Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Nepal's quintessential short trek — one of the world's most famous sunrise viewpoints with an unobstructed panorama of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna massif.
Distance
50 km
Duration
4 days
Elevation Gain
2,200m
Max Elevation
3,210m
Min Elevation
1,070m
Highest Point
Poon Hill (3,210m)
Difficulty
Easy
Best Season
October-November, March-April
Route Type
Loop / Circuit
Permit Required
Yes
Permit Cost
USD 40
Permit Information
ACAP permit (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card (NPR 2,000) required
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is Nepal's quintessential short trek and arguably the best sunrise viewpoint trek in the Himalayas. The pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill (3,210m) rewards trekkers with an unobstructed 180-degree panorama spanning from Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to Manaslu (8,163m), with the full Annapurna massif and Machhapuchhre dominating the skyline.
The trail follows stone-stepped paths through terraced rice paddies, dense rhododendron forests spectacular in March-April bloom, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages. The return route commonly loops through Tadapani and the picturesque Gurung village of Ghandruk.
This trek requires no technical skills and is suitable for fit beginners, families, and older trekkers. Teahouse infrastructure is excellent with comfortable lodges and hot meals. Its proximity to Pokhara (90 minutes to the trailhead) makes it the most popular short trek in Nepal.