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Poon Hill Trek in Winter Season
Poon Hill Trek in winter is not common despite being in the off-season. Often trekkers remain far from the off-season, like winter and monsoon, to explore stunning places of Nepal; however, the Poon Hill trek is an exception. It is one of those treks that can be enjoyed in any season, and it becomes even more beautiful during the winter season. However, trekkers will still face some of the challenges of the winter season, like high altitude, freezing temperatures, snowy paths, blocked trails, etc.
Winter trekking in Poon Hill can be tough. During the day, temperatures are around 10°C; at night, they drop to 2°C or lower. Although it’s cold, there is little rain, which means dry trails and clear views of the Himalayas. Winter is quiet and great for solo trekkers since you will meet very few people on the trails. Because of the freezing weather, wearing proper winter gear is important to stay warm and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. So let’s take a look at some of the benefits of trekking Poon Hill Trek in Winter.
Table of Contents
Why Poon Hill Trek in winter?
The Poon Hill trek, a popular and relatively accessible Himalayan adventure, offers a unique and rewarding experience during the winter months. While many opt for the more temperate spring and autumn seasons, a winter trek to Poon Hill unveils a serene and breathtakingly beautiful side of the Annapurna region. Here’s why you should consider experiencing this trek in winter:
3 Days Poon Hill Trek
3 Days
Trekking
USD 260 per person
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
4 Days
Trekking
USD 299 per person
Unparalleled Clear Mountain Views:
Winter’s crisp, dry air provides exceptional visibility, allowing for stunning, unobstructed panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The lack of haze and dust common in other seasons means you’ll witness the snow-capped peaks in their full, majestic glory. The deep blue skies contrasting with the pristine white mountains create a truly unforgettable visual spectacle.
Tranquil and Less Crowded Trails:
Winter is considered the off-season for trekking in Nepal, resulting in significantly fewer trekkers on the trails. This allows for a more peaceful and intimate experience with nature. You can enjoy the serenity of the Himalayas, immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the landscape, and have more personal interactions with the local communities.
Winter Wonderland
The winter season transforms the Poon Hill region into a magical winter wonderland. The terrain is covered by snow that passes through trails and forests. Just like in the Spring season, the views are wonderful but entirely different, as if someone has laid out a white carpet. The snow-covered rhododendron forests are one of the most special highlights that trekkers simply can’t leave without taking pictures.
Amazing Photographs Opportunities
The clear skies and snow-covered landscapes of winter provide exceptional photographic opportunities. The blue sky mixing with white mountains creates an exceptional view of the Annapurna region as a whole. These stunning visuals are perfect for capturing memorable moments and sharing them with friends and family. Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply capturing memories on your phone, winter offers a wealth of breathtaking subjects.
Unique Adventure Experience
Trekking Poon Hill in winter is an adventure in its own way. There are many challenges in trekking in winter compared to Spring, making it a unique adventure experience. Navigating the snowy path with constant snow and freezing temperatures is tough, especially when you reach an altitude of 3000m. Although for Poon Hill, the possibility of altitude sickness is very minimal, some other challenges might make it difficult, but in the end, it is extremely rewarding.
Poon Hill Trek Highlight
The Poon Hill trek is one of the most beautiful trekking destinations of Nepal. Even if it is among the shortest trek in Nepal compared to a long trek like Annapurna Circuit Trek, it has to offer several major highlights for trekkers to explore. The main highlight is the amazing sunrise views from Poon Hill, where the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains shine in the morning light. The trek passes through lovely villages of the Gurung and Magar people, allowing you to see traditional Nepali life. You will walk through colorful rhododendron forests that look especially bright in the spring.
Ulleri
Ulleri is a key starting point on the Poon Hill trek, known particularly for its challenging but memorable ascent. The village itself marks the beginning of a steep climb, often involving thousands of stone steps, which provides a real sense of accomplishment for trekkers. Beyond the physical challenge, Ulleri offers a taste of traditional Nepali village life and beautiful surrounding landscapes, effectively setting the stage for the stunning Himalayan views that await higher up the trail. So it is a very important part of the overall Poon Hill experience.
Ghorepani Village
The Pun Magar settlement village of Ghorepani is settled in the surroundings of Rhododendron forest. The colorful blossoming rhododendron flowers in red, pink, and white shades can be seen during the end of winter season. This village is the starting point for the Poon Hill viewpoint. Many trekkers spend overnight. The warm hospitality of the locals is the prime highlight of this village.
Poon Hill Viewpoint
Poon Hill viewpoint is the vantage point that is famous for sunrise over the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges. The mountain views and the beautiful Pokhara Valley are wonderful from this viewpoint. It is at an elevation of 3,210 m and is one of the shortest trek destinations that treats trekkers with fantastic mountain views and scenery.
Tadapani
Tadapani is an attractive village in the Annapurna region. The Ghorepani to Tadapani village trail connects several popular trekking tracks, such as the Khopra Ridge trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Ghandruk Village
Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village in the vicinity of the Annapurna Mountains. This village is at an elevation of 1,939 m. It is the most densely located village on the Poon Hill trek. This Gurung settlement village is rich in its culture and hospitality. Here are the traditional stone houses decorated with Buddhist prayer flags.
Jhinu (Hot Spring)
Jhinu village is located right next to the Modi River, which originates from the Annapurna Mountains. There is a small pond at the village entrance where natural hot water emerges from below. Jhinu Natural Hot Spring is the best relaxation treatment to enjoy after Poon Hill trekking.
Poon Hill Trek Winter Video
How is winter in Nepal?
Generally, winter in Nepal lasts for 3 months from December to February. The temperature varies as the altitude rises. In the lower regions, the day temperature is between 15-20℃ and in the night the temperature is between 5-12℃. As the altitude rises in the higher regions, the day temperature is between 10-15℃ and the morning and night temperature falls below 0℃ to -5℃. In the regions with an elevation above 4,000 m, the temperature can fall to -15℃ to -20℃. Winter is the coldest time of the year in Nepal especially in higher regions. Numerous high pass treks are closed as there are heavy snowfalls in the Himalayas. It makes difficult for trekkers to trek as well and there is less availability of accommodations.
Winter is the off-season for trekking in Nepal but also the best season for trekking in the lower altitude regions as the weather is clear and the day temperature is stable. Also, this season is best for those who want to trek peacefully. There is also an exclusive discount offer during winter for trekkers. Most importantly, the winter season trek offers trekkers a unique experience of appreciating nature and greenery. A plentiful time to enjoy the peaceful trail, and adore the beauty of nature at its best.
Poon Hill Trek Winter Map
How many days is the Poon Hill trek?
The Poon Hill trek is 32 miles (51 km) long and usually takes 5 to 6 days to complete. It reaches a highest point of 3210 m, making it a moderate trek. This walk suits families, with easy trails that do not require much equipment or skill. Each day, you will walk about 4 to 6 hours until you reach a teahouse. The trekking trails are so beautiful that trekkers enjoy walking even the stone stairs and feel only a bit tired when they rest in the evening.
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
The Poon Hill trek duration ranges from a few days to extended days as trekkers can add it to the more popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This popular trekking route passes through diverse landscapes like terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and stunning Annapurna ranges mountain views. Even during the winter season, the accommodation and teahouses are still in operation, so whatever the trek duration you choose, you will be comfortable and enjoy the overall trek.
Below is the 2-5 days Poon Hill trek itinerary:
2-Day Poon Hill Trek @ USD 229 per person:
Day 1 Pokhara to Ulleri to Ghorepani to Poon Hill and return back to Ghorepani
2 Days Poon Hill Trek or 1 night 2 days Poon Hill Trek is the shortest itinerary for Poon Hill Trek. This itinerary will be perfect if you have a very short time but want to see the sunrise and Himalayas from Poon Hill. You will drive 65 km or 3 hours from Pokhara to Ulleri 1960m; if you fly from Kathmandu, you will meet your guide at Pokhara airport drive to Ulleri, and trek to Ghorepani. Next morning, you will climb to Poon Hill 3210m for the best sunrise and Himalayas view and trek down to Ulleri, drive back to Pokhara, or fly to Kathmandu.
| Day | Destination | Altitude | Distance KM | Distance hours |
| 1. | Kathmandu or Pokhara – Ulleri – Ghorepani | 2860m | 65 km drive, 8km walk | 3 hrs drive, 5-6 hrs walk |
| 2. | Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ulleri – Pokhara or Kathmandu | 830m | 11km walk, 65 km drive | 5-6 hrs walk, 3 hrs drive |
3-Day Poon Hill Trek @ USD 259 per person:
The 3 Days Poon Hill Trek, also known as the 2 nights 3 days trek, offers a unique way to experience the Poon Hill area. You will begin by driving from Pokhara to Syauli Bazar. If you start from Kathmandu, you can take a morning flight to Pokhara and then drive to Syauli Bazar. The trek includes stops at Ghandruk, Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill before you trek down to Ulleri. From Ulleri, you can drive back to Pokhara or fly back to Kathmandu. This trek follows an anti-clockwise loop around Poon Hill.
| Day | Destination | Altitude | Distance | Distance hour |
| 1. | Kathmandu – Pokhara – Syauli Bazar – Ghandruk – Tadapani | 2630m | 50 km drive,8.8 km walk | 2 hours drive,6 hours walk |
| 2. | Tadapani – Ghorepani | 2860m | 8.4 km | 5-6 hours walk |
| 3. | Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Ulleri – Pokhara or Kathmandu | 830m | 11km walk, 65 km drive, | 5-6 hours walk, 3 hours drive |
4-Day Poon Hill Trek @ USD 299 per person:
The 4 Days Poon Hill Trek, also known as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, is a popular trip starting from Pokhara or Kathmandu. This trek lasts for 4 days and 3 nights. It begins at your hotel in Pokhara or you can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Then, you will drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and either Tadapani or Ghandruk for the last night. Finally, you will trek down to Syauli Bazar and drive or fly back to Pokhara or Kathmandu.
| Day | Destination | Altitude | Distance (km) | Distance (Hrs) |
| 1. | Kathmandu or Pokhara – Nayapul – Ulleri | 1960m | 42km drive, 11km walk | 1 and half hour drive, 5-6 hours walk |
| 2. | Ulleri – Ghorepani | 2860m | 11km walk | 5-6 hours walk |
| 3. | Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani – Ghandruk | 1940m | 18 km walk | 8-9 hours walk |
| 4. | Ghandruk – Syauli Bazar – Pokhara or Kathmandu | 830m | 5.5km walk,50km drive | 2 hours walk,2 hours drive |
5-Day Poon Hill Trek @ USD 349 per person:
The 5-day Poon Hill trek offers a condensed yet rewarding experience in Nepal’s Annapurna region. Starting with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the trek ascends through Ulleri to Ghorepani, culminating in an early morning hike to Poon Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The journey then descends to Tadapani, followed by a trek to Jhinu Danda, where trekkers can relax in natural hot springs. The trek continues through Motkyu, before returning to Pokhara, blending stunning mountain vistas with cultural immersion and natural relaxation.
| Day | Location (Route) | Altitude (meters) | Distance (km) | Distance (Hrs) |
| 1 | Nayapul to Ulleri | 1,960 | 10 | 4-5 |
| 2 | Ulleri to Ghorepani | 2,860 | 8 | 4-5 |
| 3 | Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani | 2,630 (Tadapani) 3,210 (Poon Hill) | 12 | 6-8 |
| 4 | Tadapani to Jhinu Danda (Hot Springs) | 1,780 | 10 | 5-6 |
| 5 | Jhinu Danda to Motkyu to Pokhara (Drive) | 820 (Motkyu) | 8 (Trek) + Drive | 3-4 (Trek) + Drive |
Can we do Poon Hill winter 2-5 days trek from Kathmandu or only from Pokhara?
The Poon Hill trek is primarily accessed and most efficiently done starting from Pokhara, though the journey often begins with travel from Kathmandu. Here’s a breakdown:
Starting Point Logistics:
While your overall Nepal trip might begin in Kathmandu, the actual trekking for Poon Hill starts in or near Pokhara. This is because Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region, where Poon Hill is located. Therefore, you’ll first need to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which can be done by:
- A scenic but longer bus ride.
- A much quicker domestic flight.
Once in Pokhara, a shorter drive will take you to the trailhead (usually Nayapul), where the trek itself begins. So, technically, the trek itself is done from Pokhara.
Trek Duration and Accessibility:
The 2-5 day duration refers to the time spent on the trekking trails around Poon Hill. This timeframe doesn’t typically include the travel time between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Organizing a trek directly from Kathmandu would add significant travel time, making it less efficient. Therefore, most trekking agencies and itineraries focus on starting the Poon Hill trek from Pokhara. It is very common for people to fly into kathmandu, then take a connecting flight to Pokhara, and then begin the trek. This is the most efficient way to do the trek if your arrival point is Kathmandu.
Poon Hill trek in Christmas / New Year 2025 / Chinese New Year
Poon Hill trek in Christmas/New Year 2025 / Chinese New Year is possible. It is indeed a new experience for trekkers to celebrate this occasion in the vicinity of nature and greenery, admiring the sunset, sunrise, snow-capped peaks, enjoying local foods, and basic accommodation. There is also an exclusive offer during Christmas and New Year 2025.
When is Poon Hill trek available?
If the number of trekkers or people exceeds, this trek is available every day throughout the year. It can be done by joining a group with only one person.
I. If there is one person in the group:
You can do this trek with a guide, and a public bus is a mode of transportation.
II. Group joining:
Normally, we have a small group private trek, and the dates for joining the group are very limited. So, it is better to confirm and book in advance.
Booking process Of Poon Hill Trek
The booking process is easy for the Poon Hill Trek in winter. You should provide us with a copy of the passport photo via email or WhatsApp and a 20% deposit in advance.
Conclusion
Trekking Poon Hill in winter offers a uniquely serene and visually stunning experience. While the colder temperatures demand thorough preparation, the rewards are immense. The crisp, clear air provides unparalleled views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, often enhanced by fresh snowfall. Since the trails are quiet in winter, the trekkers looking for peaceful and private time will enjoy the Poon Hill trek in the winter season.
Winter trekking has some challenges, like high altitude weather, freezing temperatures, slippery terrains, etc. Trekkers can see stunning Himalayan scenery with the right gear and an open mind for winter weather. This creates lasting memories. The combination of fluffy white snow and bright winter light makes this a special time to visit.
