Annapurna Base Camp Trek in 2025: A First-Timer’s Complete Guide
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek ranks among Nepal’s most achievable high-altitude adventures. At 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), it sits lower than Everest Base Camp’s demanding 5,364...
Private Nepal, Tibet & Bhutan journeys

A Perfect Short Himalayan Escape for Beginners and Busy Travelers
Trip overview
Journey overview
A quick read on the route, the comfort level, the pricing rhythm, and the details most travelers want before they get in touch.
In short
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (6 days) is a short, easy , beginner-friendly, low-altitude, year-round Annapurna-region trek in Nepal. It offers breathtaking Himalayan sunrises, panoramic mountain vistas, spectacular landscapes and authentic cultural encounters in traditional mountain villages. This trek starts with your arrival in Kathmandu and ends with your departure from Kathmandu and is the best Annapurna trek for student groups, groups with children and elderly and time-bound travelers.
Quick route highlights
Short, practical, and easy to scan before you dive into the longer trip description.
Highlight
Experience Poon Hill's iconic sunrise painting Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges in golden Himalayan light.
Stand before two of the Earth's top 10 highest peaks- Dhaulagiri (8,167m)and Annapurna I (8,091m)
Connect with authentic Magar (ethnic group) communities and experience genuine Himalayan hospitality.
Trek through breathtaking landscapes and enjoy magnificent Himalayan vistas on a beginner-friendly, short and easy route.
Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek, an Annapurna region trek, is inarguably one of the best short treks in Nepal. No high altitude, no exhausting hikes- just breathtaking scenery and some of the best views you’ll ever see in your lifetime.
Also widely known as Poon Hill Sunrise Trek, this trek takes you to the altitude of 3,210 meters offering one of the grandest panoramas of mountains in the world. This panorama, along with the 7th (Dhaulagiri 8,167m) and the 10th (Annapurna I 8,091m) highest mountains in the world, includes other Himalayan giants such as Tukuche, Thapa Peak, Nilgiri-South, Central and North, Tilicho Peak, Patal Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Baraha Shikhar Chuli, Singu Chuli, Tharpu Chuli, Tare Kang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Gandarwa Chuli, Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, Annapurna IV, Annapurna II as well as Lamjung Himal.
But there’s more! Beyond the breathtaking mountain views, a journey through Ulleri and Ghorepani, the two major settlements en route, invite trekkers to immerse in the authentic lifestyle, traditions and vibrant heritage of the Magar (ethnic group in Nepal) community in Nepal, making it an equally perfect trek for culture enthusiasts. Moreover, the beauty of the landscapes embracing the trail is on another level.
Additionally, The trail is well-maintained, featuring smooth and gradual ascents and descents. The walking hour each day is relatively short and requires minimal physical effort. Technical climbing skills or climbing equipment are not required for this trek. Comfortable teahouses and lodges are available for relaxing stays and satisfying meals. Furthermore, it's a low-altitude trek in Nepal, therefore, the risk of altitude sickness is also minimal to none.
This Poon Hill trek is an easy trek in Nepal as the trekking part is completed in just two days (Pokhara-Poon Hill-Pokhara). To start the trek, you will drive from Pokhara to Ulleri (4hrs). From Ulleri, you will trek to Ghorepani (3-4hrs) and spend a night there. The following morning, you will hike (45min-1hr)to the sunrise viewpoint of Poon Hill to witness one of the most stunning mountain sunrise views. After enjoying the morning hike and taking in the view, you will return to Ghorepani (30min)for breakfast, which will be followed by a hike back down to Ulleri and a drive to Pokhara.
However, Amigo Treks and Expedition’s Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (6 days) is an all inclusive package, therefore, the itinerary starts with your arrival in Kathmandu and ends with your final departure from the same city. You will spend two nights in Kathmandu, two nights in Pokhara and one night in the Annapurna region - a perfect Himalayan vacation for people short on time. This less-than-a-week-long holiday in Nepal beautifully combines the natural charm of Pokhara and the spectacular Ghorepani-Poon Hill trekking route in the Annapurna region.
Enhance your experience by:
Adding one-day UNESCO World Heritage Site tour in Kathmandu
White water rafting in Trisuli River on the way to Pokhara
Moreover, if you are looking to add a bit more trekking days to the trip without gaining more elevation, our 8 days Ghorepani Poon Hill with Ghandruk Trek will be the best alternative trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara (200kms)
Day 03: Drive to Ulleri (1960m/6430ft),(4hrs) and trek to Ghorepani (2860m/9,383ft),(7km),(4hrs)
Day 04: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,531ft) and trek to Ulleri (1960m/6430ft),(2-3hrs) and drive to Pokhara
Day 05: Drive to Kathmandu (200kms)
Day 06: Departure day
Click now to reserve your 6-day Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trek with a carefully crafted itinerary, designed for comfort, safety and unforgettable scenery.
Why travelers plan with Amigo
All-inclusive & Hassle-Free- We take care of transportation, accommodation, permits and logistics so you can focus on the experience.
Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Costs - What you see is what you pay, with excellent value for money.
Handpicked Comfortable Accommodations - Relax in carefully selected accommodations offering comfort, hospitality and delicious and quality meal.
Private Transportation Included, With Flexible Local Transportation Option for Lower-Cost Travel -We include private transportation for comfort while offering local transportation options for greater affordability.
Experienced & Licensed Guides - Trek confidently with knowledgeable local guides who prioritize your safety and enrich your journey.
Private Trip at No Extra Cost - Make it exclusively yours with a complimentary private trip upgrade.
Your Trip, Your Way - Your dream trip starts with your ideas - share your travel preferences, and we will create a package that fits you perfectly.
Open each day to see the route notes, overnight rhythm, altitude cues, and the small details that help you understand how the journey actually flows.
Day details
Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, a company representative will meet and greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel booked for you in Kathmandu. This transfer will be in a private vehicle (car/jeep/minivan/bus- depending on the group size).
FAQ: My flight is scheduled to arrive early in the morning/late at night. Will the pick up service still be provided?
Ans: Yes, the airport pick up service will be provided any time your flight is scheduled to arrive in Nepal.
FAQ: What is a standard hotel check in time?
Ans: The standard hotel check in time in Nepal is 2:00 PM.
Upon reaching the hotel, this representative will also help you with hotel check in formalities.
After checking into the hotel room, take rest, freshen up (if needed) and get ready for the quick meeting that will be conducted at the hotel lobby 1-2 hours after you’ve checked into your hotel. In the meeting you will be introduced to your guide, your equipment will be checked and a short briefing regarding the upcoming trip will be given by one of the company representatives. The time after the meeting can be spent at leisure.
If your flight is delayed, scheduled to arrive late in the afternoon, evening or even at night, the meeting will be held the following morning, before leaving Kathmandu for Pokhara.
Pro Tip
A morning or early afternoon arrival in Kathmandu can make a big difference. It gives you extra time to shake off jet lag, sort out any missing equipment, exchange currency and adjust to the new surroundings before your adventure begins.
Day details
You will start your day with a hearty morning spread (buffet breakfast) at the hotel in Kathmandu. You will then start your journey to Pokhara, in a private vehicle (car/jeep/minivan/bus-depending on group size).
Pokhara, a blissful lake valley, is located 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu. The drive will be on the Prithvi Highway.
FAQ: How long is the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
ANS: Well, if the road conditions are good and not affected by construction work, highway traffic jams or natural disasters, the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara is approximately 6-7 hours.
It’s a very scenic drive. The highway first runs along the Trisuli River and then the Marsyangdi River - two of the seven major tributaries of the Gandaki River. The view of the terraced farms, hamlets, green hills, mountains- all make the drive very interesting. Since the vehicle is private, you can stop for lunch, a quick snack and short toilet breaks, if and when needed.
Upon reaching Pokhara, you will check into the pre-booked hotel for you in Pokhara. Spend the afternoon/evening at leisure.
Pro Tip
Spend the evening strolling around the Phewa Lake area, enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and don’t miss the beautiful Lakeside Aarati ceremony.
Insider Tip
Break up the long drive to Pokhara with 3–4 hours of thrilling white-water rafting on the Trishuli River for an extra dose of adventure.
Day details
Your Ghorepani trek itinerary begins today. Enjoy an indulgent morning feast (breakfast) at the hotel in Pokhara and get your bags (with all essentials) ready for this short trek in Nepal.
FAQ: Do I need to carry my passport?
Ans: Yes, at the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) office in Birethanti and at the permit check point in Ghorepani, you will be required to present your original passport.
After breakfast at the hotel in Pokhara, your guide will pick you up from the hotel and together you will drive to the trail head of this short Annapurna trek. The trailhead of the trek is Ulleri, therefore, from Pokhara, you will drive to Ulleri. It’s a pleasant drive on Pokhara-Baglung till Nayapul. From Nayapul, leaving the highway you will drive to Birethanti. You will stop for some time here for conversation area entrance formalities, which your guide will take care of. After the formalities, you will continue to drive to Ulleri, a very beautiful Magar Village that also greets you with very mesmerizing views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. This drive takes approximately 4 hours.
In Ulleri, if you are hungry, you will have your lunch. If not, you will start your trek to Ghorepani. Located roughly 7 kilometers north-west of Ulleri, the hike to Ghorepani takes about 4 hours. The hike is mostly a gentle ascent through the forest of Rhododendron (blooms in spring-March to May) and Oak. Continue through the forest, walking past Banthanti and Nangge Thanti, you will soon reach Ghorepani.
Upon reaching Ghorepani, you will check into the lodge for dinner and comfortable overnight stay. You can spend the evening at leisure. To make the most out of the day, spend the evening exploring the settlement of Ghorepani.
Pro Tip
Carry a pair of lightweight sandals or flip-flops in an outer pocket. After a long uphill day, being able to immediately take off your trekking boots at the teahouse feels far better than most first-time trekkers expect, and many wish they had packed them.
Day details
The Poon Hill sunrise trek is one of the best ways to experience breathtaking mountain sunrise views in the world. The viewpoint of the Poon Hill offers a mesmerizing panorama of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range. These ranges, along with two of the top ten highest mountains in the world, Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri, also include strikingly beautiful other Himalayan giants, such as Tukuche, Thapa Peak, Nilgiri-South, Central and North, Tilicho Peak, Patal Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Baraha Shikhar Chuli, Singu Chuli, Tharpu Chuli, Tare Kang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Gandarwa Chuli, Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, Annapurna IV, Annapurna II as well as Lamjung Himal. Where else in the world can you find a trek that is this easy, short, beginner-friendly and low altitude, yet offers a sunrise view as magnificent as this particular Annapurna region trek?
From Ghorepani, the Poon Hill trek takes roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour (depending on your pace). Therefore, you will start this trek one hour before sunrise to reach on time for sunrise. This also implies that it will still be dark outside and you will trek wearing a headlamp. It's a moderate hike- mostly stone steps with steady climb. The top greets you with mesmerizing panoramic sunrise views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. Take your time to take in the views and photos. Once you are ready, you will hike back down to Ghorepani for breakfast.
After breakfast at the lodge in Ghorepani, you will start your return journey. Retracing the steps, you will hike down to Ulleri through the forest of rhododendron. This hike, which is mostly downhill, takes around 2-3 hours (depending on your pace). After lunch in Ulleri you will drive back to Pokhara. In Pokhara, we will drop you back to your hotel. Spend the rest of the afternoon/evening at leisure.
Highlights
Sunrise from Poon Hill with stunning views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massif ranges
View of two Himalayan giants (Dhaulagiri and Annapurna 1) that stand among the world's ten highest summits.
Pro Tip
Start the hike to Poon Hill at least an hour before sunrise to secure the best viewpoint and watch the mountains gradually light up in golden colors. Stay a little longer after sunrise—the changing light on the mountains is just as magical.
Insider Tip
Carry a warm layer, gloves and headlamps for the early morning hike to Poon Hill — it can feel surprisingly dark and cold before sunrise.
Day details
Breakfast at the hotel and you will start your return journey to Kathmandu in a private vehicle (car/jeep/minivan/bus- depending on your group size).
FAQ: Do solo travelers also get a private vehicle for this part of the journey?
Ans: Not included in the package, but can be arranged at an additional cost. The transportation for solo traveler is luxury tourist bus.
FAQ: Is there an option to fly back to Kathmandu?
Ans: Yes, there is an option to fly back to Kathmandu. Regular domestic flights operate from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu, offering quick and comfortable way to return after the trek. This flight can also be arranged at an additional cost.
You will reach Kathmandu in about 6-7 hours provided that the road is in a good condition and not affected by highway traffic. In Kathmandu, you will check into the hotel and in the evening, one of the company representatives will meet you for farewell dinner and feedback. Spend the time after dinner at leisure.
Pro Tip
If you choose the flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, book an early morning departure for the clearest Himalayan views from the window and a full day in Kathmandu to explore it's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Insider Tip
If you choose to fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu, grab a window seat on the left side of the plane for the best chance of stunning Himalayan views.
Day details
Breakfast at the hotel and as per your airport reporting time, you will be transferred to the airport to help you catch your onward flight.
FAQ: What is the recommended airport reporting time?
Ans: The recommended airport reporting time is 3 hours before your scheduled flight departure.
FAQ: Which airport should I use for departure?
Ans: You should use the international terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport for departure.
FAQ: Will the airport transfer service still be provided if my flight is scheduled to leave early in the morning or late at night?
Ans: Yes, transfers are available for all flight timings.
Pro Tip
Leave early to avoid traffic delays and reduce last minute stress at the airport, keep essential documents and valuables in your hand luggage for quick access during checks, keep some local currency handy for any last-minute airport expenses and wear comfortable, easy-to-remove footwear to make security screening smoother.
Insider Tip
Keep a printed copy of your visa and flight details even if you have digital versions—airport staff sometimes request it.
Group pricing tiers
Per-person rates adjust automatically with your party size. Member discounts apply where available.
1 traveler
US$ 825
per person2-4 travelers
US$ 748
per personSingle room supplement
Optional private room for one traveler.
+ US$ 200
Traveler suitability
This guided trek in Nepal is planned across 6 Days around route flow, support logistics, traveler comfort, and realistic operating conditions. The pace protects acclimatization, daily effort, and weather flexibility.
We review Nepal routes around altitude or road rhythm, daily effort, guide support, permit timing, accommodation flow, and traveler comfort before confirming the final version.
Annapurna Region Trek planning resources
Use these annapurna region trek guides for route comparison and practical planning before you finalize dates or send an inquiry.
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek ranks among Nepal’s most achievable high-altitude adventures. At 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), it sits lower than Everest Base Camp’s demanding 5,364...
Annapurna Base Camp offers a shorter approach than many classic Nepal treks. Compare the available route lengths, seasonal conditions, and lodge comfort before booking.
The Annapurna Circuit varies by start point, road use, side trips, and accommodation level. Check how many days the route allows before crossing Thorong La.
Pick up where you left off with your recently visited trips.
Loading your recently viewed trips…