If you’re looking for a short, beginner-friendly, and panoramic Himalayan trek, the Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is the perfect choice. Located in the Annapurna region, this iconic route offers some of the best sunrise views over the Himalayas without the need for high-altitude acclimatization or weeks on the trail.
Often called the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, this scenic journey winds through rhododendron forests, Gurung and Magar villages, and rolling hills, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 meters) with views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Whether you’re a first-time trekker, a photographer, or a short-holiday traveler, Poon Hill is a must-do Himalayan experience.
The Poon Hill Trek is a 4–5 day short trek in the lower Annapurna region. Starting from Nayapul or Ulleri (accessible from Pokhara), the route passes through Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk before looping back.
It’s ideal for:
Beginners
Families
Solo travelers
Time-bound trekkers
It doesn’t require prior high-altitude trekking experience or special permits like the Upper Mustang or Manaslu regions.
Here’s a popular 5-day Ghorepani Poon Hill trek itinerary, perfect for maximizing scenic value and cultural experience:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5 hrs), trek to Tikhedhunga/Ulleri
Altitude: ~1,540m
Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
Day 2: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani
Altitude: 2,850m
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Stay in Ghorepani village
Day 3: Hike early to Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise, return to Ghorepani, trek to Tadapani
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk village
Cultural village exploration
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 5: Trek to Kimche and drive to Pokhara
Trekking Time: 2–3 hours
You can shorten it to a 3–4 day trek by skipping Ghandruk or driving from Ulleri.
The route typically includes:
Nayapul
Tikhedhunga/Ulleri
Ghorepani
Poon Hill (Viewpoint)
Tadapani
Ghandruk
Kimche
Offline trekking maps and apps like Maps.me or AllTrails are useful for orientation.
| Location | Altitude (m) |
|---|---|
| Nayapul | 1,070 |
| Tikhedhunga | 1,540 |
| Ghorepani | 2,850 |
| Poon Hill | 3,210 |
| Tadapani | 2,630 |
| Ghandruk | 2,012 |
At 3,210 meters, Poon Hill offers a low-altitude trek with minimal risk of altitude sickness.
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Rhododendron blooms, warm days, clear views |
| Autumn (Sept–Nov) | Best visibility, festive season, ideal weather |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Clear skies, but colder mornings |
| Monsoon (Jun–Aug) | Lush landscapes but wet and slippery trails |
March to May and September to November are peak seasons for clear skies and safe trails.
| Expense Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Guide (optional but helpful) | $25–$35/day |
| Porter (optional) | $20–$25/day |
| Food & Lodging | $20–$35/day |
| Transportation (Pokhara–Nayapul–Pokhara) | $25–$40 |
| ACAP Permit | NPR 3,000 (approx. $23) |
| TIMS Card | NPR 2,000 (approx. $15) |
Total Estimated Cost:
Budget Trek (Independent): $150–$250
Standard Guided Trek: $300–$500
Luxury Option: $600+
For Nepali trekkers:
ACAP permit: NPR 100
No TIMS card required
Accommodation: NPR 500–1000 per night
Meals: NPR 300–600 per meal
Transportation: Local buses from Pokhara (~NPR 500 total)
Total Estimated Cost for Nepali: NPR 5,000–9,000 (~USD 40–70)
Accommodation & Food
Tea houses and guesthouses available in all villages
Meals include dal bhat, noodles, pancakes, eggs, tea/coffee
Electricity for charging (~NPR 100–200)
Wi-Fi available in most areas (paid)
Light trekking shoes, thermal layers, windproof jacket
Water bottle + purification tablets
Sunscreen, hat, trekking pole
Power bank, camera
Personal meds and light snacks
Short and scenic (ideal for 5–6 day holidays)
Epic sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna
Culturally rich Gurung and Magar villages
Beginner-friendly, no prior experience needed
Easy access from Pokhara (no flights required)
The Poon Hill trek in Nepal is the perfect blend of short-duration, incredible scenery, and rich cultural interaction. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned trekker, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a glimpse into Himalayan beauty without the stress of high-altitude or long days.
It’s affordable, accessible, and achievable and the sunrise from Poon Hill will stay with you forever.
1. How long is the Poon Hill trek?
Most people complete the trek in 4–5 days, depending on pace and route customization.
2. What is the altitude of Poon Hill?
Poon Hill is 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) above sea level high enough for views, but low enough to avoid altitude sickness.
3. What is the Poon Hill trek cost for Nepali citizens?
For Nepali trekkers, the cost is about NPR 5,000–9,000, including permits, meals, accommodation, and transport.
4. Do I need a guide for Poon Hill?
No, it’s possible to trek independently, but hiring a guide adds cultural insight and logistical ease.
5. Is Poon Hill suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Yes! The trail is well-paved and moderate, making it a family-friendly option for various age groups.
We are a government-authorized trekking agency in Nepal. We have strictly followed all necessary legal procedures and obtained necessary licenses and certificates to be liable to operate travel services in Nepal.
