Govt. Regd. #: 2617/075
Group Size
1-10 people
Trip Grade
Easy
Accommodation
Tea House
Max. Elevation
3,210m/10,529ft
Meals
All Meals
Transportation
Tourist Bus / Private Car
Best Season
Mar - May & Sept - Nov

The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It’s an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a blend of stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and a moderate trekking experience.

Highlights of the Poon Hill Trek:

  1. Panoramic Sunrise View: The main attraction is the sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210 meters), where you can witness the Himalayan peaks bathed in golden light.
  2. Gurung and Magar Villages: Immerse yourself in the culture of local communities, particularly in villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani.
  3. Scenic Trails: Pass through rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and quaint settlements.
  4. Accessibility: The trek starts from Nayapul, which is easily reachable from Pokhara, making it suitable for travelers with limited time.
  5. Moderate Difficulty: This trek is suitable for beginners and families, with manageable elevations and well-marked trails.

Itinerary:

  1. Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga/Ulleri.
  2. Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani.
  3. Day 3: Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise, trek to Tadapani.
  4. Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk, explore the village.
  5. Day 5: Trek to Nayapul, drive back to Pokhara.

Best Time to Trek:

  • Spring (March to May): Rhododendron forests are in full bloom.
  • Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and stable weather.

Permits: You’ll need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card.


Trip Outline

Detail itinerary

After breakfast, we drive to the trek starting point, Nayapul (1,050m), passing through old villages and meandering, green hills. Terraced paddy fields along the neighboring yet distant hills and the wind gushing in your face make for a pleasant and smooth drive, with time to enjoy the landscape and contemplate the exciting journey ahead. Lunch will be at Hile or Birethanti (1,065m). This initial part of the trail is gentle and passes along simple yet charming settlements and paddy fields. Our trail leads to Tikhedhunga, a small local village which takes about three to four hours to reach.

We ascend at a gentle pace. Lunch is at Ulleri (1,960m) or Banthanti (2,210m), Magar villages where you choose from a variety of dishes with a little bit of Magar twist There are ample opportunities to interact with the locals and learn, understand and get a firsthand experience of their way of life. Along the way, enjoy majestic views of Machapurhre (6,997m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Annapurna South (7,219m), plus the world’s largest rhododendron forest. In March/April, see the unique and colorful scenery of forest flowers

Early start this morning for the short climb to Poon Hill (3,210) for dawn, with its spectacular views in the first rays of sunlight unraveling breathtaking Himalayan beauty – Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m), Nilgiri (6,940m), Varaha Shikhar (7,847m, Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Annapurna III (7,855m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Lamjung Himal (6,931m) and numerous other elegant snowcapped peaks. Sunrise at Poon Hill is a surreal, unforgettable Himalayan experience. Returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, we start the trek to Tadapani (2,630m). – six to seven hours of normal trekking, traversing tranquil deep forests of rhododendrons, bamboos and oaks.

Tadapani to Landruk (1,565m). Hiking duration: 5 to 6 hours: Pass through cultivated land and see the huge transformation over many years due to human influences. Be rewarded in Landruk at its hot springs – truly wonderful to rejuvenate and relax

After breakfast, head downhill through jungle and cross a suspension bridge leading to a water mill. From here, the trail runs along the river bank to Himalpani. Still following the river and climbing a hill, arrive at the village of Landruk (1,565) – home to the Gurung people. Stop for lunch and enjoy the local cuisine before heading on through the valley. Next stop at Tolka (1,500m), located on a hillside with more spectacular mountain views. Continue downhill, all the while enjoying the spectacle of the Annapurna range. Pass through more Gurung villages, seeing the huge farming communities in which they live in. Continue through the villages of Pothana and Dhampus for your first glimpse of Pokhara

We trek to Australian camp then drive to the lake city Pokhara – a tourist destination popular for its ambient lakeside and fine views of the Annapurnas. Explore the large variety of shops, hotels and restaurants, catering to all tastes and preferences. Pokhara will challenge all of your five senses


What's included?

  • All Transport
  • Trekker’s Information Management System(TIMS) card
  • All governmental procedure fees, permits and local taxes.
  • All meals and accommodation throughout the trek.
  • An experienced English speaking trekking guide possessing valid license issued by the government of Nepal.
  • Highly experienced trekking staffs.
  • Travel and rescue arrangements

What's not included?

  • Visa fees/ international airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
  • Hot and cold shower, battery recharge during Everest base camp trek.
  • Personal expenses phone calls, bar bills, extra porters, beverages etc.
  • Personal Everest base camp trekking equipments/gears.
  • Tips for guides, porters and drivers.
  • All others expenses not mentioned in “Trip Cost Includes” section.

Elevation Chart & Map

Map of Poon Hill Trek