Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Family Holidays Nepal and transferred to your hotel. Kathmandu, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling streets, is the gateway to your trekking adventure. After checking in and settling into your accommodation, take the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. You might want to explore the lively Thamel district, filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely evening and prepare for your upcoming trek.
Start your day with a guided tour of Kathmandu’s iconic heritage sites. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple. Each site offers a unique insight into Nepal's rich cultural and spiritual history. After the tour, return to your hotel for trek preparation. Meet with your trek leader to go over the itinerary, check your gear, and discuss any last-minute details. Enjoy your evening at leisure, perhaps indulging in some local cuisine before heading out for your adventure.
In the morning, take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a picturesque city known for its stunning mountain views and serene lakes. Upon arrival in Pokhara, Drive to Hile, a small village that serves as the starting point of your trek. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Hile, begin your trek to Ulleri, a charming village perched at 2,050 meters. The trek takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and terraced fields. Arrive in Ulleri and check into your lodge, where you can rest and enjoy a warm meal.
Today’s trek takes you from Ulleri to Ghorepani, a journey of about 4 to 5 hours. The trail ascends steadily through lush forests and charming villages. As you climb, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Ghorepani is a popular stop for trekkers, offering stunning views and a chance to rest before heading to Poon Hill. Upon arrival in Ghorepani, check into your lodge and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views from the village. Rest and prepare for an early morning hike to Poon Hill.
Wake up early for a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill, renowned for its panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The hike takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views as the sun rises over the Himalayas. After soaking in the beauty of Poon Hill, return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue your trek to Tadapani. This trek takes approximately 4 to 5 hours and involves a descent through beautiful forests and small villages. Tadapani offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) peaks. Check into your lodge and relax after a rewarding day.
Today’s trek takes you from Tadapani to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village. The trek lasts about 3 to 4 hours and descends through dense rhododendron forests and terraced fields. Ghandruk is known for its traditional stone houses and vibrant culture. The village offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks. Explore Ghandruk’s charming streets, visit the local museum, or simply enjoy the serene environment. Check into your lodge and enjoy a warm meal while reflecting on your trekking experiences.
After breakfast, trek from Ghandruk back to Pokhara. The trek to Nayapul, a popular trekking exit point, takes about 4 to 5 hours. From Nayapul, drive to Pokhara, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Pokhara offers a range of activities, including boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the Peace Pagoda, or exploring the lakeside area. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this beautiful city.
Take a morning flight from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. Enjoy one last chance to appreciate the stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city, do some shopping, or simply relax. You might want to visit any remaining landmarks or enjoy a final meal in the vibrant Thamel district. In the evening, join a farewell dinner hosted by Family Holidays Nepal to celebrate the completion of your trek and share your experiences with fellow trekkers.
On your final day in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to prepare for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some additional time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. A representative from Family Holidays Nepal will assist you with your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable adventure and look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal in the future.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a perfect short adventure, delivering stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna range and charming village encounters. Ideal for those seeking a manageable trek with rewarding scenery and a taste of the Himalayas.
Miscellaneous:
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is renowned for its relatively easy hike, stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill, and picturesque mountain vistas. The trek typically takes you through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, and terraced fields. From Poon Hill, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making it a favorite choice for both novice and experienced trekkers.
The best times to trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) seasons. Spring offers beautiful rhododendron blooms and clear skies, while autumn provides stable weather conditions and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks. Winter can be very cold, and the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can make trails slippery and less enjoyable.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered relatively easy and is suitable for trekkers of all fitness levels, including beginners. The trek involves walking 4-6 hours per day over moderate terrain with some uphill and downhill sections. While you don’t need to be an experienced trekker, a basic level of fitness and a willingness to walk at a steady pace are important. Regular exercise before the trek can help prepare you for the experience.
For the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, you will need the following permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): This card helps with the regulation and safety of trekkers and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area, where the trek takes place. It can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Accommodation on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is primarily in teahouses or lodges. These are basic but comfortable facilities with shared rooms and common dining areas. The lodges offer simple amenities, including beds with blankets and common bathrooms. In more remote areas, amenities can be more basic. Most lodges provide meals and offer a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Food options on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek typically include a variety of traditional Nepalese dishes as well as some international options. Common meals are dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Many lodges also offer snacks, beverages, and vegetarian options. Meals are generally hearty and nutritious to keep your energy levels up throughout the trek.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is generally considered safe, especially due to its lower altitude compared to more challenging treks. However, it’s important to follow safety guidelines, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. Trekking with a guide or through a reputable agency can enhance safety and provide additional support. Always be prepared for sudden changes in weather and trail conditions.
The return journey from Ghorepani Poon Hill involves retracing your steps back to the starting point. The descent can be faster than the ascent, but it’s still important to remain cautious about trail conditions and take necessary breaks. Once you return to Pokhara, you can enjoy some relaxation and explore the city or take additional time to visit other attractions in the region before heading back to Kathmandu.