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Group Size1
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RegionAnnapurna
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GeographyMountain/ Forest/ Village/ Glaciers
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DifficultyEasy
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Max Altitude3210m
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AccommodationHotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge
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TransportationHotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge
The Poon Hill – Ghandruk trek is a popular easy grade trek in the Annapurna Region of the great Himalayan trail. At a maximum altitude of 3210m, the Poon Hill-Ghandruk trek is one of the best options for anyone with limited time wanting to witness the Himalayas, the culture, and tradition of an ethnic group such as the Gurung. The co-existence of these groups make this trek an interesting one with festivities going on throughout the year.
The inhabitants of this area of Annapurna Region are famous for their shamanistic traditions which include the consumption of wild honey from the Himalayan Honeybee which also happens to be the largest honeybee in the world. The honey hunters have been featured in National Geographic special and many other media. This region having a bountiful bio-diversity attracts visitors from all over the world. Traditional tea guest houses, lodges, homestays and community guest houses are found all along the way in this trek, making it rather easy than other treks.
The trek takes around 5 days to complete and is suitable for beginner trekkers. Along the way, trekkers can experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Gurung people, one of the ethnic groups of Nepal.
This trek is perfect for families with children as it allows them to explore without much risk and stress. The children are particularly fascinated by the visitors and take no time to mingle and hover around. Growing up in this region makes them accustomed to the incline and often walk faster than most of the visitors.
Amble Himalya- led and run by women, is an experienced travel and trekking company operating from Kathmandu. With Nepal Social years of experience, we operate the best guiding services in the Himalayas of Nepal and guarantee to you the best experience. We are also tied up with the best in transportation and hospitality services, thereby taking care of all your holiday planning.
Trip Highlights
- Poon Hill Sunrise: The trek offers an opportunity to witness the stunning sunrise from Poon Hill, which is famous for its panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
- Beautiful Villages: The trek passes through several charming villages like Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Ghorepani, which offer a glimpse into the rich culture and hospitality of the Nepali people.
- Rhododendron Forests: The trek passes through lush rhododendron forests, which are especially beautiful during the spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
- Natural Hot Springs: The trek also offers an opportunity to soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, which is a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of trekking.
- Himalayan Panorama: The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
- Cultural Experience: The trek passes through villages inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities, providing trekkers with a unique cultural experience and an opportunity to learn about the local way of life.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Drive to Nayapul From Pokhara (1070m) and trek to Hile.
Day 02: Trek to Ghorepani (3210m)
Day 03: Trek to Poon Hill (3,210m) and Trek to Tadapani (2630m)
Day 04: Trek down to Ghandruk (2010m)
Day 05: Trek down to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
Ghandruk Poonhill Trek Itinerary
On Day 1 of the Poon Hill Trek, you will drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which takes about an hour and a half. Nayapul is the starting point of the trek. After arriving at Nayapul, you will start your trek and walk along the banks of the Modi Khola River. The trail passes through small villages and terraced fields, offering great views of the surrounding mountains. You will trek through the village of Birethanti, where you'll need to show your permits at the checkpoint. From Birethanti, the trail starts to climb up steeply through a forested area to Hile, which is at an elevation of 1,495 meters. The trek takes about 3-4 hours, depending on your pace. Along the way, you'll pass several small teahouses where you can take a break and enjoy some refreshments. You'll spend the night in a teahouse in Hile
On Day 2 of the Poon Hill Trek, you'll trek from Hile to Ghorepani, which is at an altitude of 3,210 meters. The trail gradually climbs up through the forested area, passing through several small villages and settlements. You'll pass through Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, which are steep uphill climbs with stone steps. After Ulleri, the trail becomes more gentle as you trek through rhododendron forests, which are especially beautiful in the spring when the rhododendrons are in bloom. You'll reach Ghorepani in the afternoon after a trek of around 6-7 hours. Ghorepani is a small village with several teahouses and lodges, and it's a popular stopover for trekkers on the way to Poon Hill. In the evening, you can explore the village and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You'll spend the night in a teahouse in Ghorepani. Early morning before sunrise we will hike up to Poon Hill (45mins) to view the spectacular sunrise. The Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Himchuli range change many shades with the slowly rising sun rays. This is one of the best places to view sunrises from. After taking some beautiful shots of the mountain ranges we will trek to Tadapani where we will stay the night.
On Day 3 of the Poon Hill Trek, you'll wake up early in the morning and trek to Poon Hill, which is at an altitude of 3,210 meters. Poon Hill is a famous viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including the iconic peaks of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. The trek to Poon Hill takes about an hour, and you'll need to climb a steep hill to reach the viewpoint. After enjoying the sunrise and mountain views from Poon Hill, you'll trek back down to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, you'll continue your trek towards Tadapani, which is at an elevation of 2,630 meters. The trail passes through dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees, and you'll encounter several small streams and waterfalls along the way. You'll reach Tadapani in the late afternoon, after a trek of around 6-7 hours. Tadapani is a small village with several teahouses and lodges, and it offers great views of the surrounding mountains. You'll spend the night in a teahouse in Tadapani.
The trek is relatively easy and mostly downhill, passing through dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees. Along the way, you'll have great views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains. As you descend, you'll pass through small villages and settlements, including Bhaisi Kharka and Kimche. After a trek of around 5-6 hours, you'll reach Ghandruk, which is a large Gurung village with stone houses and narrow alleys. Ghandruk is one of the most popular destinations in the Annapurna region and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Ghandruk has little stairs that connect the little guest houses and teahouses. Ghandruk is a poster like a village with typical Nepalese houses and friendly people practicing multiple cultures and from various ethnicities. During festival season one may be able to witness many traditions that are very particular to this reason. Overnight at guest house.
Early in the morning, we will walk down to Nayapul through familiar landscapes. he trek is mostly downhill, passing through small villages and terraced fields. You'll follow the Modi Khola river and cross several suspension bridges before reaching Birethanti, which is a small town with shops and restaurants. From Nayapul to will take a ride back to Pokhara. Overnight at Pokhara
Ghandruk Poonhill Trek Included
- All ground transportation as per the itinerary
- Trekking permits and TIMS card
- Accommodation in tea houses during the trek
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- Guide and porter's food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment
- Government taxes and service charges
Ghandruk Poonhill Trek Excluded
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses like drinks, snacks, hot shower, wifi, etc
- Tips for guide and porter (recommended but not mandatory)
- Any other expenses not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
Packing List
Clothing:
- Waterproof jacket
- Fleece jacket
- Trekking pants
- Thermal innerwear
- T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts
- Hiking socks and woolen socks
- Sun hat and woolen hat
- Gloves
- Footwear:
- Hiking boots
- Sandals or comfortable shoes for wearing around the teahouses
Backpack:
- Daypack for carrying essentials during the trek
- Duffel bag or backpack for carrying all your gear
Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Trekking poles
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
- Personal first-aid kit
Toiletries:
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Quick-dry towel
Others:
- Cash for purchasing food, drinks, and other items along the trail
- Passport and necessary permits
Note : It’s important to keep in mind that the weight of your gear should be manageable for the trek. It’s recommended to pack light and only bring the essentials. You can also rent some of the gear in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you don’t want to purchase them. Additionally, make sure to check the weather forecast before your trek and pack accordingly.
Ghandruk Poonhill Trek FAQ's
Ghorepani Poonhill trek does not require previous trekking experience and is suitable for people of all age groups who are moderately fit. Some physical fitness activities such as running, swimming and walking are recommended before your Ghorepani Poonhill trek. People with pre-existing medical conditions must seek advice from their doctors before considering the trek. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort, but you will be acclimatized throughout the trek.
For airport pick up and drop off, and Kathmandu visit we use private vehicles of various categories such as cars, vans, micro, bus etc., depending on the size of the group. We take a domestic flight from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
ATM and credit card facilities can be used in Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the trek itself, you need to have some cash with you as ATM services are not available in the remote villages, and payment is only acceptable in cash.
You should carry Nepalese Rupees on the trek as teahouses will never accept foreign currencies. You’ll be only spending for hot showers, charging batteries, additional drinks and snacks, and the purchase of curios. Please note that it is illegal to purchase antiques in Nepal.
Sure. You can stay as long as you want. We feel a holiday should not be concluded until you feel content. As per your request, we can add some days to your trip with additional costs to cover guides, hotel, transportation, and other expenses.
The best time to do the Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November) when the weather is generally dry and stable, and the skies are clear. During these months, you can expect great views of the mountains and pleasant trekking conditions.
The Poon Hill Trek is a moderate trek that can be done by trekkers of all levels of experience. The trek involves walking on steep and rocky trails, but the pace is generally slow and comfortable. The highest altitude reached during the trek is 3,210 meters, which is not too high and allows for adequate acclimatization.
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Group Size1
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RegionAnnapurna
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GeographyMountain/ Forest/ Village/ Glaciers
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DifficultyEasy
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Max Altitude3210m
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AccommodationHotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge
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TransportationHotel/ Guesthouse/ Lodge