Trekking · Nepal
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
A 4–5 day beginner classic to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, through rhododendron forest.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the most popular short trek in Nepal, and the classic first taste of the Himalaya. In just 4–5 days you climb through villages and rhododendron forest to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for a sunrise panorama over the Annapurna range and Dhaulagiri, then loop back to Pokhara. It is gentle, scenic and well within reach of fit first-timers.
Overview and highlights
The route stays low enough that altitude is rarely a problem, while still delivering a genuine high-mountain sunrise. Highlights are the dawn climb to the Poon Hill viewpoint, the magnificent rhododendron forests between Ghorepani and Tadapani (ablaze with colour in spring), the stone-paved Gurung and Magar villages, and the optional hot springs at Jhinu Danda. It pairs naturally with the Annapurna Base Camp trek, which shares the lower trail, or with the quieter Mardi Himal trek.
Itinerary
A typical 4-day loop from Pokhara:
| Day | Stage | Approx. altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive Pokhara to Nayapul, trek to Ulleri/Tikhedhunga | 1,960 m |
| 2 | Trek to Ghorepani through forest | 2,860 m |
| 3 | Sunrise on Poon Hill (3,210 m), trek to Tadapani | 2,630 m |
| 4 | Trek to Ghandruk, drive back to Pokhara | 820 m |
You can add a fifth day via Jhinu Danda for the riverside hot springs.
Difficulty and fitness
This is an easy to moderate trek. Days are 4–6 hours of walking, the highest point is modest, and lodges are comfortable. The toughest section is the long stone staircase up to Ulleri on day one. Anyone with a reasonable fitness level can complete it, which is why it suits families and beginners. Altitude is seldom a concern here, but it is still worth understanding altitude sickness before any Himalayan trek.
Best time
Spring (March–April) is the signature season because the rhododendrons bloom, turning the forest red and pink. Autumn (October–November) gives the crispest, clearest sunrises. Both seasons are reliable; the summer monsoon brings cloud, leeches and obscured views.
Permits and cost
You need the ACAP permit (around USD 25) and a TIMS card (around USD 17–20); see trekking permits in Nepal. It is one of Nepal's most affordable treks: on-trail costs run about USD 20–35 a day, so a 4-day trek totals roughly USD 100–150 plus permits, a guide and transport.
Accommodation
Teahouses along this route are among the most comfortable in Nepal, with cosy dining rooms, hot showers and good food in Ghorepani and Ghandruk. Because it is popular, lodges fill up in peak season, so an early start each day helps secure a room.
Getting there
The trek is staged from Pokhara. A short drive reaches the Nayapul or Ulleri-side trailhead, and you finish with a drive back from Ghandruk. For kit lists and acclimatisation tips, read our Nepal trekking guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek?+
The classic loop takes 4 to 5 days from Pokhara, including the pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill on the morning after Ghorepani. Shorter 3-day versions exist, and you can extend it by adding Mardi Himal or the Annapurna Base Camp trail.
Is the Poon Hill trek good for beginners?+
Yes, it is the most popular beginner trek in Nepal. It tops out at about 3,210 metres, so altitude is rarely an issue, the trails are well maintained, and comfortable teahouses line the route. The main effort is the long stone staircase up to Ulleri.
How high is Poon Hill?+
Poon Hill stands at about 3,210 metres. From the viewpoint you get a panoramic sunrise over the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) and Machhapuchhre, which is why trekkers climb it in the dark to arrive at dawn.
What permits do I need for the Poon Hill trek?+
You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, around USD 25, plus a TIMS card, around USD 17 to 20. Both are quick to arrange in Pokhara, and a licensed guide is required for the route.
How much does the Poon Hill trek cost?+
It is one of Nepal's cheapest treks. On-trail food and lodging run about USD 20 to 35 a day, so a 4-day trek costs roughly USD 100 to 150 plus permits, a guide and transport to the trailhead.
When is the best time for the Poon Hill trek?+
Spring (March to April) is special because the rhododendron forests bloom in red and pink. Autumn (October to November) gives the clearest mountain views. Both seasons offer reliable sunrises from the viewpoint.
