left-curve
right-curve
bg-image

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service


Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Ask any experienced Poon Hill trekker about the Ulleri stone steps, and watch their eyes go wide. More than 3,300 stone steps rise steeply from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri — a knee-punishing, lung-testing climb that many trekkers describe as the hardest two hours on the entire Ghorepani–Poon Hill circuit. For years, there was no choice but to climb every single step on foot.

That has all changed. Thanks to road development in the Annapurna foothills, a 4WD jeep can now reach Ulleri directly from Pokhara — skipping those legendary stone steps entirely and placing you at 1,960 meters in just 2.5 to 3.5 hours. This is genuinely game-changing for families with children, older trekkers, time-limited visitors, and anyone who wants to start their Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp trek with energy rather than exhaustion.

This complete 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about the Pokhara to Ulleri jeep service — route details, costs, road conditions, the best stopping points, permit requirements, onward trek options, and why Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd is the most reliable jeep hire partner for this exciting off-road journey.

 

Ulleri — A Village at the Gateway of Poon Hill

Ulleri is a traditional Magar community village situated at an elevation of 1,960 meters (6,430 ft) in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Kaski District. One of the largest Magar settlements in the Annapurna foothills, Ulleri has long been a key waypoint on the Ghorepani–Poon Hill trekking route — the overnight rest stop after the notorious stone step ascent from Tikhedhunga.

The Magar people of Ulleri have strong ties to Nepal’s Gurkha military tradition and maintain a deeply rooted culture of warm hospitality, traditional stone-built houses, and age-old farming practices on the terraced hillsides above the Modi Khola valley. From Ulleri, the Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks fill the northern horizon in an extraordinary panorama.

  • Altitude: 1,960 m (6,430 ft) above sea level
  • District: Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Annapurna Conservation Area
  • People: Magar community — Gurkha heritage, warm hospitality, traditional culture
  • Mountain Views: Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Machhapuchhre / Fishtail (6,993 m)
  • Famous For: Gateway to Ghorepani and Poon Hill; the legendary 3,300+ stone step ascent from Tikhedhunga
  • Trek Connections: Ghorepani–Poon Hill Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Tadapani–Ghandruk Loop
  • Facilities: Tea houses, guesthouses, basic dining, stunning mountain viewpoints

 

Key Facts at a Glance — Pokhara to Ulleri 2026

 

DetailInformation
Total Distance48–52 km (Pokhara to Ulleri)
Ulleri Altitude1,960 m (6,430 ft) above sea level
Travel Time by Private Jeep2.5 to 3.5 hours total
Pokhara to Nayapul42 km | 1 hour | Paved Beni Baglung Highway
Nayapul to Hile / Tikhedhunga6 km | 45 min | Rough off-road track
Hello to Ulleri4 km | 30–45 min | Very rough, steep — 4WD essential
4WD Required?Mandatory from Nayapul onward
Famous Stone Steps BypassedYes — jeep skips the legendary 3,300+ stone steps to Ulleri
Best Season for JeepOctober to February (dry season) — road not passable in heavy monsoon
Permits RequiredACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) + TIMS Card
Trek ConnectionsGhorepani–Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Tadapani–Ghandruk Loop

 

The Big Advantage: Hiring a jeep from Pokhara to Ulleri saves you the famous 3,300+ stone step climb from Tikhedhunga — approximately 2 hours of steep, knee-straining ascent that many trekkers find the most demanding section of the entire Poon Hill circuit. You arrive at Ulleri rested, ready, and with your knees intact for the real mountain trekking ahead.

 

The Route — Pokhara to Ulleri Step by Step

The Pokhara to Ulleri jeep route follows a clear two-phase journey: a smooth paved highway for the first 42 km, followed by a progressively rougher off-road mountain track for the final 10 km. Here is the complete route breakdown:

 

StopDistance from PokharaAltitudeRoad TypeKey Notes
Pokhara (Lakeside)Start827 mCity roadsDeparture point — hotel pickup available
Naudanda / Kande28 km1,440 mPaved highwayPanoramic Annapurna views — photo stop
Nayapul42 km1,070 mPaved highwayClassic ABC trek start, bus stop junction
Birethanti44 km1,025 mPaved → roughACAP checkpoint, Modi Khola riverside
Hile / Tikhedhunga47 km1,480 mRough off-roadCommon stopping point; walk option to Ulleri
Ulleri50–52 km1,960 mVery rough 4WD trackMagar village, Poon Hill gateway, stone steps start.

 

Phase 1 — Pokhara to Nayapul via Beni Baglung Highway (42 km, 1 hour)

Leaving Pokhara, the jeep follows the Beni Baglung Highway southward through the Modi Khola valley. The road is fully paved and in good condition — one of the better-maintained provincial highways in the Gandaki region. The journey passes through Naudanda and Kande, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna massif on clear mornings, before descending toward Nayapul.

  • Pokhara Lakeside → Naudanda / Kande (28 km, 40 min): Climbing hilltop with sweeping Annapurna Range views — prime photography stop
  • Kande → Nayapul (14 km, 20 min): Descending into the Modi Khola valley through terraced farmland
  • Nayapul → Birethanti (2 km, 5 min): Riverside village junction — ACAP checkpoint and permit inspection

Phase 2 — Nayapul / Birethanti to Hile / Tikhedhunga (~6 km, ~45 min)

Beyond Birethanti, the paved road gives way to a rough gravel-and-earth track that follows the Modi Khola upstream. This is where the off-road adventure begins. The track is manageable for a 4WD jeep, but noticeably rougher than the highway. Views of the river gorge and terraced hillsides become increasingly dramatic as altitude increases.

  • Birethanti → Sudame: 3 km, 20–25 min — riverside track, initial off-road transition
  • Sudame → Hile / Tikhedhunga: 3 km, 20 min — steeper track, Modi Khola views, first mountain settlement

Phase 3 — Hile / Tikhedhunga to Ulleri (4 km, 30–45 min)

The section from Hile (Tikhedhunga) to Ulleri is the most challenging and exciting part of the entire jeep journey. The road is very rough, narrow, and steep — requiring genuine 4WD capability, low-range gear engagement, and an experienced driver. This section bypasses the famous 3,300+ stone steps that trekkers climb on foot between Tikhedhunga and Ulleri.

  • Hile / Tikhedhunga → Ulleri: 4 km, 30–45 min — extremely rough, rocky track, steep switchbacks, dramatic views

Important Distinction: Hile (also called Tikhedhunga) and Ulleri are different points on the route. Hile is at 1,480 m; Ulleri is at 1,960 m. Some jeeps stop at Hile rather than attempting the very steep Hile-to-Ulleri section. From Hile to Ulleri on foot takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, still saving most of the stone steps. Confirm with your driver whether they will attempt the full drive to Ulleri or stop at Hile.

Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd’s experienced drivers assess road conditions on arrival at Hile and reach the closest accessible point to Ulleri village — maximizing the value of your jeep service.

 

All Jeep Service Options — Pokhara to Ulleri 2026

Here is a complete comparison of all transport options for reaching Ulleri from Pokhara:

Service TypeCapacity2026 Cost (approx.)Notes
Private Jeep — Pokhara to Ulleri4–7 passengersUSD 100–150 (full vehicle)Best — hotel pickup, flexible, direct
Private Jeep — Pokhara to Hile4–7 passengersUSD 80–120 (full vehicle)Slightly cheaper; 30-min walk to Ulleri
Private Jeep — Nayapul to Ulleri4–7 passengersUSD 70–90 (full vehicle)Take the local bus to Nayapul first
Shared Jeep — Pokhara to UlleriPer seat (7–9 total)USD 15–20 per personFrom Baglung Bus Park, fill-and-go
Shared Jeep — Nayapul to UlleriPer seatUSD 10–15 per personAvailable at Nayapul / Birethanti
Local Bus — Pokhara to NayapulMany passengersNPR 200–300 per personThen walk or shared jeep to Ulleri

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Private Jeep — Pokhara to Ulleri (Best Option)

A private 4WD jeep (Mahindra Scorpio, Toyota Hilux, or similar) hired directly from Pokhara to Ulleri is the gold standard for this route. You get door-to-door hotel pickup from anywhere in Pokhara, complete flexibility to stop at viewpoints along the Beni Baglung Highway, and the most direct and comfortable route to Ulleri, with no vehicle transfers.

  • Vehicle types: Mahindra Scorpio 4WD, Toyota Hilux 4WD
  • Capacity: 4–6 passengers comfortably; up to 7 with minimal luggage
  • 2026 Cost: USD 100–150 for the full vehicle (one way — driver, fuel, tolls included)
  • Travel time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Pokhara to Ulleri
  • Pickup: Door-to-door from your hotel in Lakeside or anywhere in Pokhara
  • Advantage: No transfers, no waiting, hotel pickup, complete itinerary flexibility

Per-Person Value: With a group of 6 sharing a private jeep for USD 120, the per-person cost is just USD 20 — barely more than a shared jeep, yet with massive advantages in comfort, convenience, and service.

Private Jeep — Pokhara to Hile (Budget Alternative)

A slightly more economical option is to hire a private jeep from Pokhara to Hile (Tikhedhunga), then walk the 1.5 to 2 hours uphill from Hile to Ulleri. This avoids the most challenging jeep section (Hile to Ulleri) while still saving approximately 1.5 hours of the Nayapul-to-Hile walking section.

  • 2026 Cost: USD 80–120 for full vehicle hire from Pokhara to Hile
  • Walking from Hile to Ulleri: ~1.5 to 2 hours on foot — significantly less demanding than the full stone step climb from Tikhedhunga on the traditional trekking route
  • Best for: Trekkers who want to save money but still skip the worst of the lower approach walking

Shared Jeep — Budget Option for Solo Travelers

Shared jeeps depart from Baglung Bus Park in Pokhara on an irregular fill-and-go schedule. In peak season (October–November and March–May), shared jeeps are relatively easy to find. During the off-season, availability is more limited.

  • 2026 Cost: USD 15–20 per person from Pokhara to Ulleri
  • Departure: Baglung Bus Park, Pokhara — no hotel pickup
  • Departure time: Early morning (6:30–8:00 AM) — departs only when vehicle is full
  • Travel time: 3 to 4 hours (additional stops en route)
  • Limitation: Crowded seating with 7–9 passengers; limited luggage space; no flexibility in stops or schedule

Local Bus to Nayapul + Shared Jeep to Ulleri

The most budget-friendly combination — a local bus from Pokhara to Nayapul, followed by a shared jeep from Nayapul or Birethanti to Ulleri.

  • Local bus Pokhara to Nayapul: NPR 200–300 per person (from Baglung Bus Park)
  • Shared jeep Nayapul to Ulleri: USD 10–15 per person
  • Total cost: Approximately USD 12–17 per person
  • Total time: 3.5 to 5 hours with waiting time
  • Best for: Solo budget backpackers who are comfortable managing their own logistics in Nepal

 

Road Conditions — Pokhara to Ulleri

Pokhara to Nayapul — Beni Baglung Highway

The Beni Baglung Highway is a well-maintained two-lane paved road in good overall condition. It is easily manageable for all vehicle types, including standard cars and Hiace vans. Road improvements have been ongoing in this section, and the surface quality is consistently good throughout the year.

Nayapul to Hile / Tikhedhunga — Off-Road Track

Beyond Nayapul, the tarmac gives way to a rough gravel track that follows the Modi Khola river upstream. The road is narrow — wide enough for one vehicle with passing places for two vehicles to maneuver. It is manageable for 4WD jeeps throughout the dry season (October–May), but can become muddy and difficult to navigate after heavy rain. This section requires 4WD traction and a driver experienced in narrow off-road mountain tracks.

Hile to Ulleri — The Steepest Section

This is the most technically demanding section of the Pokhara-Ulleri jeep route. The road is extremely steep, rocky, and very narrow — in some sections only slightly wider than the vehicle itself. Ground clearance is critical. The driver must engage low-range 4WD and navigate carefully around large rocks and tight switchbacks. In good, dry conditions, an experienced driver in a well-maintained Scorpio or Hilux can reach Ulleri without difficulty. In wet or monsoon conditions, this section can become impassable.

Season-by-Season Road Conditions

SeasonMonthsRoad ConditionJeep Accessible?Recommendation
Post-Monsoon / AutumnOct – NovDry, goodYes — best conditionsBest — crystal clear mountain views
WinterDec – FebDry, coldYes — dusty gravelGood — quiet trails, fewer tourists
SpringMar – MayMostly dryUsually yesGood — rhododendron forests in full bloom
MonsoonJun – SepMuddy, dangerousOften NOAvoid the jeep to Ulleri — landslide risk

Monsoon Season (June–September): The Nayapul to Ulleri off-road track is highly susceptible to landslides, mudslides, and track damage during heavy monsoon rainfall. The Hile to Ulleri section, in particular, becomes dangerous and is often completely impassable during the peak monsoon season. Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd monitors daily road conditions and will proactively advise you if jeep service to Ulleri is not possible on your planned travel date. The dry season (October to February) is the recommended period for jeep service to Ulleri.

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Why Take a Jeep to Ulleri? — The 3,300 Stone Steps Question

This is the question every Poon Hill trekker faces: should I walk from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri on the traditional route, or hire a jeep?

The traditional trekking route from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri follows a famous (or infamous) stone staircase of more than 3,300 steps, rising approximately 500 vertical meters in about 2 hours. It is one of the most demanding short climbs on any Nepal trekking trail — steep, unrelenting, and exhausting, especially under the weight of a full trekking pack in warm conditions.

Strong Reasons to Take the Jeep

  • Save 2 hours of steep climbing before your trek even properly begins — arrive at Ulleri with full energy reserves for the days ahead.
  • Ideal for older trekkers or those with knee, hip, or joint concerns — the stone step descent on the return is equally punishing.
  • Perfect for families with young children — carrying children or keeping them motivated on 3,300 steps is genuinely difficult.
  • Time-efficient — particularly valuable for 2-day express Poon Hill itineraries where every hour matters
  • Heavy trekking luggage is much safer on a jeep roof rack than being carried on steep stone steps.
  • The jeep ride itself is a thrilling off-road adventure — the views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and the Modi Khola gorge from the jeep track are spectacular.

When Walking is the Better Choice

  • If you have 4+ days for the Poon Hill circuit, the traditional walking route from Nayapul offers the complete trekking experience — riverside paths, village culture, and the satisfying sense of earning the altitude
  • The stone step climb, while demanding, is also a remarkable cultural experience — passing through Magar villages, meeting local porters, and experiencing the rhythm of traditional Himalayan trekking
  • During monsoon season, when the jeep road is unreliable, walking is the only option, and the trail is lush and vibrantly green

Treks Accessible from Ulleri

 

Trek / DestinationFrom UlleriDurationHighlights
Ghorepani VillageUlleri (start)4–5 hrs walkRhododendron forests, mountain lodges
Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 m)Via Ghorepani+45 min from GhorepaniBest Himalayan panorama in the Annapurna region
Banthanti VillageUlleri (1 hr)1 hour above UlleriForest tea houses, green valley views
Ghandruk Loop (via Tadapani)Via Ghorepani2–3 day loopClassic Annapurna circuit loop trek
Annapurna Base CampVia Ghorepani + Chhomrong6–8 days totalFull ABC journey from Ulleri
Mulde / Dobato ViewpointVia Ghorepani2–3 day optionOff-beat panorama, Dhaulagiri views

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Ghorepani and Poon Hill (3,210 m) — The Primary Destination

From Ulleri, the trail climbs north through the charming village of Banthanti (2,250 m) and the cool rhododendron and oak forests above, reaching Ghorepani (2,870 m) in approximately 4 to 5 hours. Ghorepani is the overnight base for the famous Poon Hill sunrise hike. At 3:30–4:30 AM the following morning, trekkers make the 45-minute climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to witness one of the most celebrated Himalayan panoramas on earth — a 180-degree arc of peaks including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), all lit by the rising sun in shades of gold and pink.

Banthanti Village (1 Hour Above Ulleri)

Just one hour above Ulleri, Banthanti is a small but charming village of tea houses set in dense forest. The transition from open terraced farmland to cool montane forest happens between Ulleri and Banthanti — a beautiful transformation that signals your genuine entry into the high Annapurna foothills. Many trekkers on 2-day itineraries push through Banthanti to Ghorepani in a single day.

Ghorepani to Tadapani – Ghandruk Loop (3 Days)

One of the most rewarding loop treks in the Annapurna region combines the Poon Hill sunrise with a traverse from Ghorepani to Tadapani and descent to Ghandruk village before returning to Pokhara by jeep. After the sunrise at Poon Hill, trekkers cross the ridge to Tadapani (2,630 m) — a beautiful traverse through rhododendron forests — then descend to the Gurung village of Ghandruk (1,940 m) with its cobblestone lanes and magnificent Annapurna South views. From Ghandruk, a jeep returns to Pokhara. This loop avoids retracing the same route and is widely regarded as the finest 3–4 day trekking circuit in the western Annapurna foothills.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek (Via Ghorepani and Chhomrong)

For trekkers with 7 to 9 days available, Ulleri serves as a starting point for the full Annapurna Base Camp Trek. From Ghorepani, the route continues to Tadapani, Chhomrong, and the Annapurna Sanctuary — the glacial amphitheater surrounded by Annapurna I, II, III, IV, South, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre — before returning via Jhinu Danda and Nayapul to Pokhara. Starting this trek from Ulleri by jeep saves one full day of walking on the lower approach.

 

Permits Required — Pokhara to Ulleri 2026

The Ulleri area falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Two mandatory permits are required and inspected at the ACAP checkpoint in Birethanti:

ACAP — Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

  • Cost: NPR 3,000 per person for foreign nationals (approximately USD 22 — verify current rate before travel)
  • SAARC nationals: NPR 200 per person
  • Where to obtain: Nepal Tourism Board office in Lakeside, Pokhara, or Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu — OR at the Birethanti checkpoint
  • Inspected at: Birethanti ACAP checkpoint (mandatory vehicle stop) and multiple points on the trail

TIMS Card — Trekkers’ Information Management System

  • Cost: Approximately USD 10–20 per person for foreign nationals
  • Where to obtain: Nepal Tourism Board or TAAN office in Lakeside, Pokhara, or Thamel, Kathmandu

The Pokhara-to-Ulleri jeep service offers an efficient 2-day Poon Hill experience that has become increasingly popular among time-limited travelers. Here is the recommended 2-day itinerary:

Day 1 — Pokhara to Ulleri by Jeep, Trek to Ghorepani

  • 7:00 AM: Depart Pokhara by private jeep — hotel pickup in Lakeside
  • 7:30 AM: Photo stop at Kande / Naudanda viewpoint — Annapurna Range panorama
  • 9:00 AM: Arrive Birethanti — ACAP permit check, brief rest stop
  • 9:30–10:00 AM: Arrive Ulleri (1,960 m) — start trek
  • Trek: Ulleri → Banthanti (2,250 m) → Nangethanti → Ghorepani (2,870 m) — approximately 4 to 5 hours walking
  • 2:30–3:30 PM: Arrive Ghorepani — check into tea house, rest, explore village
  • Evening: Tea house dinner, early bedtime — Poon Hill sunrise requires a 4:30 AM start

Day 2 — Poon Hill Sunrise, Trek Return to Ulleri, Jeep to Pokhara

  • 4:30–5:00 AM: Wake up and hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) — approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
  • 6:00–6:30 AM: Sunrise panorama — Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre in morning light
  • 7:30 AM: Return to Ghorepani for breakfast
  • 8:30 AM: Begin descent — Ghorepani → Nangethanti → Banthanti → Ulleri
  • 11:00–11:30 AM: Arrive Ulleri — board jeep for return to Pokhara
  • 1:30–2:00 PM: Arrive Pokhara — afternoon free

This 2-day itinerary is the most efficient way to experience the Poon Hill sunrise and return to Pokhara in a single overnight trip — perfect for travelers with limited time or those combining Poon Hill with other Nepal experiences.

 

What to Pack for the Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Journey

  • ACAP permit and TIMS card: Easily accessible in your day bag — inspected at Birethanti checkpoint
  • Trekking boots: The trail above Ulleri is rocky and uneven — proper footwear is essential
  • Warm layers: Ghorepani at 2,870 m is significantly colder than Pokhara — pack a fleece and a down jacket
  • Rain gear: The Poon Hill area is prone to afternoon showers even in the dry season — a lightweight waterproof jacket is essential
  • Headlamp and spare batteries: The Poon Hill pre-dawn hike requires reliable light
  • Water bottle and water purification tablets or filter: Tea houses provide boiled water, but carry backup
  • Snacks and energy food for the trek: Tea houses are available every hour on the trail
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm: High altitude UV intensity is strong even on overcast days
  • Camera with full battery and extra storage: The Poon Hill panorama is one of Nepal’s greatest photography opportunities
  • Cash (NPR): Limited ATM access on the trail — carry enough for accommodation, meals, and tips
  • Motion sickness medication: The Beni Baglung Highway and off-road section to Ulleri have numerous winding switchbacks

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Practical Tips for Your Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

  • Book your jeep at least 24–48 hours in advance during peak season (October–November and March–May) — vehicles are in high demand from Pokhara during the Poon Hill trekking season.
  • Depart Pokhara by 7:00–7:30 AM to arrive in Ulleri by 10:00–10:30 AM — giving you the full morning to trek to Ghorepani and arrive well before dark.
  • Obtain ACAP and TIMS permits at the Nepal Tourism Board in Lakeside, Pokhara, before departure — saves time and avoids delays at the Birethanti checkpoint.
  • Confirm with your driver whether the jeep will reach Ulleri directly or stop at Hile (Tikhedhunga) — and plan your trekking time accordingly.
  • Book your return jeep from Ulleri to Pokhara at the same time as your outward journey — this guarantees a vehicle is available when you descend from Ghorepani.
  • The Poon Hill sunrise hike is best done without a large trekking pack — leave main bags at your Ghorepani tea house and take only a day bag with camera, warm layers, and water.
  • Carry adequate NPR cash: There are no ATMs on the trail from Ulleri to Ghorepani — carry enough for two days of accommodation, meals, and tips (approximately NPR 4,000–6,000 per person).
  • During the monsoon season, always verify road conditions with Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd before your planned departure — the Hile-to-Ulleri section is particularly susceptible to rain damage.
  • Check in advance which tea houses in Ghorepani you will stay at during peak season — popular lodges fill up fast and booking ahead is strongly recommended for October and November.
  • The jeep track to Ulleri becomes increasingly rough above Hile — a travel pillow or cushion makes the ride significantly more comfortable.

 

Return Journey — Ulleri to Pokhara

Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd arranges private jeep returns from Ulleri or Hile to Pokhara at the same rate as the outward journey. Book your return at the same time as the outward trip to ensure vehicle availability — especially critical during the busy October–November trekking season. Most trekkers complete the descent from Ghorepani to Ulleri by mid-morning and are back in Pokhara by early afternoon.

Shared Jeep — Ulleri / Hile to Pokhara

Shared jeeps can be found at Ulleri and Hile in the mornings (typically 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM) heading back to Pokhara at approximately USD 10–15 per person. During peak season, these are reasonably easy to find. During off-peak times, availability can be uncertain. Asking at your Ghorepani tea house the evening before your descent is the best way to confirm availability.

Walk to Nayapul and take a bus to Pokhara

The traditional descent from Ulleri follows the stone steps back down to Tikhedhunga, then continues along the riverside trail to Birethanti and Nayapul — approximately 3 to 4 hours of walking. From Nayapul, local buses and shared taxis return to Pokhara in approximately 1 hour at NPR 200–300 per person.

 

Why Choose Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt. Ltd. for the Pokhara to Ulleri Route?

  • Experienced 4WD Drivers: Our drivers have extensive knowledge of the Beni Baglung Highway and the challenging Nayapul-to-Ulleri off-road track — including the steepest Hile-to-Ulleri section. They know when to engage low-range 4WD, where to slow down, and how to navigate the narrow sections safely.
  • Right Vehicles for the Route: Mahindra Scorpio 4WD and Toyota Hilux 4WD — the ideal jeeps for Nepal’s Annapurna foothills off-road tracks. High ground clearance, reliable 4WD systems, and proven performance on steep rocky terrain.
  • Hotel Pickup in Pokhara: Door-to-door service from your hotel in Lakeside, Dam Side, or anywhere in Pokhara — no need to navigate to Baglung Bus Park.
  • All-Inclusive Pricing: Driver, fuel, and road tolls all included in the quoted price. No hidden charges or fuel surcharges.
  • Flexible Stops: Ask your driver to pause at Kande viewpoint for morning mountain photos, or at Birethanti for tea — our drivers accommodate all reasonable requests along the route.
  • Return Booking: Book an outward and return jeep in a single reservation — guaranteed vehicle availability when you descend from Ghorepani.
  • Real-Time Road Monitoring: Our team tracks the Ulleri road condition daily during the monsoon season — we will proactively alert you to any road closures or safety concerns.
  • 24/7 Booking: WhatsApp, phone, or email at any time — instant confirmation.

Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service

Frequently Asked Questions — Pokhara to Ulleri Jeep Service 2026

Q: How far is Pokhara from Ulleri?

The road distance from Pokhara to Ulleri is approximately 48-52 km. The first 42 km from Pokhara to Nayapul is a paved highway; the remaining 6 to 10 km from Nayapul to Ulleri via Hile is a rough off-road mountain track.

How long does the jeep journey from Pokhara to Ulleri take?

A private 4WD jeep takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours from Pokhara to Ulleri, depending on road conditions and the number of stops. The Hile to Ulleri section is the slowest due to the extremely rough and steep track.

What is the 2026 cost of a private jeep from Pokhara to Ulleri?

A private jeep hire from Pokhara to Ulleri costs approximately USD 100-150 for the full vehicle (one-way), including driver and fuel. For a group of 6, this works out to approximately USD 17–25 per person — excellent value compared to the shared jeep alternative.

Does the jeep really skip the 3,300 stone steps?

Yes. The jeep track from Hile (Tikhedhunga) to Ulleri bypasses the famous stone step ascent that trekkers climb on the traditional trail. The jeep reaches Ulleri directly, saving approximately 2 hours of steep climbing. This is the primary reason many trekkers — especially families, older travelers, and those on tight schedules — choose to hire a jeep rather than walk from Nayapul.

Does the jeep go all the way to Ulleri or stop at Hile?

This depends on road conditions and the driver’s assessment on the day. Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd’s drivers always attempt to reach the closest accessible point to Ulleri village. In good dry season conditions, the jeep typically reaches Ulleri directly. Under certain conditions, the jeep stops at Hile (approximately a 1.5- to 2-hour walk below Ulleri). Confirm with us in advance.

When is the best time for the Pokhara-Ulleri jeep service?

October to February (dry season) is the best period for the jeep service. The Hile to Ulleri road is dry, manageable, and in its best condition during these months. Autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May) are the peak trekking seasons with the clearest mountain views at Poon Hill. Jeep service is not recommended during the heavy monsoon season (June–September), when roads are prone to landslides and closures.

What permits do I need for the Ulleri and Poon Hill trek?

You need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit — approximately NPR 3,000 / USD 22 per person) and a TIMS Card (approximately USD 10–20 per person). Both are inspected at the Birethanti checkpoint on the jeep route. Get both permits at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Lakeside, Pokhara, before departure.

Can I book a return jeep from Ulleri to Pokhara?

Yes. Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd arranges return private jeep hire from Ulleri or Hile to Pokhara at the same rate as the outward journey. We strongly recommend booking the return at the same time as your outward trip to guarantee availability during peak trekking season.

Can I hire a jeep for just the Nayapul-Ulleri section?

Yes. If you prefer to travel independently by local bus from Pokhara to Nayapul, Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd can arrange a private jeep hire from Nayapul to Ulleri only, costing approximately USD 70–90 for the entire vehicle.

 

Conclusion

The Pokhara-to-Ulleri jeep service is one of the smartest transport decisions any Poon Hill trekker can make. By bypassing the legendary 3,300 stone steps of Tikhedhunga and arriving at Ulleri rested and ready, you preserve your energy for the beautiful rhododendron forest trail to Ghorepani and the magical pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill.

Whether you are embarking on the classic 2-day Poon Hill express itinerary, the 3–4 day Ghorepani–Tadapani–Ghandruk loop, or the full Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Pokhara to Ulleri jeep service from Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd gives you the fastest, most comfortable, and most flexible start to your Annapurna adventure.

With experienced 4WD drivers, the right vehicles for Nepal’s off-road mountain tracks, transparent, all-inclusive pricing, hotel pickup in Pokhara, and 24/7 booking support, Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd makes the Pokhara-to-Ulleri journey as memorable and enjoyable as the trekking that follows.

Book your Pokhara to Ulleri jeep today — Call or WhatsApp: +977 9851013196
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.vehiclehiringnepal.com

Related Blog & Articles

22 May 2026 By Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd

Pokhara to ABC Trek Starting Point