Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Itinerary – A Short and Beautiful Himalayan Adventure

If you’re looking for a short, scenic, and unforgettable trek in Nepal, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek itinerary might be exactly what you need. Last month, I set out on this journey with a few close friends, and in just three days, we experienced everything from charming villages and rhododendron forests to some of the best mountain views I’ve ever seen. It was one of those treks that stays with you—not just because of the beauty, but because of how much you experience in such a short time.

We didn’t need weeks of planning or extreme fitness to enjoy this trek. The trail was simple, the people were welcoming, and the sunrise from Poonhill? Truly magical. Whether you’re new to trekking or just want a quick escape into nature, this route is a gem. Let me share our day-by-day journey and help you picture what this adventure looks like.

A Perfect Trek for Beginners and Nature Lovers

This trek is one of the best for beginner trekkers. You don’t need previous experience or technical skills. The trails are well-marked, the altitude is manageable, and there are comfortable teahouses along the way. In just three days, we saw snow-covered peaks, blooming rhododendrons, and got a taste of real Nepali culture.

We started from Pokhara, one of the most peaceful cities in Nepal, and made our way into the heart of the Annapurna region. Here’s how the journey unfolded.

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then Trek to Hile

We left Pokhara early in the morning. After a scenic drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours, we reached a small town called Nayapul. This is where the actual trek begins. The fresh mountain air and the sound of flowing rivers made us excited to hit the trail.

From Nayapul, we started walking through small villages and terraced fields. We passed by friendly locals, kids playing, and farmers working in their fields. The trail was gentle, with a few ups and downs, and not too tiring.

After around 3 to 4 hours of walking, we reached Hile, a small village where we stayed overnight. The guesthouse was simple but cozy, and the warm food felt amazing after the hike. We spent the evening watching the hills turn golden under the setting sun.

Day 2: Trek from Hile to Ghorepani

The second day was a bit more challenging but also the most beautiful. We started our trek after an early breakfast. The trail climbed steadily through thick forests and stone steps. We walked under tall rhododendron trees, crossed small streams, and took short breaks to enjoy the surroundings.

One of the highlights of the day was passing through Ulleri, a charming village known for its steep stone steps. The uphill climb can be a bit tiring, but we took it slow, and the views kept getting better. The higher we went, the cooler and fresher the air became.

After about 6 to 7 hours of walking, we finally reached Ghorepani, a village nestled among the hills at around 2,800 meters. The village offers a clear view of snow-covered peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. We stayed in a cozy teahouse, had a hearty meal, and went to bed early because the next morning would start before sunrise.

Day 3: Sunrise at Poonhill, then Back to Pokhara

This was the highlight of the entire trek. We woke up around 4:30 in the morning, grabbed our jackets and headlamps, and started the short climb to Poonhill. It took us about 45 minutes to reach the top.

As we waited in the chilly air, the sky slowly started to light up. Then, the magic happened.

The sunrise over the Himalayas is something I’ll never forget. The sky turned pink and orange, and one by one, the snow-capped peaks lit up. We saw Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and many more. It felt peaceful and powerful at the same time.

We took photos, sipped hot tea, and just stood there in awe.

After sunrise, we hiked back to Ghorepani, had breakfast, and began our descent. The downhill trail led us back through forests and villages, and by afternoon, we reached Nayapul. A short drive later, we were back in Pokhara, tired but full of joy.

Why I Loved This Trek

Even though it was just three days, this trek gave us a true taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and culture. The trail is rich with greenery, the people are kind, and the views are unforgettable. It’s not too long or too hard, which makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers like me.

We didn’t need to carry heavy gear, and we met trekkers from around the world along the way. I also enjoyed the peacefulness of being away from noise and distractions. It gave me time to breathe, reflect, and just enjoy the present moment.

Tips for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

Start early each day to enjoy the cool weather and reach your destination before late afternoon.

Pack light, but bring warm clothes for the mornings and nights.

Stay hydrated and walk at your own pace. There’s no need to rush.

Talk to the locals – they are friendly and full of stories.

Bring a camera – you’ll want to remember those mountain views.

Final Thoughts

The Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is short, sweet, and simply beautiful. Whether you're new to trekking or just looking for a quick Himalayan escape, this route is a perfect choice. We saw breathtaking views, walked through peaceful forests, and felt deeply connected to nature.

If you're ever in Nepal and have a few days to spare, don’t miss this trek. Sometimes, the shortest journeys leave the biggest mark on our hearts.