Tips & Ideas

Why Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with families?

The Annapurna Poon Hill Trek is a 7-day trek that concludes in Poon Hill, where you will reach the highest point on the trek (3210m). It is an average height trip, and therefore there are fewer possibilities of altitude sickness than on other Nepalese treks. Furthermore, as the climb proceeds to the highest point, the possibilities of being ill are reduced even further. Additionally, the route is not very difficult on the legs, encouraging individuals of all ages to face it calmly. Conversely, if children find it extremely difficult to walk, pony rides are available for hire.

 Along with that, trekkers can interact with nature and the local people as well. Also, kids can be well known about the diverse cultural groups living in the Annapurna region. It is an ideal chance to teach kids about different ethnic groups and reacquaint nature.

Good to Know before you trek

Best time to do Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek could well be done quite easily of year. Regardless, the track is among the most beautiful in the spring and autumn. During spring, the lush and green forests, clean and clear skies, mountain vistas are clearer than ever. Trekking is possible throughout all the seasons: Spring Autumn, Monsoon, and winter. However, due to rapid rainfall and extreme cold, the trekking trails might be slick, muddy and leeches can be found during the Monsoon season. We recommend you not to trek with family during the monsoon. Aside from that, all the other seasons are the best which offers fantastic weather and temperature to hike to Ghorepani Poon Hill.

Accommodation

In Kathmandu, you will be provided a standard room depending upon your budget, however, you will be given a comfortable and better quality room including an attached bathroom at lower levels. On moving to a higher altitude, you can find basic accommodation with bare necessities.

Food

Breakfast is included in your guesthouse in Kathmandu, and yet all meals (breakfast, lunch, and supper/Dinner) are included throughout the trek. A sample food during your trek includes Dal Bhat (Nepali Food), Momo, Noodles, Potatoes, Oats, Buckwheat, and many more. Trekkers must be sure that there might not be an expected choice of food at the higher elevation.

Transportation

Be sure that we can provide a private vehicle for pick up and drop from the airport whereas public transportation or local buses are used during your journey to Ghorepani Poonhill

❓ Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek FAQs

1. What is the Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek?

The Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek is a short trekking route in the Annapurna Region, famous for its sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It passes through rhododendron forests, Gurung and Magar villages, and offers a blend of cultural and natural beauty.

2. How long does the trek take?

• Standard duration: 4–5 days

• It can be extended to 7–10 days by combining with Ghandruk, Tadapani, or even Annapurna Base Camp.

3. What is the maximum altitude?

• Poon Hill viewpoint: 3,210 m (10,532 ft)
  This is much lower than Annapurna Base Camp or Thorong La Pass, making it suitable for beginners.

4. Do I need permits?

Yes. Two permits are required:

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): ~USD 30

2. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): ~USD 20

5. What is the difficulty level?

• Rated as easy to moderate.

• Daily walking: 4–6 hours on stone steps, uphill and downhill.

• No technical climbing or extreme altitude challenges.

6. Do I need to worry about altitude sickness?

No major risk. The highest point (Poon Hill, 3,210 m) is well below the altitude where AMS usually occurs (3,500 m+). Some trekkers may feel mild shortness of breath but not serious altitude issues.

7. When is the best time to trek to Poon Hill?

• Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons in full bloom, clear skies.

• Autumn (September–November): Best visibility, stable weather.

• Winter (December–February): Cold mornings, but fewer trekkers.

• Monsoon (June–August): Trails muddy, leeches, and cloud cover. Not ideal.

8. How do I get to the starting point?

• Most treks start at Nayapul or Hile, which are 1.5–2 hours by road from Pokhara.

• Some itineraries start at Tikhedhunga or Ghandruk.

9. What kind of accommodation is available?

• Teahouses/lodges run by local families.

• Rooms are simple (twin-sharing, wooden beds, blankets).

• Shared bathrooms are common.

• Hot showers and Wi-Fi available in most places (extra charge).

10. What food is available on the trek?

• Local: Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables), momos, Gurung bread.

• Western options: Pancakes, noodles, pasta, omelets.

• Meals are usually prepared fresh in teahouses.

11. Do I need a guide and porter?

• Since April 2023, the Nepal government requires a licensed guide for all treks, including Poon Hill.

• Porters are optional but recommended if you don’t want to carry your own backpack.

12. What should I pack for the Poon Hill trek?

Since it’s a short, low-altitude trek:

• Comfortable trekking shoes.

• Layered clothing (t-shirt, fleece, light down jacket, rain jacket).

• Sleeping bag (optional, teahouses provide blankets).

• Trekking poles (useful for descents).

• Water bottle with purification tablets.

13. Is this trek family-friendly?

Yes. Many families with children trek to Poon Hill since it is relatively short, lower altitude, and accessible.

14. How fit should I be?

• Moderate fitness required.

• You’ll walk 4–6 hours per day on stone steps and hilly terrain.

• Beginners with average fitness can complete it comfortably.

15. How much does the trek cost?

• Independent trek (with guide/porter): USD 350–600

• All-inclusive package with agency: USD 500–900
  (Cost depends on number of days, accommodation type, and group size.)

16. Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

• Yes, in most teahouses.

• Charging electronics costs extra (USD 1–3 per hour).

• Everest Link Wi-Fi cards also work in the region.

17. What is the highlight of the trek?

• Sunrise from Poon Hill: Panoramic views of Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machapuchare (Fishtail, 6,993 m), and Nilgiri ranges.

• Walking through rhododendron forests and staying in traditional Magar & Gurung villages.

18. Can I combine Poon Hill with other treks?

Yes. Many trekkers combine Poon Hill with:

• Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

• Mardi Himal Trek

• Khopra Ridge Trek

• Longer Annapurna Circuit sections

19. Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. While it’s a short trek with lower risk, travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations is highly recommended.

20. What makes this trek special compared to others?

• Short & beginner-friendly (4–5 days).

• Spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill.

• Rich Gurung & Magar culture.

• Accessible from Pokhara without flights.

• Lower altitude, making it safe for beginners and families.

🥾 Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek Equipment & Gear List

The Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek is short (4–5 days) and relatively easy compared to high-altitude treks in Nepal. You won’t need heavy expedition gear, but being properly equipped will make the trek far more comfortable.

Here’s a categorized packing list:

1. 🧥 Clothing

Since the trek ranges from 1,000 m (Pokhara/Nayapul) to 3,210 m (Poon Hill), temperatures can vary. Pack in layers for flexibility.

Upper Body

• 2–3 breathable trekking T-shirts (quick-dry, not cotton)

• 1–2 long-sleeved shirts (for sun protection and layering)

• 1 warm fleece jacket or pullover

• 1 lightweight down jacket (essential for chilly mornings at Poon Hill)

• 1 waterproof/windproof shell jacket

Lower Body

• 2 pairs trekking pants (lightweight, quick-dry)

• 1 pair thermal leggings (for sleeping or cold mornings)

• 1 pair shorts (optional, good for warmer lower sections)

Undergarments

• Moisture-wicking underwear (4–5 pairs)

• Sports bras (for women, quick-dry)

• 3–4 pairs trekking socks (wool or synthetic, not cotton)

• 1–2 pairs warm socks for evenings

2. 👟 Footwear

• Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots (ankle support recommended)

• Comfortable lightweight shoes/sandals (for evenings and teahouses)

• Gaiters (optional, useful in rainy season or snowy trails)

3. 🎒 Bags & Backpacks

• Main backpack (35–50L if carrying yourself) OR

• Duffel bag (if hiring a porter; usually 60L)

• Daypack (20–30L, for water, snacks, camera, jacket during hikes)

• Rain cover for backpacks

4. 🛏️ Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag (optional – teahouses provide blankets, but for winter, bring at least a 0°C to –5°C rated bag)

• Sleeping bag liner (for hygiene and extra warmth)

5. 🧢 Headwear & Accessories

• Sun hat or cap (for daytime sun protection)

• Warm beanie/hat (for mornings at Poon Hill)

• Buff or scarf (multi-use: dust, wind, or neck warmer)

• Sunglasses (UV protection, polarized preferred)

• Lightweight gloves (fleece or wool)

6. 💧 Hydration & Snacks

• 1 reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (1–2L capacity)

• Water purification tablets/drops or SteriPen

• Energy bars, nuts, chocolates, or trail mix (teahouse shops have limited options)

7. 🧼 Toiletries & Personal Care

• Biodegradable soap or small shampoo

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss

• Wet wipes / baby wipes (useful for limited showers)

• Quick-dry towel (small or medium size)

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)

• Lip balm with SPF

• Hand sanitizer

8. 💊 First Aid & Medications

• Personal medications (in labeled packets)

• Basic first aid kit:

  • Band-aids/plasters

  • Antiseptic cream

  • Pain relievers (paracetamol/ibuprofen)

  • Rehydration salts

  • Blister treatment (Compeed/moleskin)

• Motion sickness/anti-nausea tablets (if you get car sick on the Pokhara–Nayapul drive)

(Altitude medication like Diamox is generally not needed, since the trek stays below 3,500 m.)

9. 📱 Gadgets & Electronics

• Headlamp (with spare batteries)

• Mobile phone + charger + power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)

• Camera (optional, but Poon Hill sunrise is stunning)

• Universal travel adapter

• Kindle/book/cards (for evenings in teahouses)

10. 📑 Documents & Money

• Passport + photocopies

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• TIMS card

• Travel insurance documents (print + digital copy)

• Cash in Nepalese rupees (ATMs are only in Pokhara; carry enough for trek expenses)

11. 🔑 Optional but Useful Items

• Trekking poles (very helpful for steep descents)

• Lightweight sleeping sack (if you don’t carry a sleeping bag)

• Small thermos (nice for hot tea at sunrise point)

• Playing cards/notebook/journal

• Plastic bags/dry sacks (for organizing and keeping gear dry)

📝 Packing Tips for Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek

• Pack light, since it’s only 4–5 days. Overpacking will make the trek harder.

• Layer clothing instead of carrying bulky items.

• Renting gear is easy in Pokhara (jackets, sleeping bags, poles, etc.).

• Teahouses provide blankets, so you don’t need a heavy-duty sleeping bag unless trekking in winter.

• Carry small denominations of Nepali rupees for tea houses and snacks.