Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is one of the most loved and spectacular trekking trail in Nepal that will let you explore the major attraction of the Annapurna region. The trial passes through the charming and historic ethnic villages, blooming Rhododendron forests and first rate mountain scenario. Poohnill, the smooth trekking fulfills your dream to see the glimpse of snow capped mountain peaks and be merry in the Himalayan Subculture which provides the lifetime experience. The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is also suitable for time bounded travelers who have limited time to spend in the Himalayas. Witnessing the beautiful sunrise from Poonhill viewpoint (3,210m) is the main highlight of the trek. Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is relatively easy trek compared to other, higher - altitude treks in Nepal.

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek begins after your arrival in Pokhara. After spending a night in Pokhara we take a drive to Nayapul, which takes around 1hr 30min. The trekking begins from Nayapul from where we walk through a beautiful village set at the foot of the Modi Khola valley named Birenthanti. We check in Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and demonstrate Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permit on the way. We then reach Banthanti as the trial continues through Tirkhedhunga crossing Burungdi Khola river, and Ulleri. From Banthanti, we continue our journey to Ghorepani crossing water streams and we walk through Nagnathanti.

After witnessing the mesmerizing sunrise over some of the highest mountains: Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna (8,091m) and Machhapuchhare (Fishtail - 6,993m) we descend to Ghorepani and leave for Chuile via Tadapani. From Chuile, we gradually trek to the famous Gurung village, Ghandruk. After visiting a beautiful village we trek down to Kimche where the trek finally ends and we take drive to Pokhara where you spend a night shopping in local market or have a nice time at the lake side. The next day you'll fly back to Kathmandu or other destination as per your travel itinerary.

Trip Details

  • Itinerary
  • Detail Itinerary
  • Trip Info
  • Weather
  • Equipment
  • Useful Info

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu [1,338m]. (Car).
Day 02:
Sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. "B".
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara [930 m]. “B”. (06-07 Hours drive).
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul trek to Ulleri [2,020 m]. "B,L,D". (Drive 01-01:30 Hours). Trek (05-06 Hrs).
Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani [2,810 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (03-04 Hrs).
Day 06: Sunrise trip to Poonhill in the morning back to Ghorepani, Trek to Chule [2,375 m] via Tadapani [2,645 m]. “B,L,D”. Trek (06-07 Hrs).
Day 07: Trek to Ghandruk [1,945 m] afternoon village visit. . “B,L,D”. Trek (03-04 Hrs).
Day 08: Trek to Kimche and drive to Pokhara [930 m]. “B,L”. (Trek+Car). Trek (02 Hrs). (Drive 02-03 Hours).
Day 09: Fly back To Kathmandu[1,338m]. "B". (Car+Flight+Car).
Day 10:
In Kathmandu [1,338m] Free day. “B”. (Car+Flight+Car).
Day 11: Trip ends! Fly back home, taking with you the memory of a life time. “B”.


Note:
If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Details Itinerary:


Day 01: Arrival to Kathmandu [1,330 m] - (B):
Upon your arrival, a representative from Adventure Treks Nepal will be waiting outside the airport gates to take you to the hotel. Depending on time of arrival, plans will be made for a briefing meeting once you have settled in. Please let us know if there is anything special you would like to do while in Kathmandu and we can help you arrange that. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 02: Cultural Tour in Kathmandu [1,330 m] - (B):
After Breakfast we Proceed for sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur city 15 km from Kathmandu, known as city of Devotees and center of medieval art and architecture founded by King Anand Dev in 889 AD, visit Nyatpola temple, the most beautiful temple of Nepal, the 15th century palace of 55 windows, Golden gate and other place of Interest. Lunch Time: 1300hrs-14:00hrs PM: Visit Pashupatinath temple one of the most sacred Hindu shrine in the World. The holy river Bagmati and the burning ghats and also visit one of the oldest and biggest stupa of Boudhanath. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara [970 m] - (B): Early in the morning, we drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal's lake city. Our bus follows a winding road over the valley rim and descends onto the Trisuli River. The journey is slow and steady as the road winds through villages and passing terrace fields before reaching our destination.

Pokhara is best known for its tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Normally, we arrive by mid afternoon so you have time to explore or relax as you prepare for the journey ahead.  Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 04: Drive to Nayapul, trek to Ulleri [2,020 m] - (B,L,D): After your breakfast at the hotel in Pokhara we begin our drive to Nayapul which is approximately 40 k.m. from Pokhara. The drive will take around 1 hour 30 min after which we will begin our trek. The first part of the trail takes us to Birethati where we will check in our ACAP permit and TIMS. We then cross the river at Birethati and head left along the gentle slope to Tikhedhunga where we cross the BhurungdiKhola River on two suspension bridges. After crossing the river we will start the steep climb to Ulleri where we will be spending the night. (Car+Trek). (Drive 01-01:30 Hours). Trek (05-06 Hrs). Overnight stay at Tea House.

Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani [2,810 m] - (B,L,D): After breakfast we continue our trek towards Ghorepani through the settlements of Banthati and Nangethati. We also pass a spring inside the forest after Banthati. Crossing the spring by a bridge we continue towards our destination. Occasional views of the peaks give way to a narrower valley, passing through Rhododendron forest then eventually reaching the village of Ghorepani where we spend a night. Trek (03-04 Hrs). Overnight stay at Tea House.

Day 06: Ghorepani to Chule [2,375 m] via Tadapani [2,630 m] - (B,L,D): During the night, your guide will check for clear weather to make the one-hour climb up to the Poonhill viewpoint at 3,210m. It’s usually misty when you start off and arrive, then at sunrise the clouds part to reveal one of the most majestic sunrises in the world; Machapuchhre, Annapurna South, Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri Mountain are all viewable from here.

We then head back to Ghorepani for breakfast before trekking down to Chule via  Tadapani.

Along the trail towards Tadapani, we make climb along ridges and through pine and rhododendron forests to Deurali (2,960 meters). After that we descend to the Banthanti, we then turn off to Chule via Tadapani. Overnight stay at Tea House. Trek (05-06 Hrs).

Day 07: Chule to Ghandruk [1,945m] - (B,L,D):
From Chule the trail descends through forests to Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a village of Gurung people, one of the ethnic groups of Nepal; they have their own dialect, culture, costume, and life style. Ghandruk is also home to many Gurkha soldiers. It is a famous destination for trekkers as it is known for its beautiful mountain views and within easy reach from Pokhara and Kathmandu. We have the afternoon to visit the Annapurna conservation office, Museum and explore the village. Overnight stay at Tea House. Trek (03-04 Hrs).

Day 08: Trek to Kimche drive to Pokhara [970 m] - (B,L): This is the last day of our trek. Today we will be having a relatively easy trek as we will just be trekking for around 02 hours. The views of Annapurna south, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and Fishtail are just extraordinary from Ghandruk . After breakfast we begin to descend on a trail towards Batase Danda. From Batase Danda it is just an approximately half an hour trek to Kimche. We take a Jeep or Bus from Kimche to Pokhara. The Jeep or Bus ride will be around 2-3 hours and the road moves along the Modi Khola. The evening is free time so you can have a good time around the lakeside area. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 09: Fly to Kathmandu [1,330 m] - (B): After breakfast in Pokhara, we have a mountain flight to Kathmandu; it is a thrilling exciting flight over forests, fields and villages with the Himalayas at the background. On arrival, we transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel. (22-25 m flight).

Day 10: Free day in Kathmandu [1,330 m] - (B): There are plenty of interesting sites to visit in the Kathmandu valley like the Old Palaces at Patan, Bhaktapur, Durbar square, Swayambhunath (the monkey temple or you may wonder down town Thamel to shop for souvenirs and sample the various restaurants of Kathmandu. We are happy to offer you some recommendations. This evening we will have a farewell local dinner at the Local restaurent with Culture Show. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 11: Fly back home [1,330 m] - (B): We will transfer you to the airport and assist with check-in procedures.

Note: If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Trip Cost Includes:

  • Arrival and Departure Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.
  • Cultural Tour with entrance fees.
  • Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking.
  • Pokhara-Nayapul Transport.
  • Kimche - Pokhara Transport.
  • Kathmandu -Pokhara Transport.
  • Pokhara - Kathmandu flights with airport Tax.
  • Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking guide and porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Ghorepni Poonhill Trekking Region map.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit fee.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • All Government taxes.
  • Office service charge.

Trip Cost Excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance of any kind
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 30 for 15 days you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
  • Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.

Weather information

We offer trekking in Nepal from mid-September to May. However within this period there are clear seasons in the weather. From early September the monsoon rains decrease. By mid-October through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 deg C at low altitude in October and nights can drop to below 0 deg C at higher altitudes.

Winter trekking, from December to February, offers cool to mild and clear days with often very cold nights. Daytime temperatures at low altitudes will be mild, around 20 deg C and at night may drop to 0 or as low as -10 deg C at the higher points. Occasionally winter storms can bring snow as low as 2500m.

In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up occasionally bringing afternoon rainstorms. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March, with temperatures of up to 30 deg C and mild nights at low altitudes. The increase in rainfall in the hills is more than compensated for by the spectacular displays of rhododendrons and other wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions, as in April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common. This is a period that generally has clear weather at the higher altitudes and is traditionally a time when mountaineering expeditions commence their ascents.

The monsoon creates a rainy season in Nepal, which lasts from mid-June to mid-September. During this time the Nepal Himalaya is unsuitable for trekking, with the exception of a few remote valleys. We offer treks during this period in Low altitude Treks in the Nepal Himalaya, Tibet & India (Kulu, Ladakh).

The post-monsoon period: From early September the monsoon rain starts to decrease. By mid-October through to mid-December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and decrease as you gain height. Over 3000 meters the daytime temperatures can vary as much as 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, and may be hotter or colder, depending on whether it is sunny or windy etc. At night at lower altitudes, temperatures do not normally drop much, although as you approach November it does get colder and the days shorter. Up high it can drop sharply at night, from 0 to minus 10 or 15 and more when camped on the ice or snow.

The pre-monsoon period:In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up bringing occasional afternoon rainstorms. Views of the mountains in the middle of the day and afternoon may often be obscured. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March with temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius and mild nights. At higher altitudes it is similar to the conditions of the post-monsoon period, however there is usually more snow, which has accumulated over the winter period. There are spectacular displays of rhododendrons and wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions ie April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common.

List of Clothing Equipments & Personal Effects

  • Lightweight Trekking (walking) (Waterproof) boots and spare laces. If new one is being bought, “walk then in” to avoid blisters. Also bring spare laces.
  • A pair of track shoes for evening and walk around campsite.
  • Warm Jackets (Fiber fill or down) down should be adequate.
  • A rainproof jacket with hood or ponchos (Get guaranteed Waterproof)
  • Woolen shirts and thick sweaters.
  • A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks.
  • Thermal underwear.
  • A tracksuit.
  • 2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
  • Few pairs of cotton T-shirts.
  • At least 1 lightweight long sleeved shirt is particularly to avoid sun born.
  • A woolen hat for morning and evening and Sun cap (Hat) during the day and ensure it has a wide brim to cover the face and neck..
  • A pair of gloves.
  • A pair of sandals to shower and campsite.
  • Few pair of thin and thick woolen socks.
  • Underwear: normal quantity and swimming costume.
  • Sleeping bags for night. (At least -20 Celsius)

Equipment and Accessories

  • Duffle bag or kit bag to carry gears while trekking. (We provide)
  • Daypack to carry personal day requirements. (25-30 Ltr) This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day
  • Water bottle.
  • Snow glasses and sunglasses.
  • 2-5 large plastic bags to separate clean and dirty clothes. Some small plastic bags for garbage.
  • Toiletries with large and small towels. Toilet paper can be by in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
  • Wallet or money belt with compartment for coins.
  • Headlamp or torch light with spare batteries and bulbs.Candles or lighter to burn toilet paper and to lit on.
  • Snow gaiters essential during winter and High Altitude trekking.
  • Walking poles. (If you like to have).
  • Camera with spare batteries and films
  • Reading materials, game items (optional), note book, rubber band, pen and pencil, envelopes, a diary, a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), a small pillow or headrest (optional). Thermoses (optional)- an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of
  • passport photograph
  • First aid kit with enough Personal medicine.

Physically prepare yourself: It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of trekking. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself: Mental preparation is often overlooked. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the trekachievable.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.

Trekking in Nepal need not be considered risky affair as far as your health is concerned. Nevertheless, preventive measures such as a through medical checkup and inoculations before you start trekking can save you from unexpected hazards. Since the remote places of Nepal are not supplied with necessities that are essential for modern medical facilities and as the rescue and evacuation are measured in days, it is imperative to make a comprehensive first aid box consisting of basic drugs and accessories as part of the paraphernalia for trekking. Modern dentistry is unknown in the hill of Nepal so it is advised to have a checkup before departure from home. Tooth fillings; sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and high altitudes, so it is recommended to have them checked. Travelers are requested to bring medicine prescribed by their doctor at home. Common medicine for stomach problems, headache, and malaria is available in Kathmandu. Medicine is usually not available in remote areas. So necessary medicine is advisable to carry with you. Before going to Nepal, it is advised to get injections against typhoid, meningitis and hepatitis.

OVERCOMING ALTITUDE PROBLEM: This is often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which is particularly a matter of important medical consideration while trekking in the Himalayas. Altitude Sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. Early mountain sickness will manifest itself in headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue; etc can be encountered as initials of the sickness. The major information source on prevention and treatment of the sickness is Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) and Adventure Treks Nepal (P). Ltd. is the confide life member of it. We assure every trekker that all our guides have followed the training conducted by HRA with the understated information.

CAUSE/FACTOR OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS
1. Less Oxygen
2. Low Pressure i.e. Barometric Pressure
3. Rapid Ascent
4. Possible Dehydration
5. Hypothermia TYPE OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

  TYPES ALTITUDE SICKNESS
1. AMS - Acute Mountain Sickness
2. HAPE - High Altitude Pulmonary Edema
3. Hace - High Altitude Cerebral Edema

SYMPTOMS
1. (AMS) ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS
Mild symptom feels like hangover/not feeling good
a. Headache
b. Fatigue/Tiredness
c. Nausea
d. Shortness of breath
e. Loss of appetite
f. Sleep disturbance
g. Dizziness

2. (HAPE) HIGH ALTITUDE PULMONARY EDEMA (Water in lungs)
a. Increasing shortness of breath even at rest
b. Severe cough-dry/Productive
c. Very tired-Unusual fatigue while walking
d. High Pulse rate i.e. 110
e. Blueness of face, lips, finger nails that means inability to transport Oxygen into the blood

3. (HACE) HIGH ALTITUDE CEREBRAL EDEMA (Water in the head)
Severe symptoms of altitude sickness
a. Severe Headache
b. Vomiting
c. Walking like a drunk (Ataxia)
d. Mental confusion/Altered mental status
e. Irritable-Does not want to be bothered by other people
f. Unconsciousness or Coma
TEST - Tandem walking test, Heel to toe step fall off from the line.

DECISION MAKING
1. Find out the main problem i.e. at altitude. Assume all problems are Altitude Sickness unless proven otherwise.
2. If it is an altitude problem with mild symptoms, stay at the same altitude until the symptoms are completely gone. Take an Aspirin tablet, try to go up but listen to your body. If symptoms are worsening, go down.

PREVENTION
1. Acclimatization: - After a 1000m. Ascent, stay one more night for acclimatization.
2. Do not make RAPID ASCENT; don't go too fast too high.
3. No alcohol, sleeping pills and smoking.
4. Drink more fluid 3-4ltrs a day… clean, boiled or treated water/tea/coffee/soup/juice etc.
5. Do not carry heavy packs.
6. Climb higher sleep lower.
7. Do not travel alone.

TREATMENT
1. DESCENT is the best medicine; do not wait for the Helicopter.
2. Medicine:
a. Oxygen.
b. Diamox…for AMS 125mg. Before dinner, for sleeping problem if feeling suffocated.
c. Nafedipine for HAPE
d. Steroids/Dexamethasone for HACE
3. Hyperbolic Bag - Gammow Bag
4. Golden Rules
a. Awareness of ALTITUDE SICKNESS
b. If you have mild symptoms, do not go higher. Take Aspirin.
c. If you have worsening symptoms, go down.
d. Do not leave your team member behind unattended, either trekker or porter.
5. IMPORTANT
a. Go up slowly.
b. Drink plenty of fluids (at least 3 liters per day)
c. Get all information about Altitude Sickness before your trekking tour that will make you confident to make your tour successful.

Our advice: Drink 3-4ltr of water minimum a day, don't exhaust yourself so much and breathe deep and take rest more than usual.

 

Physically prepare yourself: It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of trekking. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself: Mental preparation is often overlooked. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the trekachievable.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.