15 Dec 2023 Himalaya Trip
Poon Hill Trek Overview
Poon Hill is a popular viewpoint at an elevation of 3,210 m. It lies on the border of Kaski and Myagdi districts in Nepal. The viewpoint overlooks the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and is a vantage point for sunrise and sunset. Admire the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Dhampus Peak, Dhaulagiri II, and many more. Poon Hill trekking is very popular among trekkers as it is suitable for all age groups and can be done throughout the year. Poon Hill trek in winter provides a unique experience for trekkers to admire the beauty of this region coupled with picturesque vistas of panoramic mountains.
Poon Hill Trek Highlight
During the Poon Hill Trek, trekkers should traverse through beautiful settlements of Magar and Gurung ethnicities. Some of them are mentioned below:
Ulleri
Ulleri is a beautiful settlement and is the gateway to the Ghorepani village. The prime highlight of this village is that trekkers should climb 3,200 stone steps to reach Ulleri. Adore the first glimpse of Mt. Annapurna South and Hiuchuli.
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 from this viewpoint are wonderful. 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 Annapurna Base Camp trek etc.
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 entrance of the village 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.
Why Poon Hill Trek in winter?
December , January and February is winter in Nepal.
Poon Hill Trek December :
It is little bit cold but December still become very good weather last 2 years and the trekking route is so peaceful.
Poon Hill Trek January:
It is still clear weather but possible for snow.
Poon Hill Trek February:
Slowly warm up, right time for rhododendron flowers .
There are abundant benefits of the Poon Hill trek in winter. They are as follows:
- Trails are less crowded.
- Peaceful and comfortable trail.
- New experience and nature at its best.
- Clear visibility of the surroundings and warm temperature during the day.
- Less chance of getting altitude sickness as it is a low-altitude trek. The highest point during the trek is 3,210 m (Poon Hill).
- This is an off-season trek and the trip offers a 10% discount.
- Accommodations are easily available.
Poon Hill Trek Winter Map
How many days is the Poon Hill trek?
Poon Hill trek can be done for 2 to 5 days via different trek routes depending upon trekkers’ preferences. This trek can be done from Pokhara or Kathmandu. Below is the 2-5 days Poon Hill trek itinerary:
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
Can we do Poon Hill winter 2-5 days trek from Kathmandu or only from Pokhara?
Poon Hill 2-5 days trek from Kathmandu is possible if you take both ways Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu flight. The flight costs an additional USD 200 per person for both ways. The Poon Hill trek is easy from Pokhara.
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?
This trek is available every day throughout the year if the number of trekkers or people is more than 2. This trek can be done by joining a group as well as 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 Group joining has very limited dates. So, it is better to confirm and book in advance.
Poon Hill Trek Winter FAQs ?
Is this Poon Hill trek route closed with very heavy snow in winter?
No, the Poon Hill trek route is not closed with heavy snow in winter. There is a 99% chance this trek route stays open even if it is snowing heavily.
Is there a risk of avalanche area?
There is no risk of an avalanche area during the Poon Hill trek in winter as it lies only at an elevation of 3210 m.
Foods and Accommodation in winter
Food and Accommodation during the Poon Hill trek are easily available. There is less crowd during winter, thus, accommodation is easily available. But the accommodation is basic with private rooms for 2 people, normal beds, and toilets inside the lodge. The food is served from the lodges or teahouses. There are food menu options such as Nepali dishes, and continental dishes prepared in local style. Since this is mountain trekking, expect basic facilities and not a luxury.
What to Pack for Winter Poon hill trek?
It is cold during the Poon Hill winter trek so pack wisely. Warm winter clothes such as down jackets, warm trousers, thermal under and over, warm hats, gloves, socks, sunglasses, prescribed medicines, water purification kits, and personal hygiene kits. Also, crampons or spikes are recommended for this trek because there is a high chance of snow on the trail.
Do we need to bring a sleeping bag?
No, there is no need to bring sleeping bags as the lodges have plentiful sleeping bags. But if you prefer using personal only, then you can bring.
What temperature do we expect during Poon Hill trek in winter?
The day temperature is around 10-15℃ whereas the morning and night minimum temperature is around -5℃.
What kind of weather do we expect during Poon Hill trek in winter?
The weather is clear with blue sky and perfect visibility of the sunrise and sunset over the snow-capped Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Is there a Heater at the Lodge or Teahouse Poon Hill trek?
Yes, there is a heater in the dining area of lodges or teahouses during the Poon Hill trek.
Does the Poon hill trek always have snow in winter?
Most of the time there is snow during the Poon Hill trek in winter.
Can we have a hot shower?
Yes, a Hot Shower is available as soon as running water available.
Which part of the Poon Hill trek is most difficult if there is snow?
The most difficult part of the Poon Hill trek if there is snow is the Ghorepani to Tadapani trail as there are many ascend and descend. Also, the trails are slippery which makes it difficult for trekkers to trek. Therefore, we recommend packing no slippery shoes crampons, and trekking poles for easy trek.
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.
