He is extremely knowledgeable of the region and the various villages and places we stayed and provided a top-notch service to myself and my team. Next porter kamal was also simply amazing. Even though our Porter was lots of fun even though he spoke little English, he still communicated, and was loads of fun. Usually, when I write reviews I give some constructive feedback but I honestly wouldn’t change a thing, it was wonderful. I recommend Well Plan Trekking and this experience but I plan on coming back to Everest Base camp Trek.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek Trip Overview
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek is a short, nine-day experience of one of Nepal’s most iconic mountain moments that helps you to understand why trekking transforms people. You’ll drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, trek through rhododendron forests to the mountain village, climb Poon Hill (3,210 meters), and watch the entire Annapurna range light up as the sun rises. After that, you’ll descend through Ghandruk village, where traditional stone architecture and terraced fields show you how mountain communities actually live and by day 9, you’ll be back in Kathmandu. This trek works for people with limited vacation time, first-time trekkers testing their limits, and experienced mountaineers wanting a quick mountain fix.
Major Highlights of Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek
- Enjoy the Himalayan sunrise viewpoint with panoramic peak views at Poon Hill (3,210m).
- Enjoy close mountain views from the ridge of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs.
- Walk through Rhododendron forests, which turn into pink and white blooms in the spring season.
- Observe an authentic Gurung settlement with stone houses and agriculture at Ghandruk village.
- Enjoy the Modi River valley views, which is a scenic river landscape on descent.
- Visit Ghorepani, which is a mountain hub village with local character and tea house culture.
- watching light transform the mountains during sunrise.
- Observe three distinct elevations: valley, forest, and alpine zones.
- Trek through accessible altitudes with no extreme elevation and suitable for varied fitness levels.
- Enjoy a forest descent through biodiversity zones.
Poon Hill and Why People Wake at 4 AM
Poon Hill is famous for a reason. Before dawn on day 5, you’ll leave your tea house in Ghorepani with a headlamp, climb by darkness, and reach the summit around sunrise. The hike is steep, your legs might have been tired from previous days, and the air is cold. But then the sun touches the eastern horizon, and everything changes. The Annapurna range, with multiple 7,000 and 8,000-meter peaks, turns from gray silhouettes to golden sculptures. The light moves across the mountains, creating layers of color that photographs rarely capture accurately. Other trekkers will be there, and Poon Hill can be crowded at sunrise, but the experience transcends crowds. Standing at 3,210 meters, watching the Himalayas wake up is transformative. Most trekkers say this single moment justifies the entire trek. It’s why people wake up before dawn, why they push through tired legs, and why they remember this trek years later.
Ghandruk: A Village Where Culture Lives
Ghandruk is a Gurung village that has maintained its character despite being on trekking routes. This trek takes you through this beautiful village. Traditional stone houses cluster on a hillside, women work terraced fields, children walk to school, and the community functions much like it has for centuries. Walking through Ghandruk is an observation of actual mountain life. In Ghandruk, Tea house owners are genuinely hospitable, and you’ll meet locals who ask questions about where you’re from, who share stories about their families and farming. Spending time in Ghandruk adds human depth to the mountain experience.
The Ulleri Stone Steps
The Ulleri stone steps have over 3600 stone steps ascending from Nayapul toward Ghorepani. You’ll trek through Ulleri stone on the third day of your trek. Trekkers often describe this day as harder than any other day. But there’s something meditative about stone steps as they give your feet a defined path. They’re built by hand, and they’re still used daily by locals carrying goods. By reaching the top at Ulleri, you’ll have earned your arrival. The views from Ulleri reward the effort as you see the Modi River valley below and the mountains ahead.
Nine Days to Change Your Perspective
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek proves that mountain transformation doesn’t require weeks of commitment. Nine days starting from Kathmandu to Poon Hill sunrise to Gurung villages and back with delivers experiences that shift how you see yourself and mountains. It’s perfect for people testing trekking before committing to longer routes, for anyone with limited vacation time, and for trekkers wanting quick mountain immersion. Contact us today with your preferred dates, and we’ll arrange everything: driving, guides, accommodation, and permits. Your job is to train for a few weeks, prepare mentally, and show up ready.
Why Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek with Us ?
We’ve guided a lot of people on this route, and it’s one of the most popular treks for good reason. Our guides know every tea house, every viewpoint, and how to pace different trekker fitness levels. We monitor the weather and adjust timing if needed to maximize Poon Hill sunrise quality. Our porters and guides are well-paid and respected. We believe short treks can be profound and this nine-day journey delivers mountain transformation without extreme commitment.
| Day | Destination | Sleep altitude | Duration | Distance | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Kathmandu | 1345 M | 30 min | 7 km | Airport transfer, hotel check-in, trek briefing |
| 02 | Pokhara | 820 M | 6-7 hrs | 200 Km | Scenic drive, transfer to hotel near Phewa Lake, leisure walk |
| 03 | Ulleri | 2040 M | 6-7 hrs | 45 Km | Drive via Modi River, stone steps ascent, village views |
| 04 | Gorepani | 2845 m | 65-6 hrs | 12 Km | Forest trail, rhododendron woods, Dhaulagiri & Annapurna views |
| 05 | Tadapani | 2680 M | 7-8 hrs | 15 Km | Sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), panoramic Himalayan views, forest walk |
| 06 | Gandruk | 1460 M | 3-5 hrs | 10 Km | Downhill forest trail, terraced fields, Gurung village exploration |
| 07 | Pokhara | 820 m | 6-7 hr | 45 Kms | Riverside walk along the Modi River, drive to Pokhara |
| 09 | Kathmandu | 1345 M | 6-7 hrs | 200 Kmm | Scenic return drive |
| 09 | Depathure | 30 Min | 7 KM | Transfer to the airport for onward flight |
Trip Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and then transfer to respective Hotels
- Distance : 7 Km
- Duration : 30 Minutes drive to hotel
- Max. Altitude :1,345 m
On reaching Kathmandu via respective airlines well received by company guides and staff for a short drive in the hub of Kathmandu city where your hotels are located.After checking into your lovely rooms and getting refreshed join in at the Hotel lobby for a group briefing regarding treks and other useful information to make your stay in Nepal enjoyable and pleasant. The evening includes a group welcome dinner in nice Nepalese restaurants with cultural programs as entertainment with dinner.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include:
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara
- Distance : 200 km
- Duration : 7 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude :860 m.
Pun Hill Annapurna Panorama Trekking begins with the overland drive to Nepal Mid-West taking a comfortable coach or in Tourist Bus to reach scenic Pokhara, a beautiful and leading touristic place in all Himalaya range, with warm sub-tropical temperatures and close views of Annapurna Himalaya with Mt. Machhapuchare ‘Fish Tail’.On reaching Pokhara transfer to respective hotels by the Phewa Lake with views of Annapurna and Machhapuchare peak, afternoon at leisure for short walks around the lakeside.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive beyond Nayapul and trek to Ulleri village
- Distance : 45 Km
- Duration : 7 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,740 m.
Morning departs from the hotel taking a short drive where the journey takes you beyond Pokhara, a valley facing views of Manaslu and Annapurna Himalaya. On reaching Nayapul following Modi River to Bhirethati village from here drive leads further past farm villages and terraced fields to reach Hille on the foothills of Annapurna, where our first-day walk begins heading for high hills on stone steps to reach the nice and lovely village at Ulleri with views of Annapurna peaks. From this small farm village o, ur first-day walk starts heading north with the steep climb on stone-paved steps to Jhinu village located on a high scenic ridge, from this village a short walk downhill leads you to a natural hot spring by the Modi River.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani village
- Distance : 12 km
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
- Max. Altitude :2,845 m
The morning begins heading uphill to reach a ridge above Ulleri and Bhanthati villages, as the walk continues on the gradual winding path into the deep forest covered with tall rhododendron-magnolia-pines-oak and fir trees. Slowly walk climb the higher side of the mid-hills to reach charming Ghorepani village with blue-painted houses serving as lodges for trekkers offering marvelous views of the Dhaulagiri range of peaks with Annapurna Mountain. Ghorepani is situated on the old Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade Route of Nepal and Tibet where the route leads past Upper Mustang to the Tibet Border called Karo-la. A wonderful spot in the midst of tall rhododendron trees, in spring the whole hills turn to magic when rhododendron flowers are in full blooms of different colors.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05: Hike Pun Hill and continue walking to Tadapani
- Distance : 15 Km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :2,680 m
Early morning hike for an hour or more uphill to Pun Hill on the highest spot of the adventure at above 3,210 m high offering striking sunrise views over a panorama of peaks that includes the Dhaulagiri-Tukuche-Nilgiris-Annapurna and Manaslu range of mountains with majestic Machhapuchare Himal ‘Fish Tail peak’.Enjoying breathtaking super views of mountains with sunrise head back to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue trek heading uphill into rhododendron forest with fantastic views of peaks and then downhill with the last climb to reach Tadapani, located in the midst of a forest with superb views.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk villages
- Distance : 10 km
- Duration : 4 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,460 m
From Tadapani morning walk leads downhill into the mist-filled forest to reach terraced farm fields above Ghandruk village, one of the major and large Gurung villages of Annapurna areas.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07: Trek to Nayapul then drive back to Pokhara 860 m 5-hour walk and 1-hour drive
- Distance : 55 km
- Duration : 5 to 7 hours
- Max. Altitude : 860 m
This is our last day walk through the scenic landscapes and local villages to get down to the Syalui Bazar rattled on the riverbank of Modi. The walk is pleasant most of the way following the Modi River until Birethanthi and an easy trek to Nayapul. Our adventure ends here and we drive back to Pokhara for the overnight.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 08: From Pokhara drive to Kathmandu
- Distance : 200 Km
- Duration : 7 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,345 m
After a wonderful time in the high mountains and hills, taking a morning driving journey back to Kathmandu, on reaching Kathmandu after 5-6 hours of nice interesting drive, transfer to respective hotels with the afternoon free at leisure or last day shopping souvenirs and handicrafts. (Options by air 30 minutes flight back to Kathmandu with great views)
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Day 09: International Departure for Homeward Bound.
- Distance : 7 Km
- Duration : 30 Minutes transfer to airport
- Max. Altitude :
Last day in Nepal in the country of high Himalayan mountains with fascinating culture, after a memorable time on Pun Hill Annapurna Panorama Trekking with wonderful adventure and experience, as per your international flight time our staff transfers you to the airport for the flight homeward bound or to your next p
- Accommodation:
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Cost Details
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICE
- Airport Pick up & drop by private car in Kathmandu
- Pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before the trek
- 2 Nights Accommodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast
- 2 Night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
- 3 Times Meals with Cup of Tea Or Coffee (Break Fast, Lunch & Dinner)
- All mountain accommodation (Soft, comfortable, private room with shared toilet)
- An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, etc.
- All necessary paperwork and permits (Annapurna Conservation permit and TIMS )
- Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag and a duffel bag (down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag are to be returned after trip completion
- Guide salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
- Strong experienced Sherpa helpers [porters] with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance (one porter for two people )
- All Ground Transportation
- 1 Well Plan Trekking T-shirt
- Daily seasonal fresh fruits as per the availability
- Private transport Pokhara to Naya Pul (trail foot)
- Kathmandu -Pokhara-Kathmandu by tourist bus
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Worst case rescue and medical evacuation arrangements
- All government and local taxes
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the cultural restaurant
THE PACKAGE EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICE
- Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Katmandu).
- Your Travel and rescue insurance.
- Your personal expenses. (Phone call, Laundry service, bar bills, battery recharge, a bottle of water or hot water, shower, etc.) All the alcoholic drinks and bar bills.
- International airfare and airport departure tax.
- Extra Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival or late departure. early arrive from the mountain (due to any reason) Than the scheduled Itinerary
- Services not mentioned in the ‘Cost Included’ section and referred to as ‘optional’
- Kathmandu and Pokhara lunch and Dinner
- Tips for the guide and porter.
Equipment’s
Recommended equipment list
This list is a guide to help you pack for your trip. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel necessary for your comfort and convenience. we also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.
Head
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Upper body
- T-shirts
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Fleece wind –stopper jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket
- Down vest and /or jacket (optional)Hands
- Lightweight gloves (water /windproof)
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower body
- Underwear
- Hiking trousers
- Fleece or woolen trousers
- Lightweight thermal bottoms
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric )shell pants Feet
- Thin lightweight inner socks
- Heavy poly or wool socks
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers and sandals)
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C de 14 degrees F)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)Toiletries
- Toothbrush /paste
- Multi-purpose soap
- Nail clippers
- Deodorants
- Medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Face and body moisturizer
- Small mirror
- Female hygiene products
Personal hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue/toilet roll
- Antibacterial hand wash
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit (simple and light)
- A cough and /or cold medicine
- Anti –altitude sickness pills; Diamox or acetazolamide
- Stomach antibiotic
Extras /luxuries
- Reading book
- Trail map /guidebook
- Journal and pen
- Travel game(chess, backgammon, playing cards etc)
- Modest swimsuit
- Binoculars
- Camera
Trip Map
FAQ
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular treks for several good reasons. The highlight is witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, which is truly an unforgettable experience. The trek is short, typically completed in 4–5 days, making it perfect for those with limited time. It’s also beginner-friendly, affordable, and easily accessible from Pokhara.
Poon Hill is located in the Myagdi District of central Nepal, within the Annapurna Conservation Area. It sits at an elevation of 3,210 meters above sea level, above the popular village of Ghorepani in the Annapurna region.
The best time to witness the spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill is during autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May) when skies are clearest and mountain views are most spectacular.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly treks in Nepal. Daily walks of 4–5 hours on well-maintained trails make it accessible for most healthy individuals regardless of prior trekking experience. The maximum altitude of 3,210 meters at Poon Hill poses minimal altitude sickness risks. The trail is well-marked with plenty of teahouses and facilities along the route.
The maximum altitude reached on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 meters above sea level. Most healthy individuals can comfortably manage these altitudes without prior acclimatization concerns.
Yes, the Poon Hill Trek is one of the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly treks in Nepal. The short duration of 4–5 days, relatively low maximum altitude of 3,210 meters, and well-maintained trails make it perfect for first-time trekkers, older adults, and families with children.
Poon Hill offers one of the most spectacular panoramic mountain views in Nepal. The iconic Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the world’s seventh-highest peak, dominates the western horizon magnificently. The Annapurna massif, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna South are clearly visible to the north. The sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) at 6,993m is another stunning highlight of the panorama. Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak are also visible on clear days.
Two main permits are required for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. First, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), covering entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. Second, the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Both permits can be easily obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board office or in Pokhara before starting your trek.
Accommodation on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is primarily comfortable teahouses and guesthouses run by local Gurung and Magar families. Compared to more remote treks, facilities here are relatively well-developed and comfortable. Rooms are simple with twin beds and basic furnishings, with attached or shared bathrooms available throughout the route. Hot showers are widely available for a small extra fee. Popular stops like Ghorepani offer surprisingly comfortable lodges with decent WiFi connectivity. Carrying a good sleeping bag is still recommended for colder nights.
Food options on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are surprisingly varied and satisfying compared to more remote treks. Teahouses along the route serve both local and international dishes. Dal Bhat remains the most popular and nutritious option, loved for its unlimited refills and energy-boosting qualities. Other common dishes include soups, noodles, pasta, momos, porridge, pancakes, and eggs.
Altitude sickness is a minimal concern on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek due to its relatively low maximum altitude of 3,210 meters. Most healthy individuals can comfortably manage these elevations without significant altitude sickness risks. However, it’s still important to stay well hydrated, ascend gradually, and listen to your body throughout the trek.
Yes, WiFi and mobile network are relatively well available on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek compared to more remote trekking routes. Most teahouses offer WiFi for a small additional fee, though speeds can vary. Connectivity becomes slightly weaker at higher elevations but remains reasonably reliable throughout most of the route. Carrying a Nepali SIM card with mobile data is helpful for consistent connectivity.
While the Poon Hill Trek trail is well-marked and relatively straightforward, hiring a guide and porter is still recommended for a safer and more enjoyable experience. Hiring a porter to carry heavy loads significantly reduces physical strain, making the trek more enjoyable. For families with children and first-time trekkers, especially, having a guide genuinely enhances the overall experience.
Trip Videos
Client Reviews
Steyan
Monika
Nepal is Great! It’s a paradise for all mountain lovers
A well organized 12 days trip with spirituell and cultural highlights in and around Kathmandu and Pokhara, including also Chitwan National Park and two easy treks. From picking up at the Airport to the farewell dinner in the end my group hat very good experiences. Ram and his Guide Pradeep did a amazing job. Thank you so much 🙏
Estefanía H
We did the Everest Base case trip and the three passes. Ram was always taking care of us and he managed to get everything we needed as soon as possible. We had many discrepancies from the original plan due to illnesses and he was always open to making the needed changes and flexibilize it. We couldn’t choose the best company for our trip.
Moreover, our guide, Raju, was also a five-star guide: always open to our demands, well known every hotel, place and hike.Very happy with them, Source Tripadvisor
Manish
I recently completed the Annapurna Base Camp trek and couldn’t say enough about my experience. The experience itself was amazing and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our lead guide, Ram, was extraordinary!! The trekking wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t that hard, and the spectacular views around each corner meant I hardly thought about the walking. OK, we had perfect weather, which helped; it even snowed while we were at Annapurna Base Camp.
Mani
Annapurna Base Camp Trekking
Madageskar
Хочу выразить благодарность агентству Well Plan Trekking и лично директору Ram за оперативную организацию незабываемого , насыщенного путешествия по удивительному Непалу! За две недели мы прошли красивейший трек к базовому лагерю Аннапурны , побывали на сафари в джунглях Читвана, посетили дочтопримечательности Катманду! Четкая организация перемещений и ночевкок, внимательный и ответственный гид, прекрасные портеры, без которых наш подьем был бы крайне затруднительным, а так же дружеское участие и проводы на Родину).
Желаю дальнейшего развития и процветания !
Непал 22 апреля-6 мая 2019г.
С уважением, Елена & K°.
Kristin Bolton
Everest Base camp trek is unforgettable experience and adventure of a lifetime. My and my husband we went for two weeks trek with our guide Sanjay .This trip wouldn’t be so great without Sanjay . He took care of us and our health. We felt safe and supported for all of the time. When I had a bad day he checked oxygen level in my blood and assured me that everything is fine. He was also checking regularly if we drink enough water which is very important when you are at the high altitude. We are planning another trek and will definitely be going with Well plan Trekking and insisting on Sanjay as our guide!
Kristin Bolton
Everest Base camp trek is an unforgettable experience and adventure of a lifetime. My and my husband we went for two weeks trek with our guide Sanjay. This trip wouldn’t be so great without Sanjay. He took care of us and our health. We felt safe and supported for all of the time. When I had a bad day he checked oxygen level in my blood and assured me that everything is fine. He was also checking regularly if we drink enough water which is very important when you are at a high altitude. We are planning another trek and will definitely be going with Well plan Trekking and insisting on Sanjay as our guide!
Kate Vogel
Well Plan Trekking the Himalaya was an incredible experience before I even stepped foot in Nepal. Ram was able to reschedule my Annapurna Base Camp Trek trip due to a family function, and there was nearly no lag time in email response and confirmation. The cultural exposure and guide within the World Heritage sights throughout Kathmandu Valley was exceptional in the days up to the trek. While I was planning to trek in a group, I ended up being the only one (single female) with guide sanjaya . I felt safe with them the entire time; respectful and incredibly accommodating with my short bout of altitude sickness. Yam’s knowledge of the region is unparalleled. I am so grateful to have had him as my guide Sanjaya. This organization is one I will readily support again in future trips to Nepal, both for their hospitality, giving back to the community and nation, and unrivaled experience of Nepali Himals and culture.
jojo
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Well Plan Trekking arranged an amazing trip to Annapurna Base Camp Trek.The trek itself was so beautiful and so challenging. Our guide Ram and assistant guide, Kamal was amazing. They worked tirelessly on the trail, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and after hours to make sure each of us had what we needed for a successful trek. Ram monitored our oxygen and heart rates as we climbed in elevation and he helped to manage other symptoms that travelers had including gastrointestinal issues, headaches from altitude, and cold symptoms. He made sure we stayed hydrated and ate appropriate meals for optimum energy. Ram is much more than a ‘guide.’ He and Kamal paced the group but were also willing to go at the pace needed by the slowest trekkers on any given day. I thank Well Plan Trekking and the whole team very much and can highly recommend Well Plan Trekking for all kind of trekking in the amazing Himalaya.
Wonderful winter Manaslu circuit Trek