How Long is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

The Sunrise That Stays With You

Imagine standing on a quiet hilltop, wrapped in a warm jacket, waiting for the sun to rise. Slowly, the sky glows pink, then orange. One by one, the snowy peaks of the Annapurna range begin to shine. This is the magic of Ghorepani Poon Hill, one of the most popular short treks in Nepal.

Many people ask: How long is the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek? It’s the perfect question because this trek is known for being short, easy to plan, and full of rewards.

Trek Length, Distance & Elevation

Here are the key facts:

Average Duration: 4 to 5 days

Total Distance: Around 40–55 kilometers (25–34 miles) depending on the route

Maximum Elevation: 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) at Poon Hill

Starting Point: Usually from Nayapul or Tikhedhunga (about 1,070 meters / 3,510 feet)

This trek is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone short on time. Even though it’s not very long, it offers beautiful mountain views, peaceful forests, and friendly villages.

Route Overview

There are different ways to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. Here’s one of the most common 5-day plans:

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then trek to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri

Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani

Day 3: Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise, then trek to Tadapani

Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk village

Day 5: Trek down to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara

Some people finish it in 4 days by skipping Ghandruk, while others take longer to enjoy the views and culture.

What Makes This Trek Special?

1. Short but Scenic

In just a few days, this trek gives you clear views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and more. You don’t need to go very high or very far to see these giant mountains.

2. Safe Altitude

With a maximum height of 3,210 meters, altitude sickness is rare on this trek. That’s why it’s great for beginners and even older travelers or kids.

3. Colorful Forests and Villages

The trail goes through rhododendron forests, stone staircases, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages. During spring, the forest blooms with red, pink, and white flowers.

4. A Famous Sunrise

The main highlight is the sunrise from Poon Hill. Trekkers hike early in the morning with flashlights. The view from the top is one of the best in Nepal.

How Hard Is the Trek?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is considered easy to moderate, making it one of the best treks in Nepal for beginners, families, and those looking for a shorter mountain adventure. It doesn’t require advanced trekking experience, but it still offers a good physical challenge, especially for first-time trekkers.

One of the toughest parts of the trek is the steep stone staircase from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, where trekkers must climb over 3,000 steps in a single stretch. This section can feel tiring, especially on the first day, but it’s manageable with a steady pace and regular breaks. After that, the trail becomes gentler, with rolling hills, forests, and more gradual climbs leading up to Ghorepani.

The altitude on this trek also remains relatively safe. The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), which is not high enough to cause altitude sickness for most people. This makes the trek accessible even to those who have never been at high elevation before.

In short, while the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek will make you sweat a little, it’s a safe and rewarding adventure that most people in decent health can complete with confidence.

Best Time to Trek

The best seasons for this trek are:

Spring (March to May): Warm weather and blooming rhododendrons

Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and great mountain views

Winter is also possible, but it can be cold. Monsoon season (June to August) is not ideal due to rain and leeches.

Helpful Tips for Trekkers

Start Early: Reach Poon Hill before sunrise to enjoy the full view

Pack Light: You don’t need heavy gear for this short trek

Hire a Guide or Porter: It adds comfort and supports the local economy

Stay Hydrated: Even on short treks, drink plenty of water

Respect the Culture: Smile, greet locals with “Namaste,” and enjoy the hospitality

Conclusion: A Short Trek with Big Rewards

So, how long is the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek? Just 4 to 5 days. But in that short time, you’ll climb through lush forests, visit peaceful villages, and watch the sun rise over the tallest mountains on Earth.

This trek is proof that you don’t need weeks or wild trails to feel the power of the Himalayas. One hill, one view, one journey—Ghorepani Poon Hill is truly a small trek with a big heart.

Whether it’s your first trek or a short escape into the mountains, this route is perfect for creating unforgettable memories. Every step takes you closer to nature, culture, and the magic of Nepal. It’s a journey anyone can enjoy—and one you’ll never forget.