Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – The Ideal Introduction to Nepal Teahouse Treks

The scenic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short hikes in Nepal and for good reason! Nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region, this rewarding trek offers stunning mountain views, charming villages, and an authentic Nepali teahouse experience.

As an avid travel writer and hiker, I recently conquered this trek and want to share everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide. Read on to see why Ghorepani Poon Hill deserves a spot on your Nepal bucket list!

The Best Time of Year for this Trek

Due to the high elevation of Poon Hill (3210m), the clearest skies and most pleasant weather for trekking are found in:

Spring (March to May)

– Warm days with cool nights
– Clear skies before monsoon season
– Rhododendron forests are blooming

Autumn (October to December)

– Stable weather with excellent visibility
– No rainfall to obstruct views
– Busier trail during peak season

Winters (December to February)

– Possible to trek but expect very cold temps
– Higher chance of snowfall at higher elevations
– Fewer teahouses open on the trail

Avoid Monsoon Season (June to September)

– Heavy rainfall likely leading to poor views
– High risk of landslides on steep sections
– Leeches present in wet forests

Itinerary for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek:

Day 1 – Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga

In the morning, drive by private transport or taxi from Pokhara to Nayapul which takes around 1 hour. Nayapul at 1070m is the starting point of the trek. From here, hike along the Modi Khola river to the village of Tikhedhunga (1540m). The total trekking time today is around 3-4 hours. Overnight stay at a teahouse guesthouse in Tikhedhunga.

Day 2 – Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

After breakfast, begin the uphill trek to Ghorepani which is at an altitude of 2860m. The trail ascends quite steeply and passes through the villages of Banthanti and Deurali. You’ll also get glimpses of the mighty Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre mountains. The total hiking time is 5-6 hours. Spend the night at Ghorepani.

Day 3 – Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani

Wake up very early in the morning, before sunrise to make the 1 hour uphill hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill viewpoint (3210m). Enjoy unobstructed views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks during sunrise. After spending an hour there, hike back down to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then continue the trek to Tadapani for the night. The total trekking time is 6-7 hours.

Day 4 – Tadapani to Ghandruk

From Tadapani, descend steeply through rhododendron and oak forests to Kimrong Khola river. The trail then leads gently uphill to the Gurung village of Ghandruk at 1940m. Ghandruk is a scenic village with amazing closeup views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre mountains. Spend the night here after 5-6 hours of trekking.

Day 5 – Ghandruk to Nayapul, drive back to Pokhara

On the last day, hike downhill from Ghandruk to Syauli Bazaar in about 2 hours and then continue downhill to Birethanti village in another hour. From here, walk alongside the Modi Khola river until you reach Nayapul to complete the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. Spend an hour at Nayapul before driving back to Pokhara by private transport.

Permits Needed for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

You will need these entry permits and fees:

– TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

– Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

– National Park Fee

Your guide will arrange the permits. Carry them throughout the trek. The fees help support conservation efforts.

Accommodation on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Route

The trail has a number of excellent teahouse lodges and homestays in settlements like Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani and Ghandruk.

Most offer simple rooms with shared bathrooms. The meals at these family-run teahouses are freshly prepared and delicious.

Book lodges in advance during peak seasons. Upper lodges at Ghorepani offer sunrise views.

Key Tips for an Epic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Follow these tips to have a safe and memorable trek:

– Get permits and travel insurance before setting off

– Pack light with essential gear only

– Have a flexible itinerary for weather changes

– Drink only purified water on the trail

– Walk slowly, steady to prevent altitude sickness

– Respect local culture and environment

– Fly to Pokhara and hire a taxi to reach the trailhead at Nayapul

– Trek during Spring (March-May) or Autumn (October-November) for best weather

– Get TIMS permit and Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit

– Book teahouse lodges in advance during peak season

– Hire a guide for easy navigation and porter support

– Carry enough water, snacks and walking poles for uphill climbs

Ready for Breathtaking Himalayan Views?

With sweeping mountain vistas and charming cultural encounters, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the perfect introduction to trekking in Nepal. Let me know if you need any other details to start planning this incredible Himalayan adventure!