Difficulty
Poon Hill Trek difficulty is easy to moderate. The altitude is manageable, but the stair sections are still a good leg workout.
Most healthy travelers can do it with a little pre-trip walking practice.
Poon Hill (Ghorepani-Ghandruk) Trek
Annapurna Region • 8 Days
Popular short trek with sunrise at Poon Hill over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri.
Lush forests, terraces, Gurung and Magar villages; great for beginners.
Itinerary
- 1Arrival in KathmanduMeet our representatives and trip briefing.
- 2Kathmandu to PokharaDrive or fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- 3Trek to UlleriDrive to Tikhedhunga and trek to Ulleri (2,055 m).
- 4Trek to GhorepaniTrek to Ghorepani (2,850 m).
- 5Poon Hill and Trek to TadapaniHike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) and trek to Tadapani (2,540 m).
- 6Trek to Ghandruk and Drive to PokharaTrek to Ghandruk (1,940 m) & drive to Pokhara.
- 7Pokhara to KathmanduDrive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- 8Final DepartureDeparture from Kathmandu.
Complete Trek Guide
Data reflects 2024/2025 permit references and current itinerary/cost benchmarks from active Nepal operators.
Poon Hill Trektrekking in NepalPoon Hill Trek costPoon Hill Trek difficultyPoon Hill Trek best timePoon Hill Trek packing list
Quick Planner
Best Season
Poon Hill Trek best time is spring and autumn when visibility is usually strongest. Rhododendron bloom in spring adds color to the forest sections.
Winter is quieter and still possible, but mornings at sunrise viewpoint can be very cold.
Budget Range
As of 2024/2025, Poon Hill Trek cost is often around USD 350 to 800 depending on guide support and itinerary length.
It is one of the best value treks for first-time visitors.
- Permits: ACAP and TIMS in common arrangements.
- Guide: around USD 25 to 35 per day.
- Meals and lodging: often USD 20 to 35 per day.
- Pokhara trail transport: relatively low compared with flight-based routes.
Permits & Access
Most trekkers arrange ACAP and TIMS before going. Permit checks are common near entry points.
From Pokhara, road transfer to trailheads is straightforward and makes this trek easy to fit into short itineraries.
Packing
Your Poon Hill packing list can be lighter than high-altitude expeditions, but mornings still require warm layers.
- Comfortable trekking shoes with good grip.
- Fleece/down layer for sunrise hike.
- Rain layer and sun protection.
- Reusable water bottle and basic medicine.
- Trekking poles if stairs bother your knees.
Teahouses, Food & the Vibe
Teahouses are widely available and generally comfortable for a short trek. Dining rooms are friendly and often lively in peak season.
Food is familiar and simple, with dal bhat, momos, soups, and eggs common everywhere.
Tips from People Who've Done It
Poon Hill is short, so timing and weather windows matter more than people think.
- Choose your sunrise day with a favorable forecast if you have flexibility.
- Sleep early at Ghorepani because the viewpoint hike starts before dawn.
- Bring a warm hat and gloves even in shoulder seasons.
- Carry small cash notes for tea houses and local snacks.
- If you have extra time, include Ghandruk for a richer cultural stop.