If you are looking for the most rewarding "bang for your buck" trek in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is likely at the top of your list. It is short, relatively easy, and offers a sunrise view over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges that rivals even the most difficult high-altitude expeditions.
However, as we move into 2026, many travelers are asking: What is the actual price of this adventure? With new guide regulations and shifting logistics, budgeting correctly is key to a stress-free trip. At Best Heritage Tour, we believe in total price transparency. Here is your definitive guide to the Poon Hill Trek cost and our recommended 3-day high-impact itinerary.
1. Quick Cost Summary (Per Person)
For those planning a 3-day journey from Pokhara, here is the essential math. We have broken this down based on standard 2026 rates.
|
Expense Item |
Cost (USD) |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|
|
Accommodation + Meals |
$35 - $45 / day |
Total $105 for 3 days (Includes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner). |
|
Licensed Guide |
$28 - $35 / day |
Total $84 (Mandatory for safety and navigation). |
|
Permits (ACAP & TIMS) |
$50 - $55 |
Total for both required permits. |
|
Transportation |
$60 - $80 |
Private Jeep/Transport (Pokhara to Trailhead & back). |
|
Porter (Optional) |
$22 - $25 / day |
Total $66 (Highly recommended for families/seniors). |
Estimated Total (without Porter): Minimum 299 USD
Estimated Total (with Porter): $365 USD
Note: Best Heritage Tour offers an inclusive Poon Hill Trek package at just USD 290* (without Porter and other)
2. Deep Dive: Where Does the Money Go?
Accommodation & Meals
On the Poon Hill route, you stay in "teahouses" - charming mountain lodges run by local families.
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The Food: This budget covers three hearty meals. We recommend Dal Bhat (the traditional power meal) for lunch and dinner. It’s nutritious, filling, and usually comes with free refills!
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The Stay: Teahouse rooms are generally twin-sharing with basic blankets.
Licensed Guides & Porters
As of 2023, the Nepal government requires trekkers in the Annapurna region to be accompanied by a licensed guide.
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Why a Guide? Beyond navigation, our guides at Best Heritage Tour act as cultural bridges, explaining the history of the Magar and Gurung villages you pass through.
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Why a Porter? If you want to focus on photography and the scenery rather than the weight on your back, a porter is a fantastic investment. One porter can usually carry the gear for two trekkers.
Permits and Logistics
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Permits (50): This covers the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. This money goes directly toward maintaining the trails and protecting the local environment.
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Transport (60): This includes the drive from Pokhara to the start of the trail at Ulleri and the return journey from Ghandruk. Using a private vehicle saves you nearly a full day of walking on dusty roads.
3. The Poon Hill 3-Day Itinerary (Best for 2026)
This itinerary is designed for travelers who are short on time but want the full Himalayan experience.
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara (820m) to Ulleri & Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m)
We skip the 3,000+ stone steps of Tikhedhunga by driving directly to Ulleri. From there, we hike through ancient rhododendron forests. The air gets cooler, and the anticipation builds as we reach the bustling village of Ghorepani.
Day 2: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
The "Big Moment." We hike up to the Poon Hill viewpoint at 4:30 AM. As the sun rises, the peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m) turn from purple to gold. After breakfast back in Ghorepani, we trek through deep forests to Tadapani, which offers stunning "eye-level" views of Machhapuchhre.
Day 3: Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m) & Drive back to Pokhara (820m)
We descend to Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful ethnic Gurung villages in Nepal. Explore the local museum and enjoy a final mountain lunch before hopping into our private transport for the 3-hour drive back to the comforts of Pokhara.
4. When is the Best Time for this Budget?
To get the most value for your money, timing is crucial:
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Peak Season (Oct-Nov & Mar-May): Best weather, but prices for extras like Wi-Fi or hot showers may be non-negotiable because teahouses are full.
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Off-Season (Dec-Feb): You can often find better deals on accommodation, and the mountains are covered in pristine snow.
Conclusion: Plan Your Poon Hill Trek with Experts
The Poon Hill Trek is more than just a walk; it’s an introduction to the soul of the Himalayas. While the costs are manageable, the logistical details - permits, transport, and finding a reliable guide - can be overwhelming if you try to do it all alone.
At Best Heritage Tour, we specialize in making these mountains accessible. We handle all the paperwork and transport included in the costs above, ensuring that your only job is to enjoy the view.
Ready to see the sunrise from 3,210 meters?
Contact Best Heritage Tour today to book your 2026 Poon Hill Trek.
WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 18th December, 2025
