Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek - 11 Days

Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek - 11 Days
  • Duration11 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Maximum Altitude 3,210 m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Size 1+
  • Meals Teahouse
  • Best Season March to May and September to December

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking is a popular and relatively short adventure that can be completed in less than a week. This trek takes you through beautiful forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir trees, offering constant views of majestic snow-capped peaks.

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek provides trekkers with the opportunity to experience stunning scenery in the proximity of the Annapurna Himalayas. This trek is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds, making it a fantastic choice for a Himalayan getaway. Starting from the picturesque city of Pokhara, a renowned tourist destination, the trek showcases the natural beauty of snow-covered mountains and lakes, surrounded by lush green hills.

The journey begins with a short drive from Pokhara to the starting point in Bhirethati village. The trail leads uphill, passing by charming waterfalls and rural farm villages. As the path gradually ascends to Ulleri, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of the Annapurna Peaks. The trail then winds through enchanting rhododendron and pine forests to reach the serene Ghorepani village, located at the base of Poon Hill.

An early morning hike to Poon Hill, the highest point of the trek at 3,210 meters, rewards you with a breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views of the Annapurna range. The stunning vista includes the world's three highest mountains: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu, along with the prominent Machhapuchare Himal, also known as the Fish-Tail Peak.

Continuing the adventure, the trail takes you uphill to Deurali, then descends and ascends to Tadapani. The ever-present backdrop of the Annapurna Himalayas accompanies you on this journey. Passing through Ghandruk, a large Gurung village that serves as a gateway to various trekking routes around the Annapurna region, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and customs of the Gurung people, who follow a blend of Buddhism and the ancient Bon religion.

The trek concludes in Ghandruk, from where you'll drive back to Pokhara. This memorable trek through the high and scenic hills of the Annapurna Himalayas offers a wonderful experience of nature and culture.

 

Best Season for Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek

The ideal times for undertaking the Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn to early winter (September to November until December).

During the spring season, which spans from March to May, the mornings to mid-days offer clear skies and pleasant walking conditions, although late afternoons might witness some cloudiness. Mornings and late afternoons can be cold, with occasional snowfall. The hills come alive during spring with vibrant wildflowers, including various species of rhododendron, which is also the national flower of Nepal.

Autumn and early winter, from September to November until December, offer the best visibility and picturesque trails. Days are marked by clear skies, although the sunlight hours are shorter. There is a possibility of snowfall at times, and mornings and nights are notably colder due to the wind-chill factor.

Nepal has four distinct seasons: spring, summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February). While Nepal can be visited year-round for tours and short hikes, high-altitude treks are not recommended. However, if you're interested in exploring the exotic flora and fauna, Nepal becomes a haven for botanists and naturalists.

Accommodations and Food on Annapurna Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek

Accommodation and dining arrangements during the Annapurna Poon Hill – Ghandruk Trek are well-organized. Throughout the trek, you will be accommodated in the finest local lodges from the beginning to the end of the journey. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, comfortable hotels will be arranged.

The lodges and hotels provide a diverse menu catering to your preferences, ranging from traditional Nepalese Dal-Bhat to Continental dishes, along with options from Chinese, Tibetan, and Indian cuisines. All meals are prepared with care, ensuring freshness and hygiene. The meals are served in spacious dining halls that offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

 

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is not a major concern on this trek, as the route involves a gradual ascent in elevation and a gradual descent back to Pokhara, which is situated at an altitude of 820 meters.

In Nepal's Himalayas, emergency evacuation services are readily available, including helicopter services that can swiftly transport affected individuals to Kathmandu for further medical attention if necessary.

Permits and TIMS for the Poon Hill Trek:

For the Poon Hill trek, similar to other treks within the sanctuary, you are required to obtain permits and a TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System). These can be acquired at the Tourist Information Center in either Pokhara or Kathmandu. The offices operate from Monday to Friday and Sunday, between 10 am and 5 pm, and remain closed on Saturdays. The cost for these permits is NPR 5000/US$38.

To secure the TIMS card and Annapurna Sanctuary permit, you will need the following documents: your passport, insurance details, four passport-sized photos, and the contact details of a person in Nepal (typically provided by your hotel).

Here's the process to obtain the TIMS card:

1. Fill out the form available at the counter. This form will require information such as your name, insurance number, passport details, address in Nepal, and contact information.
2. Take a passport-sized photo. In the Pokhara Office, they provide this service on-site at no additional cost. You'll need four passport-sized photos.
3. Submit the completed form along with two photos and pay the fee of NRP 2000/US$15 per person. Payment is accepted only in cash, in Nepalese Rupees, at the counter.
4. Obtain your TIMS card.

For obtaining the Annapurna Sanctuary Permit:

1. After obtaining your TIMS card, request a new form.
2. Complete the form with the necessary details.
3. Present the filled form, your passport, two photos, and pay the fee of NRP 3000/US$23 per person. Payments are accepted only in cash, in Nepalese Rupees, at the counter.
4. Receive your permit.

It's important to note that both the TIMS card and permits are valid for a single entry into the Annapurna Sanctuary Park. If you exit the park, you'll need to obtain new permits and a new TIMS card to re-enter. If you plan to undertake multiple hikes within the sanctuary, it's economically advantageous to stay within the park.

Travel and Medical Insurance

For such unforeseen circumstances, it is essential for trekkers to have comprehensive insurance coverage that includes medical emergencies and the use of helicopter services for evacuation if required.

It's highly recommended for all travelers embarking on the Nepal Himalayan trek have adequate Travel and Medical Insurance that encompasses potential accidents and illnesses. This insurance should also account for helicopter rescue services to transfer individuals to safe locations and nearby medical facilities if needed.

 

Highlights
  • Sunrise views of the Himalayas from Poon hill
  • Get to know many things about Gurung culture. Visit to Gurung museum, Dress like Gurung people.
  • Uphill steps at Ulleri
  • Mesmerizing views of Annapurna & Dhaulagiri Ranges from Poon Hill
  • Lake City of Pokhara Trekking through the Rhododendron Forests
  • Warm Hospitality from the local indigenous tribes
Itinerary

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), our representative will welcome you at the appearance gate. Then you’ll be transferred to your hotel, and our staff will explain to you briefly about the upcoming schedule. If your flight is in the morning or the early afternoon, we’ll take you to the heritage walk via Ason, Indra Chowk, Makhan, and other old parts of the town. We’ll also visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a World Heritage Site. There are several temples, castles, and a famous Statue of Hanuman, the Monkey God. Overnight in Kathmandu Hotel. BB

 

    Before leaving Annapurna Panorama Treks, we prepare for the trek and pre-trip meeting and introduce you to the crew members. Overnight in Hotel. BB

      Every day, at 7.00 am, the tourist bus leaves for Pokhara (200 km), a drive of 6-7 hrs. The drive to Pokhara is scenic in the hilly region of Nepal. You’ll see snow-capped mountains, rivers, villages, and green hills. The tourist bus stops twice in between, and we have some excellent restaurants for lunch. After checking in at the Hotel and resting, we walked around the Few Lake and visited the monastery, the Tibetan Refugee Camp, and the waterfalls. We also make our final preparation for the Annapurna panorama Trek. Overnight in Pokhara. FB

       

        After breakfast, we pack our luggage and day pack; then we drive to Nayapool, which takes about a one-hour gentle drive (42 km). Now, the trek begins. Trek to Birethanti, Sudame, Hile, & Thikhedhunga. The villages on the way look clean and scenic. After Thikhedhunga, the trail goes steep up for an hour and a half to Ulleri (1960 m). Overnight in a guesthouse. FB

         

          We are trekking from the middle of the beautiful village of Ulleri. At the same time, we can enjoy the views of fishtails from many different angles. We enter a small town called Banthati(2210 m). Then we walk through the forest; most trees are rhododendron, oaks, etc. We may also see some wild animals, mainly monkeys. Thus, trekking through natural streams of crystal clear water, we reach Nangethati(2430 m), where we can probably have lunch. Trek again through nature to Ghorepani. Overnight in a guesthouse. FB

           

            We make an early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise views. The changing color over the highest peaks in central Nepal, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and many more mountains, is mesmerizing. After having breakfast, trek down to Ghorepani. We continue walking to Banthati and Tadapani. Today’s trek would be a bit difficult if the trail is covered with snow or rainy. Overnight in a guesthouse. FB

             

              Ghandruk is the most beautiful village entire Annapurna region. Most of the inhabitants are local ethnic groups, the Gurungs, and the famous Gurkha soldiers Brahmin, Chhetri, Kami, and Damai are in the community. Many of the Gurungs are still working in Indian and British Gurkha regiments. Ghandruk is the high-density settlement before the Annapurna Base Camp. There are checkpoints of ACAP. We will take you to the Gurung museum, Monastery, and temples. We can have a Village tour around the Ghandruk village, with mesmerizing views of mountains, and rice fields, Overnight in a guesthouse. FB

               

                Trek fromGhandruk to Pothan is steeply down till the Modi River. Look at the beehives on the cliff by the river. After crossing the river, we ascend to Landruk, and the trail is flat till the bottom of Tolka. Villages like Landruk and Tolka are very much rich in Gurung culture. Trek over to Deurali would have been worth resting on the ridge, with great views of the surrounding mountains and lake city Pokhara and descending to Pothana - another attraction of Gurung Heritages. Enjoy the incredible views of Fishtail Mountain and Pokhara Valley. Overnight in a guesthouse. FB

                 

                  Descend gradually to Dhamphus Village, another beautiful Village of completely greenery paddy fields. The community forest is another attraction. There are also motorable roads and schools in Dhampus. We continue descending to Dhamphus Phedi and catch our vehicle. A drive of 30 minutes takes us to Pokhara. Arriving in Pokhara, we can enjoy many sorts of activities like boating, fishing, visiting waterfalls, monasteries, Tibetan refugee settlements, etc. Overnight in a hotel. FB

                   

                    If interested, you can make some sightseeing tours around Pokhara. Otherwise, drive or fly back to Kathmandu.

                      The departure day. If you have an evening flight, we’ll take you to cultural places during the day. Then our representative will drop you at the Tribhuwan International Airport for your onward flight.

                        Key Information:

                        - This expedition is available for departure every day throughout the year.
                        - The trip can be tailored to your specific preferences and requirements. Feel free to reach out to us to discuss customization.
                        - You have the option to join a fixed departure group or create a private group for this trip.
                        - If you're traveling solo, with your family, or with a private group, you can book this trip privately.
                        - For larger groups, we are equipped to assist according to your group size.
                        - We are flexible in adapting the trip to your budget constraints.
                        - We offer the convenience of instant booking and secure online payment options.

                         

                         

                        Cost Details
                        Includes
                        • All airport/hotel transfers
                        • 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu, 2 nights in Pokhara
                        • All accommodations and meals during the trek
                        • Pickup and drop to start your trek and from the ending point to your Hotel In Kathmandu or your destination
                        • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (6 trekkers:1 assistant guide), and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
                        • All Nepal Hiking duffel bags and trekking maps (to be returned after trip completion)
                        • All necessary paperwork and permits (National Park permit, TIMS)
                        • A comprehensive medical kit
                        • All government and local taxes
                        Excludes
                        • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary
                        • Travel Insurance
                        • International airfare
                        • Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.)
                        • Alcoholic, non-alcoholic drinks and water, soft drinks, etc.
                        • Hot showers during the trek
                        • Personal trekking equipment
                        • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is respected but it is not obligatory)
                        • Sleeping bags and down jacket ( can be rented)
                        Departure Dates
                        Select a Departure Month
                        Trip Date PriceStatus 
                        Start DateStartsDec 19, 2024End DateEndsDec 29, 2024PriceUS$699StatusAvailable
                        Start DateStartsDec 21, 2024End DateEndsDec 31, 2024PriceUS$699StatusAvailable
                        Start DateStartsDec 26, 2024End DateEndsJan 05, 2025PriceUS$699StatusAvailable
                        Start DateStartsDec 29, 2024End DateEndsJan 08, 2025PriceUS$699StatusAvailable
                        FAQs
                        • Nepal is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the mighty Himalayas, picturesque valleys, and diverse ecosystems. Trekking in Nepal offers the opportunity to experience breathtaking mountain views, explore remote villages, encounter rich cultural heritage, and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region.

                        • The best time for trekking in Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months provide stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making for comfortable trekking conditions. However, some treks can be done in the winter (December to February) and monsoon seasons (June to August), but they come with different challenges and considerations.

                        • es, trekking permits are required for most trekking areas in Nepal. The permits help regulate and manage trekking activities and ensure the safety of trekkers. The specific permits required depend on the region you plan to trek in. For popular treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, you'll need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, while certain areas, such as Upper Mustang and Manaslu, require special restricted area permits.

                        • Choosing a trekking route depends on factors such as your fitness level, trekking experience, time available, and personal preferences. Popular trekking routes include Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Research different treks, consider their difficulty, length, altitude, and scenery, and consult with local trekking agencies or experienced trekkers to make an informed decision.

                        • Trekking in Nepal requires a moderate to good level of fitness. Most treks involve several hours of walking each day, ascending and descending trails, and adapting to varying altitudes. Regular exercise, such as hiking, walking, or cardiovascular activities, before your trek can help build stamina and prepare your body for the physical demands of trekking.

                        • To stay safe while trekking in Nepal, it's essential to acclimatize properly to higher altitudes, stay hydrated, follow a gradual ascent, and listen to your body. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit, trek with a reliable map or guide, and be aware of weather conditions. Register with the local authorities or trekking agencies, inform someone of your trekking plans, and consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trekking activities.