Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
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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.
Included
- Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara on twin sharing basis.
- Private Arrival & Departure transfers
- Full board meals while trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
- Accommodation in teahouse during the trek on twin sharing basis.
- Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek
- Treks Gears - sleeping bag, duffel bag etc for the use during the trip.
- Professional local experienced Trek Leader / Guide trained in Wilderness First Aid.
- Comprehensive First Aid Kit
- Respective region ( Annapurna) trekking map. TIMS Card & Trek Permit
- Necessary Porters to carry all personal gear and group equipment.
- Proper Insurance of all staff including porters.
- Warm clothing & trekking gear for staff including porters: Gortex jacket & trousers, fleece jacket and pant, trekking shoes / boots, woolen hat, gloves, shocks etc.
- Trekking map
Excluded
- Nepal Tourist Visa fee
- Your travel insurance of any kind
- International Airfare and Airport Tax
- Lunch and Dinner except mentioned on Itinerary
- All Drinks and main meals in cities.
- Tips to trekking staffs.
- Items of personal expenses like hot shower, battery charge, Telephone, beverages, hot mineral water during trekking etc.
Tour Plan
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m) / Transfer to Hotel
HAT Representative will be waiting with your name plate just outside the International Airport in Kathmandu. After your arrival, we will organize your transportation to the designated hotel in Kathmandu. Spend the afternoon browsing the beautiful streets of Thamel or visit the nearby Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, we will meet for welcome dinner and tour briefing.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 2 Kathmandu Sightseeing / Trek Preparation
After breakfast, we will join guided tour to visit various sites in the valley - most of them listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get off and browse the famous Pashupatinath Temple, Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath. Come back to hotel and prepare for the morning flight, drive and short trek the next day.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu
Day 3 Domestic flight to Pokhara (846m) [30-Minutes], drive to Nayapul (2070m) [1-Hour], & trek to Ulleri (2045m) [4-Hours]
After breakfast, we will board an early flight to Pokhara. The flight will be beautiful with mountain views. Pokhara is a beautiful valley of lakes and a trekker's paradise. From Pokhara, we will drive towards Nayapul for 2 hours and start our trek from there. Trek to Ulleri is mostly uphill stair climbing and can be strenuous to your knees. Carry a trekking stick to remedy that. This will also be useful when climbing downhill.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house / Ulleri
Day 4 Trek to Ghorepani (2853m) [6-Hours]
Trek to Ghorepani 2853m. This is little longer day and need to walk up for the first couple of hours steep. Banthanti is the place for the Lunch. After that, gradually climb up the forest of the Rhododendron. The stone stairs will test your climbing power as they are steep. We recommend resting at various places to avoid hurting your knee. Once at Ghorepani, you can either hike up to Poon Hill for a sunset view or just rest for the day.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house / Ghorepani
Day 5 Hike to Poonhill (3210m) [1-Hour], enjoy sunrise & trek to Tadapani (2652m) [7/8-Hours]
In the early morning ascend 40-minutes towards Poonhill (3210m). We recommend waking up around 5 am so that the sunrise isn't missed. This is the highlight of this trip that can't be simply missed. Poon Hill is the most photogenic spot in Nepal for sunrise and mountain view. Watch the sun paint the peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges to orange. It's stunning.
Later, we will return for breakfast and continue towards Deurali, Banthanti and finally to Tadapani - a 6-hour journey.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house / Tadapani
Day 6 Trek to Ghandruk (1963m) [4-Hours]
After breakfast, we will continue towards the Ghandruk, a beautiful village in the lap of Annapurna. Ghandruk is famous for their hospitality, the native Gurungs, their dialect, culture and home to the British Gurkha Battalion. Settle in for the day, with stunning views of the mountains up north and a beautiful agricultural settlement. Explore the local museum, conservation unit office and the rest of the village.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tea house / Ghandruk
Day 7 Trek to Nayapul [4-Hours] and drive to Pokhara [1-Hour]
After breakfast, continue south for about 4-hours until you reach Nayapul, the start point of trekking into the mid-Annapurna region. We will descend significantly so watch your knees and make sure you have a trekking stick for balance. We will reach Pokhara by the afternoon. After that, feel free to explore the Lakeside restaurants, bars, Fewa Lake itself and enjoy the rest of the evening.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel / Pokhara
Day 8 Drive to Kathmandu via Tourist Bus [7-Hours]
After breakfast, we will catch a tourist bus bound to Kathmandu from the beautiful city of Pokhara. The journey itself is ranked as beautiful and most-experience by world famous travel magazines like the lonely planet. You will enjoy the journey along the beautiful Trishuli and Marshyandi River, with stunning views on your left. Be prepared for some traffic jam before you enter the valley of Kathmandu. In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner and share our experience.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel / Kathmandu
Day 9 Airport Transfer / Departure
We are back where we started in the capital city. Pack your bags and make sure you have brought some sovereigns to take back home to friends and family. Enjoy your breakfast in relief. Hiking Adventure staff will arrange your transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport according to your departure schedule.
Included Meals: Breakfast