Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek: A Himalayan Sunrise for the Soul

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be formally greeted by our representative with a traditional welcome. You will be assisted with a seamless transfer to your comfortable 3-star hotel located in the vibrant Thamel district, known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and cultural sites.

In the evening, you will attend a welcome dinner at a authentic local restaurant. This is not only an introduction to Nepali cuisine but also serves as your official trek briefing. Your lead guide will outline the itinerary, discuss safety protocols, and answer any questions about the upcoming journey into the Annapurna foothills.

Today is dedicated to exploring Kathmandu's profound cultural heritage. Your guided tour includes the sacred Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati River, the immense and spiritually significant Boudhanath Stupa—one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal—and the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), which offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.

You will also visit the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples that showcase exquisite Newari architecture. The afternoon is reserved for practical preparations: finalizing the necessary trekking permits and conducting a thorough gear check with your guide to ensure you are fully equipped for the trail.

You will travel to the picturesque city of Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna range. Opt for a breathtaking 25-minute flight that offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, or a scenic 6-7 hour drive that winds through river valleys, terraced farms, and traditional villages, providing a glimpse into rural Nepali life.

Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the serene ambiance of Fewa Lake. You can take a peaceful boat ride on the lake, visit the Tal Barahi Temple located on an island, or simply relax at a lakeside cafe while admiring the reflection of the majestic Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountain on the water.

A private jeep will take you on a scenic 4-5 hour drive along winding mountain roads, following the Modi Khola River. You will pass through the lively bazaar of Birethanti, a key checkpoint for trekking permits, and continue to the road head near Ulleri.

Ulleri is a large Magar village perched on a mountainside, famous for its extensive stone staircases. This is your first introduction to mountain lodge life. The village offers captivating views of the Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks, and provides a genuine insight into the culture of the Magar community, one of Nepal's prominent ethnic groups.

The trail today is a steady ascent through some of the most beautiful forests in the region. You will climb through magnificent rhododendron forests, which burst into a spectacle of color during the spring bloom. The path is a classic stone staircase, weaving its way uphill.

You will pass through the small hamlets of Banthanti and Nangethanti before reaching Ghorepani. The name Ghorepani translates to 'horse-water,' a relic from its past as a crucial resting point for mule caravans. This bustling village is situated on a high ridge, offering your first grand, panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

This morning, you will wake before dawn for a 45-minute climb to the summit of Poon Hill. This is the iconic highlight of the trek. As the sun rises, it illuminates a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic vista of the Himalayas, including the colossal Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the entire Annapurna massif, the distinct Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Nilgiri. The play of light on the snow-capped peaks is a truly unforgettable spectacle.

After descending to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast, you continue your journey. The trail traverses high ridges adorned with prayer flags and plunges into deep, mossy rhododendron forests. The path leads you to Tadapani, a small village whose name means 'far water.' The lodge here offers intimate and stunning close-up views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South.

The trail from Tadapani is a pleasant descent through a lush forest of rhododendron and oak. You will likely spot various bird species and may even encounter troops of monkeys along the way.

Your destination is Ghandruk, one of the largest and most picturesque Gurung villages in Nepal. It is a model village for tourism, with neatly paved stone paths and traditional slate-roofed houses built on steep terraces. A visit to the local Gurung Museum offers fascinating insights into the culture, history, and military traditions (notably the Gurkhas) of the Gurung people. The village provides a dramatic, head-on view of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli.

After a final mountain breakfast in Ghandruk, a private jeep will drive you back to Pokhara. The journey takes you down through the Modi Khola valley, retracing the route back to civilization.

Upon checking into your hotel in Pokhara, the remainder of the day is free to relax and celebrate the completion of your trek. You may choose to enjoy a well-deserved Ayurvedic massage, do some souvenir shopping along the lakeside, or simply unwind with a coffee while enjoying the tranquil lake views.

Today, you will explore the natural and cultural wonders of Pokhara on a guided tour. Visit the World Peace Pagoda, a massive Buddhist stupa on a hilltop offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. You will also see Devi's Fall, a fascinating waterfall that vanishes into an underground tunnel, and the Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred cave with a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The tour also includes a visit to the Bindhyabasini Temple, an important Hindu shrine. In the evening, a special farewell dinner awaits you, accompanied by a vibrant cultural show featuring traditional Nepali music and dance, celebrating the rich heritage of the country.

You will return to Kathmandu via your chosen mode of transport. The flight provides a quick and scenic return, while the drive allows for last glimpses of the countryside.

The afternoon is free for last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel or for personal relaxation. In the evening, you will gather for a final farewell dinner with your trekking guide and group, sharing stories and reflecting on the incredible experiences of the Annapurna Poon Hill trek.

After breakfast, our services conclude with a timely transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. As you leave, you carry with you not only souvenirs but also the profound memories of Himalayan panoramas, the warmth of Nepali hospitality, and the personal accomplishment of completing one of the world's most beautiful treks.