Article Published On - 15-10-2024
Discover Pokhara and Annapurna Conservation Area from its scenic heights while trekking the Ghorepani to Poon Hill Trek. It will be an exhilarating journey. This serene trek departs from the popular Annapurna Base Camp route and leads you to an oasis at 3210 meters where majestic Himalayas like Annapurna, Machapucchre, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung Himal can be seen in all their glory. This well-trodden path is easy to follow and passes through authentic Nepalese villages, making it suitable for trekkers of all levels – families and beginners alike! This 4-day expedition provides an unforgettable insight into Nepal’s trekking culture, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill’s summit. To experience it at its best, embark on this trek between March to May or September and December (when optimal conditions exist).
Day 1
Arrive at Pokhara
Arrive in Pokhara and settle into your lodging. Spend the day exploring its vibrant atmosphere, visiting various eateries, and perusing shops for any essential items that may come in handy.
Day 2
Drive from Pokhara to Hile (4922 ft) – 52 km. Trek from Hile to Ulleri (6578 ft) – 2.5 km / 1.5 hours
As we embark on the Poon Hill Trek today, our trek begins towards Ulleri Village from Hile. The trek from Hile to Ulleri provides the ideal first-day trek experience, allowing us to take it slow, relax, and acclimate ourselves for what lies ahead. From Hile, we will journey towards Ttrekdunga Village, where two small suspension bridges await us before ascending more than 3500 steps leading directly uphill towards Ulleri – providing us with a good warm-up for the upcoming trekking days. As you travel along your route, you will catch glimpses of scenic Nepali villages and have the chance to interact with their residents. Due to its proximity to popular treks such as Annapurna Base Camp and Khopra Ridge, this trek may initially be quite busy. After several days, however, crowds should begin thinning out as we reach Ghorepani, where you’ll enjoy a satisfying dinner and stay overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3
Ulleri to Ghorepani (9318 ft) – 7.5km / 5 hours
Once departing Ulleri, your journey will consist of a gentle 200-meter ascent through dense forest treks lined with towering trees. The path will gradually climb, passing by the charming Nangethanti Hamlet – approximately five kilometres from Ulleri – before finally leading you towards Ghorepani. Route 15 passes through lush rhododendron forests, offering stunning displays of vibrant pink blooms at specific times of the year. Ghorepani is a bustling village tucked into the side of a steep slope, its entire settlement arranged tier by tier, producing distinct lower and upper sections. You will be staying in teahouses located in upper Ghorepani so as to be ready for an early start on Poon Hill trek the next morning – be sure to get plenty of rest, as an early wake-up call awaits so as to capture its breathtaking sunrise views.
Day 4
Ghorepani to Poon Hill Top (10,532 ft) to Ghandruk (6726 ft) – 19 km, 8 – 9 hrs. Ghandruk to Pokhara – 2 hrs Drive.
On our morning excursion from Ghorepani, we ascend 300 meters to Poon Hill Top from Ghorepani for breathtaking sunrise views of some major Greater Himalayan ranges including Mt Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Annapurna South (7129m), Himchuli 6221 m and Machhapuchre (6993 m). After spending time at Poon Hill Top, we will return for breakfast before heading downhill back to Ghandruk for the trip back to Ghorepani from where we drive back uphill towards Pokhara which typically takes 2 hours from start.
Day 5
Depart from Pokhara
Starting Point: Nayapul, near Pokhara
By Air: To travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by air, take an internal flight (25 minutes).
By Road: Tack on 6-8 hours for travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by bus. From Pokhara, the Trek head can be reached within 20 kilometres. Taxi or Jeep to Nayapul or Hile (1.5 hours).
Spring: warm Temperatures, Clear Skies, and Blooming Rhododendrons. Autumn (September to November). Mountains benefit most from clear air and dry trails for optimal visibility.
Director & Founder
With over 12 years of experience in the Himalayas, Preetam has summited multiple 6000 - 7000 meter peaks and led more than 200 expeditions across iconic routes like Bali Pass, Buran Ghati, Rupin Pass, Pin Bhabha, Stok Kangri, and Black Peak. His deep mountain experience and leadership make him a trusted name in Himalayan trekking. Write to him at: preetam@trekupindia.com
