The Ghorepani to Ghandruk loop is a five-day route: climb from Nayapul to Ghorepani, watch the Poon Hill sunrise, then cross to Tadapani and descend to Ghandruk before returning to the road.
A loop that avoids repeating the trail
The Ghorepani and Ghandruk loop is a favourite because you go up one side of the ridge and down the other, so every day has new scenery. The standard plan takes five days from Pokhara to Pokhara, with a sixth day sometimes added for flexibility. Heights and times below are approximate.
Day 1: Pokhara to Tikhedhunga
Drive about 1.5 hours to Nayapul, register at the Birethanti check post and walk to Tikhedhunga at roughly 1,540 m. The day is short, so you arrive in time to relax and let your legs settle.
Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani
Climb the Ulleri staircase, continue through Banthanti and Nangethanti and reach Ghorepani at about 2,860 m. Expect five to seven hours of walking. Rhododendron forest takes over in the upper half.
Day 3: Poon Hill and on to Tadapani
Rise before dawn with a head torch, climb for about an hour to Poon Hill at 3,210 m, watch the sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, return for breakfast and then walk through forest to Tadapani at about 2,630 m. This is a long, scenic day.
Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk
Descend for a few hours through forest and terraced fields to Ghandruk, at around 1,940 m. You will have time to visit the museum and explore the village.
Day 5: Ghandruk to Pokhara
Walk or drive down to Nayapul and return to Pokhara. If you want a gentler finish, take a jeep from Kimche.
Sunrise tips for Poon Hill
Leave Ghorepani at about five fifteen with a head torch, so that you reach the top before the sun rises. A thermos of tea from the lodge is welcome. Arrive early to find a place on the platform, and stay for photographs after the crowd leaves.
Pacing the stairs
On the Ulleri stairs, keep a slow, steady rhythm and use your poles. Rest at the tea houses and drink water. Do not race, as the long climb is a marathon rather than a sprint.
Variations
You can add a night at Ghorepani for a second sunrise, or extend to Mardi Himal or Annapurna Base Camp. See the difficulty guide.
