Trek to Poon Hill is one of the most popular trekking routes among trekkers with less time frame and want to enjoy trekking as much as the scenery. Poon Hill Trekking is the second most popular west Nepal trekking path after the Annapurna base camp trek.
Trek to Poon Hill is favored by visitors planning a short stay in Nepal and those unwilling to embark on the long trek to base camp in Annapurna. The trekking can be done in brief for 3 days but the usual period is 5 days.
Natural beauty, unrivaled mountain views, and spectacular Himalayan sunrise are the main attractions of the trekking route.
Poon Hill is the highlight and Nepal’s most renowned viewpoint. It is probably the second best-known outlook after Kala Pattar.
There is a numerical option to extend your outing here, and time and imaginative capacity are as far as possible to the length of the trek.
Trek to Poon Hill is an adventurous journey passing through various hotspots of Kaski district more than fun to describe.
The path passes through patchwork valleys, thick forests of rhododendrons and thundering waterfalls, where you can cool your body and relax. The high mountains which you will see as you reach the highest points of this trek are alluring around every corner.
Trek to Poon Hill includes a climb from 1070 m to 3210 m above sea level where you can witness the breathtaking beauty of the mountain ranges, wilderness,and lifestyle of indigenous communities such as Gurungs and Magars.
You will also trek through thick Rhododendron forests full of flora and fauna and deep valleys, below the Annapurna with the nice peak of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) dominating the horizon.
Although higher regions of Nepal are under the snowline all year round. Located southwest of the huge Annapurna and over a vast waterway provides you an amazing view of the valley along Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, South Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri.
In the end, you will climb Poon Hill early in the morning to enjoy the most spectacular mountain scenery on earth. When the sun rises and hits, along with other peaks, the Himalayan giants like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, gradually magic starts to appear right before your eyes. It is an enjoyable trek that can be enjoyed by any nature lover and friendly landscapes.
The visitor, trekkers are obliged to get the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card before joining the trekking path that comes under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project.
Elevation and altitude profile for Trek to Poon hill
Highlights
- One of the best treks Nepal can offer.
- Panoramic view of sunrise from Poon Hill.
- Move through a woodland of rhododendrons.
- Pinnacle sceneries & lovely countryside.
- Surrounded by a 7000-meter-high Himalayan wall.
An ideal time for Poon Hill Trek
The best time for the Poon Hill trek is the autumn months of September, October, and November. March, April and May spring months are another favorable time to walk around the city.
Owing to the good weather and less likelihood of flooding, the Trek to Poon Hill in these seasons is favorable.
Autumn (September-November)
The peak season for traveling and trekking around Nepal is fall. You can enjoy the spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and the daytime favorable temperatures.
The skies are cloudless, and you will be spellbound by snow-capped mountains in Winter. Cultural exploration is an opportunity because it is a festive time in the region.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is the next best time in the area to go trekking. The region’s scenic wildlife turns beautifully spectacular with wildflowers thriving all over the hills.
During the trek, you will get good weather conditions and limited rainfall. After winter hibernation the region’s active wildlife comes alive.
Off-season
The summer-monsoon offseason treks are difficult because of the hot and humid conditions. The area is experiencing heavy rainfall which leads to slippery and leech-infested trails.
Winters bring heavy snowfall with freezing temperatures into the area. With proper packing and planning the Trek to Poon Hill is possible throughout the year.
Tips for Trek to Poon Hill
The Trek to Poon Hill in the Annapurna region is a short and scenic trek. The trek is fairly easy and takes comfortable trails along the way. In this trek you will trek for about 4-5 hours.
You must walk the well-traveled stone steps across the region’s scenic landscapes. The trek could pose a threat to inexperienced trekkers. The trails also cross the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) protected landscapes.
In addition, preventive steps should be taken to combat altitude sickness as this is a low altitude trek. Acclimatization and hydration will improve the treatment of altitude sickness. Throughout the trek you should slowly trek at a gentle pace.
For the trek a basic fitness level is necessary. Before the journey, you can practice well with aerobic activities such as jogging, biking, swimming, cycling and more. In fact, to complete the trek you will need a good mental attitude.
You can also pack well with the appropriate trekking clothing and trekking supplies. Warm clothes, first aid, toiletries, shoes, and others are important for the trek. Overall, the Poon Hill trek in the Annapurna region is a lovely and pleasant trek.
Food and Accommodation during the trek to Poon Hill
The Trek to Poon Hill is a tea house trek that means you will be staying at the region’s local tea houses. The tea houses are a small hotel or guest houses providing simple food and lodging facilities.
Such food and lodging facilities are simple in nature and no fancy facilities can be provided along the road. You are going to get twin beds, pillows, and soft blankets.
You can bring your own toilet paper, as toilet paper facilities are not provided by the teahouses.
The toilets are outside of the main building, in general. There is also a chance to explore the local lifestyle while we live in Ghandruk’s Gurung homestays. In addition, you can also stay at the best hotels in Pokhara and Kathmandu towns.
In addition, the tea houses along the path serve Dal Bhat. It includes rice, dal (pulses), spinach, lentils, gundruk, beef, pickles, and many more.
You will get a wide selection of Western and Continental cuisine including pasta, pizza, taco, momo, laphing, chowmein, and more.
Additionally, you will get a variety of hot drinks like tea, lemon water, coffee, Rhododendron tea, hot cocoa, mint tea, alcoholic beverages and more.
Food and lodging services aren’t luxurious but served with love and care certainly. The food and lodging facilities along the trail are fantastic overall.
Why should you trek to Poon Hill?
Short and enjoyable trek
In the Annapurna region, the Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Ghandruk Trek is a short and easy trek. Many trekkers often use this trek for the more challenging treks on Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Everest Base Camp as a practice or training course.
The trek is also short-lived and has relatively more open trails. This is also a low altitude hike, so you don’t have to think about the sickness from altitude. But a simple process of acclimatization during the trek is necessary.
Amazing mountain panoramas
One of the trek’s major benefits is the stunning mountain views. The spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Mt. Dhaulagiri and others can be observed.
Moreover, on the backdrop of the vast green hills, the silver mountains look amazingly stunning In addition to this, the fun scent of the different plants along the trail is also tempting.
Cultural exploration
You do get a chance to discover the community’s history, lifestyle, and tradition. The stunning settlement of Tamang strewn along the trails takes you back in time.
In addition, you also have a chance to live at the Gurung Homestays in Ghandruk village. The traditional lifestyle and architecture will love the place.
Spectacular sunrise over Poon Hill
The stunning sunrise from the Poon Hill viewpoint is the highlight of the trek. One of the best viewpoints to watch the glorious Himalayan sunrise is the Poon Hill Viewpoint.
In addition, you can watch the sun’s golden rays falling over the silver mountains. The spectacular trek to the Poon Hill viewpoint will give you a lifetime experience.
Similar trips you may like:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
Day 03: Drive to Pokhra by Tourist bus.
Day 04: Pokhara to Tikhe Dhunga (1495m)
Day 05: TikheDhunga to Ghorepani (2850m)
Day 06: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3201m) and trek to Tadapani
Day 07: Tadapani to Ghandrung (2630m)
Day 08: Ghandruk to Birethanti and drive to Pokhara.
Trek to Poon Hill 8 Days Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Transfer your hotel in Kathmandu.
Our representative will pick you up from the Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport and move you to the hotel. Throughout the evening, you can relax and walk around the city. You live at the Kathmandu hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
You should go on a sightseeing tour of the city after breakfast since it's a free day. Our leader and a team member will give you a short brief of the whole trek. You will find your trekking guide, as well as other crew members.
The team member will brief you on the trekking kit and supplies package lists. Such trekking gears can be bought or leased at and around Thamel in Kathmandu.
If you have some spare time left on the day, you can take a full tour of the Kathmandu Valley cultural landmarks.
The UNESCO Kathmandu World Heritage Sites are of significant cultural and historical significance. The Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur medieval Durbar Squares are an open museum in and of itself.
The ancient cultural palaces, temples, and monuments can be seen. Inimitable cultural systems and architectures. The famous Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Changu Narayan, and Boudhanath pilgrimage sites are also on the cards. Such pilgrimage sites are worshipped by both the Buddhist community and the Hindu community.
After the tour is complete, we pack up and prepare for the trek. We live overnight at the Kathmandu hotel.
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (by bus)
Time: 6 to 7 hours
Our representative will pick you up from the hotel after breakfast, and take you on a scenic drive to Pokhara Lake City. After passing the beautiful landscapes of hilly green landscapes, the drive takes about 7-8 hours to arrive at Pokhara.
After you arrive in Pokhara you can stay at a hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara. At the hotel, you will get your lunch and go on a sightseeing tour if time passes. You will go on a Tal Barahi Mandir pilgrimage, and go on a Lake Phewa boat ride.
The beautiful beaches on Lakeside have plenty of cafes, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and more. The place's vibrant and joyous atmosphere can tie you in a spell. You are going to spend the night at Pokhara Hotel.
Day 04: Pokhara to Tikhe Dhunga (1495m)
Time: 2 to 3 hours
You start your drive to Hile via Nayapul, after breakfast. A scenic drive takes you through the hilly region's green landscapes. The tour is absolutely stunning, and from the window, you can admire the magnificent mountains.
Moreover, the view from the numerous stops along the ride to the snow-capped mountains is awe-inspiring. Completing the journey takes about 2 hours. You should rest and stay overnight at a lodge after you get to Hile.
Day 05: TikheDhunga to Ghorepani (2850m)
Time: 6 to 7 hours
After breakfast, you will begin your trek from Hile to Ghorepani (2860 m). The path takes you across the beautiful region's scenic landscapes. You cross the region's scattered settlements before arriving in Ghorepani.
In addition, you will cross the trail along the famous Ulleri stone stairs. Completing this beautiful trek will take about 6-7 hours.
Lush alpine forest trails eventually lead you to Ghorepani. You will stay overnight at a teahouse in Ghorepani which is run by the group.
Day 06: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3201m) and trek to Tadapani
Time: 7 to 8 hours
After an early breakfast, you continue your 45-minute hike to the spectacular viewpoint of Poon Hill (3210 m). From the viewpoint, you will observe the breathtaking view of the sunrise.
You will watch the awe-inspiring rays of sun falling in all their glory over the snow-capped mountains.
After watching the sunrise view and taking amazing pictures you began your descending trek from Ghorepani. You then descend back from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2630 m).
The downhill trek is fast, and the trek is easy to enjoy. Besides that, you will be charmed by the region's stunning waterfalls and vast orange orchards.
In addition, along the way you can taste local oranges too. After a trek of around 4 hours, you will arrive at the Tadapani village. You are going to stay overnight at a Tadapani Teahouse.
Day 07: Tadapani to Ghandrung (2630m)
Time: 3 hours
After breakfast, you will begin your trek from Tadapani to the popular Ghandruk settlement (2010 m). Ghandruk is a beautiful settlement with nearby guest houses in Gurung.
Before you arrive at your destination, you must descend witnessing the snow-capped mountains of Annapurna I and Mt. Machhapuchhre.
In addition, you will be charmed by the vast green mustard fields and orange orchards. In this short 3-hour trek you can also sample the local oranges. The 6 km trek is a very enjoyable experience.
You will get to this beautiful village next to the Himalayas. You can explore the beautiful cultural settlement, after arrival at Ghandruk.
You will also be fascinated by the settlement's history, tradition, and lifestyle. You can see the Gurung people busy at their farms there. The traditional instruments such as Dhiki, Jato, and Theki can also be observed.
You may enjoy a traditional welcome and dance ceremony performed by the local Gurung community. You will enjoy the delicious evening meal and stay overnight at the Ghandruk homestay.
Day 08: Ghandruk to Birethanti and drive to Pokhara
From the Ghandruk viewpoint, you will observe the beautiful Himalayan sunrise. You will be charmed by the stunning sunrise overlooking the snow-capped peak. You will continue your trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul after breakfast.
In addition, the downhill path takes you through terraced farmed hills and village settlements to get to Nayapul. At Nayapul you have your lunch, and you begin our drive to Pokhara.
Until you enter Pokhara, you can experience the lively atmosphere of the Lakeside tourist hub in Pokhara. You are staying overnight at a Pokhara hotel.
End our trip.
Trip Cost US$ 585 Per person
Cost Includes:
- All your arrival and final departure from airport- Hotel- airport.
- One night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Two night in pokhara on B/B before and after the trek.
- All your standard meals like, Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, during the trek.
- Tea house Accommodations during the trek.
- Equipment like sleeping bag, Down Jacket & needed things etc if you do not have your own, to be returned after the trip.
- All ground transportation bus or car as per the itinerary.
- Well English speaking guide, friendly, experienced, with government license holder.
- A Strong Porter among the two trekkers ( one porter sharing among two member ) including all his expenses including full insurance during the trek.
- A Guide, food, Transport, Accommodation, Salary, equipments, e.t.c. All paid.
- Monastery fees.
- A trekking route map.
- Emergency helicopter rescues service. (Pay by your travel insurance company.)
- Insurance of Guide and porter.
- Conservation area fee
- TIMS (trekkers’ Information Management System.)
- First aid box with normal medicine.
Cost Excludes:
- All kinds of Drink’s like Mineral water, beer Juice, Coke, fanta, other alcoholic hard drink’s, ETC.
- Sweet things like chocolate and others.
- Your personal expenses.
- Your international airfare.
- Extra hotel night and activities in kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
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FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions
Trekking to a new place can always be nerve-wracking disregard of the number of times you might have done it. Every place has its own culture, non-verbal norms and values, government policies and so on.
Having even the basic knowledge about the place can boost your confidence and give you a positive anticipation of the experience you can gain from the place.
If you are looking forward to trek in Nepal, this article will indeed be of great use to refer to. Answered below, are some of the most frequently asked questions about trekking in Nepal.
1. Is trekking difficult?
The difficulty level of the trek entirely depends upon the trek you chose.
If you happen to be trekking for the first time, or your physical condition does not permit you to (because of age or other medical conditions) you can always look for easy treks.
Easy treks have shorter number of days, less distance to be walked in a day, and relatively lower altitudes. You do not have to have prior experience or knowledge to trek to these places.
If you are adventurer and are looking for some thrill, you have plenty of options to choose from. Difficult treks have longer number of days. You will have to walk for 5-7hrs a day on an average and these treks are mostly situated in high altitudes. These treks also demand a good level of physical fitness.
Unlike other product, trekking is not about more for better. The difficulty level has got nothing to do with the experience you can gain from a trek.
Go for what you want to and what your physical ability will allow you to. Do not push yourself too hard. Trekking is not a competition. Its relaxation.
2. Is trekking expensive?
This entirely depends upon how much you are willing to spend on your trek. You can trek luxuriously by spending lavishly or you can backpack. It all depends upon how much your bank balance allows you to.
You will get accommodation for as less as 3-4$ per night, or you can pay up to 60-1004 per night for luxury resorts. On an average, you will need not more than 10$ for a meal. If you are looking for economical places, you can eat 3 meals for 10$! But eating at such places come at a great cost of low hygiene rate.
Bottom line: Nepal is not an expensive place when it comes to tourism. It is probably one of the places you can have the most economical luxury trek comparing to what a luxury trek would otherwise cost in your country!
3. What preparations should I make before trekking?
It is always a good idea to involve yourself in doing physical exercises before trekking. Not that you have to be all athletic and muscular to trek. An average level of physical fitness will make the journey less stressful.
Ending up with sore muscles, blisters, joint pain, and back pain can be very discomforting while trekking. This is unlikely to happen if you exercise beforehand.
Start exercising at least a month before the trek. You can do cardio exercises like running, jogging, long walks, cycling and swimming. Carry a light backpack along with you to get used to it. Gym work out can be a good option too. Just don’t over-do it.
If you are going on an easy trek, you need not be very physically fit. But prior exercising is still a good option. You will only make your journey more comfortable.
4. What are the things I need to pack?
There are a long list of things you will need for trekking. The things you carry can affect the entire experience of your journey. So make sure that while purchasing any gear, make no compromisation on the quality or the brand of the equipment.
To know about the things you require, refer to the following link-
5. Do I need special permission to trek?
You will not need trekking permits in any of the treks in the Everest region, the Annapurna region and also in the Langtang region. But you will have to pay entry fees while entering a conservation area or a national park.
Trekking permits are a must for trekking in the restricted regions. The permits are available for purchase in the department of immigration located in Dillibazaar, Kathmandu. For further information, refer to-
http://www.taan.org.np/pages/trekking-permit-fees
6. Is drinking water easily available?
Availability of drinking water is not the problem. The problem is the cost of it at higher altitude. As you gain height, the price of water rises up to 2-3$ per liter.
An alternative way of getting drinking water is by having your water bottles filled in tea houses. Tea houses will provide you boiled water for about 0.4-0.7$ per liter. They are completely safe for drinking.
Therefore, do not forget to take at least two water bottles with you.
7. What kind of food is available during trekking?
Food is not of any concern while trekking. You will get all kinds of cuisines. For breakfast, tea houses will provide you with eggs cooked in your preferred style along with pan cakes, bread butter, roti, and so on.
Various other dishes like pizza, pasta, momo, chowmein and many more are also available. The most preferred dish is Dal Bhaat. It is a typical Nepali meal. Rice is served with vegetable curry, lentils, tomato chutney and meat curry. The best part- an extra helping will no cost you extra! The meal is highly nutritional. It will also keep you fueled for long walks.
8. What kind of accommodation should I expect?
Accommodation depends upon the type of trekking you are going for. There are two types of trekking
1. Tea house trekking:
You will be spending your night in tea houses. Tea houses are local lodges and hotels. They are small and comfortable enough. Most rooms are shared with two small cots that have mattress, pillows and sheets. If you need spare blankets, you can always ask for it. The rooms have attached bathroom, western flush designed and shower. You will have to pay for hot shower and electricity.
Dormitories are also available and a very low cost of about 3-4$ per night. These come with common toilets and bathrooms.
The cleanliness of the rooms may not live up to your expectations. Bring your own pillow if possible. Conjunctivitis is a common case you might fall sick of.
2. Camp treks
In this type, you will spend your nights in tented camps. Such treks mostly lie in the restricted regions. These regions do not have enough facilities to accommodate many people.
9. What are the risks associated with trekking?
Trekking is an extreme sport and does come with a lot of risks. Some unavoidable risks are avalanche, heavy rainfall, earthquake, landslide and other such natural calamities.
You might fall and injure yourself or catch some viral flue. The deadliest risk of trekking is AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness. This sickness occurs when a great altitude is gained and the body fails to adjust to the changing pressures associated with it. Anyone can fall a victim of the sickness and if not treated in time, it can be fatal.
10. How to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?
There is absolutely nothing you can do to prepare your body for altitude sickness. But yo can take few precautionary measures to avoid it. They are-
- Attain height gradually and slowly
- As you cross over 2000meters, reduce your number of walking hours and walk slow
- Drink plenty of water
- Take ample rest. Take more rest if you feel like your body is asking for it
- Eat high caloric food
- Avoid smoking or drinking
11. How to diagnose AMS?
In order to detect AMS, you need to be aware of the symptoms of them. They are-
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Upset stomach
- Feeling unsteady
- Shortness of breath
- Increased heart rate
- Difficulty sleeping
If you notice any of the symptoms, take immediate precautionary measures such as:
- Do not climb any higher for the next 48 hours
- Descend to a lower altitude if possible
- Take complete rest until you feel well
- Do not exercise
- Do not smoke
- Drink plenty of water
- Take external oxygen supply if necessary
- Take anti-sickness medicines
If you see no further improvement in your heath within the next 48 hours, you will have to be deported to Kathmandu in a helicopter. Therefore, do not forget to issue and insurance that will cover you helicopter reuse cost.
12. Do I need a guide/porter to trek?
There is no such hard and fast rule that you must have one. But it is highly advisable to travel with them. Some of the treks cannot be trekked without a guide most of them are the restricted ones.
A guide is someone who will help you with navigations. He will also have a better idea about the places to live in and eat at can negotiated prices for you. They will also help you during medical emergencies.
A porter is someone who will carry your load for you so that you can enjoy long walks.
In case you hire them, you are entirely responsible for providing them with trekking gears, food and accommodation and other medical facilities.
Guide/porter as also available these days. These are people who play the role of both a guide and a porter. Hiring them will save you from bearing an additional cost.
13. Can I trek solo?
To some places, yes. But trekking solo in the restricted area is completely forbidden. You will have to trek in a group.
A lot of people trek solo in Nepal and have thoroughly enjoyed. Trekking solo has its own benefits. You will not have to adjust your schedule according to anyone. You can also follow your own route as you wish to. Also, finding your way, especially in the non-restricted regions, is very easy. The routes are well marked and pretty straight.
Nepal is completely safe for solo trekkers. But you will also have to be a little more careful while travelling alone.
14. What is the difference between trekking independently and trekking with an agency?
Trekking independently means trekking without an agency. You can hire a guide or a porter if you want to. You may also have a trekking partner. But the entire journey depends upon the way you want to take it.
In treks organized by agencies, they will have a well-planned schedule designed for you which you will have to strictly follow. Most of the times, you will be travelling with a group. The agency will also provide you with a guide and a porter. Trekking with an agency will be a little more expensive than trekking independently or solo.
15. Which is the best season to trek in Nepal?
Every season as its own charm. However, the best seasons are spring lasting from April to May and autumn lasting from September to November.
In these two season, Nepal sees the maximum number of tourists who come to trek. These are the busiest months of the year. The weather is highly pleasant and favorable for long walks. The trails are blossoming with fresh leaves and flowers. The clear skies allow you to get a great view of the magnificent Himalayas.
16. What are the essentials that need to be included on the packing list for the trek to Poon hill?
Below are the essentials for trek to Poon Hill
Clothing
- Trekking shoes
- Sweaters
- Woolen caps
- Raincoats
- Trekking trousers
- Full sleeve shirts
- Half sleeve shirts
- Comfortable shoes
- Down jacket
First-aid
- Band-aids
- Sanitary pads/ Tampons
- Insect repellent creams
- Hand Sanitizer
- Anti-nausea tablets
- Water purification tablets
Accessories
- Camera
- Extra Batteries
- Sleeping Bags
- Moisturizer
- Solar Chargers
- Power Banks
Important documents
- Passport
- Travel permits
Conclusion
The above information covers up almost everything you need to know about trekking. If you happen to have any queries, please feel free to leave a comment below or inbox us at [email protected]
