Menu
Menu
Booking for : Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek
Inquiry for : Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek
Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek
Tour Details
- Highlights of the trek
- Why Ghorepani?
- Trek Package Inclusions and Exclusions
- Packing and Equipments guidelines
Introduction
Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek is one of the top destinations to enjoy sunrise over the mountains. It is an easy yet classic trail to chase in the Annapurna region. The beautiful Rhododendron forest at Ghorepani, panoramic sunrise as well as sunset from Poon Hill and the cultural Gurung village of Ghandruk makes this trek very worthwhile. This refreshing trek flaunts the beauty of Annapurna and other adjoining Himalayas. The trek is also known as Annapurna Panorama Trek, Annapurna Sunrise Trek, Poon Hill Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Circuit Trek and so on.
The Annapurna Sunrise Trek, also famously known as the Poon Hill Trek, is a relatively easy walk meandering through villages and rhododendron forests. This is supplemented further with Ghorepani Poonhill Ghandruk trek covering these terrific destinations. This invigorating trek reveals some of the best views of the Himalayas especially from Poon Hill which is considered as the best viewpoint in the Annapurna region. Reaching a maximum altitude of 3210m, anyone with a normal level of fitness would easily undertake this trek. We can test our stamina at the Ulleri Hill with more than 3,000 stone steps, one of the world’s largest number of stone steps on a hill of its kind. Just imagine the magnificence of the sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayas illuminating the peaks of the entire range and leaving us spellbound!
Highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
♦Total Himalayan cultural experience and breathtaking views from Poon Hill
♦Poon Hill atop offers outstanding views of snow-capped mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Manaslu Himalayan ranges. Some of the most beautiful peaks Fishtail (6993m), Annapurna South (7219m), Himchuli (6441m), Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna I (8091m), giant Dhaulagiri (8167m) and many more
♦The spring season would be great because you can walk through full blooming Rhododendrons in the jungle
♦Trekkers can enjoy snow to play in winter months and until early spring season
♦Experience typical local culture of Gurung, Magar and other ethnical groups, their traditional hill-terraced farmlands and way of life
Why choose Ghorepani Poon Hill circuit trek?
♦Only a few can resist the experience of the world famous Himalayan Range of Nepal, and in this busy world, even fewer can spare a lot of time to enjoy this experience. So, if you can spend only a short time in Nepal and want to enjoy the breath-taking mountains, natural scenic beauty and cultural villages; then Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Ghandruk trek is the best and most suitable for you.
♦It is one of the top treks in the Annapurna Region because of its relatively short distance and easier routes.
♦Also, if you have a limited amount of budget, then you can go trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk, as it is one of the cost-effective treks.
♦And this trek is suitable for everyone; from beginners to experts till busy bees.
♦You will go through dense forests filled with Rhododendrons and lots of species of birds over the rivers and ultimately reach an altitude of 3210m at Poon Hill to glance at the panoramic Himalayas with Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre with sunrise over them.
What is the highest altitude of the Ghorepani trek, total distance and trek map?
♦The highest altitude in the entire trek is 3210m at the top of Poon Hill View Point, considering it as a low altitude trek on par with other treks in Nepal.
♦The trek begins from Nayapul (1010m) to Ghorepani (2850m) and back to Nayapul or Kimche through Ghandruk (1850m) route and usually takes 4 to 5 days to complete the circuit.
♦The total distance of the trek is about 45-55 km only, so it takes an average of 5-6 hours of walk each day.
Perfect weather and time for Poon Hill trek
♦Poon Hill offers one the best panoramic view of the mountains. The weather condition also supports the glance at views from Poon Hill. But this is not the case all around the year as the climate over Poon Hill can also get cloudy, blocking the beautiful scenic beauty. So, here is the guide to avoid this cloudy time of the year.
♦In autumn from End of September to Mid December and in spring from Mid February to Early May are the best times to go trekking in Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk. During this time one can fully enjoy the forest and scenic beauty of the mountains as the visibility is clear.
♦One must be careful in winter as Ghorepani region may be frozen and can experience sudden change in temperature. While in summer, the rain makes the trail wet and slippery. Around this time, the visibility is low due to cloudy weather.
What to expect from Poon Hill View Point?
♦Most trekkers partake in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in order to ascend the peak of Poon Hill View Point and enjoy the sunrise over Annapurna Region. The magnificent view of glimmering white mountains turning into a golden stack will surely contend its viewers.
♦With the epic moment captured in hearts and cameras of speculators, all the hardships and difficulties faced during the trek are sure to be forgotten.
Reach the famous, beautiful, cultural village of Ghandruk
♦Ghandruk is a beautiful slope settlement mostly inhabited by Gurung people of Nepal. The village has stone houses, stone paved paths decorated with delicate blossoms. In addition to the glorious mountains, the village looks like a surreal painting of nature.
♦Along with the stunningly close-ups of towering views of Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli mountains, trekkers also get to accustom themselves with the simple but rich cultures and traditions of the Gurung people.
What are the services provided in the Poon Hill Trekking package?
Before an individual decides to go on a journey, one should know about what to expect from that journey. While trekking in a package, trekkers should know what they will get from the cost and what not. Here, we have listed out the services that are included and excluded in the Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking package.
Trek Package Services Include:
♦All transportation services in a private tourist class vehicle during the whole trek and tour including airport transfers pick up and drop off in Kathmandu. (Chartered car, jeep, van or bus depends on group size).
♦Meals on full board basis during trek - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - 3 meals per day and overnight accommodations at Tea House lodges which are simple but very clean and hygienic.
♦All necessary trekking permits, taxes, conservation and TIMS fees.
♦Supporting staffs (trekking guide and porter), as well as all their necessary wages, meals, accommodations and insurance.
♦1 night accommodation in Pokhara on BB basis after the trek.
♦Domestic airfare or overland fare for (Kathmandu- Pokhara – Kathmandu) before and after the trek as you wish to have in your package.
♦Wilderness First aid kit pack for trekking.
(Please note: Inclusions depend on the kind of itinerary and services you need and finalize with us after sending us an enquiry.)
Trek Package Services Exclude:
♦Any services in Kathmandu except pickup and drop off.
♦Dinner after the trek in Pokhara.
♦Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral/hot water/ hot drinks/shower tea-coffee, chocolate hot drinks)
♦Tips for the guides and porters ( it is not mandatory but expected).
♦Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
♦Additional costs- extra days stay, in case of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather forecast and other unforeseen circumstances
♦Personal trekking gear for the trek.
(Please note: Exclusions depend on the kind of itinerary and services you need and finalize with us after sending us an enquiry.)
Suggestions for packing and necessary equipments
Since the trek is on a hillside and the trekkers are required to walk a long way while carrying their luggage, you are suggested to carry only necessary items and size down your luggage as much as possible.
Here are the lists of items that are suggested to pack for the Ghandruk trek:
Personal Equipments for the trip
- 3-4 season sleeping bag with hood
- Thermarest self-inflating sleeping pad or foam mat
- Main luggage- Rucksack or Duffel
- 30 - 40 liter Daypack- to carry water bottles, camera, lunch & extra clothing
- Stuff sacks and bags for keeping your gear dry and organized
- Water bottles with a wide mouth
- A pair adjustable trekking poles (optional)
- Insulated plastic mug (optional)
- Pocket knife Swiss army style (optional)
- Toiletries bag for toilet paper, soap, shaving items, toothpaste, toothbrush etc
Footwear
- Running shoes or sandals - to be used in camps/ teahouse lodges
- Hiking boots - good quality
- Gaiters - a pair to keep boots dry if walking through deep snow or on wet ground
- Woolen or Pile Socks - heavy weight wool to be worn over the liner socks
- Liner Socks - smooth thin liner socks to reduce getting blisters
- Knee or ankles support pad
Clothing items for trip
- Gore-Tex pants and jacket with hood
- Medium weight down jacket with hood
- Light trekking trousers
- Long sleeve light colored polypropylene shirts
- PolarTec fleece jackets
- Thermal underwear for both top & bottom
- PolarTec fleece pant
- Personal undergarments
- Quick dry type towel
- Casual wears for before and after the trek
Handwear
- Polypropylene liner gloves
- Fleece gloves
- Good quality mittens or gloves
Headwear
- Warm woolen or fleecy hat/balaclava
- Sun hat or cap with bandana for shading the neck
- Bandana or scarf
- Headlamp for use at night around the camp with extra batteries and spare bulbs
- High quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection
- Dust mask
Other Travel Accessories
- Sunscreen and lip salve SPF 30 or above
- Insect repellant
- Water purification tablets (iodine or chlorine)
- Favorite snack items
- Reading & writing materials and cards
- Camera, memory card and extra battery
- Passport photo copy & photos
- Insurance certificate copy
- Earplugs (optional)
- Baby wipes (optional)
- Anti bacterial hand gel (optional)
Personal first aid kit pack
- Any personal medications
- Malaria prophylactic tablets
- Antibiotics capsules
- Imodium and anti amoebiasis, bacterial tablets
- Blister treatment plasts
- Dehydration solution
- Analgesic- Paracetamol, Aspirin
- Anti cold tablets
- Diclofenac gel
- Bandages
- Antiseptic cream & throat lozenges
- Diamox for AMS
- Sanitary pad (for women)
- Ear & eye drop
Guidelines!
- A travel insurance policy that covers medical treatment is recommended for all tourists.
- Similarly, we recommend you to make sure that the insurance covers activities such as trekking, rafting etc. that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal
- Getting special vaccinations are not necessary when visiting Nepal.
- We still recommend that you consult with your physician regarding special immunizing against any tropical disease.
- We recommend that you undertake training programs to be physically fit if you plan to go high-altitude trekking or mountaineering when you’re visiting Nepal.
- Please make sure that salads and fruits are washed with purified water or peeled when eating out.
- Beware of food that has been kept out in the open for long.
- Always make sure that your water is clean by opting for boiled and then cooled water, treated water or sealed water from reputed brand.
- Always carry a bottle of water when trekking or venturing off away from the city/ town.
- Always carry and use mosquito repellant when in Terai region or during summers
- We provide a handy medical first aid kit while travelling anytime with us
Day 1,Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (823m) and trek to Ulleri (2050m/6725ft)
We take an early morning flight to Pokhara and enjoy amazing views of the Himalayas from the right side of our plane. Upon arrival in the beautiful lake city, we are rewarded with magnificent views of the Himalayas including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, the five peaks of Annapurna and others.
We drive 2 hrs through the stunning terraced farms along the Bhurungdi Khola (River) to Tikhedhunga (1570m) where you will have a nourishing lunch. Lunch is a usually long and relaxing affair throughout your trip, which gives you ample time to write a diary, wash, explore the area or simply stretch your legs and enjoy the atmosphere. Right after, the hike starts passing through sub-tropical valley forests, sometimes on the carved trail on the side of the cliffs and ends at Ulleri. The Ulleri Hill with thousands of steps and boulders that continually go upward will really prove a test of our stamina. We reach Ulleri by late afternoon.
Overnight in a tea house at Ulleri. Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Flight time: 20 mins; Trek time: 3 hrs; Trek Distance: 8 kms/5 miles
Day 2,Trek Ulleri to Ghorepani (2860m/9383ft)
After breakfast, we ascend to the Ghorepani village. The name Ghorepani in Nepali means ‘horse-water’ due to it being an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker's stop. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls for selling local products and crafts. The town has two parts: one in a saddle and the other a few hundred feet lower. We stop at the higher part of the Ghorepani village that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Annapurna South and Nilgiri mountains. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, we begin to feel the chilly weather especially in the evenings.
Overnight in a tea house at Ghorepani. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek time: 4-5 hrs; Trek Distance: 10 kms/6.4 miles
Day 3,Trek Ghorepani to Tadapani (2700m) with morning hike to Poonhill (3210m/10531ft)
To catch the sunrise over the Himalayas, we make an early morning climb along the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill, the most popular trekking destination of the Annapurna region. It is also a great viewpoint to enjoy the amazing views of Mustang, Pokhara and more than 20 of the highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snowy peaks of the high mountains loom above and around us glowing in the morning light.
After taking photographs and having some coffee or tea or hot chocolate, we return back to Ghorepani. After breakfast, we head east and climb a nearby ridge. We descend through rhododendron forests, pass by spectacular waterfalls along the way and reach Tadapani to spend the night.
Overnight in a tea house at Tadapani. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek time: 5-6 hrs; Trek Distance: 11 kms/6.8 miles
Day 4,Trek Tadapani to Ghandruk to Kimche(1940m/6364ft) and drive to Pokhara
From Tadapani, we make a steep descent through the dense and dark forest of old Rhododendron trees. When the rhododendron trees are in full bloom, these forests actually turn into amazing gardens. Depending on the season of travel, we also get to enjoy cherry blossoms in bloom on the slopes. We enter the village of Ghandruk, a slope settlement with stone houses mostly inhabited by the Gurung people. Along with enjoying the stunningly close-up towering views of Fishtail, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli mountains, we also acquaint ourselves with the simple but rich cultural traditions of the Gurung people at the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk. After lunch, we walk further down to Kimche where our journey on foot comes to an end. We meet your private jeep waiting to take us back to Pokhara to our hotel.
In the evening, we enjoy some free time on our own exploring and strolling around the buzzing tourist market and nightlife with many lively lakeside restaurants and shops. You can take a massage, buy souvenirs and shop etc.
Overnight in your hotel at Pokhara. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Trek time: 5.5 hrs; Trek Distance: 8 kms/5 miles; Drive time: 2.5 hrs
Day 5,Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport and fly back to Kathmandu. Our representative will transfer you to your hotel.
Flight time: 20 mins; Meals: Breakfast
♦♦♦♦♦♦
* Please send us an enquiry with your details for price and further information.
Bhaskar
Bhaskar has been part of The Explore Nepal team since 1991 when he was 20 years old and is one of our most experienced trekking guides.“I fell in love with trekking on my first trip to into the Himalayas. It was the Annapurna circuit trek, which remains my favourite trek in Nepal. The 360 degree views of the 8000+m mountains never fail to impress me. Whilst witnessing local cultures in the villages along the way, this trek is also well supplied with many comfortable accommodation options”.
Chandra
Chandra has been working with The Explore Nepal Group for over 25 years. He comes from Solukhumbu and has always loved the mountains. He is our cook for our camping trips and definitely makes your camping holiday in Nepal worthwhile with his amazing tasting food. He says, “being remote and camping is what I love and also love to share what I cook.”
Recommended Tour Packages
Contact Details
Binayak Marg Kamaladi, Kathmandu Nepal
+977 1-5326130
+977 1-5347081
Mon - Fri | 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
