Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our company representative will be waiting to greet you outside the arrival terminal. Look for a signboard with your full name clearly displayed. Once you meet our team member, you’ll be transferred to your pre-booked hotel in the heart of the city.

Later in the afternoon, we will organize a pre-trip meeting at our office. During this session, you’ll be introduced to your trekking guide or tour leader, and we’ll provide a detailed briefing about the trek, answer any last-minute questions, and assist with any logistical concerns you may have. Please remember to bring along the following items for the meeting:

• Your passport

• Two passport-sized photos

• A copy of your travel insurance policy (if not sent earlier by email)

You will also be required to sign the legal trip agreement and a non-liability disclaimer form.

If time permits after the meeting, we recommend taking a short walk to explore one of Kathmandu's nearby cultural landmarks, such as the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) or Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, head to Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist district, where you can enjoy your first dinner in Nepal. From cozy cafes to authentic Nepali restaurants and international cuisines, Thamel has something for everyone.

Recommended:

• Stay hydrated after your flight.

• Get plenty of rest before your journey begins.

• If you arrive early in the day, consider booking a half-day cultural tour or massage to shake off the jet lag.

After a refreshing breakfast at your hotel, your full-day guided sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley begins. A private vehicle and a knowledgeable, licensed city guide will accompany you throughout the day. You'll explore several of Nepal’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each reflecting the rich spiritual, cultural, and architectural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.

Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple)

Perched atop a green hill overlooking the capital, Swayambhunath is one of the oldest and most revered religious sites in Nepal. The whitewashed dome, gleaming golden spire, and all-seeing Buddha eyes offer a symbolic watch over the valley. The hilltop also offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Kathmandu, making it a perfect place to start the day. Monasteries, prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags fill the air with a spiritual ambiance, while playful monkeys roam freely.

Pashupatinath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Hindu temples in the world. Located along the sacred Bagmati River, the temple complex is an essential pilgrimage site for Hindus, especially during Maha Shivaratri. Although non-Hindus are not permitted inside the main temple, you can still witness the spiritual rituals, cremation ceremonies, and religious devotion from the eastern bank of the river. This site is both emotionally powerful and culturally fascinating.

Boudhanath Stupa

This massive white stupa is one of the largest in Asia and a central hub for Tibetan Buddhist culture in Nepal. Dating back to the 5th century, Boudhanath Stupa features a dome and a gilded tower topped with the Buddha’s eyes in all four directions, symbolizing awareness and compassion. Monks in maroon robes, chanting mantras, spinning prayer wheels, and burning incense create a deeply meditative environment. It’s also a great spot to enjoy Tibetan tea and snacks at rooftop cafés while admiring the view.

Patan Durbar Square (Lalitpur)

Known as the City of Fine Arts, Patan is a marvel of traditional Newari architecture and craftsmanship. Its central square, once the seat of the Malla Kings of Patan, showcases an impressive cluster of temples, statues, courtyards, and palaces. Marvel at intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and the beautiful Krishna Mandir built entirely from stone. The Patan Museum, housed in a part of the ancient palace, offers deep insights into Nepalese art, architecture, and history.

Kathmandu Durbar Square

On your way back to the hotel (especially if staying in Thamel), you'll make a final stop at Kathmandu Durbar Square. This historic square once served as the royal palace for the Malla kings and is filled with centuries-old pagoda-style temples and shrines. Highlights include:

• The Kumari Ghar, home to the Living Goddess Kumari

• The Hanuman Dhoka Palace Museum

• The legendary Kashthamandap, from which the city of Kathmandu derives its name

• Taleju Temple, Jagannath Temple, and the fierce Black Bhairav statue

If you're up for it, we recommend walking back to your hotel through the narrow lanes of Asan Bazaar, the oldest open street market in Kathmandu. This is a perfect way to experience local life, shop for souvenirs, and taste local street food.

Recommended Today:                     

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat — especially for hilltop sites.

• Keep some Nepali rupees handy for entry tickets or snacks.

• Respect local customs at religious sites (no photos inside temples, dress modestly).

Duration: 6–7 hours by drive / 25 minutes by flight
Highlights: Scenic highway drive or mountain flight, lakeside exploration, boating on Phewa Lake, hike to World Peace Pagoda

After breakfast, your trekking guide will meet you at the hotel and accompany you to either the tourist bus park or domestic airport, depending on your chosen mode of travel.

By Road:

The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes approximately 6–7 hours, following the picturesque Prithvi Highway. As you leave the urban sprawl of Kathmandu behind, the journey unfolds into stunning scenery — rolling hills, vibrant terraced farms, and glimpses of snowcapped peaks on clear days. You’ll pass alongside rivers like the Trishuli and Marsyangdi and through charming villages that give you an early taste of Nepali rural life.

By Air:

Alternatively, a 25-minute flight offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the Himalayan range, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and the Annapurna massif. It’s the fastest and most scenic way to reach Pokhara, especially if you're short on time.

Upon Arrival in Pokhara:

Welcome to Pokhara, the serene lake city and gateway to the Annapurna region. On a clear day, the city greets you with panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Lamjung Himal — a stunning backdrop to your upcoming trek.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a boating experience on Phewa Lake, one of Nepal's most iconic and tranquil bodies of water. Glide across the calm surface of the lake, visit the Barahi Temple situated on an island, and admire the reflection of the Himalayas shimmering on the water.

Then, embark on a short but scenic hike to the World Peace Pagoda perched on a hilltop across the lake. The stupa offers a panoramic sunset view over Pokhara Valley, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna Himalaya — the perfect beginning to your trekking adventure.

Optional Upgrades & Notes:

• Private vehicle transfers or domestic flight can be arranged upon request.

• For flights, early morning departures are recommended for the best mountain views.

• The hike to the World Peace Pagoda takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

After a nourishing breakfast in Pokhara, your exciting journey into the Annapurna region begins. You will drive approximately 1.5 hours along scenic country roads, passing through charming rural villages, terraced fields, and lush greenery, until you reach Nayapul — the official starting point of the trek.

From Nayapul, the trek starts with a gentle 15-20 minute walk along the banks of the Modi Khola River, offering refreshing river views and peaceful natural surroundings. Soon, you will arrive at Birethanti (1,015m), a bustling village filled with shops and tea houses where you can take a short break.
The trail then continues through the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola valley, gradually ascending through farmland and traditional villages. As you climb steadily along the hillside, the natural vegetation changes to beautiful forests of oak and rhododendron. You’ll reach Hille (1,495m), a small village with welcoming tea houses, before making a final short ascent to Tikhedunga (1,550m).

Today’s trek is moderate and short, perfect to get your legs ready for the days ahead. In the evening, consider taking a peaceful stroll to the nearby riverside to enjoy the sound of cascading waterfalls and fresh mountain water—a refreshing way to end your day.

This day features one of the more challenging sections of the trek, with the famous 3,500 stone steps climb to Ulleri. The ascent through dense forests is physically rewarding, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Ulleri is a vibrant Magar and Poon village perched at 2,070m, where you can pause for tea and soak in the local culture.
From Ulleri, the trail ascends more gradually, meandering through oak and rhododendron forests rich with flora and fauna. You will pass Banthanthi, a perfect spot for a relaxing tea break, before continuing through these pristine woods to Nangathanti where you will enjoy a fulfilling lunch.
Afterward, the trek continues gently uphill, and after approximately 1.5 hours, you arrive at Ghorepani, nestled amidst the world’s largest rhododendron forest. Ghorepani is the gateway to the iconic Poon Hill and a tranquil mountain village where tea houses offer warm hospitality, local cuisine, and panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Today is one of the most memorable days of your trek. You’ll wake up very early (around 4:30 AM) to embark on a 45-minute to 1-hour hike uphill to Poon Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. This viewpoint offers arguably the finest panoramic vistas in Nepal, where you can see the peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu. The mountain panorama spans about 150 kilometers east to west — an awe-inspiring experience that makes the early wake-up more than worthwhile.
After soaking in the sunrise and photo opportunities, you’ll descend back to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast.
Your trek continues as you climb along scenic ridges lined with pine and rhododendron forests to Deurali (2,960m). After a refreshing lunch at Banthanti, you will take an easier downhill and then a 45-minute ascent to reach the peaceful village of Tadapani. Here, you will be treated to closer and unobstructed views of the Annapurna mountain range, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the alpine environment.

After breakfast with spectacular mountain views in Tadapani, your trail descends steeply through thick rhododendron forests. The path then becomes gentler as you approach Ghandruk, one of the largest and most culturally rich Gurung villages in the Annapurna region.
Ghandruk offers a wonderful blend of nature and culture, with slate-roofed houses, terraced paddy fields, and vibrant local traditions. You can explore Gurung museums, monasteries, and experience the unique hospitality of the local people. The village provides dramatic views of the Annapurna massif, including Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Machhapuchhare, Mt. Gangapurna, and Mt. Hiunchuli.

In the afternoon, a visit to the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office is recommended. Here, you can watch a documentary on the Annapurna region, gaining deeper insight into the ecology, culture, and conservation efforts that protect this magnificent landscape.

Today’s trek leads you gently downhill from Ghandruk, through forests and farmland, following the right bank of the Modi River. This section is among the most scenic and relaxing on the trek, with beautiful river views and peaceful surroundings.
You will arrive at Birethanti, a bustling village where you can rest and celebrate the nearing end of the trek. From here, a 1.5-hour drive returns you to the lakeside city of Pokhara.
Alternatively, for those wanting to skip the last trek section, a direct drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara can be arranged, saving time and providing a more comfortable transfer.

Depending on your preference and schedule, you will take an early morning deluxe tourist bus or an afternoon domestic flight back to Kathmandu.
If time permits and you wish to extend your adventure in Nepal, activities such as white water rafting, Chitwan jungle safari, visit to Lumbini (Birthplace of Lord Buddha), paragliding in Pokhara, or additional sightseeing are excellent options to consider.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, a farewell dinner is arranged at a traditional Nepalese restaurant featuring cultural performances — a perfect way to celebrate the successful completion of your trek and experience Nepali hospitality one last time.

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, Transfer to the selected hotel. In the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey, the farewell dinner will be served in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances

Your memorable adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. Take this time to enjoy a leisurely city stroll, shop for souvenirs, or simply reflect on your journey.
Our Company representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight home.
As you depart, you will have plenty of time to dream and plan your next trip to the majestic Himalayas, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Nepal.