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Arrive in Kathmandu: (Altitude: 1,280 m/ 4,200 ft)
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the gateway to Nepal's trekking adventures, trekkers are immersed in a lively atmosphere filled with rich culture, bustling markets, and historic temples. This brief stay offers time to rest after the journey and prepare for the trek ahead. It's also an opportunity to meet our guide and team, check gear, and soak in the city's unique charm before heading to the Annapurna region to begin the scenic Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.
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Drive to Pokhara: (Altitude: 830 m / 2723 ft | Distance: 203.41 km/ 126 miles | Drive duration: 8-9 hrs)
After breakfast our journey begins with a 7-8 hours picturesque drive down the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway. Hot lunch will be served on the way at a nice restaurant. Pokhara’s tranquil beauty has been the subject of inspiration for many travel writers. Its pristine air, spectacular backdrop of snowy peaks, blue lakes and surrounding greenery make it ‘the jewel in the Himalaya’, a place of remarkable natural disposition. With the magnificent Annapurna range forming the backdrop and the serenity of the cluster of nine lakes with three major ones - Phewa, Rupa and Begnas. Pokhara is a great destination for a weekend getaway as well as a long relaxing holiday.
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Drive to Naya Pul and Trek to Tikhe Dhunga: (Altitude: 1,570 m / 5,150 ft | Distance: 45.4 km/ 28.2 miles | Trek duration: 4-5 hrs)
The journey starts with a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, passing through lush hills and countryside. From Nayapul (1,070m), the trek begins with a gentle walk along the Modi Khola river, passing through Birethanti for permit checks. The trail then gradually ascends through small villages, terraced fields, and forests, eventually reaching Tikhe Dhunga (1,540m) in about 4 to 5 hours. It’s a pleasant and easy start to the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
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Trek to Ghorepani: (Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft | Distance: 12.9 km/ 8 miles | Trek duration: 6 hrs)
The trek from Tikhe Dhunga to Ghorepani is a challenging but rewarding day, taking about 6 to 7 hours. The trail begins with a steep climb up a long stone staircase, over 3,000 steps to the village of Ulleri (2,070m). From there, it continues through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, passing small settlements like Banthanti and Nangethanti. The path gradually gains altitude, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks along the way. Finally, you reach Ghorepani (2,860m), a charming village with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and the gateway to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint.
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Trek to Tadapani (Morning hike to Poon Hill): (Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft | Distance: 10 km/ 6.2 miles | Trek duration: 7 hrs)
The next morning, before trekking to Tadapani, you’ll take an early pre-dawn hike (about 45 minutes to 1 hour) up to Poon Hill (3,210m) for the famous sunrise view. From the top, you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, bathed in golden morning light—one of the trek’s biggest highlights. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, the trek continues towards Tadapani (2,630m). The trail climbs through lush rhododendron forests to Deurali Pass (3,090m), then descends and winds through dense woodland rich in birds and occasional mountain views. The trek takes around 5 to 6 hours, with Tadapani offering stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
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Trek to Ghandruk: (Altitude: 1,940 m / 6,364 ft | Distance: 6.5 km/ 4 miles | Trek duration: 3 hrs)
The trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk is a relatively short and pleasant descent, taking about 3 to 4 hours. The trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron and oak, with occasional clearings offering beautiful views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. As you descend, the landscape gradually opens up into terraced fields and farmland. Eventually, you arrive at Ghandruk (1,940m), a picturesque Gurung village known for its traditional houses, rich culture, and stunning mountain backdrop. It’s a great place to relax, explore local museums, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
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Trek to Naya Pul and drive to Pokhara: (Altitude: 830 m / 2,723 ft | Distance: 8.3 km/ 5.6 miles | Trek duration: 7 hrs)
The final day of the trek starts with a gradual descent from Ghandruk to Nayapul, taking about 4 to 5 hours. The trail passes through terraced farmlands, small villages, and lush green hills, following the Modi Khola river valley. It’s a gentle and scenic walk, offering a relaxing end to the trek. Once you reach Nayapul, you’ll meet your vehicle and drive back to Pokhara, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The return offers one last look at the countryside before you arrive in Pokhara, where you can unwind by the lakeside and reflect on the journey.
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Drive to Kathmandu: (Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft | Distance: 203.41 km/ 126 miles |Drive duration: 8-9 hrs)
Drive back to Kathmandu. As you leave this special area of Nepal, wave goodbye to the massive, majestic, and magical Machhapucchre mountain.