Overview of Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, a short and sweet trip spanning just four days yet overflowing with unforgettable experiences. This perfect itinerary beckons travelers of all ages, casting its spell, especially for families seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Embark on a captivating 4-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: Witness the mesmerizing sunrise from Poonhill's peak (3210m), offering unparalleled 360-degree mountain panoramas. Ideal for families and adventurers of all ages. Traverse through enchanting forests, adorned with blooming rhododendrons in spring, and delve into the rich Gurung culture at Ghandruk village.
Wander through the quaint villages of Gurung and Magar communities, where time seems to stand still amidst their rich tapestry of tradition and heritage. From Hile to Tikhedunga, Ulleri to Ghorepani, and finally to Ghandruk, each step unveils a new chapter of Nepalese life, painted with the hues of authenticity.
Nature herself takes center stage, adorning the path with lush forests where rhododendron flowers bloom in a vibrant display of colors during the spring months of March and April. Behold the spectacle of nature's palette, with hues ranging from fiery reds to delicate pinks and pristine whites, each petal a testament to the beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Yet, the true crescendo of this journey lies in the majestic vistas that await atop Poonhill. With awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped giants of the Annapurna range, including the towering Dhaulagiri, the majestic Manaslu, and the legendary Annapurna-I, every glance is a testament to the grandeur of Mother Nature. Among them, the peaks of Annapurna South and the iconic Fishtail stand as guardians of the horizon, while Annapurna II and Hiuchuli add their majestic presence to the panorama.
In every moment of this trek, from the cultural encounters to the breathtaking landscapes, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek weaves a tale of wonder and discovery, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who tread its path.
How Did They Give Poonhill Name?
The name "Poonhill" originates from the local Poon Magar ethnic group residing in the area. Combining "Poon" from their ethnicity and "Hill," the viewpoint became branded as Poonhill. Over the years, it has gained popularity among both internal and external tourists due to its breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna. Previously used as a route by locals and travellers, it evolved into a must-visit destination, offering trekking experiences, insights into Gurung and Magar cultures, and access to iconic trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani.
Which mountains are you seeing from Poon Hill?
Poonhill is standing itself at (3210 m) and you will see the awe-inspiring beauty of the 7th, 8th, and 10th highest peaks as Mt. Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna, alongside captivating vistas of Annapurna South and the majestic Fishtail. Enjoy the scenic wonders!
- Mt. Dhaulagiri - (8167m / 26795ft)
- Mt. Manaslu - (8163m / 26782ft)
- Annapurna-I - (8091m / 26546ft)
- Annapurna-II (7937m / 26065ft)
- Annapurna South - (7219m / 23685ft)
- Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) - (6993m / 22943 ft)
- Hiuchuli - (6441m / 21132ft)
- Mt Tukuche - (6920m / 22704ft))
- Mt. Nilgiri - ( 6860m / 22507ft)
Route of Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking
Before embarking on the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, you will initially arrive at Kathmandu Airport, enter through any border and stay at a hotel in Kathmandu. Kathmandu to Pokhara is 210 km, which is 7-8 hours by bus or 30 minutes by flight. The city of Pokhara, well known for its picturesque lake, offers a delightful opportunity for exploration and an overnight stay.
Following this, your 3-night, 4-days trek begins. You will traverse through numerous charming villages such as Birethanti, Hile Tikhedunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk, culminating either at Birethanti or diverging towards Landruk or Dhampus village. These villages, predominantly inhabited by Gurung and Magar people, offer an insight into their distinctive cultures. En route, you will cross several suspension bridges, follow trails along river banks, pass through lush forests, and witness terraced landscapes.
To ensure a smooth trip, we recommend planning for around a week, as your arrival and departure will be from Kathmandu. You'll need transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back, which will take approximately four days. The trek itself will span another four days. Therefore, allocating 7 to 8 days for your visit to Nepal would be ideal.The trip promises to be a profoundly memorable and enriching experience, leaving an indelible mark on your lifetime adventures.
When is the rhododendron blooming season on the Ghorepani Trek?
Rhododendron flowers are the national flower of Nepal. It blooms in the spring in March and April in the hilly region. It makes so many colours, such as red, pink, and white. The Ghorepani Poonhill routes have so much rhododendron-lush forestry, and you should walk along them. It gives such a charming, colourful look in the spring of March and April. It is called "a piece of paradise."
People and their Culture in Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
In Ghorepani Poon Hill, Gurung and Magar communities showcase unique cultures. Ghandruk village features a Gurung community museum. On terraces, raising cows, buffaloes, goats, sheep, and yaks, and warmly welcoming them with warm hospitality.
Lodging and Fooding in the Ghorepani Trek
Yes, there are well-managed lodges that provide neat, clean, hygienic meals and comfortable rooms with beds. They are very friendly and warm, with kind hospitality.
Transportation for Ghorepani Trekking
- We provide the below-mentioned transportation services; choose yourself.
- Kathmandu airport picks up and drops off private vehicles.
- Kathmandu to Pokhara and returning by comfortable Tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight
- Kathmandu to Pokhara tourist bus: 210 km; drive: 7–8 hours; return: same
- By private vehicle, such as a car, Jeep, or Toyota Hiace, 5–7 hours to return the same
- By flight, only 30 minutes, but cost
- Pokhara to Nayapul by private vehicle
- Ghandruk to Pokhara, returning by local jeep
Do We Need Any Entry Permits for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
Entry permits are necessary for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area. We can easily arrange them, but we require your passport-size photo and a copy of your passport before your arrival. Our guide will handle checkpoints throughout the trek and provide the permit to you as a souvenir at the end.
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Areas Project) - Nrs. 3000/-
- TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) - Nrs. 2000/-
- Poon Hill Entrance Permit, - Nrs. 250/-
When is the best time to visit Ghorepani Trek?
The best time to visit the Ghorepani Trek is in the autumn (September, October, November, and December) and in the spring (March, April, and May). During those months, the weather is always clear, with a good temperature, good visibility, and crystal-clear mountain views. The winter and monsoon seasons are also not bad. In winter, it is snowing and very freezing cold, and in monsoon, it is most of the time raining, cloudy, and not clear visibly. If you like to trek during the monsoon or winter, it is possible. We arrange it safely and successfully.
- Autumn Season: September, October, November, and December
- Winter Season: late December, January, and February
- Spring Season: March, April, and May
- Monsoon Season: June, July, and August.
Cost of Ghorepani Trek
Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking costs $299 per person. It is a Pokhara-to-Pokhara package service. If you need Kathmandu Pokhara hotels, transportation costs will be $390 per person. Please find out our best service cost details. If you are in a large group, the price will reduce a little bit. But if you are a single visitor, the cost will be a bit more. Feel free.
- If you need only a 3-night, 4-day trekking package, the cost is US$ 299 per person. There will be lodging, food, transportation, permits, and one guide. You need to pay for the Kathmandu Pokhara Hotel, food, and transportation yourself. It is only a Pokhara-to-Pokhara service.
- If you need a full board package for your arrival to departure, Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking at Kathmandu Pokhara Hotels, transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and return from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you will need permits, lodging, food, and one professional trekking guide. The cost is US$395 per person. It is a Kathmandu-to-Kathmandu arrival-departure service package.
Ghorepani Trek 4-Day Itinerary
It takes only 4 days to walk from Pokhara to Pokhara. If you need a full-board package for your arrival and departure from Kathmandu, we can customize your trip accordingly.
Day 01: Pokhara to Nayapul by Taxi or Jeep It takes an hour and 20 minutes to drive, then start your trekking from Nayapul. It is about 5–6 hours walking to Ulleri 1950m. You will cross many villages, traces, and suspension bridges while walking along beautiful, lush forestry and river banks.
Day 02: Trekking to Ghorepani (2847m) Walking almost (6/7 hrs.), it is wonderful walking almost a full day of lush Rhododendron forestry. You are crossing Banthanti village and taking lunch in Nange Thanti, then arriving at the beautiful camp of Ghorepani Hill. Stay at a nice lodge.
Day 03: Early in the morning, ascend to Poonhill (3210 m). It is an open hill with a 360-degree viewpoint. Watch many white snows as crystal-clear mountain views of Mt. Dhaulagir (8167 m), Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Fishtail (6993 m), and many more It is absolutely thrilling to see the white-snow mountains as well as the green scenery. Then, go back to the lodge, take your breakfast, pack your luggage, and then move on to another beautiful camp, Tadapani (2630 m). It is an adventurous journey, ascending and descending. It is wonderful to walk.
Day 4: Returning to Pokhara along with the popular Gurung community village of Ghandruk You will have a nice lunch in Gurung village at Ghandruk, then catch a local jeep to Pokhara. It is 3/4 hours walking, then 2 and a half hours driving. You will arrive late in the afternoon at Pokhara. Stay at the NCI Hotel in your selected hotel in Pokhara.
You can share your happiness with your guide and porters. You can have dinner together and give good tips to your guide porters. Share your happiness. Trekking ends in the beautiful city of Pokhara.
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