Discover the beauty of the Annapurna region on a 5-day trek.
This moderate trek offers stunning mountain views, cultural immersion, and a rewarding outdoor experience. Starting from Pokhara, you'll ascend gradually through charming villages, lush forests, and terraced fields. The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
You'll also explore the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk, immersing yourself in local culture and traditions. The trek is designed to be accessible to most fitness levels, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Highlights of the Trips
Your trek begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From there, you'll start your hike along the beautiful banks of the Modi Khola river. The first stop is Birethanti (1015m), a lively village with shops and teahouses.
Continuing on, the trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola river, ascending steeply through forest and terraced paddy fields. You'll then climb gradually up the valley to Hille (1495m), before reaching your destination for the day, Tikhedhunga(1570m).
This day’s trek is short and relatively easy, designed to help you get accustomed to trekking in Nepal. It’s a great start for beginners, offering a mix of stunning natural beauty and a chance to adjust to the altitude and terrain.
Perfect for those on a gap year in Nepal, this trek gives you a taste of Nepal's trekking culture and scenic landscapes.
Today's trek is a bit longer, taking around 6 hours, with a challenging climb. You'll start with a steep ascent up stone stepsto reach Ulleri (2070m), a large Magar village. After Ulleri, the trail becomes gentler as it continues through lush forests of oak and rhododendrons, heading towards Banthanti (2250m).
Next, you'll pass through Nangethanti (2460m) before finally reaching Ghorepani (2840m). Ghorepani is a popular stop for trekkers and offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri mountains. It's also a great place to rest and stock up on supplies like drinking water.
This trek is ideal for those on a gap year in Nepal, offering a mix of physical challenge and rewarding natural beauty. The stunning landscapes and peaceful villages along the way make it a memorable adventure.
Today’s trek takes you to Poon Hill (3210m/10,528ft), one of the world’s best viewpoints. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of some of the tallest peaks in the world, including Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna (8091m). To catch the magical sunrise, you'll wake up early, around 4 am, and hike up to Poon Hill.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Fish Tail (6993m), Tukuche Peak (6920m), Nilgiri (6940m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Annapurna South (7219m), and the mighty Dhaulagiri (8167m). After soaking in the views, you’ll head back to Ghorepani for breakfast before starting the trek to Tadapani (3210m).
Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful rhododendron forests in full bloom, especially near Deurali Pass (3160m). The trail ascends gently until you reach Tadapani, a peaceful spot surrounded by the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
This trek is perfect for those on a gap year in Nepal, offering breathtaking mountain views, serene landscapes, and a chance to experience Nepal’s famous rhododendron forests. It's a beautiful and rewarding adventure!
Today's trek will take you on a beautiful journey from Tadapani to Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village that offers some of the best mountain views in Nepal. The trail begins with a gentle descent through lush subtropical jungles, winding through vibrant rhododendron and pine forests. From Tadapani, you’ll also catch your first glimpses of the mighty Himalayas (2710m/8888ft), a preview of the stunning landscapes ahead.
As you continue, the trail steeply drops, crossing small streams, and slowly leads you to Ghandruk, which is about a 5-hour walk. Along the way, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Annapurna South, the sacred Machhapuchhre(Fishtail), and other towering peaks that rise majestically above the valley. These panoramic vistas will fill you with awe and wonder.
At Ghandruk (1940m), the second-largest Gurung village in Nepal, you’ll experience a unique blend of culture and nature. The village, nestled above the Modi River, is a maze of closely-knit slate-roofed houses, surrounded by terraced fields that create a picturesque setting. You can explore the local handicraft factory at the top of the village, where skilled artisans create beautiful crafts, offering a glimpse into the traditions of the Gurung people.
The views of Annapurna South from Ghandruk are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of the mountains. This trek is not just a physical journey, but an emotional one as you connect with both the natural beauty and the rich culture of the area. It’s a trek that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Nepal’s stunning landscapes and welcoming people.
Your trek concludes with a descent from Ghandruk to Nayapul and a drive back to the vibrant city of Pokhara. The trail begins with a steep descent, passing through small villages, beautiful terraced paddy fields, and lush forests. As you continue, you'll pass through Dhampus and finally reach Phedi, where the trek ends.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Himalayas that you may have missed on the way up, including Machhapuchhre (the iconic Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna III. The trek takes about 5 hours, offering the perfect final views of the mountains.
Once you reach Nayapul, you’ll drive back to Pokhara, the peaceful lakeside city where your adventure began. You can relax, reflect on your trek, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Phewa Lake as you celebrate completing your Himalayan journey.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is often described as the perfect introduction to Nepal’s Himalayas. It’s a trek that offers some of the most stunning mountain views without the demanding physical effort of higher-altitude treks like the Annapurna Circuit. Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft) provides a magical sunrise over the snow-capped peaks, especially Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail).
It’s the kind of trek where every day feels like an adventure, whether you’re winding through vibrant rhododendron forests or enjoying a peaceful moment at one of the mountain teahouses. There’s something deeply peaceful about walking through villages that seem untouched by time, where the smiles of the locals remind you that the journey is as important as the destination.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is usually 5-7 days long. It’s a wonderful option if you’re looking for an accessible trek that doesn’t compromise on beauty. The trek is long enough to give you a genuine taste of the Himalayas without being too strenuous. Every morning, you’ll wake up to stunning mountain vistas, and every evening, you’ll retreat to cozy teahouses where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered moderate and is ideal for trekkers of all levels. The highest point (Poon Hill) is at 3,210 meters—high enough to give you the feeling of being on top of the world, but low enough that altitude sickness is less of a concern.
The terrain can be demanding, with steep ascents and descents, but the trail is manageable for those in good health. The trek is not about pushing your limits—it’s about connecting with nature, breathing in the mountain air, and finding moments of peace amidst the rugged landscape.
Absolutely! The sunrise from Poon Hill is one of the most iconic experiences of the trek. Waking up early and walking in the dark to reach the viewpoint is an adventure in itself. As the sun rises over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare (Fishtail) peaks, you’ll be filled with awe. The golden light on the snow-capped mountains will take your breath away, and in that moment, you’ll understand why trekking in the Himalayas feels so special.
The accommodation is typically in teahouses, which are simple but comfortable. You’ll find warmth, home-cooked meals, and a sense of camaraderie with fellow trekkers. The villages along the route are welcoming, and the people are kind. Even after a long day of trekking, you’ll feel at home in these small mountain lodges, where you can sit by the fire, share stories, and enjoy a cup of masala chai.
From Pokhara, you’ll drive to Nayapul, and from there, begin your trek. The drive is only 1-2 hours, but it’s the start of an unforgettable journey. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the mountains, the smells of the forests, and the smiles of the local people. The path to Ghorepani feels like a gentle invitation to slow down, take it all in, and appreciate the simple joys of life.
Altitude sickness is always a concern at any altitude above 2,500 meters, but the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is relatively low risk. The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters—high enough to feel the effects of the altitude but not too high to cause major concerns. If you take things slowly and listen to your body, you’ll be just fine.
Yes, travel insurance is essential. Accidents or illnesses can happen, and it's always better to be prepared. Insurance that covers emergency evacuation, medical costs, and high-altitude trekking is highly recommended for your peace of mind.
Namaste! Dear one This trip has been the dream that I have been planning for a long time. I always wanted to contribute from the professional perspective while also immerging myself in the culture and nature of this unique region. Since childhood my goal has been to train as a doctor to help others. As I progressed through my studies my desire to heal the sick without expecting anything in turn, along with a deeper understanding of society and needs. The love for nature is a universal thing human instinct, and I am no exception. Visiting the mountains of Nepal, one of the world's most inspiring place. Amond the tallest peak the landscapes seem to touch the soul of those who experience this. In conclusion, this journey has been truly unique term. Every place in the world offers beautiful memories but in Nepal, I discovered a different kind of mystery. Its culture so different from my own religion and society left me with lots of memories.
Namaste! I am very grateful and I felt so lucky to for living this experience. I have known Nepal really. your culture, your food your way of living and it’s been only two weeks a very short period but I will come back for sure. And I must say that everybody has treated me so kindly, so good, specially of course in this house and hospital. Thanks, a lot to Sushi, Prakash, Shreejaya (and sorry if I had not written your names properly..) and of course to Didi who has always been so kind and generous. Thank you so much.
Namaste! My departure is approaching only a few hours left to spend in Nepal and what can I say about this experience! When I decided this internship in Nepal, I was both excited and stressed by the unknown of a country more than 7000 km from home. But this stress quickly dissipated when I arrived in Nepal and met the wonderful people who are the vol Nepal volunteers. During my 12 week placement I had an incredible experience I met some lovely people and discovered another culture completely different from my own. Whether it was the humain experience the project in Rolpa and the cultural discovery I can say without a doubt that it was the least thing of my life! For all days spent by your side I would like to thank all the volunteers from vol Nepal and Himalayan circuit as well as Didi for welcoming me and guiding us through the period.
Namaste! I would like to thank the entire VolNepal team for these incredible moments that I was able to spend in Nepal, Thanks to you. Whether in Kathmandu as in Rolpa district you embraced me as if I were one of your own, and that really touched me. I leave with a head full of memories and shared moments that will remain engraved for a long time. I am proud of the project we carried out for the Rolpa district school. Knowing that what we have put in place will be useful to children makes me really happy. It’s a useful and complete project, and I am happy to have contributed to it. Thank you again for your support your smiles and everything you have taught me. I already and everything you have taught me. I already know that I will return to Nepal one day, and it will be a great celebration thanks to you!
Namaste My 5-week internship went by extremely quickly. This tip was my first experience being so far from home and I won’t forget it. First of all, upon my arrival the country completely took me out of my French comfort zone. The local culture, landscape, and places to explore are incredible and I wish I could have stayed longer to see everything. The monastery project was cool and different from my usual concrete project of my job at France. The team on site is amazing, guiding us and always ready to help us without request. Also thank you for organizing the two trip to Chitwan and Pokhara which will be unforgettable. I also want to thanks Didi for all the delicious meals she prepared for us and for her kindness. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would do it without hesitation. Thank you for everything or I would rather say in Nepalese Dhanyabaad.
Namaste! Its been already nearly 2 months since I arrived here in Nepal and finally the time has come to day goodbye. The first 3 weeks of volunteering in the monastery were amazing the joy I felt like every day is something I had never experienced in my life. I would like to think Sushil, Nisha, and specially Didi for taking care of me and making my time in the house like I was at home. Also, I am so grateful to have been able to meet the other volunteers and all the good moments we were able to share together. After that the treks I did were a childhood dream came true. Thank you for all your work organizing everything and for bring always available for any question I might have, you really made me have the greatest time of mt life up there in the mountains. Dhanyabaad!
Namaste! During these 12 weeks of internship, I had the most enriching experience of my life. Whether in terms of meeting new people, working, visiting or traveling Nepal exceed all my exceptions. I will never forget it! At the very beginning, this internship was challenging for me because it took me out of my comfort zone and stripped away all my familiar reference point. Thanks to the volunteer and the staff, I was able to overcome this and make the most of my Nepalese experience perfect. I would like to sincerely thank Didi. For welcoming us and feeding is with great kindness during this entire period. I also want to thank VolNepal and GapYearNepal for the warm welcome the exchange we had and the trips they proposed. Dhanyabaad!
Namaste! I can only say thank you, thank you for your time, the experience and thank you for this opportunity. Nepal has been one of the best things we have ever had in our life. I have met wonderful people I have been able to learn and participate in the culture of here and above all I have been able to be part of a wonderful family which has treated me like one more daughter. I will never forget this adventure. Nepal its people and the people and the family I have lived with will be always be in my heart and I will always be grateful to them.
After more than 15 days in this country and this house specifically, we can only say thank you. At first it was difficult for us, because we were separated from our parents by so many kilometers and also because of the culture shock. But as we started volunteering, we realized that we were having the opportunity to live a wonderful experience. Thank you first of all to the most family for their welcoming, love and flexibility with us. Also thank the agency that helped us from Spain, you social and our supporters here in Nepal, sui and Nisha. Finally, we would like to thank the school and the hospital that have made it easier for us to stay here and have let us be part of their projects. Muchos gracias!
Namaste! These past three weeks have been a blast. This experience has been a great one and we will not forget this! A special thanks to Didi for providing us with good food every day, to Nisha for the traditional dresses, and to dual for the company the first three days of volunteering. We want to say the biggest thanks to the French guys, with whom we have shared this experience for always making us feel safe and comfortable! Thank you!