Poon Hill Trek is a popular 3 day hiking route in the Annapurna region, known for its stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. This trek also offers a chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle.
Starting and ending in Nayapul, a small town about 1.5 hours' drive from Pokhara, the route takes trekkers through lush forests, charming villages, and terraced farmlands. The trek's highest point, Poon Hill, sits at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), with the average elevation ranging between 2,500 and 3,000 meters (8,200-9,800 feet), making it accessible for most, including beginners.
Proper acclimatization and precautions against altitude sickness are important, even though it's a relatively easy trek. Staying hydrated, taking rest breaks, and ascending slowly are recommended for a safe experience.
While the trek usually takes 4 to 5 days, a 3 day package is available for those with limited time. This shorter itinerary still provides panoramic mountain views, a breathtaking sunrise at Poon Hill, and opportunities to explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages while interacting with friendly locals.
- From the vantage point of Poon Hill, at 3,210 meters, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the Himalayas. This includes three of the world’s highest peaks: Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters, Manaslu at 8,163 meters, and Annapurna I at 8,091 meters.
- Along the trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill, you'll pass through beautiful villages such as Birethanti, Hille, Tikhedhunga, and Ulleri. The route is adorned with picturesque waterfalls, rivers, rice terraces, and rhododendron forests.
- The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek in the Annapurna region can be easily completed in two nights and three days, starting from Pokhara. Additionally, there is an option to take a round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Ideal Seasons for Trekking to Annapurna Poon Hill
3 day Annapurna Poon Hill Trek can be undertaken year-round, but certain months are particularly ideal for trekking in Annapurna:
Spring (Pre-Monsoon): Spanning February to May, this season offers stable and dry weather with a moderate climate. The temperatures are comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold making it an excellent time for trekking. The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the mountains and landscapes.
Autumn (Post-Monsoon): Another prime season for trekking, autumn includes the months of September through December. During this period, temperatures are pleasant, and the weather is generally clear, offering spectacular mountain views. This season is ideal for trekking in Annapurna lower section, allowing for a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Itinerary and Cost of Poon Hill Trek of Annapurna.
Annapurna Poon Hill Trek begins and finishes in Nayapul, guiding you through the scenic Magar and Gurung communities, lush forests, charming villages, and serene rivers. The trek begins with a gradual ascent through a valley with terraced fields, leading into a dense rhododendron forest.
As the trail steepens, you’ll reach Ulleri by the end of the first day, climbing 3,200 stone steps to an altitude of 2,070 meters (6,791 feet). The trek continues through dense forests, passing Banthanti and Nangethanti, before arriving at Ghorepani, which sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) and offers stunning mountain views.
The trek costs $299 and includes transportation between Pokhara and Nayapul, three daily meals with diverse cuisine options, clean lodge accommodations with attached bathrooms, microspikes for winter trekking, an experienced English-speaking guide, and one porter for every 2-3 participants. All necessary permits, taxes, and paperwork are covered, and a certificate of appreciation is provided upon completion.