The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, also called the ultimate short trek in the Annapurna Himalayas, is a perfect Himalayan escape for those who want to experience the beauty of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m), and its surrounding mountain ranges without extreme altitude and extensive trekking days. Crispy fresh mountain air, culture, and nature—it has it all.
The journey typically begins with a drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu, like the standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Khopra Danda Trek, and Mardi Himal Trek. However, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek itinerary of 9 days' main destinations are the Gurung village of Ghorepani and the lofty hill of Poon Hill (3,210 m). Also, the highest point that the Himalayan trip reaches makes it one of the best mid-altitude treks in Nepal.
While the entire Annapurna Trekking Region remains one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world, rivaling none other than the Everest Himalayas, home of the highest mountain peak, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), and iconic high-altitude trek routes like the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Everest Three High Passes Trek, and the Everest Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking offers a more easygoing trail.
Into the largest conservation area of Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area, the Poon Hill Trekking itinerary in no time takes you through stunning mountain landscapes featuring rhododendron trees, small but scenic traditional mountains, and close-up views of sky-towering snow-capped mountain ranges. Bookings are now open for 2026 and 2027. Get the best deal on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Cost package at Mountain Ascents!
Trip Highlights
- Guided UNESCO World Heritage Sites sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. Visit the holiest Hindu temple, Pashupatinath Temple; Boudhnath, with the largest dome structure in South Asia; and Swayambhunath (taken as the oldest Buddhist shrine).
- Short, scenic, and adventurous flight to Nepal’s city of lakes (Pokhara) from the city of temples (Kathmandu) and vice versa.
- Tiny yet scenic Gurung and Magar villages with insight into authentic Himalayan culture and genuine hospitality, such as in Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk.
- Sky-towering snow-capped mountain ranges with views of Annapurna I (8,091 m/the tenth highest mountain in the world), iconic Macchapuchre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/the seventh highest peak on earth), and a total of 18 other peaks on a clear day.
- Sneak peek of the largest conservation area of Nepal, also home to rare species of red pandas, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer, the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Magical sunrise view from a lofty hill called Poon Hill (3,210 m). Watch the first rays of sunlight gradually paint the diverse landscape in golden and orange hues, etc.
What to expect during the short trek from Kathmandu to Ghorepani Poon Hill?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu is one of the best well-balanced introductions to the majestic Himalayas of Nepal. Well-marked trekking trails well supported by teahouses, lodges, and guest houses might be even better than the Everest routes. The trekking region and its routes, like the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Everest Three High Passes Trek, and the Gokyo Lake Trek, are relatively easy to moderate treks.
The maximum elevation gain does not go beyond 3,210 m above sea level at Poon Hill itself. It also means low chances of altitude sickness and a suitable Himalayan trip for beginners, those with limited time, family trekkers, and adventurers more aligned to comfortable hiking than extensive trekking days and technical challenges. Though some days, such as from Ulleri, include stone stairs, overall the pace is gradual and relaxed.
How long is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Trail in Nepal?
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking journey is to the Annapurna region, located in central Nepal within the Annapurna Conservation Area, to the north of Pokhara. Based on the 9 days for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek itinerary, Ulleri is the official trek starting point, and to reach here, trekkers typically drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then to Ulleri via Hile. To ensure a good start, there is a flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu.
Otherwise, driving from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you would cover about 200 km, and from Pokhara to Ulleri, 70-80 km via Nayapul to arrive at Ulleri. From here, while the exact length of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Hike may vary based on the customization made, side trips you want to take, acclimatization days separated, and walking pace in general, a round trip beginning from Kathmandu takes around 9-14 days.
Cultures on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Trail
Once the foot walking begins from Ulleri to complete the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking in Nepal, trekkers pass through several mountain villages such as Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Since it is one of the best short teahouse-style treks, as you stay in teahouses along the Poon Hill Hiking Trail managed by Himalayan locals, you have better opportunities to know and understand the real Himalayan culture from the inside.
Stone-roofed houses of Gurungs and Magars featuring mani walls, prayer wheels, gompas, and monasteries often adorned by vibrant, colorful prayer flags; their warm hospitality; and their closely related yet distinctive culture, language, cultural attire, customs, and traditions add much to the cultural dimension. In a single trip of less than two weeks, you get to enjoy the epic mountain views, culture, and natural highlights. Add it to your bucket list now.
Which wildlife are visible during the short trek to Poon Hill?
Since the short trek to the Ghorepani Poon Hill trail falls under the largest conservation area of Nepal, designated so to protect its unique ecosystem, culture, and wide range of flora and fauna, while you are on the trekking route, it can also be a golden opportunity for good wildlife sightseeing. Spread over an area of 7,629 square kilometers, home to the 10th highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna (8,091 m), craft unforgettable memories.
Diverse landscapes from deep lush forests to alpine meadows and 5,000 m above sea level rugged trails with almost no vegetation and further above the sky horizon covered by snow-capped mountain giants—it all provides a perfect natural habitat for a vast species of Himalayan wildlife, including rare Himalayan black bears, red pandas, Himalayan thar, and, at higher elevations, endangered snow leopards on sight if extremely lucky.
Can you see Mount Everest from Poon Hill?
Unfortunately, no. Instead, Poon Hill, located at the center of the Annapurna Trekking Region, is famous for its 360-degree panoramic mountain views of the Mount Annapurna ranges, including I and South, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, and the distinctively shaped fishtail-like mountain, therefore named Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), especially magical during sunset and sunrise.
Much to the delight, the standard itinerary for trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill includes an early morning hike to Poon Hill from Ghorepani even before the dawn so you get to witness the otherworldly scenery when the first rays of sunlight gradually cover the Annapurna Himalayan landscapes, starting from the Annapurna summit and going to the green valleys in the hues of gold and orange; everything becomes worthwhile right there.
Where to extend your Himalayan trip to Ghorepani Poon Hill?
Yes, most of the registered and experienced trekking agencies in Nepal, such as Mountain Ascents, offer you customizable itineraries for treks and climbs such as the Manaslu Circuit Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Lake Trek, and Everest Treks, including the Ghorepani Poon Hill Hiking. On the midway, if you felt like going deeper into the Annapurna Himalayas, there’s a lot to do.
You may continue the classic Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, the formal name of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, or slightly diverge from there and continue hiking to cross the Thorong La Pass under the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Tilicho Lake, and more. Or you may also choose to add an extra day at your most preferred destinations, like Ghorepani and Ghandruk. It may incur an extra cost on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek cost, but you will not regret it.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Itinerary and Cost for 2026 and 2027
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Itinerary of 9 days begins with your arrival in the capital city of Nepal, the Kathmandu Valley. The combination of three ancient kingdoms—Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, and Basantapur—is home to at least seven of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore on the second day as part of the preparation, while the journey officially begins only on the third day.
With a flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu, a drive to Hile, and a trek to Ulleri, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Hiking marks its commencement and takes you to Ghorepani on the very next day. An overnight at Ghorepani, and then you will hike to Poon Hill early in the morning and thereafter gradually descend to Tadapani. From Tadapani trekkers gradually follow the down hill walk to Ghandruk before finally retuning to Pokhara and board flight back to Kathmandu.
This itinerary for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, also called the Annapurna Panorama Trek, allows you to maintain your pace without being rushed and is further customizable as per your requirements and preferences. Hence is called one of the best trekking routes in Annapurna, including for the years 2026 and 2027. If you are planning for family-friendly Himalayan trekking decisions or immersive nature escapes, it is a must-book.
At Mountain Ascents we strive to provide you the best services at a reasonable Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package price. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Cost is without any hidden cost, including flights to and from Pokhara, teahouses, meals, essential permits, and guides (their salary, travel insurance, trekking gear, and equipment). Further, we are offering early bird and group booking discounts on this Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek cost. Make it yours now!
Our Strengths
- Certified and Experienced Guides
- High Success Rate
- Immersive/authentic experience
- Trek/Climbing Confidence and Highly Motivated Crew