From Pokhara: 3-Day Ghorepani Poonhill Short Trek

From Pokhara: 3-Day Ghorepani Poonhill Short Trek
Location: Pashchimanchal, Western Region, Nepal
Country: Nepal
Rating: 5/5 (based on 5 reviews)
Price: $160 per person
Supplier: Linkage Tour & Travel

A quick snapshot of the experience:

Imagine starting your day with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then setting off on a gentle, well-paced trek through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced farms. Over three days, you’ll visit Ulleri, Ghorepani, and most memorably, climb up to Poon Hill for an unforgettable sunrise over the Himalayan giants. For just $160, the journey includes guided walks, cozy accommodations, and all necessary permits—making this a practical choice to see Nepal’s famed Annapurna region without a lengthy commitment.

What we love most? First, the expert guides like Bidur and Paras, who make the trekking feel safe and engaging, no matter your experience level. Second, the spectacular panoramic views at Poon Hill, where you’ll witness the sunrise over peaks like Annapurna and Machhapuchchhre—a truly humbling sight.

One thing to keep in mind: this trek is designed to be accessible and not overly strenuous, which makes it ideal for most travelers, but if you’re looking for a challenging or high-altitude adventure, you might want to explore longer or more demanding treks.

If you’re after a short, scenic, and authentic Himalayan experience with friendly guides and stunning vistas, this tour suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager for a taste of mountain life without a week-long commitment.

Key Points

• Short and manageable: A 3-day trek perfect for those with limited time or new to trekking.
• Inclusion of transportation and permits: No hidden costs, everything organized for a smooth trip.
• Breathtaking sunrise views: Poon Hill offers one of the best sunrise vistas in the Himalayas.
• Authentic village life: Walk through local villages, farms, and forests, gaining insight into Nepali rural life.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides like Bidur and Paras enhance safety and storytelling.
• Good value for money: With cozy accommodations, permits, and guiding included, it offers a lot for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Nayapul to Ulleri (5-6 hours)

Your adventure begins early with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. We appreciated how seamless this transfer was, with hotel pickup and shared transportation included—no fuss and no extra planning needed. Once at Nayapul, you’ll start walking along the Modi Khola River, passing through vibrant villages like Birethanti, which is a lively hub of local life and a good place to stretch your legs.

The trek up to Ulleri (1940 m) is gentle but rewarding, with views of terraced fields and mountain overlooks. The highlight here is the chance to see how villagers live in the mountains—small farms, goats, and children playing in the dirt. We loved the balance of nature and local culture here, which makes the trek feel genuine, not touristy.

The walk concludes with an overnight stay at a cozy lodge in Ulleri, where the simple comfort of a mountain guesthouse is surprisingly good value. The reviewers highlighted how well-organized and helpful the guides are, especially when dealing with variable weather or a trekker feeling unwell.

Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani (4-5 hours)

This day takes you through oak and rhododendron forests—neon green in spring, fiery reds in autumn. The trail meanders through Nangathanti (2460 m), a small village with sweeping views, before the uphill climb to Ghorepani (2870 m). The route is steady but manageable, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery.

Ghorepani is a friendly village and a hub for trekkers. The lodges here are well-equipped, and many reviews praise the quality of the overnight stay, noting that the beds have heating and that food is plentiful and tasty—important after a day on the trail.

This segment is particularly charming: walking through forests, watching local children tend to farms, and noticing the changing vegetation. The trail’s moderate difficulty level makes it accessible for most, yet rewarding in terms of scenery.

Day 3: Poon Hill Hike & Return to Pokhara

The early morning starts with a one-hour hike up to Poon Hill (3210 m). We loved how peaceful and quiet the mountain feels at dawn, with only the sound of our footsteps and the distant calls of birds. Watching the sunrise over the Himalayan peaks—including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Himchuli, and Machhapuchchhre—is awe-inspiring.

The reviews echo this sentiment: travelers describe Poon Hill as one of the best viewpoints in Nepal. The surprise of seeing the peaks glow orange and gold as the sun rises is truly worth the early wake-up call.

After sunrise, you descend back to your lodge for breakfast before beginning the trek back down to Nayapul. The two-hour drive back to Pokhara wraps up your journey, giving you a chance to reflect on the landscapes, villages, and friendly guides.

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Why this trek works for most travelers

The carefully crafted itinerary balances scenic highlights with easy walking. It’s designed to give a taste of Nepal’s mountains without the intensity of longer treks like Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp. The guide’s expertise, as praised by previous travelers, keeps everyone safe and informed, while the included permits and transportation mean you don’t need to worry about logistics.

The accommodations are simple but comfortable, and the food along the way is generally good, with some reviews noting that prices are higher than average, so bringing some cash is wise. The small group size and private nature make it feel personalized, adding to the sense of adventure.

The Value of a Short Himalayan Trek

At $160, this tour offers impressive value. It includes all necessary permits, guiding services, transportation, and accommodations—a package that makes Nepal’s famous mountains accessible without breaking the bank. The quality of guides like Bidur, Paras, and Kshitiz clearly enhances the experience, showcasing local knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism.

You’ll leave with more than just photos; you’ll carry memories of village life, spectacular mountain sunrises, and a taste of Nepali hospitality. The trek’s pace is relaxed enough to enjoy the scenery, yet it offers enough challenge to give you a sense of achievement.

Who is this trek best suited for?

This experience is ideal for first-time trekkers, those with limited time, or travelers looking for a scenic, accessible taste of the Himalayas. It’s also perfect for families or groups wanting a manageable but authentic mountain adventure. If you’re after a short trek with big views and friendly guides, this is a solid choice.

Practical considerations

• Transport: Shared vehicle from Pokhara to Nayapul—smooth and included.
• Guides: Fluent in English, knowledgeable about local culture and geography.
• Accommodation: Basic but comfortable lodges with heating and good food.
• Permits: All included, saving you hassle at entry points.
• Meals: Not included, but available for purchase—bring some cash for extras.
• Difficulty: Suitable for most, with some elevation gain but manageable terrain.
• Best time to go: While not explicitly mentioned, spring and autumn are generally ideal in Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to be manageable for most, with gentle and steady walking, plus the option to skip the most challenging parts if necessary.

Are meals included?
No, meals are available for purchase along the route. Travelers should bring some extra cash to buy local food, which is generally good and filling.

What about altitude?
The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, which is well below risky altitudes, making it suitable for most travelers without altitude sickness concerns.

How physical is the trek?
It’s described as a short, accessible trek, with a balance of easy and moderate walking. Some sections are uphill, but guides help pace the group and ensure everyone stays comfortable.

What kind of guides will I have?
The guides are experienced, English-speaking locals who are praised for their helpfulness and organization, ensuring both safety and storytelling along the way.

Can I do this trek alone?
It’s recommended to join a guided tour for safety, local knowledge, and logistical ease, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Nepal’s trekking routes.

Final thoughts

This 3-day trek from Pokhara to Poon Hill offers an excellent dose of Himalayan beauty without the heavy commitment of longer routes. With friendly guides, cozy accommodations, and unforgettable views, it provides a genuine taste of Nepal’s mountain life. The included permits and transportation ease the planning, making it an appealing option for a first Himalayan adventure or a scenic escape from Pokhara.

Whether you’re craving a peaceful sunrise, the chance to walk through mountain villages, or simply want a manageable trek with big rewards, this tour fits the bill. It’s a chance to see some of the most iconic peaks in the world, all within a short time frame and budget.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and beautiful Himalayan experience, this short trek from Pokhara deserves a spot on your Nepal itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: