In recent years Poon hill and Ghandruk Trek has become the best short trek destination in Nepal. The reason behind is that it has the combination of both high-altitude adventure,nature and local mountain life.
Poon Hill (3,210m) :This is the highlight of this trek. As you reach this destination, you are near to gigantic beast, and it becomes clear why Poon Hill is such a compelling destination. Over the top of hill, you can see the 360 views of the mount Dhaulagiri range, Annapurna range and spectaular Machhapuchhure (fish tail).
Ghandruk Village: This village has become popular among tourist due to the extensive gurung settlement located here. All the entire house in the village is roofed with stone slates that represent the gurung culture. When walking through the narrow stone pathways in between those houses, one can expereince the sense of walking in the past. It is the profound way to observe the traditional weaving, farming practices and the way of living of the Gurung people.
Why Choose the Poon Hill & Ghandruk Trek?
1. Sunrise View from Poon Hill (3,210m)
The morning sunrise view from poon hill is considered the most significant part of Poon hill trek. From the view point it offers the awe-inspiring sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre.( Fish Tail). When the sunrise bathes the snow covered peaks, it creates the unimaginable mountain views of Nepal. For this reason, that’s why Poonhill is renowned as the best sunrise trekking destination in the Himalayas.
2. Explore the Beautiful Village of Ghandruk
In this trek the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk offers a profound cultural lifestyle of villagers. When you wander through the stone-paved alleys, see traditional houses and enjoy their hospitality, you will feel like you’ve found a new home away from home. This village offers close views of Annapurna south, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhure. Ghandurk can be the perfect loop for travelers , who want to experience mountain village life in a short duration.
3. Scenic Forest Trails & Rhododendron Bloom
The Poon Hill trek winds through enchanting rhododendron forests that burst into vibrant colors during spring (March–April). Along the trail, you’ll encounter mountain streams and waterfalls, terraced farmlands, and quaint settlements that embody authentic rural Nepal.
4. Easy & Short Trek – Perfect for Beginners
The Poon Hill and Ghandruk Trek is an easy to moderate level trek. Daily walking is manageable, and there are comfortable teahouses available along the route. It is ideal for first-time trekkers and travelers with limited time in Nepal.
Duration: 4–6 days Maximum altitude: 3,210 meters (Poon Hill) Best starting point:
Best Time for Poon Hill & Ghandruk Trek
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Spring (March–May): Clear skies and blooming rhododendrons
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Autumn (September–November): Best mountain visibility and stable weather
Winter is also possible for clear views, while monsoon offers greenery but limited visibility.
What Makes This Trek Special?
- Panoramic Himalayan sunrise
- Rich Gurung culture
- Short and time-friendly itinerary
- Comfortable teahouse accommodation
- Suitable for all age groups
- Perfect combination of nature and culture
Accommodation facilities during Poonhill and Ghandruk Trek
Poon Hill and Ghandruk treks offer comfortable teahouse accommodations tailored for short Himalayan adventures, focusing on affordability and local hospitality.
Teahouse
Along the trail, Teahouses are available on the route. They provide basic yet cozy twin sharing rooms with beds, blankets and pillow with a shared or attached bathroom. These simple wooden structures are run by Gurung families. The cost for a room in these tea houses ranges from $3- 6 USD per night and you have to pay for the food separately. It helps sustain the local economy and support locals.
Key Stops and Options
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Accommodations are wisely available in the trail, with multiple options, except peak seasons( Oct-Nov, Mar- May). So if you are travelling at this time, booking early is wise in places like Tadapani.
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For the dormitory, which are suitable for solo budget travelers cost (NPR 200-400).
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Private rooms can cost (NPR 1,000+) per night.
Amenities and Tip
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For the Solar hot water, it will cost NPR 300-500.
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Pack a sleeping bag liner for your hygiene
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You are still in a lower altitude zone, so no heated blankets are needed.
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Bring a power bank for backup, sometimes there will be a power cutoff due to weather conditions.
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Expect basic hygiene, carry supplies, and book ahead for better facilities in peak seasons.
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Common services include Wi-Fi (spotty, extra cost), charging (NPR 100-200/device), and meals like dal bhat or pasta (NPR 500-800/day)
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For your trekking clients, recommend homestays in Ghandruk for authentic Gurung dinners and stories to elevate the cultural experience.
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On the Poon Hill Trek comfortable western style toilets are limited, where most tea houses offer basic shared squat toilets. But in lower villages like Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani flushing options are available.
Transportation Need for Poonhill and Ghandruk Trek
Transportation from Kathmandu to the Poon Hill-Ghandruk trek starts with reaching Pokhara (200km, 5-8 hours), then local options to trailheads like Nayapul or Ghandruk ideal for your Kathmandu-based planning.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
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Flights are fastest; Domestic Flight25-30 min 4,000-7,000 (~$30-55 USD)Quick (Buddha/Yeti Airlines, hourly); scenic Phewa Lake landing. Weather delays possible.
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Road viable for budgets. Tourist buses depart Gongabu or Sorhakhutte Bus Parks (6-7 AM).
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Tourist Bus6-7 hrs1,200-2,000 (~$9-15)AC, WiFi, water; comfy (e.g., Greenline). Scenic Prithvi Highway.
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Local Bus7-9 hrs800-1,200 (~$6-9)Cheapest; crowded, stops. From Kalanki/Gongabu.
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Private Jeep/Car5-6 hrs10,000-15,000/group (~$75-110)Flexible, scenic; share for value.
Pokhara to Trailheads
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From Lakeside/Baglung Bus Park (taxi NPR 300) and takes 30-1 hours.
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Using a private vehicle costs around 8,000-12,000/group.
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The local bus costs (NPR) 300-800/person to reach Nayapul and takes 2-3 hrs to reach.
Full Journey Tips
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Total cost: NPR 3,000-15,000 round-trip. Book flights/buses via agencies; buses safer than night options.
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From Kathmandu, flight + jeep combo suits short treks arrive Pokhara by noon for permits/trek start.
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Road views of rivers, hills enhance curiosity to explore.
Alternative Trek Trail in Annapurna Region
Khopra Ridge Trek (Khopra Danda)
Comparing to Poonhill, the Khopra trek is more quite and less crowded one. Along the trek trail, it offers the view of Annapurna south, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Machhapucchure. But the sunrise view from its top is totally mesmerizing. This trek also has the side trip to Khayer Lake, which is the sacred lake for the locals of this places. Mostly the trek is offer to the vloggers and solitary trekkers, who want unexplore landscapes, desered paths and mountain life. The wide open views of hills, with exciting sunrise and sunset view is the cinematographic piece that you can capture.
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is among the gorgeous short-duration treks in the Annapurna region. It leads you near the foot of the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and from the Mardi Himal Base Camp offers magnificent mountain views. Along the path, one can admire lovely rhododendron woods and alpine ridges at height. For a vlog, Mardi is giving you Himalayan close-ups, daring ridge-walks, and less human intervention on the major routes.
Mohare Danda Trek
Along with the Mohare Danda Trail you get the experience of Poon Hill but with beautiful less crowded places in the Annapurna region. The Mohare Danda trek offering wonderful trails, great lodges of eco-community, and magnificent views of the Himalayas is mainly situated in the Parbat District.The term “Danda” in Nepali language stands for ridge, thus the trekkers from Mohare Danda (approximately 3, 300m) are able to admire the breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Required Permits Poon Hill Trek
Two main permits apply: the ACAP for environmental protection and the TIMS card for trekker tracking. ACAP costs NPR 3,000 (about USD 23) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC citizens; it’s checked at entry points like Nayapul (1,070m) and Ghorepani (2,874m). TIMS costs NPR 2,000 for foreigners (NPR 1,000 for SAARC) but may not be needed for guided groups under 2026 updates, though confirmation is advised.
How to Obtain
Head to Pokhara offices (open 10 AM-5 PM): Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) for TIMS, ACAP counter nearby (Lakeside or Tourist Bus Park). Process: 30-60 minutes.
Documents Needed:
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Passport (original, valid 6+ months).
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2 passport photos per permit.
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Trek itinerary/route.
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Cash (no cards); travel insurance proof recommended.
Agencies like yours can pre-arrange via email (scanned passport/photo); solo trekkers must go in person. Carry laminated originals throughout rangers inspect multiple times.
Tips for Your Trips
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There is no Restricted Area Permit Needed for this Trek ( unlike Manaslu).
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To complete the trek it takes 4-5 days, but if you want to extend then it is your choice.
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Remember the permit is untransferable and un-refundable, also valid for single entry only.
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For those who are coming from Kathmandu, please get visas first on the day of your arrival. Verification at offices for 2026 updates as rules.
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While meeting with locals, greet them with “Namaste”. It’s a sign of greeting and respect toward a person.
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Buy the local items and eat local foods, it can support the local economy.
Book Your Poon Hill & Ghandruk Trek with Us
Booking with the Planholidays Treks and Expeditions, we will handle all part of your accommodation, transportation, locals guides and permits. So you will feel safe,secure and comfortable while travelling. Whether you are planning a solo travel or family holiday we ensure your safety protocol and you can experience a memorable and meaningful Himalayan Experience.
Let the mountains inspire you. Let the sunrise move you. Experience the best short trek in Nepal with our expert team.
