Ghorepani Poon Hill 4-Day Classic Trek

Four days is the ideal duration for the Ghorepani Poon Hill circuit — enough time to enjoy the villages, the rhododendron forest, and the iconic hilltop sunrise without rushing.

Overview

The classic 4-day circuit: Day 1 Nayapul to Ulleri (2,073m); Day 2 Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874m); Day 3 pre-dawn Poon Hill (3,210m) sunrise then onward to Tadapani (2,630m); Day 4 Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m) then jeep to Pokhara. Total distance is about 45km with 2,200m of ascent. The rhododendron forest between Ghorepani and Tadapani is one of Nepal finest — at its best in March-April. Book your Pokhara accommodation with Sajilo transport booked for the return day to avoid waiting at Nayapul for a jeep.

Getting There

Taxi from Pokhara to Nayapul (45 min, NPR 1,500-2,000) or local bus from Baglung bus park (1 hour, NPR 200).

Key Highlights

Poon Hill viewpoint at sunrise frames Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri in a single panorama. Ghorepani village itself is a pleasant base with good teahouses. Ghandruk is a large Gurung village with traditional stone houses and a community museum.

Tips

• Reach Poon Hill by 5:45am in October, 6:00am in April for sunrise.
• The Ulleri stone staircase (3,000+ steps) is the hardest section — pace yourself.
• ACAP permit (NPR 3,000) required.

FAQ

Can I do this trek without a guide? Yes — the Ghorepani Poon Hill trail is very well marked and many trekkers do it independently.

What is the best month for rhododendrons? Mid-March to mid-April for peak bloom. The forest above Ghorepani turns crimson and pink at their finest.

Can I extend to 5 or 6 days? Easily — add Annapurna Base Camp via Chomrong for a 9-day extension, or Khopra Ridge for 7 days.