Ghorepani Poon Hill Family Trek With Kids - 4 Days
Insight on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids is a thoughtfully designed family adventure in Nepal, created by Best Heritage Tour with children’s comfort and safety as the top priority. By integrating private jeep transfers to higher trailheads like Banthanti, we bypass the steepest, most exhausting sections, ensuring children remain energized and engaged. This route balances manageable hiking durations with world-class vistas of the Annapurna range. Families can enjoy stunning Himalayan views from Poon Hill, experience local culture, and relax in natural surroundings, making it an ideal first Himalayan trek for kids.
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Poon Hill
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Activities: Family Trekking
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Accommodation: Teahouse
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Transportation: Private Jeep
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Maximum altitude: 3,210m / 10,531ft
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Group size: 1-10
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Trip Start / End: Pokhara - Pokhara
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Best Season: Mar-May & Sep-Nov
Key Highlights
- Family-friendly Himalayan trekking itinerary specially designed for children
- Short and easy walking days with a comfortable trekking pace
- Private jeep transportation from Pokhara to Banthanti and return from Jhinu
- Stunning sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m) over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Safe and gradual altitude gain to ensure kids’ comfort and well-being
- Beautiful trekking through rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes
- Authentic cultural experience in traditional Gurung villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong
- Opportunity to experience local mountain lifestyle and hospitality
- Relaxing natural hot spring bath at Jhinu Danda
- Short 4-day itinerary ideal for family holidays in Nepal
Benefits of Booking Poon Hill Family Trek with BHT
- Simple and convenient booking process
- Simple and multiple payment methods (cash, bank transfer, card or payment gateway)
- Complementary Airport pick up and transfer from/to hotel
- Various communication channel for conversation (Email, Facebook, WhatsApp, Viber, WeChat)
- 24/7 phone service at: +977-9851149197/+977-9810043046
- Provide sleeping bag and trekking poles (used) if needed
- Duffle bag provide to Porters
- Free luggage storage during the trek in Best Heritage Tour store
Trip Overview
At Best Heritage Tour, we’ve spent years guiding families through the heart of the Annapurna region, and we’ve learned that the secret to a successful trek with children is balance. Our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids is specifically engineered to remove the "struggle" and keep the "magic." We know that long, steep climbs on the first day can discourage young trekkers, so we’ve replaced the traditional grueling ascent from Nayapul with a comfortable private jeep transfer directly to Banthanti. This smart adjustment allows your family to start walking in the beautiful high-altitude forests immediately, keeping everyone’s energy and spirits high for the journey ahead.
This four-day loop offers a perfect introduction to the Himalayas without the risks of extreme altitude. Reaching a maximum height of 3,210 meters at the famous Poon Hill, your family will witness a 360-degree sunrise over some of the highest peaks on Earth, including Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. The trails are well-maintained and wide, winding through enchanted rhododendron forests that feel like a scene from a fairy tale.
Beyond the scenery, this trek is a wonderful cultural classroom. We spend our nights in cozy, hand-picked teahouses in villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong, where your children can interact with local families and taste the world-famous mountain bakeries. We conclude the adventure with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda, followed by a private drive back to Pokhara. It’s a seamless, safe, and joy-filled journey that turns a challenging mountain trek into an unforgettable family holiday.
What Can One Expect During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids?
1. Breathtaking Mountain Scenery
Expect to see some of the highest mountains on Earth right from your bedroom window. From the moment we reach Ghorepani, the massive peaks of Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri will feel close enough to touch. The views at the Poon Hill sunrise are truly world-class, offering a 360-degree panorama of snow-capped giants that will leave both kids and parents in absolute awe.
2. Family-Friendly Trail Conditions
The paths on this route are well-established, wide, and safe for children. While there are some uphill sections, we have designed the itinerary to include plenty of rest stops. You can expect to walk through beautiful, shaded rhododendron forests and across sturdy suspension bridges. Because we use private jeeps for the steepest parts, the hiking stays manageable and fun for the whole family.
3. Cozy Mountain Teahouse Living
Staying in local teahouses is a highlight of the trek. These are simple but comfortable mountain lodges where your family can gather around a warm dining room stove in the evenings. You can expect clean rooms, warm blankets, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a great way for kids to experience a simpler way of life while still enjoying a comfortable bed.
4. Delicious and Hearty Meals
You don’t have to worry about picky eaters in the mountains! The teahouses serve a great mix of local and international food. You can expect everything from traditional Nepali Dal Bhat (lentil soup and rice) to kid favorites like pancakes, pasta, eggs, and even fresh pizza. In villages like Chhomrong, the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls and apple pies from local bakeries is everywhere.
5. Warm Cultural Encounters
This trek is a wonderful chance for your children to meet the friendly Gurung and Magar people of Nepal. You will pass through traditional villages where life moves at a slower pace. Expect to see local farmers working in terraced fields and children playing in the village squares. Our guides help facilitate these interactions, making the journey an educational and heart-warming cultural experience.
6. Relaxing Natural Hot Springs
One of the most exciting parts of the trip happens near the end at Jhinu Danda. You can expect a short, scenic walk down to the riverbank to find natural pools filled with warm, mineral-rich water. It is the perfect place for the kids to splash around and for parents to relax their muscles after a few days of walking, all while listening to the river.
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara in a private jeep. Instead of starting from the very bottom, we drive deep into the hills to Banthanti, which saves your family from the thousands of steep stone stairs that often tire out young trekkers. The drive itself is a journey through beautiful terraced farmlands and small mountain villages, offering your first glimpses of the snowy peaks ahead.
Once we reach Banthanti, the real magic begins as we step onto the trail. The hike to Ghorepani is a gentle and pleasant walk through ancient rhododendron and oak forests. Since we've skipped the hardest part of the climb, the kids can enjoy spotting birds or looking for monkeys in the trees. We’ll end the day in the lively village of Ghorepani, where the views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges are absolutely stunning right from the teahouse.
We wake up before dawn for the most exciting part of the trip: the walk up to Poon Hill. It’s a short, steady climb under the stars with our flashlights. Watching the sun rise over the massive 8,000-meter peaks of the Himalayas is a memory your family will cherish forever. After taking plenty of photos and enjoying the 360-degree views, we head back down to Ghorepani for a big, warm breakfast.
After packing up, we begin our trek toward the peaceful village of Chuile. The trail follows a beautiful ridge line with mountain views following us the whole way. We’ll walk through deep green forests and cross small mountain streams. The descent to Chuile is quite scenic, and the village itself is a quiet, relaxing spot tucked away in the hills, perfect for a cozy family evening.
Today is a shorter trekking day focused on experiencing the local culture and village life. We leave Chuile and head toward the Kimrong Khola river, crossing a sturdy suspension bridge that the kids always find exciting. From the river, we have a steady walk up to Chhomrong, which is one of the largest and most beautiful Gurung villages in the entire Annapurna region.
Chhomrong is famous for being the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary, and the views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South from here are incredible. You’ll have plenty of time in the afternoon to wander through the stone-paved alleys, visit the local school, or stop at a mountain bakery for some fresh apple pie. It’s a great day for the kids to see how people live and play in the heart of the mountains.
On our final morning, we enjoy a last breakfast in the mountains before heading down toward Jhinu Danda. The trail is mostly downhill, passing through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests. It’s a fun, easy walk to wrap up the trekking portion of our journey. Once we arrive in Jhinu, we take a short 20-minute walk down to the riverbank to reach the natural hot springs.
The hot springs are the ultimate reward for the kids! Everyone can soak in the warm, healing waters while listening to the rushing glacial river nearby. After our relaxing soak, we cross a long, high suspension bridge to reach our waiting private jeep. The drive back to Pokhara is comfortable and scenic, giving your family a chance to rest and look back at the beautiful mountains you just explored together.
What is included?
- All private airport transfers (pickup and drop-off)
- Transportation in Private Jeep from Pokhara to Banthanti & Jhinu to Pokhara
- Best available accommodations in mountain lodges and tea houses during the trek
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
- An experienced English speaking, government licensed trekking guide
- All trekking staff wages, accommodation, meals, equipment, insurance, medical coverage etc
- All necessary permits fee: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fee (ACAP) & TIMS card
- Well-equipped first aid kit, including oximeter
- Assistance in rescue operations in case of emergency covered by travel insurance
- Certificate of achievement upon trek completion
- Souvenirs: Company T-shirt and Purse
- Cultural program with farewell dinner
What is not included?
- International airfare & Nepal entry visa
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek
- Optional Porter Service: USD 18 per day per porter (each porter can carry up to 25 kg of luggage)
- Personal expenses (clothing & gears, drinking water, beverages, laundry, showers, etc.)
- Travel insurance (can be arranged by us), including high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended)
- Additional costs resulting from factors beyond our control
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the Itinerary & Included section
- All Government taxes 13% and Service Charges 10%
Route Map
Equipment
Clothing
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Base layers: Comfortable T-shirts, light thermal tops & leggings
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Mid layers: Fleece jacket or warm sweater
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Outer layer: Lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket
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Warm jacket (down or insulate)
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Trekking pants
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Light shorts or T-shirts
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Gloves (light or insulated depending on season)
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Warm hat/beanie
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Sun hat/cap for sun protection
Footwear
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Comfortable trekking boots (well broken-in for adults and kids)
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Wool or synthetic socks (3-4 pairs recommended)
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Lightweight sandals or slippers for teahouse use
Trekking Gear
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Small daypack for kids (10-20L)
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Backpack for adults (30-40L recommended)
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Trekking poles (optional but helpful for families)
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Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
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Headlamp or small flashlight
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Sunglasses with UV protection
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Light sleeping bag (0°C to -5°C comfort rating)
Personal Items
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Basic toiletries and hygiene products
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Sunscreen and lip balm (essential)
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Personal medications and basic first aid kit
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Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
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Quick-dry towel
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Phone/camera and power bank
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Water purification tablets (optional)
Extra (Optional for Families)
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Light snacks or energy bars for kids
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Small games, cards, or travel entertainment
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Passport copies and travel permits
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Lightweight binoculars (optional for mountain views)
Trip Info
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Best Time for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids
At Best Heritage Tour, we want your family to have the clearest views and the most comfortable walking conditions. While this trek is possible almost year-round due to its lower altitude, choosing the right month can make a huge difference for your children’s experience.
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Spring (March to May) - The Floral Paradise
Spring is arguably the most magical time for a family trek. The weather is stable and mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), making it perfect for kids to walk without getting overheated. The highlight of this season is the rhododendron bloom; the forests turn into a vibrant sea of red, pink, and white flowers. It feels like walking through a natural fairyland, which keeps children excited and engaged with the environment.
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Autumn (September to November) - The Golden Window
This is the peak trekking season in Nepal for a reason. After the summer rains, the dust is washed away, leaving the sharpest and clearest mountain views of the entire year. The sky is a deep, consistent blue, and the weather is very predictable. Temperatures are slightly cooler than spring, but the air is crisp and refreshing. It’s also a great time for cultural immersion, as major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar often fall during these months, filling the villages with a joyful, festive atmosphere.
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Winter (December to February) - Quiet & Crisp
If your family prefers peace and quiet, winter offers nearly empty trails. The skies are incredibly clear, providing stunning photos of the snow-capped peaks. However, it can be quite cold, especially at night and during the early morning hike to Poon Hill, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing (-5°C / 23°F). We only recommend this for families with older children who have the right cold-weather gear and don't mind a bit of a chill.
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Monsoon (June to August) - Lush but Challenging
We generally advise families to avoid the monsoon months. While the landscape is incredibly green and lush, the trails can be very slippery and muddy. This is also the season for leeches in the forest, which can be upsetting for younger children. Additionally, the heavy clouds often hide the mountain views you’ve worked so hard to see. If you do choose this time, we recommend high-quality waterproof gear and a very flexible schedule.
Permits Required for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids
Trekking in the Annapurna region, including the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with Kids, requires official permits to ensure conservation, safety, and proper trekking regulation. Trekkers must obtain the following:
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
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Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Note: Children below 6 Years do not need Permits.
Documents Required for Permits
Best Heritage Tour takes care of all necessary permits on your behalf, so you can focus entirely on enjoying the trek without worrying about paperwork. To process these permits, Best Heritage Tour will need:
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Clear Passport Copy: A scanned color copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months).
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Passport-Sized Photos: 4 recent digital photos (for permit forms and conservation logs).
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Travel Insurance: Your policy must explicitly cover emergency helicopter evacuation at altitudes up to 5,000 meters.
Note: There are several checkpoints along the trail where local authorities will check permit so keep permit safe.
Accommodation and Meals
We know that a good night’s sleep and a full stomach are the foundation of a successful family trek. Here is exactly what you can expect from the lodges we hand-pick for your journey.
Cozy Teahouse Accommodation
- The Rooms:
Our selected teahouses offer simple, clean, and comfortable twin-sharing rooms. Most feature wooden beds with foam mattresses, pillows, and warm blankets. While we always aim for rooms with attached bathrooms where available, some villages may have shared facilities. The views from your window are often the best part - don't be surprised to wake up with a massive snowy peak right in front of you!
- The Atmosphere:
The heart of every teahouse is the communal dining hall. In the evenings, a central wood or pot-bellied stove is lit, making it the warmest and most social spot in the building. It’s a wonderful place for your family to relax, play card games, meet other travelers, and recap the day’s adventures while staying cozy and out of the mountain chill.
Hearty Meals: Fuel for the Mountains
- The Famous Dal Bhat:
This is the ultimate trekking fuel and a must-try for every family. It consists of steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and pickles. It is healthy, 100% organic, and best of all - comes with free refills! Our guides always say, "Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour," and it truly is the best way to keep your energy levels high for the trail.
- Local Delicacies:
As we pass through Chhomrong and Ghorepani, you’ll encounter some of the best mountain bakeries in the world. You can expect fresh apple pies, cinnamon rolls, and chocolate croissants that taste even better after a few hours of hiking. For a local snack, try the "Gurung Bread" - a deep-fried, slightly sweet bread that kids absolutely love with honey or jam for breakfast.
- Other Options:
If your children are picky eaters, don't worry. The teahouse menus are surprisingly diverse. You can find plenty of "kid-approved" international dishes, including various types of pasta, fried rice, pancakes, omelets, French fries, and even mountain-style pizza.
Staying hydrated is the secret to beating altitude sickness. You can choose from hot drinks like ginger-lemon-honey tea, masala tea, and hot chocolate. Most mountain meals are naturally vegetarian, and vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options can be arranged - simply inform Best Heritage Tour at the start of the trek.
Trip Difficulty and Fitness Requirement
We have specifically redesigned the traditional Ghorepani route to ensure it is achievable and enjoyable for families. By cutting out the most exhausting sections with private transport, we’ve turned a challenging trek into a manageable mountain walk.
Understanding the Difficulty
- A Kid-Friendly Grade:
We classify this trek as Easy to Moderate. While "easy" in the Himalayas still involves walking on inclined paths, we have removed the legendary 3,000-step climb that usually discourages children. Most of the walking takes place on well-maintained dirt paths and stone stairs through shaded forests. Because the daily distances are kept short (3 to 5 hours of walking), kids have plenty of time to explore without feeling pushed to their limits.
- Altitude and Safety:
One of the best things about this trek for families is the safe altitude profile. We stay below 3,300m (10,826ft), which significantly lowers the risk of altitude-related issues compared to higher treks like Everest or Annapurna Base Camp. The air remains relatively thick and easy to breathe, making it an ideal "first trek" for young explorers.
Physical Fitness Requirements
- For the Little Explorers:
Your children don't need to be athletes to enjoy this trip! If they are active, enjoy playing outdoors, and can handle a few hours of walking with breaks, they will do great. We recommend taking a few "practice hikes" at home in the weeks leading up to the trip. Carrying a small, light backpack with their own water bottle and snacks helps them feel like a real part of the expedition team.
- For the Parents:
As a parent, you should be in good health and comfortable walking on uneven terrain. You won't be carrying heavy loads, our porters take care of the main luggage but you should be prepared to offer encouragement and a steady hand on the trail. A basic level of cardiovascular fitness, such as regular walking or swimming, is more than enough to ensure you enjoy the scenery rather than catching your breath.
Our "Pace-Setter" Guarantee
The most important thing to remember is that the youngest member of the family sets the pace. At Best Heritage Tour, our guides are experts at reading a child's energy levels. We take frequent "chocolate breaks," stop to look at cool bugs or flowers, and never rush. If the kids are tired, we stop; if they are energetic, we explore. This flexibility is what makes our family packages so successful.
Travel Insurance
For this trek, standard travel insurance enough. At Best Heritage Tour, we require proof of a comprehensive insurance policy before you can begin the trek. Your policy must include the following specific coverages:
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High-Altitude Coverage (Up to 3,500m)
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Medical Emergency & Hospitalization
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Emergency Helicopter Evacuation
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Search and Rescue (SAR)
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Trip Cancellation & Interruption
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Cashless Claims & Direct Payment
Pro Tip: Always carry a physical print-out of your insurance policy and the 24-hour emergency contact number in your chest pocket. In an emergency, every second counts, and having your policy number ready allows Best Heritage Tour to launch a rescue immediately.
Visa for Nepal
All international travelers (except Indian) need a tourist visa to visit Nepal, which can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport or online.
Key Details:
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Duration: 15, 30, or 90 days (15 days recommended for this trek)
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Fees: 15 days - USD 30 | 30 days - USD 50 | 90 days - USD 125
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Requirements: Valid passport (6+ months), visa form, passport photo, and payment in cash (USD/EUR/GBP/NPR)
Tip: Keep a copy of your visa and passport during the trek and consider applying visa online (through Nepal Immigration Website) for a smoother arrival. Also register to Foreign Nationals Management Information System (FNMIS) as this is now mandatory for any Tourists entering Nepal from 2026.
Booking & Payment
Booking your Ghorepani Poon Hill Family Trek with Best Heritage Tour is simple and secure. To confirm your trip, a 10% deposit of the total trip cost is required at the time of booking, while the remaining balance must be cleared at least one day before departure. Payments can be made via cash, bank transfer, or card; bank transfer and card fees are the responsibility of the trekker, and incur a 4% transaction fee. All booking and cancellation terms are clearly explained by Best Heritage Tour staff during the booking process and can also be reviewed on our website.
Bank transfer:
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Account Name: Best Heritage Tour And Treks Pvt. Ltd.
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Account Number: 13201040254106
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Bank Name: Nepal Investment Mega Bank Ltd.
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Address: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
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SWIFT Code: NIBLNPKT
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Bank Transfer Link: www.bestheritagetour.com/payment
Once we receive the deposit, we will issue the official invoice and booking conformation right away. If you need any clarification, we are happy to answer your questions or provide additional details you may require.
Last-Minute Booking
For travelers planning on short notice, Best Heritage Tour accepts last-minute bookings up to 24 hours before departure. In such cases, full payment (100% of the trip cost) is required at the time of booking. Trekkers should be aware that accommodation, logistics, and services may be limited, and the company cannot be held responsible for any compromises arising from late arrangements.
Trip Extension
If you wish to extend your adventure beyond the Poon Hill trek, Best Heritage Tour offers several exciting kids friendly options. You can go for Chitwan Jungle Safari, Bird watching tour, enjoy cultural tours in Kathmandu Valley, visit serene villages, or relax by Phewa Lake in Pokhara. Our team will help create a customized itinerary based on your interests, schedule, and fitness level, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable extension to your Himalayan journey.
