Package OverviewThe Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a classic short Himalayan adventure, offering spectacular mountain panoramas, cultural encounters, and lush forest trails. Starting with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, the trek ascends through rhododendron and oak forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and terraced farmland. The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), where you witness sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Along the way, trekkers explore culturally rich villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, Ghandruk, Landruk, and Dhampus, each offering a glimpse of local life, stone houses, and warm hospitality. The trek concludes with a relaxed descent to Phedi and a drive back to Pokhara, combining natural beauty, cultural immersion, and panoramic Himalayan vistas in just six days.
Trip ItineraryDrive time: 3 to 3.5 hours (approx. 55 km) | Trek time: 4–5 hours
Your adventure begins in Pokhara (827m), a tranquil lakeside city nestled beneath the towering Annapurna range. The morning drive winds through the verdant hills of Kaski District, passing through small villages like Naudanda and Lumle, before descending toward Nayapul (1,070m) and continuing along a rough jeep track to Ulleri (2,070m). The drive, though bumpy, offers ever-changing scenery of terraced rice fields, subtropical forest, and glimpses of distant snow peaks such as Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
From Ulleri, your trek begins with a moderate ascent through ancient stone stairways leading into dense rhododendron and oak forests. The trail passes through the small settlements of Banthanti (2,210m) and Nangethanti (2,460m), both ideal for rest and refreshment. Along the way, you’ll hear the sounds of mountain streams and encounter colorful birdlife such as the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird. In spring, the entire forest bursts into brilliant shades of red and pink rhododendron blossoms, making this section particularly enchanting.
The final stretch climbs gently through moss-covered woodland until you reach Ghorepani (2,860m) — a picturesque Magar village perched on a ridge. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna ranges, especially mesmerizing at sunset. The crisp mountain air, cozy teahouses, and lively atmosphere make Ghorepani an ideal resting point before your early morning ascent to Poon Hill the next day.
Hike time to Poon Hill: 45 min–1-hour ascent; 30 min descent | Trek time to Tadapani: 5–6 hours
You’ll start before dawn to climb up to Poon Hill (3,210m)—the highlight of this trek. Reaching the viewpoint just before sunrise, you’ll witness one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the Himalayas. As the sun rises, it bathes the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Nilgiri in golden light—an unforgettable sight.
After breakfast back in Ghorepani, the trail leads uphill through rhododendron forests to Deurali Pass (3,090m), offering another wide view of the mountains. The path then descends steeply through lush woodland, alive with birds and occasional monkey sightings, until reaching Banthanti and then Tadapani, a small village nestled in the forest. Tadapani provides close-up views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South, especially beautiful at sunset.
Trek time: 3–4 hours
The trail from Tadapani to Ghandruk descends through thick rhododendron and oak forests. The sounds of cascading streams and chirping birds accompany your walk. The forest opens occasionally to reveal dramatic views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, before you reach Ghandruk, one of the largest and most culturally rich Gurung villages in the region.
In Ghandruk, you can explore the Gurung Museum, showcasing traditional clothing, weapons, and artifacts, and enjoy the charming stone-paved lanes lined with traditional houses. The village also serves as a recruitment center for the Gurkha soldiers. The panoramic mountain backdrop makes this one of the most photogenic spots of the trek.
From Ghandruk, the trail descends steeply down to the Modi Khola (river) valley, crossing a suspension bridge over its clear turquoise waters. The climb up to Landruk is shorter but steady, through terraced fields and small settlements.
Landruk, situated directly opposite Ghandruk across the valley, is another traditional Gurung village known for its warm hospitality and beautiful mountain views. Here you can enjoy a peaceful evening, observing village life or relaxing on a teahouse terrace with views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Trek time: 5–6 hours
The trail from Landruk gently ascends through forests and farmland, passing through Tolkar and Deurali Pass (2,100m), which offers another sweeping Himalayan vista. From there, it descends gradually through rhododendron and oak forests to reach Dhampus, a picturesque village famous for its vantage point over the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks.
Dhampus is often celebrated for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views. The village itself is a serene settlement of Gurung houses surrounded by terraced fields and offers an ideal place to experience local hospitality and rural Nepalese life.
Trek time: 2–3 hours | Drive time: 45 minutes–1 hour
The final day’s trek is mostly downhill, descending stone steps through terraced farmland and small villages. The walk to Phedi is relaxed and offers one last opportunity to enjoy the tranquil rural scenery. Upon reaching Phedi, you’ll meet your vehicle for the short drive back to Pokhara.
Back in Pokhara, you can unwind by Phewa Lake, visit the Peace Pagoda, or enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside cafés—reflecting on a rewarding Himalayan journey that combined scenic beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable mountain vistas.
Trekking Gears And Equipments
Sweet Memories
