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Poon Hill Trek A Complete Guide
Introducing the ultimate guidebook from Himalaya Trip: ‘Poonhill Trek A Complete Guide.’ Get all the easy tips and inside information you need for an amazing adventure. Trekking to Poon Hill takes you through the heart of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), enlightening the rich natural and cultural tapestry of the region.
Navigating through charming Gurung and Magar settlements, the journey is a fascinating experience. Encompassing mountain panoramas, diverse flora, terraced fields, and a serene rural atmosphere, the trek offers a complete adventure. The ethereal sunrise casting its glow upon the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, coupled with the serene villages of Ghorepani and Ghandruk, form the essence of the Poon Hill trek. The captivating 4-day Poon Hill Trek will undoubtedly leave you longing for more visits.
Table of Contents
What are the attractions during the Poon Hill trek?
Poon Hill sunrise and Himalayas view
Poon Hill uncovers a captivating sunrise spectacle, casting a golden shade upon the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre. Perched at 3,210 meters, this vantage point offers an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the Himalayan realm. As the sun gradually rises, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of colors, creating an unforgettable moment of serene beauty. The grandeur of nature stands revealed as the sun’s gentle touch graces the towering mountains, making the Poon Hill sunrise a delightful experience engraved forever in memory.
Ghorepani Village
Ghorepani village, the highest point during the Poon Hill trek, is nestled in a dense Rhododendron Forest. During spring (March-May), the village is adorned with colorful Rhododendron flowers in shades of red, white, and pink.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
4 Days
Trekking
USD 299 per person
Ghandruk Village
A traditional Gurung village, Ghandruk, is surrounded by the massive Annapurna Mountains. The traditional stone houses are decorated with Buddhist prayer flags. At an elevation of 1939 meters, it’s the starting point for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and is the most densely located village on the Poon Hill trek, where travelers can immerse themselves in their culture and traditions.
Blooming Rhododendron Forest
The Rhododendron is Nepal’s national flower, celebrated for its beauty and medicinal properties. The Poon Hill trek takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, which is home to lush Rhododendron forests. These forests transform into a colorful canvas during the trek, showcasing red, pink, white, and purple blossoms.
How to get Pokhara from Kathmandu by Tourist bus/ private car/flight?
Getting to Pokhara from Kathmandu, which is approximately 200 km away, offers various options based on your preferences for speed, comfort, and budget. The road conditions can vary, affecting travel time, which typically ranges from 5 to 7 hours by road, depending on traffic. If you’re short on time and eager to start your trekking adventure, a quick flight is a great choice, taking only about 25 minutes.
Tourist Bus:
You can take a tourist bus for around USD 15, with departures typically scheduled for 7 am. The bus ride offers scenic views along the way and takes about 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is a budget-friendly option that allows you to relax and enjoy the journey.
Private Car :
Opting for a private car provides flexibility and convenience. You can choose from private cars, jeeps, or vans for USD 110 to USD 200, depending on the vehicle type. The travel time is generally around 6 hours, allowing you to stop along the way if desired. This option is ideal for those seeking a more comfortable ride with the freedom to customize their journey.
Flight:
For the quickest option, you can book a flight between 7 am and 8 pm. The flight duration is approximately 25 minutes, with ticket prices around USD 100. This is the best choice if you want to maximize your time in Pokhara and start trekking on the same day. The views from the plane are breathtaking, providing a unique perspective of the Himalayan landscape.
Note: Himalaya Trip is here to arrange the transportation option that suits you best.
Trekking route and duration (2-5 days)
When you plan a trek in the Himalayas, the route and duration are important. For a short trek of 2 days, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a great option. You will walk through beautiful rhododendron forests and see amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. On the first day, you will hike from Nayapul to Ghorepani, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. On the second day, you will wake up early to hike to Poon Hill. You will enjoy a stunning sunrise before going back down to Nayapul.
If you want a longer trek, the Langtang Valley trek takes about 5 days. This trek starts at Syabrubesi and goes through green forests and lovely villages. On the first day, you will trek to Lama Hotel, which takes around 6 to 7 hours. The next day, you will hike to Langtang village, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. On the third day, you can explore Kyanjin Gompa and take a short hike to help you adjust to the altitude. On the fourth day, you will walk back to the Lama Hotel, and on the fifth day, you will return to Syabrubesi.
Poon Hill Trek Map
How long is the Poon Hill trek?
The length of the Poon Hill trek Itinerary varies depending on the specific route you choose and your starting point. For the 2-day adventure, you will generally cover less distance. However, as the days of your itinerary increase, the distance also increases. You will cover approximately 18 to 20 kilometers for a 2-day adventure and 45 to 50 kilometers for a 5-day adventure. Here is a breakdown of the distances for each 2 to 5 days on the itinerary.
3 Days Poon Hill Trek
3 Days
Trekking
USD 260 per person
- The 2-day trek typically covers around 18-20 kilometers (11-12 miles).
- The 3-day trek generally spans about 30-35 kilometers (18-22 miles).
- The 4-day trek covers around 40-45 kilometers (25-28 miles).
- The 5-day trek can range from 45-50 kilometers (28-31 miles) or more.
Note: These distances are estimated and can vary based on the exact trails taken and the pace of the trek.
How to get to the Poon Hill trek from Kathmandu?
To get to the Poon Hill trek from Kathmandu, you will first need to travel to Pokhara. You can take a tourist bus, which leaves in the morning and takes about 6 to 7 hours. The bus ride offers beautiful views along the way. Alternatively, you can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes around 25 minutes and allows you to start your trek more quickly.
Once you arrive in Pokhara, you will need to drive to Nayapul, which is the starting point for the Poon Hill trek. You can take a private car or a local bus for this short trip, which takes about an hour. From Nayapul, you will begin your trek to Ghorepani, where you will enjoy stunning views and beautiful landscapes along the way.
How much is the Poon Hill trek package?
Poon Hill trek package costs can differ based on factors like trek duration, route, group size, transportation type, accommodation, and meals. Typically, prices begin at around USD 299 per person.
Had the best 4 day trek,
Had the best 4 days Poon Hill trek, beautiful weather and views. My guide Umesh was amazing, patient but encouraging. Had fruit for the day for me and picked me berries along the path for me to try. Was very attentive on the evenings and we played card games together as well as having solo time. The company owner was very responsive and helpful and met me to discuss details and even booked buses from ktm to Pokhara for me. Would recommend as very reasonably priced and positive experience! Thank you both 🙂
The Poon Hill trek was excellent
The Poon Hill trek was excellent and the guide is patient and thoughtful. His warmed-hearted smile is one of beautiful view at our journey. Since attended this journey from your company we created many memorable memories. Hoping to have opportunity to revisit Nepal and attend another trekking trip in the future.
5 Days Ghorapani Poon Hill Trekking
I have booked the trip in last min and managed to have a private tour guide for 5 days Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The price was competitive and it is personalised to my time and preference.
As a beginner with no prior trek training, it was not possible to make it without the help of my tour guide – Surpa. He is caring and supportive along the 5 days trek.
I managed to view the beautiful Annapurna range from Poon Hill and it is definitely a once in a lifetime experience for me.
Thank you for all the arrangement and accommodations. Would definitely recommend Surpa and Himalayan Trip to all!!!
Highly Recommend! Professional and Reliable Trekking Company
As travelers from Taiwan, we were deeply impressed by the high level of service provided by this company.
Our guide’s expertise made the challenging Poon Hill trek feel smooth and manageable. He was very attentive to our needs and pace. The porters were also amazing—efficient, kind, and always there to help. Their hard work made our journey much more comfortable.
Everything was well-organized, and the hospitality was top-notch. We are so glad we chose them for our Nepal adventure. Definitely a 5-star experience!
Amazing and unforgettable 4D3N Poon Hill Trek
I finished 4-day-3-night Poon Hill Trek with my aunt who is an experienced hiker. While I am the beginner, both of us received good guidance and company from our guide, Sandeep and porter, Mani. We were always companied by one of them, safety being ensured all the time.
The trek was overall not too challenging but could be tough for those without hiking experience hiking for consecutive four days. Over the 4 days, we stayed in 3 nice hotels with fabulous views. Though it was sometimes cloudy after rains, we still managed to see the snow mountains from our rooms. And when we reached Poon Hill, the view was breath-taking and absolutely worth it!
Good trekking company
Good trekking company. Reliable, on time, respond quickly. We had an excellent time with our guide Milan and porter Bisal during Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek. Both were very friendly and helpful . We played many games together after each day of hiking.
4D3N Poon Hill Trek- Cherish for a lifetime
A big shout out to our guide Ramess and our porter Ram for taking care of us and
ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the 4D3N Poon Hill Trek. All kind words of
Ramess touched us and Ram earned our respect by carrying our backpacks and making us
feel comfortable. The scenery, the experience itself, and everything was amazing. An
unforgettable experience to cherish for a lifetime. Definitely will come back shortly for
an even more challenging route. Highly recommended. Thank you, team and Nepal.
Professional. Friendly. Comfortable.
This is the second time using Himalaya Trip and Harka’s guys after our ABC Trek. This time we went to Poon Hill with my son and it was amazing. As usual, the team was professional, friendly, and comfortable. Recommended again and again.
Thank you again for organizing
Hello Harka!
Thank you again for organizing the Pokhara Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, it has been an amazing experience and Jay has been a great guide!
I’ll definitely recommend you and your team to any of my friends who might be interested in a trek in Nepal!
Amazing time but struggled Walking
Hello Harka, We had an amazing time but struggled a lot to walk uphill. Hari was very patient with us. Bless him. Overall a great experience. we will do another one with friends but will make sure we are more fit ?
Thank you
such an amazing experience
Thanks to you and your team for giving us the opportunity to have such an amazing experience! It was really the best!!
Andrea and I will be more than happy to share our experience and we will recommend your company to every friends that will come to visit Nepal
Once again, thanks for everything
Best, ciao ciao
Alice & Andrea
Trishuli rafting, Chitwan Jungle safari package and Ghorepani Poonhill Ghandruk Trek
We book three activities with Himalaya Trip and the experience was amazing. Harka, the team leader was very friendly. He takes care of us at every moment and we feel very confortable. The same happened with the guides we meet in each activity, they were very nice. I highly reccomend to do a trek in Nepal, we didn’t have lot of days, so we choose the Poon Hill Trek. It was very good, the wheather was so clear that the last day we saw the sunrise in Poon Hill, the view of the Annapurnas was fascinating. Through the route you visit many villages, but the last one, Ghandruk, was the best end point we could had. Hope one day we could repeat and do the Annapurna Circuit…
Most amazing Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
I had the most amazing Ghorepani – Poon Hill trek with my family visiting from India
organized by Himalaya Trip . The experience
was many times better than anticipated. Harka had extensively briefed us on the
preparation needed in advance as well as the route, both over email and in person at the
hotel, which made us comfortable. Our guide Surpa was super fantastic and took care of
it all (literally every step of the way). I would go back and highly recommend it.
Pokhara to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
We received excellent communication, organization accommodation, and trekking
expertise. Had a wonderful experience as we were looked after excellently throughout
this phenomenal Pokhara to Ghorepani (Poon Hill) trek. Hope to revisit Nepal with their
help in the future. Thank you for the experience. I would highly recommend the
Himalaya Trip.
Perfect arrangement and super nice team (literally everyone)!
We went on a 4D3N trek to Poon Hill in a group of 3 from 28 December 2022 to 31
December 2022. Team Leader Harka communicated with us and in detail explained the
tour and the itinerary. For a briefing, we met our guide, Jay. It was easy for us as we met
before the trek.
Our guide Jay and our porter were super caring and helpful. Perfect arrangement of
accommodation and care and support at every step. We all were moved by Jay’s gesture
and impressed with his attention to detail and passion. Our porter had done much more
than what he was supposed to do and super grateful to him too.
The amazing stunning views and freshly cooked tasty foods with choice options made
our winter trek warmer. To sum up, we highly recommend this company for their perfect
arrangement thanks again for everything!
Poon Hill Trek Experience
Cannot recommend this company enough. They tweaked the itinerary for us and helped organize it as we were very tight on time. Had a wonderful time, I’ve got the bug for Nepal so will book with Himalaya Trip again!
Outstanding Poon Hill Trek!
Very impressed and delighted with the Himalaya Trip’s team interaction, especially with
Hari and Milin. The trip was carefully planned in detail throughout our Poon Hill Trek.
Had an incredible time during our Poon Hill Trek.
Amazing experience on the Poon Hill Trek
I could not recommend this group more highly! Trek Organizer Harka was exceptionally
responsive and helpful. To make us feel comfortable, Harka was willing to go the extra
mile and was always prepared. Not only him, but our guide and porter, Hari, and Milin,
were also amazing, friendly, informative, and very hospitable. If you're considering a trek
through Nepal, I highly suggest booking through Himalaya Trip!
Poon Hill trek 4D3N
Very pleased with Harka and the team’s great service throughout our Poon Hill Trek 4D3N. All our arrangements from airport transfer, and hotel transfer, to the overall trip, and return flight were smooth. Harka was very responsive in our online communication via emails and WhatsApp. Harka made quick arrangements when our first flight to Pokhara was canceled due to bad weather. With our guide Om, a jeep arrangement to Ulleri was made to catch up with our itinerary schedule. So amazed with their alternative quick arrangements. Also, the accommodations provided are better than expected with private showers in our room.They are trustworthy, sincere, and responsible. I highly recommend the Himalaya trip.
Fantastic time doing the Poon Hill Trek
Thank you, Harka for the wonderful arrangement of the trek. Our guide Surpa was very
attentive and Romesh was also a great porter. They took care of us and the trip was
smoothly carried following the itinerary. From food to accommodation to a private
bathroom and private shower in 2 of 3 places, we were well taken care of. 5 stars for a
well-organized Poon Hill Trek.
UK, Apr 11, 2023
4 Days Poonhill Trek was fantastic
Hi Harka, My 4 Days Poonhill Trek was fantastic during the four days. I have had the most amazing time thanks to Surpa.
I have met many guides in different countries but none like him. He was very caring, professional, and overall helped me a lot in many ways. Thanks to him I will remember the trekking trip and Nepal in a very positive manner.
If I ever do come back to Nepal, which I hope I do in the near future, I would definitely like to make trip arrangements with you and have Surpa as my guide.
Thank you once again for arranging my trip, it was the highlight of the vacation. I’d also like to thank you for pairing Surpa to be my guide. He was indeed a very very great and sweet guide.
Take care and I hope to talk with you in the near future.
Korea, 2023
Fantastically done by Himalaya Trip’s
All arrangements were fantastically done by Himalaya Trip’s owner Harka for this 4-day Poon Hill trek. Our professional guide Surpa took great care of us as well in handling all issues properly. Also, highly appreciated our porter Sandeep in porting our heavy bags. It’s an awesome experience as well as the right choice to book with Himalaya Trip. Can’t wait to visit Nepal again����.
Taiwan, October 2023
Namaste Harka and Porters Sandeep and Umesh,
Namaste Harka and Porters Sandeep and Umesh,
Thanks so much for all of you – playing the swing, sharing your stories with us – being nice, funny and helpful. I’m so glad with have you guys in Poonhill Trek. Being a guide or porters is not easy, I respect you guys so much.
I wish all the best to you and your family stay Healthy and stay strong
Jacky from Hongkong
Hongkong, 2023
Great Time at Poon Hill trek
We had a great time at Poon Hill Trek with experienced and professional guides. The
right choice is to let Harka, owner of Himalaya Trip arrange this incredible 4 days Poon
Hill trek for us. Highly suggested.
Macau, November 2023
Happy and Unforgettable Poon Hill Trek
Our 4-day Poon Hill trekking was very wonderful and unforgettable. Throughout the trek, the weather was favorable. Happy to witness a beautiful sunrise, stunning landscapes, and Snow Mountains. Had a great time with our guide Harka, and porters Umesh and Sandeep. Got some unique insights from them and had interesting conversations. Our first Nepal trekking journey was much more enjoyable and joyful. All thanks to Harka and the team for taking care of us throughout the journey.
Hongkong, Nov 12, 2023
Thank you for the arrangement of Trek
We like all of you so much too!!! Thank you for the arrangement of 4 Days Poonhill Trek and the help from you, Umesh and Sandeep throughout our entire journey?? hope one day we can meet all of you again.
Hongkong, 2023
Superb experience with everything
My 4 days and 3 nights Poon Hill solo trek in Nov 2023 with the Himalaya Trip was a superb experience. Fortunate to get connected with them via Google search. Harka is the owner of this professional trekking company. He arranged everything according to my needs. I find him very friendly and he even offered to drive me to the airport with his scooter. A perfect service including all meals and accommodation throughout the whole trip within my tight budget. Also, my guide Jay is patient, caring, easygoing, professional, and the best guide I could have. I had a super fun trekking trip with Jay cracking jokes and talking. Overall, I will recommend the Himalaya trip if you plan trekking in Nepal and as well as Jay as your guide. You will be well looked after and safe and get to enjoy the most with your trip. I will of course choose the Himalaya trip to organize my trip again when I come back for another trekking trip.
Ps the views are just amazing and as well as all Nepalese. And I don’t normally write reviews but they deserve all the compliments.
China, November 2023
4 Days Poon Hill Trek
Yes, yes !! We had a great time in 4 Days Poon Hill Trek, and Surpa’s work was remarkable. Quiet, not push or rush, give us our time, information if needed, and help in every issue about trek and beyond. Definitely recommended !
Thanks ?
Argentina, 18th Oct 2024
Grateful for every small things in Poon Hill Trek
I couldn’t ask for a better trek. Harka- the owner arranged everything so well including accommodation and transportation in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. During the trek, I was well looked after by our guide Jay. He is a super caring and detailed guide as he checked everything such as hot shower, foods and room conditions etc in every lodge. Also he can go through the details like your shoelaces, trekking pole to make sure everything is fine to keep me safe. Also, our porter Membar is friendly too and served us well. He was carrying our heavyweights backpack without saying a words while at the same time he still took the initiative to help us to take photos. Lastly, the driver from Kathmandu to Pokhara is great too. We can arrived Pokhara fast and safely. This trip is far beyond my imagination, will definitely come back in the future.
Hong Kong, 2024
Solo Poon Hill trek with Guide
My solo Poon Hill trek was superb. Thank you, Harka for prompt and clearcommunication. My guide Surpa made sure everything was good. I find him veryfriendly and helpful. We got along great – and as I was traveling solo, I felt very special.I have already recommended Himalaya Trip to friends!
2-Day Poon Hill Trek – USD 229 per person:
- Ulleri-Ghorepani-climb Poon Hill-Ulleri-Pokhara (drive)
3-Day Poon Hill Trek – USD 259 per person:
- Syauli Bazar-Tadapani-Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Hile-drive to Pokhara
4-Day Poon Hill Trek – USD 299 per person:
- Nayapul-Ulleri-Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Tadapani-Ghandruk village-Nayapul
5-Day Poon Hill Trek – USD 349 per person:
- Nayapul-Ulleri-Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Tadapani-Jhinu (Natural Hot Spring)-Motkyu- Pokhara return
Preparation and fitness
The Poon Hill trek is relatively short and manageable, yet adequate preparation and fitness are essential. Expect to hike approximately 6-7 hours daily, ascending 400-500 meters in elevation daily. Cardio exercises make you better at trekking for a long time, and endurance training makes your muscles stronger. While generally easy, the initial stretch to Ghorepani involves steep stairs. As you acclimate, trekking becomes more comfortable. Start exercises a month before travel.
Packing List for the Poon Hill Trek
- Sturdy Hiking shoes
- Trousers
- Socks
- Warm jacket
- T-shirts (two or three) and a long-sleeved shirt
- Sunscreen (SPF 20+)
- Backpack around 35 liters
- Torch (flashlight)
- Camera, memory card, and battery charger (spare batteries)
- Toilet Paper
- Quick-drying towel
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Thermal underwear
- Sunglasses
- Water Bottle and a purification kit/tablets
- Prescribed Medicines
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Poon Hill trek offers an unforgettable experience for both beginner and seasoned trekkers. With its stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, vibrant rhododendron forests, and the chance to experience local culture, this trek is truly special. The well-marked trails and welcoming tea houses make it accessible and enjoyable.
Whether you choose to complete the trek in 2 or more days, the breathtaking sunrises from Poon Hill and the friendly interactions with local communities will create lasting memories. Prepare for an adventure filled with natural beauty and rich cultural experiences as you embark on the Poon Hill trek.
