Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 7 days

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 7 days


Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek takes you to the foothills of the Annapurna mountains within a short time. The route is easy and ideal for novice trekkers and families traveling with kids. Hike past terraced paddy fields and rhododendron forests. Walk alongside mule trains and horses. Stay overnight at traditional teahouses run by local families. Experience a magical sunrise and Himalayan panorama from Poon Hill, the most popular viewpoint in the Annapurna Region.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers you some of the best views of the Himalayan range. Within a short span of over a week, you get to walk under the foothills of the sacred Annapurnas. Enjoy close-up views of the snow-capped peaks. Walk along a trail dotted with traditional Gurung and Magar villages, home to brave Gurkha soldiers. Experience their unique culture and enjoy their warm hospitality. With Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) guarding the trail, make your way across forests of pine and rhododendron. A spring trek will have you walking along paths splashed with red and pink rhododendron blooms.

A short drive from Pokhara brings you to a world of mountains and terraced farmlands. Stone staircases lead you past villages with charming traditional mud and stone cottages. On the fourth day, you ascend Poon Hill from Ghorepani. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the Annapurna Massif. Walk along ancient mountain trails.

In addition, a visit to Ghanddruk, a Gurung heritage village, will let you immerse yourself in Gurung culture and let you savor more of the inspiring Himalayan views. Finally, end your Ghorepani Trek with an easy descent to Kimchi and an inspiring drive to Pokhara. The week-long Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek itinerary is ideal for those seeking a Himalayan adventure within a short time frame. You get close to the Himalayan mountains without exerting yourself too much.

Ghorepani Trek is also a perfect introductory trek for beginners and families who have never trekked in the Himalayas before. Our experienced guide will be there to guide you and make your Annapurna adventure a safe and memorable one.

Are you gearing up for more challenging trials? Suppose you have already done this trek and are looking for some challenging options. In that case, we recommend you try out our other Annapurna treks, viz, Annapurna Base camp Trek-11 days, Annapurna Circuit Trek-16 days, Annapurna Sanctuary Trek-13 days, Mardi Himal Trek - 9 days, and Khopra Ridge Trek - 10 days. 

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

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Trip Highlights

  • Majestic views of Annapurna Massif from Poon Hill and other places en route
  • Magical sunrise view of the Himalayan range from Poon Hill
  • Visit Gurung and Magar traditional villages 
  • Experience unique Himalayan culture and hospitality during your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
  • Tread on centuries-old mountain trails
  • Walk through one of the biggest rhododendron forests
  • Visit Ghandruk, a Gurung Heritage village

Is This Trip Suitable For You?

  • Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an easy trek that takes you close to the Himalayan mountains within a short timeframe. Ideal for beginners and families traveling with kids (6 years and above. If the kids feel tired en route, the porters can carry them.). 
  • You need to be reasonably fit. If you hike regularly or can climb stairs without any difficulty, you can easily do this trek. 
  • There is no risk of altitude sickness as the trail does not go beyond 3,000 meters. The highest point you will reach is the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,210m), where you will be spending only an hour or two. 
  • The trip lasts for seven days. The first day’s trek is the toughest as you have to ascend a lot of stone staircases. If you have problems with your knee or ankles, you should opt for an easier trip. The maximum you spend 6 hours walking on the trail and a minimum of 3 hours. On average, you will be walking around  4 hours each day. 
  • On the trail, you will have your meals and stay overnight at local teahouses or mountain lodges. These establishments have basic facilities and appear rustic compared to city hotels. 

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation
Day 2 Fly to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft), drive to Hile and trek to Ulleri (1,970m/6,462ft) - 25 minutes flight, 2:30 hours drive and 3 to 4 hours (4 km) trek
Day 3 Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,427ft) - 4 to 5 hours (9 km) trek
Day 4 Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10529ft) and trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) - 5 to 6 hours (9.5 km) trek
Day 5 Trek to Kimchi via Ghandruk and drive to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft) - 4 to 5 hours (10 km) trek and 2:30 hours drive
Day 6 Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 25 minutes flight
Day 7 Final Departure

Video Highlights


Route Map

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route Map Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation

Endless rows of green hills and mountains greet you as your plane hovers above Kathmandu. After landing, our representative will meet you and drop you at your hotel. Take a rest and get refreshed. Attend a pre-trek briefing later in the afternoon and meet your trek leader. Check your gear for the final time and ask questions if you have any. If you feel like it, stroll around the colorful lanes of Thamel, a tourist hotspot.

Do schedule your arrival in the city early in the morning or during the daytime, and it will give you enough time to attend the pre-trek briefing and recover from jet lag.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2
Fly to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft), drive to Hile and trek to Ulleri (1,970m/6,462ft) - 25 minutes flight, 2:30 hours drive and 3 to 4 hours (4 km) trek

Today you have a long day ahead. Wake up early and prepare to leave Kathmandu. You will be driven to the domestic airport to catch your flight to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city. It is a scenic half-hour flight filled with majestic views of Langtang Range and Annapurna mountains. From Pokhara, you board a vehicle and drive to Hile, from where your trek begins. It is a refreshing walk across a typical Nepalese landscape. The trail winds through the verdant forests of Annapurna Conservation Area and charming Gurung and Magar villages.

From Tikhedhunga, a series of steps carved on the side of a large hill leads you to your destination for today, Ulleri - a Gurung village. Today is one of the toughest days of the trek. ‘Bistarai, bistarai !’ or slowly, slowly is how you tackle the stairs. Once you arrive in Ulleri, head to a teahouse and give your limbs a much-needed rest.

Overnight in Ulleri.

Day 3
Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,427ft) - 4 to 5 hours (9 km) trek

From Ulleri, continue walking on the stone steps all the way to Ghorepani. This portion of the trail is probably the most scenic during spring as the trail is filled with rhododendron blooms. Pause at intervals to stop for a breather and soak in the awe-inspiring views of Machapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) and Annapurna South.

Get your permits checked at the entrance of Ghorepani. The literal translation of Ghorepani is horse water. This village was named once the watering hole for horses and mule packs traveling along the old trade route. The village has a large Magar population and an assortment of lodges and teahouses. Poon Hill lies right above Ghorepani. If you are not too tired, you can take a quick hike to Poon Hill to enjoy a sunset view.

Overnight in Ghorepani.

Day 4
Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10529ft) and trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) - 5 to 6 hours (9.5 km) trek

View from Poon Hill Poon Hill - Located in the Annapurna region of Nepal at an elevation of 3210m

Wake up before dawn and hike to Poon Hill to experience the spectacular Poon Hill sunrise. Once you reach the top, you are surrounded on all sides by Himalayan mountains. Enjoy the 360-degree view and watch the spectacular display of light and color as the first rays of the sunlight up the icy blue peaks. The snow-covered Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli turn from red, pink, and orange to a huge chunk of golden yellow. Click as many pictures as you can. Poon Hill’s elevation is 3,210m, the highest point of your trek.

Later head down to Ghorepani and descend to Tadapani via Banthanti village. En route hike past Deurali Danda, another lookout point offering inspiring views of the Annapurnas. Colorful prayer flags greet you as you arrive in Tadapani, a village lying at the foot of Machhapuchhre. Locals revere this mountain, and climbing it is forbidden. Make your way to a teahouse and take a much-needed rest.

Overnight in Tadapani.

Day 5
Trek to Kimchi via Ghandruk and drive to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft) - 4 to 5 hours (10 km) trek and 2:30 hours drive

Ghandruk Village Ghandruk Village - Beautiful Village which culturally inhabited region of Nepalese Gurung community.

From Tadapani, walk for around 3 hours and reach Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung heritage village. This is the second-largest Gurung village in Nepal and is home to a large number of British Gurkha soldiers. Stop for lunch and explore the village.

If you are interested, you can visit the old Gurung Museum. Later enjoying fantastic views of Annapurna Himal, you descend to Kimchi and board a vehicle to Pokhara. After driving for about two and a half hours, you reach the lakeside city.  Head to your hotel and get refreshed.

Overnight in Pokhara. 

Day 6
Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - 25 minutes flight

 If you wish to explore the tourist attractions of Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu, do let us know. We will arrange a half-day guided sightseeing tour for you (at additional cost). The flight to Kathmandu is filled with more splendid Himalayan views.

On reaching Kathmandu, check into your hotel and spend the day at leisure. Relax at your hotel or explore more of the city on your own. You can walk down the local bazaar of Ason or Thamel to shop for souvenirs. Celebrate the completion of your Nepal trip with a complimentary farewell dinner with your guide or one of our team members. 

Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 7
Final Departure

Our representative will drop you at the airport three hours before your flight departs. If you want to explore more of Nepal or the neighboring Himalayan countries- Bhutan, Tibet, and India- do let us know. We have a range of specially designed itineraries for vacationers looking for a fun-filled vacation or adventurers willing to explore uncharted territories.



Best Time To Travel

Spring (March to May) and autumn (mid-September to November) are considered the best seasons for a trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill. The weather stays dry and clear during these times, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying unobstructed views of mountains. The days are warm, and the nights chilly. On the downside, however, these are peak seasons, and the trails get crowded and busy.

During spring, the rhododendron forests covering the trail burst into colorful pink, white and red blooms. Walking through the hills covered with rhododendron blooms against the backdrop of the snowy Himalayas will seem like a walk through paradise.

Autumn is the most popular season for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. With the end of the wet monsoon season, which clears the skies of dust and impurities, you can enjoy crystal clear views during this season. Timing your trek around late September or October will allow you to experience the most important festivals of the Nepalese Dashain and Tihar. These festivals celebrated by Hindus last for several days. Expect good food, merry-making, dance, and music at all the villages along the trail. 

You can also opt for a monsoon or winter trek if you want to avoid the crowds. You can enjoy some off-season discounts at teahouses which remain mostly empty during these times. But you should be ready to face some discomforts (rain, snow, and extreme cold) if you take to the trail at these times.


Getting to Ghorepani and Poon Hill

First, you need to travel to Pokhara, which can be done by taking a flight or driving overland. Many private airline companies operate daily flights on the Kathmandu- Pokhara route. Taking a flight may be expensive, but it saves you time and is more comfortable. In less than 30 minutes, you reach your destination.

If you are traveling on a budget, you can opt to travel by tourist coach or a local bus. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours. The tourist bus to Pokhara departs daily from Sorahkhutte and Thamel at 7 AM. If you want to travel like locals, you need to go to Naya Bus Park in Gongabu and get yourself a bus ticket to Pokhara. There are also micro vans or Hiace vans that leave for Pokhara at intervals of 1 to 2 hours daily. Private vehicles are also available on hire. The vehicle comes with a driver, and rental charges vary according to the size and type of the vehicle.

As per our itinerary, you travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara and vice versa by flight. Due to the mountainous terrain, aircrafts used for domestic flights in Nepal tend to be small and light.  You will be flying in a 70 to 47 seater ATR, 30 seater Jetstream, or 18 seaters Beechcraft. The 25 minutes flight lets you enjoy incredible views of Himalayan peaks.

Upon reaching Pokhara, you board a private vehicle and drive to the trailhead of your trek, Hile. You drive on a pitched highway up to Nayapul and later take an off-road to Hile. The drive lasts for a little over two hours. From Hile, you start your trek and walk all the way to Ghorepani and Poon Hill.  On the last day of your trek, you will be picked up from Kimchi and driven to Pokhara.


Entry Permits & Requirements

The permits you need for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek are – 1) Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit, and 2) TIMS (Tourist Information Management System) card.

Both Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit and TIMS Card can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board’s Office in Kathmandu or Tourist Information Centre in Pokhara.

To get these permits, you need to provide the following documents and information:

  • Copy of your passport
  • 2 Passport-sized photos
  • Dates when your trek starts and ends
  • Itinerary/route
  • Entry and exit points
  • Emergency Contact Information (local and home country’s)
  • Travel Insurance Details

Permits are not required for children below 10 years of age.

Permit Fees: Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit: NRS 3000 per person for foreigners, NRS 1000 for citizens of SAARC countries, and NRS 100 for Nepalese.

TIMS Card: NRS 1000 if you are trekking with a guide. NRS 2000 for free individual trekker (FIT). For SAARC country nationals, NRS 300 is trekking with a guide and NRS 600 for a solo trekker.

You won’t have to worry about queuing up to get the permits as the company, or our guides will arrange all the permits for you.


Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the easiest and safest Himalayan treks. The highest point of your trek is Poon Hill, at 3,210 meters above sea level. You only remain at this altitude for an hour or so and descend to a lower altitude. Apart from the short hike to Poon Hill, you won’t be venturing above 3000 meters during the entire trek.

Though AMS symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc., are seen at elevations above 2000 meters, we believe you will be fine as our itinerary allows your body to adapt to the thin mountain air gradually. Apart from a bit of a headache or an odd sniffle, you won’t feel any of the adverse effects of altitude sickness in this particular trek.

If you feel the altitude affecting you, taking Diamox and a good night’s rest might help. Drinking plenty of fluids (water, tea, soup, etc.) and keeping your body hydrated will also help keep the sickness at bay.

To let your body get used to the thin air, you need to walk slowly, steadily and keep your body hydrated. If you try to hasten and walk fast to reach your destination in less time, chances are you may suffer from AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness.

One should take necessary precautions to ensure that the condition does not worsen. But if the symptoms worsen, one may have to return to a lower elevation and get medical help. In the worst-case scenario, an air evacuation will be arranged, where the patient will be flown to Pokhara or Kathmandu to receive medical aid. AMS, if untreated or ignored, can take your life.

Experts and veteran guides have designed this itinerary. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is well-paced and allows your body to gradually get used to low oxygen levels in the mountain air.

The chart given below will give you a rough idea of the oxygen level in the atmosphere on the trail.

Altitude

Oxygen Level

1,000m/3,281ft

88%

2,500m/8,202ft

73%

3,000m/9,843ft

68%

3,500m/11,483ft

64%


Drinking-Water

It is important to keep your body hydrated on the trail as dehydration also causes AMS. One should drink at least 3-4 liters of fluid.

To tackle the menace of plastic waste in the Annapurna Region, the sale of bottled water has been banned since 2015.  Inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will find several safe drinking water stations.  We highly recommend you carry a reusable water bottle with you, one that can hold hot water. You can use one with a steri pen or an inbuilt filtration system like LifeStraw.

You can also use water purification tablets to treat the water. While the water in the mountains tends to be pure and without impurities, it’s better not to take chances and filter or treat the water before drinking.

Using chlorine or iodine tablets to treat the water may alter its taste. You can add flavored electrolyte powder (readily available at pharmacies in Kathmandu) to mask the bitter chemical taste. Adding electrolyte to your drinking water may also be beneficial as the minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.) you lose while walking gets replenished.

Teahouses offer boiled and filter drinking water at an additional cost. Charges vary according to altitude (the higher you reach, the more expensive it will be) and quantity. You will be charged from USD 1 to 2 for a pot of hot and filtered drinking water.


Internet Connectivity

Internet connection (though erratic and irregular at some places) is available in the Annapurna Region. You can connect with your loved ones while trekking, post updates, and upload pictures on social media. Wi-fi is available at all teahouses. Teahouses will charge you extra for using their Wi-Fi hotspot.

It will be cheaper and easier to get a sim card (preferably Ncell) in Kathmandu and purchase internet data that could last you for your entire trip.


Packing Checklist for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

As opposed to popular belief, you don’t need any complicated gear and equipment for this adventure. Here’s a basic checklist of the essential items that you should not forget to bring with you during your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

  • A sturdy pair of trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Rucksack or daypack (30 liters) with waterproof cover
  • Trekking pants and waterproof trousers
  • T-shirts or shirts
  • Down jacket
  • Wind/ waterproof light jacket
  • Fleece jumper or jacket
  • Inner Thermal (top and trouser)
  • Socks and underwear
  • Sunglasses, sun hat, woolen cap, or balaclava
  • Inner and outer gloves
  • Headlamp, power bank, and extra batteries
  • Sun protection cream, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer
  • Towel, flip-flop or rubber sandal, toiletries
  • Water bottle and water purification tablets
  • 2 season Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner

These are only some of the essential items. Find a more Packing List For Trekking In Nepal.

Most of the trekking equipment is available on hire in Kathmandu. You can keep your baggage light by only packing the essential items and renting or buying the rest in Kathmandu. Shops in Thamel offer branded as well locally made gear and equipment.

You can leave your spare luggage in your hotel’s storage room. It is completely safe and free. But do make sure to lock your luggage before leaving it at the storage unit.    


Guide(s) & Staff Arrangements

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek takes you to the base of an 8,000-meter peak, Annapurna I (8,091m). Having an experienced local guide accompanying you will enrich your trip in so many ways. Trekking with a person who has in-depth knowledge of the mountain will also keep you safe and secure.

When you book a trek with us, we pair you up with one of our local guides. All our guides have experience of more than 10 years and have a vast knowledge of the area you are visiting. They have completed the trekking guide course and have the required government license to work as mountain guides. They can communicate in English and have received training on wilderness first aid and crisis management.

A chief guide or trek leader will lead the trek. For every 4 trekkers, there will be an assistant guide assisting them personally. One porter will carry the luggage of 2 clients. Make sure that your luggage does not exceed 15 kg, as the porter can only carry a weight of 30 kg.

We believe in the ethical treatment of our staff. All our Guides and Porters are provided with weather-appropriate gear and clothing to battle the harsh weather in the mountains. Before the start of a trek, we ensure that our mountain guides are fully insured. They are given fair wages and treated with respect.

We seriously follow the guidelines set by IPPG (International Porter Protection Group) and offer assistance to porters to develop other skills. A portion of the booking fee goes to fund the education of our field staffs’ kids.


Travel Insurance

For Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, you need a good travel insurance policy that offers you coverage for all activities and altitudes included in your itinerary. The highest altitude you reach is 3,210 meters, and your travel insurance should offer you suitable coverage up to this elevation.

Though we take your safety as our number one priority, we cannot rule out mishaps and emergencies in the mountain. Even though it’s very rare in this trek, there’s always a possibility of someone suffering from Acute Mountain Sickness due to the thin mountain air. It could prove to be fatal if not treated on time.

Walking in a treacherous mountain environment also exposes you to physical injuries. Therefore make sure that your insurance covers the cost of all injuries and emergencies that you can face during this trekking adventure.

Your insurance policy should especially cover the cost of helicopter evacuation and hospitalization in case of an accident or medical emergency, as these happen to be quite expensive. Check for vaccination requirements as some travel insurance policies makes it mandatory to immunize yourself before you leave your country. 

Before you decide on a policy, be mindful and don’t forget to read the fine print. It would be advantageous for you also to choose a company that offers insurance cover on domestic and international flight cancellations and lost or stolen baggage.


Trip Safety

We ensure the safety of our clients by following all safety protocols during the trip. This itinerary has been designed by travel experts and veteran guides who have trekked on this route innumerable times.

Our guides always carry a first-aid kit and pulse oximeter (to measure the oxygen level in your blood) with them. The guides assigned to you have more than 10 years of experience and know what steps to take during an emergency. They are well-trained in wilderness first aid and crisis management.

If a client shows symptoms of AMS and needs to descend to a lower elevation, an assistant guide will escort them and follow the safety protocol. He will closely monitor the client’s condition and take the required steps for the client's well-being.

If they feel alright after a night’s rest, the guide will escort the client back to join the group. But if the condition worsens, the client will be escorted down to a lower elevation or airlifted to Pokhara or Kathmandu for expert medical aid.


A typical day on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

A typical day on the trail begins with a wake-up call at around 6 AM by your guide. Freshen up and get ready. Pack your belongings and head to the dining area for breakfast by 7 AM. Check your luggage for the final time and fill your water bottle before you hit the trail by 8 AM, along with your guide.

To avoid walking in the heat and enjoy clear mountains' views, you make an early start. En route, there will be short breaks to enjoy the views and take photographs. You stop for lunch at a local teahouse around noon or mid-day. After a quick rest of about an hour or 40 minutes, you get back on the trail and continue till you reach your overnight stop.

Upon reaching the stop for the night, you head to your teahouse, check in, and have some rest. Tea with some light refreshments (cookies or biscuits) will be served at 5 PM. As the rooms are not insulated, you can warm yourself by the heater or stove in the communal area.

Exchange stories or play cards with other trekkers till dinner is served (around 7 PM). After dinner, your guide will brief you about the next day’s trek – the route you will take, difficulty, where you will stop for lunch, etc. Afterward, retire for the night and have a well-deserved rest.

On average, you may have to walk 4 to 5 hours daily. On Day 4, you will have to wake up before 4 AM and hike up to Poon Hill to catch the sunrise.


Responsible Travel

Travel responsibly and try to limit any negative impact on the environment. Limit the use of plastic and be mindful about throwing waste in the mountains. When you trek with us, you will be supporting local communities (from the guides and porters to teahouse owners). We, as a company, support sustainable tourism and patronize local businesses. We partner with service providers who work towards saving the environment.  As an active member of KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project), we make sure that our trips are environment-friendly.

Altitude Map

Ghorepani Poon Hill Altitude Map

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek FAQs

The quality of teahouses in the Annapurna Region is pretty good and most of them offer facilities like western toilets, hot showers (may charge cost) and a wide range of items on their menu. The rooms are usually furnished with two separate beds with mattress, pillows, blankets and bed sheets. Most of the teahouses are family or community run establishments. Teahouses are like an extended home and have a warm and cosy feel to them.

This is one of the easy treks in Annapurna region. Everyday day we walk for 4-5hours. Anyone with normal fitness level can join this trek. In fact, it is one of the best family adventure packages.

The symptoms of altitude sickness are generally seen at elevations above 4000m. Since the highest point you will reach during your trek is Poon Hill at 3210m, there is no cause for concern. You will be spending only an hour or two at this height. Most part of your trek will be at lower elevations. 

The permits needed are - Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry fee and TIMS(Trekkers’ Information Management System fee).

If you want to add extra activities and sites to your itinerary it can be done. Our Travel Consultant will help you customize your trip. Just let us know which places you want to visit and what you want to do and we will add these in your itinerary.

While tipping is not mandatory it is a nice way of showing your appreciation to the people who have helped you enrich your holiday experience. It all depends on how far you are pleased and satisfied with their services. There is no fixed amount, but many of our clients offer 8-10 percent of the total tour price as tips.   

We would recommend all our clients to purchase travel insurance before booking any of our treks. Trust us you will have a pleasant holiday knowing that you have a good insurance cover. In the event of any sickness or injury while trekking in the mountains, the cost of emergency treatment and evacuation will be considerable. Therefore, traveling with an insurance cover is strongly recommended for everyone who signs up for any of our trips. But be careful while choosing a policy as some policies make special exceptions for adventure travel.

Do read the fine print. Before buying insurance make sure your insurance company is aware of your travel itinerary and is agreeable to cover all activities being undertaken during the trip. Such as if you are planning to trek or climb (mountaineering expedition) in the Himalayas, your insurance must cover emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue including medical expenses. For a group tour in an urban area, insurance cover of air ambulance or helicopter rescue is not mandatory. While booking a trip with us you need to send us a copy of your insurance policy (e.g. your insurance certificate) or carry it with you while you come for the trip.

No, you cannot get insurance in Nepal. Please also note that Third Rock Adventures does not arrange or sell insurance.

Please do note, all our trekking itineraries incorporate adequate number of acclimatization days. You will get an extra day’s rest at a lower elevation to prepare your body for a walk up in the higher reaches.

AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness usually occurs due to the lack of oxygen in the atmosphere in high altitudes. Our body is not used to walking in high altitude and it requires a lot of time to adapt to thin air in the mountains. Technically there is no way of stopping AMS but you can surely prevent it by following the given tips:

  • Keep your body hydrated. Drink at least 4 liters of water daily.
  • Give up smoking, alcohol and caffeine, the major causes of dehydration and headache.
  • Go slow- it’s not a race. Take plenty of time to acclimatize to the increase in altitude.
  • Don’t skip the acclimatization day. Take Diamox, an over-the-counter pill used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Yes, single supplement will be available in the cities and at lower elevations while trekking. At higher elevations there are very few teahouses. During peak season when there is high demand for rooms, it will be difficult to book single rooms. However if you are travelling during off season a single room can be arranged at all places.


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Based on 32 reviews


Latest Trip Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

Inès Z
flagsSaint Barthelemy
Dec 29, 2023

Amazing experience!

I had the best time in Nepal thanks to Third rock adventures. My guide Surya was amazing, very caring, helpful and gives the best explanation regarding the different trek’s itinerary and the history in the mountains. I recommend 100% this travel agency that takes care of everything for you so you feel safe and relax ready to enjoy a real lifetime adventure !
Recommended by Friend,
Yes
Yes !!
Melvin Horne
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 07, 2021

Lovely Sunrise

I did Ghorepani Poonhill trek with Bimal and it was truly a memorable adventure. We walked early in the morning from Ghorepani for about 1.5 hours to the viewpoint, it was freezing cold there. The sun slowly started coming up and painted the sky with yellow colors, and the mountains were so awe-inspiring to watch. It was blissful morning there. Thanks to THird rock for this wonderful adventure. I highly recommend this trek.
Best Destination
Mischael Harris
flagsUnited States of America
Mar 23, 2020

Beautiful trekking trail and view from poon hill

The professional team of Third Rock Adventures made our trek a delight! Our guide Babu is such a kind, knowledgeable, cheerful, concerned and conscientious man that I can not recommend his company, Third Rock Adventures highly enough. We were old aged traveler with the slow pace in a group of 4 and Mingma was encouraging, careful and happy every step of the way and everything was thoughtfully planned out and executed. He knows so many people at every place we stopped that we felt extra-welcomed. Finally, our other porters were amazingly strong and always had a smile on their face. Babu showered us with snacks, water and concern every step of the way. I would love to go back and do a longer trek and if I am lucky enough to do so, I will undoubtedly be booking with Third Rock Adventures. Thank you everyone involved for this trip. Namaste.
Thomas Anderson
flagsAustralia
Feb 26, 2020

Beautiful landscape and Himalayan view from Poonhill

Being our first time trekking in the Himalayas, we optioned for the easiest yet beautiful one. The Third Rock team suggested us to do Ghorepani Poon Hill seeing our circumstances and demand. Their suggestion ultimately worths and we got more than we expected from this trip. The sunrise view followed by the view of the Himalayan ranges was just jaw dropping. We enjoyed every bit of this trip and promised with Deepak to return back again for another trek. Thank you Third Rock Adventures and Deepak for the best travel experience ever. The memories of those views from Ghorepani/Poonhill will last a lifetime.
Maxime Kennedy
flagsCanada
Feb 24, 2020

My first trekking experience to Ghorepani

I have joined a trip with my friends to Ghorepani. We hiked straight for four days. We enjoyed the company of our guide Babu, he was a great guide telling us about the area, keeping us safe and giving us great food. We sometimes felt very tired but in the end  the view of nature and the Himalayas made it well worth it, When we got to the top of the hill we were in awe. . Third Rock Adventures has provided me a first-hand experience of the Himalayas and I am really happy to be a part of this trip. Thank you all the team. Highly recommended.
Timon Bucher
flagsSwitzerland
Feb 19, 2020

Amazing Sunrise view from Poonhill and the trek

Though this was our first time traveling to the Himalayas, it was real fun and amusement for us. We did the trail in 7 days but didn't realized it was already over by the end of trip. We were accompanied by a professional and experienced guide from Third Rock Adventures, Mr. Babu. He told us about Nepalese tradition and how people live there...so it was not just about the trip through the mountains. We really would like to thank Third Rock Adventures for the professional trip operation and Mr. Babu for his care. We will coma back again for other trips in the Himalayas.
Waggoner Aders
flagsGermany
Feb 16, 2020

Beautiful views and nature of poonhill trek

Though we were at our old age, Third Rock Adventures inspired us to take a short hike in the Himalayas. We agreed to go for Ghorepani poonhill trek so we got a well developed tour plan, jeep and taxi rides were arranged and a professional guide that looked for our wellbeing and for the necessary breaks. So we had a breath-taking adventure and a really great experience. Thank you Third Rock Adventures and our guide Mr. Bimal. Will go for another adventure with you in future.
Ella Foster
flagsUnited Kingdom
Feb 07, 2020

Poonhill Trek, Nepal

Trekking in Himalayas to me is like being a part of life challenge after I had chance to trek to Ghorepani and Poonhill. I had an amazing five-day trek with Third Rock Adventures. Shiva was an amazing guide, very helpful, friendly and flexible. I would definitely recommend the company for anyone wanting to trek in Nepal. I will continue to book my further trips in Asia with this company for sure.
Sigurd Orum
flagsDenmark
Feb 01, 2020

Wonderful trip to Poonhill

I had a fantastic 7 days trek organised by Third Rock Adventures in Kathmandu. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide Mr. Babu, patiently put up with our slow pace and last minute changes of plans. He really went out of his way with his support and advice, from guiding our steps along treacherous icy paths to helping us with our post-trek plans. Beautiful views , specially from poon hill we can see beautiful sunrise. The trail naturally scenic and beautiful. Highly recommended.
Dayang Chan
flagsMalaysia
Jan 21, 2020

Short yet beautiful tour to Poonhill and Ghorepani

We selected a simple trek in Nepal for our yearly holiday this time. My son and I have just finished a great trekking trip organized by Third Rock Adventures. Our guide Babu was knowledgeable, supportive and very interesting. Thanks to the company and our guide and other staff for a great experience. We will definitely come to this company for other tours in near future.
Sean Ang
flagsSingapore
Jan 07, 2020

That view from Poon Hill is iconic

From the beginning, Third Rock Adventures and my guide, Dol were incredibly attentive. They both took great care that all my needs were met, and that I didn't have to worry about anything along the way. Dol especially, was considerate and genuinely concerned for my well-being. Keep in mind: if you're looking to have an independent experience, this may not be for you, as Third Rock Adventures took care of just about everything, including accommodations, planning and meals. Bring some extra spending cash though, since drinks, tips and souvenirs are still on you. Highly recommended service for any kind of Himalayan trips in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan.
Harry Wilson
flagsUnited Kingdom
Jan 07, 2020

Beautiful journey of Discovery

We just completed a 7 day trek to poon hill with Third Rock Adventures and guide Dipak which has been the most amazing way to experience Nepal. We had fantastic service when we enquired in the office which was much better than the 3 other companies we tried to connect before we met them. They seemed to have the most knowledge about which way to do the route within our time frame and what weather conditions were like advising us so we had the right equipment such as crampons as there was snow at the top level, they helped us source it as well. Dipak was our guide who we met the night before making sure we had everything we needed and communicating really well with us. He was a fantastic guide over the whole 4 days, we always felt looked after and he was a very friendly and fun person to spend the time with but also knew when to give us the privacy we wanted as a couple. He was also extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife and farming we encountered along the way and the way of life in Nepal which we were really interested in and we learnt so much about mountain life from him which made the trip unforgettable for us. We stayed in excellent accomodation with good food and hot showers which was important as it was a very cold time of year with snow at high altitude. An excellent introduction to trekking and Nepal, we will return for more hopefully soon.
Artur Draus
flagsPoland
Dec 24, 2019

Wonderful trail to Ghorepani and beautiful views

For those travelers who have less days but still want to trek in the Himalayas, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the best thing to do. In 4-5 days of trekking you will see interesting and particular village and amazing views. My guide Bimal was simply perfect, with excellent knowledge of the mountains as well of the Nepali culture and in the meanwhile nice and friendly guy. I enjoyed every bit of this trip and recommend it to others. Thank you so much Third Rock Adventures for organizing this wonderful trip.
Yoshi Hino
flagsJapan
Nov 30, 2019

Beautiful nature and scenario

My 4 friends and I did a 7 days trekking. I had a very great time. my guide, Babu was amazing! He has lots of experience, knows everything! He took care of us very much. If had a next time to do trekking in nepal, I would love to ask Babu to be my guide again. Thank to our porter, Rupesh, we had very comfortable trip! I am very appreciated! Thank you Third Rock Adventures for arranging such wonderful trip.
Tomer Kapon
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 05, 2019

Unforgettable Experience

I am glad that I chose Third Rock Adventures over many other Nepalese travel agencies and I have two firm reasons for this: 1) highly experienced and 2) quality services. They promised me no.2 and they far exceeded it, and that proves no.1 reason. So far, Poon Hill Trek is easy for someone like me who can walk for a couple of hours. If you can trek for a few hours, Poon Hill trek would be the best to start off. The highlight of this trek is panoramic views of the hImalayas from the station, also considered a vantage view point. My guide, Babu was attentive and funny. He cracked jokes sometimes to keep me entertained. He managed everything beforehand for my comfort. I was offered quality food and accommodation. I wanted to have special Dal Bhat and Babu offered me. And I am in love with Dal Bhat. Will soon visit Nepal. I highly recommend this company.
Ellis Brown
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 02, 2019

Incredible sight of the himalayas

Superb views from Poon Hill Station. I am absolutely grateful to my guide-cum-friend Babu for his excellent guidance. And I got to know that the team from Kathmandu was always connected with the guide for the easy-going of my trek. This is something great! The team showed their professionalism, and I am absolutely grateful to the team. Had an amazing trek to Poon Hill. The service provided by the company far exceeded expectations.I highly recommend this company if you are thinking of trekking in Nepal.
Henry White
flagsUnited Kingdom
Oct 28, 2019

Natural beauty of Poon Hill trek

We had an incredible experience traveling with Third Rock Adventures. The trail to Poon Hill and Ghorepani was filled with Amazing views, lovely locals in the mountains and surprisingly great food throughout! Our first ever trek and definitely one to remember. Would recommend a tour guide Mr Babu, if it's your first trek as our one made our whole experience he was amazing. We loved the trip experience and the natural ambience during the trip. Highly recommended trip for anyone willing to try Himalayas as beginner.
Koster Torres
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 01, 2019

Beautiful natural views and sunrise at poonhill

Wid a wonderful trek with Third Rock Adventures and our guide Mr. Babu was extremely friendly. It was a great experience. Although the weather did not always go our way we were always made to feel welcome and comfortable wherever we went. Our guide attended to the needs and wants of a diverse group of people In a totally professional and empathic manner. Thank you for everything, we will come back to you again for next trip.
Tejas Rajbamsi
flagsIndia
Aug 08, 2019

Trip to Poonhill

If you want life changing experience, then I would highly recommend this trip. I am so happy that we decided to plan our trip with Third Rock Adventures. The mountains were breathtakingly beautiful , the accommodation was comfortable and all people we met during the trek were amazing . All of our guides were so helpful and pleasent. The food we had was amazing. It was our first ever trip to poon hill in October. We had total of 7 days hike along the majestic Annapurna mountain range and we also covered Ghorepani, Tadepani, Ghandruk and many other places.The sunrise over the mountain range at Poon Hill is a memory I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Gerald Ramsey
flagsUnited Kingdom
Aug 04, 2019

Fabulous Trek

Beautiful Trek! Not crowded at all. Everything was perfect. Wonderful days in the Himalayas. The food was great, the people were helpful and friendly. The highlight of the trek is my guide, who made my days easier in the Himalayas of Nepal. He made sure that I was enjoying it. My porter was also amazing. Every day was special- all credit to my guide and porter. I couldn't recommend them enough.
Rocco Vitale
flagsItaly
Jun 07, 2019

Beautiful sunrise and natural trekking trail to Poonhill

Booking this trip with Third Rock Adventures and their team was the best choice i could have ever made and it was an excellent experience at a better price compared to other agencies. The guide/porter with whom I had the trek was really nice and prepared. I had also the opportunity to meet the founder, Naba and he is a very kind and handsome person. The service organization was very much efficient, friendly and professional. I would definitely do my next trip to Nepal with this company. Thank you and Namaste.
Oscar Samuelsson
flagsSweden
Jun 02, 2019

Poon Hill and Gorepani Trek

We went trekking to the famous Poon Hill and Gorepani. Early mornings were awesome to click pictures of mountains but it couldn’t do justice to what I saw in front of me. The incredible views of Annapurna range is worth all the pain. We walked with a head torch in the darkness and saw an amazing sunrise. Enjoyed the spectacular views with a cup of hot chocolate; was pleasantly to surprise to see a shop selling hot beverages in the vantage point of sunrise. You really got to do this trek to understand what I am saying. Can’t stop gushing about the beautiful Himalayas and the experience.
It's a must do trek for those who wants to enjoys the views of Annapurna range and stunning sunrises.
Makoto Tsuji
flagsJapan
Jun 01, 2019

Best travel experience and the views

Team of my friends and me had unforgettable time trekking with Third Rock Adventures "We appreciated their considerate service so that we can trek without any worries. the tour guide Mr.Bimal and his four humorous team members are very kind and helpful. We sang played danced while we were trecking. it’s so much fun that I never forget! We will come back again for other trips.
Kareem Hassan
flagsEgypt
May 16, 2019

Trekking in Ghorepani Nepal

I felt lucky enough to do my ghorepani Poon Hill with this agency.They pick up me from airport and they manage for me very good hotel accommodation in Thamel. My trekking guide Mr. Shiva and porters are professional and very friendly. Shiva is very knowledgeable guide and he know lot of things about mountain, bird’s culture and nature. Food and Accommodations are really good in Mountain. I would definitely recommend anyone visiting Nepal to go through the Third Rock that we did it was amazing. I would like to give special thanks Shiva again for your hospitality and professionalism.
Hennery Moran
flagsAustralia
May 13, 2019

Trek with sunrise - Poon Hill Trek

Me and my wife are in mid 40’s with reasonable fitness. This anniversary we wanted to enjoy the Himalayas but were looking for something easy so we choose Gorepani Pun Hill trek. We had good weather at the start of the trek but the night before our Pun Hill sunrise there was rainfall with thunder. It was worrisome! Next day the clouds had cleared and there was a bright blue sky. Our hopes were high. After a walk of around an hour, we reached the vantage point. Himalayan ranges were breathtaking and the sight of sunrise was too beautiful to describe in words.
Best Destination
I wanted an easy way to enjoy the Himalayas
Take trekking poles as we did. Trust me these will become your pillars of support.
Marco Belle
flagsSaint Barthelemy
May 06, 2019

A trek to remember

The beautiful mountains, hill, Nepalese villages and its culture make the long walk feel short. Climbing the never ending steps to Ulleri is the only excruciating part of the trek. Rest of the trek is comparatively far easier. The chilly breeze as you trek to higher elevation was wonderful. We saw a beautiful sunrise over the snowcapped mountains. It’s one of the best I have seen till date and worth the entire climb.
Wanted to enjoy the mountains and sunrises in short period
Take trekking poles it will become your best friend. Foreign dishes with Nepali touch; keep your expectation low. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the mountains.
Achara Srisuk
flagsThailand
Apr 26, 2019

Poon Hill Trek with Breathtaking Sunrise

For the first time trekkers like me I felt Ghorepani Poon Hill would be perfect. The team of Third Rock adventures was quick to reply and assured me that this trek would be prefect for beginners. The team was attentive towards my demands and made me feel comfortable. Indeed, it turned out to be one of the most amazing experiences which will remain with me for a lifetime. We shared the trail with mules which were transporting supplies to the villages. We had pretty decent weather with few rainfalls and hails. The weather got me worried for the sunrise but lucked out to witness awesome sunrise from the vantage point of Poon Hill. The hike up to Poon Hill was quite demanding but the sight was worth it. You could see the reddish orange sky and the sight of rays of early sun falling onto the snowcapped mountains was breathtaking. We spend almost an hour there basking in the serenity of the place. We got awesome views on the way to Ghandruk which compelled me to stop and enjoy the serenity. Rhododendron blooms added color to the otherwise green trail.
Best Destination,
Memorable: Sunrise from Poon Hill Enjoyable: sipping hot tea beside fire while hail was falling outside.
I was worried about weather which wasn't in my control so would like to tell you to embrace everything as it comes. Don't worry much just live in the moment
Ryan Patel
flagsCanada
Mar 22, 2019

Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek - An adventure in the mountains

Though I would have loved to do the Annapurna Circuit, I did not have time. The team at Third rock Adventures suggested Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek, so I settled for this short trek. I was not disappointed as I got to enjoy some stellar views of Annapurna, Fishtail and other Himalayan giants. I had a really good guide, Pemba, who let me walk at my own pace. The highlight was supposed to be the sunrise from Poon Hill, but unfortunately weather was not on our side. It was cloudy but then we had a brief glimpse of the grand panorama as the clouds cleared a bit just as we were about to descend. But there were other places on the trail from where we had some spectacular mountain views. I enjoyed my stay at the Gurung villages. At one of the teahouses my guide introduced me to a person who is part of a group of Gurung ‘Honey Hunters’. It was interesting to chat with him. He had some pictures from his recent honey hunting expedition which looked kind of scary. It would be an interesting experience and I am already planning to be back with my friends for a ‘Honey Hunting’ experience. Pemba from Third Rock Adventures has agreed to be my guide for this next adventure too. I am already looking forward to my next Himalayan adventure! By the way, if anyone is searching for a tour company, I would highly recommend Third Rock Adventures. These guys know how to look after their clients!
Good Value.
Yes.
I wanted to trek in the Himalayas.
Meeting people en route, chatting with lodge owners and locals, and of course the stupendous mountain views.
A walk in the mountains is a great stress buster.
Diego Cornelio
flagsSpain
Mar 02, 2019

Beautiful trek to Ghorepani and Poon hill

Six of us joined the Poonhill trekking organized by Third Rock Adventures and we have had a wonderful experience. From the professional guide and porters were very helpful, thoughtful and supportive starting from the very beginning including route planning, flight connection, even trekking sticks to the end of the visit to Nepal. The team members with us for 7 days were so amazing and supportive. They took very good care of us, from breakfast to dinner, from early morning to evening. They made sure we had meals first, and they ate after everything was settled for us. We were always in the middle of the group during the trekking to ensure our safety. We miss the time with these wonderful guys, and for sure we will be back to trekking with these friends soon. Namaste!
Robert Bradley
flagsUnited Kingdom
Feb 14, 2019

Awesome view of Himalayas and natural trekking trails

We went to the trip as a private group of 6 and our guide Dol from Third Rock Adventure's tailored made this trek for us to Poon Hill, the pace was brilliant for our group. Dol's communication was brilliant when booking this trek from the comfort of my home in Bristol in the UK. As arranged Dol met us in our hotel in Kathmandu for the final arrangements as we could not go to the office due to time restrictions. The whole trip was first class, we had 3 porters who were remarkable and helped us throughout our trek under Dol's guidance. We slept in lodges which were warm and welcoming. Dol arranged everything so we can concentrate on having a wonderful time. The scenery was spectacular.
Magnolia Brodeur
flagsNetherlands
Jan 11, 2019

Wonderful Gandruk, Tadapani, Ghorepani and Poon Hill!

We have had a fantastic experience on our 7 day trek. We went via Gandruk, Tadapani to Ghorepani and Poon Hill. We had a very competent guide and porter couple, Bimal Thapa and Rupesh Chhetri who made the trek a fantastic experience for us. They gave good information on the way and were very helpfull on our first trekking experience in the Himalayas. They made it a perfect trek for us. We will recommend this kind of trek for others and will definitely come back.
Mario Wyatt
flagsMalaysia
Jun 21, 2018

Our Poon Hill Ghorepani Trek

I arrived in Kathmandu on the 2nd of June with my 2 best friends. We had been planning this trip for a long time and were very excited to see the mountains, culture and meet the people of Nepal. We had booked a short trek to Poon hill with Third Rock Adventures. We were picked up by the company at the airport and upon arrival at the hotel, we were briefed about our trek. The trek was absolutely fantastic, it was a short trek but the rewards were mind blowing. Third Rock Adventures lived up to our expectation as they provided very good service. The most notable thing I would especially like to mention is how they treated us like royalty, taking care of our every need and demand. A big thank you and thumbs up to the team and without any doubt.
Best Destination, Good Value, I like itinerary, Recommended by Friend, Best and Selected Tours
Yes
Short Trek
Poon Hill, Pokhara, On the way hike
99%

Based on 32 reviews
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30
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2
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0
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0
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Contact Us

USA & Canada
Australia
51 Spring Street, Thomastown Vic 3074
Europe
864 route de la Marqueze, 40230 Josse
Nepal
Keshar Mahal Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Sera Road/ Tashi Xintsun, Lhasa, Tibet
Bhutan
Changlam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan