Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: Hidden Gem of Nepal

One of the most difficult and comparatively simpler hikes to the lovely ethnic village of the Annapurna region is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. You can reach one of Nepal’s most well-known views of the Annapurna range thanks to this fantastic hike.

While taking in the splendor of rhododendron forests, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking in Nepal will allow you to take in the Himalayan panorama and provide you the chance to interact with the locals.

The finest tour for individuals who want to fully experience nature and its richness is this one.

Additionally, Poonhill provides you with a breathtaking view of the vast Himalayas, including the Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna, and South Annapurna ranges.

This moderate trip is located in the Annapurna region, where the peak elevation is 3210 meters.

You will be able to see magnificent paddy fields, cozy villages, and terraced hillsides throughout this journey, in addition to the wonderful culture and way of life of Gurung and Magar ethnic groups.

Two of the biggest Gurung communities in the Annapurna region are Ghorepani and Ghandruk, which have distinct and endearing Gurung and Magar populations.

You will eventually arrive at the target location in Ghorepani if you follow historic pathways that connect local settlements, travel through rhododendron forests, and traverse rice paddies.

The Poon Hill climb is renowned as a photographer’s haven since it allows you to record every detail of the breathtaking Himalayan mountains and the surrounding scenery.

Trekking in this lovely land with the charming settlements of ethnic communities is also a special joy.

Adventure activities during the trek

You may or may not wish to undertake several things while on your trek. There are countless alternatives for adventure sports and cultural trips once you arrive in Nepal.

You can decide to spend one day exploring Pokhara, Kathmandu, and the trails. On your way home from the trip, you can also choose to indulge in a spa treatment or a visit to a hot spring.

During your visit, you can also choose to go zip-flying, bungee jumping, helicopter tours, and other activities. As a result, the total cost of your expedition may vary depending on the optional activities you choose.

Highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Several Kathmandu locations, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• best views of dawn and sunset
• The breathtaking Himalayan range may be seen from 3210-meter Poon Hill.
• Discover the largest Gurung and Magar villages in Ghandruk and Ulleri, respectively, and take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna, and others.
• Enjoy Pokhara’s vibrant nightlife besides the lake.
• Visit Pokhara, a tourist destination.
• Learn about the Gurung and Magar communities’ traditions and culture.
• See the traditional rural lifestyle in Nepal.

How to Get to Poon Hill

For all foreign hikers, the Poon Hill trip begins in Kathmandu. The national one, however, begins with their respective location.

For tourists, climbing Poon Hill is the ideal experience because it offers the best views of several Himalayan communities and peaks. You can travel to Poon Hill from Kathmandu by a variety of routes. Around 271 kilometers separate Poon Hill from Kathmandu. However, you must travel to a different location, which lengthens the distance and gives you the nicest feeling during the journey. To start the journey, you must first travel to Pokhara.

Kathmandu to Pokhara

Pokhara is recognized as Nepal’s capital and the largest city because it is home to the country’s second-largest population. From 827 meters in the south to 1,740 meters in the north, the altitude varies. Roadways and airplanes are the major two modes of transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara. The Prithvi Highway connects Kathmandu to Pokhara over a distance of around 204.5 kilometers. On the other hand, if you decide to fly, you will arrive much sooner. The flight will last approximately 30 minutes.

Pokhara to Tikhedhunga

You must leave Pokhara the following day for Tikhedhunga after getting enough rest. To begin with, travel first from Pokhara to Nayapul, which is around 46 KM away and takes about 1.5 hours to reach. Start your trek from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga after Nayapul. Seven kilometers separate Tikhedhunga from Nayapul in western Nepal.

Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Trek towards Ghorepani starting from Tirlhedhunga. It takes roughly 5 to 6 hours to travel the 12 KM from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani. In Nepal’s northern-central Dhaulagiri zone, in the Myagdi district, sits the lovely village of Ghorepani. At an elevation of 9429 feet, the area is located 17 KM from the district capital Beni.

Ghorepani to Poonhill

Trek to Poon hill, the final target, from Ghorepani. 1.5 KM separates Ghorepani from Poonhill. Poon Hill is also located at a height of 3,210 meters. It is one of the most well-known vistas in the world and is second only to Kala Patthar in Nepal in terms of popularity. Along with the stunning mountains, you can see several villages’ residents who belong to various ethnic groups, cultures, and traditions.

Outline Itinerary for the Poon Hill Trek

Note: The Following numbers denote the number of days you will be spending at the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
01: Arrival day in Kathmandu
02: Kathmandu Sightseeing in
03: Fly to Pokhara and drive to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga – starting off the Poonhill Ghorepani trekking.
04: Trek to Ghorepani (2855 m).
05: Climb to Poon Hill for great Himalayas views and trek to Ghandruk (2000 m).
06: Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara.
07: Drive back to Kathmandu.
08: Final departure.

The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes about 6-7 hours. Pokhara’s downtown center can be explored on foot in the evening. In Pokhara, there are numerous cultural performances, live music events, and concerts every evening.

In Pokhara, you may watch a variety of shows by the lake. After that, from Pokhara, take a 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul and hike for about 4-5 hours to reach Tikhedhunga.

Similarly, we will hike from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani, which is at a height of 2874m. Discover the village in the area and take in Ghorepani’s breathtaking natural surroundings.

After trekking to Poonhill and Tadapani, reach the well-known Gurung village of Ghandruk. After spending some time in Ghandruk, drive to Pokhara from Nayapul and then return on foot.

Suggested Itinerary for Ghorepani PoonHill Trek

This trek is typically completed in 5 days (2 days to reach Ghorepani, and 3 days to return to Nayapul). However, keep in mind that a lot relies on how quickly your trek and how you like to enjoy your hike.

Both approaches are equally rewarding while completing this excursion, which may be done either way. You’ll be driven from Pokhara to Nayapul, where your trip will formally start.

Best time for the Poon Hill Trek

The trek to the wonderful village in Annapurna Ghorepani Poonhill can be done anytime throughout the year. However, as everything has its pros and cons likewise, there are several benefits as well as disadvantages in each season and you have to balance the trek yourself.

Spring (March to May)

One of the most amazing times to go on the journey is from March to May. The days are warmer from March to May, which makes it acceptable for the journey because this trek is at a relatively low height.

Additionally, the days are sunny and clear, creating stunning panoramas. In April, when the greenery is in full flower, it is at its best. This hike is ideal for all nature enthusiasts and showcases the vibrant hue of the national flower of Nepal, the rhododendron.

On the other side, the temperature fluctuates between 10 and 24 degrees Celsius, with Poon Hill itself experiencing temperatures below freezing.

When the sun rises, they provide tea and coffee to lighten the atmosphere. The greatest of Poonhill can be seen during this period because there won’t be any rain and the skies will be clear.

Monsoon (June to August)

Most people love visiting Monsoon since it is lovely year-round. We adore the monsoon for several reasons.

Together with the breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains, the greenery appears pristine and new. Sometimes, rain clouds will obscure the mountains, but that only adds to their allure.

At the higher elevations of this trek, the temperatures are possibly a little less chilly than in the spring. There are temperatures from 9 and 24 degrees Celsius.

You might be fortunate and have no rain at all, but most people can anticipate daily little intervals of rain. The paths will be slicker due to the downpour.

Monsoon season is the best time to go hiking if you want to do it quietly and without a lot of other people around. It can be just as lovely to sip hot tea while watching the rain fall outside in your teahouse.

Autumn(September to November)

The Poon Hill trek is at its best in the autumn. Autumn, which typically begins in September and lasts until October, is a popular trekking season at Poon Hill.

Trekkers choose this time of year since there is little to no rain, which makes the trek easier and more convenient.

Additionally, the bright skies during this season provide a sweeping view of the magnificent Himalayas as well as the surrounding natural scenery. The finest season for hikers is now, thanks to the brilliant blue skies and tolerable temperatures.

The trails to Poon Hill will be busier because this may be the greatest season to hike across the Himalayas.

In Nepal, autumn is when most celebrations take place. Along with the scenery, autumn in Nepal offers the opportunity to experience its culture and events.

Autumn weather is similar to spring weather in that it cools off as the season progresses. However, expect temperatures in the range of 10 to 24 degrees Celsius, with Poon Hill itself seeing below-freezing temperatures.

Winter( December to February)

In comparison to other Himalayan climbs, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trip is a low-altitude trek. The winter is another time to complete this trek.

In Nepal, the winter months of December through February are when temperatures drop below freezing at higher altitudes. However, Ghorepani’s temperatures are manageable with thick clothes and appropriate precautions.

The daytime temperatures will still be around 15 degrees Celsius, which is extremely suitable for hiking, but the mornings and evenings will be below freezing.

Overall, this month’s odds of rain are generally slim. But there might be a little dusting of snow.

Again, winter is perfect if you want to enjoy the quiet, uncrowded outdoor exploration. as there won’t be as many hikers on it. Furthermore, finding a place to stay at a teahouse won’t be an issue.

Mountain views will also be breathtaking in the chilly air.

Accommodation in Poon Hill Trek

One of Nepal’s most fulfilling treks in terms of both the natural and cultural landscapes is the one to Poonhill. There are many differences between the accommodations along the way to Poon Hill, which range from luxurious to basic.

The sort of lodging depends on your preferences and budget in Pokhara, where the trip will begin and end. The accommodations will get simpler as you ascend higher in the isolated area.

Fortunately, most of the tea shops along the Ghorepani hike have comfortable rooms available. Twin beds are the norm in rooms. Only a small number, nevertheless, have attached restrooms.

On the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, a twin room will often run you $3–6 per night.

The tea houses where you will be staying, however, are where you are expected to dine.

As you check-in, you will typically be asked to place your food order. In addition, the quaint tea houses in this region are constructed of wood and stone and offer a comfortable setting for unwinding after a strenuous day of trekking.

Foods at Poon Hill Trek

The meals taste even better after a day of hiking. The Poon Hill hike is one of many in Nepal that offers classic Nepali cuisine.

Similar to this, you can discover dishes like pasta, fried potatoes, pancakes, and perhaps the less well-known Dal Bhat. You’ll grow to adore Nepal’s national dish, dal bhat.

Your energy for the journey the following day will be increased by eating dal, lentil soup, rice, and a variety of vegetables cooked into a curry.

After a long day of trekking, you’ll feel more energized after a nutritious and satisfying supper. The same goes for drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, as well as tea and coffee.

Along the course, you can also get food like energy bars, nuts, chocolate, etc. However, the price of these will be high at Poon Hill.

You can thus bring some from Pokhara, the starting and conclusion points of your vacation, with you.

Breakfast

• Chapati with honey, peanut butter, or jam
• Eggs
• Boiled, Scrambled, Fried eggs
• Plain, Vegetable, Cheese omelet
• Pancakes
• Pancake with jam or honey
• Apple, Chocolate pancake
• Porridge and Cereals
• Oats and porridge
• Milk
• Soups
• Potatoes
• Bread and Chapati
• Plain toast with jam, honey, or peanut butter
• French toast, cheese toast
• Tibetan bread

Lunch

• Dal Bhat (veg and non-veg )
• Cheese, Vegetable, Egg, Tuna, and mixed fried rice
• Noodles
• Vegetable, egg, cheese, mixed fried noodles
• Momos
• Vegetable, buff, chicken, cheese, potato momos
• Chicken, Mushroom, mixed pizza
• Pasta and Macaroni
• Spaghetti

Dinner

• Lunch and dinner at Poon Hill are very similar. After a thrilling day of hiking, you will eventually arrive at the teahouse where you will spend the night.
• Fried noodles
• Pasta and Macaroni
• Spaghetti
• Momos
• Pizza
• Dessert
• Pancakes
• Apple pie
• Chocolate pudding
• Rice pudding
• Dal Bhat (vegetarian, non-veg)
• Fried rice

Useful Info For Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Poon Hill Trek is a reasonably simple trek that can be completed by practically anyone, regardless of age. But when trekking anywhere, there are a few things to keep in mind. Similarly, the following are a few helpful treks for reaching Poon Hill Trek.

Start Early

It is always the best idea to start the trek early in any place including Poon hill. Trekking early lets you witness a stunning view of the entire landscape and mountains in the morning.

You will have more time to spend with nature if you start early. Nothing can beat the sunrise view at the peak of the majestic Himalayas that starts early.

Carry Extra Handcash

It is always a good idea to have extra cash on hand before going on a hike. In the top section of this region, credit cards are not accepted, therefore if you want to buy something, you must pay with cash in hand.

So you need a certain quantity of cash on hand to buy anything.

Carry a comfortable Backpack

Your journey can be memorable and relaxing if you have a suitable backpack.

Even while the hike up Ghorepani Poon Hill is not very strenuous compared to other high-altitude treks, it is always a good idea to be prepared.

Your trek will be a lot easier and more comfortable if you are using a comfy backpack.

Guide and Porters during the trek

You can trek from Ghorepani to Poonhill with or without a guide and/or porter.

Going with a guide and porter is highly advised. The hike traverses one of Nepal’s busiest routes. It is best to hike with guides because there are some areas where the routes are not well-maintained.

You can explore the trails at your leisure and pace by reducing your load with the aid of a porter.

You can learn about the local flora, fauna, landmarks, and peaks from a guide. She can also suggest the greatest places to eat, the finest routes to take, and the nicest tea houses to stay at.

A skilled and certified Nepali guide often costs between $30 and $40 (Nrs. 3000–4000) each day. A porter may cost $20 to $25 (about Rs. 2000 to 2500) per day to hire.

The option of hiring a porter guide is also available. They’ll help you out and lighten your weight while guiding you. They typically cost between $25 and $30 a day and are someone who is training to become a guide.

A porter guide will carry less than a porter and have less experience than a guide.

Additional Tips for your trek

• The local autumn season (September to November) and spring are the finest times to go on this hike (March-May).
• Regardless of the season, you travel in, make sure to take a pair of warm winter clothes as well as a pair of light summer clothes. The trek’s higher elevations have slightly less consistent weather.
• Do with your doctor before embarking on this hike.
• For navigating the notorious steps, a set of trekking poles is advised.
• The ideal approach to pay for all of your expenses is always with cash. The majority of the cafes, restaurants, and teahouses do not take credit cards. The reliability of the ATMs along the trails is questionable.
• After all, you are on vacation, so take it easy and enjoy the journey.

Conclusion

The cost of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek varies on a variety of variables. The price of this trek may be raised or lowered. Your selection of eateries, teahouses, trekking guides, and other services is the only factor that matters.

The Ghorepani Poonhill trek fits nearly every budget and is adaptable.

This quick and exciting trek offers stunning views, welcoming locals, a unique culture, and reasonably priced accommodations—everything a trek to Nepal should.