Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Depart Pokhara early morning for the 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul (1,070m), the gateway trailhead for the Annapurna region. From Nayapul, trek approximately 7 km over 3-4 hours through the Modi Khola valley, passing through the charming riverside village of Birethanti (1,025m) with its ACAP checkpoint and stone-paved bazaar, before continuing to Tikhedhunga (1,540m). Total elevation gain: 470m. The trail from Nayapul follows the Modi Khola river through a lush subtropical landscape of terraced rice paddies, mango trees, and banana groves. Local farmers work the fields with hand tools, and children wave from schoolyard fences. Birethanti is worth a short stop — the village straddles the river with a picturesque suspension bridge, craft shops, and a small museum. Beyond Birethanti, the trail narrows and climbs gently through mixed farmland and forest to Tikhedhunga, a small settlement where the famous stone staircase to Ulleri begins. The evening light filters golden through the valley, and the sound of the river provides a soothing backdrop to your first night on the trail. Teahouses in Tikhedhunga are well-run and accustomed to the heavy trekker traffic on this popular route. Rooms are basic with twin beds, clean bedding, and communal bathrooms. Electricity is reliable, charging is inexpensive, and the menus offer everything from dal bhat to fried noodles and pancakes. Order dal bhat — it is the best-value meal on the trail and comes with unlimited refills. Prepare mentally for tomorrow's early start — the stone staircase is the most physically demanding section of the entire trek, but it gets easier after that.