Ulleri is a fantastic base for exploring Nepal’s Himalayan trails, especially for travelers who want a mix of scenic views, charming villages, and accessible trekking options. While it’s a quiet spot compared to more famous hubs like Pokhara or Kathmandu, Ulleri offers easy access to some of the most stunning parts of the Annapurna region. Among the many experiences available, we particularly enjoy the From Chitwan: 5-Day Poon Hill, Ghandruk Sunrise Trek for its quick, scenic escape into the mountains, and the Ghorepani Poon Hill & Mardi Himal Trek for a longer, more immersive adventure with breathtaking mountain vistas. These options showcase why Ulleri is a hub for both short strolls and serious treks.
Whether you are after a quick trek to witness a spectacular sunrise or a multi-day journey through lush forests and traditional villages, Ulleri’s location makes it an ideal starting point. Its proximity to iconic destinations like Ghandruk and Poon Hill, combined with the variety of trek lengths and difficulty levels, means there’s an experience suited to almost everyone. For those wanting to combine culture with mountain views, options like the Poon Hill Culture Trek & Village Homestays provide deeper insight into local life.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at the ten best tours and experiences you can enjoy around Ulleri, along with practical advice to help you pick the best one for your trip.
- 1. From Chitwan: 5-Day Poon Hill, Ghandruk Sunrise Trek
- 2. From Pokhara: Poon Hill, Ghandruk & Australian Camp Trek
- 3. Ghorepani Poon Hill & Mardi Himal Trek
- 4. Kathmandu: 12-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Guide
- 5. Kathmandu: 5-Day Muldai View Point Trek with Guide
- 6. Khopra Danda Trek – 7 Days
- 7. Pokhara: 3-Day Poon Hill Sunrise Trek with Lady Guide
- 8. Pokhara: 5-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- 9. Pokhara: Dhaulagiri-Annapurna Community Trek 9-Day Tour
- 10. Pokhara: Poon Hill Culture Trek & Village Homestays (4-Day)
- How to Choose Your Ulleri Trek
- Final Thoughts
1. From Chitwan: 5-Day Poon Hill, Ghandruk Sunrise Trek
At number 1 on our list, this short trek offers a perfect Himalayan getaway from Chitwan with just five days of walking. The journey takes you through lush rhododendron forests, charming Gurung and Magar villages, culminating in the awe-inspiring sunrise at Poon Hill. The trek is designed to be accessible and rewarding, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire for a real mountain experience. The highlight, of course, is watching dawn break over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges—a sight that leaves many visitors speechless. The trek’s moderate difficulty means you can enjoy the scenery without needing intense preparation, and the villages along the way give a glimpse into traditional Nepali life. This trip is praised for its stunning vistas and peaceful atmosphere.
Bottom Line: If your time is short but you crave big mountain views and authentic village culture, this trek hits the sweet spot.
2. From Pokhara: Poon Hill, Ghandruk & Australian Camp Trek
Coming in at number 2, this 4-day trek from Pokhara combines some of the best sights in the region—Australian Camp, Ghandruk, and Poon Hill. It’s a well-rounded adventure that balances mountain views with cultural stops. Starting from Pokhara, you’ll hike through forests filled with rhododendron and oak, enjoying the tranquility of the trails. The Australian Camp offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre, making it a favorite overnight stop. Ghandruk is a highlight for its traditional Gurung architecture and vibrant community life, giving visitors a taste of local culture. The final, iconic moment is the sunrise at Poon Hill, where 270-degree mountain panoramas await.
Reviews praise this trip for its varied scenery and manageable pace, especially for those new to trekking. The mix of villages, viewpoints, and nature makes it a perfect short adventure. Expect comfortable teahouses and a friendly atmosphere along the way.
Bottom Line: Designed for travelers who want a balanced trek with cultural insights and stunning mountain vistas, all within four days.
3. Ghorepani Poon Hill & Mardi Himal Trek
In third place, this 8-day trek offers a richer experience in the Annapurna region. It combines the classic Poon Hill sunrise with a trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp, a less crowded alternative to ABC that still rewards trekkers with incredible views. The journey begins with a scenic flight into Pokhara, followed by days walking through rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and alpine meadows. As you ascend, the trail quiets, offering moments of peace and spectacular vistas of Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. The Mardi Himal route is ideal for those wanting a mix of well-trodden paths and some quieter, less touristy trails.
Guides and porters enhance the experience, sharing insights about local flora, fauna, and culture. Critics note that the trek’s length makes it a satisfying challenge, with the reward of staying overnight at charming lodges with mountain views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hikers looking for a longer trek that combines iconic sunrise moments with a more secluded trek to Mardi Himal.
4. Kathmandu: 12-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Guide
Number 4 is a comprehensive 12-day journey that takes you through terraced farmland, lush forests, and alpine valleys to reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Starting from Kathmandu, this trek offers a deep dive into the diverse landscapes of the region. You’ll walk through traditional villages, see terraced fields, and enjoy serenity in mountain forests, all guided by experienced locals. Highlights include the ascent to Poon Hill for sunrise views and the dramatic approach into the Annapurna Sanctuary.
This tour is especially suitable for those wanting a thorough experience with expert guidance, ensuring safety and cultural insights. The longer duration means you can acclimate gradually while soaking in the spectacular scenery. Some reviews mention the value of having a knowledgeable guide who shares stories and local knowledge, enriching the experience. The trek is physically demanding but manageable with proper preparation.
Bottom Line: Best for serious trekkers who want a guided, immersive experience with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and scenery.
5. Kathmandu: 5-Day Muldai View Point Trek with Guide
Halfway through, this 5-day trek focuses on reaching the Muldai View Point for sunrise and panoramic Himalayan vistas. It’s especially suited to those wanting a shorter, more relaxed trek that still offers impressive mountain scenery. The trek passes through charming Gurung villages and blooming rhododendron forests, with comfortable stay options. Guide Kelly, with 25 years of experience, makes the journey informative and enjoyable, sharing local stories and natural insights.
The highlight is the sunrise at Muldai, where views of Annapurna, Fishtail, and Dhaulagiri are unforgettable. The trail is quiet and scenic, making it suitable for those with limited time or less trekking experience. The warm hospitality at tea houses helps make the trip a cozy escape.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a manageable trek with stunning mountain views and cultural charm.
6. Khopra Danda Trek – 7 Days
Coming in at number 6, the Khopra Danda Trek is an excellent 7-day option for those seeking a less crowded trail with dramatic scenery. Starting from Pokhara, trekkers walk through traditional Gurung villages, lush forests, and terraced fields. The highlight is reaching Khayer Lake for sunrise, a pristine spot surrounded by mountains, and the panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri are stunning. Along the way, you’ll stay in comfortable mountain lodges, making the trip accessible and relaxing.
This trek is praised for its scenic beauty and tranquility. It’s perfect for travelers with a moderate fitness level who want a more offbeat experience. The trail’s combination of mountain vistas, cultural stops, and peaceful forests offers a well-rounded adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quieter, scenic trek with the reward of sunrise at Khayer Lake and excellent mountain views.
7. Pokhara: 3-Day Poon Hill Sunrise Trek with Lady Guide
Short but sweet, this 3-day trek from Pokhara is perfect for beginners or those short on time. You’ll hike through lush forests and charming villages, culminating in the sunrise at Poon Hill. Accompanied by a female guide, the trip emphasizes both safety and cultural exchange, making it especially appealing for solo travelers or women. The trip includes guided walks, porter support, and all necessary permits, making logistics straightforward.
The highlight is the early morning view from Poon Hill, where the Himalayas glow in the dawn light. The trip is considered a very manageable trek, with cozy teahouse accommodations and friendly local interaction. It’s an excellent introduction to Himalayan trekking without the physical commitment of longer adventures.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners or those with limited time who still want a taste of Himalayan sunrise magic.
8. Pokhara: 5-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Number 8, this 5-day trek from Pokhara emphasizes the stunning sunrise at Poon Hill and scenic village life. You’ll trek through terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional Gurung villages like Ghandruk. The route provides sweeping views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, with cozy teahouses along the way. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a classic Himalayan experience with enough time to enjoy each stop.
The trek’s highlights include cultural insights, especially in Ghandruk, and spectacular mountain panoramas. The moderate difficulty level and comfortable accommodations make it suitable for most fitness levels. Reviews often mention the warm hospitality of the local hosts and the unforgettable sunrise views.
Bottom Line: An excellent, balanced trek for those wanting a classic Nepalese mountain experience in five days.
9. Pokhara: Dhaulagiri-Annapurna Community Trek 9-Day Tour
Near the top of the list, this 9-day trek offers an offbeat route through quiet villages and ridge walks with views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Starting from Pokhara, it takes you through communities like Ghandruk and remote valleys, with highlights including sunrise at Mohare Danda and spiritual moments at Khair Barahi Lake. This trail is less crowded and offers a more authentic experience of mountain life.
The trek balances scenic beauty with culture, with plenty of chances to learn about local traditions. It’s suitable for capable trekkers looking for a quieter, more contemplative route. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to experience Nepal’s mountain culture away from tourist-heavy routes.
Bottom Line: Best suited for trekkers seeking a less commercial trail with strong cultural and scenic rewards.
10. Pokhara: Poon Hill Culture Trek & Village Homestays (4-Day)
Finally, this 4-day cultural trek emphasizes homestay experiences with local families. You’ll walk through terraced farmlands, visit traditional villages, and learn about daily life in the Himalayas. The highlight is the opportunity to stay with Magar and Gurung families, sharing meals and stories. The trek includes the classic Poon Hill sunrise for a memorable start and allows for a slow, meaningful exploration of local culture.
Reviews praise this trip for its authentic interactions and cozy accommodations. It’s ideal for travelers interested in cultural exchange and a more relaxed pace. Be prepared for some walking on uneven trails, but the warmth of the host families makes it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to combine trekking with culture and village life.
How to Choose Your Ulleri Trek
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick mountain fix, the 5-Day Poon Hill Trek from Chitwan or the 3-Day Poon Hill Sunrise Trek are excellent options. Those looking for a comprehensive experience might prefer the 12-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which offers a deep dive into the region’s varied landscapes.
For travelers seeking culture, the Village Homestay Trek provides authentic interactions with local families, while the Khopra Danda Trek offers quieter trails and stunning sunrise views.
Timing-wise, the best trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is clearest. Remember, booking early guarantees availability, especially for popular trips like the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Final Thoughts
Ulleri’s surrounding trails offer a wide spectrum of Himalayan experiences—whether you want a short scenic hike, a cultural village stay, or a longer trek into the heart of the mountains. For first-timers, the short treks provide stunning views with minimal fuss, while seasoned trekkers can opt for multi-day routes that go deeper into mountain life.
If you’re after a peaceful, authentic trek with fewer crowds, the Khopra Danda or Dhaulagiri-Annapurna Community Trek are excellent choices. For cultural travelers, the village homestay experience offers a meaningful connection to local Nepali life.
No matter which tour appeals most, plan ahead, choose your season carefully, and book early—these Himalayan trails fill fast. Now, it’s time to lace up your boots and start counting the days until those mountain sunrises.