Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is an applicable trek for those people who enjoy the natural beauty and remarkable vistas of the Himalayas. This fantastic opportunity rewards trekkers with an immersive environment and pleasant atmosphere. Poonhill is also a great place to adventure and see uncommon animals and vegetation. It is easily accessible from Pokhara Valley, and in a relatively short time, you can be amid the mountains.

The most significant time to go on the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is during the pre-monsoon season (March-May) when the mountainsides are carpeted in gorgeous rhododendron blossoms turning the entire landscape red. The journey will be approximately 44 kilometres long, depending on your route. The trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani begins and ends in Nayapul. Trekking through a blossoming rhododendron woodland, terraced hills, and rice fields at a high elevation is stunning.

The major highlight of the Ghorepani Poonhill trek is the climb to Poonhill, from where you can see the panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna and Annapurna South can be seen at sunrise from the lovely viewpoint. This trek is moderately challenging and can even be done by beginners who don’t have any trekking experience. The hikers can march forward at their own pace. There’s almost no risk of altitude sickness as the highest elevation on this trek is around 3200 meters.

Trip Highlights of Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

• Immerse into the eccentric culture, rural lifestyle, local foods and receive warm hospitality.
• Pass by Oak trees and a trail lined with beautiful crimson rhododendrons.
• Be rewarded with the sight of some of the world’s highest mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manaslu.
• Indulge in an authentic cultural atmosphere and get insights into the lifestyle of the Gurung community.
• Enjoy the magnificent sunrise with 360 panoramic mountain views from Poon Hill(3210m).
• Pass through the picturesque terraced rice fields, snow-covered peaks and roaring waterfalls.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Costs

For an all-inclusive tour, you’ll spend between USD50-60 per person per day, depending on the services you receive, the number of people in your group, food, and transportation arrangement.

If you’re travelling from the capital city, Kathmandu, the charge is USD500 to USD800 per person for a 5-day trek, including transportation. Rather than hiring a private guide, travelling with a trekking group has advantages.

Much of the cost of the all-inclusive tour includes:

• Airport arrival and departure
• Three meals a day during the trek
• Trekking permit, TIMS, and other entry fees
• Trekking guide with English speaking experience and a licence
• Teahouse accommodation on the trek
• A route map

A standard rate for both a guide and a porter is around USD50 per day. Your guide will be able to provide first-aid assistance in the event of an emergency. If you hire a porter, make sure he has the proper equipment and is insured.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is only possible with the proper authorisation. Unlike an all-inclusive tour, the trekkers must pay a relevant permit fee before the trip. You will not be able to take part in this adventure unless you have obtained a permit from:

Most trekkers will spend USD30 to USD 40 per day on basic lodging and food. All the guesthouses serve the traditional Nepalese cuisine of rice, dal soup, vegetable curry, alcohol, soft drinks, and snacks priced according to the menu. For a cost of 50-100 NPR, you can refill your water bottle in the teahouse.

Trekkers should opt for Travel insurance as the trail passes through many remote areas. Insurance covers evacuation and any other expenses incurred due to unanticipated circumstances such as personal illness, natural disasters, political strikes, and so on.

Best Season for Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

The best time for Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is during the pre-monsoon(March-May) season. Though the temperature drops and the wind picks up, Autumn (September to November) is also considered an ideal time to go hiking. The spring season provides the trekkers with a clear sky and panoramic views of the mountains.

The summer(June- August) season is unsustainable for trekking due to the poor visibility caused by heavy rains. Summer trekking is rainy for most of the time, making the trail soggy causing landslides and path blockages. If you’re prepared enough to overcome the freezing temperature in winter(November- February), then the clear sky in the cold will reward you with a breathtaking vista of the Himalayas.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Difficulty

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is moderately difficult due to its elevation of 3,210 meters and its solitary setting. It is one of the most relaxing treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The travel will be approximately 45 kilometres long, depending on your route.

From Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani, expect a strenuous trek up the stone stairway. You’ll need to walk for 6 to 7 hours every day for seven days to complete this significant ascent. Since the journey’s highest point is around 3200 meters, some trekkers experience signs of Acute Mountain Sickness, but the condition does not worsen. Although the risk of altitude sickness has decreased, it is still necessary to maintain good health to avoid Mountain Sickness.

The height, topography, and weather conditions influence the walk’s difficulty. Heavy rain, landslides, and slick trails, on the other hand, might make the expedition difficult. To avoid getting lost, always remain on your trekking track.

Travellers who wish to make the journey easier can train their bodies to increase stamina and endurance. Before the trek, do some cardiovascular exercises and day excursions with steep hill climbs to prepare yourself for the changing path on the hiking trail.

What to Pack ?

• A torch: If the power goes out in the middle of the night. To go up Poon Hill for sunrise, you’ll need a torch because you’ll be trekking in the dark.
• Backpack
• Water filter: Any water filter because there are various water taps along the route where you can refill water, and it is also environmentally beneficial.
• Waterproof and sturdy boots
• Sunglasses
• Hiking Poles: Sustains the climb while passing through steep terrain.
• Lightweight mittens (Windproof Gloves): This would prevent cold freezing hands and make high altitude viewing points more enjoyable.
• Refillable water bottle
• Shampoo and soap: In case the lodge fails to provide these
• Thermal Layer
• Towel
• Camera and portable charger
• Mosquito spray
• Sleeping Bag: In Ghorepani, it will get chilly, so use summer sleeping bags with blankets.
• Waterproof/ Windproof dress (Jackets, Shirts)
• Snacks: Prices rise as you ascend, so it’s better to stock up on hiking snacks.
• Rehydration salts/electrolytes: Dehydration is possible at altitude, so bring some electrolytes.
• Poncho/raincoat

FAQs of Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

1) HOW FIT DO YOU HAVE TO BE FOR THE POON HILL GHOREPANI TREK?

To climb the rugged terrain of Poon Hill, you must have some physical stamina. While some amount of physical fitness is essential, you must be able to stand and walk every day for a minimum of 5 hours several days in a row. Your fitness level will primarily determine your daily trekking time. The Poon Hill journey follows a well-worn trail throughout. Even if you are not in your prime fitness, there is a lot of stone paving between villages with the big stairs (Tikhedunga to Ulleri) that you must be comfortable with.

    2) WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE POON HILL GHOREPANI TREK?

During the pre-monsoon season (March-May), the weather is great, the sky is clear, and it isn’t too cold. The summer months (June to August) are warm and enjoyable for a Poon Hill trek. Because summer in Nepal coincides with the monsoon season, it is prudent to prepare for the possibility of rain during this time.

Apart from Spring, Autumn (September to November) is another ideal season for hiking. The weather becomes colder and windier. During the winter, temperatures on the walking route to Poon Hill might drop below freezing in certain spots. However, the temperature rarely dips below freezing. So don’t be afraid to go trekking in this area if you’re eager for an icy adventure.

3) WHAT TO DO ABOUT DRINKING WATER ON THE POON HILL GHOREPANI TREK?

With the establishment of the drinking water project in 2020, Ghorepani now has abundant water sources. However, to prevent any contamination or purity issue, a supply of sterilising tablets, such as Milton tablets or Aqua tabs, can be stocked. These tablets or drops are sold in packs and contain the appropriate chemical dosage to purify water adequately. Many experienced hikers also bring Pump Water Filters. Another option is to get your reusable water bottle, which you can refill in the teahouse for a fee. Polycarbonate disposable bottles are prohibited because they are not recyclable.

  4)WHAT LOCAL SUPPORT IS THERE ON THE POON HILL GHOREPANI TREK?

People in the villages are pretty friendly. Local people who own tea houses have generously offered their homes to trekkers passing by. Even a porter and a guide are on hand to assist you. They are medically trained and will carry your bags and assist you with essential communication. If trekkers plan to campaign outdoors, the porters will help you set up the campsite for the night. They can even handle the main rucksack and attend to the entire group’s needs.

 5) DO YOU REQUIRE A SLEEPING BAG ON THE POON HILL TREK?

Although the lodge and teahouse offer a certain comfort level with well-equipped supplies, some trekkers prefer to campaign in the open air. So, if the trekkers intend to campaign, they will need a sleeping bag. A sleeping bag will serve as a protective barrier on chilly nights.