STAY CONNECTED
Government Licence No.: 131483/071/072
STAY CONNECTED
July 20, 2020
As you embark on the Ghorepani Pun Hill trek, you will be enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna region, where you will be surrounded by towering mountains, vibrant local culture, lush forests, and stunning sunrise views from Pun Hill. This trek is also known as the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek in Nepal.
The Ghorepani Pun Hill trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, and it offers the perfect opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas. With multiple routes to choose from, ranging from 2 days to 7 days, this trek is both easy and budget-friendly.
What sets this trek apart is its safety, as it is not known for causing acute mountain sickness among trekkers. This makes it a great option for both first-time trekkers and seasoned adventurers.
The trail begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, and from there, we follow the valley on the right side until we reach Birethanti. As we traverse the trail, we will pass through picturesque rice terrace fields, bridges, and typical local houses.
What’s great about the Ghorepani Pun Hill trek is that it can easily be customized to fit your time and budget preferences. Whether you’re seeking a short trek to explore the Himalayas for the first time, or looking for a new adventure, this trek is perfect for you.
Trek distance⇒ 40 kilometers (25 miles)
Accommodation⇒ Lodge/Guest House
Trails Ascents ⇒ 3,000 m
Trails Descents⇒ 1,996 m
Required Permits ⇒ Annapurna conservation area permits (ACAP) & TIMs permit
Total trek duration⇒ 2 to 5 days
Trek starts from⇒ Nayapul-2 hours drive from Pokhara
Trek ends at⇒ Siwi (duration of your trek determines where you end your trek though)
Highest elevation⇒ Pun hill at 3210 meters
Difficulty level⇒ Easy to Difficult
Available Foods ⇒ Local Nepal, Indian, and western foods
Per day walk ⇒ 4 to 6 Hours
Package price ⇒ 5 days package trek cost about $450 US per person (But the services determine the cost)
Guide salary⇒ $25 US a day (you can have a guide with $20 US too, but he is not really smart)
Highlights of the trek ⇒ Sunrise view from the Pun hill over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif.
1. Facts of Ghorepani Pun Hill Trek
2. Ghorepani Pun Hill trek Detailed Itinerary
3. Permits for Ghorepani- Pun Hill Trek
4. Best Time for Pun Hill Trek
5. General Information on Ghorepani Pun Hill Trek
6. Packing list
7. Physical fitness
8. Concluding
The Ghorepani Pun Hill Trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal is the perfect choice for those seeking a short hike lasting 2 days, 3 days, or 4 days. This trek provides a detailed itinerary that includes all the essential information about the trails, nearby landscapes, food and drink options, safety measures, and difficulty levels. With this information at your fingertips, you can plan your trek accordingly and enjoy a wonderful experience in the beautiful Himalayas.
Ghorepani entry gate at Lower Ghorepani.
The Ghorepani trek is an excellent option for trekkers looking to experience the beauty of Nepal’s Himalayas in a short period. While the full trek can take up to a week to complete, there are many alternative options for trekkers, including a 2-day trek to Ghorepani and Pun Hill.
This quick trek is perfect for those who have limited time but want to make the most of their visit to Pokhara. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who finds themselves with a few extra days in Pokhara and wants to explore the surrounding mountains.
The 2-day trek takes you through the picturesque villages of Ulleri and Ghorepani, with stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range along the way. The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the sunrise view from Pun Hill, which offers panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre.
Safe Holiday Adventure, a local travel agency in Kathmandu, offers a guided 2-day Ghorepani Pun Hill trek that includes accommodation, meals, and a knowledgeable guide. The trek can be tailored to your preferences and fitness level, ensuring that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor to Nepal, the Ghorepani trek is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country. With its stunning mountain views, charming villages, and friendly locals, this trek is a must-do for anyone visiting Pokhara.
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Banthanti (2,210 m), then trek to Ghorepani (2,840 m): (3 hrs. Drive & 4 hrs. Walk)
The Pun Hill trek commences from the beautiful city of Pokhara. On the first day, we start with an early morning drive straight to Banthati, passing through Nayapul, Birethanti, Thikhedunga, and Ulleri. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, and we take a short break on arrival to have lunch.
Afterward, we start our trek by walking into the magnificent forest filled with beautiful orchids and Rhododendrons for approximately 2 hours until we reach Nange Thanti. From there, we continue for an hour on a steep stone-made path that leads us through the dense forest until we reach Ghorepani, where we will be staying for the night.
Ghorepani is a charming village located at an altitude of 2,850 meters, surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains. It is an excellent place to rest and rejuvenate before the next leg of the trek. The village is known for its hospitality and warmth, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.
As the trek continues, we will witness some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayas, with the highlight being the sunrise view from Pun Hill. Safe Holiday Adventure offers guided Pun Hill treks that include accommodation, meals, and a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all trekkers.
Day 02: Early morning hike to Pun Hill (3,210 m) and trek descent to Hille, after that drive to Pokhara (1,920 m): (4 -5 Hrs. Walk & 2 Hrs. Drive)
We will be embarking on an early morning hike to Pun Hill view station today, which will take approximately 50 minutes from Ghorepani. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking, showcasing the immense Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range. We will spend around 30 minutes taking in the stunning sunrise before descending towards Hille.
Following our wonderful experience at Pun Hill, we will retrace our steps back to Banthanti and take a brief rest before continuing our trek with a steep descent towards Hille. Our walk will culminate at Hille, where we will take a jeep to our final destination, Pokhara.
View from Tadapani village
Day 1: Bus drives from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Hille (1,500 m): 2 Hrs. Drive & 3 Hrs. Walk)
Our journey commences in Pokhara, where we will be driven to Nayapul in a private car or jeep, a scenic two-hour drive through the mountains. Upon arrival at Nayapul, we will don our trekking attire and venture into the picturesque valley of Modi Khola. A leisurely 20-minute walk along the river will lead us to Birethanti.
At Birethanti, all trekkers are required to present their permits and TIMs permits before crossing a bridge over Modi Khola and embarking on the left trail. The trail ascends alongside the steam, offering splendid views of terrace fields and traditional local houses.
Today is a relatively easy day, and we will come across several local restaurants where we can stop for tea, coffee, lunch, or snacks, depending on our preferences. Ramgai is an ideal spot for lunch on the first day, following which we will walk for an hour on a wide road to Hille, where we will spend the night at a lodge.
Day 2: Hille to Ghorepani (2,820 m): 6 hours walk
Day two of our trek is relatively more challenging than the previous day, as we will be walking for around six hours on ascending trails. However, the journey from the hill to Ghorepani is a natural, less dusty, and forested path, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Our trek from Hille to Ulleri is a steep climb of approximately two hours, with no shade. It may be short, but it is undoubtedly challenging. After the Ulleri village, the trail becomes gradual along the cliff of the mountain. The next stop is Banthanti, which is only a 45-minute walk away.
We will take a lunch break at Banthanti before continuing our trek towards Nangethanti, surrounded by tranquil forests. The path beyond Banthanti is peaceful, as most trekkers stop at different places for lunch, dispersing along the trail.
It is recommended to carry sufficient drinking water after crossing Banthanti, as there are no shops en route. From there, we will continue our journey towards Ghorepani via Banthanti, walking for three hours through the rhododendron forest. We will spend the night in Ghorepani, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Ghorepani – Pun hill – Banthanti then drives to Pokhara.
We begin our day with an early morning hike to Pun Hill to witness the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountains. Before setting off, we will pack a small bag with essential items such as a water bottle, energy bars, camera, and some local currency.
The trek from Ghorepani to Pun Hill is a steep climb through a small forest, taking about 50 minutes. However, the stunning views from Pun Hill are well worth the effort, as it is the prime location to witness the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
After spending an unforgettable time at Pun Hill, we will retrace our steps back to Ghorepani for a delicious breakfast. From there, we will begin our descent down to Banthanti.
Once we reach Banthanti, we will manage our transport and take a drive to Pokhara, marking the end of our trek. Along the way, we can enjoy the picturesque views of the mountains and reflect on the incredible experiences of our journey.
Incredible sunrise view from Pun hill -3,210 m
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara Hotel to Nayapul then, hike to Hille, Thikhedunga (1,470 m/1,530 m)
Trek begins from Pokhara. We have about 2 hours of drive today to Nayapul. Further, we follow popular trails towards Birethanti. We check in the ACAP permits and TIMs card here then continue to walk along the stream in the left valley.
Today, we will have a pleasant day passing all fresh and natural atmospheres. It is 3 hours of walk-in total on a road. During our trek today, we are in the valley between two massif green hills filled with seasonal crops. Today, you can observe so many highlights about the country life of Nepal.
We will stay in the lodge. The lodges are mostly built of wood and local technology; however, you can have a private room to sleep in.
Day 02: Hille to Ghorepani (2,840 m): 6 Hour walk
On the second day of the trek, we set off in the early morning to reach Ghorepani. The trail is quite steep until we reach Ulleri (2,070 m), after which the ascent becomes more gradual. Along the way, we will get to see some local houses and terraced fields, and we will also pass through peaceful forests in Nangethanti. If we’re lucky, we may even catch a glimpse of some wild animals before we arrive in Ghorepani.
Ghorepani is a large settlement populated mostly by the Magar people, and it is a popular spot for trekkers. We will spend a night there in a local lodge.
Day 03: Pun hill hike in the morning, then head down to Tadapani (2,600 m)
Today is an exciting day on this trip; we will hike up to the viewpoint of Pun Hill (3,210 m) to witness a stunning sunrise. Pun Hill is the most popular sunrise spot in Nepal, as it offers a 360-degree view of the entire mountain range of central Nepal.
After a wonderful time at Pun Hill, we will head back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue trekking towards Tadapani. As we start the trek from Ghorepani, we will ascend slowly to the hill station and get another chance to admire the stunning high mountain peaks and rolling green hills on the other side.
The route then drops down to Banthanti through a forest of fir, orchid, and rhododendron. We will take a lunch break in Banthanti and then walk for an hour to reach Tadapani.
Tadapani is a small area situated on the ridge of the mountains, with the Annapurna South and Fishtail Mountains close by.
Day 04: Tadapani to Si-WI via Ghandruk then drive to Pokhara.
Today marks the successful completion of our trek, as we embark on the final leg of our journey. We will begin with an early meal at the Tadapani lodge before setting off towards Siwi. The initial hour-long trek through the forest is a gradual and easy one. Following this, we will descend steeply through Bhaisikharka, followed by a gradual walk to Ghandruk.
The three-hour walk from Tadapani to Ghandruk is a pleasant one through the forest. We will pause for lunch in Ghandruk, the largest Gurung community in Nepal, before descending steeply to Siwi to catch a bus or jeep to Pokhara. The final hour of our trek may be hot today, but the breathtaking view will make it worthwhile. From Siwi, we will take a jeep or bus to Pokhara via Nayapul.
Upon arriving in Pokhara, you can enjoy a lovely evening with your local guide and porter.
To trek to Ghorepani-Pun Hill, you need to obtain two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
The ACAP is a permit issued by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office, which is located in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This permit is required to enter and trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can obtain the ACAP by presenting a copy of your passport and two passport-sized photographs.
The TIMS card is a mandatory permit issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN). The card is designed to ensure the safety and security of trekkers in the region. To obtain a TIMS card, you need to fill out an application form and submit it to the TAAN office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You will also need a copy of your passport and two passport-sized photographs.
It is important to note that both permits are required for the Ghorepani-Pun Hill trek, and you will need to show them at various checkpoints along the way. Make sure to obtain the permits in advance to avoid any inconvenience during your trek.
Permits &TIMs Card:
Annapurna conservation area permit(ACAP)
TIMs card permits- Trekking information management systems
The permit fees for Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek are 3,000 Nepali rupees for the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and 1,000 Nepali rupees for the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, which amounts to approximately 20 US dollars for individual trekkers. If you have booked your trek through a trekking agency, they will take care of the permit process for you, so you need not worry about it.
However, if you plan to trek alone without a guide or porter, you will need to purchase the permits yourself. You can obtain the ACAP permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Brikutimandap, Kathmandu, or the Dam-side office in Pokhara. The TIMS card can be obtained from the Thamel office in Kathmandu or the Dam-side office in Pokhara.
Ascending up to the Gurung Hill from Ghorepani.
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas, the Pun Hill trek is a dream come true for avid trekkers and nature enthusiasts. However, to make the most of this spectacular trek, it is essential to choose the right time of year to embark on the journey.
The best time for the Pun Hill trek is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is relatively dry and stable, with clear skies that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
In spring, the hillsides are ablaze with rhododendron blooms of various colors, lending a vibrant and picturesque landscape to the trek. The fall season, on the other hand, boasts a mild temperature and a relatively clear sky, making it an ideal time to enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the summit of Poon Hill.
While the winter months offer clear skies and stunning vistas, the cold temperatures and occasional snowfall make it challenging for inexperienced trekkers. Similarly, the monsoon season, which typically lasts from June to August, is characterized by heavy rainfall and frequent landslides, making it a less favorable time for the trek.
Choosing the right time to embark on the Poon Hill trek is crucial to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, experiencing the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas during the optimal season will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.
The Ghorepani Pun Hill trek is a popular trekking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek takes you through picturesque villages, dense forests, and stunning mountain landscapes, culminating in a visit to the iconic Poon Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The trek typically takes 4-5 days, covering a distance of approximately 32 km. The starting point for the trek is the town of Nayapul, which can be reached by a short drive from the city of Pokhara. From Nayapul, the trail follows the Modi River and passes through quaint villages such as Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, where you can experience the unique culture and traditions of the local communities.
Accommodations:
The Ghorepani Pun Hill trek is a popular route in the Annapurna region, which means that there is an abundance of tea houses and lodges along the way. These accommodations offer private rooms with twin sharing beds, complete with blankets, bed sheets, pillows, mattresses, and a small tea table. Due to the trek’s popularity, it is important to pre-book your accommodation to ensure availability.
As you ascend higher, the accommodation is generally basic but clean and safe. However, there are some guesthouses that offer additional amenities, such as private bathrooms with hot and cold showers, well-maintained charging plugs, Wi-Fi, and proper meals.
Foods & Drinks
While trekking on the Ghorepani Pun Hill trail, you will come across several places to stop and have food, approximately every 5 minutes. The first and last day of the trek offer a plethora of options to choose from.
It’s important to note that the food available in the mountains is fairly basic and may not be of a high standard. During peak season, lodges can be quite crowded, so it’s best to place your dinner order before 5 pm, as there are only a few people working in the kitchen. You can expect to find a variety of food options including western, Chinese, Nepali, and Indian cuisine, with vegetable and egg-based dishes being the most recommended. However, those with sensitive stomachs may want to avoid meat items.
Some of the most common foods and drinks available during the trek include Dhal-Bhat (Nepali set), momo, pasta, pizza, fried rice, fried noodles, set breakfast, basic burgers, bread, sandwiches, tea, coffee, soft beverages, alcohol, mineral water, juice, and hot water.
The food served during the Ghorepani trek is generally fresh, clean, and sometimes even organic. It’s important to note that bringing your own food is not allowed in the lodges. If you are caught with your own food in your room or at the dining table, you may be charged a penalty.
When preparing for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, it’s important to pack smartly and efficiently. Here are some of the essential items that you should consider bringing with you:
Remember to pack light and only bring the essentials, as you will be carrying your own backpack for most of the trek.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a moderately challenging trek that requires a certain level of physical fitness. Here are some tips to help you prepare physically for the trek:
Cardiovascular training: The trek involves several uphill and downhill sections, so it’s essential to have good cardiovascular fitness. You can build this by doing regular cardio exercises like jogging, swimming, cycling, or using a treadmill.
Strength training: Trekking involves carrying a backpack and negotiating rocky terrain, so it’s important to build strength in your legs and core muscles. Exercises like squats, lunges, and leg presses can help you build leg strength, while planks and crunches can help you build core strength.
Flexibility training: Flexibility is essential for trekking, as it can help you avoid injury and muscle soreness. Stretching exercises like yoga, Pilates, or simple stretches can help improve your flexibility.
Altitude training: The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek involves hiking at high altitudes, which can be physically challenging. To prepare for this, you can do altitude training by hiking at higher elevations in your area.
Take it slow: Remember to take the trek at a slow and steady pace, allowing your body to acclimatize to the altitude and the physical demands of the trek.
Consult your doctor: If you have any health concerns or pre-existing medical conditions, consult with your doctor before embarking on the trek.
By following these tips and gradually building up your physical fitness, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.
In conclusion, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an amazing and popular trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality of the Nepalese people. The trek is moderate in terms of difficulty, making it accessible to most trekkers, with proper preparation and training.
The best time to do the trek is from September to November and March to May. With comfortable tea houses, good food, and a chance to witness a beautiful sunrise at Poon Hill, this trek is truly a memorable experience. Proper packing and physical fitness are key to a successful trek, and it’s important to take care of the environment by following the principles of responsible trekking. Overall, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an incredible adventure that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and physical challenge.
You can customize the itinerary for the Ghorepani pun hill trek click here.
If you want more information or help, please feel free to contact us.
Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd.
P.O.Box: 20065
Nayabazar-16,Khusibu,Kathmandu, Nepal
Cell: 00977 9849116284
Email: info@safeholidayadventure.com,
safeholidayadventure@gmail.com
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