Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Ghorepani Poon Hill 

A Perfect Blend of Himalayan Sunrise, Culture & High-Altitude Adventure

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Ghorepani Poon Hill is one of the most popular and scenic trekking routes in Nepal. This iconic Himalayan adventure perfectly combines spectacular mountain views, rich cultural experiences, diverse landscapes, and moderate trekking difficulty, making it suitable for both first-time trekkers and experienced hikers. By combining the legendary Poon Hill sunrise with the dramatic beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary, this trek delivers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Nepal Himalayas.

Journey Begins: Nayapul to the Heart of the Annapurna Region

The trek officially starts from Nayapul, a small town located about 1.5 hours from Pokhara. Nayapul serves as the main gateway to the Annapurna region and marks the beginning of an incredible walking adventure. From here, the trail gradually ascends through traditional villages, terraced farmlands, and river valleys, offering a close look at rural Nepali life.

As you walk through charming settlements, stone staircases lead you past fields of rice, millet, maize, and barley, carefully carved into the hillsides over generations. Suspension bridges cross rushing rivers, while waterfalls cascade down moss-covered cliffs. The landscape continuously changes, keeping every day fresh and exciting.

During the ascent, trekkers pass through lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and oak woodlands. In spring, the forests explode with color as red, pink, and white rhododendrons bloom, creating one of the most beautiful trekking environments in Nepal. Gradually, the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges begin to appear, teasing trekkers with glimpses of the snow-covered giants ahead.

Ghorepani & Poon Hill: World-Famous Himalayan Sunrise

One of the biggest highlights of this trek is Ghorepani, a beautiful mountain village situated at 2,860 meters (9,383 feet). Ghorepani is a key resting point on the route and is known for its welcoming teahouses, cozy lodges, and breathtaking surroundings. Encircled by dense rhododendron forests, the village feels peaceful and timeless.

From Ghorepani, trekkers wake early for a hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters / 10,531 feet)—one of the most famous viewpoints in Nepal. The sunrise from Poon Hill is truly magical. As dawn breaks, the golden sunlight slowly illuminates the Himalayan skyline, revealing stunning peaks such as Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak.

This panoramic viewpoint offers one of the best short hikes in Nepal and is a photographer’s paradise. The experience of watching the Himalayas glow under the morning sun is often remembered as a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Deeper into the Himalayas: Toward Annapurna Base Camp

After enjoying Poon Hill, the trail continues deeper into the Annapurna region via Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Bamboo. The terrain gradually becomes more alpine, and the air grows cooler and thinner as altitude increases. Each section of the trail offers unique scenery, from dense forests to steep river valleys.

Chhomrong, a large and vibrant Gurung village, is one of the most important stops along the route. It provides stunning views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre and offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional mountain life. The village is also a major gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.

The trail then follows the Modi Khola river, passing through Bamboo and Deurali before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) at 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). From MBC, trekkers enjoy close-up views of the sacred Machhapuchhre, a mountain revered by locals and never climbed.

Finally, the journey reaches its ultimate destination—Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet). The Annapurna Sanctuary feels like a massive natural amphitheatre, completely surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Standing at ABC, trekkers are face-to-face with Annapurna I (8,091 meters), the tenth-highest mountain in the world, along with Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre. The sense of accomplishment, peace, and awe at base camp is truly unforgettable.