Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Want to experience the Himalayas but are short on time or want to gather trekking experience while traveling to Nepal? Then this Ghorepani Poon hill trek is for you. Ghorepani Poon hill, located at an altitude of 3210m from sea level, is in the Annapurna conservation area. The hill's name, Ghore, stands for (horse in the Nepali language) and Pani stands for (water in Nepali). Ghorepani Poonhill trek is well known and one of the most admired treks. This trekking region is situated Northeast of Pokhara city. It is one of the most popular hiking paths in the lovely Annapurna conservation area. It provides fantastic views over the green hills, sunrise views of the Annapurna Himalayan range, and panoramic vistas of the majestic  Himalayas.

Ghorepani Poon hill trek is a small circuit trail in the lower part of the Annapurna region suitable for anyone with no exceptional trekking experience and limited time. The trek provides the most unique and eye-catching panoramic mountain vistas throughout your trekking program. If you are here in Nepal to travel and want a trekking experience in a limited time, then this trek is for you, as this trek is worth both your precious time and money. The main motive of any trek is to see the gorgeous mountain peaks during your trek, and you will get a stunning view of mountains above 8000m and other equally majestic sky-piercing peaks. Annapurna the savage mountains standing at an elevation of 8091m, Dhaulagiri 8127m, Annapurna south 7219, Machhapuchhre 6993m, Himchuli, Annapurna III, Dhampus peak, Dhaulagiri II and other overhead peaks.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a 7-8 day trek in the Annapurna mountain range in Nepal. Gurungs and  Magars are an ethnic community of this area, meaning you are exposed to its beautiful cultures and traditions. It is the best destination for hiking and trekking near Pokhara valley. You can observe and participate in different traditional activities of Gurung and Magars. Ghandruk village, known as Gurung village, is another major attraction in the Ghorepani Poonhill trek. You can enjoy the dense Rhododendron forest,  deep valleys, and birds on trekking to this hill. Poon hill is the ultimate view of this trek from where you can see the endless mountain chains. En route, you will be accompanied by the lofty mountains, crisp fresh air and fellow treks who share the same passion and interest in seeing the mountains.

As its given name is Ghorepani, meaning the watering place for horses, you will come across domesticated animals such as Horses, mules, and donkeys along with other animals out in the wild. This trek is different from other treks as the monotonous walk is broken by the soothing sound of gorgeous waterfalls, Annapurna Panorama, terraced rice fields, and local culture with a simple lifestyle. This trek is a perfect break from your daily tedious work schedule and concrete jungle. A refreshment that you need once in a while. 

Major attractions of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of the best treks which can cover in just eight days which gives you an excellent opportunity to experience trekking and the local culture of different places while you get closer to nature. From the buzzy city with its chaotic beauty to the peaceful villages where you get to see and know what village life truly means are the things you will experience, learn and see. From the start to the finish of your vacation here in Nepal, it will surprise you and even overwhelm you with beauty. The glittering city lights that never go off to the wood fire that warms both your cold hand and confused heart in the teahouses are the things you will enjoy throughout your time in this heavenly country. 

Kathmandu- City of peace with a hint of chaos

Kathmandu is the hot pot of fascinating culture, incredible architecture, numerous ethnicities, breathtaking festivals and other thrilling aspects. As you get ready to land at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will see the congested city surrounded by lush green hills under the thin blanket of clouds and smog. Kathmandu, formally known as Kantipur, is the central hub of revered temples and century-old trade routes with  modern and royal ancient architecture. The beauty of this city lies within the old narrow alley of Kathmandu that leads you to the old markets where small shops are decorated with colorful merchandise. People from various cultural backgrounds live together, sharing their traditions and beauty. As a result, you are exposed to diversity.

This country's history and culture are engraved on walls and monuments in the form of sculptures and unique architecture. Kathmandu is also called the city of temples as several prominent Buddhist monasteries and the most revered Hindu temples are listed in UNESCO World heritage sites. During your sightseeing, you will visit these landmarks inside Kathmandu valley. The streets of Kathmandu are always aromatised with incense, mouth-watering foods, and spices with a hint of smoke and hope. For those who want to experience raw beauty with no filter, this is the nirvana for adventure junkies. Besides century-old landmarks and crowded streets, this city boasts its only living Goddess - Kumari, which dwells inside Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Pokhara - the City of Adventure!

The gateways to excellent treks and adrenaline-rushing adventures. Pokhara is the second largest city at an elevation of 822 and, surprisingly, the place from where you can see the mountains above 8000m, Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna (8091m), Manasalu (8163m) and the most unique one Mt. Fishtail (6993m). Pokhara is truly the gateway to the most amazing places, be it the base camp of majestic mountains to traditional celestial villages. It is a popular vacation destination among tourists and locals and is crowded with people throughout the year. Pokhara is a unique place where raw nature meets modern technology. You can stay at luxury landmarks while enjoying the breathtaking mountains without moving a muscle. And if one is into adventure activities, then this is the place.

People enjoy adrenaline-rushing activities such as ultra-light flights and paragliding, which offer a bird’s eye view of the entire city and the glorious mountains. As mentioned above, Pokhara is a gateway to marvelous  short treks and short hikes not far from Pokhara. Besides that, it is a great place to relax and chill as there are numerous cafes and pubs where you can enjoy live music and great food. The glittering city welcomes visitors with a beautiful view of the mountain peaks and warm air. Pokhara is full of natural attractions, from spectacular waterfalls to impressive viewpoints that provide one-of-a-kind sunrise and sunset views.

Celestial village in Annapurna Conservation area - Ghandruk

Pokhara is packed with traditional villages where you can see and experience authentic village life. Located at an altitude of 2012m/6601ft a stunning place and stop point for many treks. Ghandruk village is one of Nepal's largest villages, a traditional Gurung village. It is located in the Annapurna conservation area meaning you are  graced with mountains, peace and heavenly sunrise and sunset view. Ghandruk village is unique and easily distinguished by its stoned paved roofs over the houses. Ghandruk is one of the most commercialized villages as it is one of the most visited places in Pokhara. Ghandruk is best known for its hospitality from the locals and overall the village.

Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Fishtail, and Hiunchuli are the peaks seen from the place view. One can visit the museum and get to know about the tools and cultural attire as well. Buildings beautifully decorated with flower pots and traditional objects will catch your eye. The unspoiled nature, a new concept of hospitality, delicious Gurung cuisine and a simple lifestyle are the things to experience. The village is surrounded by dense forest, which allows you to see wildlife in its natural habitat. The forest contains flowering, primarily plants in the spring season. Its view is breathtaking. It is away from the concrete jungle and close to nature, making your stay in this village therapeutic.

The Ultimate viewpoint- Poon Hill

Poon hill is the ultimate destination of the Ghorepani Poon hill trek, situated at an elevation of 3210m/10531ft, giving you a fantastic view. Many people are confused and think that Ghorepani and Poon's hill are different treks. Still, Poonhill is just a viewpoint of the entire trek, and Ghorepani is just a stop on the way to Poon Hill.

Walking through a dense rhododendron forest will enchant your heart and please your eyes.

Once at the viewport, you are left with the most striking view of the endless mountain chain. Some of the snow peaks seen from here are Annapurna (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8127m), Annapurna south (7291m), Machhapuchhre, Hinchuli, Annapurna III, Dhampus peak, along with other lofty peaks. 

Poon Hill is among Nepal’s most stunning viewpoints. Most trekkers like to go to Poon hill to see the mesmerizing early sunrise above the towering mountains. The gradual change of the mountain's colours from gray to pink/orange will surely leave you with your jaws dropped.  Seeing the mountains above 8000m in front of your eyes is a dream come true for many people. It takes about an hour to reach Poon hill from Ghorepani.

The Best time to trek in Ghorepani/Poon Hill

Poon Hill's lower altitude means that the temperature and the weather will be mild. When you reach a high height, you must always be watchful of the differences in temperature between day and night, but this is not the case for the Poon Hill Tour. Furthermore, the tiny increase in altitude means no significant temperature differences between different locations along the path. Moreover, the temperatures in summer and winter are not wild.

Spring Season

Spring is one of Nepal's most lovely months and lasts between March and May. Mild temperatures, low rainfall, lush vegetation, clear skies, fantastic trekking experience – all you want while hiking. In Poon Hill, the temperature in March is the lowest, and in May, it is the lowest.

Summer Season

The summer is from June to August at Poon Hill. The summer is sweltering during your walk-in Poon Hill, allowing you to hike in t-shirts and shorts. However, you must also maintain that you are prepared in this season for any rain chances this season. Summer is the monsoon season in Nepal.

Autumn Season

Autumn, next to Spring, is the best month for trekking. Nepal's trekking paths are packed with national and foreign hikers. From September to November, autumn falls. After summer, Poon Hill trek rainfall lowers considerably and reaches its most minor level in November.

Winter Season

From December to February, winter in Nepal falls and, therefore, in Poon Hill. The water freezing point is below the temperature in some locations on the hiking path to Poon Hill. However, these temperatures in the Base Camp areas are nowhere as cold.

The cloud opportunities over the hills in winter are also limited. Therefore, if you can be somewhat cold, you may get some of the most magnificent views of the Annapurna region by the hills.

Trek Permits

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Trekkers Information Management systems (TIMS)

Guides and Porters

Guides and porters are very important while you are going trekking. Guides lead trekking paths and control times, and registration permits everything. Porter carries your luggage and makes your trek easier, reducing the weight. You can control the speed of your walk more rapidly. Guides include people who are comfortable with walking paths, local culture, and languages. Throughout the trek, they will guide you and provide you with all the necessary information. The best places to eat and remain are offered. Renting a porter makes travelling more manageable and more enjoyable.

Accommodations during the trek

The farther the region, the easier it is to stay on walks (sometimes simply with a tent).  Fortunately, in most tea houses, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek contains beautiful, most importantly, comfortable rooms. Most rooms have double beds, and some have bathrooms attached. But expect standard toilets in particular.

Food: Don't create yourself hard and take with you all your food. You are paying more than three times the cost for a room if you bring your food to the lodges. In Urban cities like Pokhara, you will be served a variety of food options. However, in the higher elevations during the trip, you will taste local cuisine which is Thakali, mainly food and for breakfast. Some available foods are eggs, fresh seasonal veggies, salads, seasonal fruits, pancakes, Dalbhat, soups, and meat (depending on availability). There are plenty of vegetarian choices on the menu, and you will be amazed by the variety. Bottled water can be purchased for 120 NPR, but most lodges will purify their water, and around 80 NPR will be a liter.