Overview
The Poon Hill trek is the perfect introduction to Nepal's mountain world. In just four days you walk through some of Asia's finest rhododendron forests, visit the warm Gurung and Magar villages of the hills, and watch a magnificent sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m), one of the great viewpoints of the Himalaya.
In the pre-dawn stillness, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and the mystical Machapuchare (6,993 m) turn to gold — a sight that, for many travellers, becomes their defining memory of Nepal.
In Ghandruk, a Gurung village of stone-paved lanes and traditional houses, you can feel the mountain culture where the Himalaya and everyday life intertwine. Short yet rich, this popular route distils nature, culture, and spectacular scenery into a single trek.
Highlights
- Sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill (3,210 m)
- Walk through one of Asia's finest rhododendron forests (especially fine in March–April)
- Visit traditional mountain villages — Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk
- Views of the beautiful Machapuchare (Fishtail) from many angles
- A quiet Himalayan morning in Ghandruk
- Ideal for beginners, families, and travellers on a limited schedule
Itinerary
Pokhara → Ghorepani (2,874 m)
Drive by private vehicle from Pokhara to the foot of the Annapurnas, climbing mountain roads past deep gorges and terraced fields straight up to the village of Ghorepani at around 2,900 m. Spend the afternoon strolling the area to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the Dhaulagiri range bathed in evening light. Rest early for tomorrow's Poon Hill sunrise.
Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 m) → Tadapani (2,630 m)
In the pre-dawn darkness, climb to Poon Hill by headlamp. As the eastern sky reddens, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare appear one after another in a sunrise often called the finest in the Himalaya. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then follow ridgelines through rhododendron and oak forest to the quiet forest viewpoint of Tadapani. Trek: approx. 5–6 hrs.
Tadapani → Ghandruk (1,940 m)
After taking in the Himalaya in the clear morning air, descend through forest trails to Ghandruk, the Annapurna region's signature Gurung village. Its stone-paved lanes, traditional stone houses, and bright flowers preserve a living mountain culture. Spend the afternoon exploring the village and the Gurung culture museum. Trek: approx. 3–4 hrs.
Ghandruk → Nayapul → Pokhara
Enjoy the morning view of Annapurna South and Machapuchare spread out before the lodge, then return to Pokhara by private vehicle. A fulfilling finish to a short trek that distils Himalayan vistas, rich forest, and traditional culture. Drive: approx. 3 hrs.
Includes & Excludes
✓ Included
- All teahouse accommodation
- All meals on trek
- Licensed guide (English- or Japanese-speaking)
- Porter (1 per 2 trekkers)
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area) entry fee
- Private vehicle (Pokhara ⇔ trek start / end points)
- First-aid kit
- Government taxes
✕ Excluded
- International & domestic flights
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guide and porter
- Personal drinks & snacks
- Pokhara hotel
Trek Photos
Cancellation Policy
| Notice Period | Refund |
|---|---|
| 60 days or more | 90% refunded |
| 45 – 59 days | 75% refunded |
| 30 – 44 days | 50% refunded |
| 15 – 29 days | 25% refunded |
| 14 days or fewer | No refund |
| No show | No refund |