Tikhedhunga, Nepal: Complete Travel & Trekking Guide

The sound of rushing water greets you long before you arrive. After a gentle walk up the green Bhurungdi Khola valley, past waterfalls, terraced fields and swaying suspension bridges, the trail leads into a small riverside village tucked between steep forested hills. Teahouses line the path, trekkers stretch their legs on sunny terraces, and just above the rooftops, the first of thousands of stone steps begins its climb toward Ulleri. This is Tikhedhunga, the classic first overnight stop on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and a peaceful place to ease into your Himalayan adventure. This complete guide from Nepal Trip Services covers Tikhedhunga's location, altitude, trekking routes, accommodation, best time to visit and practical tips.

What Is Tikhedhunga?

Tikhedhunga (also spelled Tirkhedhunga) is a small hillside settlement in the Myagdi District of western Nepal, located on the main trekking route between Nayapul and Ghorepani. It sits beside the Bhurungdi Khola river inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, at around 1,480–1,540 metres above sea level.

For decades, Tikhedhunga has been the first night's stop for trekkers starting the Poon Hill loop from Nayapul. It's the last village before the famous stone staircase to Ulleri, making it the perfect place to rest before one of the trek's toughest climbs.

Quick Facts at a Glance

Detail	Information
Location	Myagdi District, Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
Altitude	About 1,480–1,540 m (4,856–5,052 ft)
River	Bhurungdi Khola
Famous For	Gateway to Ulleri's stone steps, riverside scenery, waterfalls
Main Trek Routes	Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani
Nearest City	Pokhara
Distance from Nayapul	About 9–13 km (3–5 hours' walk)
Next Stop	Ulleri (~2,050 m), about 2–3 hours' climb
Accommodation	Around a dozen teahouses and lodges
Permits	ACAP & TIMS Card (checked at Birethanti)
Best Time to Visit	March–May & September–November

Why Stay in Tikhedhunga?

• A gentle first trekking day: The walk from Nayapul is mostly gradual, perfect for warming up your legs.
• Rest before the stone steps: Spending the night here means you tackle the Ulleri staircase fresh in the morning.
• Comfortable altitude: At around 1,500 m, it's a pleasant, warm place to sleep with no altitude concerns.
• Riverside setting: Enjoy the soothing sound of the Bhurungdi Khola and nearby waterfalls.
• Local hospitality: Some lodges are run by retired Gurkha soldiers and their families, offering warm welcomes and fascinating stories.

How to Get to Tikhedhunga

From Pokhara via Nayapul (Classic Route)

Section	Details
Pokhara → Nayapul	About 42 km drive, 1–1.5 hours
Nayapul → Birethanti	Short walk; ACAP & TIMS checkpoint
Birethanti → Sudame → Hile → Tikhedhunga	Gradual walk along the Bhurungdi Khola
Total Trekking	About 9–13 km, 3–5 hours

The trail leaves the road head at Nayapul, crosses the Modi Khola to Birethanti, then follows the Bhurungdi Khola upstream through farming villages like Lamdawali and Sudame. After a short climb to Hile (~1,430–1,510 m), a pleasant shaded walk past small waterfalls leads to Tikhedhunga.

By Jeep

Jeeps can reach Hile and beyond on a rough road, shortening the walk. Many modern itineraries now drive directly to Ulleri, skipping Tikhedhunga entirely to save time.

Trail Highlights Between Nayapul and Tikhedhunga

• Birethanti: A riverside village and the first permit checkpoint
• Bhurungdi Khola: A sparkling river with pools and cascades
• Suspension bridges: Prayer-flag-covered bridges over rushing water
• Terraced fields: Rice and millet terraces carved into the hillsides
• Waterfalls: Small cascades tumbling down the valley walls
• Village life: Farmers, mule caravans and children on their way to school

The Climb to Ulleri: What Comes Next

Just above Tikhedhunga, the trail turns into a steep stone staircase, climbing about 500 metres to the Magar village of Ulleri. Estimates of the number of steps vary, with many sources citing around 3,300.

Detail	Information
Route	Tikhedhunga → Ulleri
Elevation Gain	About 500 m
Duration	2–3 hours
Difficulty	The steepest section of the Poon Hill Trek

Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, use trekking poles and take regular short breaks.

Where to Stay in Tikhedhunga

Tikhedhunga has about a dozen teahouses spread along the trail, many beside the river.

Facility	Details
Rooms	Simple twin-sharing rooms with beds and blankets
Bathrooms	Shared or attached, depending on the lodge
Hot Showers	Usually available (solar or gas), sometimes for a small fee
Wi-Fi & Charging	Available in most lodges, often for a small fee
Dining	Warm communal dining halls and outdoor terraces
Room Cost	From around USD 6 per night (often low if you eat at the lodge)

Because of its lower altitude, Tikhedhunga is usually warmer and more comfortable than villages higher up the trail.

Food in Tikhedhunga

Teahouses serve fresh meals to fuel your next day's climb:

• Dal bhat with free refills
• Momo, fried rice and chow mein
• Pasta, soups and curries
• Tibetan bread, pancakes and eggs for breakfast
• Fresh seasonal fruit where available
• Masala tea, lemon tea and coffee

Tip: A hearty dal bhat dinner and a good breakfast are the best preparation for the Ulleri staircase.

Weather & Best Time to Visit Tikhedhunga

Season	Months	Day / Night (Approx.)	Conditions
Spring	March – May	20–28°C / 10–15°C	Warm days, blooming flowers higher up
Monsoon	June – August	24–30°C / 18–22°C	Heavy rain, leeches, slippery steps
Autumn	September – November	18–25°C / 10–15°C	Clear, pleasant weather; best season
Winter	December – February	12–18°C / 3–8°C	Cool but dry and comfortable

Best overall: October–November and March–April.

Permits Required

Tikhedhunga lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you'll need:

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
• TIMS Card

Permits are checked at Birethanti before reaching Tikhedhunga. Our trek packages include both.

Sample Itineraries Including Tikhedhunga

Classic 4-Day Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara

1. Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
2. Tikhedhunga → Ulleri → Ghorepani
3. Poon Hill sunrise → Tadapani
4. Tadapani → Ghandruk → Pokhara

Shorter Jeep-Assisted Version

Our 7-day Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu drives directly to Ulleri, skipping Tikhedhunga and the stone steps. If you'd prefer the classic experience with a night in Tikhedhunga, we can easily customise your itinerary.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry enough cash from Pokhara, as there are no ATMs.
• Keep your permits handy for the Birethanti checkpoint.
• Wear sun protection, as the lower valley can be hot.
• Use insect repellent, especially in the warmer months.
• Watch for leeches during the monsoon.
• Give way to mules by stepping to the uphill side of the trail.
• Drink treated water using purification tablets or a filter bottle.
• Rest well before tackling the Ulleri stone steps.

Nearby Attractions

• Birethanti: Riverside village and permit checkpoint
• Hile: Small village just below Tikhedhunga
• Ulleri: Magar village at the top of the stone steps, with Annapurna South views
• Ghorepani: Base for the Poon Hill sunrise
• Poon Hill (3,210 m): Famous viewpoint over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna
• Ghandruk: Traditional Gurung village with the Gurung Museum

Explore More with Nepal Trip Services

Tikhedhunga is a classic stop on the Poon Hill route. Experience it on a customised Poon Hill Trek, or explore more adventures in the Annapurna Region, including the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek. Plan your perfect journey with our Trip Planner.

Tikhedhunga, Nepal: FAQs

1. Where is Tikhedhunga located?

Tikhedhunga is a small village in Myagdi District of western Nepal, inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. It lies beside the Bhurungdi Khola on the trekking route from Nayapul to Ghorepani. It's the last village before the famous stone steps to Ulleri. Pokhara is the nearest city.

2. What is the altitude of Tikhedhunga?

Tikhedhunga sits at around 1,480–1,540 metres (4,856–5,052 ft) above sea level. Different sources give slightly different figures depending on where they measure. It's a low and comfortable altitude for the first night of a trek. Altitude sickness isn't a concern here.

3. How do I get to Tikhedhunga?

Drive about 1–1.5 hours from Pokhara to Nayapul, then trek for around 3–5 hours via Birethanti, Sudame and Hile. The trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola and is mostly gentle. Jeeps can also travel part of the way on a rough road. It's the classic first day of the Poon Hill Trek.

4. How far is Tikhedhunga from Nayapul?

Tikhedhunga is about 9–13 km from Nayapul, depending on the exact route. The walk usually takes 3–5 hours. Much of the trail is gradual, with a short climb near Hile. It's an easy introduction to trekking in Nepal.

5. How far is Ulleri from Tikhedhunga?

Ulleri is about 2–3 hours' walk above Tikhedhunga. The trail climbs steeply on stone steps, gaining around 500 metres. This is often considered the toughest part of the Poon Hill Trek. Walking slowly and resting often makes it manageable.

6. Is there accommodation in Tikhedhunga?

Yes, Tikhedhunga has around a dozen teahouses offering simple rooms, meals and basic facilities. Many have riverside settings or sunny terraces. Some lodges are run by retired Gurkha soldiers and their families. Rooms are generally affordable, especially if you eat at the lodge.

7. Why do trekkers stay in Tikhedhunga?

Trekkers stay in Tikhedhunga to break up the first day and rest before climbing the stone steps to Ulleri. Its low altitude makes it warm and comfortable. The riverside setting is peaceful and scenic. Staying here helps you start the steep climb fresh in the morning.

8. Can I skip Tikhedhunga?

Yes, many itineraries now drive directly to Ulleri by jeep, skipping Tikhedhunga and most of the stone steps. This saves time and energy for shorter treks. However, you'll miss the riverside walk and village atmosphere. Your trekking company can tailor the route to your preference.

9. Do I need permits to visit Tikhedhunga?

Yes, you need an ACAP permit and a TIMS card, since Tikhedhunga lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Permits are checked at Birethanti on the way. Trekking companies usually arrange them in advance. Always keep your permits with you.

10. What is the best time to visit Tikhedhunga?

The best times are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). These seasons bring pleasant temperatures and clear weather. Winter is cool and dry, while the monsoon brings rain, leeches and slippery trails. Tikhedhunga's low altitude keeps it mild year-round.

11. Is Tikhedhunga suitable for beginners?

Yes, Tikhedhunga is ideal for beginners. The walk from Nayapul is gentle and gives you time to adjust to trekking. The low altitude makes nights comfortable. It's a great introduction before the more demanding climb to Ulleri.

12. Are there ATMs or shops in Tikhedhunga?

There are no ATMs in Tikhedhunga, so bring enough cash from Pokhara. Teahouses and small shops sell snacks, drinks and basic supplies. Prices are slightly higher than in the city. Plan ahead for any personal items.

13. Is there Wi-Fi and mobile signal in Tikhedhunga?

Most teahouses offer Wi-Fi, often for a small fee, and mobile coverage is usually available. Connections may be slow at times. Charging is available in most lodges. A power bank is still useful as a backup.

14. What can I see along the trail to Tikhedhunga?

Along the way, you'll see the Bhurungdi Khola river, waterfalls, terraced fields and traditional villages. Prayer-flag-covered suspension bridges add to the scenery. Mule caravans and local farmers give a glimpse of rural life. It's a scenic and cultural start to your trek.

15. Which treks pass through Tikhedhunga?

Tikhedhunga lies on the classic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route from Nayapul. It's also used on Annapurna Base Camp treks that go via Ghorepani and Poon Hill. Some longer Annapurna routes pass through as well. It's a well-known stop for trekkers heading into the Annapurna foothills.

Final Thoughts

Tikhedhunga may not have towering mountain views or famous monuments, but it plays an important role in many trekkers' journeys. Nestled beside the rushing Bhurungdi Khola, this peaceful riverside village is where the Poon Hill adventure truly begins, a place to rest, recharge and enjoy warm hospitality before the climb toward the Himalayas. The gentle walk from Nayapul, the sound of waterfalls and the friendly teahouse atmosphere make it a memorable first night on the trail.

Whether you stay overnight before conquering the Ulleri stone steps or pass through on a longer Annapurna trek, Tikhedhunga offers a welcome slice of rural Nepali life. For a safe, well-organised trek with experienced local guides, Nepal Trip Services will help you plan the perfect route through Tikhedhunga and beyond.