Complete Poon Hill (Ghorepani) Trek guide: 4-6 days, stunning Annapurna & Dhaulagiri sunrise, rhododendron forests, zero altitude risk. Nepal's best beginner trek.
Quick Answer
Poon Hill trek takes 4–6 days to reach 3,210m — panoramic sunrise views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Cost: $300–$600 including ACAP permit ($30). Perfect first Himalayan trek — no altitude risk, suitable for families. Best seasons: October–November and March–May.
Why Poon Hill Is Nepal's Best First Trek
Poon Hill (3210m) is the perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking — a 4-6 day walk from Pokhara to one of Nepal's most famous sunrise viewpoints. At dawn, the panorama reveals Annapurna South (7219m), Annapurna I (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), and Machapuchare (6993m) in a 180-degree sweep of snow and ice. The trek stays below 3300m, meaning zero altitude sickness risk. Trails are well-maintained, teahouses comfortable, and the Gurung villages offer warm hospitality.
Route and Itinerary
Classic 4-5 day route from Nayapul: Day 1: Nayapul to Tikhedhunga (1540m). Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2860m) — the famous 3300+ stone staircase. Day 3: Poon Hill sunrise (3210m, 45-min pre-dawn hike), then trek to Tadapani (2630m). Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1940m) — stunning Gurung village. Day 5: Ghandruk to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara. In spring, the rhododendron forests are a tunnel of red, pink, and white blooms.
Costs and Practical Details
Most affordable quality trek in Nepal. Permits: ACAP ($30) + TIMS ($20) = $50 total. Teahouses: $5-8/night. Meals: $10-15/day. Guide: $20-25/day. Total: $300-$600 for 4-6 days. Works year-round except peak monsoon. Winter brings clearest views and smallest crowds.
Equipment: What You Need (and Don't)
Low-altitude trek so no heavy mountaineering gear needed. Essentials: comfortable trekking boots, layered clothing, rain jacket, sunscreen, headlamp for the pre-dawn summit hike. A light sleeping bag (0°C) is useful. Trekking poles help on the Ulleri staircase. Skip: crampons, expedition jackets, technical gear. Rent anything missing from Pokhara's Lakeside shops ($2-5/day).
Plan Your Poon Hill Trek
SnapTrip recommends Poon Hill for first-time Himalayan trekkers, couples, families, and anyone with 4-6 days who wants guaranteed mountain views without altitude risk. Our Himalayan Trek Planner generates a day-by-day itinerary with real costs and seasonal tips. Use Book a Guide to connect with Pokhara-based guides. Plan free at SnapTrip.
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