The Poon Hill Trek via Birethanti is a rewarding nine-day Himalayan journey that blends breathtaking mountain scenery, authentic village life, and a gradual trekking experience in Nepal's famous Annapurna region. Designed for trekkers seeking a comfortable yet unforgettable adventure, this itinerary begins with your arrival in Kathmandu and follows the classic trail from Birethanti to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk.
Although vehicles can now reach higher points along the route, Manikang Nepal Treks begins the walk from Birethanti to preserve the traditional trekking experience. Starting from the lower elevation allows trekkers to gain altitude naturally while enjoying peaceful riverside paths, terraced farmland, charming villages, and the historic stone staircases that have welcomed trekkers for decades.
The trail passes through Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Tadapani before descending to Ghandruk. A pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) rewards you with one of Nepal's most spectacular sunrises, where the first golden light illuminates the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Throughout the journey, comfortable tea houses, warm local hospitality, and ever-changing landscapes make every day memorable.
Ending the trek in Ghandruk offers the opportunity to experience the rich Gurung culture before returning to Pokhara. This itinerary is ideal for beginners, families, couples, and anyone looking for a short Himalayan trek without reaching extreme altitude.
Maximum Altitude: 3,210 m (Poon Hill)
Trip Duration: 9Days
Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
Experience the classic Poon Hill trekking route, beginning from Birethanti for a gradual and enjoyable ascent.
Watch an unforgettable sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m) with sweeping views across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges.
Trek through traditional Magar and Gurung villages, where local culture and mountain hospitality remain an important part of everyday life.
Walk beneath lush rhododendron and oak forests that burst into vibrant colors during the spring season.
Climb the historic stone staircases to Ulleri and enjoy ever-changing landscapes along the trail.
Spend peaceful nights in locally operated tea houses and experience authentic Himalayan hospitality.
Discover the scenic ridge-top settlement of Ghorepani and the tranquil forest trails leading to Tadapani.
Visit the picturesque Gurung village of Ghandruk, famous for its traditional stone houses, rich culture, and stunning mountain setting.
Capture spectacular photographs of snow-capped peaks, green hills, waterfalls, and terraced fields throughout the journey.
Enjoy a well-paced itinerary that combines nature, culture, mountain scenery, and comfortable trekking without reaching extreme altitude.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m) – Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in
Day 2Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 m)
Day 3Day 3: Drive to Birethanti and Trek to Ulleri (2,050 m)
Day 4Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874 m)
Day 5Sunrise Hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) – Trek to Tadapani (2,630 m)
Day 6Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940 m)
Day 7Drive from Ghandruk to Pokhara – Leisure Day in Pokhara
Day 8Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu – Explore the Capital City
Day 9Final Departure
What’s Included
- Airport pick-up and final departure transfer by private vehicle.
- Two nights' accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Two nights' accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- Domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (as per itinerary).
- Private transfer from Pokhara to Birethanti.
- Private transfer from Ghandruk to Pokhara.
- Four nights' teahouse accommodation during the trek.
- Breakfast throughout the trip.
- Lunch and dinner during the trekking days.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- TIMS Card (if required under the current trekking regulations).
- Experienced, government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide.
- Guide's salary, meals, accommodation, transportation, insurance, and all government taxes.
- First aid kit carried by the trekking guide.
- All applicable government taxes and company service charges.
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fees.
- Travel insurance (mandatory and recommended to cover emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation).
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (unless otherwise specified).
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
- Personal expenses such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, laundry, snacks, chocolates, bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, tea, coffee, and desserts.
- Tips for the trekking guide, driver, and support staff (tips are appreciated but not mandatory).
- Optional sightseeing tours, entrance fees, and adventure activities in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Any additional accommodation, meals, or transportation required due to flight delays, road blockages, adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, or any circumstances beyond our control.
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the Cost Includes section.
