The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular circuit trail located in the lower Annapurna region. The highlight of this trek is the stunning viewpoint at Poon Hill, renowned for […]
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a popular circuit trail located in the lower Annapurna region. The highlight of this trek is the stunning viewpoint at Poon Hill, renowned for its breathtaking sunrise over the snow-capped peaks. As the sun rises, the mountains shift in color from grey to pink to brilliant white, creating an unforgettable experience. This trek is relatively easy and can be undertaken year-round, though autumn and spring offer the most picturesque scenery. It’s ideal for trekkers of all levels seeking a short adventure in the Himalayas combined with a rich cultural experience.
The journey begins at Nayapul, a 90-minute drive from Pokhara. The trail winds through terraced rice fields, ascends steeply to Ulleri, and traverses scenic rhododendron forests, culminating in the iconic sunrise view from Poon Hill. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy lush forests of rhododendron and oak, charming Gurung and Magar villages, cascading waterfalls, and terraced fields while gaining insights into the local culture and way of life.
Standing at an altitude of 3,210 meters, Poon Hill provides panoramic views of towering peaks such as Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,997m), Annapurna South, Himchuli, and other neighboring mountains. The trek also includes a visit to Ghandruk village, home to the Gurung community, famed for their legacy as Gurkha soldiers during World War II. Surrounded by terraced farmlands, this village offers a unique glimpse into the Gurung culture, featuring distinct language, traditions, attire, and rituals, enriching the trekking experience with vibrant cultural diversity.
This trek is an easy route, perfect for walking enthusiasts who can comfortably walk 4 to 6 hours a day while carrying a light daypack. It’s beneficial to engage in regular exercise and jogging for a few weeks before the trip to boost strength and stamina. While previous hiking experience is helpful, no technical skills are necessary. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart, lung, epilepsy, or blood disorders, please inform Wilderness Excursion prior to booking. Additionally, we recommend consulting with your doctor(s) before embarking on the trek.
Poon Hill is the highest point on the Ghorepani Trek, standing at an altitude of 3,210 meters above sea level. It serves as the destination for the early morning side trip, offering stunning views during the trek.
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to April) are considered the best seasons for trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill. During these months, the weather is sunny and warm, offering breathtaking views. For those looking to avoid crowds and experience a quieter connection with nature, winter (December to February) is also a great option. While it remains warm during the daytime, mornings and nights can get quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 0 to -5°C at Ghorepani Poon Hill. Weather conditions in the Himalayas are influenced by the Indian Ocean. Trekking in the summer or monsoon season (June to August) can be challenging due to rain, but for keen botanists, the summer trek offers a chance to explore diverse plant life.
Poon Hill is one of the best viewpoints in Nepal, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain ranges. From Hiunchuli to Annapurna South and the towering Annapurna I (8,097m/26,566ft), you can witness the majestic peaks of Gangapurna, Khangsar Kang, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, and more.
