The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, also known as the Annapurna Sunrise Trek, is one of Nepal’s most popular short treks in the Annapurna region. Famous for its breathtaking sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210m) over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including peaks like Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167m), this trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Trekkers pass through blooming rhododendron forests (especially vibrant in spring), terraced farmlands, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani. Suitable for beginners, families, and time-constrained travelers, it’s a teahouse-based trek with comfortable lodges, hearty meals, and moderate trails. The route highlights the diverse flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area, along with warm hospitality from ethnic communities. Unlike longer high-altitude treks, Poon Hill provides accessible Himalayan panoramas without extreme risks, making it an ideal introduction to Nepal’s trekking culture.

Trip Facts

Fact	Details
Duration	8-10 days (including travel to/from Kathmandu; core trek 4-6 days)
Difficulty	Easy to Moderate (suitable for beginners and families; involves stairs and gradual ascents, 5-7 hours daily walking; good fitness recommended)
Max Altitude	3,210m (Poon Hill viewpoint)
Best Season	Spring (March-May) for rhododendron blooms and mild weather; Autumn (September-November) for clear skies and stable conditions; Possible in winter (December-February) for solitude (colder); Avoid monsoon (June-August) due to rain and leeches
Starting/Ending Point	Kathmandu or Pokhara (drive/flight to Nayapul start; return to Pokhara)
Accommodation	3-star hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara; Comfortable teahouses/lodges during trek (twin-sharing, attached or shared bathrooms)
Meals	Breakfast in cities; Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) on trek with Nepali/international options (dal bhat, pasta, momos)
Group Size	Minimum 1 (independent possible); Ideal 2-12 for guided groups
Permits Required	Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card
Transportation	Tourist bus or domestic flight (Kathmandu-Pokhara); Private jeep/taxi to trailhead
Activities	Trekking, sunrise viewing, village exploration, cultural immersion, photography

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Airport pickup, hotel transfer, rest, and trek briefing. Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m) – Scenic drive (6-7 hours) or short flight (30 minutes), explore Lakeside, boating on Phewa Lake. Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 3: Pokhara to Tikhedhunga/Ulleri (1,960m) – Drive to Nayapul (1.5 hours), trek via Birethanti through forests and villages (5-6 hours). Overnight: Teahouse.
Day 4: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m) – Steep stone stairs through rhododendron forests, passing Banthanti (5-7 hours). Overnight: Teahouse.
Day 5: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210m) to Tadapani (2,630m) – Early hike to Poon Hill for sunrise (1 hour up), return for breakfast, trek through forests (6-7 hours). Overnight: Teahouse.
Day 6: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m) – Descend through oak forests, explore Gurung village and museum (4-5 hours). Overnight: Teahouse.
Day 7: Ghandruk to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara – Easy descent to Syauli Bazaar, drive back (5 hours trek + 1.5 hours drive). Relax in Pokhara. Overnight: Hotel.
Day 8: Pokhara to Kathmandu – Drive or fly back, free time for shopping/sightseeing. Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 9: Departure – Airport transfer for international flight.

Cost Include

inclusions in a standard package

Airport transfers and ground transportation (private vehicle or tourist bus).
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee).
Teahouse accommodation during trek (twin-sharing).
Experienced English-speaking guide and porter (1 porter per 2 trekkers, up to 15kg luggage).
Domestic flights or bus (Kathmandu-Pokhara round-trip if included).
Permits: ACAP and TIMS fees.
Trekking equipment: Sleeping bag, duffle bag (returnable if provided).
First aid kit, emergency support, and government taxes.
Sightseeing or leisure time in Pokhara.

Cost Exclude

International flights and Nepal visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory, covering medical/evacuation).
Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara beyond breakfast .
Personal expenses: Drinks, snacks, hot showers , Wi-Fi/charging .
Tips for guide, porter, driver .
Extra nights due to delays or extensions.
Personal trekking gear.
Optional activities (e.g., paragliding in Pokhara).

Trekking Gears

Essential gear for moderate weather (layers for 15-25°C days to 0-10°C nights; some provided or rentable in Pokhara):

Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece jacket, waterproof jacket/pants, trekking pants, warm hat, gloves, sun hat, buff.
Footwear: Comfortable trekking boots (broken-in), sandals for camps, wool socks (3 pairs).
Sleeping: Sleeping bag (rated to 0°C; often provided), liner for hygiene.
Accessories: Trekking poles (helpful for stairs), headlamp, sunglasses (UV), sunscreen (SPF 50+), water bottle/purification tablets.
Bags: Daypack (20-30L), duffle for porter.
Other: Personal first aid (blister care, painkillers), camera, power bank, toiletries, quick-dry towel.
Pack light (10-12kg); focus on rain protection during shoulder seasons.

FAQs

Is Poon Hill Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s one of the easiest Himalayan treks with teahouses, no camping, and moderate altitudes—ideal for first-timers and families.
What views can I expect?
Panoramic sunrise/sunset over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and more from Poon Hill; forest and village scenery throughout.
Do I need a guide?
Not mandatory (unlike restricted areas), but recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insights; porters lighten loads.
How fit do I need to be?
Moderate fitness; daily 5-7 hours walking with stairs. Prepare with hikes; no technical skills required.
What permits are needed?
ACAP (USD 30) and TIMS (USD 20); agencies handle them.
Best time for rhododendrons?
March-April in spring for colorful blooms.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Low risk below 3,500m, but stay hydrated and ascend gradually.
Can I extend the trek?
Yes, combine with Annapurna Base Camp or short Pokhara side trips.
What food is available?
Varied teahouse menus: dal bhat (unlimited refills), pasta, soups; vegetarian-friendly.

Overview

Cost

Map

Overview

Cost

Map

Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an easy-to-moderate adventure lasting 7-10 days (depending on starting point), covering scenic trails from Pokhara through lush foothills. The highlight is the early morning hike to Poon Hill for a 360-degree sunrise spectacle over snow-capped giants. The trek winds through rhododendron and oak forests, stone-paved paths, and charming villages, offering insights into local lifestyles, traditional architecture, and festivals. Accommodation is in cozy teahouses with basic amenities, and meals feature Nepali dal bhat alongside international options. No restricted area permits are needed—just standard ACAP and TIMS—allowing independent trekking, though a guide enhances safety and cultural understanding. It’s perfect for those seeking stunning views without the intensity of higher treks like Annapurna Base Camp. The route is well-marked, with daily hikes of 5-7 hours, gradual ascents, and opportunities for birdwatching and photography. Sustainable practices are encouraged to preserve the area’s biodiversity and support local economies.

Highlights

Vibrant Rhododendron Forests: Trekking through blooming national flower forests (especially stunning in spring), oak woods, and lush greenery.
Cultural Villages: Exploring traditional Gurung and Magar settlements like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, with museums, warm hospitality, and insights into local lifestyles.
Scenic Pokhara Base: Starting/ending in lakeside Pokhara with opportunities for relaxation and additional views of the Annapurna range.