 different white mountain peaks, including two eight thousand mountains (Dhaulagiri - 8163m. Annapurna I - 8091m). On clear days, even the Pokhara valley can be seen, so this short, easily accessible and a fairly accessible trek, the Ghorepani trail is a perfect starter for someone who isn't sure of his walking capabilities, or only has a few days available and wishes to discover a lot.
The trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill (Poon Hill) which is located in the Annapurna region, is truly called all the best of the trekking in Nepal for beginners. The trek offers the spectacular mountain scenery along with charming villages inhabited particularly by the Gurungs Magars, dense rhododendron forests full of birds, and deep sub-tropical valleys, all set below the Annapurnas with the picturesque peak of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Peak) dominating the skyline. One of the important highlights of this trip is to make a climb on Poon Hill, possibly the most spectacular mountain scapes on Earth. When the sun rises, it touches the snow-capped summits of the Himalayan giants, Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna (8,091m) along with a maze of other peaks, there gradually appear, it forms a magical land which you won't be able to forget.
Poonhill trek highlights:
- Panoramic view of Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Varaha Shikhar, and Lamjung Himal from Poonhill view tower.
- Ghorepani Poonhill: Reach 3,210m for stunning vistas.
- Explore pretty Ghandruk village and its farmland.
- Experience the ethnic charm of Ghorepani, a Gurung village.
- Suitable for all ages, a short and enjoyable trek.
- No worries about altitude sickness.
- Enjoy views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
Trip Info:
- Trek Start:
- Usually begins in Nayapul.
- Requires ACAP permit and TIMS card.
- The trail gradually ascends through diverse landscapes.
- Accommodation:
- Teahouses/lodges along the route offer basic lodging.
- Mostly private rooms with attached bathroom available.
- Basic amenities like beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms.
- Meals:
- Teahouses provide meals: Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup), noodles, rice dishes, etc.
- Menu with western food items also available throughout the trek.
- Carrying some energy bars and snacks is recommended.
- Typical Day:
- Start early in the morning for better weather and views.
- Trek for about 6-8 hours a day, with breaks in between.
- Reach teahouse for the night, rest, and explore.
- Communication:
- Mobile network coverage, every where in trek.
- Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi, but it might be slow and unreliable.
- Electricity and Water:
- Hot showers might be available for an additional fee.
- Safe drinking water: carry purification methods or buy bottled water.
- Tipping:
- Tipping is a common practice to show appreciation for good service.
- You can tip guides, porters, and teahouse staff if you're satisfied.
- Trek Season:
- Best seasons: Autumn (clear weather) and Spring (blooming rhododendrons).
- Winter is colder but less crowded. Summer/Monsoon brings rain and more challenge.
PoonHill trek difficulty:
For Beginners:
- Ghorepani trek is suitable for beginners.
- The trail is well-marked and doesn't involve any technical climbing.
- Trekking distances each day are manageable, usually around 10-15 kilometers.
- The gradual ascents and descents make it accessible for those new to trekking.
- It's a great introduction to trekking in Nepal's beautiful landscapes.
For Children:
- With proper preparation and considering the child's age and fitness, children as young as 10 years old can enjoy the trek.
- It's essential to ensure they are physically fit and acclimatize properly.
- We provide experienced guides who can adapt the pace to accommodate children.
For Older Adults:
- Ghorepani trek is a popular choice for older adults.
- The well-established teahouse network allows for comfortable accommodations.
- It's essential for older trekkers to pace themselves and acclimatize properly.
- It's also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on the trek.
For Experienced Trekkers:
- While Ghorepani is relatively easy, experienced trekkers might find it enjoyable due to the stunning scenery.
- Consider extending your trek to include the Annapurna Base Camp or other challenging routes in the region.
- Experienced trekkers can complete the Ghorepani trek in a shorter time if they prefer a faster pace.
Day 01: Nayapul to Tikhedhunga (1,540 meters)
- Start the trek from Nayapul, a one-hour drive away.
- Short 15-minute walk along the Modi Khola to reach Birethanti (1,065m), a bustling village.
- Follow the trail along the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola.
- Steady climb to Hille (1,495m) and then reach Tikhedhunga (1,540m).
- Trekking Time: Around 4-5 hours
Day 02: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860 meters)
- Begin with a steep climb to Ulleri, a Magar village at 2,070m.
- Continue ascending through forests to Banthanti (2,250m).
- Trek to Nangethanti (2,860m) and finally reach Ghorepani (2,860m).
- Trekking Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
Day 03: Ghorepani - Poonhill (3,190m) - Tadapani (2,630m)
- Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise and Himalayan views.
- Return to Ghorepani for breakfast before trekking to Tadapani.
- Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and more.
- Trekking Time: About 6-7 hours
Day 04: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940 meters)
- Start the day with a descent through forests.
- Reach Ghandruk (1,940m), a Gurung village with unique culture and mountain views.
- Trekking Time: Around 3-4 hours
Day 05: Ghandruk to Nayapul, then to Pokhara
- Enjoy an easy downhill trek to Nayapul.
- Drive to Pokhara from Nayapul.
- Transfer to the airport or overnight stay in a hotel in Pokhara.
What's Included:
- Private transportation from Pokhara to Nayapul (trek start) and Nayapul(trek end), back to Pokhara.
- Four nights lodge accommodation with attached bathrooms (if possible).
- All standard meals during the trek: 4 lunches, 3 dinners, and 4 breakfasts.
- Experienced and qualified English-speaking trek guide his/her expenses, including meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and necessary equipment.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses.
What's Excluded:
- International flight costs.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees (USD50 for a 30-day stay).
- Additional accommodation, meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
- Personal expenses: shopping, snacks, drinks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, phone calls, etc.
- Personal clothing and gear.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Additional costs due to circumstances beyond our control, like weather, safety modifications, illness, etc.