Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

duration 9 days
from usd 550
difficulty Moderate
best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 10,535 feet at Poon Hill

trip overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a 9-day journey through Nepal’s Annapurna region, rated as medium difficulty. From Poon Hill (10,535 feet), you’ll witness spectacular sunrise views of the Annapurna massif and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Poon Hill is located in Ghorepani village. The trek combines mountain views with cultural experiences as you pass through traditional villages and pristine forests.

Best experienced during autumn (September-December) or spring (March-May) when weather conditions are optimal for clear mountain views.

Ideal for families, first-time trekkers, and those with limited time who want to experience the Himalayas without extreme altitude challenges.

Key Highlights

Sunrise Mountain Panorama: 360-degree views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre peaks from Poon Hill

Rhododendron Forests: Trek through Nepal’s largest rhododendron forest, especially beautiful during spring blooms

Traditional Villages: Experience authentic Gurung and Magar culture in mountain settlements

Moderate Difficulty: Maximum altitude of 3,210m with 4-6 hours of daily hiking, suitable for reasonably fit beginners

Accessible Adventure: Experience the Himalayas in just 9 days with convenient access from Pokhara

Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in teahouses throughout the trek with hot meals and basic amenities

Detailed itinerary

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

We will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (4,600 feet) and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel on your own. In the evening, we’ll hold a pre-trip meeting in the hotel lobby where you’ll meet your guide, review the trek itinerary in detail, discuss gear requirements, and have the opportunity to ask any questions about the journey ahead.

Distance: Airport to hotel transfer | Time: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Points of Interest:
- Thamel District: Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub with numerous shops selling trekking gear, souvenirs, and local crafts
- Durbar Marg: Upscale shopping street near many hotels, featuring both international and local brands
- Garden of Dreams: A peaceful neoclassical garden offering a serene escape from Kathmandu’s busy streets
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meal: Not included
day 02
Drive to Pokhara (827m/2,713ft)

After breakfast, we’ll depart for Pokhara by tourist bus. The approximately 7-hour journey takes you through picturesque countryside, following the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers. Pokhara, nestled beside Phewa Lake with magnificent mountain views, serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region.

Distance: 200km/124mi | Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Easy (road journey)

Points of Interest:
- Trishuli River: Scenic river views with opportunities to spot rafting expeditions along the way
- Phewa Lake: Pokhara’s centerpiece offering stunning reflections of the Annapurna range on clear days
- Lakeside Area: Vibrant tourist district with restaurants, shops, and beautiful lake views
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m/5,050ft)

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Nayapul (1,070m/3,510ft), the starting point of our trek. From here, we begin our hike through villages and terraced farmland to Tikhedhunga, a small settlement beside the Bhurungdi Khola river.

Distance: 1.5hr drive + 4km/2.5mi trek | Time: 3-4 hours trekking | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Points of Interest:
- Birethanti Village: A charming settlement with ACAP checkpoint where trekking permits are verified
- Modi Khola River: Beautiful river crossing with suspension bridges offering photo opportunities
- Terraced Rice Fields: Traditional agricultural landscapes showcasing local farming methods
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 04
Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m/9,383ft)

Today involves a challenging uphill trek through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. We’ll climb the famous “3,000 steps” to Ulleri village before continuing to Ghorepani, a charming village situated at the base of Poon Hill. It takes five to six hours to trek to Ghorepani village, and you will surely feel the exertion after this day.

Distance: 9km/5.6mi | Time: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

Points of Interest:

Ulleri Stone Staircase: The famous “3,000 steps” offering a challenging but rewarding climb

Nangethanti Rest Stop: A pleasant resting area surrounded by oak and rhododendron forests

Ghorepani Village: Traditional Magar settlement with stunning mountain views and colorful houses
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 05
Poon Hill Sunrise Hike and Trek to Tadapani (2,630m/8,628ft)

We’ll wake up early (around 4:30 AM) to hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,535ft) for a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, we’ll continue our trek to Tadapani through beautiful forests with occasional mountain views. The Himalayas will accompany you (from a distance) throughout the way to Tadapani as we pass through forests and streams.

Distance: 3km/1.9mi (Poon Hill) + 8km/5mi (to Tadapani) | Time: 1.5 hours (Poon Hill) + 4-5 hours (to Tadapani) | Difficulty: Moderate

Points of Interest:
- Poon Hill Summit: One of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints offering panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre peaks
- Deurali Pass: A high point on the trail with excellent mountain views
- Rhododendron Forests: Nepal’s largest rhododendron forest, spectacular when in bloom during spring (March-May)
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 06
Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft)

Today we descend through rhododendron forests and terraced fields to reach Ghandruk, one of the largest and most famous Gurung villages in Nepal. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as we make our way to this cultural hub of the region.

Distance: 9km/5.6mi | Time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate (mostly downhill)

Points of Interest:
- Ghandruk Village: A large traditional Gurung settlement with distinctive stone houses and slate roofs
- Gurung Cultural Museum: Small museum showcasing traditional Gurung artifacts, clothing, and cultural items
- Mountain Views: Spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) from the village
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 07
Trek to Syauli Bazaar (1,180m/3,870ft) and Drive to Pokhara (827m/2,713ft)

After breakfast, we’ll trek downhill to Syauli Bazaar through terraced fields and small villages. From Syauli Bazaar, we’ll drive back to Pokhara. You’ll have the afternoon free to explore Pokhara’s lakeside area, visit the International Mountain Museum, or simply relax after completing your trek.

Distance: 7km/4.3mi trek + 1.5hr drive | Time: 3 hours trekking | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (downhill)

Points of Interest:
- Local Homemade Wine: Opportunity to sample traditional raksi (rice wine) made by villagers in Syauli Bazaar
- International Mountain Museum: Fascinating exhibits on mountaineering history, local cultures, and Himalayan geology
- Lakeside Restaurants: Variety of dining options offering spectacular lake and mountain views
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
day 08
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft) and Farewell Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll return to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours with rest stops along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or additional sightseeing in Kathmandu. In the evening, we’ll gather for a special farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine at an authentic local restaurant. You’ll enjoy a variety of dishes including dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and other local specialties while being entertained by cultural performances showcasing traditional Nepali music and dance.

Distance: 200km/124mi | Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Easy (road journey)

Points of Interest:
- Thamel Shopping: Last chance for souvenir shopping in Kathmandu’s tourist district
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Ancient religious complex atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: Historic royal palace square with intricate woodcarvings and traditional architecture
- Traditional Nepali Farewell Dinner: Cultural experience with authentic cuisine and performances
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 09
Final Departure.

Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploration. We’ll transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Distance: Hotel to airport transfer | Time: 30 minutes
- Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
Teahouse accommodation during the trek on twin-sharing basis
Tourist bus transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara
Private transportation between Pokhara and Nayapul
English speaking, trained and experienced trekking guide
Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
Medical kit (carried by your guide)
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu on the final evening
All government and local taxes

What's Not Included

International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Nepal visa fees
Excess baggage charges
All meals during the trek (teahouses offer various meal options for purchase)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except farewell dinner)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain due to any reason
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, shower, etc.)
Tips for guides and porters

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu and Pokhara:

3-star hotel accommodation included in package
Breakfast typically included at Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels
Upgrade options available to higher-class hotels
Single accommodation readily available in Kathmandu and Pokhara (additional charge)

During the Trek:

Standard teahouse/guesthouse accommodation on twin-sharing basis
Basic standard services with regular toilet facilities
Modest wooden beds with foam pad mattresses, pillows, and blankets
Hot shower facilities usually available (requires extra payment, typically $2-5)
Western-style toilets available in most locations, with squat toilets in some areas
Wi-Fi available at most teahouses for an additional fee ($2-4 per day)
Charging facilities for electronic devices available for a fee ($2-4 per device)
Common dining areas with heating where trekkers gather in the evenings

Accommodation by Location:

Tikhedhunga: Basic teahouses with shared facilities, limited hot water
Ghorepani: Better facilities due to popularity, some teahouses offer rooms with attached bathrooms and more reliable hot water
Tadapani: Standard teahouses with shared facilities, beautiful mountain views
Ghandruk: Some of the best accommodation on the trek, with a few lodges offering private bathrooms and better amenities due to the village’s size and popularity

Upgrade Options:

In Ghorepani and Ghandruk, upgraded rooms with attached bathrooms may be available for an additional charge
Private rooms can sometimes be arranged instead of twin-sharing (subject to availability and extra cost)
Some teahouses offer rooms with better views for a premium

Note: Accommodation quality varies by location, but is generally comfortable by trekking standards. Facilities become more basic in smaller villages. During peak season (October-November and March-April), teahouses can be busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The trek is rated as medium difficulty, suitable for people with basic fitness and some hiking experience. The main challenges include:
- Uphill climbing, particularly the steep ascent to Ulleri and Ghorepani
- Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise
- Long daily hiking hours (4-6 hours on average)
- Maximum altitude of 3,210m/10,535ft at Poon Hill
Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory. Any reasonably fit person who enjoys hiking should be able to complete this trek.
Why choose Mountain Kick for your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
- Comprehensive package: Our price includes accommodation, tourist bus transportation, permits, and more
- Local expertise: Deep knowledge of the region and strong local connections
- Small group sizes: More personalized experience
- Safety focus: Trained guides with extensive experience
- Sustainable tourism: Responsible practices supporting local communities
How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?
You should be able to hike 4-6 hours daily while carrying a daypack (3-5kg). Prepare with:
- Cardiovascular training: 3-4 times weekly for 1-2 months (hiking, jogging, swimming)
- Strength training: Focus on leg and core strength
- Practice hikes: Complete several 3-4 hour hikes before your trek
- Stair climbing: Excellent preparation for the "3,000 steps" to Ulleri village
Consistency is more important than intensity. You don't need to be an athlete, but better fitness means a more enjoyable journey.
How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?
While the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek reaches a maximum altitude of only 3,210m/10,535ft, which is below the typical threshold where severe altitude sickness occurs, some trekkers may still experience mild symptoms. To prevent issues:
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily)
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Ascend slowly and follow your guide's pace
- Inform your guide immediately if you experience headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath
Our 9-day itinerary is designed with proper acclimatization in mind to minimize altitude sickness risk.
What permits do I need and how are they arranged?
Two permits are required:
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
2. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Mountain Kick handles all permit arrangements as part of our service. You'll just need to provide:
- Your passport details
- Two passport-sized photos
- Your arrival date in Nepal
Is the tourist bus comfortable?

The tourist buses we use feature reclining seats, air conditioning when needed, and are more comfortable than local buses. They make scheduled stops approximately every 2-3 hours for restroom breaks and refreshments. While not luxury coaches, they provide a comfortable and safe journey between the cities.
What if I prefer to fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu?

While our standard package includes bus transportation, we can arrange a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu for an additional fee of approximately $120-150 USD. The 25-minute flight offers spectacular mountain views and saves considerable time compared to the 7-hour bus journey. Please let us know at the time of booking if you prefer this option.
How long do I have to walk each day?
Daily walking times vary throughout the trek:
- Day 3 (Nayapul to Tikhedhunga): 3-4 hours
- Day 4 (Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani): 5-6 hours (most challenging day)
- Day 5 (Poon Hill sunrise + trek to Tadapani): 1.5 hours to Poon Hill + 4-5 hours to Tadapani
- Day 6 (Tadapani to Ghandruk): 4-5 hours
- Day 7 (Ghandruk to Syauli Bazaar): 3 hours
Walking times are estimates and may vary based on your pace, weather conditions, and group size. Your guide will ensure a comfortable pace with regular breaks for rest, hydration, and photography.
What type of accommodation is provided?
In Kathmandu and Pokhara:
- Three-star hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Breakfast included
- Private bathroom facilities
During the Trek:
- Guesthouse/teahouse accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Simple but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets
- Shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses
- Common dining areas with heating
Accommodation quality varies by location, with better facilities at lower elevations. The teahouses in Ghorepani and other popular stops offer more amenities than those in smaller villages.
What food options are available at teahouses?
Meals are not included during the trek, but teahouses offer various meal options for purchase:

Typical breakfast options:
- Porridge, muesli, or cornflakes
- Pancakes, Tibetan bread, or chapati
- Eggs prepared in various ways
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
Typical lunch and dinner options:
- Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)
- Momo (Tibetan dumplings)
- Noodle soups and pasta dishes
- Fried rice or noodles
- Soups and stews
Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended as meat storage can be unreliable at higher elevations.
How much should I budget for meals?
We recommend budgeting approximately $25-35 per day for meals. Prices increase with altitude, with meals at higher elevations costing up to twice as much as at lower elevations. A typical breakdown:
- Breakfast: $5-8
- Lunch: $8-12
- Dinner: $8-14
- Snacks and drinks: $3-6
Ghorepani and Poon Hill, being popular destinations, tend to have slightly higher prices than less-visited areas.
Are there any food safety considerations?

We recommend sticking to cooked foods, avoiding raw vegetables at higher elevations, and always using treated or bottled water. Vegetarian options are generally safer at higher elevations due to meat storage limitations. Your guide can advise on the best food choices at each location.
What happens in case of an emergency?
In case of a medical emergency:
1. Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid
2. For serious injuries, evacuation to the nearest medical facility will be arranged
3. If needed, helicopter evacuation will be arranged to Pokhara or Kathmandu
Helicopter Evacuation:
- Available from most points along the trek (weather permitting)
- Typically takes 1-3 hours to arrange
- Costs approximately $2,000-$3,500 USD (covered by proper travel insurance)
Mountain Kick maintains 24/7 emergency support and has established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals.
What medical facilities are available along the trek?
Medical facilities are limited but available at key points:
- Ghorepani: Basic health post with limited supplies
- Pokhara: Full medical facilities with Western-standard hospitals
Your Mountain Kick guide carries a first aid kit for basic treatment. For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Pokhara or Kathmandu is necessary.
What essential gear do I need?
Key items include:
- Moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
- Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Sleeping bag (rated 0°C to 5°C)
- Daypack (25-35L) for carrying daily essentials
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for the steep sections)
- Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for the pre-dawn Poon Hill hike)
- Water bottles and purification method
- Sunglasses (100% UV protection) and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Personal first aid kit and toiletries
Please check the full equipment list on our website for a comprehensive packing guide.
What can I rent in Kathmandu or Pokhara versus what should I bring?
Items you can easily rent in Kathmandu or Pokhara:
- Down jacket
- Sleeping bag
We strongly recommend bringing your own sleeping bag for comfort and hygiene reasons.

Items to bring from home:
- Hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Base layers and underwear
- Personal medications
- Electronics and chargers
Kathmandu and Pokhara have numerous trekking shops in the Thamel area. Mountain Kick can recommend reliable rental shops.
What additional expenses should I budget for?
Daily Expenses on the Trail:
- Meals: $25-35 per day
- Hot showers: $2-5 per shower
- Wi-Fi: $2-4 per day
- Battery charging: $2-4 per device
- Extra snacks and drinks: $2-8 per item
Other Expenses:
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast and farewell dinner)
How much cash should I carry during the trek?
We recommend carrying enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is extremely limited:
- ATMs are only available in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Exchange currency in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek
- Carry small denominations as change can be limited in remote areas
- Keep your money secure in a money belt or hidden pouch
- Budget approximately NPR 3,000-4,000 ($25-35) per day for meals and extras
Where will I get a visa to come to Nepal?

You can obtain a visa at your home country through Nepal’s embassy or consular office. But you can easily get a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You just need two passport-size photographs. A tourist visa with multiple entry for 30 days costs $40 while the same for 90 days costs $100.
What communication options are available during the trek?
- Mobile Coverage: Available in most villages but can be spotty and unreliable
- Wi-Fi: Available at most teahouses for a fee ($2-4 per day)
- Internet Speed: Generally slow, suitable for basic messaging but not video calls
- Local SIM Cards: NCell and Nepal Telecom SIM cards can be purchased in Kathmandu
- Signal Strength: Generally good throughout this trek as it follows a popular route
For emergency communication, your guide will have alternative methods to contact our office in Kathmandu.
What is the visa process for Nepal?
To enter Nepal, you'll need a tourist visa. Here's how to obtain one:

Visa on Arrival: Available at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
- 15-day visa: $30 USD
- 30-day visa: $50 USD
- 90-day visa: $125 USD
- Bring cash (USD preferred), a passport-sized photo, and your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Expect processing time of 30 minutes to 1.5 hours
Online Application: You can also apply online before arrival through Nepal's Department of Immigration website
- Complete the form and print the confirmation
- Pay the visa fee upon arrival
Mountain Kick can provide guidance on the visa process, but obtaining the visa is your responsibility.
What if I want to customize my trek?
Mountain Kick offers flexible customization options for your trek:
- Private Departures: Choose your own start date
- Itinerary Modifications: Add or remove days, change pace, or include side trips
- Extensions: Add experiences like Chitwan National Park or activities like paragliding in Pokhara
- Accommodation Upgrades: Request higher standard lodges where available
- Special Interests: Focus on photography, culture, or wildlife
Simply contact us with your preferences, and we'll create a customized itinerary that meets your needs. We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary.
What are the payment terms and cancellation policy?
Payment Terms:
- 20% non-refundable deposit required to confirm booking
- Balance payment due upon arrival in Kathmandu
Cancellation Policy:
- Cancellations 20 days or more before departure: 20% of total trip price deducted
- Cancellations less than 20 days before departure: 100% charge, no refund
- Trip rescheduling fee: $200 per person
For complete details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions page on our website.
What is the tipping etiquette for guides and porters?
Tipping is expected and an important part of the trekking culture in Nepal:
- Porters can be tipped in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu
- Guides can be tipped in Kathmandu at the farewell dinner
- The recommended amount is 10-15% of your total trip price

Essential Trip Information

Medical consultation is recommended before your trek – consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek. While the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek reaches a maximum altitude of only 3,210m/10,535ft, which is below the typical threshold where severe altitude sickness occurs, some trekkers may still experience mild symptoms.

Vaccinations recommended before coming to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized vaccination advice.

Spare days are essential – plan 1-2 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather. Schedule your international departure at least 1-2 days after your planned trek completion.

Weather and seasons: The best times to trek are during autumn (September-November) when skies are clear and temperatures moderate, and spring (March-May) when rhododendron forests bloom spectacularly. Winter (December-February) brings colder temperatures but fewer crowds. Monsoon season (June-August) is not recommended due to rain, leeches, and poor visibility.

Cultural etiquette in villages: The trek passes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages. Show respect by asking permission before taking photos of locals, dressing modestly, removing shoes before entering homes or religious sites, and using your right hand for giving or receiving items. Learning a few basic Nepali phrases is appreciated by locals.

Photography tips for Poon Hill sunrise: Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise to secure a good viewing spot. Bring a tripod for low-light conditions, extra batteries (cold depletes them faster), and lens cleaning supplies. The golden light on Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and other peaks creates spectacular photo opportunities.

Day activities: Various excursions are available in Pokhara before or after your trek, including paragliding over Phewa Lake, boating, visiting the International Mountain Museum, or exploring the Peace Pagoda. Mountain Kick can arrange these activities upon request.

Group discounts: Special rates are available for groups booking together, with larger groups qualifying for greater savings. Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size.

Packing Checklist

These items are considered absolutely critical by our Mountain Kick guides. Based on our extensive experience in the Himalayas, we strongly recommend prioritizing these items:

Layered clothing system – Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to changing conditions
Comfortable hiking boots – Well broken-in with ankle support and water resistance
Daypack – For carrying daily essentials while trekking
Water bottles/hydration system – For maintaining proper hydration
Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for the pre-dawn Poon Hill sunrise hike
Trekking poles – To provide stability and reduce stress on knees, especially on the steep sections
Sleeping bag – Rated for at least 0°C to 5°C

Clothing Layers

Base Layers

Lightweight thermal tops (2) – For insulation and moisture management
Lightweight thermal bottoms (1) – Base layer insulation for legs
Synthetic/merino wool underwear (4-5 pairs) – Moisture-wicking for comfort
Sports bras (2-3, for women) – For comfort and moisture management

Mid Layers

Trekking shirts (3) – Quick-drying, breathable fabrics; mix of short and long sleeve
Fleece jacket or pullover – Mid-layer insulation
Trekking pants (2 pairs) – Durable, comfortable pants for daily trekking
Hiking shorts (1 pair, optional) – For warmer conditions at lower elevations

Outer Layers

Waterproof/windproof jacket – Essential protection against precipitation and wind
Waterproof pants – Outer layer protection against rain
Down jacket/insulated parka – For warmth during the early morning Poon Hill hike and cold evenings

Headwear

Sun hat/baseball cap – For sun protection
Warm beanie/wool hat – To keep your head warm during the pre-dawn Poon Hill hike
Buff/neck gaiter – For neck and face protection in cold conditions
Sunglasses with 100% UV protection – Critical for protection against intense sun rays

Handwear

Lightweight gloves (wool or fleece) – For hand warmth, especially during the early morning Poon Hill hike

Footwear

Water-resistant hiking boots – Well broken-in with ankle support
Camp shoes/sandals/lightweight trainers – For relaxing after trekking days
Hiking socks (4 pairs) – Breathable, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool
Thermal/heavyweight socks (1 pair) – For colder conditions during the Poon Hill sunrise hike

Bags and Packs

Duffel bag (60-70L, if using porters) – Water-resistant, durable, and lockable
Daypack (25-35L) – For carrying daily essentials while trekking
Pack rain cover – To protect your pack from precipitation
Stuff sacks/dry bags – For organizing and waterproofing items

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping bag (rated for at least 0°C to 5°C) – For warmth during cold nights
Sleeping bag liner – Adds warmth and cleanliness, especially if renting a sleeping bag

Trekking Equipment

Trekking poles – Provide stability, reduce stress on knees, especially helpful for the steep sections
Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for the pre-dawn Poon Hill sunrise hike
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration reservoir (2-3L) – For staying hydrated
Water purification – Tablets, drops, or SteriPEN

Personal Items

Quick-dry towel – Lightweight and compact
Toiletry kit – Including biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Sunscreen (SPF 40+) – For UV protection at high altitudes
Lip balm with SPF – Protection against chapped lips in cold, dry weather
Hand sanitizer – For hygiene on the trail
Toilet paper – Not always available in teahouses
Wet wipes/biodegradable wipes – For cleaning when showers aren’t available
Ear plugs – For better sleep in shared accommodations
Cash in Nepalese Rupees for all meals (approximately $20-30 per day)
Small padlock – For securing your belongings

First Aid and Medications

Personal first aid kit – Basic supplies for minor injuries
Pain relievers – Ibuprofen, paracetamol for headaches
Anti-diarrheal medication – Imodium or Pepto-Bismol
Blister treatment – Moleskin, bandages, tape
Throat lozenges – For the dry air
Electrolyte tablets/powder – For hydration and preventing cramps
Motion sickness medication if you’re prone to car sickness (for the bus journeys)
Personal medications – Bring enough for the entire trip plus extra

Note: Please consult your doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek

Electronics

Camera with spare batteries and memory cards – Temperatures can drain batteries faster
Phone in waterproof case – For communication and photos
Portable power bank – For recharging devices
Adapters – For charging in Nepal (Type C, D, and M plugs)
Watch with alarm – For keeping track of time, especially for the early morning Poon Hill hike

Optional Items

Trekking snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, chocolate
Pocket knife or multi-tool – For various uses
Binoculars – For wildlife and mountain viewing
Neck pillow for the bus journey
Books or entertainment – For downtime
Journal and pen – For documenting your journey
Playing cards – For entertainment in teahouses
Cash in small denominations – For purchases, tips, and emergencies
Passport photos – For permits and visas
TIMS card and ACAP permit – Required documents for the trek

General Packing Tips for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:

Layer your clothing – This allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day
Break in your boots – Wear your hiking boots before the trek to prevent blisters
Pack light – Porters will carry your main duffel bag, but there is typically a weight limit of 15kg
Prioritize quality – Invest in good quality gear for critical items like boots, jacket, and sleeping bag
Consider rentals – Many items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you don’t want to invest in gear you may not use again

Special Note for Poon Hill Sunrise Hike: Remember that you’ll be hiking to Poon Hill before dawn for the sunrise views. This requires warm clothing layers, gloves, a hat, and a reliable headlamp with fresh batteries. Temperatures can be quite cold in the early morning, so prepare accordingly.

Remember that this equipment list is comprehensive, and you may need to adjust based on the season of your trek, personal preferences, and specific trek itinerary. At Mountain Kick, we provide a detailed briefing before departure and can help you finalize your packing list based on current conditions.

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customize your trip

We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.

Travellers	PRICING FROM (USD)
1	870
2-3	550
4-9	440

We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.