Poon Hill hike in Nepal’s Annapurna region is a popular short trek offering stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210m) with panoramic vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri. The trail passes through Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Tadapani, showcasing warm hospitality and traditional culture. Trekking through vibrant rhododendron forests, especially in spring, adds to the charm. Accessible from Pokhara, the 3–4-day trek is beginner-friendly, with moderate elevation and manageable daily walks, making it ideal for families and first-time trekkers.
Brief Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 02: Kathmandu-Pokhara (827m) by bus 6-7 hours
Day 03: Pokhara – Tikhedhunga (1540 m) 4-5 hours
Day 04: Tikhedhunga-Ghorepani (2860m) 5-6 hours
Day 05: Ghorepani (Poon Hill) – Ghandruk (1940m)6-7 hours
Day 06: Ghandruk – Kathmandu (1337m) 9-10 hours
Day 07: Departure from Kathmandu: Today, we check the list of all necessary
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern while traveling with Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Make sure that the trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found necessary due to unfavorable circumstances that may occur during the trek. However, the effort will be made to keep to the above-planned itinerary. Unfavorable weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can force to bring the changes in the itinerary. The leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly according to the plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Important Also:
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy, or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and insure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, renowned for its historical monuments, sacred Hindu temples, and serene Buddhist monasteries. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our friendly company representatives will be there to greet you. They will hold a display board with your name and “Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition” clearly written on it. After a warm welcome, you will be escorted to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind. The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure, with dinner on your own to explore the city’s diverse culinary delights.
Day 02: Kathmandu-Pokhara (827m) by bus 6-7 hours
The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes 6-7 hours by bus or just 35 minutes by flight. The road climbs over a mountain ridge with stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and Annapurna on clear days, then descends along the Trishuli River, where rafting groups are often seen. After a lunch stop, we reach Pokhara, Nepal’s most beautiful city, by afternoon. Each evening, the HV Treks guide provides a briefing about the next day’s trek.
Day 03: Pokhara – Tikhedhunga (1540 m) 4-5 hours
Today we set off early in the morning by bus or a taxi to go to the starting point of the trek. The road winds sometimes hairpins up to a point where the villages called Naudanda, Khare and Lumle lie. Breathtaking view of Annapurna range can be seen clearly. The driving takes about an hour. After that, we have descended steps to walk to the new bridge over the Modi Khola. Then begins our fast walk. First, we follow the rough road to the big village called Birethati. The rough road runs through the rice fields slowly up to the few houses of Tikhedhungha. We may go to near by river and take bath in Tikhedhungha.
Day 04: Tikhedhunga-Ghorepani (2860m) 5-6 hours
The trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani is a scenic and rewarding journey that forms part of the popular Annapurna region trekking routes in Nepal. The trail begins with a steep ascent from Tikhedhunga, including the famous stone staircase of over 3,000 steps leading to Ulleri, a large Magar village at around 2,070 meters. As you climb higher, the landscape transitions from terraced fields to lush rhododendron and oak forests. The path offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Annapurna South and Hiunchuli along the way. The trail passes through charming villages such as Banthanti and Nangge Thanti before reaching Ghorepani at about 2,850 meters. Ghorepani, known for its panoramic mountain views and access to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint, provides a peaceful resting point and a rich cultural experience amidst the beauty of the Himalayas.
Day 05: Ghorepani -Poon Hill (3210m) – Ghandruk (1940m)6-7 hours
The trek from Ghorepani (Poon Hill) to Ghandruk is a scenic journey through the heart of the Annapurna region. It begins with an early morning hike to Poon Hill for stunning sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, the trail continues through vibrant rhododendron forests and villages like Deurali, Banthanti, and Tadapani. From there, it descends steeply through lush woodlands to the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk. Known for its rich culture, stone houses, and breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare, Ghandruk offers a peaceful and picturesque conclusion to this leg of the trek.
Day 06: Ghandruk – Kathmandu (1337m) by vehicle 9-10 hours
Today the journey from Ghandruk to Kathmandu by vehicle offers a picturesque descent from the Himalayan foothills to Nepal’s lively capital. It begins with a vehicle ride from Ghandruk to Nayapul, traveling along a rough, narrow mountain road lined with terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages. From Nayapul, the route joins the Pokhara–Baglung Highway and continues to Pokhara. After a short rest in Pokhara, the trip resumes by vehicle toward Kathmandu, following the winding Prithvi Highway through scenic hills, river valleys, and small towns. This overland journey offers a final, vivid glimpse of Nepal’s diverse landscapes and rural life.
Day 07: Departure from Kathmandu:
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye.
Max Altitude: 3210 meters
Best Season: Sep – Nov and Mar–April
Difficulty Level: Easy
December, January, and February
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So, hiking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in the Himalayas. Though it gets colder in a night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively fewer trekkers on the trail. Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So, a tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see a splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange a family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikes and cultural tour. It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Temal homestay, Temal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit.
March, April, and May
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze are felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of a cloud can be seen in the sky during this season. So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of an expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal. So many tourists from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period. Peak climbing period can be in length up to June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programs during this period. This period offers plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.
June, July, and August
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slightly difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang, Upper Dolpa, Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
September, October, and November
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our treks. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes. This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favorable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal. Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period. So many tourists come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m is the best destination for climbing in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of the nature of Nepal in this season.
Equipment & Packing List
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items
