Annapurna Panorama Trek – 6 Days
The Annapurna Panorama Trek is a short and scenic 6-day trekking package from Kathmandu. It is perfect for travelers who want Himalayan views in a limited time.
This trek is also known as a short Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk Trek. It gives beautiful sunrise views, Gurung and Magar culture, rhododendron forests, stone steps, and peaceful mountain villages.
The route starts from Kathmandu. First, you travel to Pokhara. Then, you drive toward Ulleri or the nearest road point and trek to Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. After that, you return to Pokhara and then Kathmandu.
The highest point of this trek is Poon Hill at around 3,210m / 10,531ft. It is one of the most famous sunrise viewpoints in the Annapurna region. Current route guides commonly list Poon Hill as the maximum altitude of the Ghorepani Poon Hill route.
The trek lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. Nepal Tourism Board describes the Annapurna region as one of Nepal’s most diverse trekking areas, with short routes and long classic trails.
The Annapurna Panorama Trek – 6 Days is suitable for beginners, families, students, couples, photographers, senior travelers with normal fitness, and short-time visitors.
Why Choose Annapurna Panorama Trek?
The Annapurna Panorama Trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal. It is easy to access from Pokhara. Also, it gives big Himalayan views without going to very high altitude.
This trek is perfect for travelers who want mountain views but do not have time for Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.
The route includes Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. These places offer culture, forest trails, sunrise views, and close mountain scenery.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• A 6-day Annapurna Panorama Trek from Kathmandu
• A short trek in the Annapurna region
• A guided Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk route
• A sunrise hike to Poon Hill
• Views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli
• A cultural trek through Gurung and Magar villages
• A beginner-friendly Nepal trekking package
• A short tea house trek with comfortable lodges
• A scenic trek through rhododendron forests
• A trek suitable for families and first-time trekkers
• A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Annapurna Panorama Trek Highlights
• Start and end the package in Kathmandu
• Travel through Pokhara, the gateway to Annapurna trekking
• Trek to Ghorepani, a famous mountain village
• Hike to Poon Hill at around 3,210m / 10,531ft
• Enjoy sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
• See Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli
• Walk through rhododendron, oak, and pine forests
• Explore Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village
• Experience Gurung and Magar culture
• Stay in local tea houses and mountain lodges
• Enjoy a short and scenic Annapurna trekking route
• Perfect trek for beginners, families, and short-time travelers
Best Time for Annapurna Panorama Trek
The best time for the Annapurna Panorama Trek is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best seasons. The weather is pleasant. Also, rhododendron forests can bloom beautifully.
Autumn, from September to November, is another excellent season. After the monsoon, the sky is often clear. Therefore, mountain views are usually sharp.
Nepal Tourism Board lists March–May and September–November as the best seasons for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Winter is also possible. However, mornings and nights can be cold in Ghorepani and Tadapani.
Monsoon is less recommended. Rain, clouds, leeches, and slippery trails can affect the trekking route.
Annapurna Panorama Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Panorama Trek is an easy to moderate trek.
You do not need climbing skills. However, you should be ready for uphill walking, downhill trails, forest paths, stone steps, and daily walking of around 4 to 6 hours.
The highest point is Poon Hill at around 3,210m. So, the altitude risk is lower than high treks like Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp, or Manaslu Circuit.
Still, you should walk slowly, drink enough water, and follow your guide’s advice.
This trek is suitable for beginners with normal fitness. It is also a good choice for families, students, and travelers who want a short Himalayan trek.
Annapurna Panorama Trek Permits
The Annapurna Panorama Trek lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. So, trekkers need the correct permits.
For this trek, travelers normally need:
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP
• TIMS Card as per current trekking rules
• Licensed trekking guide
• Registered trekking agency support
NTNC’s official e-permit page lists the conservation-area entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included. It also states that the permit is single-entry and must be carried during the trip.
Nepal Tourism Board says specific protected-area trekking routes require trekkers to travel with a licensed trekking guide and carry a trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card. It also lists TIMS charges as NPR 1,000 for SAARC applicants and NPR 2,000 for others.
Your trekking agency should arrange permits, guide, transport, accommodation, and trek support before the journey starts.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
• Day 01: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Ulleri and Trek to Ghorepani
• Day 03: Sunrise Hike to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani
• Day 04: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk
• Day 05: Trek to Kimche / Road Point and Drive to Pokhara
• Day 06: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. You can go by tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight.
If you drive, the route follows rivers, hills, local towns, and countryside views. If you fly, you reach Pokhara quickly.
Pokhara is a beautiful lake city. It is also the main gateway to the Annapurna trekking region.
After arrival, you can rest near Phewa Lake. You can also check your trekking gear for the next day.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
• Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Ulleri and Trek to Ghorepani
After breakfast, you will drive from Pokhara toward Ulleri or the nearest available road point. The drive passes Nayapul, Birethanti, Tikhedhunga, villages, fields, and river valleys.
After reaching the road point, your trek begins. The trail climbs through forest, stone steps, and mountain village areas.
You will continue toward Ghorepani. This village is famous for mountain views and access to Poon Hill.
Ghorepani is a beautiful Magar village. It is surrounded by rhododendron forests and Annapurna region scenery.
• Altitude: Ulleri – approx. 2,050m / 6,725ft
• Altitude: Ghorepani – approx. 2,860m / 9,383ft
• Drive Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 03: Sunrise Hike to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani
Early in the morning, you will hike to Poon Hill. This is the main highlight of the Annapurna Panorama Trek.
From Poon Hill, you can see sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. On a clear morning, the view is very beautiful.
You may see Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and other peaks.
After the sunrise view, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, you will trek through forest trails toward Tadapani.
The route passes rhododendron forests, ridges, and peaceful mountain paths.
• Altitude: Poon Hill – approx. 3,210m / 10,531ft
• Altitude: Tadapani – approx. 2,630m / 8,628ft
• Hike/Trek Time: Poon Hill hike approx. 1.5–2 hours; trek approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk
After breakfast, you will trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk. The trail descends through forests, village paths, and scenic hillsides.
This is a beautiful cultural day. You will leave the forest route and enter one of the most famous Gurung villages in Nepal.
Ghandruk is known for traditional houses, local culture, mountain views, and warm hospitality.
You can explore the village in the afternoon. You may visit the local museum or enjoy views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
• Altitude: Ghandruk – approx. 1,940m / 6,365ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek to Kimche / Road Point and Drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will enjoy a short walk from Ghandruk to Kimche or the nearest road point.
The trail passes village paths, terraced fields, and local homes. This is the final walking section of the Annapurna Panorama Trek.
After reaching the road point, you will drive back to Pokhara. The drive follows rural roads and river valleys.
After arrival in Pokhara, you can rest at your hotel. In the evening, you can walk around Lakeside or relax near Phewa Lake.
• Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 1–2 hours
• Drive Time: Approx. 3–4 hours depending on road condition
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 06: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will return from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You can travel by tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight.
The drive follows river valleys, hills, towns, and rural landscapes. If you fly, the journey is much shorter.
After arrival in Kathmandu, your 6 Days Annapurna Panorama Trek ends.
You can also extend your stay with Kathmandu sightseeing, Chitwan tour, Pokhara extra night, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, or another Nepal trekking package.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Not Included unless extra night is booked
- Inclusions: Breakfast
FAQ
Annapurna Panorama Trek
Is Annapurna Panorama Trek good for beginners?
Yes. Annapurna Panorama Trek is one of the best beginner-friendly treks in Nepal. It has moderate walking days and lower altitude.
How many days is this Annapurna Panorama Trek package?
This is a 6-day Annapurna Panorama Trek package. It starts in Kathmandu and ends in Kathmandu.
How high is Poon Hill?
Poon Hill is around 3,210m / 10,531ft. It is the highest point of this trek and the main sunrise viewpoint.
What is the best time for Annapurna Panorama Trek?
The best time is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These months usually offer better weather and clearer mountain views.
What mountains can I see during the trek?
You can see Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and other peaks.
Is Annapurna Panorama Trek difficult?
It is easy to moderate. The trek includes uphill trails, downhill walking, stone steps, forest paths, and daily walking of around 4 to 6 hours.
Do I need permits for Annapurna Panorama Trek?
Yes. You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and TIMS Card as per current trekking rules. NTNC lists the conservation-area entry fee, while Nepal Tourism Board lists guide and TIMS information.
Do I need a guide for Annapurna Panorama Trek?
A licensed guide is strongly recommended. Nepal Tourism Board says specific protected-area routes require a licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS Card.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation during the trek is in local tea houses and lodges. In Pokhara, accommodation is arranged in a hotel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is recommended. It should cover trekking, medical care, trip delay, and emergency support.
Can families join Annapurna Panorama Trek?
Yes. This trek is suitable for active families. Children should be comfortable walking for several hours daily.
Can senior travelers join this trek?
Yes. Many senior travelers can join with normal fitness and slow pacing. A private trek is best for comfort.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this trek as a private or group joining package.
Can I book a private Annapurna Panorama Trek?
Yes. This trek can be arranged as a private guided package. It can be customized based on your date, budget, fitness level, and group size.
Can I customize this 6-day itinerary?
Yes. You can add Kathmandu hotel, airport transfer, extra Pokhara night, Jhinu hot spring, Landruk village, or Chitwan tour.
Is 6 days enough for Annapurna Panorama Trek from Kathmandu?
Yes. It is possible with road transfers and a guided plan. However, if you want a slower pace, you can make it 7 or 8 days.
An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.