Poon Hill Sunrise: A Practical Guide to the Ghorepani–Ghandruk Circuit
Short, scenic, and endlessly rewarding, the Poon Hill trek serves up Himalayan sunrises without extreme altitude or logistics. Here’s how the Ghorepani–Ghandruk Circuit blends big-mountain views, Gurung culture, and trail pragmatics into a perfect 4–6 day adventure.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start pre-dawn for Poon Hill
Leave Ghorepani 60–75 minutes before sunrise to reach the viewpoint in time and avoid the heaviest crowds.
Tame Ulleri’s stair climb
Take short, regular breaks and keep a steady cadence on the 3,300 steps; trekking poles ease knees on both the ascent and descent.
Carry cash in small bills
Teahouses rarely accept cards; bring enough NPR for meals, showers, charging, and tips beyond your package inclusions.
Prepare for fast weather shifts
Pack quick layers and a reliable rain shell—clouds can build by late morning even in peak season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Detour to Deurali Pass for a quieter ridge view between Ghorepani and Tadapani
- •Gurung Museum in Ghandruk for insight into village life and Gurkha history
Wildlife
- •Himalayan monal (danphe) in rhododendron forest
- •Gray langur monkeys along the lower forested sections
Conservation Note
Pack out all trash, refill water instead of buying plastic bottles, and stick to established paths to limit erosion. Teahouses often heat with limited fuel—conserve hot water and power where possible.
Ghandruk is a historic Gurung settlement with strong Gurkha military ties. The area falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (est. 1986), Nepal’s first and largest conservation area.
Photographer's Notes
- • Poon Hill viewpoint and tower
- • Rhododendron corridor near Deurali
- • Stone steps above Ulleri with valley backdrop
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking boots (broken-in)Essential
Stone steps and occasional mud demand ankle support and reliable traction.
Trekking poles
Helpful for long stair sections and reducing knee strain on steep descents.
Lightweight rain shellEssential
Monsoon showers and surprise squalls roll in quickly; a packable shell keeps you moving.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Crucial for the pre-dawn Poon Hill ascent and evening teahouse walks.
Common Questions
When is the best time to trek Poon Hill?
October–November and March–April offer the clearest views and comfortable temperatures. Winter has fewer crowds but colder nights; summer monsoon is lush but wet and leech-prone.
How hard is the trek?
It’s considered moderate. The Ulleri staircase and the Tikhedhunga–Ghorepani ascent are the toughest sections, but daily distances are manageable with plenty of teahouses for breaks.
Do I need permits?
Yes. You’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card; most outfitters arrange these before departure.
Will I get altitude sickness?
The high point is 3,210 m, where most trekkers feel fine. Hydrate, pace yourself, and rest if you experience mild symptoms like headaches.
Is water safe to drink?
Use boiled water from teahouses or treat tap water with purification tablets or a filter. Refill rather than buy single-use bottles to reduce waste.
Are ATMs or card payments available on the route?
No. Withdraw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu; teahouses accept cash only, and power or Wi‑Fi can be intermittent.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–6 days on trail
Location
Ghorepani, Gandaki Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable hiking 5–7 hours per day with up to 1,200 m of elevation gain; stairs and uneven stone require balance and leg endurance.
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