Poon Hill Trek – 10 Days

Poon Hill Trek – 10 Days
10 Days
Duration 10 Days
Nepal
Country Nepal
3,210
Max. Altitude 3,210
March–May/September–November/June–August
Best Season March–May/September–November/June–August
1-15
Group/Private 1-15
easy-to-moderate
Grade easy-to-moderate
Rented Vehicles or Shared Public Tourist Bus
Transportation Rented Vehicles or Shared Public Tourist Bus
Kathmandu
Start Kathmandu
Kathmandu
End Kathmandu

Trip Code: PH-01

Drive from Pokhara to Tikhedhunga – Trek to Ulleri (2,100 m) – Trek to Ghorepani (2,850 m) – Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) and return to Ghorepani – Trek to Tadapani (2,706 m) – Trek to Dovan via Chhomrong – Trek to Jhinu Danda – Drive back to Pokhara

Price Per Person

$ 937
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Overview

Introduction to Poon Hill Trek

Experience one of Nepal’s most accessible and scenic treks with our 6-day Poon Hill Trek, designed for both beginners and seasoned hikers. This trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, lush rhododendron forests, terraced villages and vibrant Gurung communities. Beginning near Pokhara, the trail winds through traditional villages, charming tea houses and dense forests, culminating in the unforgettable sunrise view from Poon Hill. This all-inclusive trek package includes accommodations, meals, local transportation and experienced English-speaking guides, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure.

The Poon Hill Trek is located in the Annapurna region, part of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and moderate adventure. Along the way, trekkers pass through charming Gurung and Magar villages, dense forests, terraced fields and serene streams. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m), offering panoramic views of Himalayan giants including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri and Hiunchuli.

Poon Hill Trek Highlights

  • Early morning sunrise at Poon Hill for spectacular Himalayan vistas
  • Trek through vibrant rhododendron forests in spring
  • Walk through traditional Gurung and Magar villages
  • Experience authentic Himalayan hospitality in tea houses
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Short and manageable trek suitable for beginners

What Makes This Trek Special?

The Poon Hill Trek is ideal for travelers who want to experience the Himalayas without a long or highly challenging journey. It combines moderate trekking with cultural immersion, allowing hikers to witness the daily life of local communities while enjoying some of Nepal’s most famous mountain panoramas. The sunrise at Poon Hill is the highlight, offering photographers and trekkers alike a truly memorable experience. Unlike longer treks, this journey provides rewarding Himalayan experiences in a compact, six-day itinerary.

Trek Route Experience

Starting from Pokhara, the trek begins with a scenic drive to Tikhedhunga or Nayapul. From there, you climb through terraced fields, lush forests and traditional villages. Highlights along the trail include Ulleri, with its iconic stone staircase, Ghorepani, the gateway to Poon Hill and Tadapani, a peaceful village surrounded by rhododendron forests. The trail also offers glimpses of local farms, rivers and wildlife.

After the summit of Poon Hill, the route descends through charming villages to Chomrong, Dovan and Jhinu Danda, where trekkers can relax in natural hot springs. The trek concludes back in Pokhara, offering a satisfying balance of adventure, culture and relaxation.

How Difficult Is the Poon Hill Trek?

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate

No technical climbing skills are required

Daily walks: 4–6 hours on uneven and sometimes steep terrain

Maximum altitude: 3,210 m at Poon Hill

Suitable for beginners with good physical fitness

With proper pacing, hydration and comfortable accommodations along the way, most trekkers can complete this journey successfully.

Best Time to Trek

Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures, clear skies

Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, stable weather and excellent visibility

Winter: Fewer crowds, colder temperatures

Monsoon (June–August): Heavy rainfall; trail may be slippery

Accommodation and Meals

  • Tea house accommodations in villages along the trail
  • Twin-sharing rooms with shared bathrooms
  • Hearty meals: dal bhat, noodles, soups, potatoes and pasta
  • Authentic local hospitality prioritized over luxury

Permits Required

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card

These permits are mandatory and arranged prior to starting the trek.

Why Book the Poon Hill Trek With Us?

  • Experienced English-speaking guides and local porters
  • Support with permits and transportation
  • Safety-focused trekking with proper acclimatization and advice
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Cultural and environmental insights along the trail

Read Before You Book – Poon Hill Trek

  • This trek involves moderate uphill and downhill walks; a basic fitness level is required
  • Weather can change quickly; carry layers and waterproof gear
  • Altitude is moderate; Poon Hill is at 3,210 m, so acclimatization is usually manageable
  • Travel insurance covering trekking is strongly recommended
  • Comfortable trekking shoes, trekking poles and a good backpack are advised

Places You Will See

Rhododendron bloom

Rhododendron bloom

Panoramic mountain views

Panoramic mountain views

Lush rhododendron forests

Lush rhododendron forests

Itinerary

Highlights

  • Airport pickup and hotel transfer assistance
  • Comfortable check-in at hotel in Kathmandu
  • Meet your trekking guide and briefing session
  • First introduction to Nepal’s culture and lifestyle
  • Free time to explore nearby areas or rest
  • Begin your Himalayan trekking preparation

Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: 30 to 45 minutes airport transfer
Distance: Approx. 6 km drive

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey while getting your first feel of Nepal’s vibrant capital city. In the evening, a short briefing about the trek will be conducted, where you’ll meet your guide and go through the upcoming journey details.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Dinner
Difficulty Level: Easy

Highlights

  • Final trekking gear preparation and checking
  • Assistance with permits and documentation
  • Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
  • Explore cultural streets and local markets
  • Taste traditional Nepali food and cafes
  • Relax before starting the trek

Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: 4 to 5 hours sightseeing and preparation

This day is reserved for final preparation before the trek. You can check your gear, arrange missing equipment and complete necessary permit formalities. If time allows, you may also explore cultural landmarks around Kathmandu and experience its historic and spiritual atmosphere.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Easy

Highlights

  • Scenic highway journey through hills and rivers
  • Rural villages and terraced farmland views
  • Occasional Himalayan mountain sightings
  • Arrival in beautiful lakeside city Pokhara
  • Relaxing evening at Phewa Lake
  • Explore cafes and lakeside streets

Max Elevation: 822 meters
Duration: 6 to 8 hours drive
Distance: Approx. 200 km

You begin a scenic drive toward Pokhara along riverside highways surrounded by hills, villages and terraced farms. The journey offers beautiful countryside views and glimpses of Himalayan peaks on clear days. Upon arrival, enjoy a peaceful evening by the lakeside.

Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Moderate (long drive)

Highlights

  • Scenic drive to trekking trailhead
  • Start of Annapurna trekking route
  • Walk through villages and farmlands
  • Stone stair climb toward Ulleri
  • Experience Magar culture and lifestyle
  • First night in mountain tea house

Max Elevation: 2,050 meters
Duration: 5 to 6 hours drive and short trek
Distance: Approx. 50 km drive + trekking

After breakfast, you drive toward the trekking starting point and begin your hike toward Ulleri. The trail gradually ascends through stone steps, villages and forested landscapes, offering your first real Himalayan trekking experience.

Accommodation: Tea House in Ulleri
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Highlights

  • Trek through rhododendron forest trails
  • Beautiful waterfalls and natural scenery
  • Gradual mountain ascent experience
  • Scenic viewpoints along the route
  • Arrival at Ghorepani village
  • Sunset over Himalayan peaks

Max Elevation: 2,874 meters
Duration: 5 to 6 hours trek
Distance: Approx. 10 km

The trail takes you through dense rhododendron forests, waterfalls and peaceful mountain paths. As you ascend higher, views of snow-capped peaks begin to appear, creating a truly magical Himalayan atmosphere.

Accommodation: Tea House in Ghorepani
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

Highlights

  • Sunrise view from Poon Hill viewpoint
  • Golden Himalayan mountain panorama
  • Photography opportunities at dawn
  • Forest trek through rhododendron woods
  • Peaceful ridge walking experience
  • Overnight stay in mountain village

Max Elevation: 3,210 meters
Duration: 6 to 7 hours trek
Distance: Approx. 12 km

Early morning hike takes you to Poon Hill, where you witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After descending back, you continue trekking through forest trails toward Tadapani.

Accommodation: Tea House in Tadapani
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Highlights

  • Scenic downhill forest trail
  • Visit traditional Gurung village
  • Cultural interaction with locals
  • Views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre
  • Stone-built Himalayan village experience
  • Peaceful rural atmosphere

Max Elevation: 2,630 meters
Duration: 3 to 4 hours trek
Distance: Approx. 6 km

The trail descends through forests and scenic hills toward Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village known for its culture and mountain views. You can explore the village and learn about local Himalayan lifestyles.

Accommodation: Tea House in Ghandruk
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Highlights

  • Final descent from trekking region
  • Scenic drive through countryside
  • Rivers, bridges and villages en route
  • Return to relaxing Pokhara city
  • Free evening at lakeside

Max Elevation: 1,940 meters
Duration: 5 to 6 hours trek and drive
Distance: Approx. 55 km combined

After breakfast, you descend from Ghandruk and drive back to Pokhara. The journey passes through rivers, bridges and terraced landscapes before reaching the lakeside city.

Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Highlights

  • Scenic return drive to Kathmandu
  • River and hill landscape views
  • Free time for shopping
  • Explore local markets and streets
  • Farewell evening in Kathmandu

Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: 6 to 8 hours drive
Distance: Approx. 200 km

You travel back to Kathmandu through scenic highways along rivers and hills. After arrival, you can relax or explore the city for shopping and cultural experiences.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Easy

Highlights

  • Airport drop-off service
  • End of trekking journey
  • Himalayan travel memories
  • Final city views of Kathmandu
  • Smooth departure assistance
  • Farewell from Nepal

Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: 30 to 45 minutes airport transfer
Distance: Approx. 6 km drive

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport. Your journey ends with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, villages, forests and cultural experiences.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Easy

Cost Include

  • Tea house accommodations during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) on trek
  • Private transportation to/from Pokhara as per itinerary
  • Experienced English-speaking guide and porters
  • ACAP & TIMS permits
  • First-aid kit and emergency support

Cost Exclude

  • International flights to/from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Meals and accommodation in Pokhara
  • Travel insurance (mandatory for trekking)
  • Personal expenses: snacks, drinks, tips, laundry
  • Additional costs due to weather delays or unforeseen events

Packing List for Poon Hill Trek – 10 Days

Proper preparation is essential for a successful trek to Poon Hill. Weather in the Annapurna region can change quickly, so packing the right gear ensures comfort, safety, and an enjoyable trekking experience.

Clothing

  • Thermal layers
  • trekking shirts
  • fleece
  • down jacket
  • waterproof jacket
  • trekking socks
  • gloves
  • hat

Footwear

  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • comfortable shoes for evenings

Accessories

  • Sunglasses
  • sunscreen
  • lip balm
  • trekking poles
  • daypack
  • headlamp

Gear

  • Sleeping bag (-15°C)
  • trekking backpack (30–40 L)
  • camera
  • power bank
  • waterproof covers

Documents

  • Passport
  • visa
  • permits
  • insurance
  • emergency contacts

Optional

  • Snacks
  • towel
  • guidebook
  • journal
  • hand sanitizer
  • cash in small denominations

Photo Gallery

FAQs

Yes, the Poon Hill Trek is well-suited for beginners, owing to its moderate elevation gain and clearly marked trails. It provides an excellent introduction to trekking in Nepal, allowing participants to experience the Himalayas in a manageable and rewarding manner.

 

The main highlight of the trek is the early morning ascent to Poon Hill, which offers a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Trekkers are treated to panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, making it a truly memorable experience.

Although the trail is well-defined and navigable, engaging a professional guide is highly recommended. A guide not only ensures the safety and well-being of trekkers but also provides valuable local knowledge, cultural insights, and assistance with permits and accommodations, thereby enhancing the overall trekking experience.

Price Per Person

$ 937
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