Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara | 4-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek

Tucked into the vibrant heart of Nepal’s Annapurna region, Poon Hill stands as one of the most accessible yet stunning viewpoints in the entire Himalayas. Rising to an altitude of 3,210 meters, it offers sweeping sunrise views over some of the world’s most iconic peaks - Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and more. But what truly sets this trek apart is its accessibility and brevity.

If you’re based in Pokhara and looking for a short, refreshing Himalayan escape without the high-altitude strain or long time commitment, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek is the perfect choice.

Why Trek to Poon Hill from Pokhara?

While many treks in Nepal require lengthy travel and acclimatization, Poon Hill offers a condensed trekking experience packed with cultural richness, lush forests, and epic mountain vistas - all achievable in just 4 days.

Here’s why it’s a top pick for trekkers starting from Pokhara:

Quick access: The trailhead is only a couple of hours' drive from Pokhara.
Low to moderate altitude: No need for lengthy acclimatization.
Unmatched sunrise views: Poon Hill is one of the most scenic viewpoints in Nepal.
Cultural immersion: The route winds through Gurung and Magar villages, offering insights into rural Himalayan life.
Ideal for beginners and families: It's challenging enough to be rewarding but doesn’t require prior trekking experience.

4-Day Itinerary: Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara

Organized by Best Heritage Tour, this trek balances activity, scenery, and culture with logistical ease. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:

Day 01: Pokhara to Birethanti Drive - Trek to Ulleri Village (1,950 m)

Drive: 2 hours | Hike: 5 hours

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Birethanti, a charming village at the gateway to the Annapurna region. From here, the trail begins gently, crossing suspension bridges over rivers and weaving through green hills. As you approach Ulleri, you’ll face a series of stone staircases - over 3,000 steps - but they’re worth every drop of sweat. The day ends in Ulleri Village, where cozy teahouses and mountain views welcome you.

Highlights:

Drive along the Modi Khola River
First glimpses of Annapurna South
Overnight stay in a peaceful hilltop village

Day 02: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874 m)

Trek: 6-7 hours

This day’s trek takes you deeper into the Annapurna Conservation Area. You’ll pass through thick rhododendron forests - especially colorful in spring - and climb gradually through Banthanti and Nangethanti before reaching the popular village of Ghorepani.

Located at nearly 2,900 meters, Ghorepani is perched perfectly below Poon Hill and offers expansive views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the Annapurna range.

Highlights:

Breathtaking rhododendron forests
Views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks
Rest in a traditional mountain teahouse

Day 03: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) - Trek to Tadapani (2,721 m)

Hike: 1.5 hrs early morning | Trek: 5-6 hrs

Wake before sunrise for the highlight of the entire trek: the hike to Poon Hill. As the first rays of sun strike the Himalayas, the snowy giants are bathed in golden light - an awe-inspiring moment you’ll never forget. After soaking in the scenery and snapping some unforgettable photos, return to Ghorepani for breakfast.

You’ll then continue your journey toward Tadapani, passing through mossy forests, wildflowers, and scenic ridgelines. This segment is quieter and more tranquil, giving you time to reflect on the beauty of the mountains.

Highlights:

World-famous Himalayan sunrise from Poon Hill
Dense oak and rhododendron forests
Peaceful overnight stay in Tadapani

Day 04: Trek to Ghandruk (1,951 m) - Drive to Pokhara

Trek: 3 hrs | Drive: 3-4 hrs

Your final trekking day descends gently through forests and terraced fields to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village known for its stone houses and rich cultural heritage. Here, you’ll get panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) up close.

After exploring the village and possibly enjoying a warm Gurung meal, you’ll drive back to Pokhara - a journey filled with memories, photos, and a new appreciation for the Himalayas.

Highlights:

Explore traditional Gurung culture in Ghandruk
Final Himalayan panoramas
Return to Pokhara by comfortable private transport

What Makes Poon Hill Special?

Perfect elevation: At just over 3,000 meters, it’s high enough for dramatic views without extreme altitude risk.
Panoramic range: The lookout offers a 180° sweep of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Himachuli, and Nilgiri.
Photographer’s dream: Sunrise paints the mountains in hues of gold, pink, and purple.
Popular but not overcrowded: Especially with this short version, you get the experience without long crowds on trail.

Best Time to Do the Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara

Autumn (Sept-Nov): Crystal-clear skies, perfect temperatures, and stunning mountain views.
Spring (March-May): Rhododendron forests are in full bloom—vibrant and colorful.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Fewer crowds, clear mornings, and snow-capped beauty (though chilly).
Monsoon (June-Aug): Best avoided due to slippery trails and poor visibility.

What to Pack for the Short Trek

Light trekking boots
Warm layers (it gets chilly at night)
Rain jacket (if trekking in spring/summer)
Trekking poles (optional but helpful for descents)
Water bottle + purification tablets
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Camera or phone with good storage!

Accommodation & Meals

All along the trail, you’ll stay in local teahouses - family-run lodges that offer basic but cozy rooms and traditional Nepali meals. Expect to enjoy:

Dal Bhat (rice with lentils and veggies)
Tibetan bread
Local curries
Hot tea, coffee, and occasional bakery items in Ghorepani or Ghandruk

Responsible Trekking with Best Heritage Tour

When you trek with Best Heritage Tour, you're choosing:

Expert local guides with decades of experience
Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
Eco-conscious travel policies
Personalized service from booking to drop-off
Flexible itineraries based on your comfort and time

As a local operator with deep ties to the communities in Ghorepani, Ghandruk, and beyond, we ensure your trip is meaningful, ethical, and filled with warm Nepali hospitality.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Himalayan Escape Awaits

The Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara offers an unbeatable blend of breathtaking mountain views, vibrant cultural experiences, and an accessible trekking itinerary ideal for all levels. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer looking for a short Himalayan getaway, this trek promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to Trek? Let Best Heritage Tour Guide You

Don’t just dream about the Himalayas - come walk among them. The Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara is the perfect short adventure to disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and create unforgettable memories.

Whether you're solo, with friends, or traveling as a couple, this 4-day journey delivers everything a Himalayan trek should - without the altitude stress or long commitment.

Book your Ghorepani Poon Hill Short Trek today:

Visit: www.bestheritagetour.com

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com

Phone/WhatsApp: +977-9851149197

Office Location: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu Nepal