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Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek
Country
Nepal
Difficulty
Easy
Best Season
Sep-Nov/March-May
Accommodation
Lodges
Region
Annapurna Trekking
Start / End Point
Nayapul - Nayapul
Max. Altitude
3,210m
Group Size
1
Meals Included
BLD
Acclimatization
Not Included
Permits
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
Recommended For
Yes
Duration
7 Days
Activity
Nepal Trekking
Distance
What is Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek All About?
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek, If you take a quick search across the internet about the shortest and easiest treks in Nepal, the name Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek (also known as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek) pops up on your screen. This trek is widely popular among the trekking communities for its shorter duration, beginner-friendly nature, and the stunning sunrise view it provides. It is located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The major highlight of this trek is the early hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to witness the sunrise over the view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
Along the way, you will get to explore the traditional Ghandruk Village along with Tadapani, Ulleri, and others. These villages are renowned for their warm hospitality, catering to trekkers. While enjoying the mountain views, you will also be exposed to the culture of the Gurung people. The other highlight of this trek is the rhododendron forest, which blooms with vibrance during the spring season. If you are seeking the trek to begin trekking, Ghandruk Trek Poon Hill can be it. So, let’s delve deeper into this trekking guide to learn more about the trek.
The Best of the Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek Experience
- Trek through lush rhododendron forests filled with vibrant flowers. As the trails leading to Ghorepani pass through a vast rhododendron jungle, they are also known as the Rhododendron Trek.
- Hike to Poon Hill in the early morning to see the stunning sunrise over tall and majestic snow-covered mountains.
- Witness the majestic mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal.
- Visit the traditional Ghandruk Village, a Gurung village. Learn about local culture, and immerse yourself in their lifestyle.
- Trek with your family and friends as Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek is one of the easiest treks in Nepal.
- Walk along terraced farmlands and quiet mountain paths with the sounds of birds and a gushing stream.
- Take mesmerizing photos of the Himalayas, landscape, flora, and fauna along the trail.
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek Outline Itinerary
| Day | Activity | Ending Elevation (m) | Trekking Hours | Trekking Distance (km)(approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu, drive to the tourist area Thamel | 1,350 | – | – |
| 2 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara | 850 | – | – |
| 3 | Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, trek from Nayapul to Ghandruk | 1,940 | 5-6 | 11 |
| 4 | Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani via Bhaise Kharka | 2,630 | 4-5 | 8 |
| 5 | Trek from Tadapani to Ghorepani via Banthanti | 2,874 | 5–6 | 8 |
| 6 | Hike to Poon Hill, trek from Ghorepani to Ulleri, drive to Pokhara | 850 | 5-6 | 12 |
| 7 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu | 1,350 | – | – |
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek Outline Itinerary
| Route | End Elevation | Elevation Gain/Loss | Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel | ||||
| Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by deluxe tourist bus | 850 m | |||
| Day 03: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then trek to Ghandruk | +870 m (approx.) | 5-6 hours | ~11 km | |
| Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk (1,950 m) to Tadapani (2,630 m) via Bhaise Kharka | Minimal Loss | 4-5 hours | ~8 km | |
| Day 05: Trek from Tadapani (2,630 m) to Ghorepani (2,850 m) via Banthanti | +690 m (approx.) | 5–6 hours | ~8 km | |
| Day 06: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for sunrise view, then trek to Ulleri, and drive to Pokhara (850 m) | +244 m (approx.) | 5-6 hours (approx.) | ~12 km | |
| Day 07: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus | +336 m (to Poon Hill at 3,210 m) (approx.) | |||
| -2,360 m (from Poon Hill to Pokhara) (approx.) | ||||
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Drive Distance
1,350 m
Meals
B+L+D
Accommodation
Lodges
The staff from Himalaya Guide Nepal or your trekking guide will pick you up from the Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to the hotel that you have booked. Upon reaching your hotel, you will rest for a while or explore the Thamel market if you have any shopping left to do. The guide will then join you to brief you about the trek. If you have any queries, you can ask your guide directly.
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by deluxe tourist bus
Drive Distance
~200 km
Drive Duration
7-8 hours
Highest Altitude
850 m
Meals
B+L+D
Accommodation
Lodges
Early in the morning, you will have breakfast and head to the bus park to travel to Pokhara. The drive takes about 7 to 8 hours. Once you arrive at Pokhara, you can relax at the Lakeside of Phewa Lake. You can also explore the nightlife of Pokhara city.
The two other options to get to Pokhara are by flight and by booking a private jeep. If you prefer to shorten the itinerary, you can take a flight and get to Nayapul at the same time. Additionally, if you are trekking in a group and wish to hire a private jeep, this can be arranged at an extra cost. In both cases, please let us know so that we can arrange it accordingly.
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then trek to Ghandruk
Trek Distance
~11 km
Trek Duration
5-6 hours
Drive Distance
~40 km
Drive Duration
1.5 hours
Highest Altitude
+870 m (approx.)
Place
Ghandruk
Meals
B+L+D
Accommodation
Annapurna Guest House / Breeze Guest Houes
Today is the day your trek begins. You will start the trek after breakfast at the lodge where you stayed the previous night. Today’s destination is Ghandruk, a famous Gurung village in the Annapurna Region. Along the way, you will follow the river that flows from the Annapurna Base Camp. The trail is steep and crosses the green fields and villages. After a gentle walk, you will reach Syauli Bazaar. From there, you will begin a steady uphill trek to get to Ghandruk, which offers the beautiful views of the Machhapuchhre Himal (the fishtail mountain) and the Annapurna Range. You can experience the warm hospitality and also peek into their culture.
Trek from Ghandruk (1,950 m) to Tadapani (2,630 m) via Bhaise Kharka
Trek Distance
~8 km
Trek Duration
4-5 hours
Highest Altitude
Minimal Loss
Place
Tadapani
Meals
B+L+D
Accommodation
Grand View Hotel/Magnificent Hotel
Unlike another day, you don’t have to start the trek early in the morning. You can explore Ghandruk and click pictures. On a clear day, the Machhapuchhre on the backdrop looks mesmerizingly beautiful. You can also wear the Gurung dresses if you wish. After some time, you can have your lunch and leave for the Tadapani, which is only about 3 to 4 hours of hiking from Ghandruk. Along the way, you will constantly hear the sound of birds and the waterfall. You will also cross the buffalo pasture on the trail. Upon reaching Tadapani, you can rest for the day while observing the mountains like Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Annapurna III (7,555 meters), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters), and Lamjung Himal (6,931 meters).
Trek from Tadapani (2,630 m) to Ghorepani (2,850 m) via Banthanti
Trek Distance
~8 km
Trek Duration
5–6 hours
Highest Altitude
+690 m (approx.)
Place
Ghorepani
Meals
B+L+D
Accommodation
Super View/Mountain View
After having your breakfast at Tadapani, you will head toward Ghorepani, your stop for the day. The trail today is marked by the deep rhododendron forest, which turns vibrant in the spring season. It will be as if you are trekking through the path laid by the flowers. After walking about an hour and a half from Tadapani, you will reach Banthanti. If you had started your trek without breakfast, you can do so here. Along the way, you will cross places like Thulo Oddar and Liui Kharka. It takes approximately 5 to 6 hours to reach Ghorepani.
Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for sunrise view, then trek to Ulleri, and drive to Pokhara (850 m)
Trek Distance
~12 km
Trek Duration
5-6 hours (approx.)
Drive Distance
60 km (approx.)
Drive Duration
3 hours (approx.)
Highest Altitude
+244 m (approx.)
Place
Pokhara
Meals
B+L+D
Accommodation
Guest Own
You will wake early in the morning, before sunrise. You will then hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) for sunrise views. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Ghorepani to get to Poon Hill. From this vantage point, you will see the sunrise over the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, and the famous Fishtail (Machhapuchhre).
You will then hike back to Ghorepani, have breakfast, and prepare for the descent back to Ulleri, from where you will catch a bus to Pokhara. You will pass through Nangge Thanti. The trail is easy, as you will be mostly descending. In the spring, the trail is covered with rhododendrons. After arriving at Ulleri, you will catch a vehicle to get back to Pokhara.
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus
Highest Altitude
+336 m (to Poon Hill at 3,210 m) (approx.)
Meals
B
Early in the morning, you will have a hot breakfast at your hotel. Then get to the bus park to catch a tourist bus to Kathmandu. If you wish to stay at the Lakeside to explore the city, please notify us in advance. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be taken to your hotel of choice.
Inclusion/Exclusion in Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drops services.
- One night’s accommodation in Kathmandu on a B&B plan.
- Two-night standard hotel in Pokhara (Before and after the trek)
- Kathmandu to Pokhara by deluxe tourist bus.
- The bus station to the hotel by car.
- Pokahra to Kimche by public jeep.
- Ulleri to Pokhara by public jeep.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner along the trek).
- Accommodation along the trek.
- License holder guide (Including his salary, transportation, insurance, equipment, food, and lodging included).
- Equipment: Down Jacket, Sleeping Bag.
- All required legal documents (TIMS, Permit, etc.)
- All Gov taxes.
- Ghandruk Poon Hill Trekking map.
- First aid medical box.
- Fresh and dry fruits along the trek.
- A token of love from the company.
- Farewell lunch or dinner.
Cost Excludes
- Extra nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Travel insurance.
- Cold drinks: coke, mineral water, beer, Fanta, etc.
- Personal Expenses (shower, boiled water, telephone, wifi, laundry service, etc).
- Tips for guide.
Route Map
Departure
No departure dates available.
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Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek Trip Information
Packing List for Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek
Since Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek is a short Trek, the gear and equipment needed differ from many other Himalayan Trek. Due to its shorter duration, you won’t need to buy multiple pairs of the same items. You can cut down the quantity. Moreover, this trail in this trek is well-managed, with established hotels and lodges along the way, and the temperature doesn’t drop to freezing, so carrying a sleeping bag is also optional. That said, here is the general packing list for the Ghandruk Pooon Hill Trek:
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Clothing | 1x base layer, 1x warm layer (fleece/down), 1x waterproof jacket, 2x trekking pants, 2x t-shirts (quick-dry), underwear, socks, gloves, hat, buff/scarf |
| Footwear | Trekking boots, lightweight sandals (for the lodge) |
| Accessories | Sunglasses, sunhat, trekking poles (optional), daypack |
| Sleeping | Sleeping bag (optional) |
| Toiletries | Toothbrush/paste, soap, small towel, wet wipes, toilet paper |
| First Aid | Band-aids, painkillers, antiseptic cream |
| Electronics | Phone, power bank, charger (maybe solar), headlamp |
| Documents/Money | Passport copy, permits (ACAP/TIMS), cash (lodges don’t take cards) |
| Other | Snacks, water bottle |
Permit for Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek
Even though the ghandruk poon hill trek is the shortest, you still have to get the permits to trek. The two permits you need to obtain are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). These permits allow you to trek legally inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. There are checking posts, where you have to submit the permit. Failing to do so can lead to legal issues and a fine. That said, here is the table for the price of the permits and where to obtain them:
| Permit | Cost (Foreigners) | Cost (SAARC Nationals) | Where to Obtain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 (~USD 22) | NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) | Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu) or Park Entry Checkpoints |
| TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) | NPR 2,000 Per person (~USD 15) | NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) | Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu) or Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) office |
Note: Nepalese have to pay NPR 100 for the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. Children under 10 years old don’t require a fee to trek inside the conservation area. Additionally, the permit price is included in the package. So, Himalaya Guide Nepal will obtain all the necessary permits on your behalf.Â
What is so special about Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek?
The Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short trek in Nepal. It means that it is ideal for beginners and there are fewer challenges. Is that it? Is that the only special part about the Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek? NO! Here are five other reasons why this trek is special and why you should opt for it:
Family-Friendly Trekking Experience
If there are any family-friendly treks in Nepal, it has to be the Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek. It is excellent for families looking to explore trekking together. The trails are manageable and well-maintained. The lodges along the way are comfortable. And, the risk of altitude sickness is minimal. So, the entire Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek caters to the family of all age group. The trek also includes visiting or staying at multiple traditional villages where children can learn about local life. Early exposure to different cultures can enhance their understanding of the world, and the early trekking experience can shape their life towards a healthy lifestyle.
Easy Accessibility and Shorter Duration
Unlike many other treks, you don’t have to go through a travel hassle to start the Ghandruk Trek. Nayapul, the starting point of the trek, is about 42 km from Pokhara and is easily accessible by road. You can take either a private jeep or a public bus to get to Nayapul. Besides, it is one of the shortest treks in Nepal. You can easily complete this trek in about 4 to 6 days, depending on where you start. Therefore, it is ideal for those who want to trek but are unsure about altitude sickness or have limited time.
Blooming Rhododendrons
Talking about Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek and not addressing the rhododendron forests would be a sin. The trails near Ghorepani are surrounded by the vast Rhododendron forest, which is also considered one of the biggest rhododendron forests in Nepal. These rhododendron blooms come in a variety of colors, ranging from red to purple. Trekking on this trail provides a vibrant experience like no other. However, there is a catch. If you want to witness the blooming rhododendrons, you have to trek in the peak spring season, especially mid-March to mid-April, as it is the best time to see the flowers.Â
Stunning Sunrise Views of the Himalayas
Being a short trek and an easy trek doesn’t mean that the trekking experience is compromised. While it isn’t exactly the Himalayan Trekking experience, the Himalayas will never leave your sight. Right from Pokhara, you will be welcomed by Machhapuchhre (the fishtail mountain). As you trek along the trail, the other mountains to be seen are from the Annapurna Range. Upon reaching Poon Hill, at the early morning, before the sunrise, you will witness the early sun rays glistening over the snow capped mountains like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal.
Doable Trek in All Seasons
When we are talking about the best time to do Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek, the line gets blurred. It is doable throughout the year in all four seasons. While spring and autumn are the best seasons, summer and winter are not particularly harsh seasons for this trek either. The temperature at Ghorepani, the highest elevation where you will stay, will not fall below freezing in winter. During the monsoon, the forests are lush and teeming with life. However, you might need sturdy boots and rain gear. So, If you aren’t able to visit Poon Hill during the peak season, you needn’t to worry, you can do it at any time in the year.
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trail
The Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek starts from the Nayapul of Lumle. It then ascends towards Birethanti, Syauli Bazaar, and finally to Ghandruk, where you will stay for the night. Initially, the trail follows a dirt road, which soon turns into a stepping-stone trail. The trail from Ghandruk to Tadapani is also a gradual ascent with few flat sections. The trail passes through dense forest and reaches Deurali Pass. From there, it continues gently to Ghorepani. The trail from Ghorepani to Ulleri goes downhill with many stone steps. After Ulleri, the path becomes easier. It passes through villages and farmland on the way to Nayapul.
That said, here is the trail you will take to reach the Poon Hill and get back to Nayapul:
Nayapul → Birethanti → Syauli Bazaar → Kimche → Ghandruk → Bhaise Kharka → Tadapani → Banthanti → Deurali → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Ghorepani → Ulleri → Hille → Tikhedhunga → Nayapul
Should I worry about altitude sickness on Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek?Â
Yes and No.Â
Yes because altitude sickness can technically affect anyone above 2,500 meters and Poon Hill is located at an elevation of 3,210 meters. So, while it’s rare on this trek, it’s not impossible, especially if you are not physically fit and have a sedentary lifestyle. Throughout the trek, the trails are manageable. However, the trail also features a steep step ascent, which can be challenging and impact your pace. Therefore, maintaining good physical fitness is beneficial. And, if you are dehydrated, the risk of altitude sickness can increase.
No because the Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek stays below 3,210 meters, which is generally considered a safe altitude, even though altitude effects can technically begin around 2,500 meters. The ascent is gradual, and overnight stays at the places will allow you to acclimatize on your own. While some trekkers may experience shortness of breath or fatigue, they don’t necessarily have to be suffering from altitude sickness. Serious altitude sickness is very rare on this route. That said, we recommend staying hydrated and maintaining a gradual pace.
Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek Cost
The Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek starts at USD 62 for one person (look below for what is included and what is not included). However, the price for the trek is flexible in the sense that there are discounts available for those trekking in a group, making it more budget-friendly. For example, if you are a group of 10 people, a single person only has to pay USD 335, saving you a whopping amount of USD 210 that you would have spent if you were trekking solo. So, here is the table for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek for different group of people:Â
| No. of Pax | Price per Person (USD) |
| 1 pax | $620 |
| 2 pax | $485 |
| 3 pax | $455 |
| 4 pax | $435 |
| 5 pax | $423 |
| 6 pax | $415 |
| 7 pax | $410 |
| 8 pax | $405 |
| 9 pax | $400 |
| 10 pax | $395 |
Can I do Poon Hill Trek in Fewer Days?
Yes, you can do Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek in just 3 or 4 days. To complete it in fewer days, you will need to keep a steady pace and limit the time spent in villages. If you didn’t reroute to the Ghandruk and just did the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, you can do so in 3 days. In this case, you will trek from Nayapul and reach Ghorepani on the second day. On the third day, you can reach Poon Hill, watch sunrise, trek back to Nayapul, and take a bus to Pokhara. However, if you include Ghandruk, it adds one or two extra days. So, Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is possible in four days.
However, trekking in fewer days means walking for longer hours and longer distances. This can increase the possibility of suffering from injuries and the risk of altitude sickness, despite minimal increases. You might also miss the opportunity to enjoy the local life and nature, which are the soul of trekking in Nepal. If you plan to complete this trek in shorter days, you need to plan accordingly. We are here to assist you regardless of the trek duration.
Comparing Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek to Mardi Himal Trek and Langtang Trek
There are multiple short treks to do in Nepal. However, a short trek doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easy, too. Besides, Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek the two other short treks are Mardi Himal Trek and Langtang Valley Trek. All these treks can be completed within a week. So, what exactly makes Poon Hill Trek different from them? Here is the brief comparison:
| Feature | Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek | Mardi Himal Trek | Langtang Valley Trek |
|---|---|---|---|
| Region | Annapurna | Annapurna | Langtang |
| Duration | 4–6 days | 5–7 days | 7–10 days |
| Max Elevation | 3,210 m (Poon Hill) | 4,500 m (Viewpoint/Base Camp) | ~3,870 m (Kyanjin Gompa, optional are Kyanjin Ri at 4,773 m and Tsergo Ri at 5,033 m) |
| Trek Difficulty | Easy | Moderate | Moderate |
| Main Attractions | Sunrise from Poon Hill, Gurung villages | Machapuchare views, quiet trails | Langtang Valley, Tamang culture, glaciers |
| Crowd Level | Moderate to High | Low to Moderate | Moderate |
| Starting Point | Nayapul / Kimche / Ghandruk | Kande / Dhampus | Syabrubesi |
| Cultural Experience | Gurung culture | Gurung culture | Tamang and Tibetan Buddhist culture |
| View Highlights Risk | Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare | Machapuchare, Annapurna range | Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, glaciers |
| Cost (USD) |
As you can see,Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek, among the three, is the easiest trek to do. The maximum elevation reached is also 3,210 meters, which doesn’t pose the risk of altitude sickness as the other two do. It allows you to explore the Annapurna Region and takes you to the vantage point offering the mountain views. While it may not be a Himalayan high-altitude trek or a circuit trek, it still offers the beauty of rhododendrons and mountains. So, if you are a family, a friend, or a solo trekker seeking to start the trekking journey, then Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek is the best one.
As the saying goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” your trekking journey can begin with Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.Â
Frequently Asked Questions For Poon Hill Ghandruk Trek
Can I do Ghandruk Poon Hill trek by by reaching Poon Hill before Ghandruk?Â
Is it possible to combine Poon Hill and Khopra Danda in the same itinerary?
Is it possible to combine Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) in the same trek?
How crowded does Poon Hill get during peak season?
Are the stone steps from Ulleri to Ghorepani really tough to climb?
Do teahouses on this trek have Western toilets?
Will I find vegetarian meals easily along the Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek?
Since Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is short, is guide and porter mandatory?
Do I need trekking poles for this trek?
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