3 days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

3 Days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
At a Glance
Duration3 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude3,210 m (Poon Hill)
Group Size1-10 Trekkers
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrekking and Hiking
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

Poon Hill Trek- 3 days Overview

The Three-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is a compact yet unforgettable journey that takes you through the Annapurna region. Ideal for travellers with limited time, it offers panoramic views, colourful rhododendron forests, and authentic interactions with Gurung and Magar communities.

You’ll begin your trek with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, followed by a gentle ascent through terraced hills and traditional villages like Tikhedhunga and Ulleri. On the way, you can observe streams, waterfalls, and stone staircases lined with wildflowers that might immerse you in the mountains.

Day 2 leads you to Ghorepani (2,874 m), a welcoming village of Gurung and Magar families. You’ll enjoy twin-sharing accommodation, comfort, and warm meals at Teahouses, which will allow you to experience local life and hospitality.

On the third day, you’ll begin your trek with an early morning walk to Poon Hill (3,210 m), the highest point of the trek. At Poon Hill, you can enjoy watching the sunrise illuminate Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding peaks. The descent takes you through rhododendron forests, and you’ll continue through Tadapani before trekking back to Birethanti and driving to Pokhara. After returning, you’ll enjoy a one-night stay in a three-star hotel in Pokhara on a bed-and-dinner basis, providing comfort and relaxation after the trek.

The 3-day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is rated easy to moderate, suitable for beginners with a reasonable fitness level. It can be done year-round, with spring and autumn offering the clearest skies. Daytime temperatures range from 10 °C to 20 °C, dropping near freezing at higher altitudes.

Meals during the trek are nourishing, featuring local favourites like dal bhat, momos, garlic soup, and Tibetan bread, with vegetarian and vegan options widely available.

With a combination of culture, nature, and adventure, the Three-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers a memorable Himalayan experience, leaving you with lasting impressions of Nepal’s mountains, traditions, and warm hospitality.

Highlights of the 3-Day Poon Hill Trek

  • Learn about local culture by meeting friendly Gurung and Magar communities.
     
  • Walk through enchanting forests filled with rhododendrons, moss, and tangled roots.
     
  • Pass several waterfalls and river crossings along the way.
     
  • See colourful Nepali prayer flags lining the route, creating a spiritual and uplifting atmosphere.
     
  • Experience the spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill, with views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding peaks.
     
  • Observe village life, traditional stone houses, and the warm hospitality of mountain communities.
     
  • Enjoy many other real-life experiences that reading alone cannot capture about the Poon Hill Trek.

What Makes the 3-Day Poon Hill Trek Special?

The 3-Day Poon Hill Trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal. It features the world-famous Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint (3,210 m), where the rising sun casts a golden light on Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding peaks, creating a magical moment.

Along the way, we pass through charming Gurung and Magar villages, experiencing authentic mountain life, traditional houses, terraced farms, and the warm hospitality of local communities.

Its proximity to Pokhara eliminates your long drives and complicated logistics, making it a convenient trekking route for you. With comfortable teahouses, warm meals, friendly guides, and well-marked trails, the trek is both affordable and accessible. You can enjoy a big adventure in a short timeframe, taking in panoramic landscapes and rich cultural encounters.

Why Trek With Ammonite Adventure?

  • Local expertise knows the best and the worst!
  • Our guides are experienced locals who grew up in these mountains. They know every shortcut, hidden viewpoint, quiet resting spot, and the most scenic sections of the trail. With their deep knowledge of the region, you can be sure not to miss the beautiful places many trekkers often overlook.
  • We Handle All Trekking Permits
  • No need to worry about paperwork. We handle all required permits, including ACAP and TIMS, ensuring a hassle-free start and finish to your journey.
  • Personalised Guidance & Support
  • Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, our team adjusts the pace and itinerary to match your comfort and preferences. You’ll always feel supported and safe.
  • Safe & Responsible Travel
  • Your safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in first aid, altitude awareness, and responsible trekking practices to make your experience both safe and enjoyable.

What are the Best Times and Weather for the Poon Hill Trek?

The best time to trek to Poon Hill is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–December). In spring, you can enjoy rhododendron forests that bloom in vibrant colours, you can experience pleasant temperatures, and skies are usually clear—ideal for first-time trekkers. Autumn offers you dry weather and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks, perfect for photography and enjoying the panoramic sunrise at Poon Hill.

Summer (June–August) is the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and clouds that can obscure mountain views. You can trek even in summer, but we do not recommend it for beginners. Winter (January–February) brings cold temperatures, especially at night and in the early morning, with occasional snow at higher elevations. However, you can observe clear skies, which provide stunning views if you’re prepared for the cold.

Daytime temperatures generally range from 15–25°C at lower altitudes, dropping to 5–10°C at night in the villages and near 0°C at Poon Hill. Layered clothing is essential, and rain gear is recommended during the monsoon season.

Types of permits you need during the Poon Hill Trek

To trek in the Annapurna region, you must obtain the following licenses:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

(Required for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area.)

(Helps fund conservation and local development.)

2. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
(Mandatory for all foreign trekkers in Nepal.)

(Used to track trekkers and ensure safety along popular trails.)
 

Note:Ammonite Adventure arrange both permits on your behalf, but you must provide passport copies and personal information in advance. However, to learn more about it, you can check on the official website of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. 

Itinerary

Our guide and porter will pick you up from your hotel at around 8:00 A.M. With a comfortable taxi ride from Pokhara, you’ll reach Nayapul after a 2-hour ride. From Nayapul, we will trek to Ulleri along a gentle riverside path, passing through Gurung and Magar villages. On the first day, we’ll spend our night in Ulleri at a warm and welcoming teahouse.

Max. Altitude: 2,000 m (6,562 ft)Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local teahouses and lodgesDuration: Drive 1.5–2 hours | Hike 5–6 hoursDistance: Drive 40–58 km (25–36 miles) | Hike 11 km (6.8 miles)Mode of Transport: Jeep

After breakfast, we’ll begin our trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani. After approximately 7 hours of trekking, we’ll arrive in Ghorepani, located at an elevation of 2850 meters ( 9350.394 feet ), and stay overnight at a cozy teahouse in Ghorepani.

Max. Altitude: 2,850 m / 9350 feetMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Local teahouses and lodgesDuration: Approximately 5–6 hours hikeDistance: 8–11 km (5–6.8 miles)

Poon Hill is about an hour’s walk from Ghorepani. Our final day begins early, around 4:00 AM, with a short trek to Poon Hill. At the top, we are rewarded with one of Nepal’s best sunrise views.

We can also enjoy a morning cup of tea at local stalls near Poon Hill. Afterwards, we’ll return to Ghorepani for breakfast and begin our descent to Tikhedhunga. From Tikhedhunga, we’ll take a local bus or taxi back to Pokhara, concluding your 3-day trekking adventure.

Max. Altitude: 3,210 m / 10,525 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Three-star hotelDuration: Hike 6–7 hours | Drive 3–4 hoursDistance: Hike 23–24 km (14–15 miles) | Drive 65 km (40 miles)Mode of Transport: Jeep
Customize Trip

What is Included?

Hotel in City

  • one-night twin-sharing stay at a hotel in Pokhara, offered on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

Transportation

  • Airport Transfers: We provide round-trip transfers for both international and domestic flights, ensuring a smooth pick-up and drop-off at the airport.
  • Trek Start: A private vehicle transfer is arranged from Pokhara to Nayapul at the start of the trek.
  • Trek End: A  private vehicle transfer is also arranged from Birethanti back to Pokhara at the end of the trek.
  • Staff Transport: All ground transportation for guides, assistant guides, porters, and support staff is included.

Accommodations

  • Trek Accommodation: Stay overnight in local tea houses on a twin-sharing basis. Single rooms can be arranged for a small additional fee, subject to availability.
  • Total Accommodation Nights: The trek includes 3 nights of standard twin-sharing accommodation.

Food

  • Full Board Meals: Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with hot drinks, throughout the entire trek.
  • Special Inclusions: Water purification tablets are provided to ensure safe drinking water.
  • Total meals included: The trek consists of a total of 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.

Guide

  • Guides: One government-licensed, English-speaking guide will accompany your trek. Assistant guides may join depending on the group size. 
  • All guide-related expenses—including fees, food, insurance, salaries, accommodation, transport, and equipment—are fully covered.

Porter

  • Porters: One porter is provided for every two trekkers, with a personal luggage allowance of up to 9 kg per trekker.
  • All porter-related expenses—including fees, food, insurance, salary, accommodation, transport, and equipment—are fully covered.

Trek Permits and Expenses

  • All required permits, including special area permits.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Medical Assistance

  • Emergency Provision: Emergency oxygen and a comprehensive first aid kit will be carried throughout the trek.
  • Rescue Arrangements: Trained rescue personnel are available in case of emergencies (covered through your Trek Travel Insurance).

Souvenir

  • Goodbye Souvenirs: All participants will receive an Ammonite Adventure cap and T-shirt.
  • Completion Certificate: A completion certificate for all participants.

Gear and Trekking Equipments

  • Sleeping bags, down jackets, and a duffel bag (shared between two trekkers) are provided if you don’t have your own.
  • Map of the Annapurna Region.

Additional Services

  • Luggage Storage: Complimentary and secure luggage storage available for the entire duration of your trek.
  • Full Coordination: Our dedicated coordination team will handle all logistics, planning, and requirements on your behalf.

Farewell

  • A memorable cultural dinner in Kathmandu to mark the completion of your trek.

What is Excluded?

International Flight

  • Flights to and from Nepal (Pokhara) and International Flights are not included.

Food

  • Lunch, dinner, or snacks in Pokhara before and after the trek.

Guide and Porter

  • Extra guide or porter services are not included.

Visa

  • Nepal entry visa fees and any related immigration costs.

Travel Insurance

  • Any medical, trip cancellation, or evacuation insurance.

Personal Expenses

  • Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and personal shopping.

Other Expenses

  • Any extra excursions, rafting, paragliding, or sightseeing beyond the trek.
  • Trekking poles, sleeping bags, or other gear not specified in inclusions.
  • Any costs arising due to illness, injury, or unforeseen events.
  • Tips for guides, porters, or drivers.

Add-ons & Options

At Ammonite Adventure, we try our best to make your trek as comfortable and personalised as possible. That’s why we offer a range of optional services and upgrades to enhance your experience:

Porter Services

If you prefer to travel light, we can arrange porter services to carry your luggage along the trail for an additional charge of USD 25. Our experienced porters know the terrain, are reliable, and take excellent care of your belongings, letting you enjoy the trek with minimal effort.

Transportation

We provide comfortable taxi rides or local buses from Pokhara to Nayapul and back, ensuring a smooth start and finish to your adventure. Private transfers can also be arranged on request for added convenience and comfort at an extra charge of USD 25.

Upgraded Accommodation 

During the trek, accommodation is provided in cozy teahouses and lodges along the trail. Travellers can upgrade their rooms for extra comfort at an additional charge of USD 10.

Additional Information

Health Tips & Altitude Sickness

Trekking in the Himalayas is an incredible experience, but your health and safety are essential. Even on a moderate trek like Poon Hill, you may experience mild altitude sickness during the trek, including headaches, nausea, or dizziness. So, you need to walk at a steady pace, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and smoking, and inform your guide if you notice any symptoms.

Prepare yourself with light cardio, a balanced diet, proper hygiene, and clothing that protects you against the sun and cold. Our guides are trained in first aid and altitude management, and descending remains the best solution for severe symptoms. However, following these precautions ensures that you have a safe and enjoyable trek while taking in the stunning landscapes and sunrise from Poon Hill.

Preparation

Though the trek is short, it’s always better to be prepared than to face unnecessary difficulties later. For any trekking—whether short or long—it’s important to keep oneself healthy, both physically and mentally. Here are some practices you can follow to maintain your health:

  • Physical: Light cardio, hiking, or stair climbing in the weeks before the trek helps build stamina.
     
  • Mental: Prepare for early starts, changing weather, and walking several hours a day.

Accommodation

You’ll stay in cozy tea houses or lodges along the trail during your trek. Rooms are typically twin-sharing, and upgrades are available for extra comfort at an additional cost.

Facilities & Amenities on the Trail:

  • You have Clean and comfortable twin-sharing rooms
  • Blankets provided by teahouses
  • Hot showers (available at a small extra charge)
  • Wi-Fi in most teahouses (paid in some)
  • Charging facilities for phones and cameras (paid in some)
  • Common dining halls with heaters during cold months
  • Nutritious meals with vegetarian and vegan options available.
     

After returning to Pokhara, you’ll enjoy a one-night stay in a three-star hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

Meals on the 3-Day Poon Hill Trek

Vegan Options:

  • Tibetan bread (no butter)
  • Plain chapati
  • Vegetable momo
  • Seasonal fruits
  • Apple or banana porridge with water
  • Thenthuk with vegetables (Tibetan noodle soup)
     

Vegetarian Options:

  • Dal Bhat (with vegetable curry and pickles)
  • Paneer curry (subject to availability)
  • Cheese pizza
  • Steamed vegetable momos
  • Vegetable chow mein
  • Egg fried rice
  • Vegetable thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
  • Grilled cheese sandwich
  • Fried rice with vegetables
  • Fresh tomato soup
  • Creamy mushroom soup
  • Boiled eggs
  • Toast with butter, jam, or honey
  • Pancakes (with banana, apple, honey, or jam)
  • Crispy French fries
  • Chapati with vegetables
     

Non-Vegetarian Options:

  • Dal Bhat with chicken or buffalo curry
  • Chicken fried rice
  • Chicken or buffalo chow mein
  • Steamed chicken or buffalo momos
  • Tuna sandwich
  • Chicken or buffalo thukpa / thenthuk
  • Meat-based pasta (macaroni or spaghetti with chicken or buffalo)
  • Chicken pizza
  • Chicken or egg curry with rice
  • Boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, or omelettes
  • Traditional meat stew
  • Chicken soup
  • Tuna fried rice
  • Spicy buffalo chilli (occasionally available)
  • Fried eggs with toast
  • Mixed meat and vegetable curry (when available)

Extra Personal Expenses on Trekking

At Ammonite Adventure, we want to ensure you have a clear understanding of your trekking experience. While most essentials are included in your package, there may be extra personal expenses during the trek. These can include:

  • Snacks and beverages at tea houses are beyond the included meals.
  • Laundry services or personal comfort items.
  • Souvenirs or local handicrafts purchased along the trail.
  • Optional activities such as extra sightseeing, hot springs, or cultural experiences are not included in the standard itinerary.

These expenses are entirely optional and depend on your personal preferences. We recommend carrying some extra cash in Nepali Rupees to cover these items, as card facilities may be limited along the trail.

Booking and Payment Process

Ammonite Adventure is a government-licensed and bonded trekking agency in Nepal and a proud member of both the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). When you book with us, you can be assured you’re in reliable hands.

To confirm your trek, a 20% deposit is required, payable via bank transfer, Western Union, or online. The remaining balance can be settled in Nepal by cash, credit card, or bank transfer. After booking, please send us a copy of your passport (including any dependent children), along with your photos, travel insurance information, and flight details within one week.

Last Minute Booking

We accept last-minute bookings for the Short Poon Hill Trek. For these reservations, full payment is required at least 24 hours before the trek begins. While we strive to operate treks on short notice, please note that last-minute arrangements may pose challenges, especially with securing transportation and accommodation.

Trip Extensions

We understand that some travellers may want to extend their Himalayan experience beyond the standard 3-Day Poon Hill Trek. We offer flexible trip extensions to explore more of the Annapurna region or relax in Pokhara after the trek.

For a fully planned experience, we also offer other similar packages (link), designed to give you more time to enjoy the mountains, villages, and panoramic landscapes at a relaxed pace. Visit our other packages to explore these extended itineraries and plan your ideal Himalayan adventure.
 

Feedback

Your experience matters to us. We value your thoughts and would love to hear about your trek. Please share your feedback, suggestions, or testimonials about our services, guides, accommodation, and overall trekking experience. Your input helps us improve and ensures future travellers enjoy the same high-quality adventure.

Equipments

Head

  • Lightweight sun hat
  • Warm winter cap
  • Scarf or neck warmer

Upper Body

  • Quick-dry trekking shirts
  • Insulated puffer jacket
  • Long-sleeve shirts or thermal tops 
  • Fleece jacket or warm mid-layer

Hands

  • Thin liner gloves
  • Thick warm gloves

Lower Body

  • Comfortable trekking trousers and  pants 
  • Rainproof pants (optional)
  • Warm trousers or thermal leggings
  • Underwear and trekking socks

Feet

  • Breathable hiking socks
  • Spare pair of warm socks
  • Comfortable trekking shoes
  • Sandals or slippers for lodges
  • Gaiters (optional, if trekking in muddy/rainy season)

Toiletries

  • Basic dental kit
  • Sanitizing wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Tissue or toilet paper (tea houses may not provide)
  • Medications (if required)
  • Sunscreen and lip protection
  • Personal care essentials

Backpacks

  • Small daypack (20–30L)
  • Backpack rain cover

Accessories

  • UV-protection sunglasses
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Trekking poles (optional but recommended)

Extra Items

  • Portable charger
     
  • Camera or smartphone
     
  • Required personal medicines
     
  • Notebook or travel journal

FAQs

With Ammonite Adventure, the trek can be completed in 3 days or more, as per your preferences, making it ideal for your schedule.

The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 m (10,531 ft).

We categorise it as easy to moderate, suitable even for first-time trekkers.

The ideal seasons are spring (March–May) for blooming rhododendrons and autumn (September–December) for clear skies and panoramic mountain views.

Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, while early mornings on Poon Hill can drop close to 0°C.

Yes, but be prepared for colder mornings and occasional snow.

It’s possible, but we don’t recommend it as trails may be muddy and the views may be more unpredictable.

You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. We handle all the permit arrangements for you.

At the Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
We handle all permit arrangements on your behalf.

If you trek with Ammonite Adventure, we ensure everything is prepared before your arrival.

A copy of your passport, travel insurance, flight details, and details of any dependent children.

Our 3-day package pricing varies depending on group size and season. Contact us for a tailored quote.

Accommodation, guide, permits, meals (as specified), transportation, and support services.

Personal expenses, beverages, tips, extra snacks, and optional add-ons.

Yes, Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging, and snacks may have small additional costs.

Yes, and it should be covering trekking and emergency evacuation.

Carry around NPR 3,000–5,000 for your personal expenses.

Yes, it's one of the best beginner-friendly treks in Nepal.

Yes, the trek is suitable for children and older travellers, provided they have a reasonable fitness level and take necessary precautions.

No prior trekking experience is required. A basic fitness level and stamina for walking a few hours each day are sufficient.

Basic fitness is enough. You’ll be walking 4–6 hours a day on average.

You can prepare with light cardio, walking, jogging, and stairs for 2–3 weeks, as this helps greatly.

We adjust the pace and provide support—your comfort is our priority.

Layered clothing, trekking shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, headlamp, and essentials.

Not mandatory, but helpful on stone steps.

Yes, most needed items are available for rent or purchase.

Accommodation is in tea houses or lodges along the trail. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with basic facilities. Blankets are provided, but a sleeping bag is optional for extra warmth.

Yes, but it is usually with a small extra charge.

Mobile coverage is limited in remote areas, and Wi-Fi is occasionally available at some lodges (might incur an additional charge). 

Yes, 1 night in a 3-star hotel (bed and dinner) after completing the trek.

 A mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and continental dishes.

Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and non-veg options are all available.

We recommend using purified or boiled water, which is widely available on the trail.

Yes, though prices increase with altitude.

Rare but possible, as the highest point is a moderate elevation. 

Yes, our guides are trained to handle altitude-related situations.

We arrange immediate descent and assist with evacuation if needed.

The trek starts from Nayapul, which is a short drive from Pokhara. Ammonite Adventure provides taxi or local bus transportation from Pokhara to Nayapul, ensuring a smooth start to your trek.

Yes, this can shorten the trek; tell us your preference and we’ll arrange accordingly.

After finishing at Birethanti, you’ll return to Pokhara via a comfortable vehicle arranged by Ammonite Adventure.

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