Annapurna Sunrise Trek, also famously known as Poon Hill Trek, is a comparatively easy walk winding through villages and rhododendron forests. This invigorating trek reveals some of the best views of the Himalayas especially from the Poon Hill which is considered the best viewpoint in the Annapurna region – and perhaps one of the most beautiful viewpoints on earth. Reaching a maximum altitude of 3210m, anyone with a normal level of fitness would easily undertake this trek comfortably. Let’s test our stamina at the Ulleri Hill with more than 3,000 stone steps, one of world’s largest numbers of stone steps on a hill of this kind. Just imagine the splendor of the sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayas that we will witness during this trek, illuminating the peaks of the entire range and leaving us spellbound!
While trekking along to Ulleri and Ghorepani, we marvel at colorful orchids and clear views of the splendid high mountains including the two eight-thousanders – Mt. Annapurna (8091 m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m). Reaching the final destination of Poon Hill (3210m) is a reward in itself, perhaps one of the most beautiful viewpoints on earth. Then trek to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk and enjoy the ethnic hospitality along with the cultural magnificence of Gurung Museum there. Trekking through the Rhododendron Forest that blooms with red flowers during the springtime.
Our visit to Nepal won’t be complete without a visit to Chitwan, where we will visit the National Park. Hence, Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition includes a package tour to Chitwan. The name “Chitwan” means “Heart of the jungle” and is home to over 70 species of animals including some of the world’s endangered species such as Royal Bengal Tiger, Great one horned Rhinoceros, Gaur, Gharial crocodile and over 450 species of birds.
But there is more than the wildlife. Chitwan is also famous for a pilgrimage to Devghat at the confluence of Kali, Seti and Trisuli River where hermits have been coming meditate for centuries. Many people think that Devghat is a holy place to end their life. Whether we walk deep into the jungle, journey by jeep to the distant hills, float down the river in a dugout canoe or walk to discover the mysterious culture of different ethnic groups we’ll have an incredible experience.
Detail Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu(1337m)
Day 03: Kathmandu-Pokhara (827m) by bus 6-7 hours
Day 04: Pokhara – Tikhedhunga (1540 m) 3-4 hours
Day 05: Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani (2860m) 5-6 hours
Day 06: Ghorepani – Poon Hill (3210m) -Tadapani (2630m) 5-6 hours
Day 07: Tadapani – Ghandruk (1940m) 2-3 hours
Day 08: Ghandruk – Pokhara (827m) 3-4 hours
Day 09: Pokhara Sightseeing (827m)
Day 10: Pokhara to Chitwan (350m) 4-5 hours
Day 11: Chitwan: 2 Nights 3 days Package tour (815m)
Day 12: Chitwan to Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 13: Shopping /Rest in Kathmandu Sightseeing in Bhaktapur 3-4 hours
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu(1337m)
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 company’s 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: Sightseeing in Kathmandu(1337m)
A local guide will be available. According to your wishes, the guide will escort you for sightseeing. Sightseeing may include the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupati, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square, and the Swoyambhunath areas. Starting after breakfast, usually at 9.00am, the exploration of Kathmandu Valley can continue until 4.00pm. Lunch and dinner, you will be responsible for.
Day 03: Kathmandu-Pokhara (827m) by bus 6-7 hours
The journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara 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. Pokhara is paradise of tourist and also the capital city of Gandaki province of Nepal. Each evening, the HV Treks guide provides a briefing about the next day’s trek.
Day 04: Pokhara – Tikhedhunga (1540 m) 3-4 hours
We set off early in the morning by vehicle 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 path to the big village called Birethati. In Birethati there is check point where our permits are checked. The path runs through the rice fields slowly up to the few houses of Tikhedhungha. This is gravel road so we may see jeep and other vehicle playing on this road.
Day 05: Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani (2860m) 5-6 hours
Today after the 400m uphill climb over the well-known stairs, Ulleri begins. The steps are uneven and that makes us quite tiring. The path winds up through several steps. Above Ulleri there is thin habitation of people. Hence, it is quiet and calm. We can see very few people working in cultivation. Often there are ancient tattered huts as shelters. We walk through oak and rhododendron forest, growing along the river that leaps down in waterfalls. Especially in the spring, it is a fairy tale with the beautiful flower’s wealth of rhododendrons. Ghorepani literally means “horse water”. It lies atop a pass and traditionally the horses which are the caravans to Mustang are drenched here. Overnight at lodge in Ghorepani.
Day 06: Ghorepani – Poon Hill (3210m) -Tadapani (2630m) 5-6 hours
Today we have to wake up before the dawn to watch the sunrise. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition trekking guide will lead us to the viewpoint. It takes about 45 minutes to climb the hill. Before the breakfast, we can enjoy the most beautiful views of the central Himalayas from Poon Hill. We back to Ghorepani and after breakfast, we slowly climb heading to Tadapani. The sunlight keeps on changing the color of snowy peaks dark grey to light grey. We can see the last foothills of the Dhaulagiri-chain including Churen Himal, the right of the dark deep crevice of the Kali Gandaki valley, the peaks of Annapurna, the Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Macchapucchare (the “fishtail mountain”) and then further to the right the peaks of Manaslu. After we enjoy the breathtaking views, we descend to the lodge for breakfast. At a gentle pace, we go down through an incredible rainforest with many rhododendrons. After having been a few hours in nature we find a few lodges in the wasteland. This is Tadapani (“far away from water”).
Day 07: Tadapani – Ghandruk (1940m) 2-3 hours
Today we walk flat in the beginning then the path goes gradually downhill through the jungle. We cross a stream called Ghatte Khola through a small wooden bridge. Ghatte Khola means the stream with the traditional stone mill which is operated by the force of water. After the stream, the path still goes downhill to Ghandruk. On the way, there are many viewpoints for the mountains Hiuchuli, Annapurna and Machhapuchchhre. Finally, we reach to Ghandruk, a big and beautiful Gurung village in the mountain region. We stay here for the night. Ghandruk is the village with the headquarter of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and a Museum regarding the Gurung Culture. A small hydroelectricity power station also lies here. Telephone, mobile and internet service is available here. The Ghandruk village itself is view point from where we can see stunning view of Annapurna range and western face of Machhapuchhre.
Day 08: Ghandruk – Pokhara (827m) 3-4 hours
Today our vehicle journey starts from Ghandruk to Pokhara is a scenic drive descending from the hilltop village through winding mountain roads. As the vehicle navigates narrow paths lined with terraced fields and dense forests, we are treated to stunning views of the Annapurna Mountain range. The road gradually descends towards the lush valley where Pokhara lies, transitioning from rugged hills to more urban surroundings, making the trip both picturesque and refreshing.
Day 09: Pokhara Sightseeing (827m)
Time to relax in Pokhara. The ambiance is pleasant, the weather mild. In Lakeside, we can enjoy boating, cafes, shops, and the restaurants along the Lake with their tasty international cuisines. For the more energetic, we can visit the famous Peace Stupa, the International Mountain Museum, Mahendra cave, David falls etc.
Day 10: Pokhara to Chitwan (350m) 4-5 hours
Today we drive to Chitwan by tourist bus or private vehicle. The distance is 150 km from Pokhara and road is winding. So, we drive slowly enjoying the views around us. The road goes through the terraced fields and small cities of Gagan Gauda, Dule Gauda, Damauli, Dumre and Abu Khaireni on the way. In some sections of the road, we can enjoy the greenery of jungles and rivers since we drive along the Marsyangdi River and Narayani River. Marsyangdi Hydro Power Station lies on the way. From Muglin, where Marsyangdi and Trisuli River meet, we cross a big bridge and turn to the south for Chitwan along the Narayani River. We stay in a lodge in Chitwan amidst the jungle and bank of Rapti River.
Chitwan tour will be a kind of package tour
Day 11: Chitwan: 2 Nights 3 days Package tour (815m)
Chitwan is best known for its culture and wildlife activities. Chitwan means “heart of the jungle”, because of its dense forests and wild animals. Chitwan national park is located in the central south of Nepal, just 165 km far from Kathmandu and 150 km from Pokhara, which offers us many jungles as well as cultural activities. Such as Elephant back safari, canoeing trip, jungle walk, visit ethnic local people house, culture dance performs by local tribal people, visit sunset point and so on. The people who have at least 2 nights and 3 days’ time to visit Chitwan national park, we can have quiet relax and luxuries program, which will allow us to know about Chitwan national park, jungle activities, and local people, their daily life.
Day 12: Chitwan to Kathmandu (1337m)
Today we drive to Kathmandu by vehicle. The distance is just 165 km but the road is winding. So, we drive slowly through the jungle along the Narayani River in the beginning. Then from Muglin, we drive along the Trisuli River through the jungle, terraced fields and small cities on the way. At the place called Kuringhat, we witness Nepal’s cable car service: Manakamana Cable Car. The cable cars fly above the Trisuli River, several green hills and villages to the famous Manakamana Goddess Temple of Gorkha District. The term “Manakamana” means the “Wish of our Spirit”. The pilgrims to Manakamana Goddess Temple believe that the Goddess will make their wish fulfilled. We sometimes see the rafters in the Trisuli River through the window of the bus.
Day 13: Shopping /Rest in Kathmandu Sightseeing in Bhaktapur 3-4 hours
This day is free too. If you wish, a sightseeing trip to the ancient temple/king’s seat of the world heritage site of incredible Bhaktapur can be arranged. The tour lasts 4 hours and will cost an additional upcharge. In the evening, a Farewell Dinner is given by HV Treks.
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu(1337m)
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. HV Treks’ staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye. It will be not only goodbye but also the welcome for next visit to Nepal.
Minimum number of participants: 2
Maximum number of participants: 20
Max Altitude: 3193 meters
Best Season: Oct-Dec And Mar-May
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.
Basic 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
