Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

What to Expect on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Staying in a Teahouse

Teahouses are more rudimentary than lodges since they are simply cozy mountain rest stops along the trekking routes where one can buy foods and stay overnight. Most have twin rooms or dorms that share bathrooms. These bathrooms may have squat or Western toilets. Some teahouses have showers but there is usually an extra cost since hot water requires a lot of resources in remote areas.

As is teahouse custom, the rooms are generally just beds and blankets. It is prudent to pack sleeping bags. There is heating in the kitchen, but not in the sleeping areas. This creates a gathering spot around the stove for fellow trekkers to socialize and indulge in the food while sharing tales.

Charging mobile devices comes at a cost. Expect to pay a few dollars to charge phones or cameras. It is best to travel with a power bank or solar charger. However, electricity or solar power is the norm.

Food on the Trail

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Route is one of the most known trekking routes in Nepal. Famed for its panoramic view of the Himalayas, it is the highest in the region so the altitude may limit options, but there is a surprising variety to delight every culinary preference: Nepali, Indian, Western, and even Chinese food are generally available, so do not be afraid of trying your new tastes while adventuring new heights.

Breakfast could feature spicy Nepalese omelets, coffee or tea, and even a sugary boost in form of toast and jam or honey, all topped off with porridge.

For lunch, the most common staples include dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) and sometimes chowmein.

Dinner is more diverse, ranging from fried rice, Tibetan bread, and pasta, to macaroni and even simple pizzas.

There is a wide range of tea, coffee and even hot chocolate available. Not to mention soft drinks, beer and spirits, however we recommend being cautious with alcohol at altitude.

In an effort to cut down on plastic, teahouses charge a small fee for boiled drinking water. We recommend bringing a water purification system with you, like a LifeStraw or tablets.

Hot Showers – Yes, But Not Free Most teahouses along the trekking route have hot showers available for use, at a price of $3 to $5. This is reasonable given that gas must be transported from urban locations. After a few days on the trail, the majority of trekkers resolve to shower just a handful of times — and with the cold weather, you may not mind skipping a day or two!

Trek’s Highest Point

During your trek, the highest point reached will be Poon Hill, which sits at 3,210 meters (10,531ft). The rate of altitude increase is moderate, which means that this is the ideal trek for people who wish to see the Himalayas without the need for strenuous high altitude trekking.

Is This Trek Difficult?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is moderately rated. It is not a trekking peak that requires technical climbing, however, some level of fitness is necessary along with the ability to walk for 4 to 7 hours a day on rough paths and stone steps.

Altitude Sickness – Should You Worry?

Not likely. Poon Hill is above 3000m but you will only spend a very short time at this altitude. Most people do not suffer from altitude sickness, and in any case, our guides are trained to handle any eventualities.

Enhance Your Adventure

As your trek concludes in Pokhara, you may want to relax at the lakeside for a few more days. We are able to assist in planning your accommodations, tours, or additional activities.

Most popular trip highlights are:

• Kathmandu Valley Heritage Tour – Explore the intricately carved historic temples and palaces from the bygone era with a local guide.
• Chitwan National Park – Just 5 hours by road from Kathmandu, Chitwan features luxurious lodges, wildlife safaris, and river canoeing. You can spot rhinos, deer, and (if luck is on your side) even tigers.
• Bardia National Park – A more off the beaten path but tranquil park though famed for tiger sightings, river rafting, and bird observing. Bardia’s remote location requires a flight and a drive, so we suggest a minimum 3-night stay.
• Megauli – Ideal for luxury, seclusion, and emerging as a safari spot in Chitwan Region. Sightseeing is only possible with private transport or lodge shuttle.

Reservation and Payment

Reservations can be paid online through our secured system. Add private transfers, hotels, and flights while checking out and pay a proportion or full amount through credit card.

A Porter: Am I Required to Hire One?

Porters are not included in the standard package, but can be hired for a trek for around 128 dollars. A single porter, who costs that amount, can carry up to 20 kilograms and this is usually shared between two trekkers. It’s always a good idea to pack your day essentials separately, as porters tend to walk ahead.

Charging Additional Devices

For every device, expect to pay 2 to 3 dollars, and electricity can mostly be found at teahouses. Bring portable powe banks and clip-on solar chargers in order to save on the cost.

Wi-Fi, Mobile Signal, and Connectivity

Most stops along the route provide Wi-Fi or mobile network access to enable you stay in touch with family and friends.

Private Tours vs Group Tours

A rough estimate of group sizes gather around 8 people, but small groups tend to be popular. Group private treks can be selected during booking with no other additional fees.

Transport Services from Kathmandu to Pokhara

We arrange transport by tourist bus, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off. For further convenience, private vehicles or domestic flights can be arranged with notice.

Arrival in Kathmandu

We will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. For those who miss connections or suffer flight delays, there are prepaid taxis available at the airport to Thamel for NPR 600-800.

Travel Insurance

All trekkers are required to have valid travel insurance that includes trekking activities. While our staff is covered under a policy, personal coverage is important.

Safety and Trekking Tips

Generally speaking, Nepal is a safe country to travel to, however, some recommendations include:

• Refrain from politically fueled protests
• Valuable items should be kept out of sight
• Additional items such as extra clothing should be left in our office during the trek
• In the unlikely event of an illness, landslides or extreme weather, always listen to your guide.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is a social norm in Nepal. You will need to give around 10% to restaurants and $1-5 to private drivers. With trekking staff, tips are usually given in a group based on their level of service.

How Much Cash to Bring?

You will need $10-15 a day set aside for additional expenditures such as cold showers, battery charging, snacks and drinks. This does not cover tip expenses, which should be allocated separately.

Cultural Considerations

Take off shoes/dress modestly/avoid public displays of affection

Show respect by removing shoes prior to entering homes, and dress conservatively while at religious sites.

ATMs and currency exchange facilities are available in both Pokhara and Kathmandu. Traveling into the country with USD, GBP, AUD, SGD, MYR, or Euros is beneficial as they can be exchanged for local currency. Several stores accept credit cards, however, this incurs an additional fee of 3–4%.

After With Your Trek

• We highly value feedback — be sure to tell us how your trek went and how we may be of further assistance.
• Notify us at least 24 hours in advance if you wish to make amendments to your plans.

Critical Trekking Information

If not arranged as a private mode of travel, transports are conducted via public or tourist bus.

Participants registering for the trek individually are allowed, although single accommodation along the trail is not guaranteed.

Meals throughout the trek are included with the exception of beverages and snack items.

Stipulations with regards to flying drones apply; permission must be sought in advance.

Above All – Enjoy the Journey!

Whether it’s pre-dawn hikes up to Poon Hill for the sunrise views, or a hot cup of tea from the warm lodges while gazing out over the magnificent Himalayas, or while losing yourself in the many cultural wonders of Nepal, the journey goes beyond the geographic features and is rather a holistic adventure that is unforgettable.