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Poon Hill Trek – The Full Guide and Detailed Itinerary

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Seeing a beautiful sunrise from an altitude of 3,210 m with all the majestic Himalayan ranges is worth every strenuous walk it took to get there. Such is the feeling you get after reaching the top of Poon Hill situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Highest Elevation: 3,210 m
• Elevation gain: approx. 1,730 m
• Elevation loss: approx. 1,281 m
• Time: 4–5 days
• Closest Major City: Pokhara
• Permits: TIMS Card, Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit

The Poon Hill Trek is an unforgettable 4-day journey through the Himalayas. You’ll see views of the majestic mountains as soon as you leave Pokhara and head to the starting town of Nayapul. Along the way, you’ll walk along flat, paved roads, rocky terrain, about 3000 stone steps (yes, 3000), and through lush forests and fields of rhododendrons. Meet and engage with the locals by sharing a cup of chai in one of the many lodges. Spend your nights in basic teahouses with decent beds, delicious food (especially on Day 1), and unbelievable views. This trek will get your heart pumping, especially when faced with the challenge of climbing 3000 stairs or getting up at the crack of dawn to witness the sunrise from Poon Hill. This journey will be full of soul-warming moments and definitely worth the effort.

Day 1: Drive to Nayapul; Trek to Tikhedhunga

Start early as you drive approx. 40.0 km northwest from the lake city of Pokhara to Nayapul to begin your trek to Poon Hill. You can hire a jeep or take a bus from the Baglung Bus Park at Pokhara. If you want to have a comfortable ride, then hiring a jeep is recommended. On your way to Nayapul, you pass through Phedi, Naudanda, Kande and Lumle, and no doubt that the views from these places are indeed majestic. After almost an hour and a half drive, you reach Nayapul.

After you cross Nayapul, you reach Birethanti, where you come across many small markets selling you props required for your journey. It’s better if you stock up on some extra batteries and snack bars here as they might cost you a little extra as you go up. After descending further down from Birethanti, you move towards the first iron bridge and take the left trail that leads to Ghorepani (the right one leads you to Ghandruk). The iron bridge, below which the Modi river flows, is one of the many bridges you will encounter throughout the trek.

The trail is relatively flat and easy to walk with walking mostly through rocky terrains. You pass through a waterfall and then cross another suspension bridge to reach a Hindu temple in Ramghai. You can see a lot of local vendors selling fruits, vegetables and other items urging you to buy some of their products. Ramghai is a good place for a lunch stop as you get to see the beautiful green hills as you eat. From here, it is mostly climbing the rocky stairs though an easy one. The trail is filled with mules carrying loads of supplies, as it is one of the few ways of transporting good to higher lands. You might have to take occasional breaks to let the mules pass by. Many small lodges and restaurants can also be seen on the way.

After climbing for about 2 hours or so, you reach Tikhedhunga at 1,480 m . Tikhedhunga is a small yet beautiful settlement on the Ghorepani-Poon Hill trail where you get warm and quintessential hospitality. Stay in the Laxmi Guest House at Tikhedhunga. Although it is a basic teahouse for you to spend the night in, the bamboo grove house has everything you fancy. The sit-out area is the perfect place to sip a cup of coffee while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings. The rooms are simple yet comfortable. The toilets are shared. You can only charge your electronics in the dining hall, and a hot shower is provided for an extra price. The food is exceptionally good here compared to the other lodges in the area. Take a good rest as tomorrow is going to be a strenuous journey.

Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani

You don’t see much of the views or the sunrise from Tikhedhunga as the area is covered with numerous tall trees. Nevertheless, mornings are really glorious in the region where you’re far from all the traffic, dust and pollution. After a hearty breakfast, you start the most challenging part of the whole trek as you must climb more than 3000 stairs and the trail is a steep uphill for most parts of the day. An early start is recommended to reach the destination, Ghorepani, before the light is gone.

After walking for 5 minutes from Tikhedhunga, you come across one of the many suspension bridges you’ll be walking through today. The infamous steep stairs come within 20 minutes after you cross the bridge. It is going to be a long and hard day. So, buckle up and start steadily walking through the stairs. Don’t push too much as you’ll be out of breath soon, which will further add to your tiredness. Although dominated by mountain mules through most of the trail, it is a peaceful walk to Ghorepani. Pass through picturesque villages and settlements where the locals greet you and offer you to take a rest in their huts. There’s a school nearby, so you’ll be frequently accompanied by school kids exchanging smiles. The snow-capped mountains start to appear as you get closer to Ulleri ( 1,960 m ). Take a pit stop at a teahouse in Ulleri and congratulate yourself for enduring a steep trail, although the uphill doesn’t end here.

You walk through stone-paved trails on a flat surface with the Annapurna South and Hiunchuli mountains ever-present in the view. Leave behind the terraced fields full of corn to enter a lush green forest filled with rhododendron. You will notice the difference in the weather as well as the flora as you climb higher. Walk past the dense forest with small waterfalls flowing on the side of the trail to reach another village Ban Thanti. The English translation to Ban Thanti is a rest house in the forest (Ban= Forest, Thanti= Rest House), a literal translation as the teahouses are in the middle of the forest. You can choose to take a lunch break here or walk for another hour to reach Nange Thanti. Both these villages provide appetizing food though Nange Thanti offers relatively more teahouses. After lunch, follow the trail until you reach the gate of Ghorepani ( 2,860 m ) that says, “Welcome to Ghorepani Poon Hill.” Almost every teahouse and hotel at Ghorepani are coloured with blue, so it is an iconic sight to see the admirable village. Ghorepani houses the highest number of lodges in the whole trek area and it doesn’t matter where you stay for the night. Almost every lodge offers the same facilities. The rooms are nice, particularly the ones with a view of the village and the food is fresh and scrumptious. Stay at Snow View Lodge, where you can sit on their balcony whilst enjoying the view of the majestic mountains with a hot cup of tea.

You have to wake up very early in the morning tomorrow as hiking up to Poon Hill is the trek’s focal point. Have a good sleep and rest your sore muscles from walking today’s steep trail.

Day 3: Morning hike to Poon Hill; Trek to Tadapani

If you don’t want to miss the splendid sunrise from the viewpoint of Poon Hill ( 3,210 m ), then you have to wake up around 3:30–4:00 am, no matter how sluggishly. After a cup of coffee or tea at your guesthouse, be sure to leave with a head torch and warm clothes to protect your body from the freezing cold in the high altitude. It’s not that hard identifying the trail leading to Poon Hill as you’ll see plenty of hikers going up. On the other hand, the trail is a steep, laborious climb with intricately paved stones all along the way. The climb is definitely worth it for the magical views you see from up top. As the sun rises, a vast panorama that stretches from Mt. Dhaulagiri ( 8,167 m ) to Mt. Manaslu ( 8,156 m ) with the Annapurna range and Mt. Machhapuchre ( 6,993 m ) in between is seen. The rising sun will warm your body, whereas the landscape will warm your soul.

After coming down from Poon Hill, have your breakfast and start hiking to the next destination for the day, Tadapani ( 2,630 m ). The trail today is a mixture of flat paths, uphills, and downhills. It is quite an interesting route in terms of the landscape you see, the majestic mountains you encounter and the people you meet on the trail. Just after leaving Ghorepani, you navigate through steep stairs amidst a dense forest filled with rhododendrons. There is a resting place perfectly placed right after the end of the stairs. After taking a significant amount of time for rest, descend to reach Deurali Pass ( 3,090 m ). Deurali also offers some spectacular views of the mountains, as seen from Poon Hill but from a lower altitude. The pass runs along the ridgeline of the hillside, decorated with prayer flags in a stone slab just like every other high pass. The path is a narrow one, arranged with wooden logs serving as stairs with the dwindling sequence of hills seen from either side. The trail after Deurali takes you deep into the valley and the pine trees start to appear along with countless waterfalls. One such notable waterfall lies on the way to your lunch stop at Banthanti. During monsoon, the waterfall is huge and just hearing the sound of it refreshes your body. You’ll also see a lot of unique trees with moss and grass hanging out of them. After descending another set of stone stairs, you reach Banthanti and have a delightful lunch.

The trail after Banthanti to Tadapani is quite similar except that the rhododendrons start appearing again, making the landscape look like a painting. This trail is filled with different types of pretty birds that you hear singing from the tall trees towering above you. Abandoned wooden houses, hanging prayer flags, gushing waterfalls and damp forests are abundantly distributed all along the trail. After crossing a small wooden bridge, the last climb to Tadapani begins, which you secretly enjoy after hurting your knees by walking down too much. Tadapani is a small, charming village where you can see the Annapurna II, Machhapuchre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli mountains on a clear day. Stay in the Super View Lodge, which offers a superb view of the lush green valleys with the staggering high mountains. The rooms are comfortable and the amenities are the same as in previous days. Enjoy the reflection of the sunset on the mountains and doze off for your last trekking day tomorrow.

Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk; Drive to Pokhara

You have the liberty to sleep in later today as you only have a short distance to Ghandruk ( 1,940 m ) and take a 4x4 jeep or a bus back to Pokhara from Kimche. Tadapani has many conjoining trails: the trail that you came in yesterday from Ghorepani to the west, to the north is the trail to Khopra Danda and to the east is Ghandruk.

After the morning rituals, head east down the trail. The walk is super easy today with only a hint of uphill and mostly down and flat trails. Continue through the forest with mushrooms, fern and moss omnipresent all along the trail. You encounter a couple of stairs with small waterfalls flowing on the side, a joy to watch. Small suspension bridges decorated with prayer flags appear now and then. You reach a large clearing filled with buffaloes known as the Bhaisi Kharka (the Nepali word Bhaisi translates to buffalo). You’ll be urged to stop at Bhaisi Kharka by the fascinating Gurung people for a special lemon tea.

After leaving Bhaisi Kharka, you arrive at Ghandruk in no time. From Ghandruk, there are uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range and the iconic houses of the Gurung community. Ghandruk has a small museum that you can visit to dive into the local culture of the people there. A small gumba is also present if you are the religious type. Have your lunch at Ghandruk and walk for another 20–25 minutes to get to Kimche. You can hire a jeep or take the local bus back to Pokhara. Although it is possible to walk from Kimche to Nayapul, due to the road’s construction and expansion in the mountains, the once-most-sought-out trekking trail from Ghandruk to Nayapul has been dusted and not worth the walk. Alternatively, you can spend the night at Ghandruk and take an early bus to Pokhara. If you decide to stay in Ghandruk, then Panorama View Point Lodge is the best option as it is the perfect place to see the classical Gurung village along with the view of the mountains.

Here’s a recorded map route of the Poon Hill Trek route with each night’s stop along the way. The grey line indicates sections done in a vehicle, and the orange shows the trekking route.

The Poon Hill Trek is located in central Nepal, a region that sees all four seasons. The ideal trekking season for this area is during autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). Do your best to avoid going during summer or winter because the high-altitude areas are prone to landslides and avalanches; it’s also monsoon season during the summer, and trekking during this time is miserable.

If you can travel to Nepal for the Poon Hill Trek during Autumn, then go for it! The monsoon season will have watered all the alpine flowers— they will be lush and vibrant during fall. In autumn, the days are warm and clear, and the nights are cool. Spring is also ideal for trekking in Nepal when the weather is warm, but keep in mind that you may encounter some rainy afternoons.

The most common accommodations you’ll find on most treks in Nepal are called teahouses. These are mountain lodged with basic amenities—just what you need after a long day of trekking. They’ll provide a comfortable bed, and a shared bathroom, and a communal eating area. The good news is, they are incredibly budget-friendly, costing anywhere from $3 to $10 per night. Some teahouses outshine others, such as the teahouses listed in the itinerary above: Day 1 at Laxmi Guest House, Day 2 at Snow View Lodge, and Day 3 at Super View Lodge.

Staying at a teahouse has its pros. You’ll meet other trekkers each night, and you can carry less gear since you don’t need a tent or cooking gear when staying in teahouses. Each teahouse will have meals available from a range of menu items, some local and some western, to appeal to trekkers from all around the world. If you are carrying electronics with you, you’ll pay a small fee if you want to charge them. And if you desperately need a hot shower, a small fee is attached to that, too—and there could be a power outage. One thing you can count on, though, is absolutely breathtaking views. You’re sleeping in the Himalayas!

Your budget should be around $365 to $405 to trek Poon Hill over 4 days, including transportation, food, permits, visa, guide, and porter.

• Food: $15–$25/day x 4 = $60–$100
• Transportation: $20 (one-way) x 2 = $40
• TIMS card: $8.35
• ACAP permit: $25
• 15-day visa: $30
• Guide: $30/day x 4 = $120
• Porter: $20/day x 4 = $80
• TOTAL: $363.35–$403.35

The Poon Hill Trek can be completed on your own by finding guides and porters and handling all the paperwork involved yourself. For some people, this is part of the joy of travelling. For others, this is a huge burden—and luckily, there’s a way to avoid all that: join up with a tour company and let the organization handle all the details.

If Nepal is on your list, but planning the trip overwhelms you, these Nepal Tours may inspire you. All you need to do is pack your bag and enjoy the mountains. Adventure tours help you enjoy your limited vacation time by handling the itinerary for you. It’s a super easy and gratifying way to see the world. Here are some pros and cons to choosing a tour.

Pros of trekking with a tour company

When you join a tour, you can trust that the guides have been vetted. They’re experienced professionals with whom you can engage, ask questions, and learn so much more. Don’t waste time trying to sift through all the available guides and porters on whom you have no information. With a tour, you can read reviews and pick which one suits you. Adventure tours are stress-free—you don’t need to think about where you’ll sleep, carry a map, or even think about what you’ll eat (except the occasional snack). The details are taken care of! Just pack your bag (see our recommended packing list below) and enjoy the breathtaking Himalayas without being burdened by logistics.

Cons of trekking with a tour company

If planning trips excites you, then a tour may not be for you. And if you enjoy some flexibility, like staying an extra night or wandering as you please, you may prefer going on your own rather than adhering to the fixed schedule of an adventure tour.

Recommended Poon Hill Trek Tour

One of the tours available for trekking Poon Hill is an unforgettable 11-day journey, extending what is normally a 4-day trek into a week-and-a-half long experience. The Ghorepani and Poon Hill Trek invites you to take your time immersing in this magical part of the world. It includes sightseeing in Pokhara and an extended route from Nayapul trekking back to Pokhara over 6 days. The tour operator is a certified company that uses local guides and supports the local communities.

Any time you venture from your home, you want to feel safe, and travel insurance is a sure-fire way to maintain that sense of security. For the adventure tours listed on our marketplace, travel insurance is mandatory, so we recommend purchasing insurance, whether going alone or with a tour company.

After racking up many years of adventure travel, the 10Adventures team prefers the insurance provider World Nomads . Their values resonate with us as an adventure travel company. Some other insurance providers don’t provide coverage for certain extreme sports, so you’ll have to read the policy very carefully to ensure proper coverage. We choose World Nomads because they have policies that cover activities like trekking, which is very important to us. No matter which provider you use, travel safely.

On multi-day backpacking trips, you want to keep weight down in your pack as much as possible. Because you’ll be staying in teahouses, this cuts the weight down significantly because you won’t have to carry a tent or cooking gear. Here’s a list of what you should pack for your Poon Hill Trek.

Gear + Clothes

• Backpack 40–50 litres with rain cover (try to avoid anything larger, so you’re not tempted to fill the space)
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping bag liner
• Hiking boots (broken-in and comfortable)
• 5 x Hiking socks (1 pair per day + 1 clean and dry for nights)
• 4 x Underwear
• 2 x Sports bra (women)
• 2 pairs of trekking pants
• 1 pair of comfy pants for nights
• 2–4 shirts (depending on how often you need to change)
• Long-sleeve thermal
• Thermal pants
• Packable puffy jacket
• Rain poncho
• Waterproof jacket
• Quick-dry microfibre camp towel
• Slides (slip-on sandals) for nights in teahouses when you take your boots off

Accessories

• Trekking poles
• Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, soap (shampoo if you want to wash your hair, but most likely, you will wait until the end of the journey to shower!)
• Collapsible water bottle or bladder
• First aid kit: sunscreen, band-aids, lip balm, ibuprofen, Imodium
• Insider tip: wrap a small roll of duct tape on your trekking pole + use to prevent blisters. Place it on hot spots where blisters may form. Your socks will glide on the duct tape and prevent blisters from forming. Do not put duct tape on already broken skin! That will be very painful to peel off.
• Hand sanitizer
• Passport + important documents
• Toilet paper (not always available)
• Cash (no ATMs in the mountains)
• Water purification tablets (you can buy purified water, but it is more expensive)
• Electrolytes/Nuun tablets
• Snacks (although you can purchase these along the way, they get more expensive as you get further into the mountains)
• Plastic bags (for wet clothes, dirty laundry, or garbage)

The Poon Hill Trek is one of the more manageable trekking routes in the Himalayas as the altitude doesn’t exceed 3,210 m , whereas some other treks lead you much higher. Whether you venture out on your own or with an organized adventure tour, the Poon Hill Trek will be stamped in your memory forever—especially witnessing that epic sunrise! If you are keen to trek, but the Poon Hill Trek doesn’t quite fit your style, check out some of the best treks in Nepal for inspiration. Happy Trails!

Check out more related articles:

• The Langtang Trek
• Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
• The Most Stunning Family Holiday Destinations For 2021

Thinking about a trek in Nepal?  Check out these guides to learn more and have an incredible trip to the Himalayas.

Nepal Trekking Guides

• Guide to the Best Treks in Nepal
• When is the best time to trek in Nepal
• How to prepare for trekking in Nepal

Nepal Trekking Route Guides

• Annapurna Basecamp Trek
• Annapurna Circuit
• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Langtang Trek
• Mustang Trek
• Poon Hill Trek
• Adventure Tours in Nepal

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The Ultimate Guide to Nepal’s Poon Hill Trek

• Last Updated: August 20, 2019

Everything you need to know about what it’s like to hike Nepal’s Poon Hill trek.

Nepal is arguably the best trekking destination on the planet, and thousands of people flock to this small, landlocked Asian nation every year to head deep into the Himalaya.

While famous hikes such as the one to Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit bringing in the majority of adventurers looking for extended forays into the mountains, there are a number of shorter hikes that are just as incredible.

I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Nepal quite a few times over the years, and in 2018 returned and managed to tackle the marvellous Poon Hill trek.

Table of Contents

Introduction To Hiking The Poon Hill Trek

What to pack for your hike, day 1 morning – pokhara to hille, day 1 afternoon – hille to ulleri, day 2 – ulleri to ghorepani, day 3 – ghorepani to poon hill, day 4 – ghorepani to ghandruk, day 5 – ghandruk to australian camp, day 6 – australian camp to naudanda, the comedown, how to trek poon hill – guided or independent.

Seeing the Himalaya from a plane I must admit is pretty breathtaking, and I thought that this would be the closest I would ever get to some of the world’s most majestic peaks.

Well I was wrong. Really wrong.

Having previously experienced the Mustang Valley of Nepal, this area we were bound for was completely in contrast to the desolate plains and hills to the west.

We are bound for the Annapurna Conservation Area, a place where everything is lush, waterfalls cascade and mountains glisten with snow and ice.

The Poon Hill Trek is just stunning. Here is my guide on how to trek Poon Hill and all of its surrounds.

Poon Hill Hike Overview

Here’s a bit of a background information on how to trek to Poon Hill.

• Days Required:   5 to 6 days
• Altitude:   3210 metres (Highest point)
• Best Time To Trek:   October to May
• Costs:   Depending on whether you choose to use a guide and porters to going alone, the prices will vary drastically.
• Guide and porters:  there is no set price where ever you go so negotiations are likely to take place until a price is met.
• Teahouses:  prices can vary from teahouse to teahouse but are usually very cheap
• Food:  Set menus are in place for many teahouses and are usually cheap.

Besides the basics above, you also need to get some permits.

• Permits:   ACAP permit and TIMS card. These both ensure that you are legally trekking and abiding by laws within the area. The general price for a permit is $10 USD. You need to carry both the ACAP and TIMS card on you when hiking and have them checked when an office appears. You can apply for your permits in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

A lot of hardcore hikers think they don’t need a guide or porter, but I highly recommend you get one anyway.

• Guides And Porters:   A guide on this trek is a brilliant way to gain further knowledge into the Annapurna Region, but this hike can be done without a guide as tracks are quite straightforward with plenty of maps located at some of the bigger towns along the trail. As for porters, it’s up to you and your fitness; if you choose not to have a guide then you probably won’t need a porter.

It’s important to carry some technical clothing and gear with you when you are hiking in the mountains, and especially in the Himalaya.

The weather can change extremely fast and temperatures can drop to below freezing before you know it. You can buy a lot of (fake) equipment in Nepal.

Because I was coming from Australia, I headed into the local Kathmandu store and stocked up there. They make the best outdoor clothing in Australia and New Zealand, so if you’re from there check with the experts in store.

• Thermal layering including top and pants
• Hiking pants, both long and short, or get convertible pants.
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Quality hiking backpack
• Down jacket – these puffy jackets are essential for keeping your torso warm
• Rain and wind jacket – make sure you get a quality jacket that doesn’t leak
• Sleeping bag and silk liner
• Cold weather gloves – you will need waterproof gloves aswell as a pair of inner gloves to keep your fingers warm
• Plenty of socks (having a pair of dry socks are the best)
• A beanie – keeping your head warm is essential especially at night
• Hiking poles – if you’re not using a porter, hiking poles will help you balance when carrying your bag. They also provide support for your knees.
• Water bottle (2 litres is ideal)
• Sterilization pen or chlorine tablets to keep your water bug free.

My Daily Poon Hill Trek Itinerary

This is a breakdown of what you can expect on the Poon Hill trail, based on my experiences doing it.

You need to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, and there are daily flights or you can take a 7-hour ride on a local bus.

Once in Pokhara you can organise your trek and head out to the trailhead.

• Time – 2 to 3 hours by bus and jeep
• Start/ Finish – Pokhara / Hille

The next thing we know, the Poon Hill trek from Pokhara had begun as we crammed on board a ‘tourist’ bus while navigating midday traffic in the back streets of Pokhara.

With my head stuck out the window like a dog, it was all happening so quickly, and we were so excited. These things you literally cannot get enough of.

All of a sudden our bus driver steers up a road that is meant to be under construction, but quite frankly it’s just a very wide Khola “creek” which kept speeds down to a very minimum.

Once the bus had reached its destination, still leaving our crew some 20 kilometres from the trail head, a series of jeeps sat waiting for our arrival.

When our bags were bundled to the top of these 1990’s style jeeps we managed to make it a solid 2 kilometres down the hill before becoming stuck on a hair pin corner.

But when you have a team of Nepalese locals and porters becoming stuck is no problem.

Soon enough, there are people standing on the back of the jeep to create extra weight while the driver is revving well into the red zone with reverse placed in gear.

Powered by a fantastic lunch at Birenthanti, which is a junction town situated on the Modi Khola which originates from the Annapurna Himal, we were fuelled up and ready to hit the mountains.

And as the Nepalese would say “ dal bhat power, 24 hour”.

After becoming unstuck and feasting on a fine lunch, it becomes clear of where the trail head will be as the driver hints towards a town situated high up on the Luprung Danda.

My immediate thought was “oh it’s only across the valley; it will take an hour at maximum”. Our jeeps pull up one by one, bags are unloaded and it’s once again time for me to experience Nepal the right way, by foot.

• Time:  2 hours
• Elevation:  600 metres gained
• Start / Finish:  Hille/ Ulleri

Our guide, Ram (a common nickname for Nepalese guides) confirms that our night will be spent at the foothills of Luprung Danda which will require a slight incline involving many, many stone stairs.

Immediately waterfalls appeared and cascaded out of dense forest patches, as swing bridges assisted us over Bhurungdi Khola to the lower slopes of Luprung Danda.

From this point, it was all about taking on the stairs one by one, which sometimes was hard to keep one foot in front of the other when views already began to take away my breath away (not the altitude).

Our views were short-lived as a storm passed from the heights of the higher Himalaya turning straight over our heads, leaving our crew to find shelter under a small structure until the storm transited over Nangge Danda.

Not far from Ulleri, a train of mules pass by; taking no interest in my attempts to capture them on film spits of rain begin to collect once again bringing about a light mist shrouding the higher reaches of Ulleri and it looked stunning.

Apparently from here it was possible to see snow capped peaks but that would have to wait until the morning.

Reeling after the continuous rising of stairs, I could have opted for a nap, but there was too much of Ulleri to explore and my anticipation of my long awaited tasting of dal bhat (it had only been 3 hours since lunch) was too close. And that got me excited.

Kamala Guesthouse was our accommodation for the night which was perfectly situated on the slopes of Ulleri. I couldn’t wait for what the views would be like at first light.

• Time – 5 to 6 hours
• Elevation – 1350 metres gained
• Start / Finish – Ulleri/ Ghorepani

It’s not often you get locked inside your accommodation, and of all the times I wanted to go outside I simply couldn’t unless I did a bit of improvisation which involved cat-like tactics and long arms.

Next thing I know I am walking the cobbled streets of Ulleri to put myself in position for my first sunrise attempt of the trip.

Waking up 3 hours before sunrise certainly didn’t help, considering sunrise was at 7:30 am, which meant I had plenty of time to wander through Ulleri to a few special places.

I caught my first glimpse of the Himalaya with no real idea which mountain was which, but it really didn’t matter.

It was pure magic as I sat on the edge of a corn field, embracing some of the world’s finest alpenglow.

After a solid Nepali breakfast it was time to continue the hike, which would be a day of hiking through Nepal’s famous rhododendron forests that are quite special to the Annapurna Region.

Ram our guide, along with Bodhi the assistant guide, explained where we would be hiking over the next few days, pointing to the higher reaches of Luprung Danda, which looked so far from our current position.

Further along the trail the sounds of Bhurungdi Khola (a raging river) begin to increase, only to realise that the river flowed some 200 metres below us.

It wasn’t until Nangetharti (halfway between Ulleri and Ghorepani) that we crossed back over the river which at the same time provided a stunning spot for a snack and photos.

After another delicious lunch of dal bhat, we entered lush areas of rhododendrons, and although not in flower, the hiking was spectacular and it continued to be so right to the door of our guesthouse named Peace and Excellent View Lodge .

• Time:  30 minutes to 1 hour
• Elevation:  340 metres gained
• Start / Finish:  Ghorepani/ Ghorepani

Being based in Ghorepani allowed for a relatively easy trek to Poon Hill to watch sunrise over the Himalaya. Ghorepani to Poon Hill takes about 30-45 minutes depending on level of fitness, and consists mostly of stone stairs.

In order to see one of the best sunrises in Nepal, you’re going to have to rise fairly early – 3:30am is idyllic.

It was worth it, because I never thought that the views from Poon Hill would be breathtakingly amazing!

Although it can be very crowded at the top, there are a few secret spots on either side of the viewing platform which provides a more natural view.

From the top of Poon Hill there are a multitude of mountains to seek including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhare, which are some of the tallest mountains in the world.

• Time:  7 to 9 hours
• Elevation:  550 metres ascent followed by a 1,440 metre descent
• Start / Finish:  Ghorepani/ Ghandruk

After seeing one of the best sunrises of my life on Poon Hill, it was time to hit the trail and head for Ghandruk.

The day starts off from Ghorepani directly followed by a steep ascent to Duerali La about, 45 minutes from Ghorepani.

What’s so cool about Duerali La (‘La’ means pass in Nepali) is that you can see planes flying below you from Pokhara to Jomsom.

All of a sudden the plane disappears into the background where it becomes completely dwarfed by Dhaulagir,i the 7th tallest mountain in the world.

Continuing the hike brings you closer to the ancient, twisted and moss covered rhododendron trees as we enter the ridge lines of upper Luprung Danda.

Unexpectedly a series of 100 or more waterfalls appeared and they were all just magic! It was literally a hiker’s dream seeing pristine, crystal clear water.

Today was the most spectacular and beautiful day by far, and we still had 2 days to go.

Our lunch was spent watching a monkey high up on a cliff face licking some sort of aphrodisiac lichen out of the rocks, but I much preferred my meal of dal bhat and black tea by the litre.

Extremely full from a satisfying lunch, the trail continued downwards to a once hydro plant and to suit, a midday monsoon erupts from the skies making the climb to Tadapani quite exciting!

All of a sudden, our tracks became flooded as the rain continued to penetrate the dense canopy above.

After sheltering at a local teahouse in Tadapani, the rains eased showing a few ridge lines of Annapurna South.

Still some hours from Ghandruk, the trails turned to slosh making it quite difficult to stay on track but things where made easier as we listened to the singing of our youngest porter, Sagar .

Skies slowly began to clear with the odd rumble about the Himalaya; Ghandruk was edging closer as the day had consisted of 6 hours on the trail.

It was clearly time for one of Nepal’s finest Gorkha beers after starting the day at 330am.

Little did anyone know that the views from Ghandruk would be some of the finest in all of the Annapurna, and I’m not just saying that…it was truly amazing and probably the best views you will get on the Poon Hill Trek!

To the left of the vista, Annapurna South connected with Hiunchuli both glowing in the afternoon sun while Ganggapurna and Tare Kang dominated the valley leading to Annapurna Base Camp, and then there was Machhapuchhare and just wow.

All of a sudden, I scramble to pull all of my camera gear together while taking a large gulp of Gorkha beer, because the rest of my afternoon consisted of staring at some of the most beautiful mountains, rice terraces and rolling clouds I had ever seen.

Ghandruk, you are literally the most beautiful place in the world!  Simon Guest House you have the best views in the business! So amazing!

• Time:  7 to 8 hours
• Elevation:  800 metres descent, 550 metres ascent
• Start/ Finish:  Ghandruk / Australian Camp

Once again I managed to be the very first person to rise in Ghandruk at the hour of 4:30 am in order to do some exploring before we began hiking again.

Equipped with an extremely oversized lens*, I scrambled out of the hotel onto the cobble stoned streets and made way to Gurung Village some 20 minutes’ walk away.

It was one of the most breathtaking views I have seen as I sat and watched Gurung village from above come to life, listening to the bell of mules followed by a teahouse playing extremely loud Nepali music as a creeping inversion layer began to engulf Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

On the other end of the scale, Machhapuchhare stood strong as the sun continued to rise, some seriously amazing scenes happened that morning.

Ghandruk is known to be extremely tiring accessing if you are hiking from Modi Khola (river) direction, but getting down to Modi Khola was a tough one.

Stair after stair after stair for 2 hours proved to be a knee killer, but that pain was soon lifted after witnessing some of the happiest school kids on their morning commute to school.

On arriving at Modi Khola, the hardest part of the day was done meaning the rest of it could be enjoyed in comfort despite having to go up another thousand or so steps to Landruk, which is directly opposite Ghandruk except on the other side of the valley.

Landruk provided some stunning views back onto Ghandruk, as well as the surrounding mountains as midday storms began to form.

Shortly before we finished our lunch it began pouring, although soon to clear revealing stunning landscapes.

Some distance into the trek, I came across a lovely Nepali lady who was brewing a fresh batch of Raksi (home brew made from millet) to which she explained to me how she made it and then offered me a coffee cup full of this crystal clear liquid. And it was so delicious!

A short 30 minutes later with keen eyes, I spotted a tree full of white-faced monkeys which soon jumped from tree to tree, quite a spectacle.

Distant rumbles continued to echo throughout the valley as we hiked past rice terraces being ploughed by water buffalo as the sun slowly began to set to the west.

After a quick stop at Pothana to have our TIMS cards checked by officials, it was onto Australian Camp for our last night.

With a cup of Masala tea in hand, water buffalos quickly entered the unused camping ground for a snack of green grass before we ourselves tucked into some fine cuisines under a rainy sky.

As we settled in for the night, rains where upon Gurkhas Guest House with a few faint rumbles of thunder coming down the valley.

• Time:  2.5 hours
• Elevation:  600 metres descent
• Start / Finish:  Australian Camp / Naudanda

For my last morning on the trail, I had planned to rise for a sunrise but the weather had other plans.

Not to dampen my spirits, Tibetan bread was served with a healthy pouring of black tea.

I think the water buffalo could smell just how good the bread was, which resulted in a heard rushing back into the campground to see if they could pinch a bit of our breakfast.

Today there are two options on which route can be taken (dependent on weather conditions) and the weather seemed to be clearing, so it was decided that the so called ‘leech ridge’ would be taken.

Any adventure that involves a dog is a top adventure and we were lucky enough to have two pooches join us, even though both of the dogs had a slight disliking for one another.

They proved to be great guard dogs when a feisty water buffalo got too close.

As the morning rains had passed by, the ground became in sorts a slippery slide which made things super fun!

To our left, Machhapuchhare stood proud and to the right of leech ridge, hills of rice terraces flushed with different shades of green amongst the late morning light.

It would have been 45 minutes before we were scheduled to catch a bus back to Pokhara so Raaj, Sagar (two young porters) and I sat waiting for the rest of the group.

We began talking to an older lady and her husband whose ancestors came from Mongolia, to which she even allowed me to take a portrait of her as her husband stood intrigued by what I had in my hand.

The smiles I received after showing the lady her photo on the small screen were priceless.

Continuing further down towards our pick up point, we had one incredible experience of life in small villages outside of the major city centres.

We watched crops being harvested, children walking the long kilometres to school as cows wandered aimlessly along the cobble stoned streets then suddenly lie down in the middle of the path blocking scooters and passerbys.

After being in the quitter parts of Nepal for the past 5 days experiencing some of the finest views, food and friendly locals it was back to Pokhara with a quick 1.5 hour ride for a well-deserved meal, hot shower and rest.

The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most amazing and quite possibly the easiest way to see the Himalaya while also experiencing the teahouse life.

I look back on this trek and realise just how beautiful the scenery is, the smiles of the people, the endless servings of dal bhat and the amount of stairs separating me from point A to point B.

If you want to get a scope for trekking and seeing what Nepal is all about, I would highly recommend doing this trek.

Even if you haven’t done much trekking or if you are the avid day hiker, this could be the start of many adventurous things to come!

There’s a couple of different ways you can do the Poon Hill trek, depending on your budget, timeframe and hiking experience.

You can either book a fully guided tour from Kathmandu or Pokhara, and this can be a great option if you prefer to have someone else look after the logistics and you want sherpas and an English-speaking guide.

For those of you out there that are really experienced with trekking, it’s always possible to just show up in Pokhara, jump on public transport to the trailhead and then start hiking.

You can book your teahouse accommodation as you go and there’s plenty of places to stop and eat, so all you really need to do is carry money, your clothes, your permits and your camera gear.

I really recommend at the very least hiring a sherpa, even if you don’t think you need someone to carry your gear.

The reason is you are then giving a local job and injecting money straight into the economy, and also because you’ll have some incredible local interactions with them. You’ll learn so much more about the wonderful Nepalese people this way!

Sherpas can cost between USD$15-30 a day, depending on their English skills.

If you want to pre-book your Poon Hill Trek, check out this option on Viator.

Book Your Trek On Viator

[box] I tackled the Poon Hill Trek as a delegate of the Himalayan Travel Mart representing NOMADasaurus. All thoughts, opinions and copious amounts of dal bhat consumed are, as always, my own.[/box]

Calumn Hockey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The trek looks amazing in the Himalayas.

It does, doesn’t it. We can not wait to get there either.

Just a note – a Porter carries your bags. A sherpa is a member of a particular community. Your porter may be a sherpa but the 2 words are not interchangeable.

Wow what a great trekking adventure. I would love to go to Nepal and experience the country the culture and its people next year. Thanks for sharing your experience and tips.

Calumn wrote a great article for us. We haven;’t been to Nepal yet and would love to one day. It looks absolutely beautiful. Glad you enjoyed the article Jason. 🙂

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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – The Best View Of The Annapurna Himal

Asia , Nepal

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek (aka the Poon Hill Trek) is generally regarded as one of the best short treks in Nepal .

Classic treks in Nepal generally require two or three weeks of your time, but one of the great things about the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is that it can be accomplished in as little as four days, however, most people take five days.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Several factors contribute to the Poon Hill Trek's popularity: it requires only moderate fitness and is one of the least physically-demanding of Nepal’s treks, making it ideal for families or retirees; there is little risk of altitude sickness (highest altitude is 3,210m); and the accommodation, in the shape of family-run tea houses , is of good quality, so there is no need to cart around tents, sleeping bags (although we do recommend you take a sleeping bag for extra comfort and warmth) and food.

Apart from being a great introduction to trekking for non-trekkers, as well as providing a fantastic experience for those with little time, the main drawcard of the trek is the beauty and diversity of the scenery: one minute there is lush vegetation, the next, terraced rice fields and then alpine areas. All along the trek, the highly attractive fluted peak of Machhapuchhare (Fishtail Peak) dominates the skyline.

Upon reaching Poon Hill, you will be faced by one of the most spectacular mountainscapes on Earth. Poon Hill is 3,210 metres high, and the view at sunrise is a joy to behold, justifying each and every gruelling step you took to get there. From the top of Poon Hill, the snow-capped summits of the Himalayan giants (Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I) are both more than 8,000 metres high, can clearly be seen in addition to many other peaks. When the sun’s rays strike the mountains, they glow like gold.

Having the  Himalayas so close, virtually on your doorstep, is breathtaking.

Annapurna Regional Map

The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is in central Nepal, in the Annapurna region. The nearest big town is Pokhara (see map above).

Recommended Map

Unfortunately, there aren’t many great maps available online. The best schematic we have found is above, from Globe Trekker.

There are, however, some good trekking maps of the Annapurna region that you can purchase online. 

Annapurna Map by National Geographic is a detailed trekking map for routes from Pokhara along the Marsyandi River, Thorung Pass, and the Kali Gandaki River in the Annapurna Conservation Area.

We also recommend by Ian P Johnson and Around Annapurna 1: 125 000: Annapurna Conservation Area – Annapurna Sanctuary . It includes detailed trails, walking distances and altitudes.

In terms of a single detailed map we recommend the Himalayan MapHouse’s New Annapurna Trekking Trails Map , which can be bought in Kathmandu, Pokhara or on Amazon UK here (unfortunately it is not on Amazon US yet).

We have also provided links and recommendations to new guides and maps below.

Poon Hill Trek Itinerary

Most people fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara to begin the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. Flights leave regularly, although weather interruptions / delays are common. The flight takes approximately 30 minutes and will set you back between US$70-US$100. Make sure to sit on the right-hand side on the way from Kathmandu to Pokhara as the views are exquisite. Sit on the left-hand side on the way back.

If you want to save money, you can catch a tourist bus from Katmandu which generally takes 6-8 hours (depending on the condition of the roads and police checkpoints). Expect to pay 300-400 Rupees (~US$6).

Day 1: Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedunga

Trekking begins at Nayapul Crossing – the suspension bridge over the Modhi Khola river – following a pleasant one-hour drive from Pokhara. You can either catch a bus or get a taxi (~1,500 NPR) from Pokhara to Nayapul. The Modi Gorge is home to hundreds of bird species.

Day 2: Tikhedunga to Ghorepani

On the second day, you will walk, mostly through woods including the world’s largest rhododendron forest, until, after negotiating around 3,500 stone steps at Ulleri Hill, you reach the Ghorepani Village base camp. The name means “horse water” and it was so-called because many ponies would often take water there on their way to or from Tibet.

Ghorepani is festooned with closely packed rhododendron trees, which is appropriate enough given that the rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal. These forests are at their most beautiful when they bloom in spring, bearing red flowers. Around 7-8 hours will be given to walking on day 2, and the first great views of the Annapurna range will be seen on this day.

Day 3: Ghorepani to Ghandruk

The third day commences at dawn (approximately at 5am) in order to catch the first ray of sunlight on Poon Hill. The walk from Ghorepani to Poon Hill takes about 45 minutes. During high season (April-May, Oct-Nov) there are sometimes up to 300 trekkers on this section of the trail. Poon Hill is 3,210m above sea level and marks the highest point on the trek.

From the top, you will experience that view, all 360 degrees of it! Mountains stretch as far as the eye can see – 30 of the devils. The tallest are Annapurna (26 545 feet), Annapurna South (23,684 feet), Dhaulagiri (26,795 feet), Hiunchuli (21 132 feet), Lamjung Himal (22 707 feet), Machapurhre (22 943 feet), Nilgiri (22 769 feet) and Tukuche (22,703 feet). This is a sight you will remember to your dying day.

After spending a good hour or two at the top of Poon Hill, you will descend back to Ghorepani, where you will encounter the green landscapes, local birds, rocks, waterfalls and wild animals you might have missed due to poor visibility on the way up.

After Ghorepani, you will descend to the beauteous Gurung village of Ghandruk, home of the Gurkhas, which sits in the lap of the Annapurnas, foothills of the Himalayas. The Gurungs are one of Nepal’s largest ethnic groups and they have their own dialect, clothing and lifestyle. This village is well-known for its traditional houses, rich culture and great landscape, but it also has an incongruously respectable internet service. If you choose not to partake of the culture at first hand, there is a museum dedicated to it, which is well worth the visit.

Day three is a fairly long affair – approximately 10-12 hours (including time spent at Poon Hill).

Day 4: Ghandruk to Deurali

On day four, you descend rapidly through forests, which will take its toll on your knees (good idea to have trekking poles for this section of the trek). The trail eases after three-and-a-half hours’ walking. You will end the day at the small village of Deurali, which sits at the end of a forested path, and is in fact not far from a road that could take you back to Pokhara if you were pushed for time.

Total trekking time on day 4 is 8-10 hours. The Hotel Trekkers Inn in Deurali is a cheap and cheerful place to rest your head.

Day 5: Deurali back to Pokhara

The fifth day takes you to a permit check point at Pothana, where there is road access and you can get a taxi back to Pokhara. Some trekkers continue on to the Annapurna Eco Lodge where you can overnight or catch a taxi back to Pokhara via Nayapul. The trek on this day is short (4-5 hours) and mostly across flat land.

Poon Hill Hike FAQ

How much does the poon hill trek cost.

The cost of a Poon Hill Trek is about $1000 per person . This includes transportation, travel documents, accommodation, food and drinks, hiking gear etc. The cost is ultimately determined by which tour option you choose. 

There are essentially three ways to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek: 

• Unassisted (i.e. no guide or porter)
• Assisted (with a guide and/or porter) and
• With a tour operator 

Costs vary depending on which way you choose to organise your trek but generally the following costs can be expected: 

• Flights to and from KTM-Pokhara: US$150
• Taxis to and from Pokhara-Nayapul: US$30
• Teahouses (Average of 350 Rupees per night for 5 nights): US$20
• Food (Average of 300-400 Rupees per meal / 15 meals): US$50
• Water (Average of 3 litres a day at 60 Rupees a litre / 15 litres in total): US$10
• Permits (Annapurna Conservation Permit + TIMS Trekking Permit + Commission): US$35
• Guides / Porters (US$25 per day for a guide, US$15 for a porter): US$200
• Rentals of gear (assume US$50 on average): US$50
• Spare cash for miscellaneous things: US$50
• US$600-700 per person on average

You could shave this down to US$200 per person if you went unassisted, used a bus to get to Pokhara and budgeted carefully through-out. You should expect to pay closer to US$900-1300 per person (including airfare and accommodation in KTM and Pokhara) if you used a Nepal trekking company to organise the full tour. If you would like a recommendation on a tour company, check out this article on finding the best trekking agency in Nepal .

Are permits required for the Poon Hill hike?

Yes, two permits are required to undertake the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek: the Annapurna Conservation Permit , costing 1,000 Rupees per person (an earth-shattering US$12), and the TIMS Trekker’s Permit, which will set you back 1,825 Rupees (US$18 per person). These can be secured for you by your guest house or tour operator, who will generally charge a commission fee of 500 Rupees.

When is the best time to trek to Poon Hill?

The best seasons for Poon Hill trek are spring (March to May), and autumn (from mid-September to mid-December). The weather will be warm by day and the sky clear. Views are outstanding. At night, temperatures can be below freezing. Trekking in winter is possible but less popular.

Towards December, the weather starts getting particularly cold and the routes get distinctly quieter. If you are a hardened trekker a winter Annapurna Circuit (late December through February) can provide a very authentic experience out of trekking season in Nepal .

The main challenge of a winter trek, apart from the cold, is the snow and ice that often obstructs the higher trails and the Thorung Pass. During bad winter seasons, these trails may be closed.

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

Yes, altitude sickness is a risk on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek because it ascends to some high-altitude points. At its highest point, you will reach an altitude of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). There is a steep section on this trek where you will ascend very rapidly.

That's why it is important to have a solid understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises to high altitude. We recommend you read our detailed article on Altitude Sickness and Acclimatisation .

How difficult is the Poon Hill Trek?

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered one of the easier treks in Nepal and older hikers and young families often complete the trek. You will need a basic level of fitness as you will be walking for some miles for at least 5 days.

What gear do I need to pack for the Poon Hill hike?

You need a number of essential pieces of trekking gear for hiking the Poon Hill trek.

Much of your gear can be rented or bought in Kathmandu, but we strongly suggest bringing the most important pieces of gear and equipment with you. To help you plan and prepare for your trek, we recommend reading our hiking gear packing list .

Do I need insurance for the Poon Hill Trek?

Yes, you need trekking insurance for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. If an accident or incident should occur that requires immediate medical assistance and evacuation, you will most definitely want adequate trekking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment.

Make sure you have insurance that covers you for any travel related risks, like lost, stolen, damaged or delayed baggage, interruptions and flight delays and tour operators' default.

Please read our article on  Insurance for trekking Nepal , which provides great information on what type of insurance you'd need.

Are there any recommended guidebooks for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek? 

Yes, there are a few guidebooks that we recommend for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. There are two excellent guidebooks that provide specific information on the trek and the overall region.

Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya (Travel Guide) by Bradley Mayhew, Joe Bindloss and Lonely Planet is the best all-round trekking guide for Nepal. It includes 30 detailed itineraries on the most popular routes, including the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, Everest Base Camp hike and the Annapurna Circuit.

There's also Annapurna: A Trekker’s Guide (New edition – 2013) by Sian Pritchard-Jones and Bob Gibbons, which is the most authoritative guide on the Annapurna region with specific information on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.

You are also welcome to have a look at our recommended library of Nepal books and guidebooks for more options.

Continue browsing

See more information on  Nepal . Or check out these other Nepal hiking articles:

• Kala Patthar Trek
• Island Peak Trails
• Trekking the Rolwaling
• Panchase Hikes
• Trekking the Jomsom Muktinath
• Kanchenjunga Base Camp Hikes
• Rara Lake hike
• Climbing Mera Peak
• Hiking the Helambu route
• Mustang Circuit Trek
• Gokyo Lakes Hike
• Hiking to Makalu Base Camp
• Trekking to Gosainkunda
• Limi Valley hike

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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Hello I am headed to Nepal in May with a couple friends and we are experienced trekkers. We are looking for a challenging route that can be done in less than 10 days. Any help would be most appreciated.

Hey Aaron, if you only have 10 days then check out the Annapurna Base Camp trek or Langtang Trek. All the best!

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The Poon Hill Trek Itinerary: one week in the Annapurnas

This post offers you the ultimate guide to the best one week Poon Hill trek itinerary. The Poon Hill trek, also known as the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek or the Annapurna Panorama, is one of the shortest multi-day hikes in Nepal .

Short, but sweet. Therefore it is perfect for those who don’t have the time for Everest or the whole Annapurna Circuit . The Poon Hill trek offers natural beauty, cultural diversity, rural villages and spectacular mountain views.

Why choose the Poon Hill trek?

While the Ghorepani Poon hill trek is still not a walk in the park, it is an easy hike for beginners. Perfect for families with children or those that are looking for an easygoing experience in Nepal . 

The Poon hill trek goes through the lower foothills of the Annapurnas. Therefore, there is no risk of altitude sickness, yet there are plenty of views on the snow capped mountain peaks of the Annapurna’s. Most of them are well over 7000 meters high.

The highlight is seeing the sunrise at Poon Hill, the highest point of the trek. It offers the most beautiful panorama of the Annapurna’s and you can get there in only 2 days of hiking. The trail continues through terraced slopes, rice paddies, maize fields, lush forests and rural villages.

The Annapurna is a very multicultural area with different ethnic groups. Along the Poon hill trek you will mostly encounter Magar and Gurung people. Each group has their own language and cultural traditions. 

The advantage of the Poon hill trek are the excellent tea houses and restaurants on the way. This means you can be very flexible in planning your Poon hill trek itinerary. It can be as short as 4 days or you can combine it with the Annapurna Circuit or the Annapurna Base Camp. It is then a great acclimatization trek before going to higher altitudes.

The Annapurna’s are one of the most popular areas for trekking in Nepal . If you are looking for a more off the beaten path short trek I can also recommend the Langtang Trek or the Jiri to Lukla trek . 

The Poon Hill trek itinerary

I had a full week when I decided to do the Poon hill trek in February and therefore chose to add Chomrong to my itinerary. It adds just one extra day and Chomrong is a beautiful village located on the Annapurna Sanctuary trek. It is also possible to walk from Tadapani straight to Ghandruk and then back to Kimche/Nayapul.  

In this Poon hill trek itinerary I mention every day the amount of time it took me from start to finish. I am a slow hiker though. I like to take frequent breaks to enjoy the beautiful views. If you are fit , you can probably do it in less time

Day 1: Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedunga

10 kilometers, 5 – 6 hours

This Poon hill trek itinerary starts at Nayapul. From Pokhara’s Baglung bus station there are frequent buses to Nayapul. The journey takes about 2 hours. From here it is a 30 minute walk or short jeep ride to Birethanti. Jeeps can now bring you all the way to Hille, but I prefered to walk. 

After Birethanti it is an easy and gradual uphill walk towards Tikhedhunga. I thought it was very scenic as you walk past the Bhurungdi river through small villages and terraced farm fields. People are very friendly and always greet you with a smile. A great first day on the trail that seemed lightyears away from the hectic city of Kathmandu .

Day 3: Tikhedunga – Ghorepani 

11 kilometers, 8 hours

The second day of the Poon hill trek itinerary is the most challenging day. You immediately start with a diificult 2 kilometer staircase up to Ulleri. There are more than 3000 steps. But even after Ulleri you keep climbing for the rest of the day. Sometimes rather steep, sometimes more gradual, but up it is. In total you will ascend more than 1300 meters. 

The key to enjoy this day on your Poon hill trek itinerary is to start early and take it slow. Ulleri is a nice Magar village with plenty of teahouses for a break. After Ulleri you will enter lush forests with the occasional waterfall and blooming rhododendrons in spring. 

I found this to be a very scenic part of the Poon hill trek, so don’t forget to look around you once in a while. It was during a small break that I spotted langur monkeys in the trees. 

The gate of Ghorepani and the blue hotel roofs were a very welcome sight. That’s when I found out there is a lower and an upper Ghorepani. Although it was tempting to stay in the first lodge I came across, I pushed myself further to Upper Ghorepani to shorten the climb to Poon hill the next morning

Insider tip : Ghorepani is the highest village where you will sleep at night. Even in the warmer months of spring and summer it can be cold here, so bring warm clothes.  

Day 4: Ghorepani – Poonhill – Tadapani

13 kilometers, 7 hours  

The third day of the Poon hill trek itinerary is all about the sunset on Poon Hill. This means an early wake up around 3:30 AM. Even in the dark, the trail is easy to follow as there will be lots of other hikers. You can simply follow the lights of the headlamps.

I still felt my muscles from yesterday and they struggled with more climbing as well as the altitude. It took me a little bit over an hour to reach the top. Just in time for the sunrise. 

Now I understood why this trek is also known as the Annapurna Panorama. Right in front of me I saw Mount Daulagiri (8167), Mount Manaslu (8156), Mount Annapurna II (7937),  Machapuchre (6993) and other peaks well above 6000 meters.

Certainly the best breakfast view I ever had as I sat down with my snickers bar that I brought specially for this occasion. The incredible views continued on my hike along the mountain ridge towards Deurali. 

After Deurali the trail goes downhill and enters the forests again. No Langur monkeys today, but views on Annapurna II and Machapuchare remained visible till I reach Tadapani.  

Insider tips : a headlight torch and warm clothes are necessary for the early morning climb to Poonhill. There are no restaurants at poon hill itself so bring some snacks and a thermos opf tea for a breakfast picknick at the top.

Day 5: Tadapani – Chomrong

8 kilometers, 6 hours

This day is not in the original Poon hill trek itinerary. Most people head straight from Tadapani to Ghandruk and then back to Pokhara. I decided to add Chomrong to my Poon hill trek itinerary. I did not have time to include the whole Annapurna Sanctuary trek, but just wanted to have a little taste. 

Did it taste like more? Yes, definitely. More views on the Annapurna mountain peaks are waiting for you in Chomrong. I would have loved to continue all the way to Annapurna Base Camp. Maybe next time?

What I also loved about this day was that the trail from Tadapani to Chomrong was less busy than the previous days. The only people I met were friendly locals that were working in the terraced fields.  

Day 6: Chomrong – Ghandruk

10 kilometers, 6 hours

Today was more challenging than I thought. First there was a long descent, but after crossing the river I had to climb back up to Ghandruk. The views on Machapuchre kept me motivated till I reached Ghandruk. 

Ghandruk is one of the largest Gurung villages in the Annapurna’s and gives you a wonderful insight into rural life in Nepal. The narrow alleyways are dotted with lodges and traditional farm houses. It is one of the most scenic villages on the Poon hill trek. 

Day 7: Ghandruk – Nayapul

9 kilometers, 5 hours

From Ghandruk it is now a short hike of 2 kilometers to Kimche. There you can find transport to Birethanti, Nayapul and Pokhara.

Very few people still walk all the way to Nayapul, but I did not want to say goodbye to the mountains yet. Walking from Ghandruk to Nayapul is an easy gentle descent through the lush greenery of the modi khola river valley. 

There is lots of nice scenery with rice paddies and villages. That said, you don’t miss out a lot if you do decide to take the bus. For me it was a bit of a culture shock to be back in a busy town like Nayapul. Within minutes I could catch a bus back to Pokhara. 

The Poon Hill Trek Travel tips

The poon hill trek permits.

For the Poon hill trek you need two permits.

TIMS card : The Trekkers information management card is necessary for almost all treks in Nepal. You can get your TIMS card at the Tourism Board office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. Bring your passport and two passport size photos. The TIMS card costs 2000 nepalese rupees.  

Annapurna Conservation Area permit : For the Poon hill trek you also need a national park entrance permit. I recommend you to get it as well at the Tourism Board Office at Bhrikuti Mandap in Kathmandu. This costs 3000 nepalese rupees.  

Do I need a guide on the Poon Hill trek?

The Poon hill trek is easy to do without a guide. Unless you go off season there will be enough other hikers on the trail to keep you company. That said, the area around Poon hill has lots of different paths that cross each other, making it easy to get lost if you don’t pay attention.   

I was with a friend that had done the hike before and knew the way. If you are alone and not that experienced you might want to consider joining a guided trek or hiring a guide, porter or porter guide. 

In Nepal there is a clear distinction between a porter and a guide. A guide shows you the way and can tell you more about the history and the culture of the places you visit. A porter will only carry your luggage. Despite their heavy burden they often walk far in front of you and might have reached the lodge when you are only midway. A porterguide is less common, but does both. 

If you prefer a female guide I can recommend the 3 sisters adventure trekking that works to empower women and trains women to become trekking guides in Nepal.  

Update April 2023 : The Nepal Tourism Board issued a press release that trekking without a guide is no longer permitted from 1 April 2023 onwards. Trekkers planning to hike in Nepal’s National Parks where you normally need a TIM’s card should have a government licensed guide that is registered with the official Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) . It is unclear yet how this rule will play out in practice. Everest issued a press release stating that they will not enforce it. Other areas do. However, there are no guidelines on how they are going to implement the ban on solo trekking .

Accomodation on the Poon Hill trek

Along the Poon hill trek there is plenty of accomodation and teahouses to choose from. They are basic and can’t be booked online beforehand. There is a first come first serve basis and some lodges are fully booked by big tour groups. In my experience there are enough lodges. There will always be a bed for you somewhere. 

The prices of accomodation is incredibly cheap, sometimes even free, but they do expect you to order dinner and breakfast at their establishment. 

Food on the Poon Hill trek

The good thing about tea house treks in Nepal is that however basic lodges might be, the food is often quite good if you stick to Nepali cuisine . Yes, many lodges try all kinds of international dishes to attract tourists, but in my opinion, often not the best choice.

When trekking in Nepal I eat Dahl bath at least once a day. This national dish of rice with lentils knows a huge variety in how it is prepared. Different vegetable curries from fermented spinach (gundruk) to roasted cauliflower and different pickles (aachar) to spice it up. Not one dahl bath is the same. 

Other Nepali foods to try are Tibetan bread, Thukpa and Momo’s.  On the Poon hill trek you also get a chance to taste Gurung cuisine. One of my favourite side dishes with dahl baath actually comes from the Gurung people. Gundruk is a curry made of fermented leafy vegetables. Dried meats (sukuti) are also very popular among the Gurungs. Definetly try dried buffalo (buff sukuti) if you get a chance.

When to hike the Poon Hill trek

The best time to go trekking in Nepal is spring and autumn, but Poon hill is even possible in winter. Although January and February will be too cold for high altitude treks, the poon hill trek is still a good option. I hiked in February and had clear blue skies every day. It is important to bring some warm clothes. As soon as the sun is gone it can get cold, especially at Ghorepani.

March, April and May are the warmer months before the monsoon. As the rainy season approaches it can become hot, dusty and humid. The blooming rhododendrons are a big highlight though when hiking around April.

June, July and August are the monsoon months. These are probably the worst time to hike the lower altitudes of the Annapurna’s. Not only because of the rain, but most of all, because of the leeches. Annoying as they can be, they are not dangerous. These months it is better to visit Jomsom and Muktinath, because they are in the rain shadow of the Annapurna’s.  

September, October and November are the most popular months for trekking. Autumn brings clear blue skies and mild temperatures before the cold sets in, in December. Autumn is also a festive season with the celebration of Tihar and Dashain. Nepal’s biggest festivals and you will see families gathering together in the villages.   

Altitude Sickness on the Poon Hill trek

The Poon hill trek has a very low chance of altitude sickness. The highest point is Poon Hill at 3250 meters high. Here you might experience some mild symptoms such as being tired and more easily out of breath. However, as you will descend to lower altitudes on the same day, this should not pose a problem. 

Poon Hill Trek Books and Guides

Cicerone and Trailblazer both have excellent and comprehensive guides about treks in the Annapurnas including the Poon Hill trek. Another option is the Lonely Planet’s Trekking in the Nepal Himalayas guide.

Poon Hill Trek packing list

If you need to carry your own gear on a multi day trek, the advice is to bring as little as possible. The Poon hill trek is not a difficult trail. There is no need to bring a tent or food. Below a few things to consider

Sun protection : no matter what time of the year you will need to bring protection against the sun. Sunscreen and a hat are a must. There are stretches with little shadow

Rain protection : there is always a risk of rain. I brought a poncho along that protected both me and my backpack from the rain.

Sturdy shoes : There is no need for proffesional hiking boots. However, there are some rocky trails so do bring sturdy shoes that fit you well. It’s important you don’t bring brand new shoes. Make sure your shoes are tested and comfortable to prevent blisters.

Hiking socks : Besides good shoes, good hiking socks are key to prevent blisters. Merino wool socks are lightweight and dry quickly. Wrightsocks are specially designed with double layers to prevent blisters.

Layers : there can be a big difference in temperatures during the day and night. The best way to deal with this is to wear layers. As a base layer I bought merino wool tshirts at Decathlon. They are lightweight and dry quickly. I had a fleece vest as a midlayer and as the upper layer I had a windproof jacket.

Backpack : Your shoes and backpack are two things that will have a big influence on the comfort of your multi day trek. I recommend to go to an outdoor store to get some good advice to buy a backpack that fits your torso length and that is comfortable when you wear it. I own the Osprey Fairview trek 50 that I am very happy with.

Reusable water bottle : to prevent plastic waste I always bring a reusable water bottle with me and a water filter or steri pen.  

Sustainable Travel on the Poon Hill Trek

The Poon Hill trek is one of the most popular hikes in Nepal. The trails become more crowded and pollution is a growing problem. Traveling sustainably to the Himalayas is essential to minimize your environmental impact and preserve the area’s natural beauty for future generations.

Support the local community : You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors. It is better to try Nepali Cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Nepali food is vegetarian friendly and it is very easy to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

You can try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Leave no trace principle : When hiking the Poon Hill Trek, stick to designated trails to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. Straying off the marked paths can cause soil erosion and damage to plant life. If you are lucky enough to spot wildlife, observe quietly from a distance to prevent disruption to their habitats and help maintain their natural behaviors.

I encourage you to take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to be sensitive of the community’s way of life. Nepal is a multicultural country and on the trail you will encounter different ethnic groups.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Nepali, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a travel guide about the Poon Hill trek in Nepal contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

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Poon Hill Trek Itinerary – 3, 4, and 5 Days

Trekking in Nepal / December 28, 2021 by fulltimeexplorer / Leave a Comment

The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular treks in Nepal due to its short time frame. A common misconception is that it’s an easy trek, however, the Poon Hill trek is surprisingly difficult. Poon Hill is a small hilltop located above the popular village of Ghorepani inside of the Annapurna Conservation Area. It’s located at 3,200 m (10,500 ft), and on a clear day you can see the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Range. Here’s everything you need to know before setting off on your trip.

Poon Hill Trek Map

Note: This map should not be used for navigational purposes. It is just meant to give an idea of the route and may not be perfectly to scale. Download maps.me on your phone for an accurate offline map that is free to use.

Poon Hill Trek Overview

Trek duration.

The Poon Hill trek can be done in three to four days. While three days is entirely possible, it’s a rushed trek that won’t be very enjoyable. We did the four day route and still found it challenging for a number of reasons. Those who have the time and want a more enjoyable experience should aim for five days.

Poon Hill Difficulty Level

People often think of Poon Hill as an easy trek because it’s only three days long and because so many people do it, but that’s a misconception. The Poon Hill Trek is almost entirely uphill on a steep staircase for the first two days. We met another trekker who turned back on day two. He joked that he was on vacation, and this wasn’t at all relaxing. If you are nervous about the difficulty level, you can add a day to the itinerary to break up the hard parts. Those who are worried about the steep uphill climbs may want to consider hiring a porter to carry your bag as it will make it a lot easier.

Required Permits

This trek requires an ACAP entry permit which costs 3,000 rupees (about $26 USD). You can get this permit at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You will need your passport and two copies of your passport photo as well as cash.

Trek History

According to locals, the Poon Hill Trek started to become popular in the 70’s and 80’s. It passed through small existing villages which later expanded due to the need for accommodations.

Best Time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

All the locals agree that the best time to do this trek is October or November followed by March or April when the rhododendrons are in bloom. This is not a good route to trek in monsoon (May-September) as the small streams become raging rivers, landslides happen along the trekking route, and there are leeches. You can do this trek in the winter however it will be cold at night as there is no heat in the teahouses.

Poon Hill Height

3,200 m (10,500 ft)

Poon Hill Trail Info

The Poon Hill trekking trail starts with a large stone staircase that is steep but manageable if you go slowly. In the areas that aren’t so steep, a wide dirt path runs through the forest. The path is well maintained as it’s one of the more popular trekking routes in Nepal.

Navigating the Poon Hill Trek

While the trail is extremely easy to navigate, I do recommend inexperienced trekkers to take a guide. If you are an experienced trekker and plan to go alone, you can download Maps.me which is a free offline map that shows trekking routes and your live location.

Packing List

I have an entire post for my packing list as it was too long to include in this post. You can check it out here… Poon Hill Packing List

I also have an entire post dedicated to my budget and how much we spent on the trek. You can check it out here… Poon Hill Trekking Cost

Poon Hill Trek Itinerary Options 

Poon hill trek 3 days.

A lot of trekking agencies recommend a really difficult three day route to Poon Hill. This itinerary requires taking a jeep past the first major town to save time. Because the jeep will be going off the major highway, it will be more expensive. I only recommend this itinerary for those on a major time crunch as the days are long and difficult. You’ll often leave early in the morning and arrive just before the sun sets. Most of the days are 7 hours of walking (mostly uphill) not including lunch or tea breaks.

Day 1 – Pokhara to Tikhedhungga by jeep. Then, walk to Ghorepani. (6 hours and 30 minutes walking time)

Check road conditions as there are sometimes landslides between Birethanti and Tikhedhungga and you may need to walk part of the way.

Day 2 – Sunrise hike to Poon Hill. Then, walk from Ghorepani to Ghandruk. (9 hours and 45 minutes walking time)

Day 3 – Ghandruk to Pokhara by Jeep.

Poon Hill Trek 4 Days

The four day trek is what we opted to do, and it’s the more popular choice since it gives you more time to enjoy the trek. The main difference between this and the three day trek is that you get to break up the first day.

Day 1 – Pokhara to Tikhedhungga by jeep. Then, walk to Banthanti. (3 hours and 30 minutes walking time straight uphill)

Day 2 – Walk from Banthanti to Ghorepani. (3 hours walking time)

Day 3 – Sunrise hike to Poon Hill. Then, walk from Ghorepani to Ghandruk. (9 hours and 45 minutes walking time)

Day 4 – Explore Ghandruk. Ghandruk to Pokhara by Jeep. Option to walk part of the way back to Pokhara to save money.

Poon Hill Trek 5 Days – Easy Option

If you’ve never gone trekking before, are out of shape, or are not used to walking uphill constantly and are nervous about this trek, you can do a five day variation to make it easier. This itinerary breaks up the first day and the trek from Ghorepani to Ghandruk which is over 9 hours if you include the sunrise trek to Poon Hill. Plus, you’ll get to Ghandruk early enough on day four to explore the picturesque mountain village.

Day 3 – Sunrise hike to Poon Hill and walk from Ghorepani to Tadapani. (6 hours and 45 minutes walking time)

Day 4 – Walk from Tadapani to Ghandruk. (3 hours walking time)

Day 4 – Ghandruk to Pokhara by Jeep

Poon Hill Trek 5 Days – Including Dhampus

If you want to make this trek a little longer, you can add one day going to Dhampus. It’s a long walk, but Dhampus is another popular village with beautiful mountain views. This will mean that day three and four are both long days of walking. You can get a Jeep from Dhampus which will cut down on costs and driving time a little.

Day 4 – Walk from Ghandruk to Dhampus. (8 hours walking time)

Day 5 – Dhampus to Pokhara by Jeep

Poon Hill Trek – Detailed Itinerary Breakdown (4 day itinerary)

Day 1 – pokhara to tikhedhungga to banthanti.

Tikhedhungga Altitude:  1,540 m (5,052 ft)

Banthanti Altitude:  2,210 m (7,250 ft)

Daily Altitude Increase:  670 m (2,198 ft)

Oxygen Concentration:  78% compared to 100% at sea level

Driving Time:  2-3 hours depending on the road conditions and time of year. We went in monsoon and were unable to take the jeep all the way because of landslides. However, there are jeeps that run from Lamdawali up to Ulleri. You just need to walk part of the way to get to them.

Walking Time:  2 hours and 30 minutes from Tikhedhungga to the top of Ulleri. 1 hour from Ulleri to Banthanti. Total time of 3 hours 30 minutes (not including lunch or tea breaks).

Distance: 3 km (1.9 miles) walking distance

Difficulty Level:  Very Difficult

Teahouse: Mountain View Lodge in Banthanti

The walk from Tikhedhungga to Banthanti is difficult as it goes almost straight uphill. If you are going in the warmer months, it can also be extremely hot as much of the trail is in the direct sunlight with little reprieve from trees. It’s important to have enough water with you and a good sunscreen. I’d also recommend some electrolytes to stay hydrated.

The good thing about this route is that there are tons of places to stop and rest along the way including many teahouses. The route is well maintained and the uphill sections are stairs made out of large rocks. The route up to Ulleri is the hardest, but it’s not as steep going to Banthanti.

Day 2 – Banthanti to Ghorepani

Ghorepani Altitude:  2,880 m (9,448 ft)

Oxygen Concentration:  72% compared to 100% at sea level

Walking Time:  2 hours from Banthanti to Nangge Thanti. 1 hour from Nangge Thanti to Ghorepani. Total walking time of 3 hours (not including lunch or tea breaks).

Distance: 6.6km (4.1 miles)

Difficulty Level:  Moderate

Teahouse: Nice View Lodge

Most people walk from Tikhedhungga to Ghorepani in one day, but it’s not at all enjoyable. By splitting it up, you can have an easy second day. Most of day two is a nice trail going through beautiful woods. You have protection from the sun and get to enjoy passing streams and listening to nature. This was my favorite part of the walk. It is longer in distance but the uphills are not so steep and you can take your time walking it.

You’ll likely get to Ghorepani before lunch and have most of the day there to hang out. Ghorepani is a fairly modern village with a lot of amenities like hot water, bookstores, small shops, and bakeries. You can take a hot shower, hang out and read a book while drinking a cappuccino. It’s not a bad place to spend a little extra time.

Day 3 – Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Ghandruk

Poon Hill Altitude:  3,193 m (10,475 ft)

Ghandruk Altitude:  2,012 m (6,601 ft)

Daily Altitude Increase:  313 m (1,029 ft) up to Poon Hill

Oxygen Concentration:  69% compared to 100% at sea level

Walking Time:  1 hour up to Poon Hill. 40 minutes down to Ghorepani. 5 hours from Ghorepani to Tadapani. 2 hours and 45 minutes from Tadapani to Ghandruk. Total walking time 9 hours 30 minutes (not including breakfast, lunch, tea breaks, or time to take photos at Poon Hill)

Distance: 11.25 km (7 miles)

Hotel: Danda Gaun Hotel

Day three is a long and difficult day. Typically, when trekking in Nepal, you go to viewpoints before the sun rises to ensure a better view as that is when the sky is the clearest. This means leaving your teahouse around 4:30 am to climb to Poon Hill. The route is completely uphill on a stone path. You’ll get there around 5:30 am and have a half hour for photos and to see the sunrise (check the sunrise time with locals as it varies throughout the year). The entry fee to Poon Hill is 100 rupees and there is a tea stand at the top, so bring cash with you.

After the sunrise, it takes about 30-40 minutes to come back down to Ghorepani where you can have breakfast. Make sure to order it the night before so that it’s ready when you arrive. You should be back to Ghorepani by 6:45a m. After you eat breakfast and pack, you should leave for Ghandruk no later than 8:00 am so that you can be in Tadapani at 1:00pm for lunch. If you are really tired when you arrive, you can opt to spend a night in Tadapani.

When you leave Ghorepani, there’s a slight uphill climb to start which offers nice views on a clear day. After you reach the small village of Deurali, you’ll walk along a small river with beautiful waterfalls along the way. We went during monsoon and had to walk a little slow because parts of it are a steep downhill on slippery rocks. The route is absolutely gorgeous though and is my favorite part of this trek.

After the small village of Ban Thanti (a different Ban Thanti than the one you slept in), you’ll go through the jungle with a lot of up and down hills. Some of the route is steep making it more difficult. From there you’ll arrive in Tadapani where you should eat lunch before moving on.

After Tadapani, it’s a small trail through the jungle with a moderate slope which isn’t too difficult. This lasts over an hour until you reach a stone trail that wraps around the outside of the hills. From here you can see Ghandruk in the distance and it’s about an hour walk to “Old Ghandruk”. Overall, this day is difficult because it is so long. We arrived at Ghandruk around 5:00pm and were completely exhausted.

Day 4 – Ghandruk to Pokhara by jeep

Driving Time:  2-3 hours depending on the road. It took us a little longer to get back to Pokhara because there had been a landslide that took out part of the road. They were literally rebuilding it, and we had to park and wait for 45 minutes. We went in monsoon (not recommended), so this likely won’t be an issue other times of the year.

Since you don’t have to walk anywhere, I’d highly recommend spending a little time in the morning walking around Ghandruk. This village is super cute and full of character. There are even two museums in the town which focus on the village’s history and on Gurung people who are native to the area.

Poon Hill Trek Village Guides

Tirkhedhunga Village Guide

Ghorepani Village Guide

Ghandruk Village Guide

You might also like…

Michelle della giovanna.

Writer at Full Time Explorer

I’m just your average New Yorker who quit her job in the fashion industry to explore the world. Come find out what it’s like to trade in five-inch heels for squat toilets.

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Poon Hill Trek – Ultimate Guide to Small Annapurna Circuit

The Poon Hill Trek is a popular and breathtaking trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is known for its stunning mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. This trek takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and charming villages, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Poon Hill Trek Overview

Poon Hill Trek is a popular trek in Nepal that takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, terraced fields, traditional villages, and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks.

The trek is typically completed in 4-7 days, Depending on starting and ending in points. The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill, which offers stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas.

The highlight of the Poon Hill Trek is reaching the viewpoint of Poon Hill, which offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including iconic peaks such as Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The sunrise view from Poon Hill is particularly breathtaking, with the golden rays of the sun illuminating the snow-capped peaks, creating a magical spectacle.

The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The highest altitude reached during the trek is around 3,210 meters (10,532 feet), making it a great option for those looking to experience high-altitude trekking without extensive acclimatization.

Required Permits:

An Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required for the Poon Hill Trek, which can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Additionally, a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card is also required, which can be obtained in Pokhara.

Accommodation:

Tea houses, also known as guesthouses or lodges, are available along the trail for accommodation. These basic lodges provide simple meals and twin-sharing rooms with basic facilities such as beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Hot showers and Wi-Fi may be available at an additional cost.

It’s recommended to carry a sleeping bag as the temperature can drop significantly at night, especially during the winter months.

Packing List:

• Clothing : Layering is key, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Pack warm clothes, including a down jacket, thermal inner wear, waterproof and windproof outerwear, trekking pants, hiking boots , socks, gloves, and a hat.
• Equipment: Bring a good quality backpack , trekking poles , sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, headlamp, and a first aid kit with essential medications.
• Food and Water: Carry snacks, energy bars, and a reusable water bottle. Avoid drinking untreated water and use water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure safe drinking water.
• Miscellaneous: Don’t forget to bring a camera, chargers, cash (Nepalese Rupees), a trekking map, and travel insurance.

Trekking Itinerary for Poon Hill Trek 5 days

• Day 1: Nayapul to Tikhedhunga (1st day of trekking)
• Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2nd day of trekking)
• Day 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (early morning hike for sunrise view) and then to Tadapani (3rd day of trekking)
• Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (4th day of trekking)
• Day 5: Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara (5th day of trekking)

Tips for a Successful Poon Hill Trek:

Acclimatization:.

Take time to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid ascending too quickly to prevent altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, eat well, and listen to your body. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, dizziness, nausea, or difficulty breathing, descend to a lower altitude immediately and seek medical attention if needed.

Weather Conditions at Poon Hill:

Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including cold temperatures, rain, and snow. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

Trekking Guides and Porters:

Hiring a local guide or porter is mandatory as per Nepal Government’s Law starting from 1st of April, 2023. A guide can provide valuable information about the local culture, flora, and fauna, and a porter can carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek more comfortably.

Physical Fitness for Poon Hill Trek:

Poon Hill Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, but it does require a good level of physical fitness. Prepare yourself with regular exercise, such as walking or hiking, before the trek to build stamina and endurance.

Trail Etiquette:

Respect the local culture and traditions. Be polite and friendly to the locals you encounter along the trail. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their belongings. Avoid littering and use designated trash bins or carry out your waste.

Food and Water:

Stick to hygienic food practices and avoid raw or undercooked food. Drink boiled or purified water to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Safety and Preparedness:

Stay on the marked trail and avoid shortcuts. Be aware of the weather conditions and follow the instructions of your guide, if hired. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit with essential medications and know how to use them. Have a contingency plan for emergencies and inform someone about your trekking plans.

Cultural Experience:

The Poon Hill Trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the local culture of the ethnic communities along the trail, such as the Gurung and Magar people. Interact with the locals, learn about their customs, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Conclusion:

The Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is a beautiful and rewarding trek that offers stunning mountain views, cultural experiences, and a chance to immerse yourself in the Himalayan wilderness. With proper preparation, including obtaining the necessary permits, packing the right gear, and following safety guidelines, you can have a safe and memorable trekking experience in this beautiful region of Nepal.

Resources: Poon Hill Trek Website

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Poon Hill Trek: A Journey to the small summit of the Annapurna Region

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Poon Hill Trek

• Duration: 10 Days

Lodge to Lodge Trek

Private transport+tourist bus, breakfast + lunch + dinner, lodge to lodge, group size: 1-16 pax, highlights of poon hill trek.

• Enchanting trek along the trails in Annapurna region
• Witness captivating sunrise over the colossal giants in the Annapurna range from Poon Hill vantage point
• Rejoice in the heart-warming hospitality of the Gurung communities
• Enjoy the tour to the UNESCO enlisted world heritage sites in the Kathmandu valley

About Poon Hill Trek

One of the short and easy mountain trips in Nepal's Annapurna region is the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek . This trail has hundreds of trekkers daily because first-time trekkers, elderlies, and families can do it quickly. The Poon Hill viewpoint is a primary attraction of this trip, from where you can see magnificent views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan ranges with unblocked sunrise.

Hiking up to Poon Hill early morning to catch the sunrise view over the mighty Himalayas can be pretty tuff for someone. Still, it can be the best memory of the trip, which is why this trip is also known as Poon Hill Sunrise Trek .

The trek goes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages and rhododendron forests. The forests look amazing when the flowers bloom in spring.

Not just for beginners and families with kids, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking is a great trip even for experienced trekkers and hikers who are traveling to Nepal with limited time. It is a reputed trekking region with good facilities of lodges to stay and serve food from a food menu every place. It means you do not need a tent to sleep in and carry food for the trip.

Trekking to Poon Hill is an easy mountain activity, but it is not mean it is super flexible. However, you must have some physical training and be fit to walk a few hours on up and downhill trails. You will love the magnificent scenery on this trek. Still, you also will have an excellent opportunity to experience Magar and Gurung culture and lifestyle. The Magar and Gurung people are the local habitants in this region, who are familiar as the brave Gurkha Soldiers in the British and Indian regiments.

The regular itinerary of the Poon Hill trek is for five days, which makes a loop through Ghandruk Village, but it also can do in 2, 3, or 4 days. The trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp trek also walk through this trail at the beginning for a few days. Also, the Annapurna Circuit trek ends with visiting the Poon Hill.

5-Day Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Itinerary Overview

The 5-day Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking itinerary is classic and makes a circuit through Ghandruk. However, you can also complete this route in 4 days from Pokhara to Pokhara. If you do not have enough time, You can visit poon Hill and come back to Pokhara, taking 2 or 3 days. Here, you see an overview of a 5-day trekking itinerary of the Poon Hill Circuit trek.

You drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Birethanti in the morning and start walking through the Bhrungdi River valley on the first day of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. According to the classic trekking itinerary, Tikhedhunga is the first camp. Still, you can hike up to Ulleri on the first passing Tikhedhunga.

After spending the first night in Ulleri, you hike to Ghorepani on the second day. You will walk to Ghorepani inside a deep forest after Banthanti for a few hours. The Ghorepani village is between rhododendron forests with many buildings and colorful roofs. You sleep here and hike to poon Hill early morning to catch an unblocked sunrise and see magnificent mountain views on the third day during the Poon Hill circuit trek. After the Poon Hill visit, you walk back to the lodge, have breakfast, and then trek to Tadapani.

On the fourth trek day, go to Syauli Bazaar via Ghandruk Village. Alternatively, you can drive on the same day rather than stay in Syauli Bazaar today if you want to complete the trek in four days. While doing a 5-day trip, you walk to Birethanti for around 2 hours from Syauli Bazaar on the fifth day and drive back to Pokhara.

Please get in touch with us if you want to do a 2 or 3 days trek to Poon Hill , and then we provide detail with the cost. If you have more days with this trip, we offer different itineraries via Jhinu Hot Spring, Landruk, and Dhampus.

Poon Hill Trip Map

We have made a 10-day Poon Hill Trekking map from your arrival to the final departure home. According to our trip map, our airport representative picks you up from the Kathmandu International Airport on day one and transfers you to the hotel, where you meet a tour manager and talk about the next day's program after check-in at the hotel.

You will have a full-day Kathmandu tour on day two. You visit four UNESCO World Heritage sites during the day tour and trip meet in the evening. On day three, you drive to Pokhara, Nepal's second-biggest city, and stay overnight. After a night stay in Pokhara, you go to Birethanti, where you start walking.

You will be in the mountain from the day four to seven for the four nights and return to Pokhara on the day eight. After spending the second visit night in Pokhara, you drive back to Kathmandu on day nine and fly back home with a sweet memory of the Nepalese Himalayas on day ten to complete the Ghorepani Poon Hill trip.

Pokhara to Poon Hill

You can drive from Pokhara to Banthanti directly in a jeep and walk to Ghorepani in one day and visit Poon Hill the next morning. Still, according to our package, you will spend one night in between. You may return to Pokhara the next day if you have little time. You can also trek through Tadapani and Ghandruk, walk to Tatopani (hot spring), and drive to Pokhara if you have a few more days.

Ghandruk to Poon Hill

Ghandruk to Poon Hill is pretty tuff compared to the clockwise route. It is a long day walk on lots of up and downhill trails. You ascend from Ghandruk towards Tadapani for 3 hours through a dense forest and descend for around 15 minutes. You walk on the steep part for an hour here and will have a flat part until Banthanti for another half an hour. Again, you will climb for another 3-4 hours to Deurali and descend for half an hour for the final part to Ghorepani. So, Ghandruk to Poon Hill is doable but pretty hard for the first-time trekker, so going through the clockwise itinerary is highly recommended.

Best Time or Season to Trek to Poon Hill

You will enjoy a lot and see magnificent views if you are on the trek at the right time. Of course! We suggest you to travel to Poon Hill in autumn and spring. You can also visit in winter, but summer is not a perfect time to trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill. The clouds will cover the mountains most of the time in summer. However, other natural attractions like waterfalls, rivers, forests, and bright landscapes always look magnificent on this trekking route. Check the general information about the best time or season to trek to Poon Hill below:

Autumn Season

September to November is the autumn season in Nepal, which comes right after summer. Heavy rainfall in summer clears haze and makes the weather bright in autumn so that you can see colorful mountains, blue skies, and dark green forests at this time. Autumn is the biggest trekking season in Nepal and Poon Hill, so we recommend trekking if you want to explore the region with the best visibility and tolerable temperature.

Spring Season

The spring is the second biggest trekking season in Nepal and also for the Ghorepani. Many rhododendron trees are around the Ghorepani Poon Hill trail, so blooming flowers make the forest colorful in spring. The spring is a dry season, so there will be deep haze in this season in the lower area, but you can see magnificent views from Poon Hill. There might be some snowfall in the higher altitudes, and hail falls with a strong wind in the evening at this time.

What Makes the Trek Memorable?

There must be some expectation for everyone when they plan to travel, so trekkers also might have a desire to see something which makes their trip memorable and a lifetime experience while planning a trek to Poon Hill. So, what makes this trip unique then? Let's check them below:

Poon Hill Viewpoint

The Poon Hill Station is the major highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. You will hike to this vantage viewpoint from Ghorepani early in the morning with a flashlight, which takes a maximum of an hour. You will see magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri I -IV, Tukuche Peak, Gurja Himal, and Dampus Peak of Dhaulagiri massif, and Nilgiri South, Baraha Shikhar, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and Annapurna II of the Annapurna massif with unblocked sunrise.

You can also see captivating landscapes, valleys, the zenith of green hills, pristine forests (especially when the rhododendron bloom), and more natural attractions from Poon Hill. There are a couple of hundred visitors every day who will enjoy this hill station's natural beauty.

Note: Make sure you are hiking to Poon Hill when the weather is crystal clear and perfect visibility.

Traditional Gurung and Magar Villages

You will walk through typical Gurung and Magar Villages during the Ghorepani trekking. You see magnificent architecture with stone roofs on most of the buildings in the Villages. You will pass Ghandruk on this trip, the region's most significant Gurung Village. You will also see the lifestyle of these ethnic people and experience their culture on this trek.

Traced Rice Fields and Captivating Landscapes

The trekking trail to Ghorepani Poon Hill begins and ends around a thousand meters altitude, where you see well-traced rice fields. You will see different farming lands in the higher regions, where farmers plant millet, buckwheat, corn, and other crops without water. During the trek, you also see captivating landscapes with green hills, waterfalls, rivers, and more natural attractions.

Trip Cost for Ghorepani Poon Hill

The Ghorepani trek is a short mountain trip, so it is a budget tour compared to the other long adventure treks, such as the Everest Base Camp . The price depends on the service inclusion and exclusion, number of days, and member participation in a group. According to our package, it costs 625 USD for a single trekker, but it will be cheaper for more than one trekker in a group. The price includes international airport pick-up and drop service, a full-day Kathmandu tour, all transport during the trip, trekking permits, a guide, porter, food, and lodges during your Nepal stay. Check the price list below according to the group size:

• 1 Trekker: 625 USD – Book the trip from the Book Now section
• 2-4 Trekkers: 500 USD – Book Now
• 5-10 Trekkers: 450 USD – Book Now

We offer special discounts for families and group bookings. If you have more than ten trekkers booking at the same time, please get in touch with us through email or WhatsApp at +977 9851043624 to get a discount price.

Get a Lifetime Experience of Poon Hill with Frolic Adventure!

You might be interested in this trip after knowing about the Poon Hill Trek information and more from above. Frolic Adventure has been operating this tour since 2016 and has arranged thousands of trips. We provide experienced and knowledgeable trekking guides who are authorized government license holders. We also place helpful and friendly supporters who carry your trekking gear and make your trip smooth and comfortable.

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1300m.)

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Place: Kathmandu
• Altitude: 1350m.
• Mode of Transportation: Private Car/Van/Bus
• Departure Time: According to the arrival time

Day 02: Pre-trip meeting and Kathmandu city tour

• Departure Time: 9:00 am

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m.) 6-7 hrs

Today, we begin our journey heading toward Pokhara. After breakfast, we walk out of the valley leaving behind the busy roads and tall buildings towards the twisting Prithvi Highway. The raging Trishuli River bashing at the rocks flows by our sides as the mesmerizing landscape changes with each angle. Surrounded by Hilly landscapes with an added glimpse of the Himalayas, we reach Pokhara valley in time for the tranquil sunset. Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.

• Place: Pokhara
• Altitude: 820m.
• Mode of Transportation: Tourist Bus
• Departure Time: 7:00 am

Day 04: Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m.) 3 hrs

The beginning of our Poon hill trek starts with private transportation through the hilly landscape towards Nayapul. Crossing Modi Khola over a bridge, we reach Nayapul, where we begin our journey to Tikhedhunga. The journey heads towards Birethanti, where we follow the northern banks of Bhurungdi Khola, going to Tikhedhunga. Overnight stay at Tikhedhunga.

• Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
• Accommodation: Lodge
• Place: Tikhedhunga
• Altitude: 1540m.
• Mode of Transportation: Private Car/Van/Bus + Walk
• Departure Time: 8:00 am

Day 05: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2850m.) 7 hrs

• Place: Ghorepani
• Altitude: 2850m.
• Mode of Transportation: Walk

Day 06: Hike to Poon Hill (3210m.) and Trek to Tadapani (2630m.) 5 hrs

• Place: Tadapani
• Altitude: 2630m.
• Departure Time: 5:00 am

Day 07: Trek from Tadapani to Syauli Bazaar (1220m.) 5 hrs.

• Place: Syauli Bazar
• Altitude: 1220m.

Day 08: Trek from Syauli Bazaar to Nayapul (2 hrs.) and drive to Pokhara.1 hrs.

• Mode of Transportation: Walk + Private Car/Van/Bus

Day 09: Drive back to Kathmandu. Farewell dinner with Frolic Adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast+Dinner
• Departure Time: 7:30 am

Day 10: Departure to the international airport for your final flight

• Place: Home
• Departure Time: 3 hours earlier from the departure flight time

Cost Details

What's included.

• Airport picks up service by private car/van/bus.
• 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu in a tourist standard hotel including breakfast as per the above itinerary on a twin sharing basis.
• 2-night Accommodation in Pokhara in the standard hotel including breakfast as per the above itinerary on a twin sharing basis.
• All the ground transportation during the trip.
• Private car/van/bus and guide for the cultural tour 
• Your standard meal BLD during the trek with a cup of hot tea/coffee for breakfast
• Fresh fruit after every dinner in the mountain
• All necessary papers works, conservation area entry permits, TIMS cards, and monument entrance fees
• All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
• An experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people).
• Salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance for the guide and porter.
• Farewell dinner at last night in Kathmandu
• An arrangement of an emergency helicopter service will be paid for by your travel insurance company.
• We help you to hire a sleeping bag and down jacket if you don't have 
• All government taxes (Gst) and Stationery expenses.

What's not included

• Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan international airport  (Kathmandu). 
• Your travel insurance (compulsory).
• Lunch and dinner while you are in cities Kathmandu & Pokhara.
• Entries fees for the cultural tour
• Your personal expenses.
• All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
• Hot shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.
• International airfare.
• Tips for the guide, porter & driver. 
• Any others expenses which are not mentioned in including section.

Departure Note

We have set the departure date for 2023 for this Short and Easy Trek (Ghorepani Poon Hill). You can find every day's departure dates here. It is for a group tour, but we are also happy to operate your private trip for these dates. We do not charge any extra costs for private Departures, but if you want private rooms in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will have to pay extra for them. We provide one porter for two people, so if there is a solo trekker on any date, the guide will help carry the bag. Please arrange other activities you would like to do in Pokhara after the Trek if you have time.

Useful Info

Trek gear for poon hill.

You are not going for high elevations during this Ghandruk Circuit Trek, so you must be concerned about packing equipment. Packing Trekking Gear also varies depending on the season, i.e., when planning an excursion to Ghorepani Poon Hill. If you are on a trip from November to the end of February, you need to pack warmer clothing compared to the other seasons. Check for detailed information about the trekking gear :

Leaving Extra Things You Don’t Need for the Ghorepani Trek

You will not just bring the Things for Trekking from home when you travel to Nepal. You must have city wear, gadgets, and a few others that you do not need for the Trek. You might be thinking, Do I have to bring them to the mountain, or are there places to leave that stuff? Of course! You can Leave those Things in Pokhara, where you stay, before heading for the trek. You can take it back after completing the mountain trip, and it stays safe in the hotel. You will get a badge tag from the hotel, which you must keep secure and show at the reception to get your things.

Trekking Difficulty and Best Time for Poon Hill

This Trek is considered easy, so you do not need to worry about its Difficulties. Although some steep trails may make it tiring sometimes if you are not a regular hiker, You will walk for around 5–6 hours daily during the Trip. Poon Hill is the highest elevation, at 3210m above sea level. You won’t feel altitude problems, but it can be cold in the morning if you are on a trek during November and winter.

Choosing the right season for your best experience plays a vital role, so we suggest either autumn or spring for you to trek to the Ghorepani Poon hill. Check this for detailed information about the best timing :

Poon Hill Accommodation, Food, and Drink

Ghandruk Circuit Trek has lots of guesthouses to stay in. You do not need to bring a tent for the Trip; you will have a food menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food items on the menu are mixed courses of Western and local cuisine, but you will see the same food items on every menu during the Trek. Check out detailed information about food, drinks, and accommodations here:

Physical Condition and Experience Requirements

Trekking is, of course, an adventure activity in itself, so it will be very nice if you have some hiking experience to attempt the Ghorepani Ghandruk trek. Although you can Trek to Poon Hill if you do not have any hiking experience,

It might be a bit hard on the first day to climb to Ulleri on more than 3000 stone steps, the Poon Hill hike, and an hour after Ghorepani to Tadapani. The rest of these parts won’t be hard for first-time hikers during this Ghorepani tour.

Travel Insurance and Trekking Permit

The Poon Hill hiking trip is not risky for all, although trekking to the mountain region might have some difficulties and problems. So, taking travel insurance to the Himalayas is always a brilliant idea. While you travel to the mountain, take Travel Insurance, which covers all medical and accidental cases, with emergency evacuation included in the plan.

Tipping for guides and Porters

If you are a traveler and travel often, You might be familiar with tipping culture. The Guide, Porter, and driver who serve you for a day or multiple days expect a tip from you. The worker realizes you are happy with them if you tip them at the end of the Trip.

Some Important Questions and Answers About Trekking

The information listed above might not be enough, and you may be looking for other FAQs about the Poon Hill Trek. So, you can find more solutions to plan your trek to the Ghorepani easily after reading these questions and answers below:

How long is the Trek?

The Trip can be made in 2 to 5 or 6 days, depending on the starting and finishing routes. If you drive to Banthanti directly from Pokhara, hike to Ghorepani, and trek back the same way the next day after the Poon Hill visit, it is just two days. Starting from Nayapul and ending in the same place can take three days. If you are a fast walker, you can make a loop via Tadapani and Ghandruk in 4 days, and the same route can be done in 5 days. If you want to make it longer, you can also visit Jhinu hot Springs and Trek to Phedi through Landruk, Pothana, and Dhampus, depending on your interest and time.

How challenging is the Ghorepani Trek?

The Ghorepani Trek is an easy and relaxed mountain journey. It means you can walk on your face without any rush. The altitude makes it difficult for mountain journeys. Still, the highest elevation of the Ghorepani Trek is 3210m, so you won’t feel the difficulty of breathing or other elevation effects.

It is a well-established and managed Trekking route, so you have many lodges and food choices during the Trip. These lodges and food facilities make for a more comfortable trip.

How many days does it take to reach Poon Hill from Pokhara?

You can reach Pokhara and Poon Hill in one day if you drive to Banthanti directly and walk for about 3 hours. But the driving road is rough and bumpy after Birethanti for the last few hours. Usually, most trekkers walk from Nayapul and take two days to reach Ghorepani. After spending the night, you will hike to this hill station early in the morning from Ghorepani.

How Do You Go to Poon Hill from Kathmandu?

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal, where Tribhuwan International Airport is located, and all travelers coming to Nepal have landed here until now. You can drive by tourist bus, private, or public transport to Pokhara via the Prithvi Highway for 200km to the west.

You can also fly to Pokhara International Airport if you do not like a long driving journey. After spending a night in Pokhara, drive to Nayapul for about 2 hours and then start walking to Ghorepani Poon Hill through Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Banthanti.

What can I see from Poon Hill?

Poon Hill is a hill station with a view tower. You can see Mt.Dhaulagiri I, II, and III, Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna Fang, Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Fishtail (Machhapuchchhre), Annapurna II, and more high mountains with a beautiful sunrise. You can also see a zenith of green hills, beautiful villages, valleys, traditional villages, and dense forests below.

How cold will it be on Poon Hill?

It depends on when you are visiting Poon Hill. It won’t be freezing in spring and October, but the temperature in Poon Hill will be degrees to minus degrees from November to the end of February. We suggest you bring a jacket, a warm hat, and winter gloves for Poon Hill. You can also buy hot drinks at Poon Hill.

Why is Ghorepani Poon Hill considered an easy Trek?

Usually, the high altitude makes it challenging to trek, so you will not reach a very high elevation during the Ghorepani trek. The Altitude factor, temperature, and short Trekking camps make the Trek easy.

Do I need a permit for the Ghorepani Trek?

Yes, having a Trekking permit for this Trip would be best. You need an entry permit for the Annapurna conservation area, which we manage for you. If you are an individual trekker, you can obtain it from the NTNC office in Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, or the Pokhara branch. It costs 3000 NPR, and you also need a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card. It costs 2000 NPR and can be taken from the Nepal Tourism Board office.

Do I need a guide for the Trek?

It is compulsory, and  hiring a guide and porter for the Trek will be nice. You will get lots of information from the guide and walk easily without carrying heavy Trekking gear if you hire a porter. The guide manages all accommodations during the trek because getting accommodations in some places during the high season is challenging.

How much does it cost to hike Poon Hill?

The exact cost of the Poon Hill hike depends on the services included and excluded. A complete board trip with hotel accommodations in the city and a sightseeing tour costs more than hiring a guide. The Ghorepani Trekking cost also depends on the size of the group. If you are traveling individually, it is more expensive than in a large group. We offer the best price if you are booking in a group.

Which trek is better, Mardi Himal or Ghorepani Poon Hill?

Both of these Treks are short in the Annapurna Region. The views from these two treks are entirely different. However, Ghorepani is slightly more accessible than the Mardi Himal Trek  because of its elevation.

Can I see Everest from Poon Hill?

No, It is impossible to see Mt.Everest from Poon Hill. Everest is east of Kathmandu, and the Annapurna is in the west. If you would like to see Mt. Everest at the same time as you are on a trip to Poon Hill, you can take a  helicopter tour  or  scenic mountain flight  from Kathmandu.

You can ask anything to us if you have any queries regarding the Ghorepani Trekking at any time.

Client's Reviews

• Krista Rules
• June 18, 2017

A Lifetime Experience

In October 2016, I went on my first trek ever with Frolic Adventure! My trekking team from Frolic Adv. was Rajesh and Jaya and we completed a 5 day Poon Hill trip. The support and ...

• March 30, 2017

Good deal of Ghorepani Poonhill Trek

I have been trekking Ghorepani Poon hill for 5days with Raji. It was a very wonderful Trip. I highly recommend this company for the satisfaction and especially the good deal they offer! I'll be back next ...

• Fiona Fayre
• United Kingdom
• December 19, 2016

Recommended Trekking company in Nepal

Raj and the team made our Poon Hill trip very special. His local knowledge made such a difference and we learnt so much about Nepal. Poon Hill is a perfect excursion for the more "mature" ...

• December 01, 2016

Fantastic Poonhil Trek

Had an amazing hiking experience with Frolic Adventure. Raj will go all out to ensure you are taken care of and have an amazing time in Nepal. I would like to Highly recommend this company!

• Jack Frankand
• May 31, 2019

Amazing Week in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Sorted out a 4-days Poon Hill Trek with Frolic Adventures. Raj was overly benevolent, fun and was particularly proficient of the natural life and encompassing territory. He was an incredible guide! He likewise sorted out ...

Talk to Leader

Rajesh thapaliya, +977 9851043624 (call/whatsapp/viber).

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Himalayas on Foot

Local Trekking Company in Nepal

Poon Hill Trek 5 Days

Poon Hill Trek 5 days itinerary is one of the short and spectacular trekking to the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers a wonderful view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and many other Himalayas.

It is an easy 5-day trek that starts from Nayapul, one hour drive from the beautiful city, Pokhara.

Poon Hill is hugely rewarded with magnificent sunrise views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges to the north. It lies at 3,210 meters high above the sea level. The outstanding sunrise view from Poon Hill makes this place a paradise.

You can witness lowland hills to the south, terraced slopes, and unique villages in this area. In addition to that, you can encounter the wonderful culture and lifestyle of the local people.

Poon Hill is famous for its traditional villages, ethnic communities, and the view of more than ten snow-capped mountains.

The trail of Poonhill Trek goes through beautiful Ulleri and Ghandruk villages. These villages are mostly inhabited by the Gurung and Magar community. This journey leads to the dense forest of rhododendron and oak. Especially, in spring the rhododendron forests beautify the whole trek route.

On this short trip, you get to catch the awesome view of the Himalayas, diverse culture, and varied terrain.

Highlights of Poon Hill Trek-5 Days

• Easy, comfortable, and short trek suitable for all travelers.
• 360 degree of panoramic sunrise view of Annapurna Himalayan ranges from Poon Hill.
• The spectacular mountain view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Fishtail, and many other high peaks.
• Witness the distinct culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar community.
• Walking through the dense forests, waterfalls, and rivers.
• Exploring the authentic villages with hospitality.
• Hike to the popular 3300 stone stairs of the Ulleri village.
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Detailed Itinerary of Poon Hill Trek-5 days

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Ulleri

Maximum Altitude: 1,960 meters, Ulleri

Trek Hours: 5-6 hrs

Our Poon Hill trek starts with a short flight (30 minutes) from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Poon Hill trek-5 days starts from Pokhara. The journey will start driving all the way from Pokhara to Nayapul. It takes around 1 hour of drive to reach Nayapul.

From this point, it’s all about hiking to a grueling 3000 plus stairs one by one to Ulleri village. It is at 1,960 m height from the sea level.

There are many innate things to explore in this area. We can see outstanding green hills, cascading rivers, and many local villages. We will walk approximately 5-6 hours from Nayapul to Ulleri village.

Overnight stay at Ulleri village.

Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani

Maximum Altitude: 2,835 meters, Ghorepani

Trek Hours: 6-7 hrs

In the next morning, we start commencing towards Ghorepani from Ulleri village.

Heading towards to this route, we will cross the Magar village of Banthanti. From here, the views of Machhapuchhre (6,997m), Himchuli (6,441M), and Annapurna South (7,219m) look spectacular.

We will walk through a forest area full of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees. After that, we will arrive at Ghorepani enjoying the view of the forest and natural vegetation throughout the walk.

Overnight stay at Ghorepani village.

Day 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani

Maximum Altitude: 3,210 meters, Poon Hill

Trek Hours: 5 hrs

On this day, we will hike uphill to Poon Hill above the sea level.

From Poon Hill, we will see the spectacular view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, the two major mountains above 8000 meters. The awesome sunrise view over the Himalayan ranges is breathtaking.

We can also enjoy the panoramic view of Nilgiri Himal, Mardi Himal, and other stunning peaks.

After enjoying all the beautiful moments we will trek back to Ghorepani. Then we leave Ghorepani to reach our next destination to Tadapani village. This trail leads to uphill and downhill through dense and beautiful forests.

Overnight stay at Tadapani village.

Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk

Maximum Altitude: 1,940 m, Ghandruk

Trek Hours: 3-4 hrs

Today, we will leave Tadapani village in the early morning and head towards Ghandruk village.

Walking all the way through the rhododendron and oak forests we will arrive at Ghandruk village.

A warm welcome by the local people with their typical culture and traditions will keep you engaged. They will entertain us with the traditional dance in the evening.

You will have a delightful stay in Ghandruk Village.

Overnight stay at Ghandruk.

Day 5: Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Maximum Altitude: 1,940 m, Nayapul

Trek Hours: 4-5 hrs

On the last day of our trek, we will head back to Nayapul from Ghandruk village.

After the astonishing view of Annapurna and Fishtail mountains, we will walk down to Nayapul. This trail is mainly downhill and takes around 2-3 hours to reach Nayapul from Ghandruk.

Modi Khola will follow this downhill trail till Nayapul. We will walk approximately 5 hours on this day.

After we reach to Nayapul, we drive back to Pokhara. Collecting all the beautiful memories, we will end our trek with a scenic drive back to Pokhara.

Gear and Equipment for Poon Hill Trek 5 days Itinerary

• Walking pole – depending on personal preference. It helps so much!
• Refillable water bottle – the area is a no-plastic zone!
• Backpack with waist strap and or back panel – If you are going with a tour company, they would usually provide a duffle. But if they don’t, make sure you have two backpacks. If you need a bigger one, this is highly recommended.
• Waterproof jacket or umbrella – it doesn’t get that cold on the hike but it can rain. So bring either or both. For the waterproof jacket, bring something that’s not too bulky as it can get hot hiking in the rain
• Waterproof trousers –It’s good to have!
• Fleece – more for the evening and at night when the temperature drops. Despite being indoors, it will be pretty cold. Something that can zip up would be ideal .
• Hat – for the sun. Most people wear a cap, but a hiking cap might be better if you are prone to sunburn
• Sunglasses – get a polarising one for the best protection.
• Fast dry towel – maybe a small one – for showers and sweat
• Long socks – there are leeches so it’s best to have long socks
• Sunscreen – high altitude means that the sun is stronger. So it’s best to put on sunscreen!
• Hand sanitizer and or wipes – your hands are going to get dirty
• Toilet paper
• Moisturiser – for your skin because they are going to get battered
• Hiking shoes
• Flip Flops – for evening wear, you can also bring trainers or just sandals as well depending on space.
• Power bank – a lot of the guesthouses charges for charging your devices. Plus, there will be some limited plug space, so bring one with higher voltage storage.
• Head torch – you would need it for the sunrise hike up to Poon Hill, and it’s good for getting around
• Knee brace or support – there are a lot of stairs, so if you have weak knees or need extra support, bring something!
• First aid kit – bring some medical supplies such as painkillers, cold meds, band-aids, etc, especially if you are not hiking with a guide
• Waterproof shell for the backpack – when downpours do happen, you would need to make sure your valuables are well protected!
• Sleeping bag

Food and Accommodations During Poon Hill Trek 5 days Itinerary

Homestays, tea houses, and restaurants are easily available in this trail to Poon Hill. Typical Nepali staple food which is Dal Bhat with seasonal vegetables is basically served.

But, you can also find variation in food like momo, noodles, soup, Chowmein, and so on. Plus, tea, coffee, and drinks are easily available throughout this route.

While for accommodation, you will also get basic to standard accommodations in this trail. In general, tea houses offer a twin-sharing bedroom with an attached bath.

Poon Hill Trek-5 days is a short trek possible for people of all ages. It is popular for short holidays and wonderful sunrise view over the Annapurna and other mountains.

Poon Hill Trek-5 days is an excellent way to explore and experience the culture and nature of the Annapurna region of Nepal. And, take a short break to the Himalayas.

It is also a trip that you can take before you take the Annapurna Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit trek .

For detailed information and questions regarding the trek, please contact us .

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Highlights:

• Sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks from the top of Poon Hill (3,210 m)
• Magnificent views of the Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre peaks
• Passing through traditional Gurung villages and terraced farmland
• Encounter with the lively culture and welcoming hospitality of the local people
• Breathtaking rhododendron blossom in March and April

The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, and offers beautiful views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience the culture and traditions of the local Gurung people. We highly recommend the trek with all its highlights in our  "Best  of Annapurna" program .  Located in the Annapurna region, the Poon Hill Trek takes you through picturesque landscapes and traditional Nepalese villages, culminating in the sunrise at the summit of Poon Hill. The Poon Hill Trek takes 3-7 days to finish.

Trek Description

The Poon Hill Trek begins at Nayapul , a small village located about an hour's drive from the city of Pokhara. From there, the trail winds through terraced fields and dense forests, passing through charming villages along the way. 

One of the highlights of the trek is the beautiful  Ghorepani  village, where you can spend the night in a cozy guesthouse. The village offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and is a great place to acclimatize to the altitude.

The next day, you will make an early morning ascent to Poon Hill (3,210 m ), where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The summit of Poon Hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. The sunrise  over the peaks is truly a sight to behold, and many trekkers consider it the highlight of the trek.

After spending some time at the summit, you descend to Ghorepani and continue on to the beautiful Ghandruk village . Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village that offers a unique insight into the culture and way of life of the local people. You can explore the village and learn about the Gurung culture and traditions, visit the local monastery, and enjoy the hospitality of the friendly locals.

The Poon Hill Trek is a great way to experience the beauty of the Himalayas and the culture of Nepal. It is suitable for beginners and families and offers a taste of the Himalayan trekking experience without the commitment of a longer trek. The stunning views, charming villages, and warm hospitality of the local people make the trek a must-do for anyone visiting Nepal.

Trekking Seasons

Spring (March to May):  With clear skies and mild temperatures (averaging 20°C/68°F), trekkers can expect comfortable conditions and breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountain range and valleys. The flourishing flowers elevate the natural beauty, making it the prime time for this scenic journey.

Summer (June to August):  The monsoon season (average of 25°C/77°F) brings a lush and verdant landscape, with waterfalls and streams flowing at their maximum. For those seeking a serene and tranquil escape, trekking during the monsoons is a rare chance, away from the busy tourist crowds.

Autumn (September to November):  Ideal trekking and sightseeing conditions are provided by the clear skies and mild weather (average of 20°C/68°F). The autumn months are especially breathtaking with the colorful foliage, adding to the already stunning scenery of the trek.

Winter (December to February):  Trekking during the winter months (average of 10°C/50°F) presents a peaceful and serene atmosphere, with snow-capped mountains and tranquil trails. The winter landscape can be breathtaking and is an exceptional opportunity for those prepared for the cold to enjoy a winter trek.

The Poon Hill Trek offers a noteworthy natural and cultural experience, but the ideal time to trek varies based on personal preferences, physical ability, and weather.

You can check the weather forecast for Poon Hill by clicking here.

What To Pack

For details on the suitable packing list for the Poon Hill trek, refer to the Trekking Equipment section on our website.

Note: Be sure to check  the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

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Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani poon hill, on the way to tadapani from ghorepani, tourists enjoying at ghorepani poon hill, you can also, things to know before trip, trip introduction.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek  is one of the most popular treks in the Annapurna region  of Nepal it can be completed in a short duration, anytime around the year, and doesn’t necessarily require any experience. It is one of the best short and easy treks which offers panoramic views of the stunning Annapurna Himalayan range while passing through beautiful forests (especially rhododendron forest) and insightful local  Gurung  and  Magar  villages.

At a maximum altitude of 3,210 meters above sea level, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular nearby short treks in Nepal .

Overview of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek starts the next day after you arrive at  Tribhuvan International Airport . And sightseeing around the culturally rich Kathmandu Valley. We will then take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the paradise city of Pokhara. In Pokhara, you can relax at 800 meters with a bottle of beer or while boating on Phewa Lake. And you can see stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Clean and peaceful surroundings with lots of adventure sports to try; Pokhara is the place that captivates you totally with its natural beauty.

Our  Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking journey  kicks off as we drive towards Nayapul which is the starting point of the trek. Slowly hiking through waterfalls, small settlements, bamboo, and rhododendron forests, we stay overnight at Tikhedhunga. The journey through nature to Ghorepani and Poon Hill then tests our fitness as we ascend 3,300 steps at Ulleri which rewards us with great views of the Himalayas hiding in the shade of the trees. Capture the perfect picture of landscapes, trees, and the Himalayas at this point. Pushing ourselves further for a couple of hours we arrive at Ghorepani village.

The next day before dawn we hike up to Poon Hill to capture the best sunrise views over the Himalayas. It will be mesmerizing to see the sun’s golden rays slowly rising through the Annapurna Himalayan range. As well as Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Machhapuchre, Mt. Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Lamjung Himal, and other neighboring peaks. After sunrise views, we descend towards Tadapani. Further trekking through the insightful cultural and traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk . And we will head back to Pokhara and then finally end our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek by driving toward Kathmandu.

Who can join this trek and how?

The trek is suitable for any individual or group who loves to explore both the beauty of nature and culture. It is especially recommended for trekkers with inadequate time for long and adventurous treks. Join this short and moderately graded trek with Nepal Mountain Trekkers for a truly rewarding Annapurna trek appropriate to your schedule. Simply fill out the  Inquiry form  and let us know about your interest. Or you can contact us directly by sending us an email to join this short and easy trek in the Annapurna Region.

If this itinerary doesn’t suit your requirement or if you want to customize it, please feel free to contact us. This trek could be customized as per your required time frame and budget limits.

• Day 1 Arrival to Kathmandu | Transfer to Hotel
• Day 2 Trek Preparation Day
• Day 3 Kathmandu to Pokhara 200km | 5-6 hours | Breakfast and Lunch | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft:
• Day 4 Pokhara - Nayapul -Tikhedhunga 8km | 4-5 hours | Lunch | Max Elevation: 1,540m/5,052ft:
• Day 5 Tikhedhunga - Ghorepani 11km | 7-8 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 2,840 m/9,318 ft:
• Day 6 Ghorepani – Poon Hill - Tadapani 14km | 6-7 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |Max Elevation: 2,700m/8,860ft:
• Day 7 Tadapani – Ghandruk 7km | 5-6 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 1,940m/6,364 ft:
• Day 8 Ghandruk – Pokhara 11km | 4-5 hours | Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft:
• Day 9 Pokhara Sightseeing and Relax | Sightseeing, shopping, massage, and other activities | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft:
• Day 10 Pokhara - Kathmandu 200km | 5-6 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft:
• Day 11 Departure to own destination:

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival to Kathmandu | Transfer to Hotel :

Just after you arrive in Kathmandu ( Tribhuvan International Airport ), our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle and take you to the hotel where you will be welcomed with a marigold garland. You’ll be staying overnight in there with some refreshments.

Day 2 : Trek Preparation Day :

This day you will be preparing for your trek including packing and arranging equipment. You will get introduced to the team and the trek guide and get a briefing from our experts about the program. In the meantime, you can enjoy sightseeing around nearby places or something like that.

Day 3 : Kathmandu to Pokhara 200km | 5-6 hours | Breakfast and Lunch | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft::

This day you will be heading towards Pokhara from Kathmandu via drive. It is about 200 km from Kathmandu which will take you approximately 5-6 hours in the drive. You will enjoy the fascinating scenery and a lot more during this drive. You’ll stay overnight at Pokhara this day.

Dhading | 2 hrs from Kathmandu Breakfast at Hamlet restaurant

Tanahun | 2 hrs from Dhading Lunch at Green Park

Pokhara Dinner and Overnight Stay

Day 4 : Pokhara - Nayapul -Tikhedhunga 8km | 4-5 hours | Lunch | Max Elevation: 1,540m/5,052ft::

Today is your trek day. After breakfast in the morning, you’ll be heading towards Nayapul which is a half-hour drive from Pokhara. From Nayapul, you’ll start hiking toward Tikhedhunga. Now you’re inside Annapurna Conservation Area and you require permits to enter which will consume some time and then we will check in. You’ll be staying overnight at Tikhedhunga.

Lamdawali (1,160m/3,805ft) | 2 and half hour from Nayapul Lunch

Tikhedhunga(1,540m/5,052ft) | 2 and half hours from Lamdawali Dinner and Overnight Stay

Day 5 : Tikhedhunga - Ghorepani 11km | 7-8 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 2,840 m/9,318 ft::

A long and demanding trek waits for us. After crossing the suspension bridge on the Bhurungdi River, we trek to the Ulleri, a village inhabited by the Magar community, climbing on the stone stairs. We continue our exploration through rhododendron forests, green meadows, cultivated fields, and smaller streams. You may spot one of the several birds such as redstarts, kingfishers, dippers, forktails along the river, and magpies, treepies, and others along with the cultivated areas.

The trail continues through the settlement at Nangethanti to reach the destination of Ghorepani. We have a beautiful view of magnificent mountain ranges including the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiuchuli, and Tarke Kang including some other ranges.

Banthanti (2,210m/7,250ft) | 3-4 hours from Tikhedhunga Breakfast

Ghorepani ( 2,840m/9,317ft) | 3-4 hours from Banthati Dinner and Overnight Stay

Day 6 : Ghorepani – Poon Hill - Tadapani 14km | 6-7 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |Max Elevation: 2,700m/8,860ft::

One of the most beautiful days in the entire trekking expedition is in store for the trekkers. We start early to watch the breathtaking sunrise from the hilltop of Poon Hill(3,210m/10,531ft). This magical moment when the golden rays of the sun paint the giants of Mt Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,794ft), Annapurna massif (Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Annapurna South), Mt Machhapuchhre or Fishtail Mountain (6,997m/22,956ft), Dhampus Peak (6,021m/19,753ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920m/22,703ft) and others are beyond description and worth the 45 minutes uphill climb to the top of the hill.

Capturing the moment shall be a treat for the rest of your life. We then descend the hill and continue our trek for Tadapani after lunch. On the further section of today’s trek, we navigate through the colorful rhododendron forest, seen blooming like anything in the spring season. Along the ridge and through the pine and rhododendron forest we reach Deurali and further descent leads us to Tadapani.

Ghorepani ( 2,840m/9,317ft) Breakfast

Banthanti (3,180m/12,500ft) Lunch

Tadapani(2,700m/8,858ft) Dinner and Overnight Stay

Day 7 : Tadapani – Ghandruk 7km | 5-6 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 1,940m/6,364 ft::

The trek becomes more beautiful as we move further along the trekking trail. We walk down the steep trails initially and pass through the beautiful rhododendron forests. The beauty of this forest, especially when the rhododendron flower blossoms, takes the beauty of the trail to the next level. The blossom of cherries further enriches the trail as we move further and we reach the village of Ghandruk . Ghandruk is the second-largest Gurung settlement in Nepal and provides further insight into the lifestyles of villages that have traditionally provided the backbone of the famous Gurkha regiments. This village provides us with a view of Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South along with the Gurung Museum as the other highlight. Cherish the rich Gurung culture in the village.

Tadapani(2,700m/8,858ft) Breakfast

Ghandruk(1,940m/6,364ft) Lunch, Dinner, and Overnight Stay

Day 8 : Ghandruk – Pokhara 11km | 4-5 hours | Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft::

We are already on the other part of the trekking expedition. We shall reach Pokhara via Nayapul today. We start today’s trek by descending to Birethati along the stone steps moving through villages and cultivated lands. We reach Ghandruk on a similar path and to the Modi River. The downhill walk continues as we pass through the small town of Birethanti. Little after the trek, we reach the initial point of our actual trekking, Nayapul. We drive back to Pokhara from this place. This marks the end of our on-foot journey. We can rest along the ever-beautiful Lakeside in Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

Ghandruk(1,940m/6,364ft) Breakfast

Birethanti(1,050m/3,445ft) | 3-4 hours Lunch

Day 9 : Pokhara Sightseeing and Relax | Sightseeing, shopping, massage, and other activities | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft::

Well, you can enjoy this day as you wish at Pokhara. There are lots of interesting and must-visit places there which are naturally blessed. Apart from it, Pokhara is also renowned as the city of lakes and the most beautiful city in Nepal. You can have some quality time with your beloved once or enjoy some peaceful moments alone in there. This is one of the best destinations for tourists. You’ll stay overnight in Pokhara this day.

Day 10 : Pokhara - Kathmandu 200km | 5-6 hours | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Max Elevation: 823m/2,700ft::

Today we drive back to the Kathmandu Valley after completing our wonderful trek. Following the same route to the Pokhara Valley, we trace our journey back to the medieval city of Kathmandu. The trail is as beautiful and attractive as it was in the first encounter. The hills and streams, rivers and rivulets, the landscape, and the hospitable locals make our return journey more beautiful.

Pokhara Breakfast

Malekhu | 4 hours Lunch

Nepali Cultural Restaurant, Kathmandu Farewell Dinner and Overnight Stay

Day 11 : Departure to own destination::

With all the memories and experience you’ll go back to your home this day. In the meantime, you can have some souvenirs for your near and dear ones back in your native place. Our representative will drop you at the airport from the hotel. This will be one of the best experiences of trekking for your lifetime.

Price Includes

• Airport Pick-up and drop service
• 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu ( Hotel Green Horizon  or Similar Standard)
• 3 nights Hotel in Pokhara
• Sanitation: The accommodation we provide will be neat and clean with warm hospitality and quality services.
• Single/Twin-sharing Accommodation (as per budget): Your group won’t have to share your accommodation with anyone else so your privacy is protected.
• We provide hygienic and safe meals to re-energize you.
• We request you not waste your meals because transporting food in the rural area is difficult.
• You are not allowed to share your meals with anyone else from another group.
• Transportation costs(Drive): Comfortable Tourist Bus (Kathmandu – Pokhara- Kathmandu) with other driving fares.
• Local Staff: Our guides are locals of the region which ensures that you will surely explore a bit more during the trek than with any other guides.
• Experienced: With an experience of more than a decade of working in this field, our trekking guides possess excellent knowledge of briefing during the trek as well and they are experts in handling all kinds of critical situations that might occur during the trek.
• Insurance: Nepal Mountain Trekkers have an insurance policy for all our trekking staff.
• Local Staff: The porters we hire belong to the same region where we trek to provide employment opportunities to the locals and to make you explore every prospect of the region.
• Trekking Permits:  Trekkers’ Information Management System(TIMS) Card  and  Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP)  fees
• Trekking gear like sleeping bags and down jackets are made available on rent
• T-shirt of Nepal Mountain Trekkers, Duffel bag, and Trekking Map
• Rescue Arrangement Service
• First aid medical box
• All Government Taxes(13% VAT) and 10% Service Charge
• Farewell Dinner

Price Excludes

• Visa fee to enter Nepal ( Visa Information )
• International flight tickets
• Food in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Extra night accommodation and meal costs in Kathmandu due to any change in the scheduled itinerary
• Travel insurance/ Rescue operation costs
• All personal expenses (Laundries, Electric accessories, Internet, and so on)
• All Soft Drinks and Alcoholic Beverages
• Tips for guides and porters

Trip Gallery

• Sun hat or scarf
• Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
• Sun’s Cream ( 40+)
• Cotton t-shirts or thermals
• Fleece jacket
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Down jacket (Light-weighted)
• Lightweight cotton pants (long)
• Waterproof pants
• Underwear and Half Pants
• Thin inner socks
• Thick, warm wool hiking socks
• Comfortable hiking boots
• Light-weighted sandals

Accessories

• Sleeping bag rated to 0°C
• Trekking bag (Rucksack)
• Large plastic bags (for keeping items dry inside trek bag)
• Trekking poles (optional, recommended)
• Water bottle or camel bag

Miscellaneous

• Medicines: We recommend you bring your regular medicines; we will provide a first aid kit from our side.
• Light-weighted Towel
• Swiss Knife
• Passport and extra passport photos
• Water Purifying Iodine Tablets, Drop or Sterilizer

Fixed Departures

• 12/04/2024 2-10 Yes Book
• 26/04/2024 2-10 Yes Book
• 09/05/2024 2-10 Yes Book
• 15/05/2024 2-10 Yes Book
• 21/05/2024 2-10 Yes Book

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Clients review.

What our customers say about us

Poon Hill 4 day Trek

We did a 4 day trek taking in Poon Hill. Great guide and porter. The trek exceeded all expectations.

Steph Christensen

It was awesome.

Thanks for your excellent service.The trips with u guy makes me so happy..full of joy..i got a chance to see and experience new and awesome moments because of your Different amazing Offer.Hats off!

Katherina Müller

The best agency i’ve met.

Very proffessional, well mainained agency with wondelful staff is the point. You can trust these people without any worries !!

Good vibes only

Done the Poon Hill trek with the help of Min and Tn. They were of great help just everytime and they had the solution for everything. Also, Min had a great knowledge that helped the three of us learning more about Nepal during the days we spent together. Really nothing bad to say. I just thank them as we could really enjoy the trek, which is just great. Nepal Mountain Trekkers owner, Ramesh, also helped us planning our days and organized for us other activities. Ask him for assistance if you need some. Just a note: don’t go to Chitwan to ride elephants and make sure to pick a good place over there, ours was terrible. A big thank again to Ramesh, Min and Tn!

You can definitely count on them for a hassel free trip

Did a 10 days trip,trek for 7 days ( poonhill, ghorepani , ghandruk circuit) with 5 kids and 3 mummies.Mr Ramesh ( the owner) is very accommodating and welcoming.He specifically assigned Min ,who is very patient , knowledgeable and experienced in handling family with young children.He has managed to handle the hiccups faced and unforseen circumstances well,not forgetting going all way out to arrange a freshly baked birthday cake for our boy in Ghorepani.We have enjoyed trekking with the awesome team comprising Mr Min, Mr Krishna,Mr Sangame,Mr Manish and Mr Bikash,who constantly ensured our safety and welfare. We are glad we made the right choice in engaging their service.Thumbs up!

dyingforaholiday

Worry free 7 days trek to poon hill.

3 City Moms made it to Poon Hill with 5 young kids ranging from 5-13 years old. All made possible with a great team of guide and porters. The group dynamics were just right. They were able to bond well with the children and there was great team work amongst the team. We had nothing to worry about. From the moment we landed til we depart. Everything was well-thought. Even to the slightest details like planning a surprise cake [in the middle of the a mountain] for a boy who turned 13 during the trip and even making sure that we do not leave our belongings behind when we leave a tea house. These are the fine touches that made a trip an unforgettable one.

Dream trekking with superstar guide

Corinne-op-reis, good for new trekkers.

Being a beginner trekker, I found Mountain Trekkers good as everything was planned out ahead of time so all that was required of me was to walk. Ramesh was very knowledgeable and helped choose an appropriate hiking route that suited me. My guide was helpful and attentive. I recommend Nepal Mountain Trekkers to first time trekkers as it’s a nice introduction to the trekking world.

Amazing Adventure to Poon Hill and Ghorepani

My friend and I had an incredible time on an 8 day trek to Poon Hill and Ghorepani. This being my first trek, I was nervous about how I would go but Ramesh did an excellent job answering all of my questions and planning a very flexible schedule for us. Our guide TB made every part of the adventure feel comfortable, safe and fun. TB is a very experienced guide and has a wealth of knowledge. Hearing him share interesting information and stories about the culture and the beautiful places we were walking through really enriched our journey. Nepal Mountain Trekkers really do go out of their way to cater to your individual needs, their friendly expert guides will ensure you have the best possible time in Nepal. Ramesh and the team are professional and personable in their approach to helping you create the adventure you have always dreamed of.

We were not quite sure if trekking was going to be something for us, especially because we were traveling with our 2,5yr old son. Ramesh gave us many tips, thought out of the box and suggested alternatives should the trip not be what we expected. Min, our guide was the best we could have wished for. He took plenty of time for us, arranged food and drinks, after a day or two Min just knew what we would have for drinks and would order for us so we haven’t had to wait. He chose excellent small hotels to stop along the way, played with our son and was a fine partner to have conversations with. He told a lot about the environment, life in Nepal and his native village where not much was left of it after the 2015 earthquake. We have chosen to do an 8 day trek through Poon Hill, Ghandruk, Landruk, and the hotsprings. The walking days were definitely not too long and the road there is plenty of opportunity for you to catch your breath and enjoy the view. Although we kept asking Min how far we still had to go and when we had our next stop, he kept being all friendly and smiling the whole time. We also hired a porter to carry our heavy bag along the way, it was his first trip though he seemed to enjoy it and ran uphill like he never did something else in his life After trekking we’ve decided to stay for a few extra days in Pokhara, the hotel Nepal Mountain Trekkers had arranged was really good, staff was wonderful and we just loved this city. If in Nepal, you haven’t seen the beauty of this amazing country if you haven’t been trekking. Definitely would recommend Ramesh en Min, and all other guides at Nepal Mountain Trekkers. Good price, excellent service. Would do this all over again when we come back to Nepal.

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5 - Excellent Based on 22 Reviews

4 Days Trek

September - May

3 Breakfast, 4 Lunch, 3 Dinner

3 Nights at Lodge

Taxi or Jeep or Van or Bus

PRICE STARTS FROM

We Offer Group discount

Poon Hill Trek Overview

Trekking to Poon Hill entails the heart of Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP). Maneuvering through the small settlements of Gurung and Magars spread across, the journey to Poonhill is amazing. The mountain vistas, floral diversity, terraced farms, rural ambiance and tranquil setup provides for a wholesome trekking experience. The sunrise gaze over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, quaint villages of Ghorepani and Ghandruk all encapsulates Poon Hill trek.

Poon Hill Trek Highlight

• Best Sunrise, Dhaulagiri , Annapurna, Machhapuchhre View from Poonhill 3210m
• One of the Biggest Ghandruk Gurung village and Ulleri Magar Village
• Scenic View of Dhaulagiri (8167M,) Manaslu (8163m,) and Annapurna I (8091m) and others Himalayas.
• Small villages Birethati, Hile, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani
• Waterfall, Rice Terrace, Suspension bridges
• Easy and Short trek in Annapurna region
• Rhododendron flowers in February , March and April
• Deurali pass, Tadapani Hill for the best spot of Beautiful Himalayas Views.
• Good opportunity to observe Gurung , Magar and other people life style and culture
• Peaceful jungle walk from Banthati - Ghorepani - Tadapani - Ghandruk

Poon Hill Trek Details

Poon Hill Trek is a transformational journey in the foothills of Annapurna massifs. Popularized as one of the best vantage points in western Nepal, the trek to Poonhill is filled with adventure and enigma. Poonhill stands at an elevation of 3210 meters in the Myagdi district of west Nepal. Since the inception of trekking back in the '60s, Poonhill trekking has been a sought-after trek in Nepal.

The northern highlands of the Kaski district behold naturalistic magnificence. Poonhill stands as a popular vantage point near Pokhara city in Nepal. This is one of the short treks in Nepal which can be completed within a week at most. Typically beginning from the serene city of Pokhara, the trek to Poon Hill traverses north.

From the outskirts of Pokhara, your journey takes the Baglung-Pokhara highway and reaches Nayapul. This point of the trek is the starting point. We ascend our way through the Gurung settlements dotted across the to reach Ghorepani. In between Ghorepani and Nayapul lies several villages such as Birethanti (ACAP ) check post , Hile , Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Banthanti, and Nagethanti . From Nayapul, the trail takes on the deciduous monsoon forests of the Annapurna region.

Poon Hill Trek route portrays distinct variations of vegetation all along. The lower elevation areas of Poonhill trekking are full of dense lush green forests. As you ascend beyond Ghorepani on your hike to Poon Hill, the area is semi-arid with scattered forests. Poon hill trek elevation gain ranges from a mere 1070 meters at Nayapul to 3210 meters at Poonhill. This elevation range creates a different atmosphere at every stopover you take. The area surrounding the trail is filled with dense Rhododendron forests from the start until reaching Ghandruk village.

The sunrise view from Poon Hill and Ghorepani has long been appreciated by trekkers from across the world. The morning view of sunrise from Poon Hill provides mesmerizing scenery of sun rays spreading onto the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri masses.

Poonhill Trek Route/ What is the Trail like to Poonhill?

Poon Hill trekking encompasses dense jungles filled with Rhododendrons, birch, juniper, fir, and bamboo. Your trail will traverse these lush forests for the most part. As you ascend above Ghorepani, you will gaze at the pine vegetation of Tropical highlands. The trek as it begins from Nayapul takes the rural villages' foot trails. We then follow the villages of Ulleri to reach Ghorepani. From Ghorepani, our trail first ascends towards Poonhill. Thereafter, we descend towards Ghandruk via Tadapani village. The route to Poonhill is Nayapul- Birethanti - Hile - Ulleri-Ghorepani-Poonhill- Tadapani-Ghandruk-Syauli Bazaar. The initial stretch takes on the steep staircases created by piling stones on top of one another. The route is filled with small hamlets of Magar and Gurung people mostly. The vegetation shifts from Subtropical to Tropical as you complete the ascend. While there are some switchback ascents during the traverse, this is a beginner trek with a short duration of walking each day.

Prominent Attractions of Poon Hill Trek

Poon hill viewpoint:.

Stationed amidst the gigantic massif of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains, Poonhill is astounding. The vista of these two mountains as seen from Poonhill is magnificent. Trekkers prefer to hike to Poonhill from Ghorepani early in the morning, usually They make it to Poonhill right before sunrise. The air during the morning here is crisp and invigorating. As the sun unveils from the Annapurna giants, a whole range of mountains are visible before you. Rugged ridges, snow a capped summit create a stunning contrast against the morning sky. It's a mesmerizing watch as the color imprinted on the mountains shifts from soft hues of pink to orange. As the day unfolds, the radiant of the color changes to shades of gold and white.

Ghorepani Village:

Ghorepani village is the highest-altitude village you will be staying in during the Poon Hill trek . The name “Ghore Pani” translates to “horse water” in Nepali. Long before, this village used to be a rest stop for traders and travelers to quench the thirst of their horses and mules on the way to Tibet. Ghorepani village creates a tranquil ambiance amidst dense Rhododendron forest. During the Spring months (March-May), Ghorepani is vibrant and vivid with an explosion of colors of Rhododendron. You will gaze at the canvas of red, white, and pink flowers all over. This is the final point of ascent in Ghorepani Poonhill Trek and we begin our final stretch of hike to Poonhill from this village.

Ghandruk Village:

Ghandruk village is encircled by the gigantic massifs of the Annapurna mountains. This village is a typical Gurung village portraying the artistic aura of centuries back. The main entrance of Ghandruk is filled with stone houses adorned with colorful Buddhist prayer flags. Inhabited mostly by Gurung people, this village is the starting point for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek too. It stands at an elevation of 1939 meters and is the most densely located village of Poon Hill trekking .

Dense Rhododendron Forests:

Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP) is filled with numerous Rhododendron forests. The trail encompassing the Poonhill and Ghorepani is filled with colorful hues of Rhododendron flowers. Poon Hill trek covers the areas of Rhododendron forests which transform into an alluring canvas of red, pink, white, and purple blossoms, creating a surreal and fairy-tale-like setting. Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal and is highly regarded not only for its captivating beauty but for its medicinal benefits too.

Poon Hill Trek Itinerary

The Poon Hill Trek itinerary depends on the route you choose to take. The final vantage point of the trek, Poonhill can be reached from various routes from 2- 8 days. The famous itinerary for Poonhill includes the classic Nayapul- Ulleri-Ghorepani-Poonhill route. This route is pretty straightforward with steep ascents upon reaching Ulleri. The other itinerary is via Ghandruk which takes the opposite trail extending to Ghandruk village. Ghorepani Poonhill Trek route embeds Nayapul-Ulleri-Poonhill-Tadapani-Ghandruk. The latter route is scenic with Ghandruk village sitting right on the porch of Annapurna massifs. 4 Days Poonhill Trek from Kathmandu or Pokhara has been one of the most popular short itineraries. You can custom make your itinerary with Himalaya Trip . Please send us your travel plans and we will create an itinerary in accordance.

Poon Hill Trek from Pokhara

Poon Hill Trek is best trek around Pokhara. 4 Days Poon Hill Trek will start from your Hotel in Pokhara. Our guide will come to pick you up at your Hotel after breakfast on the first day. And drive to Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poon Hill - Tadapani or Ghandurk last night. From Ghandruk or Syauli Bazar drive back to your Hotel in Pokhara.

Poon Hill Trek from Kathmandu

If you want to finish Poon Hill Trek in 4 Days. You take a early flight from Kathmandu - Pokhara and meet our guide at Pokhara airport and start the trek in same day. After the trek, our guide will drop off you at Pokhara airport and fly back to Kathmandu. We can arrange your flight ticket for Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu.

Available of Poon Hill Trek

We organize small group private treks every day. You may book at your desired dates. If you are one person in the group, the transportation will be a public bus and you will trek with a guide.

Porter optional

This packaged trek does not include porters. If you want porters for Poonhill trekking , you will have to pay for them separately. One porter carries a total of 25 kilos of baggage of maximum 2-3 people. This is a short trek from Pokhara. We take the necessary things during the trek with you. The rest of the luggage, you will leave at your Hotel in Pokhara or Kathmandu. If you are okay with a 5-6kgs backpack, you do not need a porter for this trek. If you cannot carry your backpack, you have the option to hire a porter with the cost of an extra US$80 per porter for 4 days. You can share a porter between 2-3 people.

Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara

If you want to include the Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara or Poon Hill Trek all inclusive, It is possible to include them at an additional cost. For flexibility, you may book your own accommodations Hostel to 5 star Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and you can also stay more than one night in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trek at your preferred place.

Poon Hill Trek Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu or Pokhara - Nayapul drive and trek to Ulleri (1960m, 42km or 1 hour and half drive and 11km or 5-6 hours walk).

Day 02: Trek from Ulleri-Bhanthati - Nangethanti -Ghorepani (2874m, 8km or 5-6 hours walk).

Day 03: Trek from Ghorepani-Poonhill-Tadapani-Ghandruk (1939m, 18km or 8 or 9 hours walk).

Day 04: Trek Ghandruk-Syauli Bazar and drive to Nayapul-Pokhara or Kathmandu (5.5km or 2-3 hours walk and 52km or 2 hours drive).

Poon Hill Trek Detail Itinerary

Kathmandu or pokhara - nayapul -tikhedunga – ulleri (village).

1960m Ulleri 42km, 2 hours drive, 11km,5-6 hours walk L, D Lodge

Our guide will pick us up from your hotel at Pokhara after your breakfast. The journey from Pokhara to Nayapul takes on the Baglung-Pokhara highway. It's a 40-kilometer stretch that takes about 1 and a half hours to cover. From Nayapul we initiate our trekking adventure. The trail from Nayapul is easygoing for the first 2 hours. Nayapul sits on the bank of Modi river which originates from the Annapurna massifs.

The first traverse pierces through the rural landscape of Nepal. You will pass along many terraced farms, rural hamlets, deep lush forests, and water streams. We pass through the villages of Birethanti, Sudame, Hile, and Tikhedhunga. Right after Tikhedhunga is a suspension bridge that we cross to begin the steep section of the trek. We then proceed to take on the popular 3200 stone steps of Ulleri. After 2 hours of ascent, we reach Ulleri, our overnight stop.

Optional: If you take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and start the trek on the same day, our guide will meet you at the Pokhara airport and drive to Nayapul.

Ulleri– Nangethanti - Ghorepani Deurali

2874m, Ghorepani 8km, 5-6 hours walk B,L,D Lodge

You will have your first gaze at the Annapurna massifs from Ulleri. This village provides views of shimmering mountains: Mt. Annapurna South (7219m.) and Hiunchuli (6441m). The trail then ascends gradually from there on. The trail now fixates deep into the aura of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. This section of the trek is enriched with diverse flora and fauna. The trail is blessed with deep jungles with mostly Rhododendron, Juniper, Birch, and Fir. There is plenty to discover within this stretch of the trek. We traverse deep into the jungles and make our way through the small hamlets of Banthanti and Nagthanti. As we exit these jungles a flattened slope right below Poonhill viewpoint unveils. There are small tea houses scattered all across this place. This is Ghorepani, your overnight stop.

Ghorepani - Poon Hill – Tadapani - Ghandruk

1939m, Ghandruk 18km, 8-9 hours walk B,L,D Lodge

Today is the best section of your journey as you reach the picturesque vantage point of Poonhill. We are woken up early by our guide, probably at 4 a.m. We begin with our hike towards Poon Hill from Ghorepani. Your headlight will come in handy as it will still be dawn. And hour hike reaches you at Poonhill. This is a flattened surface on top of a hill that overlooks Mt.Dhaulagiri(8167m). Additionally, this place provides enigmatic views of Annapurna South, Barahi, Shikhar, Hiuchuli, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri ranges, Tukuche peak, Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Lamjung Himal, Mt.Manaslu ranges, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and others mountains.

We descend from Poonhill, making our way towards Ghorepani. After a hearty breakfast at Ghorepani, we commenced our return journey. The descent from Ghorepani is fairly easy with gradual downhill sections through a stone paved trail. 5 hours into the trek we reached Tadapani for our lunch. Tadapani is a prominent village in the Annapurna region. This village acts as a crossroad for the Khopra ridge trek. After lunch, we descend further to the picturesque village of Ghandruk. We stayed overnight at Ghandruk.

Option: If you can't make it to Ghandruk from Ghorepani, you have a choice to stay in Tadapani. If you stay in Tadapani, you will trek to Syauli Bazar on the next day and drive back to Pokhara. You do not need an extra day for this option.

Ghandruk - Syauli Bazar - Nayapul - Pokhara or Kathmandu

830m, Pokhara 5.5km or 2 hours walk, 52km or 2 hours drive B, L own Hotel in Pokhara

Whats Included?

• Trekking permit.
• Pokhara - Nayapul and Syauli Bazar or Nayapul - Pokhara by private Taxi / Jeep/Van.
• All the meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with Lodge accommodation during the trek.
• One English speaking trekking guide.
• Guide: foods, accommodation, insurance, salary, transportation and equipment etc.
• Seasonal fresh fruit such as Banana, Apples etc.
• First Aids Kid.
• Duffel Bag if require.
• Himalaya Trip T-shirt.
• 13% Government VAT and official expense.

Whats not Included?

• International airfare and visa fees ((15 Days US$30 and 30 Days US$50).
• Hotels and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (We arrange Hotel if you ask).
• Kathmandu-Pokhara- Kathmandu by flight/ Tourist bus/ Private Car ( We arrange if you ask )
• Your Trekking gears.
• All the drinks like Tea, Coffee, Coke, Fanta, mineral water, juice, beer etc.
• Tips for Guide.

Not satisfied with this itinerary?

Group joining for poon hill trek, poon hill trek review.

Yongfeng China, November 2023

Superb experience with everything

My 4 days and 3 nights Poon Hill solo trek in Nov 2023 with the Himalaya Trip was a superb experience. Fortunate to get connected with them via Google search. Harka is the owner of this professional trekking company. He arranged everything according to my needs. I find him very friendly and he even offered to drive me to the airport with his scooter. A perfect service including all meals and accommodation throughout the whole trip within my tight budget. Also, my guide Jay is patient, caring, easygoing, professional, and the best guide I could have. I had a super fun trekking trip with Jay cracking jokes and talking. Overall, I will recommend the Himalaya trip if you plan trekking in Nepal and as well as Jay as your guide. You will be well looked after and safe and get to enjoy the most with your trip. I will of course choose the Himalaya trip to organize my trip again when I come back for another trekking trip.

Ps the views are just amazing and as well as all Nepalese. And I don’t normally write reviews but they deserve all the compliments.

Priscilla Hongkong, 2023

4 Days Poonhill Trek

We like all of you so much too!!! Thank you for the arrangement of 4 Days Poonhill Trek and the help from you, Umesh and Sandeep throughout our entire journey🫠🫠 hope one day we can meet all of you again.

Wing Hongkong, Nov 12, 2023

Happy and Unforgettable 4-day Poon Hill Trekking

Our 4-day Poon Hill trekking was very wonderful and unforgettable. Throughout the trek, the weather was favorable. Happy to witness a beautiful sunrise, stunning landscapes, and Snow Mountains. Had a great time with our guide Harka, and porters Umesh and Sandeep. Got some unique insights from them and had interesting conversations. Our first Nepal trekking journey was much more enjoyable and joyful. All thanks to Harka and the team for taking care of us throughout the journey.

Man Macau, November 2023

Great Time at Poon Hill trek

We had a great time at Poon Hill Trek with experienced and professional guides. The right choice is to let Harka, owner of Himalaya Trip arrange this incredible 4 days Poon Hill trek for us. Highly suggested.

Jacky Hongkong, 2023

Poonhill Trek

Namaste Harka and Porters Sandeep and Umesh,

Thanks so much for all of you – playing the swing, sharing your stories with us – being nice, funny and helpful. I’m so glad with have you guys in Poonhill Trek. Being a guide or porters is not easy, I respect you guys so much.

I wish all the best to you and your family stay Healthy and stay strong

Jacky from Hongkong

Cheyenne Taiwan, October 2023

Right Choice (4 days Poon Hill trek)

All arrangements were fantastically done by Himalaya Trip’s owner Harka for this 4-day Poon Hill trek. Our professional guide Surpa took great care of us as well in handling all issues properly. Also, highly appreciated our porter Sandeep in porting our heavy bags. It’s an awesome experience as well as the right choice to book with Himalaya Trip. Can’t wait to visit Nepal again����.

Minyoung Korea, 2023

Hi Harka, My 4 Days Poonhill Trek was fantastic during the four days. I have had the most amazing time thanks to Surpa.

I have met many guides in different countries but none like him. He was very caring, professional, and overall helped me a lot in many ways. Thanks to him I will remember the trekking trip and Nepal in a very positive manner.

If I ever do come back to Nepal, which I hope I do in the near future, I would definitely like to make trip arrangements with you and have Surpa as my guide.

Thank you once again for arranging my trip, it was the highlight of the vacation. I’d also like to thank you for pairing Surpa to be my guide. He was indeed a very very great and sweet guide.

Take care and I hope to talk with you in the near future.

Sofia M UK, Apr 11, 2023

Fantastic time doing the Poon Hill Trek

Thank you, Harka for the wonderful arrangement of the trek. Our guide Surpa was very attentive and Romesh was also a great porter. They took care of us and the trip was smoothly carried following the itinerary. From food to accommodation to a private bathroom and private shower in 2 of 3 places, we were well taken care of. 5 stars for a well-organized Poon Hill Trek.

Wally Hongkong, Apr 14, 2023

4D3N Poon Hill Trek- Cherish for a lifetime

A big shout out to our guide Ramess and our porter Ram for taking care of us and ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the 4D3N Poon Hill Trek. All kind words of Ramess touched us and Ram earned our respect by carrying our backpacks and making us feel comfortable. The scenery, the experience itself, and everything was amazing. An unforgettable experience to cherish for a lifetime. Definitely will come back shortly for an even more challenging route. Highly recommended. Thank you, team and Nepal.

JMF Malaysia, April 2023

Professional. Friendly. Comfortable.

This is the second time using Himalaya Trip and Harka’s guys after our ABC Trek. This time we went to Poon Hill with my son and it was amazing. As usual, the team was professional, friendly, and comfortable. Recommended again and again.

Poon Hill Trek Info

How to get pokhara from kathmandu .

Pokhara is 200km away from Kathmandu. Flight or drive option is available. If you take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you can start the trek on the same day. If you take a private car or tourist bus, you have to stay a night in Pokhara and start the trek on next day. If you take a flight, it takes 25 minutes and if you take a tourist bus or private car, it takes 7 hours to drive.

There are a variety of transportation options for Tourist/ Private Car / Flight for Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu. If you choose one of them, we can arrange for you.

Option I: Tourist Bus Approx. US$15 per person – 7 hours’ drive.

This tourist bus leaves at 7 a.m. from Kathmandu and 7:30 a.m. from Pokhara.

Option II: Private Car/Jeep/Van Approx. US$110, US$150, US$200 – 6 hours’ drive

This option is a flexible time to start. You can leave at your desired time.

Option III: Flight cost Approx. US$100 per person . The flight is available from approx. 7 am to 8 pm. It takes 25 minutes flight.

How long is Poon Hill Trek ?

Duration of Trek: 2-5 days Poonhill Trek

The 2-day Poon hill trek is US$229 per person , Your trek starts from Ulleri, and treks to Ghorepani, The Next morning, you climb to Poonhill for sunrise, the Himalayas view, and then same way back to Ulleri. From Ulleri, drive back to Pokhara.

3-day Poon hill treks US$259 Per person , Your trek starts from Syauli Bazar via Nayapul, trek to Tadapani, Ghorepani, Poonhill, and then same way back to Hile. From Hile, drive back to Pokhara.

The 4-day Poon hill trek is US$299 Per person , you start the trekking from Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill, and then another route to Nayapul via Tadapani and Ghandruk village.

5 Days Poon hill trek US$349 Per person , you start the trek from Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill, Tadapani, Jhinu Natural Hot Spring, Syomrong, and back to Pokhara.

Poon Hill Trek distance in Km or Miles

The Poon Hill Trek distance is depending on how many days Poon Hill Trek you choose.

• 2 days Poon Hill Trek 19 km or 11.80 miles
• 3 Days Poon Hill Trek 31 km or 19.26 miles
• 4 Days Poon Hill Trek 42.5 km or 26.40 miles
• 5 Days Poon Hill Trek 40 km or 24.85 miles

Transportation To/From for Poon Hill Trek

Ground transportation for the Poon Hill trek depends upon your group size. If you are in a group 2 people, we will have a taxi for your trip. If the group size ranges from 3-7 pax, a jeep will be hired for the trip. Private vehicles will be booked for Syauli Bazar to Pokhara and Pokhara to Nayapul section of the trip.

Starting Point of Poon hill Trek

As a general practice, the Poon hill trek is initiated from Nayapul. It is a small highway-side village located 40 kilometers northwest of Pokhara. This is a classic initiating point for the Poon hill trek. However, the road has been paved from Nayapul until Ulleri but is only accessible via Jeep or a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Also, the ending point of the trek is Syauli Bazar itself.

Communication Services in Poon Hill Trek

Unlike 4-5 years back, Poon hill trekking trail has a strong reach of network communication now. There is a good reach of cellular and data services easily accessible in the area. The parts of the trekking trail have 4G access for you to connect with your loved ones. That being said, since the geography is remote and difficult to access, the network gets disrupted most of the time.

Difficulty of Poon hill Trek

Trek to Ghorepani- Poonhill is an easygoing adventure. Since the duration of the trek is 2 days at most 2 day being the descent, it is a beginner trek. Novice trekkers can easily complete the trek without much stress on their physique. The trail at first is a bit steeply inclined which might make you breathless. However, as you ascend higher your body adapts to the altitude and it gets easier. Poonhill trek is recommended to novice and beginner trekkers. This trek can be a stepping stone for those looking to embark on high-altitude traverses like Manaslu Trek , Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Everest 3 High Passes Trek .

Best Time for Poon hill Trek

Best time for Poon hill Trek Of the 12 months in the year, 3 months boast an amazing weather window for trekking in Nepal. Spring which begins in March and lasts till May is the most favored time for Poonhill trekking. Autumn months are another best time for trekking to Poonhill. Autumn months usually last from the end of September until mid-December. Winter time in Nepal is also favorable for trekking which occurs from December to February .

On that note, the Summer months(June-August) is the monsoon period in Nepal which creates monsoon rain. Occasional rain showers make the trail slippery and obstruct the Himalayan views. That being said, trekking can be done during this time. The best weather for the Poon hill trek is during Autumn(September- December) and Spring(March-May) . Also, winter trekking to Poonhill is doable. While the temperature during winter months drops to an extreme level, we can arrange for a trek during those times. Despite the cold and snowy pattern, the weather during these months is excellent. It is advised to carry warm gear and a sleeping bag for the night if you are trekking during the winter.

Food and Beverage in Poon hill Trek

Thea inclusive package of trek to Poonhill includes 3 times meals. These include breakfast before your trek begins at the hotel, lunch at a day stopover, and dinner after you reach your night stopover. Meals during Poon hill trek can range from a wide variety of cuisines. The most popular dishes available during the trek are Rice, Lentil, Soup, Veg curry, and pickle. This is a Nepali dish popularly called Daal Bhaat.

Additionally, there is a range of continental cuisines available in the teahouses own style. Noodles, Mashed Potatoes, French Fries, Pies, Pasta, Cutlets own style and others are available in most places. Please make sure to inform us of your meal preferences.

Hotels in Poon Hill Trek

Annapurna region is home to the typical hilly communities of Gurungs and Magars. The area surrounding the Poonhill trekking trail is filled with Gurung and Magar villages. Ghorepani Poonhill trek is a teahouse trek with you hopping from one village to another for your stay. The stopovers along the treks like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk have numerous teahouses for your stay.

Accommodation in Poon hill Trek includes staying in such teahouses. Teahouses are similar to mountain lodges in the European Alps. These small wooden structure houses provide basic lodging facilities for trekkers. A typical teahouse will have twin beds with a foamed mattress. You will be provided with a pillow and quilt. These houses are usually kept warm with a Bukhara stove built in the diner of the lodge. There are hot water shower facilities available . Also, these lodges have wifi facilities .

Preparation and Fitness for Poon Hill Trek

In comparison with other lengthy treks in Nepal like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek , Poon hill trek is short and easygoing. That being said, a certain level of fitness and preparation is paramount. On average, you will be hiking for at least 6-7 hours each day after Nayapul. Additionally, you will be gaining about 4-500 meters in elevation each day. Cardio exercises and Endurance training can be helpful to comfortably complete the traverse. Cardio exercises provide the stamina required for long hours of trek while endurance training provides muscle strength.

As considered by many, the Difficulty of the Poon hill trek is easy with a short span of duration. The traverse can be completed within a week at most. The most difficult part of the trek is the initial stretch from Nayapul to Ghorepani. It includes hiking via steep staircases and mountain foot trails. As you adjust to the higher elevation, you will feel comfortable walking. We recommend you begin your exercises at least a month before your travel dates.

Permits for Poon hill Trek

Poon Hill along with all the stops in between the Poon hill trek is encapsulated in Annapurna Conservation Area Project(ACAP). This project is aimed at conserving the varied flora and fauna found in the region. You will need an ACAP permit for traversing in this area.

ACAP permit costs:

For foreigners: Nrs. 3000 (Approx. $30) For SAARC Nationals: Nrs. 1000 (Approx.$10) Tims Card costs: For foreigners: Nrs. 3000 (Approx. $20) For SAARC Nationals: Nrs. 1000 (Approx.$10) Apart from the ACAP permit, a TIMS card needs to be obtained for Poonhill Trekking. TIMS stands for Trekkers Information Management System. This card is vital to locate the trekkers during their travel. Security personnel will retrieve information from TIMS cards about your identity and whereabouts. Both of these permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Your trekking agent can guide you in obtaining these permits.

Packing List for Poon hill Trek

This is the short and easy trek in Annapurna Region. You do not need any special gears.

• Hiking shoes
• Warm jacket,
• T-shirts (two or three) and long-sleeved shirt,
• Sunscreen (SPF 20+),
• Backpack around 35 liters,
• Torch (flashlight),
• Camera, memory card and battery charger( spare batteries),
• Toilet Paper,
• Quick- drying towel,
• Thermal underwear ,
• Spikes in winter etc.

Note: If you are doing this trek in winter ( December - February) , spikes or crampon is recommended. And if you are doing this trek in summer (June - August) , rain poncho or rain jacket is recommended.

How do we get Pokhara from Kathmandu for Poon Hill Trek ?

There are 3 options to get Pokhara.

• Tourist Bus: Tourist Bus leave every day from Kathmandu to Pokhara by 7:00 am in the morning from Kantipath. It takes around 7 hours. The Tourist Bus leaves at 7:30 am from Pokhara. It cost US$8 per person for standard tourist bus and US$25 per person for Deluxe tourist bus.
• Private Car US$110/ Jeep US$150/ Van US$200: You can take private Car/ Jeep / Van depending on your group size. If you hire a private vehicle, it will be more flexible.
• By Flight: There are many flights to Pokhara from Kathmandu every day. You may choose to take a flight to get there. It takes 25 minutes from Kathmandu. It is a more convenient way to get to Pokhara. It cost US$100 per person one way.

Poon hill trek Temperature

The temperature will depend what time you book Poon Hill trek. But we organize this trek every day in whole year. Spring ( March - May) and Autumn (September - November) is the best time to do this trek. If you want to see Rhododendron , February - April is the best time. and if you want to walk on the snow at this trek , The Winter ( December - February ) is the best time.

• Winter (December – February): Minimum temperature will be around -5 Celsius and Maximum temperature will be 15 Celsius. The temperature will be little bit cold but it is still nice weather to trek during this time. This is the right time to walk on the snow at this trek.
• Spring (March – May): Minimum temperature will be around +5 Celsius and Maximum temperature will be 30 Celsius. This is the best time to do this trek with clear sky and good temperature. If you want to see the Rhododendron, this is the best time.
• Summer (June – August): Minimum temperature will be around +5 Celsius and Maximum temperature will be 30 Celsius. This is raining season, we still organize this trek during this time. Rain Poncho or Rain Jacket is recommended to bring.
• Autumn (September – November): Minimum temperature will be around 0 Celsius and Maximum temperature will be 25 Celsius. This is another the best time do to this trek. It will be fresh and beautiful weather after the raining season.

Poon hill Trek Food Menu ?

The Lodges of Poon Hill Trek have Menu; you will have your own choice. The foods are hygienic. But it is not like cities foods.

• Breakfast: Simple Breakfast (Eggs any item hasbrown potato, toast or Gurung or Tibetan Bread, Pancake, Muesli, Oat Porridge etc.)
• Lunch: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papadam,Tomato Hot spicy, Chicken curry optional), Macorani , Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo.Mo or dumpling, Pizza, Friend Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries etc.
• Dinner: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papadam,Tomato Hot spicy or pickle, Chicken curry optional), Macorani , Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo.Mo or dumpling, Pizza, Friend Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries etc.
• Dessert: Fresh Fruit (Apple, orange, pomegranates, Banana with any seasonal fruit) serve as sweet dessert.

Note: All the drinks soft, hot, hard drinks are not included.

Poon Hill Trek FAQ

Q 1: poon hill trek vs mardi himal trek.

Poon Hill Trek vs Mardi Himal Trek are similar days trek. But There are some similar and some differences of these both treks.

Q 2: poon hill trek leeches

If you do Poon Hill trek in summer or monsoon or raining season or in the month of June, July and August, there will be leeches.

Q 3: Do you need a trekking permit for Poon Hill?

Poon Hill will be in the Annapurna region, you need Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) permit and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS ) card.

Q 4: How to get to Poon Hill from Kathmandu?

The Poon Hill will start from Pokhara. If you are planning for this Trek from Kathmandu, you need to go Pokhara from Kathmandu. It is 200km away from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Tourist Bus or Private Car or flight is available.

Q 5: How high is Poon Hill Nepal?

The elevation of the Poon Hill is 3210 meters. This elevation is the highest point of the this Trek.

Q 6: Is the Poon Hill trek worth it?

You will experience Gurung and Magar people life style and culture, Best Sunrise from Poon Hill, western part of Nepal highest Mt. Dhaulagiri 8167m , Annapurna , Machhapuchhre and Manaslu ranges during this Trek, It is definitely worth and highly recommend.

Q 7: how many kilometers is the four day poon hill trek in nepal nayapul to ghandruk

Four day Poon Hill Trek in Nepal from Nayapul - Tikhedhunga - Ulleri - Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Tadapani - Ghandruk is 37km or 23 miles.

Q 8: how many kilometers is the four day poon hill trek in Nepal ?

The four day Poon Hill Trek in Nepal is 42.5km or 26.40 miles from Nayapul - Ulleri - Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Ghandruk to Syauli Bazar. Lake side , Pokhara to Nayapul is 42km or 26 miles drive on the first day and Syauli Bazar - Lake side Pokhara is 52 km or 32 miles drive on the last day.

Q 9: Can we do private Poon Hill trek our couple or friends or family only?

If you are more than 2 people, we organize a private Poon Hill trek on your desire date. The price will be the same as group joining.

Q 10: Can you confirm the amount of the 20% deposit of Poon Hill Trek to be paid and then the amount and how we will pay the final balance (in cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu)?

The deposit amount is 20% of the total US$299 = US$59.8 or US$60 per person . The final balance is US$239 per person, you will pay cash Euro/ Pound Sterling/ US dollar/ NPR or other currencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Credit card or Bank transfer charges will be extra.

Q 11: Are there any services available by your company to store extra luggage while on the Poon Hill trek?

Yeah, it is also possible to store extra luggage in my office while on the trek. It is free of cost.

Q 12: Just wanted to ask if we can make the remaining payment of Poon Hill by card or is it cash only?

I prefer the remaining payment in cash of this trek. If you pay by credit card, it takes some time to collect in my bank account and you will charge an extra 4%.

Q 13: Do you know any night buses for Kathmandu-Pokhara -Kathmandu ?

If you are budget travel with limited time, you may take a night bus for Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu. If you take a night bus from Kathmandu, you will reach Pokhara in the morning and start the trek on the same day. After the trek, you may take the night bus or afternoon public bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Q 14: Is it possible to start the Poon Hill trek after getting an early flight from Kathmandu and take a late flight to Kathmandu?

Yeah, if you have limited time and do not feel comfortable taking 7-hour bus journey. You can take an early flight from Kathmandu and start this trek after getting in and take a late flight to Kathmandu after the trek.

Q 15: I would also be taking the flight from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu. Can this be organized by you or should I book Poon Hill Trek separately myself?

Yeah, we can arrange your flight tickets for Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu. The price will be the same if you book directly or through us. If we arrange your flight ticket, it will be easy to rearrange if your flight is canceled because of bad weather. The flight ticket cost is US$100 per person one way. If you take both ways, it will be US$200 per person.

Q 16: How do we pay the deposit ?

We have different options to make the deposit . You may choose according to your convenience. They are Bank Transfers, Credit card payments, Western Union, etc. For the online credit card payment, kindly go through this link Himalaya Trip . This is the easiest way to make the payment. If you use a bank transfer, I will send it to you by email.

Q 17: How do we book Poon Hill trek?

We are so pleased to organize your trek. Please, kindly scan or photo of your passport copy, passport size photo by email at [email protected] or WhatsApp at +977-9851196388 and deposit 20% of the total amount. We will confirm your booking.

Q 18: What do we do about water to drink on the Poon Hill trek?

If you want to use normal water with iodine tablets or water filter or boiled filter water or buy bottle of mineral water bottle available . You will buy boiled filter water or safe drinking water during this trek.

Q 19: Not massive fit for Poon Hill Trek?

Poon Hill is a relatively easy, short, and low-altitude trek. You do not need to be physically fitness to do this trek.

Q 20: Keen to see the rhododendrons?

Poon Hill Trek is the best spot to see the Rhododendron flowers. February and March are the best season to see the Rhododendrons.

Q 21: Is it possible to do private Poon Hill trek ?

If you are 2 or more people in your group, you can start this trek on any date, and possible to do the private trek.

Q 22: Do you have fixed departure of Poon Hill Trek ?

This Trek is possible to join a group every Friday .

Q 23: Can you organize Poon Hill trek if there is only me at my desire dates ?

We organize this trek every day. You can book any dates. But If there is one of you in the group, we still organize this trek with a guide. The price of the trek is the same as group joining. No single supplement cost. The transportation will be a public bus for Pokhara to the trekking starting point and trekking ending point to Pokhara.

Q 24: Buy a Nepali Sim Card ?

You can buy a Nepal NCELL or NTC Sim Card at the arrival of Airport. You can use it all the way to this trek.

Q 25: Bank or ATM or Money Exchange

There is no Bank or ATM or money exchange . You have to take extra Nepali rupees from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Q 26: Are there toilets and showers in the lodges ?

Yeah, there is a toilet and Hot shower in the Lodges available . You may have a shower every day. Normally, we provide a private room with an attached bathroom and Hot Shower. In the peak season, you will have a private room with a shared toilet.

Q 27: Is electricity available ?

Electricity is available in all the places of this trek. You can charge your Camera and Mobile Phone.

Q 28: What is the Tea house or Lodges like? What kind of room does we aspect during Poon Hill Trek ?

This Trek or walking or Hiking activities will be done out of cities. The accommodation is based on a City Luxurious Hotel or Resort. The room is basic with single, Double, Triple, Twin Beds etc. There will be Beds with Mattresses and bed covers; Blankets and a bathroom are inside the room. Hot Shower is available. You have to bring Toilet paper, Shampoo, Soap and Towel with you. WIFI is available with an extra charge.

Q 29: Is Poon Hill trek difficult?

This trek is short and easy in the Annapurna region.

Q 30: How long is Poon Hill Trek?

This Trek can be done from 2 days to 5 days. You may choose according to availabilities.

Q 31: How do I get to Poon Hill Trek?

Pokhara is the starting point of this trek. You will drive Pokhara - Nayapul and trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, climb Poon Hill early in the morning for best sunrise and Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges vie and Tadapani - Ghandruk to Syauli Bazar. From Syauli Bazar drive back to Pokhara.

Q 32: Poon Hill trek cost

This trek cost depends on the number of days that you choose, group size and season.

Q 33: Poon Hill trek itinerary

The Standard itinerary of this trek is 4 Days starting and ending in Pokhara. You may redesign according to your desire and available time.

Q 34: Poon hill trek itinerary 4 days

4 days is the standard Itinerary of this trek. You will start at Birethanti and trek to Hile, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill , Tadapani, Ghandruk and back to Syauli Bazar and Birethanti.

Q 35: Poon Hill trek itinerary 3 days

This trek can be done in 3 days. You have both route options for you. You can go through Birethanti, Hile, Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Poonhill and back to Pokhara the same way. Another option is, you go to Birethanti, Syauli Bazar, Ghandruk, Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Poonhill, and on the way back, you will trek down to Ulleri, Hile, and Birethanti.

Q 36: Poon Hill trek from Pokhara

Pokhara is the gateway to this trek. You will start and end the trek from Pokhara.

Important Note

Available of the trip

We organise small group private trip. If you are 2 or more people in your group, you may book any dates.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance is need in case of any emergency. It is recommend to have.  If you are doing short  and low elevation trek, you can do normal insurance. But if you are doing high altitude or adventure trek, you should have emergency rescue.

Last Minute booking

Normally, trekkers plan the trip before 3-9 months.  Some trekkers decide the trip in last minutes. It is also possible to book your trek at last minutes. For the Last minutes booking, you need to make a full payment.

Tipping is highly expected. Our staffs try their best during the trip. After the trip, Tipping is expected. It is not fixed amount or percentage. We recommend the tipping according to their services.

When you are travelling, the safety is most important. For the safety of our clients, we trained our guide and porters. They are all register trekking / Tour  / Climbing guide and experience porters.

Extra personal expenses

For the extra expenses, it is good to bring USD / Euro / Pound Sterling or ther currency. You may change to Nepali Rupees (NPR) at Tribhuwan International Airport or near your Hotel in Kathmandu. You will use only Nepali rupees during the trip.

Accept few countries , you will get on arrival Nepal’s Visa at the Tribhuwan International Airport or Nepal board. I recommend to fill up Nepal Visa online form and bring it with you. It will be faster and easy for you and visa fee is recommended to bring cash US dollar. You can’t pay by using credit card.

Trip extension or Itinerary Disclaimer

We organize small group private trip. The trip extension is possible but you have to figure out when you booking the trip.

Group joing and Fixed departure

Most of the time, we have small group private trip. Group joining or fixed departure will be available only at the clients request. 

Luggage store

You are not taking all the lugguage on the trek. You will take only necessary gears on the trek and rest of the gears, you will store at your Hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara or in our office in Kathmandu. All the Hotels have free luggage store services. It is more convenient to store at your Hotel.

Responsible travel

• Ask permission to photograph people.
• Do not remove or purchase antiques, it is illegal.
• Avoid wearing revealing clothes and avoid outward displays of physical affection.
• Do not anything to disturb environment or wild animals.

Domestic flight

Normally, domestic flight is not on time. If you have international flight with domestic connection flight. It is always better to keep some gaps.

Trek Booking

For the Booking, we need passport copy, passport size photo by email or What's App  and 20% deposit.

Why Himalaya Trip ?

• Fast response
• Small group private trek
• Safety is top priority
• Recommended on TripAdvisor
• Tailor made itinerary
• Seasonal package
• 200 plus  trekkers take service every year
• 30-40% repeated customer

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This site was last updated 03/20/15

• Poon Hill Trek Route Map from Pokhara

Poon Hill Trekking Map

Click for  Poon Hill Trekking Packages  for 2021 & 2022 

Poon Hill trekking   is a short and relatively easy trek into the  Annapurna Himalayas region . This trek is suitable for those who do not have much time to spend with a burning desire to observe the beauty of snow-capped mountains. Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking does organize this trek in 3 days from Kathmandu or Pokhara.  

Poon Hill trek  starts from  Nayapul  after one and half hour drive from Pokhara. This trek passes beautiful villages of Ulleri,  Ghorepani , and  Ghandruk . You will enjoy the trek in the spectacular mountain scenery through delightful villages inhabited by  Gurungs  and  Magars . Around every corner is an exciting glance of the high mountains, whole horizons of which will be open to you as you reach the high points of your trek. The viewpoint on  Poonhill  (3210m.) offers the best view of mountains and sunrise. Dense  rhododendron  forests full of birds and imaging valleys make your trip more enjoyable. Mt. Dhaulagiri ranges,  Mt. Annapurna I, Annapurna south, Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Barasikhar, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, Hiunchuli, and Manaslu ranges will view from this trek. As the sun touches the snow-capped summits, the Himalayan giants, Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna (8,091m) along with a maze of other peaks, slowly begin to appear, like magic, before our eyes. Anyone who loves nature and beautiful landscape will never forget this astounding experience. The trek can be lengthened and shortened according to the time you have.

Poon Hill Trek Highlights

• Best Sunrise and Himalayas View, Poonhill 3210m
• One of the Biggest Ghandruk Gurung village and Ulleri Magar Village
• View of Dhaulagiri (8167M,) Manaslu (8163m,) and Annapurna I (8091m) and others Himalayas.
• Small villages Birethati, Hile, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani
• Waterfall, Rice Terrace
• Easy and Short trek in Annapurna region

Trek Starting Point:  Kathmandu or Pokhara

Option I:  If you start Poon hill trek from Pokhara, you will drive from your Hotel in Pokhara to Nayapul and start the trek.

Option II:  If you start Poon hill trek from Kathmandu, you will take an early (first) flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and drive to Nayapul then start the trek in the same day.

Duration of Trek:  3 Days or 4 Days or 5 days

Option I:  If you desire to do this trek in 3 days trek in Poonhill, your trek start from Kimche via Nayapul, trek to Tadapani, Ghorepani, Poonhill and then same way back to Hile. From Hile, drive to back to Pokhara.

Option II:  Poon hill trek in 4 days, you start trek from Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill and then another route to Nayapul via Tadapani and Ghandruk village.

Option III:  Poon hill trek in 5 days, you start trek from Nayapul, trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poonhill, Tadapani, Jhinu Natural Hot Spring and back to Pokhara.

Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking - A Nepal Trekking Company is Female Sherpa Trekking Guide Owned and Operated Registered Trekking Organizer Company based in Nepal & Official member of Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) that works together for woman empowerment providing employment opportunities to female trekking guide to make their better life in Himalaya. We team of experienced Sherpa Guides from Everest Himalaya are dedicated in providing with you Best Trekking for the year 2023 and 2024. Copyright ©2023- Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking -A Nepal Trekking Company