A four-day classic of the Annapurna foothills, the Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek delivers sunrise panoramas of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri with nights in village teahouses. Short days and steep stone stairways make it ideal for trekkers seeking big views on a compact itinerary.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The sky thins to slate before dawn and a single ribbon of orange slides along the ridgeline — that first light is what draws hikers up the switchbacks to Poon Hill. From the stone steps above Ghorepani, rows of jagged summits—Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchare—push into the cold, and the valley below opens into terraces and pine-scented gullies.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—regular walkers and people who can handle sustained uphill sections and stairs will be comfortable.
Wildlife
History
The trail passes Magar and Gurung communities with centuries of hill-farming and porter traditions; the Annapurna Conservation Area was established to protect landscapes and livelihoods.
Conservation
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project manages permits and promotes low-impact tourism—carry out waste, minimize single-use plastics and respect teahouse resource limits.
Reserve your spot on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start before dawn
Plan to leave Ghorepani 45–60 minutes before sunrise to reach Poon Hill and secure the best viewpoint before crowds arrive.
Use trekking poles
Poles ease the long stone stair sections—especially the Ulleri ascent and the final push to Poon Hill—reducing knee strain on descents.
Carry local currency
Teahouses accept cash (Nepalese rupees) for extras like hot showers, snacks and charging devices—ATMs are sparse on the trail.
Pace for altitude
Acclimatize by keeping a relaxed daily pace, sleeping lower when possible and watching for headache, nausea or dizziness.
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction on uneven stone steps and muddy trails.
Insulated down jacket
Keeps you warm during pre-dawn summit hikes and cold nights at higher sleeping elevations.
winter
Trekking poles
Reduce knee load on long descents and help balance on slippery steps.
Headlamp with extra batteries
Essential for early-morning departures and navigating lodges before sunrise.