Ghorepani-Poon Hill–Ghandruk Trek
The Ghorepani–Poon Hill–Ghandruk Trek is a rewarding short journey through the beautiful Annapurna region. The trail passes through lush rhododendron forests, waterfalls, terraced hillsides and traditional Gurung and Magar villages. The highlight is an early-morning hike to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters for spectacular sunrise views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre. The trek continues through Tadapani to historic Ghandruk before returning to Pokhara, combining mountain scenery, nature and authentic Himalayan culture.
TOUR ITINERARY
A day-by-day breakdown of your journey through Ghorepani-Poon Hill–Ghandruk Trek.
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu, where our representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy free time to rest or explore the surrounding area. Your guide will provide a short briefing about the trek and answer any questions regarding the journey. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2
Drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, drive to Pokhara by private vehicle, taking approximately 6–7 hours depending on road conditions. Enjoy changing landscapes, rivers, hills and rural settlements along the journey. After arriving in Pokhara, check into your hotel and relax. Depending on available time and weather, enjoy boating on Phewa Lake or visit the International Mountain Museum. Evening is free to explore Lakeside. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Day 3
Pokhara–Nayapul–Tikhedhunga/Ulleri
After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and continue toward the trekking starting point. Begin walking through Birethanti and beautiful villages surrounded by terraced fields, forests and waterfalls. The trail gradually follows the Bhurungdi Khola valley toward Tikhedhunga or Ulleri, depending on road and trail conditions. Enjoy your first evening in the mountain environment at a comfortable teahouse. Overnight at teahouse.
Day 4
Tikhedhunga/Ulleri–Ghorepani
Today is one of the more challenging walking days as the trail climbs steadily toward Ghorepani. From Ulleri, ascend through dense rhododendron and oak forests, passing small settlements and scenic viewpoints. The famous stone staircase provides a good workout before the trail gradually reaches higher elevations. As you approach Ghorepani, the landscape opens toward magnificent Himalayan views. Enjoy the evening and prepare for tomorrow's early Poon Hill sunrise. Overnight at teahouse.
Day 5
Ghorepani–Poon Hill–Tadapani–Ghandruk
Wake early and hike approximately 45 minutes to Poon Hill for a spectacular sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then continue through beautiful rhododendron forests toward Tadapani. From Tadapani, descend through forested trails to Ghandruk, one of the region's most attractive Gurung villages. Explore the village and enjoy its traditional houses and mountain views. Overnight at teahouse.
Day 6
Ghandruk–Nayapul–Pokhara
After breakfast, enjoy some time exploring Ghandruk before beginning the descent toward Nayapul. The trail passes through villages, terraced farmland and forested hills before joining the road section toward Nayapul. From Nayapul, drive back to Pokhara, taking approximately 1.5–2 hours depending on road conditions. After checking into your hotel, relax and enjoy the lively Lakeside area. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
Day 7
Drive back to Kathmandu
After breakfast, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by private vehicle, approximately 6–7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. After hotel check-in and a short rest, visit Patan Durbar Square and Boudhanath Stupa if time permits. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural folk performance. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 8
Departure from Nepal
If scheduled, enjoy an optional early-morning mountain flight for spectacular Himalayan views, including Mount Everest, weather permitting. Return to the hotel for breakfast and some free time before your departure. At the appropriate time, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Your memorable Nepal adventure concludes with warm wishes for a safe and pleasant journey home.
COST DETAILS
What is Included
Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in a standard hotel with breakfast, based on twin sharing.
Teahouse accommodation during the trek.
Private transportation as mentioned in the itinerary.
Three meals per day during the trek: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Licensed English-speaking trekking guide.
Required trekking permits and conservation-area entry fees.
Kathmandu and Pokhara sightseeing entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary.
Boating on Phewa Lake, approximately one hour.
Farewell dinner with traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural performance.
Guide's transportation, accommodation, meals and necessary expenses.
Basic first-aid support during the trek.
Not Included
Nepal visa fee and passport photographs.
International airfare.
Optional mountain flight.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Personal expenses and beverages.
Bottled/mineral water during the trek.
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging and other personal teahouse services.
Travel insurance, including emergency evacuation.
Porter service, unless specifically included in the confirmed package.
Tips for guide, driver and other support staff.
Any additional accommodation or transportation caused by delays, cancellation, weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Expenses not specifically mentioned under Price Includes.
Trip Highlights:
Sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m) with panoramic Himalayan views.
Trek through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests.
Experience traditional Gurung culture and village life in Ghandruk.
Enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre.
Book Your Trek
This trek is available year-round — complete your details below and our team will contact you to confirm your preferred travel dates.
Important:
HEALTH: No special vaccination is normally required for this trek, but consult your doctor before travelling and carry any regular medication you may need. Medical facilities become limited in the mountain areas. Bring prescription medicines and spare eyeglasses if required.
MOUNTAIN SICKNESS: Poon Hill reaches 3,210 meters, so mild altitude symptoms are possible. Walk gradually, drink sufficient water, eat regularly and inform your guide immediately if you experience persistent headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue or breathing difficulties. If symptoms worsen, descending to a lower elevation is the safest response.
WEATHER: Mountain weather can change quickly. Days may be sunny and warm while mornings and evenings can be cold. Rain or snow is possible depending on the season. Carry suitable layers and rain protection and follow your guide's advice throughout the trek.
PACKING: Pack light but prepare for changing weather. Recommended items include a warm fleece or down jacket, waterproof jacket, thermal layers, comfortable trekking trousers, waterproof trekking boots, warm socks, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, headlamp, personal medication and basic toiletries. A power bank is useful where charging facilities are limited.
THINGS TO CARRY: Your main trekking baggage should ideally be kept within the agreed porter weight limit, while your daypack should contain essential items such as water, camera, rain protection, warm clothing, sunscreen, personal medication and other necessities needed during the day's walk.
EMERGENCY AND YOUR SUPPORT TEAM: Our trekking guides are trained in basic first aid and carry a first-aid kit. Every trekker should have comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking and emergency evacuation. In an emergency, our team will coordinate appropriate evacuation and medical assistance and work with your insurance provider where necessary.
Trek FAQs
It is an easy to moderate trek suitable for reasonably fit travelers. Some sections involve long stone staircases and continuous uphill walking.
The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 ft).
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when mountain visibility and trail conditions are generally favorable.
For foreign trekkers, trekking regulations require a licensed guide on applicable routes. We provide a licensed trekking guide as part of the package.
Accommodation is provided in standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and local teahouses/lodges during the trek, generally on a twin-sharing basis.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking, medical treatment and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended before starting the trek.
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