Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking-11 Days
Explore the renowned Annapurna region on this teahouse trek through the Himalayas. Visit Buddhist stupas, trek through untouched forests, and take in the full beauty of Nepal.
Nepal
11 Days
Moderate
3210
All Round The year
Hotel & Tea House
Included
Kathmandu
USD 1140
Trip Highlights
- Walk through beautiful rhododendron forests and terraced farmlands as you make your way along peaceful mountain trails.
- Watch the first light of day touch the snow-capped Himalayas from Poon Hill- a truly unforgettable sunrise view.
- Enjoy panoramic sights of the majestic Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges.
- Experience the rich traditions and daily life of the Gurung people in the picturesque village of Ghandruk.
- Take in stunning mountain scenery without the challenges of trekking at very high altitudes.
- Relax in cozy teahouses that offer warm hospitality and a chance to connect with fellow trekkers along the route.
Trip Overview
Starting and ending in Pokhara, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. In spring, the trails come alive with colorful blossoms, while winter coats the landscape in snow, turning it into a magical alpine setting.
This trek takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region, balancing serene valleys with steady ascents that reward you at every step. Picture walking through peaceful valleys dotted with terraced farmland, thick forests draped in moss, and lively rhododendron trees bursting with color.
Springtime brings these rhododendron forests to life- creating a tunnel of bright pinks, reds, and whites above your trail. As you climb higher, snow-covered Himalayan peaks begin to appear more frequently, hinting at the incredible views that lie ahead.
The highlight of the journey is reaching Poon Hill, where you’re greeted with wide, sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Watching the sun rise over the mountains is a moment that leaves a lasting impression, with golden light dancing across the peaks.
Ideal for trekkers who want a shorter yet fulfilling Himalayan experience, this route can be completed within a week. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, cross clear rivers, and walk through quiet valleys.
The trail involves a mix of ups and downs, but it’s considered relatively easy- perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a scenic and enjoyable adventure in Nepal’s mountains.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m /4,264 ft)
- Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
- Day 3: Kathmandu to Birethanthi (1,060 m/3,362 ft): 8-9 hrs Drive
- Day 4: Birethanthi to Ulleri (1,960 m/6,430 ft): 5 hrs
- Day 5: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860 m/9,383 ft): 5 hrs
- Day 6: Ghorepani To Tadapani with Poonhill (2,650 m/8,860 ft): 6-7 hrs
- Day 7: Tadapani To Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,360 ft): 3-4 hrs
- Day 8: Ghandurk to Pokhara (884 m/2,900 ft): 4 hrs walk, 1 hr 30 m Drive
- Day 9: Rest Day in Pokhara (884 m/2,900 ft)
- Day 10: Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Day 11: Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m /4,264 ft)
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will be there to greet you with a warm welcome. From the airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle and explore surroundings nearby.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m /4,264 ft)
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
After breakfast, you will head towards Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this ancient stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Believed to have been self-created, it holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, surrounded by prayer flags, shrines, and playful monkeys that give the site its nickname.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Birethanthi (1,060 m/3,362 ft): 8-9 hrs Drive
After breakfast, we drive to Birethanti, which takes about 9 hours by private transportation. Birethanti serves as the entrance point to the Annapurna region. The journey after Pokhara is a bit bumpy, passing through charming villages, offering magnificent views and a gushing river. Before reaching our final destination, we need to trek for about 30 minutes to Birethanti, where we will stay overnight.
Max Altitude :
Birethanthi (1,060 m/3,362 ft)
Trip Duration :
8-9 hrs Drive
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Birethanthi
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 4: Birethanthi to Ulleri (1,960 m/6,430 ft): 5 hrs
After breakfast, the trek to Ulleri begins through hillside villages, subtropical valley forests, and rice paddies along the bank of the Burundi River. In the beginning, the trail is gradual, but after crossing rising waterfalls and the Burundi Khola, it ascends steeply with switchbacks until reaching Ulleri. Ulleri lies at the top of a hill, inhabited by the Magar people, and offers a spectacular valley view with glimpses of snow-covered mountains. You will reach the village in the late afternoon for a well-deserved overnight stay.
Max Altitude :
Ulleri (1,960 m/6,430 ft)
Trip Duration :
5 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
Overnight :
Ulleri
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 5: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860 m/9,383 ft): 5 hrs
After breakfast, begin trekking to Ghorepani, passing through dense, rainy forests, stunning waterfalls, and rushing streams. The trail gradually climbs and the entire journey is mostly inside the forest, where there is a chance to encounter wildlife. Ghorepani lies on top of a ridge near the Kali Gandaki River and offers splendid views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri North, Nilgiri South and Center, Butterfly Peak, and Annapurna South from its vantage point. After a beautiful day of trekking, we reach Ghorepani for an overnight stay.
Max Altitude :
Ghorepani (2,860 m/9,383 ft)
Trip Duration :
5 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Ghorepani
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 6: Ghorepani To Tadapani with Poonhill (2,650 m/8,860 ft): 6-7 hrs
We start trekking early in the morning before sunrise. It takes about 1 hour to reach Poon Hill (3,210 m), the best spot to capture panoramic views of more than 20 peaks, including Mt. Dhaulagiri. After enjoying the sunrise, we descend back to Ghorepani, then continue towards Tadapani through dense rhododendron forests, deep gorges, waterfalls, and mesmerizing mountain views framed by the forest canopy. Tadapani lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area and is surrounded by rhododendron forests. It offers stunning views of Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Fishtail. After a day of ascents and descents, we stay overnight at Tadapani.
Max Altitude :
Poonhill (2,650 m/8,860 ft)
Trip Duration :
6-7 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Poonhill
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 7: Tadapani To Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,360 ft): 3-4 hrs
After breakfast, we begin a gradual descent through a dark rhododendron forest to Ghandruk. During spring, this dense forest transforms into a vibrant garden with blooming rhododendron trees. Along the way, you will see waterfalls, streams, and landscapes shaped by altitude variation. From various vantage points, enjoy stunning views of Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Himchuli. After a scenic descent, we reach Ghandruk, the second-largest Gurung settlement in Nepal. It is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching. In the evening, we explore the traditional Gurung Museum, handicraft center, and the old Gurung village before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Max Altitude :
Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,360 ft)
Trip Duration :
3-4 hrs
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight :
Ghandruk
Accomodation :
Teahouse
Day 8: Ghandurk to Pokhara (884 m/2,900 ft): 4 hrs walk, 1 hr 30 m Drive
After breakfast, we descend all the way to Syaulibazar along a stone-slab trail, passing isolated villages and terraced farms. Following the Modi Khola River, we reach Nayapul, where a private vehicle will drive us back to Pokhara for an overnight stay.
Max Altitude :
Pokhara (884 m/2,900 ft)
Trip Duration :
4 hrs walk, 1 hr 30 m Drive
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight :
Pokhara
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 9: Rest Day in Pokhara (884 m/2,900 ft)
Today is a free day to explore the diverse city of Pokhara – known for its lakes, hidden caves, and peaceful pagodas. After a relaxed day of touring around Pokhara, we stay overnight.
Max Altitude :
Pokhara (884 m/2,900 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Overnight :
Pokhara
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 10: Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we travel back to Kathmandu. You’ll have the rest of the day free to explore the neighborhood or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, Ama Adventure will host a farewell dinner to celebrate the success of our trip. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m /4,264 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Overnight :
Kathmandu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 11: Departure
Today is the final day of our journey. An Ama Adventure representative will drop you at the airport. We wish you a safe journey and hope to see you on your next adventure.
Max Altitude :
Kathmandu (1,300 m /4,264 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast
Important Notes
Please be informed that ongoing road construction along the Prithvi Highway, the main route from Kathmandu to Pokhara, has led to increased traffic and dust. A journey that usually takes about 6 to 7 hours may now take up to 8 or 9 hours. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this temporary inconvenience.
Our trekking itineraries are carefully planned, but adjustments may be necessary due to unpredictable situations beyond our control. These may include flight delays or cancellations, weather changes, natural events, new government regulations, political activities, or health-related issues. In such cases, we will do our best to find suitable alternatives to keep your trip running as smoothly as possible. Your cooperation and flexibility are greatly appreciated.
We recommend that you arrive in Nepal at least one day before your trek begins. This gives you time to rest, get any last-minute gear, and prepare for your journey. When booking your international flights, it’s a good idea to allow for extra days in Nepal before and after your trek. This helps accommodate any changes in domestic flights, especially in the mountains, where weather conditions can be unpredictable.
You’re also welcome to customize your trip. Ama Adventure offers a variety of add-ons such as sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and Pokhara, day hikes, or adventure activities like paragliding, jungle safaris, and more. Let us know your preferences, we’ll help you create a memorable journey.
Gallery
What is included
Accommodation
- 3 nights in a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin/double-sharing basis with breakfast
- 1 night in a 4-star hotel in Pokhara on a twin/double-sharing basis with breakfast
- 4 nights twin-sharing accommodation at teahouses/guesthouses during the trek
Meals & Drinking Water
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
- One hot drink per meal and seasonal fruits
- Welcome and farewell dinner on the final night in Nepal
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek (via water filter or purification tablets)
Transportation
- All airport transfers (international & domestic) by private tourist vehicle
- Tourist bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Private vehicle from Pokhara to Birethanti (starting point of the trek)
- Private vehicle from Syauli Bazaar to Pokhara (after trek)
Guide & Support Staff
- Licensed, experienced, English-speaking trekking guide (first-aid trained)
- Assistant guide/trainee guide for groups of more than 7 people
- Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- All staff’s wages, accommodation, meals, insurance, gear, and medication
Permits & Entry Fees
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- All necessary paperwork and government taxes
Health & Safety
- Comprehensive first aid kit
- Daily health checks with a pulse oximeter to monitor altitude-related symptoms
Extras & Souvenirs
- Trekking map, duffel kit bag, sun hat, Buff (neck gaiter), and a trip completion certificate
- First aid medical kit available with the guide
- Duffel bag and sun hat provided for use during the trek (to be returned after the trip)
Administrative
- All government taxes and administrative fees
What is Excluded
- Meals (lunch and dinner) while in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- International airfare and airport departure taxes
- Travel insurance that includes emergency rescue and high-altitude evacuation
- Personal expenses on drinks such as bottled water, soft drinks, or boiled water along the trek
- Gratitutes for trekking staff and drivers (optional but appreciated)
- Trekking clothing, boots, and personal gear
- Any additional costs not mentioned under the “Price Includes” section
- Nepal tourist visa
Trip Departure
Ama Adventure arranges both solo and group travel, ensuring amazing experiences with people from all over the world. Before departure, we reconfirm the number of participants in your group. We guarantee all group departure dates even if there’s only one person signed up for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking. This ensures that your adventure is confirmed regardless of group size.
Difficulty Level
This trek is suitable for individuals with above-average physical fitness. While no special technical skills are required, beginners are welcome. This trekking doesn’t lead you to high altitude but within a short period of time, there will be significant change in weather due to the altitude variation.
Dates & Price
We ensure departures on all published dates. If these dates don’t align with your plans, we’re happy to assist in setting a customized date. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group seeking private trips, you can tailor-make your adventure. Reach out to us for pricing details or any other queries.
Meals
Throughout our trek, you’ll savor authentic Nepalese dishes alongside international cuisines such as Tibetan, Continental, Italian, and Indian. Breakfast and dinner will be served at the tea houses or lodge menus where we stay overnight, while lunches will be provided en route to our next destination. During the trek, all meals are included. In Kathmandu, breakfast as well as a welcome dinner is provided, and in Pokhara, farewell dinner will be arranged for our guests.
Accommodation
We’ll be accommodated at a Standard Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and the best available teahouses during our trek. Accommodations are based on twin sharing. For those requesting a single room, there will be an additional cost of USD 150. While we aim for rooms with attached washrooms, please note that some tea houses may only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and lower-elevation trekking areas, but availability might be limited at higher elevations.
Weather Information
The best times to trek in the Annapurna region are from September to November and again from February to April.
In September, the skies usually begin to clear after the monsoon, though occasional rain is still possible. By November, the weather is cooler and more stable, with a chance of snowfall at higher elevations. Daytime temperatures at the beginning of the trek average around 70°F (21°C), while in places like Ghorepani- the highest overnight stop- they can drop to the high 50s°F (around 14°C). Night temperatures near the top of the trail can fall to freezing, especially in late autumn.
If you’re trekking in early February, you may encounter snow in some sections. By April, the weather warms up, and the trails come alive with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers.
Important Notes
Your safety is always our first priority while traveling with Ama Adventure. Please be noted that;
Your trip leader has the authority to change all itineraries based on local conditions and judgments of your leader.
We also have the right to modify the itinerary due to medical considerations, unexpected weather conditions, and Natural Disasters, etc.
Our leader crew always tries to provide high-quality services and ensure that the trip runs according to plan but we heartily request to be prepared and to be flexible if needed.
Packing List
Here’s a suggested packing list to help you get ready for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking -11 Days. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter.
We provide a 75-liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep.
General
- Four-season sleeping bag (rated to 0°C or lower)
- Sleeping bag liner
- Insulated down jacket
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap (Complimentary Ama Adventure cap included)
- Warm knitted hat or beanie
- Scarf or neck gaiter (Buff recommended)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- UV-protection sunglasses
Torso
- Moisture-wicking base layers – lightweight for warmer seasons, thermal for colder months
- Two short-sleeve and two long-sleeve trekking shirts made of quick-dry technical fabric
- Windproof and waterproof outer shell or jacket
- Warm fleece jacket or pullover for added insulation
Lower Body
- Thermal base layers – lightweight for warm months, heavier for cold conditions
- Two pairs of durable hiking pants
- Comfortable pants for relaxing inside teahouses
- Waterproof and windproof shell pants for protection against rain and wind
- One pair of hiking shorts (ideal for lower altitudes and warm days)
Hands
- Liner gloves made of wool or technical fabric for warmth and flexibility
- Insulated outer gloves with a hard shell – ideal for wind and cold at higher altitudes
Feet
- Warm socks made of wool or technical fabric
- Hiking socks (several pairs recommended)
- Optional liner socks (e.g., silk) for added comfort and blister prevention
- Waterproof trekking/hiking boots – well broken-in before the trek
- Ice Cleats or Micro Spikes (recommended from November to March for icy trails)
- Comfortable casual shoes or sandals for teahouse use
- Gaiters – lightweight for dust or heavier ones for snow in cold months
Undergarments
Note: Laundry opportunities are limited, so pack accordingly.
- Quick-drying, moisture-wicking underwear (technical fabric recommended) – adjust quantity based on personal preference
- Sports bras (for women) – supportive and breathable
- Pajamas or comfortable sleepwear for chilly nights in the mountains
First Aid Kits and Medications
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Antiseptic or soothing ointment
- Personal medications (for altitude, allergies, pain relief, etc.)
(Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit, but personal supplies are strongly recommended)
Other Essential Items
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Wet Wipes
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier
- Headlamp
- Lightweight towel
- Basic Medicine (Pepto, Bismol, Advil, Imodium)
- Bandana for dust and wind
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, etc.)
- Toilet paper (2 rolls minimum)
- Personal Medicine and Toiletries
- High-protein snacks (nuts, energy/protein bars)
- Waterproof/dry bags to protect documents and valuables
- Ziplock Bag for Toilet papers and other necessary items
Optional
(These can enhance your comfort during the trek and are widely available in Thamel, Kathmandu)
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Camera and mobile phone (for capturing memories)
- Cards, books, or lightweight entertainment
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (especially useful for women at high altitudes)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for stability)
- Whistle (for safety/emergency use)
- Thermos (to carry hot water/tea during cold days)
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent trekking essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.
Documents and Logistics
- Flight Information
- Photocopy of Passport
- Passport size photo for Tims and permit(4)
- Medical Insurance Card
- Airline tickets (leave a copy with our office in Kathmandu)
Dates of Trip
Trip Downloads
Group Discount Prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveler Reviews
Tripadvisor Reviews
MY EXPERIENCE WAS A SUCCESS, TWO TIMES :) - It took me a long time to give birth to my experience with Ama Adventure through a review ! Actually, it's been such a SUCCESS, I had the idea that... read more
Maya A
January 23, 2025 Best choice for trekking in Nepal - We were so lucky to come across Ama Adventure in a Facebook group, and specifically Goma Thapa, who's an experienced, educated, trekking powerhouse woman in charge of Ama trekking expeditions.... read more
Zofia F
December 30, 2023 Extremely happy with ama - Ama booked me with an extordinary well connected and knowledgeable guide for ABC and ebc. Best teahouses, best food, most professional guide and porter. Fluent English speaker and the guide... read more
Montanapants
August 13, 2023
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