Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Trip details
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu — 6 Days | Nepal's Most Complete Short Himalayan Adventure
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu is the most complete and immersive version of Nepal's most beloved short trek, combining the cultural richness of Kathmandu, the ancient capital of Nepal, with the breathtaking natural splendor of the Annapurna Conservation Area. This iconic 6-day trekking package from Kathmandu takes you on an unforgettable journey from the bustling streets of Thamel through the scenic Prithvi Highway to Nepal's adventure capital, Pokhara, before ascending into the heart of the Annapurna foothills via a classic loop through Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk.
Ideal for first-time trekkers, families, solo travellers, and international tourists visiting Nepal for the first time, the Kathmandu to Poon Hill Trek delivers an authentic end-to-end Nepali experience, from ancient temples and vibrant bazaars to terraced hillside villages and panoramic Himalayan vistas—all within a single well-structured package. Often referred to as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu or the Poon Hill Trek Nepal package, this itinerary is the gold standard for travelers who want to experience both the cultural heartbeat of Nepal and its world-famous mountain landscapes in one seamless journey.
Spanning 6 days and covering a total distance of approximately 177 kilometers from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back, this package efficiently combines overland travel with high-quality trekking to deliver maximum value in minimum time. The journey begins with a scenic 200 km drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (820 m) which is approximately 7 hours by tourist coach or just 25 minutes by domestic flight, before proceeding to the trek's starting point at Nayapul (1,070 m). The trekking portion of the itinerary covers approximately 43 kilometers across four days, ascending from Tikhedhunga (1,540 m) through Ulleri, Banthanti, and Ghorepani (2,860 m) before reaching the iconic Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 meters, the highest point of the trek. The route then descends via Tadapani (2,630 m) and the stunning Gurung village of Ghandruk (1,940 m) before a drive back to Pokhara, followed by the return journey to Kathmandu on Day 6. Daily trekking time ranges from 3 to 7 hours, with an overall difficulty rating of easy-to-moderate, making the Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu accessible to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure.
The best seasons for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), both of which offer ideal weather conditions, stable trails, and crystal-clear mountain views. Spring is particularly magical on this route, as the trail between Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani passes through one of the world's largest rhododendron forests, which erupts in breathtaking shades of red, pink, and white during March and April. The crown jewel of the entire package is the pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for the famous Himalayan sunrise — an experience that reveals a jaw-dropping panorama of some of the world's highest peaks, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Nilgiri (6,940 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), and Tukuche Peak (6,920 m) glowing gold in the first light of dawn. Beyond Poon Hill, the trek also passes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages such as Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk, where trekkers can visit the Gurung Cultural Museum, interact with warm local communities, explore stone-paved village lanes adorned with Buddhist prayer flags, and gain a rare and authentic insight into centuries-old Himalayan culture and traditions. The diverse landscape transitions from subtropical river valleys and terraced farmlands near Nayapul to dense rhododendron and oak forests at higher altitudes — creating a trekking experience that is as visually diverse as it is culturally enriching.
Whether you are a solo adventurer landing in Kathmandu for the first time, a couple seeking a romantic Himalayan escape, or a family looking for a memorable multi-day trekking experience in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package from Kathmandu offers an unbeatable combination of cultural immersion, Himalayan scenery, and trekking accessibility — all in just 6 days. Starting from the ancient temples of Kathmandu and ending back in the same city, this package is the perfect all-in-one Nepal adventure that requires no additional logistics or planning on your part. From the first mountain vista on the Prithvi Highway to the final golden sunrise at Poon Hill and the warm hospitality of Gurung teahouses in Ghandruk, every moment of this journey is designed to leave you inspired, energised, and deeply connected to the magic of the Himalayas. Book your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu today and let Nepal's most iconic short trek transform your travel experience, because some sunrises are simply too extraordinary to miss.
Highlights of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Scenic overland drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara via the Prithvi Highway
Explore Pokhara which is Nepal's adventure capital on the shores of Phewa Lake
Trek through one of the world's largest and most spectacular rhododendron forests
Witness a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m)
Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Nilgiri (6,940 m), and Annapurna South (7,219 m)
Conquer the legendary Ulleri stone staircase, one of the most iconic trail sections in Nepal
Trek through the traditional Magar village of Ulleri and highland settlement of Ghorepani
Pass through enchanting forest villages of Banthanti, Nangethanti, Deurali, and Tadapani
Explore Ghandruk — one of the largest and most authentic Gurung villages in the Annapurna region
Visit the Gurung Cultural Museum in Ghandruk for a deep dive into Himalayan heritage
Experience the warm hospitality of locally-owned teahouses along the trail
Enjoy close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South from Ghandruk
Walk through terraced farmlands, suspension bridges, and river valleys along the Modi Khola
Suitable for beginners, families, senior citizens, and first-time trekkers
A complete Nepal experience combining two iconic cities and one legendary trek in just 6 days
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu — 6-Day Route Summary
Day | Route | Distance | Trek/Drive Time | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Kathmandu → Pokhara | 200 km (drive) | ~7 hrs drive / 25 min flight | 1,400 m → 820 m |
2 | Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga | 9 km trek + 42 km drive | 2 hrs drive + 3–4 hrs trek | 1,540 m |
3 | Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani | 12 km trek | ~6 hrs | 2,860 m |
4 | Poon Hill Sunrise → Tadapani | 14 km trek | ~6–7 hrs | 3,210 m |
5 | Tadapani → Ghandruk → Pokhara | 8 km trek + drive | ~3 hrs trek + 3 hrs drive | 1,940 m |
6 | Pokhara → Kathmandu | 200 km (drive) | ~7 hrs drive / 25 min flight | 1,400 m |
Price Starting From
US$650Per person
Bijay Chaurasia
Travel Consultant
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Itinerary
Day 1: Day 1: Kathmandu → Pokhara (820 m)
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Day 1: Day 1: Kathmandu → Pokhara (820 m)
Drive: 200 km | ~7 hours | Optional Flight: 25 minutes
Elevation: 1,400 m → 820 m
Your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu begins with an early morning departure from the heart of Nepal's ancient capital. Whether you choose to travel by tourist coach along the scenic Prithvi Highway or take a quick 25-minute domestic flight to Pokhara, the journey itself is a rewarding introduction to Nepal's diverse landscape. The Prithvi Highway which one of Nepal's most scenic overland routes and winds through lush river gorges, terraced hillsides, cascading waterfalls, and charming roadside villages before arriving at Pokhara, Nepal's adventure capital nestled beside the serene Phewa Lake. Travelers who opt for the flight are treated to spectacular aerial views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges on a clear morning.
Upon arrival in Pokhara (820 m), you check into your lakeside hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. The evening is the perfect opportunity to stroll along the Lakeside promenade, explore the vibrant Thamel-style bazaar of Pokhara, savour a lakeside dinner, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this beautiful city as you prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 2: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga (1,540 m)
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Day 2: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga (1,540 m)
Drive: 42 km | ~2 hours | Trek: 9 km | ~3–4 hours
Elevation: 820 m → 1,540
Route: Nayapul – Birethanti – Tikhedhunga
After an early breakfast at your Pokhara hotel, your guide and private vehicle transfer you to Nayapul (1,070 m) — the official starting point of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the gateway to the Annapurna trekking region. The 42 km drive takes approximately 2 hours on a well-maintained road, offering beautiful views of the Modi Khola River valley and the foothills of the Annapurna range as you approach the trailhead.
At Nayapul, your trekking permits — the ACAP permit and TIMS Card — are checked at the Birethanti checkpost before the trail begins in earnest. From Birethanti, the trail follows the refreshing Modi Khola River through a broad, lush valley, passing through charming settlements of Sudame, Matathanti, and Hile before arriving at Tikhedhunga (1,540 m). This is a gentle, acclimatization-friendly first trekking day designed to warm up your legs and introduce you to the rhythm of the trail. The path is relatively flat with gradual inclines, making it an enjoyable and scenic walk through terraced farmlands, suspension bridges, and riverside villages. Overnight at a teahouse in Tikhedhunga.
Day 3: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani (2,860 m)
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Day 3: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani (2,860 m)
Trek: 12 km | ~6 hours
Elevation: 1,540 m → 2,860 m | Elevation Gain: ~1,320 m
Route: Tikhedhunga – Ulleri – Banthanti – Ghorepani
This is the most physically demanding day of the entire Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu and the one that defines the character of the entire journey. The day begins immediately with the infamous and legendary Ulleri stone staircase — over 3,200 steep stone steps that climb relentlessly from Tikhedhunga to the Magar village of Ulleri (2,070 m). While the ascent is undeniably strenuous, the reward is equally generous: sweeping views of Annapurna South (7,219 m) begin to appear above the ridgeline as you gain altitude, urging you upward with every step.
Beyond Ulleri, the gradient eases considerably as the trail winds through the enchanting settlements of Banthanti (2,250 m) and Nangethanti (2,430 m), where stone teahouses offer welcome rest stops for tea and snacks. The forest deepens into a magical canopy of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo — a particularly spectacular stretch in spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. The trail continues its gradual climb all the way to Ghorepani (2,860 m), a large and welcoming Gurung highland village perched on a ridge with commanding views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. After checking into your teahouse, take a short walk around the village, enjoy a hot Dal Bhat dinner, and retire early in preparation for the pre-dawn Poon Hill hike. Overnight in Ghorepani.
Day 4: Poon Hill (3,210 m) Sunrise → Ghorepani → Tadapani (2,630 m)
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Day 4: Poon Hill (3,210 m) Sunrise → Ghorepani → Tadapani (2,630 m)
Trek: 14 km | ~6–7 hours
Elevation: 2,860 m → 3,210 m (Poon Hill) → 2,630 m
Route: Poon Hill – Ghorepani – Deurali – Tadapani
The highlight of the entire Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu arrives on Day 4. A wake-up call at approximately 4:00 AM sets the tone for one of the most extraordinary mornings of your life. By the light of your headlamp, you begin the steep 45-minute to 1-hour climb from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210 m) — the highest point of the trek and one of the most celebrated sunrise viewpoints in the entire Himalayas. The trail climbs steadily through dark, cold forest before emerging onto the open hilltop, where you join fellow trekkers from around the world gathered in anticipation of the dawn.
As the first golden rays of sunlight breach the horizon, an extraordinary panorama unfolds before you — a 180-degree sweep of some of the world's highest mountains, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Nilgiri (6,940 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m) — all glowing pink and gold in the morning light. This is the moment every trekker lives for, and no photograph or description can fully capture its magnificence. After soaking in the sunrise and descending back to Ghorepani for a hot breakfast, the trail continues eastward through the beautiful village of Deurali and descends steadily through dense rhododendron and oak forest all the way to Tadapani (2,630 m) — a tranquil forest village with stunning views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South from the teahouse balconies. Overnight in Tadapani.
Day 5: Tadapani → Ghandruk → Pokhara (820 m)
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Day 5: Tadapani → Ghandruk → Pokhara (820 m)
Trek: 8 km | ~3 hours | Drive: ~3 hours
Elevation: 2,630 m → 1,940 m → 820 m
Route: Tadapani – Ghandruk – Kimche – Pokhara
The fifth day begins with a pleasant, mostly downhill walk from Tadapani through dense forest and the small tea stop of Bhaisi Kharka before arriving at Ghandruk (1,940 m) which is one of the largest and most celebrated Gurung villages in the entire Annapurna region. Nestled on a sun-drenched hillside with unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South seemingly close enough to touch, Ghandruk is the cultural highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and a place that lingers in the memory long after the trek is over.
Spend time in Ghandruk exploring the slate-stone lanes, browsing local handicraft shops, and visiting the Gurung Cultural Museum, a fascinating exhibition of traditional Gurung weapons, costumes, jewellery, and household artefacts that offers a profound window into the warrior heritage and rich traditions of the Gurung people. After a well-deserved hot lunch in Ghandruk, the trail descends further to Kimche (1,550 m), where a waiting jeep or private vehicle transfers you back to Pokhara in approximately 3 hours. Back at your Pokhara hotel, enjoy a warm shower, a lakeside dinner, and a well-earned night of rest. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 6: Pokhara → Kathmandu (1,400 m)
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Day 6: Pokhara → Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Drive: 200 km | ~7 hours | Optional Flight: 25 minutes
Elevation: 820 m → 1,400 m
The final day of your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek package from Kathmandu brings you full circle as you make the return journey from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. Depart after an early breakfast for the scenic 200 km drive along the Prithvi Highway, the same route you traveled on Day 1, now viewed through the eyes of someone who has stood atop Poon Hill and witnessed the Himalayas at sunrise. If you prefer, a 25-minute domestic flight is available, offering one final aerial view of the Annapurna range before landing in Kathmandu.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your airport or hotel drop-off marks the official conclusion of an extraordinary 6-day Himalayan adventure. The memories of golden sunrises over Dhaulagiri, blooming rhododendron forests, warm teahouse hospitality, and the welcoming smiles of Gurung villagers will stay with you long after you return home — a testament to the enduring magic of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu.
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Cost Details
What's Included
Accommodation
1 night hotel in Pokhara (Day 1) on twin-sharing basis
4 nights accommodation in comfortable teahouse on twin-sharing basis (Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Ghandruk)
1 night hotel in Pokhara on return (Day 5)
Meals
All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Meals in Pokhara (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Transportation
Private vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara (Day 1)
Sharing vehicle transfer from Pokhara to Nayapul (Day 2)
Sharing jeep/vehicle transfer from Kimche/Ghandruk to Pokhara (Day 5)
Private vehicle transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu (Day 6)
Permits & Entry Fees
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
Poon Hill entry fee
Staff & Services
Experienced, licensed, and English-speaking trekking guide throughout the trek
One porter per two trekkers (carrying up to 15 kg of luggage)
Guide and porter insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment
Pre-trek briefing in Pokhara
Other Inclusions
First aid kit carried by the guide throughout the trek
All necessary trekking paperwork and documentation
Government taxes and service charges
What's Excluded
Travel & Insurance
International airfare to and from Nepal
Domestic flight Kathmandu–Pokhara (optional upgrade — available at additional cost)
Nepal entry visa fee (approx. USD 30 for 15 days / USD 50 for 30 days)
Travel and medical insurance (strongly recommended)
Emergency evacuation or helicopter rescue costs
Personal Expenses
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Extra meals, snacks, tea/coffee, or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Bottled water during the trek
Hot showers, battery charging, and Wi-Fi fees at teahouses
Laundry services
Tips & Gratitude
Tips and gratuities for guide and porter (customary and highly appreciated)
Optional & Extra Activities
Sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara (museum entry fees, boating on Phewa Lake, etc.)
Early departure or late check-out charges at hotels
Any costs arising from natural disasters, political disruptions, or delays beyond our control
Additional nights of accommodation due to personal reasons or unforeseen circumstances
Medical & Miscellaneous
Personal medications and first aid supplies
Altitude sickness medications (e.g., Diamox)
Any expenses not explicitly mentioned under "Cost Includes"
Upcoming Departures
Choose between joining a scheduled group or planning a private, personalized journey for your group.
Useful Information
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu: Difficulty & Fitness Level
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu carries an easy-to-moderate difficulty rating, making it one of the most accessible Himalayan trekking experiences available to international visitors. While no prior trekking experience is required, a reasonable level of physical fitness is strongly recommended, as daily walking hours range from 3 to 7 hours across varied terrain. The most demanding section of the trek is Day 3—the ascent from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani—which involves an elevation gain of approximately 1,320 metres in a single day, including the notorious Ulleri stone staircase. The pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m) on Day 4 also requires early rising and a steep 45-minute ascent by headlamp in cold conditions. That said, the maximum altitude of 3,210 metres remains well below the threshold for serious altitude sickness, making this trek suitable for teenagers, adults, senior citizens, and families with older children. Trekkers are advised to prepare with at least 4 to 6 weeks of cardiovascular training before departure to ensure maximum comfort and enjoyment on the trail.
Best Time to Visit for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu can be undertaken year-round, but the two optimal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures, and excellent mountain visibility, while autumn offers the clearest skies of the year following the monsoon season. Winter (December to February) is a viable option for trekkers who enjoy snow-dusted trails and solitude, though temperatures at Ghorepani and Poon Hill can drop well below freezing. The monsoon season (June to August) is the least recommended period due to heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and reduced mountain visibility, though the landscape is strikingly lush and green for those who embrace the rain.
Permits Required for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Every trekker on the Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu must carry the following permits at all times, as they are checked at official checkposts along the route:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Mandatory entry permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area, obtainable in Kathmandu or Pokhara
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): Trekking registration card issued by the Nepal Tourism Board for trekker safety and tracking
Poon Hill Entry Fee: Small fee collected at the gate before ascending to the Poon Hill viewpoint (approx. NPR 100–200)
Nepal Tourist Visa: Available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (approx. USD 30 for 15 days / USD 50 for 30 days)
Accommodation & Food on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Accommodation throughout the Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu is a blend of comfortable city hotels in Pokhara and traditional mountain teahouses along the trail. In Pokhara, trekkers stay at well-appointed lakeside hotels with modern amenities, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. Along the trek, accommodation is provided in locally owned teahouses and mountain lodges at Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Larger stops like Ghorepani and Ghandruk offer lodges with private rooms and attached bathrooms, while smaller stops provide clean, comfortable shared facilities. The food served at teahouses is hearty and varied, with menus offering both Nepali and international options. Dal bhat—Nepal's iconic meal of steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles—remains the most popular and nutritious choice on the trail, often served in unlimited portions. Other options include noodle soups, pasta, momos, omelettes, pancakes, fried rice, and warming ginger lemon honey tea. Trekkers should carry sufficient Nepali rupees in cash before leaving Pokhara, as no ATMs are available along the trekking route.
Packing List for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Clothing & Layers
Moisture-wicking base layer (top and bottom)
Warm mid-layer fleece or down jacket
Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket
Trekking trousers and thermal innerwear
Warm hat, gloves, and buff/neck gaiter
Comfortable trek socks (at least 3–4 pairs)
Footwear
Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with ankle support
Lightweight camp sandals or flip-flops for teahouse evenings
Gear & Equipment
Comfortable daypack (25–30 litres)
Sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C
Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep descents)
Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for pre-dawn Poon Hill hike)
Reusable water bottle with purification tablets or UV filter pen
Health & Personal Care
Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, and lip balm
Personal first aid kit (blister plasters, bandages, antiseptic)
Altitude sickness medication (Diamox — consult your doctor)
Insect repellent and hand sanitiser
Documents & Miscellaneous
Valid passport and Nepal tourist visa
Trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS Card)
Travel insurance documents
Sufficient cash in Nepali Rupees (NPR)
Camera or smartphone with extra power bank
Health, Safety & Altitude Awareness on the Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu is considered a safe and low-altitude trek with a minimal risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), thanks to its maximum elevation of 3,210 metres and the gradual day-by-day ascent profile built into the itinerary.
Altitude & AMS Risk
The risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) on the Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu is low for most healthy individuals. The itinerary's gradual elevation gain — particularly the additional acclimatization day in Pokhara on Day 1 — allows the body to adjust naturally and comfortably without requiring dedicated rest days. Nevertheless, altitude awareness should always be practised, even on lower-altitude treks.
Key Health & Safety Guidelines
Drink at least 3–4 litres of water daily throughout the trek
Avoid alcohol and smoking on the trail, as both accelerate dehydration at altitude
Maintain a slow, steady pace—never rush uphill sections or try to push beyond your comfort zone
Descend immediately if symptoms such as persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, or loss of coordination appear
Eat regular, nutritious meals and never skip breakfast before long trekking days
Carry personal medications and a basic first aid kit at all times
Consult your physician before the trek if you have pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illness, or severe joint problems
Follow your guide's instructions at all times. They are trained to recognise and respond to altitude-related symptoms and trail emergencies
Preparation Tips for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Proper preparation ensures a safe, comfortable, and deeply rewarding experience on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu. The additional travel days built into this package give trekkers a natural advantage in terms of acclimatization and recovery, but physical and logistical preparation in the weeks leading up to departure remains essential.
Begin cardiovascular training at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure — jogging, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking for 30–45 minutes daily
Incorporate stair climbing and hill walking to prepare your legs and knees for the Ulleri stone staircase
Practice long-distance walking with a loaded backpack (5–8 kg) to simulate trail conditions
Break in your trekking boots thoroughly before departure to avoid blisters on the trail
Spend at least one full day acclimatizing in Pokhara before beginning the trek (built into Day 1 of this itinerary)
Research and understand the symptoms of AMS so you can identify and respond to them quickly
Download offline maps of the Annapurna region (Maps.me or Gaia GPS) as a navigation backup
Withdraw sufficient Nepali Rupees in Kathmandu or Pokhara before heading to the trailhead
Inform a trusted contact at home of your full itinerary and expected return date
Pack light. Unecessary weight is one of the leading causes of fatigue and injury on the Poon Hill Trek
Travel Insurance for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
Comprehensive travel insurance for trekking in Nepal is an absolute necessity for every participant on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu. Given the combination of overland travel, mountain trekking, and remote teahouse stays involved in this package, a standard travel policy is unlikely to provide adequate coverage. It is essential to select a policy that explicitly covers high-altitude trekking and adventure activities up to at least 4,000 metres and includes emergency helicopter evacuation, which can cost between USD 1,500 and USD 5,000 or more in the Annapurna region. Your travel insurance for the Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu should cover the following:
Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
Emergency helicopter evacuation and rescue costs
Trip cancellation or curtailment due to illness or unforeseen events
Loss or theft of personal belongings, trekking gear, and travel documents
Flight delays and missed connections (including domestic Kathmandu–Pokhara flights)
Personal liability coverage
Repatriation in the event of a fatality
Always carry a printed and digital copy of your insurance policy, emergency contact number, and policy number, and share these details with your guide before the trek begins.
Budget & Money Matters for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu costs and represents exceptional value for a complete Nepal trekking package that covers overland transport, accommodation, meals, permits, guide, and porter services across 6 days. All transactions along the trekking route are cash-only in Nepali Rupees (NPR), and no ATMs are available beyond Pokhara, so it is essential to withdraw adequate funds before departing for the trail. Typical out-of-pocket travel expenses include
Bottled water (NPR 100–300 per bottle, increasing with altitude)
Hot showers at teahouses (approx. NPR 200–500 per use)
Wi-Fi charges (approx. NPR 100–300 per session)
Battery and device charging (approx. NPR 200–400 per charge)
Extra snacks, tea, and coffee not included in the meal plan
Tips for your guide (recommended USD 10–15 per day) and porter (USD 7–10 per day)
Optional domestic flight upgrade Kathmandu–Pokhara (approx. USD 100–120 one way)
Souvenirs and handicrafts from village shops in Ghandruk and Ghorepani
Responsible Trekking & Eco-Tourism on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu passes entirely through the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), Nepal's largest and most biodiverse protected zone, home to snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, and over 450 bird species. As a responsible trekker committed to sustainable trekking in Nepal, your actions on and off the trail have a direct impact on the long-term health of this extraordinary ecosystem and the communities that depend on it.
Carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets to minimise single-use plastic waste
Dispose of all rubbish at designated bins or carry it out—never litter on the trail
Stick to marked trails to prevent soil erosion and protect fragile alpine vegetation
Support local communities by staying at locally-owned teahouses and buying handmade crafts from village artisans
Walk clockwise around mani walls and chortens in respect of local Buddhist traditions
Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering monasteries or religious spaces
Always ask permission before photographing local residents or religious sites
Avoid giving money or sweets to children and support registered local schools or community organisations instead
Follow Leave No Trace principles throughout the entire trek and encourage fellow trekkers to do the same