Ghorepani Poon Hill Travel Guide

Ghorepani Poon Hill, also known as Poon Hill, is a popular hiking destination located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is named after the village of Ghorepani, which is located at the base of Poon Hill.

The trek to Poon Hill is a relatively easy trek, and it is a popular choice for people who want to experience trekking in the Himalayas without having to commit to a longer and more challenging trek. The trail is well-maintained and there are teahouses along the way for food and accommodation.

The highlight of the trek is the sunrise view from the top of Poon Hill. From the summit of Poon Hill, trekkers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.

The trek to Poon Hill can be completed in 4-5 days, and it is usually accessed from the town of Nayapul, which is a 1-2 hour drive from Pokhara. The best time to do the trek is from September to November and from March to May when the weather is dry and the skies are clear.

Attractions

• Spectacular sunrise view over the Himalayan range, including Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
• Trekking through beautiful rhododendron forests which are in full bloom from March to May. The bright pink and red flowers add a pop of color to the trail.
• Natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda, a village near Ghorepani, offer a perfect place to relax and soothe your muscles after a long trek.
• An opportunity to learn about the Gurung culture and lifestyle, including their traditional costumes, dances, and music.
• A nature lover's paradise, with picturesque views of rolling hills, terraced farms, and cascading waterfalls.
• Several tea houses offer a comfortable stay and a chance to interact with locals and other trekkers.
• Panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
• Trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill, an adventure in itself, with challenging uphill climbs, steep descents, and narrow trails.
• A chance to spot various wildlife, including langurs, Himalayan Thar, and a variety of bird species.
• An affordable option for trekkers on a budget, with reasonable accommodation and food options.

Weather and Climate 

Ghoreani PoonHill is a popular trekking destination located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The climate and weather of this region vary based on the time of the year. Generally, the best time to visit Ghoreani PoonHill is from September to November, and March to May.

During these months, the weather is usually clear and dry with moderate temperatures, making it an ideal time for trekking. The daytime temperature can range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, while the night temperature can drop down to around 5 degrees Celsius.

During the winter months (December to February), the weather can be very cold and snowfall is common. This period is not recommended for trekking due to the harsh weather conditions.

In the monsoon season (June to August), the weather is very unpredictable, with heavy rain and landslides being common. This period is also not suitable for trekking.

The weather and climate of Ghoreani PoonHill can vary greatly depending on the season, and visitors should plan their trip accordingly. It is always recommended to check the weather forecast before embarking on a trekking journey.

Food and Accommodation

Ghorepani Poon Hill is a popular trekking destination in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The village of Ghorepani is the last stop for trekkers before they head to Poon Hill, which is a popular viewpoint to watch the sunrise over the Annapurna mountain range.

Food: There are plenty of options for food in Ghorepani. You can find local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), momo (dumplings), and thukpa (noodle soup) in most tea houses and restaurants. You can also find Western dishes like pizza, pasta, and pancakes. It is recommended to eat vegetarian food as meat can be difficult to transport and store in mountainous regions.

Accommodation: There are many tea houses and lodges in Ghorepani that offer basic accommodation to trekkers. Most tea houses have shared bathrooms and basic amenities like blankets and pillows. It is recommended to bring your sleeping bag for added comfort. The cost of accommodation varies from $5 to $10 per night depending on the facilities provided.

It is advised to book your accommodation in advance during the peak trekking season (September to November and March to May) as the tea houses can get crowded.

Things to do 

• Trek to Poon Hill: The main attraction of Ghorepani is the trek to Poon Hill. It is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
• Visit the Gurung Museum: The Gurung Museum showcases the history and culture of the Gurung people, one of the main ethnic groups in the area.
• Visit the Annapurna Conservation Area: The Annapurna Conservation Area is a protected region that is home to various species of flora and fauna. You can go on a nature walk or a bird-watching tour in this area.
• Explore the Rhododendron Forest: Ghorepani is famous for its rhododendron forests, which bloom during the spring season. You can take a walk in the forest and enjoy the colorful flowers.
• Experience the local culture: The local people of Ghorepani are known for their warm hospitality and unique culture. You can attend a traditional dance or music performance, or even participate in a cooking class.
• Visit the waterfalls: There are several waterfalls in the area, including the famous Patalen Chhago Waterfall. You can take a refreshing dip in the cool water or simply enjoy the scenic beauty.
• Explore the nearby villages: There are several small villages in the area, each with its own unique charm. You can explore the local markets, taste the local cuisine, and interact with the friendly locals.
• Go on a sunrise trek: The sunrise trek to Poon Hill is a must-do activity in Ghorepani. You can enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunrise over the Himalayas, which is an unforgettable experience.

Packages to reach Poon Hill

• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 5 Days: This trek package includes 5 days of trekking to the Ghorepani Poon Hill region. It includes a visit to Poon Hill, which is famous for its panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trek also passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, and hot springs.
• Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Ghorepani Poon Hill: This trek package is a combination of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It takes around 14 days to complete and is considered a moderate to difficult trek. It includes a visit to the Annapurna Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,130 meters.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Ghandruk Village: This trek package includes a visit to the beautiful Ghandruk village, which is known for its unique Gurung culture and stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. The trek takes around 8 days to complete and includes a visit to Poon Hill, as well as a trek through beautiful rhododendron forests.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari: This trek package includes a visit to the Chitwan National Park, which is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The trek takes around 10 days to complete and includes a visit to Poon Hill, as well as a jungle safari in the Chitwan National Park.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Upper Mustang: This trek package is a combination of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the Upper Mustang Trek. It takes around 21 days to complete and is considered a difficult trek. It includes a visit to the Upper Mustang region, which is known for its unique Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes. The trek also passes through the beautiful rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages.