Annapurna Skyline Trek (Ghorepani and Poon hill trek )
The Annapurna Skyline trek, also known as the Ghorepani and Poon hill trek, begins and ends in Pokhara. The trip begins with a day of exploring the historic temples and landmarks that dot the bustling capital. Then, take a scenic flight to Pokhara and start the trek the same day. The Annapurna Skyline trek traverses through several bucolic Gurung villages. The Gurungs are one of sixty ethnic groups in Nepal and the predominant race recruited in the famous Gurkha regiment of the British and Indian army.
The Ghorepani trek begins in temperate terraced rice fields, gradually ascending to old growth and bamboo forests. Climb up and down the infamous “Gurung staircases” along the Modi Khola river. Past Ghandruk, hike along the ridge to Ghorepani. Make an early morning ascent up Pun Hill to watch the sun rise over the Annapurna range. Finally, descend to Ulleri through rhododendron forests that may just be in bloom! Also, if you have time, do consider adding the Khopra Ridge Trek to the Ghorepani and Poon hill trek.
Highlights
- Spectacular views of the Annapurna range.
- Trek through rhododendron forests in bloom.
- Post trek massage.
- Cooking class and dinner at a Nepali home.
ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS
The Ghorepani Trek is a lodge trek. Therefore you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are reasonably good compared to other trekking trails in Nepal. And some of them have en suite rooms with hot showers. Additionally, meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on lodge treks.
BEST SEASON
Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for trekking to Ghorepani are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). Furthermore, it is possible to do this trek in Winter months of December, January and February. While it will obviously be very cold (upto -15 C/, 5 F), it will be less crowded and there aren’t as many trekkers in the area.
TREK RATING
The Annapurna Skyline trek (Ghorepani Trek) is rated “MILDLY-STRENUOUS”. It is rated 3 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). The highest altitude reached is at Pun hill. Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours. Regardless, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.
WHY TREK WITH US?
All our Ghorepani Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff.
We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…