Annapurna region is one of the most popular trekking regions in Nepal. Since the Annapurna region trekking trail was explored, Himalayas On Foot has had years of experience operating trekking in Annapurna region. Among them, Poonhill trekking is one of the most beautiful short treks in the Annapurna Region.
Annapurna region unfolds a combination of snow-capped peaks, crystal clear blue lakes, chaotic rivers with deep gorges, sacred Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, and hot springs. You can also witness picturesque villages inhabited by simple and friendly diverse ethnic groups from Nepal.
Trekking in the Annapurna region is an experience of both natural and the cultural aspects of Nepal. The Annapurna region offers spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Annapurna South, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu, Fishtail mountain (Machhapuchre), and much more. It also encompasses beautiful landscapes, wild animals, and monasteries.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is one of the most popular trekking trails for those who are running short of time but desire to get the best experience of the Himalayas. The Poonhill Trek offers spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna Mountains and a pleasant stay at hospitable Gurung villages along the way. This trek offers a great combination of both natural beauty and cultural exposure.
As a whole, Poonhill Trek offers an amazing trekking experience in a short period of time.
If you would like to further explore the Annapurna region, Nepal has different trekking trails like Annapurna circuit trekking (around Annapurna trekking), Annapurna base camp trekking, Jomsom Muktinath trekking, and Upper Mustang trekking.
Trip Highlights
- 360 panoramic views of Annapurna/Manaslu/Dhaulagiri and other mountains from Poonhill
- Amazing rhododendron forests and wildlife like musk deer
- Amazing sunrise and sunset with mountains from Ghorepani
- Visit the natural city of Pokhara including the Phewa lake, caves, and temples
- Witnessing Gurung and Magar culture during the trek
- Beautiful Madi river and waterfalls which come from the Annapurna glacier
Days | Itinerary | Altitude | Time |
---|---|---|---|
Day 01 | Arrival at Kathmandu | 1,400 m | - |
Day 02 | Fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 25 min |
Day 03 | Drive To Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga | 1,480 m | 4 hrs |
Day 04 | Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani | 2,860 m | 6-7 hrs |
Day 05 | Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani | 3,200 m | 6-7 hrs |
Day 06 | Trek down to Ghandruk | 1,940 m | 3-4 hrs |
Day 07 | Trek back to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara | 1,480 m | 4-5 hrs |
Day 08 | Fly to Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 25 min |
Day 09 | Departure to Kathmandu International Airport | 1,400 m | - |
<p>Welcome to Nepal, the Himalayan kingdom!!!</p><p></p><p>You’ll be received by our representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to Maya Boutique Hotel. </p><p></p><p>You’ll be given some time for rest and then you’ll attend small team meeting. You’ll be introduced with your trek guide and he’ll shortly brief about the upcoming trip. Overnight stay at Maya Boutique Hotel.</p>
<p><strong>Flight Hours: </strong>25 minutes</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>1,400 m</p><p></p><p>We will take the afternoon flight from Kathmandu and fly to Pokhara. Once we reach Pokhara we will check into a hotel. The guide will brief us about the trek in the evening. You can explore the beautiful city of Pokhara if you wish. Overnight in Pokhara.</p>
<p><strong>Traveling Hours: </strong>1 hour</p><p><strong>Walking Hours:</strong> 4 hours</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>1,480 m</p><p></p><p>On this day we will drive for about an hour until we reach Nayapul. On the way, magnificent view of Fish Tail, Annapurna South, and Annapurna II along with other mountains will come into sight. </p><p></p><p>The view of the entire Pokhara Valley is spectacular. From Nayapul, we will trek towards Birethanti. Then the trail moves along the Bank of Tikhe Dhunga and this is a viewpoint of a beautiful scenery of natural waterfall and rural countryside.</p><p></p><p> It will take about 4 hours to get to Tikhe Dhunga from Nayapul. Overnight at Tikhe Dhunga.</p>
<p><strong>Walking Hours: </strong>6 -7 hours</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>2,860 m</p><p></p><p>On this day we will trek to Ghorepani. The initially descending trail will reach a river after crossing which we will trek toward Ulleri Village- largest village of the Magar community. </p><p></p><p>Along the journey, we will pass through Banthanti which offers a spectacular view of Annapurna South. From Banthanti, the trail passes through a dense forest of rhododendron, and magnolia, before reaching Ghorepani.</p><p></p><p> It will take about 6 hours in total to reach Ghorepani from Tikhe Dhunga. Overnight at Ghorepani.</p>
<p><strong>Walking Hours: </strong>6-7 hours</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>3,210 m</p><p></p><p>We will begin this day’s expedition early and trek to Poon hill which is the viewpoint of a wonderful sun-rise. The entire region is surrounded by snow-capped peaks rising above the horizon. The whole of Annapurna range is visible from here. </p><p></p><p>We will then trek towards Tadapani through a forest blossoming with spring flowers. Overnight stay at Tadapani.</p>
<p><strong>Walking Hours: </strong>3-4 hours</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>1,940 m</p><p></p><p>From Tadapani we continue to Chhomrong from where the trail descends through forests to Gurjung Khola and then the trail ascends slightly until Kimrong. </p><p></p><p>Then we reach the top of the Deurali. Ghandrunk is a village of Gurung people, one of the ethnic groups of Nepal; they have their own culture, costume, and life style. Ghandrunk is one of the most famous destinations for trekkers known for its beautiful mountain views. </p><p></p><p>We will spend the night in Ghandrung.</p>
<p><strong>Walking Hours:</strong> 4-5 hours</p><p><strong>Traveling Hours:</strong> 1 hour</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>1,480 m</p><p></p><p>On this day we will trek back to Nayapul. From Nayapul we will drive back to Pokhara. We will reach Pokhara in about 3-4 hours. Once we reach Pokhara we will check into a hotel. </p><p></p><p>You can explore the city as you please. Sitting along the shore of the Fewa Taal (Lake) while watching the sunset is a peaceful experience. Pokhara also has many shops that sell local handicraft products. </p><p></p><p>Out of the variety of restaurants Pokhara has to offer, you can choose the cuisine that’s fits your taste. Overnight in Pokhara.</p>
<p><strong>Flight Hours:</strong> Approximately 25 minutes</p><p><strong>Max Altitude: </strong>1,400 m</p><p></p><p>We will leave early on this morning to Kathmandu. Upon our arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can rest or explore the surrounding areas. We will spend the night in Kathmandu.</p>
<p>Officially the trip end. Our representative will transfer to the International Airport, for your final departure flight to your home country.</p><p></p><p>Send us an email at <a href="mailto:himalayasonfoot@gmail.com">himalayasonfoot@gmail.com</a> or directly call, viber and whatsapp at <a href="tel:+9779851060902">+9779851060902</a> to book this trek or for any queries you may have.</p>
Cost Includes
- Flight ticket to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu,airport transfer as per itinerary
- 2 nights accommodation in Pokhara 3 star b/b plan
- All ground transportation by private vehicles
- All accommodations in teahouse
- meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the treks
- Farewell dinner in Katmandu in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant
- All cost for guide leader (well trained & English Speaking)
- All required major permits
- Porters to carry your bags during the trek (1 sharing porter for 2 clients)
- All necessary paper works and permits
- Travel & Rescue arrangements
- Medical Kit Bag
- All government and local taxes if necessar
Cost Excludes
- Visa fees/ International airfare to & from home city/ international airport departure taxes
- Excess baggage charges & Monuments & Monastery fees
- All the drinks while you are on trek
- Hotels in kathmandu
- Lunch And dinner while you are in Katmandu and pokhara except the fare well dinner
- tips for porter and guide
FAQs on Trekking in Nepal
Nepal is a paradise filled with natural flora and fauna. From the plain lands of Terai to the high Himalayas, there is diversification and singularity in every aspect. This is what makes Nepal so unique.
Due to variation in the topography and altitudes, Nepal has been famously spotted as a diverse Trekking Region. Nepal offers normal trekking routes starting from 2000m (Dhampus Trek, Ghandruk Trek) to 5500m (Everest Base Camp). And I can tell you that every single trek has its own peculiarity and adventure.
You may have a lot of queries regarding trekking in Nepal. In this article, I have tried to answer some of them.
Is it safe to travel in Nepal?
After the devastating earthquake in 2015, every visitor has had this common question in mind. And the answer is yes, it is safe to travel in Nepal. You can come here and enjoy without any hesitation or second thoughts.
After the quake, numerous reconstruction activities have been done and many are even going on. So, you will be witnessing a different outlook of the country. If you are willing, you can even lend a hand financially or through volunteering for reconstruction in the remote areas.
How is the current political scenario in Nepal?
The political situation in Nepal is facing a transitional shift. Nepal is in the process of adopting a federal structure of governance form. From the political view, there are not many obstacles as you might think.
How can I get a Nepal visa for arrival?
You can get your arrival visa at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Most of the people can obtain a visa on entry to Nepal. Some countries’ visa will need to be arranged prior traveling.
The price of visa depends on the number of days you will be staying. $25 is for 15 days from the date of issue, $40 for 30 days and $100 for 90 days tourist visa. You will need two passport size photos. Other documents are not required.
You can apply for an online visa through (http://www.online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/ ).
Do you have any pickup facility from the airport on arrival and departure?
Yes, our company has a pick-up facility as a complementary policy. At your arrival, our agency airport representative will pick you up from the airport. You can recognize us at the spot easily through our company’s name card.
And when you complete your trip, we will drop you back.
What type of insurance should I get? How can I get it?
We advise you to get your general travel and medical insurance cover from your respective country. In Nepal, you should buy medical and mountain evacuation insurance for traveling. But, we don’t offer mountain rescue insurance here.
Who can go on the trips?
Our trips are designed for everyone who has a love for outdoor adventure and cultural experience. Of course, some trips may be a bit difficult for people who are physically unfit.
In such cases, you need to choose only those trips that suit you best. Please contact for prior management.
What if I am a solo traveler? Is there any supplementary service for singles?
Not a problem at all. Many of our customers are traveling single. You also have the option to join a small group or another solo traveler.
Even if you are a single traveling woman, you need not worry. You will not face any kind of awkwardness.
Yes. There is an extra charge for traveling alone. Please contact us to find out more.
Do I really need a trekking guide?
According to recent changes in policy, trekking guides are almost mandatory for trekking in Nepal for everyone. It is to ensure safety and protection of all visiting tourists.
Plus, the journey will be a lot more informative and memorable with guides. S/he will be your friend and company during the journey.
But if you are well experienced and have trekked before as well, you may not require one. But if you are with a guide, it will be easy for you to tackle any problems during the trek.
Do I need a porter?
This part completely depends on your choice. If you think you are able to carry backpacks on your own, you can avoid them. If not, it is better to hire one.
You can have double benefits as well. As porters may have knowledge about the trails and settlements, you may not even require a guide.
Do you have tailor-made trips?
Yes. If there is any specific place that you want to visit that is not on our itinerary or if you want to combine trips or do multiple treks, we can surely arrange that. Send us your ideas and we will work with you to put together a customized trip of a lifetime.
When is the best time to visit Nepal for trekking?
Spring and Autumn season can be considered as the best time for trekking in Nepal.
October to November is the most popular time for trekking in Nepal. As it is the post monsoon period, the climate is clear and the mountains have an amazing view.
After that, March to May is the second most popular time. This pre-monsoon time has warmer weather with good visibility.
Besides, short tea house treks can be done during the winter season as well. I suggest you guys not to make plans for treks during monsoon and winter as far as possible.
How difficult is trekking in Nepal?
Nepal is known worldwide for its adventurous and interesting trekking spots. You certainly need to keep in mind that the journey will be challenging.
The toughness of the trekking depends on its altitude, grade, and location. There are different gradings for trekking such as; easy, medium, challenging, and demanding. You can make your choice depending on these grades.
Regarding time, you will be trekking 5 to 7 hours per day for altitudes ranging from 3000m to 8848m. But again, it will depend on the type of trek.
So no need to be afraid! You will enjoy extreme wilderness untouched by modern development. You will be grateful for the thrill and adventure of exploring the exotic nature.
How long will be the trekking period?
The period of trekking will depend on its type and grades.
As I have already mentioned about the grading of trekking, the most challenging treks will be for more than 4 weeks. The easy type of trek completes in about 1-3 days whereas the moderate will take about a week. The days taken cannot be exactly calculated as it might depend on weather conditions and other emergencies.
How fit should I be for the trekking?
You should be mentally and physically prepared for the trekking. The success of trekking wholly depends on you. We suggest you choose the trekking routes that suit your fitness level. Obviously, shorter treks are easier than longer ones. The longer treks will require a better standard of fitness.
So, be in your best physical form. Believe in yourself and move on!
What are tea houses and camping trekking? Is it possible here?
Teahouse trekking and camping trekking are the two general types of trekking in Nepal.
Teahouse trekking is the most popular type of trekking in Nepal. It is available in the trekking regions of Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, and Manaslu.
In this type, you will get good accommodation and fooding with a variety of items in the menu including Nepali Dal Bhat.
Camping trekking means making a full camp, carrying everything for the whole trip and getting along for the destination. In this type, you will fully cater for camping. You (or porters or packed animals) will carry all the camping gears including food, tents, sleeping bags, medical kits, etc.
You will be pitching your camps wherever suitable. You will be accompanied by a guide, cooks, porters, and sometimes a packed animal.
As compared to the tea house trekking, camping trekking is a bit difficult.
What types of food will be served during the trekking?
All kinds of food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food will be mostly available. But, I recommend you to eat vegetarian during the trekking period. It will be more hygienic and physically helpful.
About food standards in tea houses, the fruit and vegetables are hygienic and well soaked in iodine before cooking. Food will be simple and homely reflecting the Nepali culture. Continental and international cuisine can be also served (depending upon the places).
Most of the lodges serve boiled and filtered water, safe for drinking. If you want, you can buy bottled mineral water as well.
Will there be any telephone/internet facilities at higher altitudes?
Most of the villages along the popular trekking routes have good coverage of cell phone and internet.
The Wi-Fi service is slowly becoming popular. You can also find telephones for international calls. But, these extra services will cost you extra money.
What do I need to carry on the trek?
If you hire a porter, he will carry your luggage and belongings. A porter will carry up to 50 kg of load.
You should remember to carry a small day-sack, fleece jacket, waterproof clothes, warm hat, sunhat, sun-cream, water bottle, first aid kit and water purification kit. Besides, you can carry any other stuff you think is important.
What is AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)? Can I suffer from AMS?
Altitude sickness is one of the major problems you may face during trekking in higher altitudes. It is also referred to as AMS. AMS is a kind of dizziness due to failure to adapt to the surrounding.
A severe headache, nose bleeding, rapid heartbeat, instant respiration, nausea, vomiting, coughing etc. are the common symptoms of AMS. Your lungs and brain will be the most affected during AMS. If you get any such indications, you have to be immediately moved to lower altitudes.
The chances of AMS cannot be predicted exactly. It sometimes depends on the surrounding and on your diet as well.
I recommend you to take proper advice and medication regarding AMS before you hit the road.
What happens in the case of emergency?
If you get in an emergency, we are ready to reach out and help you anyhow. Plus, our guides are properly trained to tackle such situations.
In the case of physical problems, the guides will help you out with their basic knowledge. If a serious emergency occurs, rescue operation by helicopter is available. Their expenses will be recovered from your insurance company.
Additionally, you have to be mentally and physically prepared for everything that might come on your way.
What currency should I bring?
We advise you to bring US dollars/British pounds/Euros to pay for your visa, trip cost, and other expenses. Almost all the major currencies are usually accepted. But, it is always better to travel with US dollars.
What essential documents/items do I need to bring along with me?
You must bring a valid passport, a copy of your travel insurance, cash, necessary tickets, emergency contact numbers of insurance and family members and the required medications you will/might need.
Are your staffs fully insured?
Yes! Our guides, cooks, Sherpas, and porters are fully equipped and insured as well. They are all experienced and have adequate knowledge about trekking. You will surely have a great time with them.
Can I extend the period of trek?
The itinerary that we provide you is a type of guideline and a standard pattern only. So, the schedule can be modified according to your time and requirements. We provide both types of trekking, tea house, and camping.
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Mukti was recommended by a friend and gave us a trip of a lifetime. We only had 5 days and we wanted a private trek! Ram Giri trekking leader was an incredible guide and his brother, Guna Giri was our porter. I would advise anyone to use the help of experienced guides and travel experts to plan their trip to Nepal! They will save you time and energy and get you up the mountain and back. From the smallest details to the best accommodations, this is the only way to see the largest mountains in the world.
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We went with Himalyas on Foot for the Poon Hill trek and we had amazing time. Our guide Bidur, who is so friendly are a great guy with a lot of knowledge and and we highley recomend him for this trek.
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We are a family of four, with two small kids aged 4 and 7. Mukti helped us organize a fantastic family friendly, extremely safe and enjoyable 5-day trek in the Annapurna range. Mukti is also very conscious of the welfare of his employees and ensures that they are not overburdened with luggage. Mukti arranged all our domestic flights, airport transfers, guides and was extremely responsive on both email and whatsapp - which was re-assuring as it was our first long hike with our children. Our guide (Mr. Ram Giri) was one of the best in the country, his English was impeccable and he speaks Italian and Japanese proficiently too. He was very friendly, knowledgeable and ready to answer any questions with a big smile. We also had 2 porters and an extra porter/guide to help us with our kids -which proved valuable with our youngest one who needed an extra hand at the higher altitudes (2800m). The porters and the guides were warm, friendly and caring and quickly became friendly with the children and encouraged them along the way, chatting and helping them and us throughout the hike (which was well paced and very manageable, at about 4 hours of hiking everyday, with delicious meals and chai breaks every hour and a half). The route was stunning, with breathtaking views and Mukti and Ram had arranged for the most comfortable accommodation available, the food was always delicious and we spent our evenings sitting by the fire-place in the common room reading with our kids, sipping chai. Overall the trip far exceeded our expectations and we cant wait to go on our next hike with Mukti and Ram Giri!
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It was my first trekking experience in Nepal with a rather large group of 14 trekkers and I totally love it. The boss - Mukti - assigned two very experience guides, Raj and Ghuna, who took great care of the group and ensured our safety and well-being. Also a big thank you to the great team of porters that lighten our loads. Definitely planning to trek other circuit in Nepal again with HoF. And will definitely ask for Raj and Ghuna to be our guides again.
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A reliable, well experience and hassle free company to appoint as your trekking guide in Nepal. Mukti, the manager is quick to response to your requests and thanks for your generosity. Our trekking guide, Raj is totally the best guide ever. He is not only super experienced with the himalayan treks but also very accommodating, friendly and took well care of our meals and accommodation which is not easy for big group of 14 people. Bigto Raj and Guna the assistant guide. And to the young porters who always greet us with a smiling face, good job. Overall a very happy experience and would definitely recommend.
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