Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek All Year Round: Weather, Seasons and Travel Guide

1. Introduction – Can you do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek All Year Round?

Yes, you can trek the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek All Year Round with different mountain conditions depending on which season you visit. This is a popular short trek in the Annapurna region. Along the route you will see stunning Himalayan views, traditional villages and rhododendron forests.

Meanwhile, the trek will take you to one of the easiest viewpoints in the Himalayas in Nepal to Poon Hill, at an elevation of 3,210 metres. You will enjoy panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m) and Machhapuchhre (6,993m).

Typically, this trek can be completed in 4-5 days depending on your starting point and how quick you walk. You will walk a distance of approx 35-45km. The route will take you through Tikhedhunga (1,540m), Ulleri (approx 2,050m), Ghorepani (approx 2,860m or 2,874m), Tadapani (2,630m) and Ghandruk (1,940m).

Here, the best times to trek are typically during the spring and autumn months. During March and April you will see lots of beautiful rhododendron trees. During October and November you will typically have clear skies and nice daytime temperatures.

During the winter it can be quite a peaceful trek with possible snowfall. During the monsoon you will have more rain, cloud and slippery paths. Depending on your interests, weather preferences and flexibility you can choose the best time to go.

Reasons to Go on the Poon Hill Trek All Year Round :

• Spring – Beautiful rhododendron trees, nice temperatures and beautiful mountain views.
• Summer/Monsoon – Lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls and less people.
• Autumn – Generally clear mountain views, nice temperatures and lively villages.
• Winter – Peaceful treks, crisp mornings and possible snow.

However, conditions can be quite different throughout the year. Before going on your trek it is worth checking the local weather, trail conditions and availability of accommodation.

2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Weather and Temperatures

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek has quite varied weather throughout the year. The temperatures will vary depending on how high you are, how much rain there is, how cloudy it is and the wind conditions.

Typically, the lower villages near Nayapul (1,070m) will be warmer than Ghorepani (2,860m/2,874m). However, at Poon Hill (3,210m) the temperatures will be colder in the mornings with stronger winds and possible snow during the winter months.

Below is a table showing an indication of what the temperatures will be like during each month around 2,310m. These are just averages and can vary.

Note: These are averages based on climate data from our Haven Holidays team experience. Actual temperatures can vary depending on the height and daily weather conditions.

Key Weather Conditions :

• June to September – Typically the most rainfall during the monsoon.
• December to February – Possible snow and icy sections.
• October to November – Generally better mountain views. Can have cloudy conditions.
• Poon Hill – Can feel much colder in the early morning.
• Exposed viewpoints – Can feel colder due to wind, especially during the winter.

Temperatures will typically get colder the higher up you go. It is worth packing warm layers, waterproofs and good shoes.

Note: The temperatures shown below are for around 2,310m experienced during the operation of the trip by Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. Team. This is not an exact figure for Ghorepani or Poon Hill. The higher up you go the colder it will be. Be prepared for freezing temperatures in the mornings during the winter.

Most importantly, always check the latest local weather forecast before leaving Pokhara. The mountain views, snow and rain can change quite quickly.

3. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Spring (March, April and May)

During the spring months March, April and May the Poon Hill Trek in Nepal provides beautiful sights. Not only are the temperatures perfect for trekking but the forests are full of colour and the views of the Himalayas are amazing. Throughout the month the Annapurna region gets progressively warmer and the rhododendron trees bloom along the trekking routes.

Here, March and April are some of the most beautiful months to trek in Ghorepani Poon Hill. The region around Ghorepani (2860-2874m), Banthanti (approx 2210m) and Tadapani (2630m) are covered in rhododendrons, the national flower of Nepal. The forests look amazing with the flowers in bloom.

During the day the temperatures are generally pleasant however the mornings and evenings can be quite cold at higher altitudes. March can often be quite chilly or have some snowfall. May is warmer and can sometimes be quite humid.

However, Spring is not always perfect with some cloud cover, mist or rain throughout the afternoons. Starting early will help you get the most out of the mountain views.

Why Ghorepani Poon Hill trek in spring?

• Rhododendron Bloom – March and April are generally the most beautiful months to see the rhododendron bloom along the forest trails.
• Pleasant Temperatures – The temperatures are nice and mild making the uphill sections and long days easier.
• Beautiful mountain views – If there is little cloud cover in the mornings you will have amazing views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre ranges.
• Colourful – The forests, villages and hills begin to become full of colour.
• Generally good conditions – Overall the conditions are great for beginners or experienced trekkers.

Things to consider when trekking in spring :

• Pack warm clothing as it can still be very cold before dawn in Poon Hill (3210m).
• Pack a light waterproof jacket as there may be some rain during spring.
• Start early to increase your chances of seeing the mountain views.
• Book accommodation in advance during April and busy holiday periods.

Overall, April is a very beautiful time to go on the Ghorepani Trek. If you love rhododendron forests and the pleasant temperatures then this is the season for you. However, March and May can also provide a rewarding experience with the right preparation.

4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Summer and Monsoon (June, July and August)

During the summer months, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek experiences the monsoon season in Nepal. This means there will be frequent rain, humid conditions and cloudy mountain views. Whilst it is possible to trek during June, July and August the conditions are generally not as predictable.

Throughout the summer months there will be a lot of rainfall in the foothills of Annapurna. In July and August there will be lots of rain around the stony steps in Ulleri (approx 2050m), forest trails in Banthanti and towards Ghorepani (2860-2874m). This can make the trails slippery and muddy.

Here, July and August can also be a bit more challenging on the Poon Hill Trek. There will be lots of leeches in the wet forest areas. There can also be localised landslides, rock falls and road closures due to heavy rainfall.

However, the area can look beautiful during the monsoon season. With lots of waterfalls, fresh greenery and fewer international trekkers. Whilst there will often be cloud cover over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges there can still be some nice mountain views during the clear mornings.

If you are planning to trek in Annapurna during the monsoon season it is important to be flexible with your travel dates. Before starting your trek you should check the conditions of the trails, road access and weather.

Note: Approximate temperatures around Ghorepani and trekking altitudes experienced by Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. Team. Actual temperatures will depend on how much rain, altitude and weather.

What to expect during monsoon season ?

• Lots of rain – There will be frequent showers.
• Slippery trails – The stony steps, muddy paths and exposed tree roots can be slippery.
• Leeches – There will be more leeches in the wet forest areas.
• Cloudy mountains – The mountains can be quite cloudy so you may not see Annapurna South (7219m), Machhapuchhre (6993m) and Dhaulagiri (8167m).
• Greenery – The forests and hills will be greener. Waterfalls and streams will be more active.
• Fewer trekkers – The trails will be a lot quieter.

Things to pack for Poon Hill Trek in Monsoon :

• A waterproof jacket, trousers and backpack cover.
• Waterproof trekking boots with good grip and waterproof socks.
• Leech socks or protection for the wet forest areas.
• Be flexible with your trekking times as there may be delays due to heavy rain.
• Check the road conditions between Pokhara and trekking start points.
• Avoid crossing flooded streams and walking under unstable slopes during heavy rain.

Is Monsoon a Good Time to go on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

If you love seeing lush greenery and quieter mountain trails then this could be a Good Time to go. However, July and August are generally not recommended as there will be constant rain affecting your safety, comfort and views.

If you decide to trek during the summer months then having an experienced local guide can help you with route choices and changing trail conditions. Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd can help with planning your trip around the seasons, booking accommodation and licensed trekking guides.

5. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Autumn (September, October & November)

Autumn is generally considered to be one of the best times to go on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The weather is pleasant and there are clearer skies.

Likewise, the trekking locations are also nice with great views of the Himalayan mountains. As the monsoon has finished, the amount of rain begins to reduce. Everything around you will look fresh and green.

Importantly, October and November are popular times to do the Poon Hill Trek. The days are generally nice and warm and the views are clearer. On clear mornings you will get great views of Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m) and Machhapuchhre (6993m) from Poon Hill (3210m).

Actually, September can still have some monsoon rain, especially in the first few weeks. However, as the month goes on conditions become more consistent. This will vary depending on the year.

In fact, Autumn is a busy time in Nepal as there are lots of festivals happening such as Dashain and Tihar. The villages and cities will be very busy and full of life.

However, you may find that transport, shops and other services will run differently during the busy festival times. It is important to book essential things in advance.

Note: These temperatures are approximate and experienced by Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd. Team in the field  and will vary depending on your location and the weather.

Why go on the Poon Hill Trek in Autumn?

• Clear mountain views – October and November can give you great views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.
• Pleasant temperatures – The days will generally be nice and you will enjoy walking. However, it will be cold in the mornings.
• Fresh greenery – After the monsoon everything will look fresh and green including the forests, hills and terraces.
• Improved trekking conditions – The trails will generally be drier.
• Festivals – You can experience Nepalese culture with Dashain and Tihar. You can get involved with the decorations and family celebrations.
• Popular – The teahouses will be busy with lots of local and international travellers.

Things to Consider :

• Book teahouse accommodation in advance, especially in October and November.
• Plan your transport in Pokhara and trekking in advance as it can be busy during the festivals.
• Pack warm clothes including jackets, gloves and appropriate clothing for the early morning walks.
• Start your trek up Poon Hill early to get there in time for sunrise.
• Be flexible with your schedule as the weather can be unpredictable.

Overall, October is a great time to go on the Ghorepani Trek. If you want clear mountain views and pleasant walking conditions then this is a great time to go.

Most importantly, November can be a quieter time towards the end of the month. However, the temperatures will start to get colder.

6. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Winter (December, January & February)

You can go on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in the winter months of December, January and February. However, the temperatures will be colder and there may be some snowfall. The trails will generally be quieter compared to the busy autumn months. You will experience peaceful villages and beautiful mountain views on clear days.

Here, December will start to get colder around Ghorepani (2860-2874m) and Poon Hill (3210m). January will generally be the coldest month with freezing temperatures at night. There may be some snowfall in the higher parts of the forest.

Actually, Poon Hill can look beautiful in January. Especially if there has been fresh snowfall around Ghorepani and the surrounding hills.

However, the snow and ice can make the stone steps, forest trails and open parts of the trail very slippery especially in the early mornings.

Likewise, February will start to get warmer with longer days. However, it will still be quite cold in the mornings and there may be some snowfall. Be prepared for changing conditions.

Importantly, the mornings can be very clear giving you great views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. 
However, there may be some snowfall, cloud and strong winds which can affect your sunrise experience. You cannot guarantee clear mountain views.

Note: These temperatures are approximate, experienced and can be colder during cold periods.

What to Expect ?

• Cold mornings – The temperatures around Ghorepani and Poon Hill can be very cold and sometimes freezing.
• Snowfall – There may be some snowfall during December and January. Especially in the higher parts of the forest.
• Icy trails – The stone steps and shaded forest trails can be very slippery in the early mornings.
• Clear mountain views – The winter conditions can be very consistent giving you great views on good days.
• Peaceful villages – There will be less international travellers making the trek more peaceful.
• Shorter days – You need to be careful with the amount of time you spend walking.

What to Pack ?

• Warm jacket – Pack a warm jacket such as a down or synthetic jacket.
• Thermal clothes – Pack thermal tops and bottoms and extra fleeces.
• Winter accessories – Pack thermal gloves, a warm hat, scarf and thick socks.
• Trekking boots – Pack waterproof trekking boots with good grip.
• Sleeping bag – Pack a suitable sleeping bag if the blankets provided in the teahouses are not enough.
• Sun protection – Pack sunglasses and sun cream as the sun can be strong at higher altitudes.

Things to Consider

Check how much snowfall there will be and what the conditions will be like on the trails. Ask local guides or teahouses if there are any icy parts and how to walk safely.

Pack trekking poles to help with balance on the steep stone steps.
Be careful when starting your sunrise hike especially if the temperature is below freezing.
Allow extra time in case you are walking slower due to snow or icy conditions.

Overall, winter can be a great alternative. December and February can be quite manageable. However, January will generally require more consideration with the cold temperatures.

7. Best Time to Go on Poon Hill Trek by Month

The best time to go on the Poon Hill Trek is usually between March to May and October to November. Each month will have different benefits depending on the amount of rain, temperatures, how clear the mountain scenery will be and how the terrain will be.

Here, Spring months will provide beautiful rhododendron forests. March and April are particularly great times to go on this trek. Autumn months will provide clearer mountain views, pleasant temperatures and the paths will be fairly dry.

Likewise, September can also be a great month to go on this trek. However early September can still be quite wet with monsoon rains and cloudy. December, January and February would be good months to go on this trek if you are prepared for the winter. June, July and August will require more flexibility due to the amount of rain.

Overall, it depends on your personal preferences, how much time you have and how flexible you can be with the weather. October and April are particularly great months to go on this trek. However the mountain views cannot be guaranteed at any time of year.

Best Months for Different Preferences :

• Best overall conditions – October and November usually have favourable weather and mountain views.
• Rhododendron flowers – March and April are particularly great months to see rhododendrons in full bloom.
• Pleasant temperatures – April and October usually have pleasant temperatures to walk in.
• Fewer people – Early March, late November and winter months can provide a more peaceful trek.
• Green scenery – September can be a great month to go on as the monsoon rains begin to ease.
• Winter scenery – December, January and February provide great opportunities to see snowfall and peaceful mountain villages.

Recommendations by Season :

• Spring (March-May) – March to May is a great time to go on this trek with blooming forests, warmer temperatures and favourable trekking conditions.
• Monsoon (June-August) – Go on this trek with flexibility, waterproof clothing and up to date path information.
• Autumn (September-November) – October and November are preferable. The paths will be relatively dry and mountain views will be clearer.
• Winter (December-February) – Prepare for cold mornings, snowfall and icy stone steps.

Overall, October is often the best month to go on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. April is also an excellent choice due to the rhododendron views. However the weather will vary each year so it is important to check the local forecast.

8. Path Conditions, Preparation and What to Pack for Each Season

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a well established trek with great mountain paths, stone steps and forest paths. It is suitable for beginner trekkers but the steep inclines and declines require good preparation.

Here, the classical route begins from Nayapul (approx. 1070m) or Hile (approx. 1430m) depending on road access. From here trekkers will walk through Birethanti, Tikhedhunga (1540m), Ulleri (approx. 2050m) and Ghorepani (2860-2874m).

Actually, bvetween Tikhedhunga and Ulleri there are thousands of stone steps to climb which can be quite a tough section. From Ghorepani trekkers will then climb up to Poon Hill (3210m) at an early morning. They will then descend back down to Tadapani (2630m) or Ghandruk (1940m).

Likewise, the trek usually takes between 4-5 days to complete and trekkers will walk between 35-45km depending on where they begin and finish their trek. However road extensions can change the distance walked.

Path Conditions by Season

• Spring/Autumn – Paths will be generally dry.
• Summer/Monsoon – Paths will be muddy, stone steps will be slippery and there will be more leeches.
• Winter – Higher areas will be snowy and icy.
• Lower villages – Warmer temperatures and rain can affect the paths around Nayapul, Hile and Tikhedhunga.

Essential Items to Pack for Poon Hill Trek :

• Clothing: Trekking trousers, breathable shirts and thermals
• Outerwear: Waterproof jacket and windbreaker
• Footwear: Comfortable waterproof trekking boots
• Accessories: Gloves, warm hat and trekking socks
• Navigation/First Aid: Headtorch, basic first aid and personal medication
• Hydration: Reusable water bottle and water purification
• Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and sunhat
• Trekking Gear: Trekking poles and comfortable rucksack
• Winter: Extra Thermal jacket and appropriate sleeping bag
• Monsoon: Extra Rain trousers, rain cover for rucksack and leech protection

Preparation by Season :

Spring/Autumn – Pack light layers, comfortable boots and warm clothing.
Monsoon – Pack waterproof items and extra socks as your clothes may get wet from the long rain.
Winter – Pack thermal items, gloves and appropriate footwear.
All Seasons – Pack drinks, sun protection, personal medication and basic first aid.

Important Things to Consider :

• Check road access between Pokhara and 
• Nayapul/Hile or other start points.
• Check the local path conditions.

Allow enough time to walk up and down the steep stone steps and early morning climb to Poon Hill.
Use trekking poles where required.

Consider hiring a licensed local guide to help with the path, accommodation and safety depending on the season.

Note: One can get an access to Ulleri or Banthanti directly from Pokhara during dry seasons ( Autumn and Spring) with Ulleri Jeep Ride from Pokhara.

Overall, by preparing for this trek it will be more comfortable throughout the year. By wearing the correct clothing, having good footwear and up to date path information you will enjoy this beautiful trek through the Annapurna.

If you need help with seasonal arrangements, licensed guides and accommodation please use Haven Holidays Pvt. 

In conclusion, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek can be done any time of the year. Spring and Autumn seasons are generally the best times. Winter can be cold and snowy whereas extra care must be taken during the monsoon season.

9. Conclusion – Best time to go on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a great trek to go on all year round. You will be treated to a variety of landscapes and mountains throughout the various seasons, such as vibrant rhododendron forests during the spring and crystal clear mornings in the mountains during the autumn.

In general, the best time to go on the Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During the spring months you will attract nature lovers due to all the beautiful flowers in bloom. In October and November you will also get great views of the mountains and relatively dry trails.

During the winter months you will have more peaceful trails, peaceful villages and possibly some snowfall around the area of Ghorepani (2860-2874m). However, you will need to be prepared for very cold mornings, potentially icy trails and cold temperatures at Poon Hill (3210m).

If you go during the monsoon months (June-August) you will get beautiful green landscapes and less people but you will also get regular rainfall which can make the trails slippery and less clear in the mountains. It is important to be flexible with your itinerary, wear waterproof clothing and keep up to date with the trails.

Best Time to go on the Poon Hill Trek :

• Spring – Rhododendron forests, vibrant landscapes and generally pleasant temperatures.
• Autumn – Pleasant walking conditions and great opportunities for beautiful sunrise views in the Himalayas.
• Winter – Peaceful trails and potential snowfall. Be prepared for cold weather.
• Monsoon – Beautiful green landscapes. Unpredictable weather and potentially challenging trails.

Ultimately, it depends on what you are looking for, when you are able to go and what weather you prefer. Before going check the local weather, road and trail conditions. Pack appropriate clothing for the season.

If you are planning to go on this beautiful Annapurna adventure we can help you with licensed trekking guides, accommodation, transport and seasonal support. Get in touch with our team to plan your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal.