Trekker with milk tea at a teahouse breakfast among blooming rhododendrons, snow peaks behind
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Trekker with milk tea at a teahouse breakfast among blooming rhododendrons, snow peaks behind
Ghorepani Poonhill Wildlife Trek
12 Days Himalayan Trekking & Chitwan Jungle Safari Adventure
Duration
12 Days / 11 Nights
Max altitude
3,210 m
Difficulty
moderate
Category
Trekking
Overview
Itinerary
Inclusions
Route
Dates
FAQs
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Wildlife Trek pairs two of Nepal’s most iconic landscapes into a single, comprehensive 12-day journey. Experience the snow-lit peaks of the Annapurna region followed by an exhilarating jungle safari through the dense Terai floodplains, where the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and diverse bird species thrive.
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu before heading to Charaudi for an exciting white-water rafting experience on the Trishuli River. From Pokhara, you'll venture into the Annapurna foothills, ascending through traditional villages like Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, surrounded by vibrant rhododendron forests. The highlight of the trek is an early-morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) to catch a stunning panoramic sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri.
After descending through Tadapani and the cultural Gurung village of Ghandruk, you will return to Pokhara for lakeside relaxation. The journey then takes you south to Chitwan National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Here, you'll immerse yourself in jungle activities—including a canoe ride down the Rapti River, open jeep/elephant safaris, bird watching, and authentic Tharu cultural performances—before returning to Kathmandu.
Trip highlights
What you'll remember
Iconic Viewpoint (3,210m)
Breathtaking Sunrise Over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri Ranges
River Adventure
Thrilling White-Water Rafting on Trishuli River
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Wildlife Safari & Rhino Sightings in Chitwan National Park
Cultural Heritage
Cultural Immersion & Stone-Paved Trails in Ghandruk Village
Jungle Activity
Peaceful Canoe Ride & Bird Watching Along Rapti River
Wake before dawn to climb Poon Hill at 3,210m for a 360 degree sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre and Nilgiri.
Climb the famous stone stairway above Ulleri, over 3,000 steps cut into the hillside, without a single MRT escalator in sight.
Sleep in Gurung and Tharu villages instead of hotel chains, from ridge top Ghorepani to Ghandruk's stone alleys.
Run the Trishuli River rapids near Charaudi on day 2, a full adrenaline reset before the trekking even begins.
Trade humidity for cold mountain air on the Annapurna trail, then trade it back for Terai heat five days later in Chitwan.
Track one-horned rhinos on a jungle safari through Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Canoe the Rapti River at eye level with gharial crocodiles, then watch a Tharu stick dance performed by the village that has lived alongside this jungle for generations.
Cover mountain, river and jungle terrain in one 12 day trip, so a single block of annual leave does the work of three separate holidays.
Ghorepani Poonhill Wildlife Trek
SGD 1,535
SGD 1,382
10% off
You save SGD 154 per person
per person · 12 Days / 11 Nights
Secure your place with a small deposit
Adults
1 pax · SGD 1,382 each
1
SGD 1,382 × 1 pax
SGD 1,382
Total (1 pax)
SGD 1,382
A deposit secures your booking; balance due before departure.
Nothing is charged now — this sends an enquiry and our team confirms availability.
Your itinerary
Max 1,400 m
30-45 min transfer
Dinner
Arrival in Kathmandu & Welcome Dinner
Max 1,400 m
85 km
3 hour drive
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Charaudi & Trishuli River Rafting
Max 1,540 m
210 km
7-8 hour drive
Breakfast
Drive to Tikhedhunga via Pokhara
Max 2,860 m
12 km
Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
Max 3,210 m
11 km
Breakfast
Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill & Trek to Tadapani
Max 2,630 m
8 km
Trek from Tadapani down to Ghandruk Village
Max 1,940 m
55 km
2-3 hour drive
Drive from Ghandruk back to Pokhara
Max 1,100 m
15 km
1-2 hour drive
Breakfast
Sightseeing Tour in Pokhara & Phewa Lake Boating
Max 820 m
150 km
5-6 hour drive
Breakfast, Dinner
Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan National Park
Max 415 m
10 km
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full Day Chitwan Jungle Safari & Wildlife Activities
Max 1,400 m
175 km
5-6 hour drive
Breakfast, Dinner
Drive back from Chitwan to Kathmandu
Max 1,400 m
30-45 min transfer
Breakfast
Final Departure Day
What's included
What's not included
What's included
Airport pickup & drop transfers by private vehicle
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara with breakfast
Full board resort accommodation in Chitwan (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Teahouse/lodge accommodation during trekking days with breakfast
Experienced English-speaking guide and porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
Chitwan jungle activities (Jeep/Elephant safari, canoeing, bird watching & Tharu cultural show)
All required permits, TIMS cards, and Chitwan National Park entry fees
Necessary trek equipment (Complimentary Sleeping Bag & Duffle Bag)
All government taxes and official paperwork expenses
What's not included
International airfares and Nepal entry visa fees
Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking days ($4–$7 per meal)
Travel and emergency medical insurance
Optional KTM-PKR-KTM flights ($120 USD one way) and Paragliding in Pokhara
Personal expenses such as laundry, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and hot showers
Personal trekking gear and clothing
Tipping for guide, porters, and drivers
Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and personal snacks
The route
The daily itinerary and hotel accommodations are subject to change based on weather conditions, trail circumstances, or safety considerations. Your local guide may adjust the route if necessary to guarantee a safe and enjoyable journey.
Attraction Points
Thamel Heritage Walk
Thamel is Kathmandu's legendary tourist neighborhood, a maze of narrow cobblestone lanes packed with trekking outfitters, traditional music shops, rooftop…
Pokhara Lakeside
Pokhara Lakeside is the tourist heart of Pokhara, Nepal's second-largest city and the most popular destination outside the Kathmandu Valley. The Lakeside area…
Dhaulagiri Circuit
The Dhaulagiri Circuit is one of Nepal's most challenging and remote trekking routes, circumnavigating Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) — the world's seventh-highest…
Phewa Tal Boating
Phewa Lake (Phewa Tal) is the centerpiece of Pokhara and one of Nepal's most beautiful lakes, offering tranquil boating experiences with the dramatic Annapurna…
World Peace Pagoda
The World Peace Pagoda near Lumbini is a gleaming white Japanese-built stupa, one of dozens of peace pagodas constructed around the world by the Japanese…
Davis Falls
Davis Falls, locally known as Patale Chhango (Hell's Fall), is a unique waterfall in Pokhara where the Phusre Khola stream plunges dramatically into a deep…
Everything you need to know.
Good to Know
FAQs
Gear List
Accommodation & Stay
3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basis with breakfast
2 nights resort/hotel stay in Pokhara near Lakeside
2 nights resort stay in Chitwan National Park (Full Board)
4 nights clean teahouse/lodge accommodation during the mountain trek
Meals & Dining
Daily breakfast included at hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) included during Rafting and Chitwan Safari
Breakfast included at teahouse lodges during the trekking days
Welcome and Farewell traditional Nepali dinners in Kathmandu
Transportation & Transfers
Private vehicle airport transfers upon arrival and departure
Tourist bus journey between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan
Scenic private/sharing jeep transfer between Pokhara and Tikhedhunga
Optional domestic flight upgrade available for Kathmandu-Pokhara routes
Permits & Entry Fees
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit
Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card
Chitwan National Park entry fees and activity permits
All government taxes and local official paperwork handled
Trekking Crew & Support
Government-licensed, highly experienced English-speaking trek guide
Dedicated local porters to carry luggage (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
Full salary, insurance, food, and lodging covered for all crew members
Comprehensive briefing and orientation upon arrival in Kathmandu
Is this trip right for you
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Wildlife Trek is HSJ's broadest single itinerary, combining whitewater rafting, Annapurna trekking and a Chitwan jungle safari in 12 days, and it is built for travellers who want variety over a single sustained mountain push. The maximum altitude is 3,210 metres at Poon Hill, well below the 5,000 metre plus treks in the Everest and Annapurna Base Camp regions, so the risk of altitude sickness is low and no acclimatization days are built in.
The trekking days themselves are moderate rather than extreme, 4 to 6 hours of walking with one genuinely demanding stretch, the stone stairway above Ulleri on day 4, which climbs over 3,000 steps without a long flat section to recover on. If you can walk briskly for several hours on consecutive days, this trek is achievable without a dedicated training block.
This trip also asks for two climate adjustments in the space of a week. Nights above Ghorepani drop close to freezing, a real contrast from Singapore's constant heat, while Chitwan on day 9 and 10 returns you to humid, subtropical conditions similar to home. Pack for both.
Because the itinerary mixes trekking, rafting and a wildlife safari, it suits first time trekkers and travellers with limited annual leave who want several distinct experiences from one booking, rather than trekkers seeking a pure high altitude mountain challenge. If that is what you are after, ask our team about the Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks instead.
Know Before You Go
Physical Preparation: This is a moderate 12 day trip with a maximum altitude of 3,210 metres. Regular walking or stair climbing in the 4 to 6 weeks before departure is enough preparation, no high altitude training is required.
Packing Essentials: Layered clothing works best, lightweight and breathable for Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan, with a warm mid layer and jacket for the cold mornings at Ghorepani and Poon Hill. Broken in trekking shoes matter most on the Ulleri stone steps.
Local Infrastructure: Teahouses during the trek offer basic twin rooms with shared bathrooms. Hot showers, charging and WiFi are usually available for a small fee, typically NPR 200 to 400, paid directly to the lodge owner.
Permit Requirements: Your package includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, the TIMS card and Chitwan National Park entry fees. Please provide a copy of your passport and two passport sized photos on arrival in Kathmandu so we can process the paperwork before you leave for Tikhedhunga.
Visas
Singapore passport holders are eligible for a Nepal Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at designated land border entry points.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Nepal and should have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
Travellers can obtain a Visa on Arrival, apply online before departure, or apply through the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Nepal, depending on their preference.
Before travelling, ensure you have:
A valid passport
A completed visa application (online or on arrival)
A recent passport size photograph
A copy of your return or onward travel details, if requested by immigration authorities
The duration of your tourist visa should cover your entire 12 day stay in Nepal. Visa policies and immigration requirements may change without prior notice, so we recommend verifying the latest entry requirements with the Department of Immigration, Nepal before departure.
Rescue & Emergency Support
Our Support
Support Line: +65 80961243
Support Email: travel@hsj.sg
Licensed Trek Leaders: All treks are led by government licensed, experienced guides trained in first aid and emergency response procedures.
Medical Assistance: Your guide carries a first aid kit throughout the trekking section of the trip.
24/7 Assistance: Our operations team is available throughout your journey, across the rafting, trekking and Chitwan safari sections, to provide immediate support for emergencies, itinerary changes or any unexpected travel assistance.
Know Before You Go
Fitness Level: This is a moderate-level trek suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. Expect 4–7 hours of walking per day on mountain trails, including uphill climbs and stone steps.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal seasons for the Poon Hill Sunrise Trek are March–May and September–November when the weather is clear and mountain views are at their best.
Altitude Information: The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill at 3,210 m, and proper acclimatization is not usually required. However, staying hydrated and walking at a comfortable pace is recommended.
Accommodation: Accommodation is provided in local mountain teahouses with basic but comfortable facilities. Rooms are generally twin-sharing with shared bathroom facilities.
Weather Conditions: Mountain weather can change quickly. The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, trail conditions, or safety considerations.
Packing Essentials: Bring comfortable trekking shoes, warm layers, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, personal medication, and basic trekking gear.
Internet & Electricity: Wi-Fi and charging facilities may be available at teahouses for an additional cost. Availability may vary depending on location.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking activities and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.
Local Culture: Respect local traditions, customs, and the environment. Avoid single-use plastics and help preserve the beauty of the Annapurna region.
Responsible Travel: Follow your guide's instructions, support local communities, and leave no trace while trekking through the Himalayas.
Trip Notes
This trek involves moderate walking of approximately 4–7 hours per day on mountain trails.
Good physical fitness and preparation are recommended.
Weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly; itinerary adjustments may occur for safety reasons.
Comfortable trekking shoes and warm clothing are essential.
The best seasons for this trek are March–May and September–November.
Accommodation is provided in local teahouses with basic facilities.
Hot showers and Wi-Fi may be available at an additional cost.
Travelers should carry personal medication and a reusable water bottle.
General
3
What makes the Ghorepani Poonhill Wildlife Trek unique?
This 12-day trip is a unique combination of white-water rafting on the Trishuli River, trekking in the Annapurna region (Poon Hill & Ghandruk), and an exciting wildlife jungle safari in Chitwan National Park. It brings together mountain landscapes, river adventure, and safari wildlife in one journey.
What is the highest altitude reached during this trek?
The highest altitude reached is 3,210 meters (10,531 ft) at Poon Hill. Because the peak elevation is below 3,500 meters, the risk of high-altitude sickness (AMS) is very minimal.
What activities are included during the Chitwan Jungle Safari?
In Chitwan National Park, you will experience a river canoe float on the Rapti River, a jungle safari (jeep/elephant), bird watching, a visit to a Tharu ethnic village, and a evening Tharu cultural dance show.
Trek Overview
7
What makes the Ghorepani Poonhill Wildlife Trek different from a standard Annapurna trek?
This 12 day trip combines three distinct experiences in one booking: whitewater rafting on the Trishuli River, Annapurna foothill trekking through Ghorepani and Poon Hill, and a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park. A standard Annapurna trek covers only the mountain section.
How many days of actual trekking are on this trip?
There are 4 dedicated trekking days, from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani, Ghorepani to Tadapani via Poon Hill, Tadapani to Ghandruk, and the return jeep transfer from Ghandruk. The remaining days cover rafting, driving, sightseeing and the Chitwan safari.
What is the highest altitude reached during this trip?
The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 metres, reached on the morning of day 5. This is well below the altitude of treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp, which is why acclimatization days are not required on this itinerary.
What mountain peaks can I see from Poon Hill?
Poon Hill offers a 360 degree sunrise view over 10 major peaks, including Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Nilgiri and Hiunchuli.
What animals can I expect to see in Chitwan National Park?
Chitwan is home to the endangered one horned rhinoceros, gharial crocodiles, over 500 species of birds, and occasionally deer and wild elephants. Royal Bengal tigers live in the park but are rarely seen, since they are elusive and mostly nocturnal.
Is the Trishuli River rafting suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Charaudi section of the Trishuli River run on day 2 is a grade 3 rapid, suitable for first time rafters, and includes a safety briefing, life jackets and helmets before you start.
Can this trip be done in the reverse order, Chitwan first then trekking?
The standard itinerary runs rafting, trekking, then Chitwan. Reversing the order is possible on request, though it may affect hotel and lodge availability on specific dates, so speak with our team before booking if you need this.
Difficulty & Fitness
5
How difficult is this trek for a first time trekker?
This trip is graded moderate. The most demanding single stretch is the stone stairway above Ulleri on day 4, over 3,000 steps with no long flat section, but most days involve 4 to 6 hours of walking on well established trails. Many of our Chitwan and Ghorepani trekkers are doing their first multi day trek.
Do I need altitude training before this trip?
No. Because the highest point is 3,210 metres, altitude sickness risk is low and no specific altitude preparation is required. Regular cardio and stair climbing in the weeks before departure is sufficient.
What is a typical trekking day like on this route?
You start walking after breakfast around 7am to 8am, walk 4 to 6 hours with a lunch stop on the trail, and reach your teahouse by mid to late afternoon. Day 5 starts before dawn for the Poon Hill sunrise hike.
Can children or older travellers join this trip?
Children above 10 and travellers up to their 60s or 70s in reasonable fitness regularly complete this trip. The main physical demand is the Ulleri stone steps on day 4, so anyone considering the trip with young children or older family members should tell our team in advance so we can advise honestly.
Is a walking pole necessary?
Trekking poles are not compulsory but are strongly recommended for the descent from Tadapani to Ghandruk and the steep sections around Ulleri, where they reduce strain on your knees.
Best Time & Weather
4
When is the best time to do this trek?
February to June and September to December are the best windows. Autumn (September to December) offers the clearest mountain views for Poon Hill, while spring (March to May) adds blooming rhododendron forests along the trail.
What is the weather like in Chitwan compared to the mountains?
Chitwan sits in the Terai lowlands and stays warm and humid year round, closer to Singapore's own climate, while the Annapurna foothill section is noticeably cooler, with near freezing nights at Ghorepani. Expect to pack for both within the same trip.
Is this trek possible during monsoon season, June to August?
It is possible but not recommended. Monsoon rains make the stone steps near Ulleri slippery, reduce visibility at Poon Hill, and can delay road transfers between Pokhara and Chitwan.
How cold does it get at Ghorepani and Poon Hill?
Nighttime temperatures at Ghorepani (2,860m) can drop close to freezing in the cooler months, and it is noticeably colder again at the Poon Hill viewpoint before sunrise. A warm jacket for the early morning hike is essential even though the trip does not go above 3,210 metres.
Permit & Visa
4
What permits are required for this trip and are they included?
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit, the TIMS card, and Chitwan National Park entry fees are all included in your package price and arranged by our team.
Do Singapore passport holders need a visa for Nepal?
Yes. Singapore passport holders can obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, or apply online in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your entry date.
What documents do I need to provide for the trekking permits?
A copy of your passport and two passport sized photographs, provided on arrival in Kathmandu, so our team can process your ACAP and TIMS paperwork before you leave for Tikhedhunga on day 3.
Is travel insurance required for this trip?
Yes. Travel insurance covering trekking, whitewater rafting and jungle safari activities is required. It is not included in the package price and should be arranged before departure.
Packing & Equipment
4
What should I pack for a trip that covers mountains, rafting and jungle?
Layered clothing works best: breathable layers for Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan's warm, humid climate, plus a warm mid layer and jacket for the cold mornings at Ghorepani and the Poon Hill sunrise hike. A quick dry set of clothes for the rafting day is also useful.
Is trekking gear provided or do I need to bring my own?
A sleeping bag and duffel bag are included in your package. Personal items such as trekking boots, a down jacket, and trekking poles are not included and should be brought from home or rented in Kathmandu.
Do I need insect repellent for Chitwan?
Yes. Chitwan's Terai lowlands are humid with active mosquito populations, especially near the Rapti River. Insect repellent and light, long sleeved clothing for the evening jungle activities are recommended.
Are hot showers available during the trek?
Yes, at most teahouses along the Ghorepani route, usually for a small fee of NPR 200 to 400 paid directly to the lodge owner. Showers are not included in the package price.
Travel from Singapore
4
Is there a direct flight from Singapore to Kathmandu?
Yes, there are direct flights between Singapore and Kathmandu on select carriers. Flight time is approximately 4.5 hours.
How many days of annual leave do I need for this trip?
The trip itself runs 12 days, 11 nights. Most Singapore travellers use 12 to 14 days of leave including travel days, depending on flight timing.
What currency should I bring and can I use Singapore dollars in Nepal?
Nepal uses the Nepalese Rupee. Singapore dollars are not widely accepted outside licensed money changers, so we recommend exchanging USD or SGD for NPR in Kathmandu, or using ATMs, which are available in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan but not on the trekking trail.
Will my Singapore mobile plan work throughout this trip?
Local roaming generally works in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. Coverage becomes patchy on the trekking section between Tikhedhunga and Ghandruk, so we recommend a local Nepali SIM if you need reliable data throughout.
Wildlife & Chitwan
4
How likely am I to see a rhino during the jungle safari?
Sightings are common but never guaranteed since these are wild animals in an open national park. Most groups see at least one rhino during the combined jeep or elephant safari and canoe activities across the full day in Chitwan.
Are the elephant activities in Chitwan ethical?
We use licensed elephant breeding centre visits and safari operators that follow Chitwan National Park guidelines. If you have specific concerns about elephant based activities, tell our team in advance and we can adjust the day's activities toward jeep safari, canoeing and bird watching instead.
What is a Tharu cultural show and is it authentic?
The Tharu are the indigenous community of the Chitwan lowlands. The evening cultural show on day 9 features traditional stick dancing performed by dancers from the local Tharu village you walk through earlier that evening, not a staged tourist import.
Is the canoe ride on the Rapti River safe with crocodiles nearby?
Yes. The canoes are paddled by experienced local boatmen who know the river and keep safe distance from basking gharial crocodiles, which are generally passive and fish eating rather than a threat to the boats.
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