Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 9 Days
Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek starts and ends in Pokhara, making it one of the most accessible and rewarding treks in the Annapurna region. The trail winds through dense forests, river valleys, and terraced hillsides, offering spectacular Himalayan views at every turn. In spring, the route comes alive with blooming rhododendrons, while winter brings a peaceful snowy landscape. The trek usually takes 4–6 days to complete and is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for families, solo travelers, and first-time trekkers. With its combination of panoramic sunrise views, cultural encounters in villages like Ghandruk, and short duration, the Poon Hill Trek is often recommended as the best introductory trek in Nepal. Whether you’re seeking a quick adventure or a memorable cultural experience, this trek delivers an unforgettable Himalayan journey.
Description
The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most famous short treks in Nepal, offering a perfect blend of Himalayan scenery, cultural exploration, and easy accessibility. Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers, this journey takes you through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and picturesque terraced farmlands. Along the way, you’ll enjoy comfortable teahouse stays, warm hospitality, and stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise from Poon Hill, where golden rays cast a magical glow over snow-capped peaks like Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri. If you’re looking for the best short trek in Nepal that combines breathtaking views with cultural charm, the Poon Hill Trek is the ideal choice.
Itinerary
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Cost
The Cost Includes
Accommodation
- 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast.
- 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast.
- 4 nights in comfortable teahouses/guesthouses during the trek on a twin-sharing or dormitory basis.
Meals & Drinking Water
- Daily 3 meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with seasonal fruits.
- A farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trip.
- Safe drinking water during the trek, purified by water filters or tablets.
Transportation
- All airport transfers in Kathmandu and Pokhara by private/tourist vehicle.
- Tourist bus transfer Kathmandu ↔ Pokhara.
- Private vehicle transfers Pokhara → Birethanti and Syauli Bazaar → Pokhara.
Guide & Staff
- Professional, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (first aid trained).
- Additional assistant guides for groups over 7 people.
- Porters for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
- Staff wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medical support included.
Permits & Entry Fees
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
Special Benefits
- Complimentary trekking kit bag, sun hat, neck gaiter (Buff), and trekking map.
- Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter (to check oxygen levels at altitude).
- Official trip completion certificate.
Administrative & Taxes
- All applicable government taxes and administrative expenses.
The Cost Excludes
- Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except farewell dinner).
- International flights and airport departure taxes.
- Nepal entry visa (available on arrival: USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days).
- Travel insurance with high-altitude and emergency evacuation coverage.
- Bottled or boiled beverages/water during trek.
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers.
- Personal trekking gear, clothing, and equipment.
- Any costs not mentioned in the “Includes” section.
Required Equipments
Preparing the right gear is essential for a comfortable and safe trekking experience in the Annapurna region. Below is a recommended Poon Hill trek packing list to guide you. Keep in mind that clothing layers are especially important, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on the season.
👉 Note: Accomplish Holidays provides a 75L duffel bag for your trek. Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu for USD 25 each.
General Gear
- Puffy down jacket (rental available)
- Daypack (35–45 liters) with rain cover
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap (complimentary Accomplish Holidays cap provided)
- Warm knitted hat/beanie
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Torso
- Technical fabric base layers (lightweight for summer, heavy for winter)
- 2 short-sleeve trekking shirts
- 2 long-sleeve trekking shirts
- Waterproof, windproof shell jacket
- Fleece jacket or pullover
Lower Body
- Technical fabric base layers (light or heavy depending on season)
- 2 pairs of hiking pants
- Comfortable pants for teahouse evenings
- Waterproof/windproof shell pants
- Hiking shorts (for warmer months)
Hands
- Lightweight wool/technical liner gloves
- Insulated, waterproof outer gloves (for winter months)
Feet
- Wool or warm trekking socks
- Hiking socks
- Optional liner socks (e.g., silk)
- Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Casual shoes for teahouses
- Ice cleats / microspikes (recommended from November–March)
Undergarments
- Quick-drying, breathable underwear
- Sports bras (for women)
- Pajamas or comfortable sleeping clothes
First Aid & Medications
(Guides carry a first aid kit, but personal supplies are highly recommended)
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Lip balm with SPF
- Ointments/medications for blisters or minor injuries
- Personal prescriptions
Other Essentials
- Valid passport + extra passport photos
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets/UV purifier
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
- Lightweight towel
- Pillowcase
- Toilet paper (2 rolls recommended)
- High-protein snacks (nuts, energy bars, etc.)
- Waterproof/dry bags for valuables
- Airline tickets (+ leave a copy with Accomplish Holidays office in Kathmandu)
- Earplugs (for teahouse stays)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Optional Items
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Camera or smartphone for photography
- Book/cards for leisure time
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (for women)
- Whistle for safety
- Thermos for hot water
- Comb or personal grooming items
✅ Pro Tip:
Many trekking essentials are available in Thamel, Kathmandu at reasonable prices. If you don’t want to carry everything from home, you can buy or rent quality gear upon arrival.