Annapurna Ghorepani Trek is an easy and short budget trek that offers peek into the authentic local cultures and spectacular 50km Annapurna massif, north of the lake city Pokhara. 4 days trekking to Annapurna Ghorepani is suitable for any trekkers with reasonable fitness level including children and elderly people. As the highest point of the trek is 3,210m at Poon Hill, there is no risk of altitude threat.
Also known as short Poon Hill Trek, this trek starts after 1 and half hours switchback drive to Nayapul from Pokhara. 4 days Annapurna Ghorepani Trekking itinerary goes through the circular route and walk across the mix of terraced farmlands, rhododendron, oak and bamboo forests. Annapurna Ghorepani Hiking Trial offers incredible contrast to various ecosystem and landscapes. This is an exotic trek amidst of pristine nature and considered as one of the best trekking route in Nepal. There are many comfortable guesthouses in all the village scattered along the trail. Hindu Brahman and Chhetri, Buddhist farmers, Magars and Gurungs are the major inhabitants of the region. The unique culture and distinctive architecture of these community and experience of their warm hospitality adds more charm to the trek.
Ghorepani village falls inside the territory of Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) and offers plethora of lodges and guest houses that provides comfortable shelter and meals to mountain trekkers. It is famous overnight spot for travelers seeking to make pre-dawn hike to the top of nearby Poon Hill (3210m/10531ft) ridge. Ghorepani used to be the major resting spot for ancient traders. They found water for their horses in the village and thus the village got the name Ghore (Horse) Pani (Water). Ghorepani trek takes you to the linkage point of several village including Annapurna Base Camp.
A pre-dawn hike to Poonhill (one of most visited physical landmark in Nepal) is the key highlight of the trek. The grassy summit of Poon Hill (3210m/10530ft) displays the superb view of sunrise and magnificent Himalayan range including Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (fishtail peak) and Manaslu.
Our trail then follows the east route, following the ridges to Tadapani with great views of snowy peaks. En route, we get opportunity to encounter local culture and lifestyle. We trek downhill to Ghandruk, a large stone-roofed settlement dotted with ancient monasteries and museum and continue for an hour to reach Ghandruk Phedi. Then, we join an off-road drive following the Modi Khola (River) that flows from the glacier of Annapurna Sanctuary to Pokhara (the concluding point of trek).
Annapurna Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is an easy trek perfect for nature and culture enthusiasts who have ability to walk for 4-5 hours a day with light day-pack. It is an introductory trek for beginners who wants to venture Annapurna Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek. It is possible to conduct the trip to Annapurna Ghorepani throughout the year however spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best time of the year for this trip.