Picture yourself waking up in a quaint Himalayan teahouse, the morning chill invigorating your senses. As you sip your tea, anticipation builds for the day ahead. The Poon Hill Trek is a captivating journey that weaves through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming Gurung villages. Every step brings you closer to one of the most iconic viewpoints in Nepal—Poon Hill. At 3,210 meters, this vantage point reveals the awe-inspiring panorama of snow-clad giants like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare, drenched in golden hues at sunrise. The trek is perfect for beginners, offering both physical challenge and cultural immersion in Nepal’s rural heartland.
Difference Between Poon Hill Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
- Poon Hill Trek:
- Shorter (5–9 days) and less physically demanding.
- Focuses on panoramic sunrise views and cultural exploration.
- Suitable for beginners and families.
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
- Longer (7–12 days) and more challenging.
- Leads to the base camp of Annapurna I at 4,130m.
- Offers close-up views of Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks.
Major Highlights:
- Witnessing the magical sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill.
- Exploring vibrant Gurung villages like Ghandruk and Ulleri.
- Walking through dense rhododendron forests, especially vibrant during spring.
- Enjoying the warm hospitality of locals in traditional teahouses.
- Relatively low altitude, reducing risks of altitude sickness.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
- Activity: Meet and greet at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to your hotel. Attend a briefing about the trek.
- Altitude: 1,400m.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6–7 hours)
- Activity: Scenic drive through valleys and rivers to the lakeside city of Pokhara. Spend the evening exploring Phewa Lake.
- Altitude: 820m.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 3: Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (4–5 hours)
- Activity: We will Begin trekking from Nayapul. We would drive up to Nayapul from Pokhara. Passing through lush landscapes and small villages. Overnight at Tikhedhunga.
- Altitude: 1,540m.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Tikhedhunga.
Day 4: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (6–7 hours)
- Activity: Climb the steep Ulleri steps (3,000+ steps!) and walk through rhododendron forests to reach Ghorepani.
- Altitude: 2,860m.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Ghorepani.
Day 5: Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani (6–7 hours)
- Activity: Hike early to Poon Hill for sunrise views. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek to Tadapani through forested trails.
- Altitude: 2,630m.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Tadapani.
Day 6: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (4–5 hours)
- Activity: Descend through forests to the picturesque Gurung village of Ghandruk, known for its traditional houses and cultural museum.
- Altitude: 1,940m.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Ghandruk.
Day 7: Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara (4–5 hours)
- Activity: A gentle downhill trek back to Nayapul, followed by a drive to Pokhara. Enjoy leisure time in the city.
- Altitude: 820m.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara.
Day 8: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (6–7 hours)
- Activity: Return to Kathmandu, reflecting on the trek. Spend the evening exploring the city.
- Altitude: 1,400m.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 9: Departure from Kathmandu
- Activity: Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Best Time for the Poon Hill Trek:
The Poon Hill Trek can be undertaken year-round, but the best experiences are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
- Spring: A popular season with moderate temperatures, stable weather, and vibrant blooming rhododendron forests. Trekkers can enjoy sunny days and stunning Himalayan views.
- Autumn: Offers clear skies, average temperatures, and breathtaking mountain vistas, making it another ideal season for the trek.
While the trek is also possible in winter (December-February), cold temperatures and heavy snowfall may pose challenges. Monsoon (June-August) is the least recommended due to unstable weather and potential trail obstacles.
For the best experience, choose spring or autumn, but the trek remains feasible based on your schedule and preferences.
Inclusion & Service Details:
Included
Not Included
Important Notes:
- Comfortable trekking boots and layered clothing.
- A sleeping bag suitable for mild temperatures.
- Reusable water bottles and purification tablets.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- First-aid kit and personal medications.
Things to Carry:
- Trekking boots and socks.
- Warm clothing (jackets, thermals, gloves).
- Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C).
- Water bottles and purification tablets.
- Snacks and energy bars.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Trekking poles.
- First aid kit and personal medications.
- Rain gear and backpack.
Accommodations Note:
- Basic teahouses provide comfortable beds and simple meals.
- Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at additional costs in some locations.
Poon Hill Trek Overview with Trip Like Local:
Food and Accommodation
During the trek, we arrange comfortable teahouses offering delicious and hygienic meals. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at your stay, with a variety of local and western dishes, including dal bhat, noodles, momos, pasta, and more. Drinks like ginger tea, milk tea, and black tea are also available.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-Fi, and Water
- Electricity & Wi-Fi: Teahouses along the route provide Wi-Fi and electricity for an additional cost. However, Wi-Fi in higher altitudes may be unreliable.
- Safe Drinking Water: Safe drinking water is available at teahouses. It’s recommended to carry water purification tablets, as tap water should only be consumed after purification. Bottled or filtered water is also available for purchase.
Trek Difficulty
The Poon Hill Trek is beginner-friendly and suitable for trekkers with average fitness. You’ll hike 5-6 hours daily, making it manageable with good health and determination.
Guides and Porters
Trip Like Local provides experienced, English-speaking guides and hardworking porters. Guides will lead the way, share insights about local culture, and ensure your safety. Porters will carry your heavy bags (Maximum 18 KG) , making your trek enjoyable and hassle-free.
Permits and Insurance
- Permits: You’ll need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and a TIMS card for the trek.
- Insurance: Travel insurance is essential to cover unexpected incidents like injuries, altitude sickness, or emergency rescues.
Private or Group Treks
- Private Trek: Customize your trek to suit your preferences, schedule, and goals for a more personalized experience.
- Group Trek: Join a group to share the adventure with fellow trekkers, make new friends, and enjoy a collaborative trekking experience.
Money and Laundry Services
- ATM and Currency: ATMs and money exchange services are limited along the route. Carry enough Nepalese Rupees for expenses, as exchange services are mostly available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Laundry: Laundry facilities are basic and often limited to handwashing. Carry extra clothes to manage the trek comfortably.
FAQs:
1. How difficult is the Poon Hill Trek?
Moderate and suitable for first-time trekkers.
2. What is the highest point of the trek?
Poon Hill at 3,210m.
3. Is prior trekking experience required?
No, but basic fitness is recommended.
4. Is it safe for the trekkers to do the Poon Hill Trek?
Yes, trekking the Poon Hill Trek with a reputable and licensed travel agency who is our nepal partner ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience. We provide experienced guides who are well-versed in the trail, weather conditions, and potential challenges, making your journey smooth and memorable.
