Annapurna Circuit Trek via Ghorepani, Poon Hill
The classic circuit finished with Nepal's most famous sunrise viewpoint
Annapurna Circuit Trek via Ghorepani, Poon Hill overview
This variation of the classic Annapurna Circuit crosses Thorong La (5,416 m) and descends the Kali Gandaki valley as usual, but instead of ending at Jomsom or Tatopani, continues on foot through the hot springs village of Tatopani and up into the rhododendron forests of Ghorepani. From here, a pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m) delivers one of the most celebrated panoramas in Nepal — a sweeping sunrise arc of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and the Annapurna Sanctuary. The route then descends through Gurung villages to Nayapul, ending in Pokhara. It's an excellent choice for trekkers who want the complete Annapurna Circuit experience combined with the iconic Poon Hill sunrise, without adding a separate second trip.
Country
Nepal
Duration
15 Days
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max. altitude
5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)
Best season
Mar–May / Sep–Nov
Difficulty level
Moderate
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to hotel. Evening trek briefing and gear check.
Price includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off transfers in Kathmandu
- Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide throughout
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, 15 kg limit per trekker)
- All tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
- Kathmandu–Chame ground transport and Nayapul–Pokhara transfer
- First aid kit and pulse oximeter carried by guide
- Emergency high-altitude rescue coordination
- Trek completion certificate
What's not included
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Travel and rescue insurance with high-altitude coverage (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear including sleeping bag and down jacket (rentals available)
- Hot spring entry fee at Tatopani
- Wi-Fi, battery charging, and hot showers at tea houses
- Alcoholic drinks, snacks, and other personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters (customary)
Packing tips
Packing right is half the battle on any Himalayan trek. Keep your main bag under 15 kg — your porter will thank you. Everything in your daypack should be accessible on the trail.
Clothing & Layers
- Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 sets)
- Insulating mid-layer — fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and trousers
- Trekking trousers (convertible zip-off recommended)
- Warm hat, sun hat, and buff/neck gaiter
- Thermal gloves and waterproof over-gloves
- Woollen or synthetic trekking socks (5–7 pairs)
Footwear
- Sturdy, ankle-supporting trekking boots (broken in before the trip)
- Camp sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings at tea houses
- Waterproof gaiters for snow sections
Gear & Equipment
- 30–40 L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (reduces knee stress on descents)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag rated to −10°C (tea house blankets are provided but can be thin)
- Sunglasses with UV400 protection
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (3 L capacity recommended)
- Water purification tablets or a portable filter
Health & Safety
- Personal first aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic, and pain relief
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) — consult your doctor before
- High-SPF sunscreen and UV-protective lip balm
- Insect repellent (lower elevations)
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Frequently asked questions
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