(5 Reviews)
Duration: 8 Days
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Poon Hill Trek is a journey that takes trekkers to Ghorepani Poon Hill, one of the most prominent vantage points in Nepal to relish an exquisite vista of Mount Annapurna range. The trek provides an authentic Himalayan life underneath the shadow of the colossal giants. During the trek, the towering silver mountains make for daunting sights as you trek through river valleys laden with lush woodlands and forests. All in all, the Poon Hill Trek is an outstanding travel option to undertake an amazing voyage with the great massifs offering an expectant watch while the local communities provide tender care and hospitality.
The gorgeous short trekking itinerary of the Poon Hill Trek takes place in the Annapurna region. Starting the journey from Kathmandu, the trek begins with a short flight to Pokhara, the popular tourist hub of Nepal. The lakeside city of Pokhara is a beguiling city where there are many natural wonders to be explored and experienced. The trek, furthermore, has trails that go through ethnic Magar and Gurung settlements and villages along the Annapurna Mountains until you finally reach the vantage point of Poon Hill. When anybody talks about the best vantage points in Nepal, Poon Hill, and Ghorepani often comes out as the most preferred among the rest of the vantage points, especially in the Annapurna region. The reason for this is the splendid panorama of the magnificent Annapurna Himalayas that can be seen from Poon Hill. The 360 degrees vista of the Himalayas like Machhapuchhre (6997m), Tukuche (6920m), Nilgiri (7061m), Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli(6441m), Annapurna South (7219m), Gangapurna (7454m), Lamjung Himal (6986m), and Mt Dhaulagiri (8167m) from Poon Hill always leaves the most daring and unforgettable impression on the trekkers. In addition, the Annapurna Poon Hill Sunrise View Trek is also an easy trek where there are no chances of being altitude sick. No previous trekking experience is necessary to complete this trekking journey either. Correspondingly, the journey is also a beautiful mix of the delightful Annapurna's natural terrain and its cultural features.
The Poon Hill trek by Himalayan Recreation Treks and Expedition is the best short trekking trip in the Annapurna region. It is a well-rounded package that is crafted with the utmost care and incorporates all of the best features of the region to present trekkers with memorable experiences in a short amount of time. Our team of well-trained and professional staff members is always working towards providing the best services and we guarantee the best trekking experience!
If you're looking for a short and easy trek on a limited budget, the Poonhill trek is just perfect for you. Although the trek is short and easy, it doesn't fall behind on the scenery and natural aspects. In less than a week, the trek leads to one of the best vantage points of the country and the diverse ethnic villages along the way.
In a short period, during this trek, you get a chance to witness and experience the ethnic village lifestyle and culture of the Annapurna region. You'll pass through a few tiny villages of the Gurung and Tamang community on the way representing the local culture and traditions of the region.
The main cause why you should consider trekking to Poon hill is because of the magical sunrise view offered by this place. Poonhill is regarded as one of the best vantage points of Nepal for getting the sunrise view over the mountains. The sunrise view seen from Poonhill is beyond anyone's expectations proving the term heaven on earth into reality.
Along with the magical sunrise view, the trek also provides you with 360-degree panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range. From the top of the viewpoint, you can get mesmerizing views of giant peaks as they change their colour with the rising sun.
Travellers can expect some light physical activities.
Narayan Baniya (nature pathfinder) and Sumir Gyawali (yoga teacher) guide me in this adventure. Actually they manage perfectly my short time and all the noisy burocratic thinks like documents or Covid control. They makes me feel safely and had care of me since the moment I reserved .. now I’m at home and still feel the power of their experience, friendship and good nature. They makes me “enter” in the Nepali lifestyle, from metropolitan Kathmandu until the top of the mountain were the vibes are soo deep. Their good vibes are compatible with all, Sumir had a clinical yogi eye and Narayan the calm you need to arrive over the clouds.. it was like a day dreaming and I never forget this experience out of time. Thank you Antonio
A great & well organised experience. I highly recommend Himalayan recreation to anyone planning to trek to the Annapurna Basecamp. Everything from start to finish was all taken care of, taking away all of the stress of organisation so that I could focus on enjoying the trek. Ashok was very responsive on whatsapp at all times and was able to adapt the tour when circumstances changed. For example, when my flight to Pokhara was cancelled, Ashok arranged for a friendly driver to take me all the way there by private car instead (I did have to wait 1.5 hours for the driver, but traffic in Kathmandu is difficult). My guide Santosh and porter Bal were very friendly and accommodating and were good company during the trek. They have the English skills required to answer the majority of questions, particularly relating to the trek. Overall, a very good experience. The trek itself is very beautiful. It has everything, including rural villages with rice terraces, bamboo forests, and epic mountains. The accommodation is basic but everything you need for a trek (much better than camping). The weather forecast is inaccurate - I enjoyed decent weather despite the forecast being constant rain/thunder. I found the difficulty to be much easier than others state, and could have completed the trek in 5-6 days. Almost anyone with a decent level of fitness would be able to complete this trek (adjusting the duration to accommodate).
The Annupurna Poon Hill Trip is a lovely trek through the lower elevations of the Annupurna range of the Himalayas. Starting from Pokhara, a 90 minute drive in a taxi drops us off at the beginning of the trek and then goes up from there. My guide, Raj, was absolutely awesome and provided a lot of great information about the area during our trek over the several days that this trek takes place. The second day of the climb takes us to the small town of Ghorepani, and then an early climb the next morning to Poon Hill. I went on this trip in the 2nd year of the virus. According to my guide, the number of travelers was still way down from pre-pandemic years. So, in one way, it is a great time to travel since you will have most of the trails to yourself. The tea houses are also pretty empty. The negative side to this is that there are limited menu items and several places didn't have WiFi. There are a few recommendations I would make about this trip. The first is the ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. I took the bus and regretted it about halfway there. While the distance is only 200 km, it took about 8 hours on the bus. If I were to do this again, I would have opted for a 30 minute flight. It costs more, but is so worth it. Second, make sure you bring toilet paper with you on the trek. The tea houses I stayed in during my trek didn't have any. So, bringing a roll of your own is a huge help. And speaking of bathrooms, most of the toilets along the route are not the western style sit-down toilets. Rather they are the hole in the grounds. So, make sure to use the bathroom before leaving the tea house since the next western-style toilet isn't until the next guest house, which could be a half day hike away. Finally, if you have time after the trek, spend an extra day in Pokhara. It is much more interesting than Kathmandu. Otherwise, the trek was wonderful and the folks at Himalayan Recreation did a great job in staying in touch, picking me up at the airport when I arrived in Nepal, and provided excellent service all the way through.
This trip was the first we took with those guys. It was very nice, guide was interesting and gave us a lot information about Bhaktapur and Nepal itself. After they arranged few more trips for us. First was Chitwan national park and jeep safari. After Pokhara and paragliding. And then return to Kathmandu. It was very helpful to have someone local there who can arrange flights, pick ups, all the activities and return wherever needed. We didn't have more time, but all the time we had, they managed to organize for us, without stressing or worrying. I truly recommend them, because they are very responsible and helpful for any situation. I firstly met them in Kathmandu for our first trip and they helped us with all the others.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by one of the company representatives who will help you get transferred to your Hotel in the city. Further information about the plans and programs of the trip will also be conveyed to you. Overnight stay at the Hotel.
Things to look out for:
Meet and greet at the airport.
Today, you will have a guided sightseeing tour of the four major UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu City. The heritage sites include the Kathmandu Durbar Square- a sprawling complex of old buildings, temples, monuments, and statues as well as the old royal palace of the medieval Nepalese monarchy, the holy Pashupatinath Temple, the Swayambhunath Stupa and the Boudhanath Temple. Each of the sites holds important religious and historical characters that reflect Nepal’s rich dexterity in terms of architecture and art. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your Hotel. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.
Visit sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, Pashupatinath temple.
Stroll around the Kathmandu Durbar square,
Visit famous Buddhist pilgrimage sites; Swayambhunath and Bouddhanath stupa.
Keep in mind:
You'll also have a short briefing session regarding your trek after the city sightseeing. During the briefing session, you can clear all the confusion regarding the trek.
Early in the morning, we will take a short 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. You will be transferred to the airport for the flight. The short flight is riddled with amazing views of the Nepali Himalayas that surround the peripheries of the valleys. Pokhara is the tourist hub of the country. From the city, we will begin our trek towards the village of Ulleri. Following a drive to Nayapul, we continue the journey from the town as the trail goes through the amazing forests of Cedar and Pine and coruscates along the hillside towards the Burundi Khola. We walk for a while before reaching Ulleri. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ulleri.
A short flight to Pokhara.
Walkthrough hillsides.
After breakfast, we will ascend down towards the village of Ghorepani. Looming views of the Himalayan peaks also add a sense of beauty and awe to the landscape. The Magar village of Ghorepani is situated right at the base of Poon Hill and is one of the most beautiful Himalayan villages in Nepal. The view of the Annapurna South (7219m) and the Nilgiri Peak (7061m) from the village is also quite astounding. Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Ghorepani.
The walkthrough lush forests.
Views of mountains from Ghorepani.
It is a short and easy walk today through the lush green forests with few uphills. You can enjoy the serene environment as you make your way to Ghorepani.
Today is an anticipated day of the trekking trip. Early in the morning at dawn before sunrise, we will make our way towards the vantage point of Poon Hill. When you reach Poon Hill, you will be able to witness a dream-like moment. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Pokhara valley as well, and peaks such as Tukuche (6920m), Nilgiri (7061m), Annapurna South (7219m), Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli(6441m), Tarke Kang (7193m), Gangapurna (7454m), Lamjung Himal (6986m), Machhapuchhre (6997m) and Mt Dhaulagiri (8167m) tower in front of you closely. After spending time enjoying the views at Poon Hill, we will trek back to Ghorepani and have our breakfast. From here, we will descend through amazing rhododendron woods and pass by beautiful waterfalls towards Tadapani. Overnight stay at a guesthouse at Tadapani.
Uphill morning walk to Poon Hill.
Majestic sunrise view.
View of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range.
The walk today starts very early in the morning as you don't want to miss the sunrise view from Poon Hill. The sunrise view is from the top is one of a kind. So, make sure to enjoy every bit of it.
From Tadapani, we will ascend through steep terrains towards Nayapul. Dark forests of scented pine and Himalayan junipers ornament the trail with their verdant canopies of emerald foliage. Crossing a ravine, we will enter Nayapul again. Views of the Machhapuchhre Himal (6997m), the Hiunchuli Peak (6441m), the Annapurna South (7219m), and the Dhaulagiri Peak (8167m) while trekking is quite stunning. Making our way downwards towards Birethanti, we will trek through numerous villages to finally reach Nayapul. From here, we will have a drive back to Pokhara. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Pokhara.
Downhill walk to Nayapul.
Scenic drive to Pokhara.
After you arrive in Pokhara, you can choose to either take a rest or go out and take a stroll around Pokhara city.
From Pokhara, we will have a drive back towards the capital. The drive back is also a great journey where you can see fleeting glimpses of the countryside life of Nepal. The stunning hills and the winding terrace farms slowly give way towards the sprawling urban city as you reach nearer to Kathmandu. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Kathmandu.
Diverse landscapes and scenery during the drive.
Farewell dinner in Pokhara.
Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can go shopping for souvenirs around the city and you'll have a farewell dinner with our team in the evening.
Approximately three hours before your scheduled flight, you will be transferred to the airport by one of our staff members, from where you will depart.
All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
Three nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
One nights accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
Air fair for Kathmandu to Pokhara
3 standard meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
Best available twin sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek.
Kathmandu city tours, including tour guide, and private transportation
Himalayan Recreation’s experienced, government licensed, English speaking trekking guide during the Poon Hill trip.
Porter to carry your baggage (1 Porter = 2 Trekkers)
All costs of staff which includes food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment’s and medicines.
Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist bus and Pokhara to Nayapul to Pokhara by Private car
Duffel bag use while trekking, Trekking map, Himalayan Recreation's T-Shirt and trip achievement certificate
Required Annapurna Permit fee and TIMS Fee
First aid medicine Kit
Farewell dinner with Cultural show in a fine restaurant on second last day.
Government taxes & office service charge
Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
Personal Travel insurance
Alcoholic drinks and beverages
Personal trekking equipment or expenses
Tips for trekking guides, porters and drivers (tipping is expected)
Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the 'Price Includes' section.
Best time to trek Poon Hill
Weather is one of the crucial factors in determining the time and destination of the trek. As the Poonhill trek is a short and easy trek at a low altitude, it is possible to complete this trek throughout the year.
Although the trek can be done throughout the year, spring and autumn are the two best seasons to complete this trek. In the spring season, the climate is mild and the rainfall is quite low making the trekking relaxing. During this season, the sun shines brightly with the clear sky and the environment is clean and fresh. Similar to spring, the temperature is quite favorable in autumn as well. You get to enjoy a stunning view of the mountain ranges and green landscapes since the sky is clear. The trek can be completed in winter and monsoon as well but you might have to face a few difficulties during these seasons.
Food during Poon Hill trek
The food during the Poon Hill trek is nice and adjustable compared to other treks. As the trek is not much on the high altitude, you can get various options on the menu. The menu generally includes traditional Nepali foods that consist of traditional bread, eggs, potatoes, and soup for breakfast while lunch and dinner items include Dal Bhat (lentil soup, rice, and veggies), fried rice, noodles, etc depending on the lodge and destination. You can also find some western and Asian foods like; pizza, dumplings, pancakes, etc.
Accommodation during Poon Hill trek
Similar to the food availability, the accommodation facility during the Poonhill trek is a lot better than other high-altitude treks. You can enjoy the hotel rooms with in-room showers, western-style flush toilets, a Free WIFI connection, and in-room plugs to charge your stuff during this trek.
Poon Hill trek difficulty
The poon Hill trek falls under Easy grade trekking. This level of trekking is suitable for everyone including beginner trekkers with few to no past trekking experiences. The trek involves a few uphill walks and ranges from 4- 7 days. The highest altitude during this grade of trek doesn't exceed more than 3500m. It is the best option for beginner trekkers looking for a trek with a diverse range of natural elements.
The length of the Poon Hill Trek depends on the starting and ending point of the trek. There are several routes you can choose from for the Poon Hill Trek. In general, it is one of the shortest treks in the Annapurna region that ranges from 4 to 7 days.
Poon Hill Trek is one of the easiest trekking trails in the Annapurna region suitable for beginner trekkers as well as kids. You don't need to be extremely fit and have trekking experience to complete this trek. If you don't have any poor health conditions and are fit, you're good to go for the trek.
It depends on the route you choose to take. You can either drive to Ulleri from Pokhara and hike for a day to reach Ghorepani or you can choose to hike to Tikhedhunga via Nayapul, which takes 2 days of hiking to reach Ghorepani. Generally, you can reach Poonhill in 1-3 days from Pokhara.
From Ulleri, you'll climb around 700 steps through rhododendron and oak forests. Another hour of ascent will lead you to the village of Ghorepani. The ascent from Ghorepani to Poonhill takes around 2 hours which is approximately 3600 steps.
No, you do not need a sleeping bag for the Poon Hill Trek. There are lodges and tea houses along the trail, and especially at Ghorepani, the village is full of lodges among which some will offer you facilities like that of the city.
No, you cannot drive to Poon Hill, the last point up to where the vehicle or any other ride goes is up to the village Ulleri. From Ulleri you'll have to walk for a day to reach Ghorepani.
Poon Hill is one of the best vantage points of the Annapurna region to view the 360-degree range of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain. You can get majestic views of mountains such as Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), Hinchuli, Annapurna III, Dhampus peak, Dhaulagiri II, and many other peaks from the Poon Hill.
Yes, if you trek Poon Hill during the wintertime, you'll come across heavy snowfalls and trails full of snow. While, during the time of spring, autumn and summer, there's likely no chance of snowfalls.
To get to Poon Hill, you first need to get to Pokhara. From Pokhara, there are several routes you can take to get to Poon Hill. You can either drive to Ulleri and trek for a day or drive to Nayapul and trek through Tikhedhunga to get to Poonhill.
It is totally up to you if you decide to trek independently or hire a guide. But, there are no restrictions for needing a guide, so you're free to trek by yourself as well. If you choose to trek independently, you'll have to arrange all the accommodation and permits by yourself.
Poon Hill is situated at an elevation of 3210m above sea level. Compared to other viewpoints and trekking destinations of the region, it is relatively at a low altitude which can be reached easily in a short time.
You can buy the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek map anywhere in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you're having a hard time finding the map, you can visit bookshops in Thamel of Kathmandu. Also, if you're trekking with us, we'll provide you with the trek map beforehand.
The total distance from Ghorepani to Poon Hill is 2-3 km which takes around 1 hour to reach.
The cost for the Poon Hill trek depends on your itinerary, accommodation facilities, and the mode of transportation you choose to use. But in general, the cost ranges from $400 to $1200.
In the summer and monsoon, the temperature at Poon Hill ranges from 9 to 24 degrees which decreases with rainfalls. The average temperature during spring and autumn is 10 to 24 degrees. While, during the coldest time of the year winter, the temperature can decline as low as 3 degrees.
As it is a short and easy trek, there is no need for heavy packing. You need to pack weather-friendly clothes including;
A pair of hiking trousers and hiking shorts.
Lightweight nylon or polyester trekking shirts.
A waterproof shell jacket and trousers.
Underwears.
Headwears.
Footwears.
Gloves.
Trekking shoes.
Rain cover.
And few essential gears like;
Toiletries and first aid.
Camera & personal electronics.
Power bank.
Water bottle and filter.
Trekking poles.
Raincover.