Trek from Tikhedhunga To Ghorepani

One of the most exciting treks in the Annapurna region is the trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani. Due to the beautiful scenery, the trek is an extraordinary journey. The trail from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani is well known for its stunning natural beauty, exploration of different cultures, and passing through diverse landscapes of charming villages. Terraced fields, Lush forests, and High mountain views are the attractions of the trek.

Throughout the trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani, you’ll have an opportunity to Explore the villages that come during the trail, interact with locals, and get a chance to taste the local cuisine. The Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani is more than just a trek; it is a beautiful journey that takes you closer to the Annapurna region and provides a deeper connection with culture and locals. 

Trek Route From Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani is a second-day itinerary for the trekking route in the Annapurna region. Your journey starts from Pokhara to Birethanti. You’ll check in at Birethanti on your first day for a further trip. Annapurna Conservation area permit should be shown at the ACAP office on the Birethanti on the first day. After getting checked in, you’ll move to Tikhedhunga for an overnight stay, and then day two starts. 

Trek Starts from Tikhedhunga

Located at 1480m/ 4855 ft above sea level, Tikhedhunga is a gateway to the different trekking routes in the Annapurna region, including Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani. Tikhedhunga is situated in the heart of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre range and serves as the beautiful trail to reach Ghorepani. Tikhedhunga, surrounded by greenery and terraced fields, attracts trekkers with its peacefulness and traditional beauty.

The views of hills and valleys seen from Tikhedhunga provide company while trekking. Tikhedhunga is the home of the Magar and Gurung people; the village houses’ architecture reflects and provides evidence of the town’s rich cultural heritage. As you walk through the route of Tikhedhunga, you’ll see local people doing their daily activities, where you can also get involved if you are interested. Leaving Tikhedhunga, you’ll cross a suspension bridge and reach Ulleri.

Ulleri Comes in between the Trail

Ulleri is a village you’ll reach after passing Tikhedhunga. Located at an elevation of 1960m/ 6430ft, Ulleri is a Magar village known for its stunning landscapes, traditional architecture, and warm hospitality. Ulleri’s stone paved steps, known as Ulleri Stairs, are a notable feature while trekking in Ulleri. Walking through those stairs may be challenging but rewarding simultaneously with the stunning mountain view, including Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Ulleri is not only the village that comes while trekking from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani; it is a place where you can learn about the Magar community’s way of living and experience their warm hospitality. You’ll get to Banthanti after leaving Ulleri.

Banthanti is Peaceful

Banthanti is a peaceful and calm place that immerses you in nature’s beauty after a tired walk. Situated at an elevation of 2210m/ 7250ft, Banthanti is a place where you can take a break and enjoy the peaceful sound of leaves rustling and the melody of nature. Banthanti serves as a relaxing point and provides awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape.

As you get closer to Banthanti, you’ll feel the fresh air’s freshness, and the smell of the pine trees will be welcoming you. Surrounded by towering peaks and green forests, Banthali made you feel refreshed and ready for the upcoming journey ahead. Upon leaving Banthali, you’ll not only depart with freshmen but also leave with a deeper connection with nature. Following Bhurungdi Khola, you’ll get to Nangge Thanti. 

Nangge Thanti Before Ghorepani

Nangge Thanti is your final point before reaching your destination, Ghorepani. Stands at an elevation of 2430m/ 7972ft, Nangge Thanti is a place where you’ll find peacefulness. Nagge Thanti provides amazing landscapes that combine lush greenery, fresh air, and the musical sound of birds, making the atmosphere peaceful. Nangethanti is not just a place to rest during the trek; it is like a miniature version of the trekking adventure. When you depart from Nangge Thanti, the board at the gate with “Welcome to Ghorepani Poon Hill ” will be welcoming you.

Ghorepani is the Final Destination

After passing through beautiful villages, including Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Banthanti, and Nangge Thanti, the Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani ends once you reach Ghorepani. Situated at 2860m/ 9383 ft, Ghorepani is surrounded by hills, mountains, and lush forest. The last part of the journey to Ghorepani goes through a rhododendron forest, encouraging you to move further. Ghorepani is a famous stop point for the Poon hill trek. The breathtaking panoramic views from Ghorepani provide you with a sense of accomplishment. The village combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, creating a long-lasting memory in your mind and heart. 

The distance you’ll cover upon reaching Ghorepani from Tikhedhunga is approximately 12.9 km/8 miles. Although the time to get to Ghorepani is generally 6-7 hours, the specific time depends upon your pace, the rest you need, and the more you want to interact with locals during the trail. 

Note: From Pokhara, you can go by Jeep till you reach Banthanti, as the road to Banthanti is gravel. You can drive to Banthanti from Pokhara and then start trekking there to reach Ghorepani. 

About Poon Hill Exploration

Upon reaching Ghorepani, every trekker goes to exploration on Poon Hill as Poon Hill is a famous place to get a sunrise view of the Annapurna region. After spending a night at Ghorepani, trekkers go for the Poon Hill sunrise view early in the morning. The main motive to trek on Poon Hill is to get a stunning sunrise view, and the major highlight is when the sun’s rays are getting into the mountain’s peak.

The area will be entirely golden during sunrise, making awe-inspiring views. Mountains including  Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), and Manaslu seen from Poon hill are another highlight of the trekking in Poon Hill.

Most people travel to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani, Jomsom, and Upper Mustang. However, moving forward with Annapurna Base Camp depends on your preference. 

Accommodations during the trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Several teahouses and lodges are found during the trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepanni, but mostly, tea houses are more considered by the trekkers. Although the tea house provides basic facilities, you’ll experience the local way of living there. You’ll have a shared toilet at the tea house with no toilet paper, Wi-Fi, hot shower, or other facilities, which charge extra. Although the tea house provides basic facilities, it also provides a comfortable bed for pleasant sleep. 

Accommodations are mainly in the area where beautiful views can be seen, making your stay more pleasant. Tea houses are strategically built at places where the views of the mountains and surroundings will be clear and seen more nicely. Hence, the accommodations during the Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani are not just places to rest; they are also places to get a stunning view along with rest. These accommodations are more than a place to relax; instead, they hold a significant memory in your journey that can never be forgotten. 

Food Options during the Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani Trek

During the Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani journey, you’ll have options from Nepali to International cuisine. You’ll be provided with Nepali and international cuisine of your choice, but we recommend you get a taste of Nepali cuisine. Nepali cuisine is healthier, provides the essential energy you want, and is less expensive, so consider having Nepali cuisine during your trek.

Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), roti (flatbread), thukpa (Nepali noodle soup), and yak stew are some everyday Nepali dishes you’ll get served at a tea house on your journey. Pasta, pancakes, omelets, and pizza are other choices for your trip. Some tea houses offer Indian, Chinese, and other international cuisine options. Tea, coffee, cold drinks, soda, energy drinks, and hot lemon are beverage options that can be found during the trek. While trekking from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani, the food choices provide a wide range of delicious flavors reflecting the region’s cultural diversity and culinary richness.

The best time to trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani Hills is considered an easy and family-friendly trek. The Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani trek can be undertaken throughout the year, but trekking in some seasons involves more enjoyment and less chance for risk. Autumn and spring are the seasons in which more trekkers are interested.

September to November and March to May are favorable times to trek on Ghorepani due to pleasant weather conditions, moderate temperatures, clear skies with incredible views, and less risk. The Summer and Winter seasons are said to be off-season due to unpredictable weather conditions, risk of landslides, monsoon season, and freezing temperatures. However, trekking season depends on your preference, but remember to check weather conditions before beginning your trek to Ghorepani. 

Trekking gear and equipment

For a comfortable and safe journey, it is necessary to consider trekking gear and equipment carefully. Here are some mandatory gear and equipment for your secure and comfortable trek:

• Trekking Boot and Shocks:

Your trekking boot is your best friend and will be with you wherever you go. So investing your money in waterproof trekking boots with ankle support is necessary to trek on varied terrains, from rocky trails to forested routes; pair boots with moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet from getting wet. 

• Clothing:

For clothing, pack lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers, Insulating layers for warmth, Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants for protection against rain and wind, Hat for sun protection and warmth, Gloves for warmth and high altitudes, Quick-drying hiking pants, Moisture-wicking T-shirts, and Gaiters to protect against dust, rocks, and snow.

• Backpack: 

It’s essential to have a solid and durable backpack with comfortable and adjustable straps. It should have enough space to carry important stuff like water, snacks, and sleeping bags. 

• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad: 

As the weather is unpredictable in mountain regions, carry a sleeping bag and pad for comfortable sleep. 

• Trekking Pole:

Make sure to have a trekking pole. It helps you stay balanced, reduces pressure on your knees, and makes it easier to ascend and descend. 

• First Aid Kit: 

Due to the remote location, there is less chance of having a health center, so consider carrying a basic first aid kit with bandages, blister treatment, personal medicines, and other basic stuff. 

• Water purification tablets and energy-giving snacks:

Staying hydrated is most necessary while trekking in the Himalayas; only in some places do you get mineral water, so consider carrying a refillable bottle and a water purification tablet. To balance nutrition during trekking time, pack some energy-giving snacks. 

• Personal accessories:

Your stuff, including toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, charger, face creams, and hand sanitizer, should remember to pack. 

Physical fitness for this trek

Trekking from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani is relatively easy as the highest point on the trek you reach is 2860m above sea level. This trek is also considered a family-friendly trek, so one with a general level of fitness can complete this trek. No trekking experience is required; even first-time trekkers can also do this trek. Due to reaching less height, you don’t even feel altitude-related problems on this trek. Getting involved in physical exercise before starting the trek is good before starting this trek, but it is not mandatory. 

Unforgettable Part of Trek

During the trek to Ghorepani, you’ll gain lots of experience and get involved in many new things for the first time that can never be forgotten, and you will have a beautiful place in your heart. Among all the unforgettable memories, the region’s nature and beautiful landscape are on the top. 

The lush greenery surrounded by terraced fields and dense forest is your companion throughout the trek. The sound of the river, which provides a background peacefulness, gives another level of calmness during the trek. The melodious voice of birds in the forest chirping is another highlight of the trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani. The beautiful rhododendron forest and tall trees on the last part of the trek give a preview of the fantastic things to see. The mountain views seen during the trial make you forget your difficulties. 

Besides the region’s beauty, interaction with locals is another sweetest memory. The Nepali people are always ready to welcome tourists, and the guests are said to be gods in Nepali culture. In the Annapurna region and Nepal, you’ll be treated nicely wherever you go. On the trek from Tikhdhunga to Ghorepani, you’ll get the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar people. While staying in the tea house, you’ll be served in a hospital manner.

Locals are always ready to share their cultural knowledge with you, which is one of the golden opportunities for you to learn about Nepal’s culture of a different ethnic group. During the trek, you can see local people getting involved in their daily tasks; at the same time, you can also get involved in their tasks and learn some new things there.

Staying in a local tea house is the next level of experience you ever get. During the stay, you’ll feel like a local. Tasting local cuisine and Nepali food also enhances your experience in the Annapurna Conservation area.