Poon Hill Trek

Overview Departures Itinerary Inclusion Exclusion Gallery

Trip Overview

The Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal's most popular and accessible short treks, offering an incredible Himalayan experience in just a few days. This classic Annapurna region trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and finally to the iconic Poon Hill viewpoint, where you are rewarded with one of the most spectacular sunrise panoramas in the world.

The trek begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, following the Modi Khola River through terraced farmlands and traditional villages. The trail ascends through dense rhododendron and oak forests, passing through charming settlements like Tikhedhunga and Ulleri before reaching Ghorepani village. From Ghorepani, an early morning hike leads to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, where a spectacular sunrise illuminates the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, creating an unforgettable memory.

The Poon Hill Trek is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families, beginners, and experienced trekkers alike. It offers breathtaking mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to walk through some of the most beautiful rhododendron forests in the world.

Best Seasons to Travel

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons for the Poon Hill Trek, offering stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. During spring, the rhododendron forests burst into vibrant red, pink, and white blooms, creating a spectacular landscape. Autumn offers crisp, clear skies and stunning mountain vistas.

Notes to Travelers

This trek is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for trekkers of all fitness levels. The trail reaches a maximum altitude of 3,210 meters at Poon Hill, making it accessible for beginners and families with children.

Accommodation throughout the trek is in comfortable teahouses with basic facilities. Rooms are typically twin-sharing with communal bathrooms. Hot showers and electricity are available for a small fee at most lodges.

The trek involves some steep stone staircases, particularly the climb from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri (approximately 3,000 steps). Trekking poles are highly recommended to ease the strain on your knees.

Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so packing layers is essential. Early morning starts for sunrise at Poon Hill require warm clothing as temperatures can be cold.

The Poon Hill Trek can be completed in 3-5 days, making it perfect for those with limited time who still want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.

Highlights

Spectacular Sunrise View - Witness one of the world's most beautiful sunrises from Poon Hill (3,210m)
Panoramic Mountain Views - See Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhare (6,993m), and more than 30 other Himalayan peaks
Rhododendron Forests - Trek through some of the world's largest rhododendron forests, spectacular in spring bloom
Gurung and Magar Culture - Experience authentic village life in traditional Gurung and Magar communities
Suspension Bridges - Cross thrilling suspension bridges over the Modi Khola and other rivers
Ulleri Stone Steps - Conquer the famous 3,000 stone steps, a memorable challenge of the trek
Ghorepani Village - Stay in the charming village of Ghorepani, surrounded by mountain views
Short and Accessible - Perfect for those with limited time who want a genuine Himalayan experience
Diverse Landscapes - From terraced farmlands and lush forests to alpine meadows and mountain viewpoints

Fixed Departure Dates

Early booking recommended due to limited seats.

September 16, 2026

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December 30, 2026

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January 12, 2027

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May 31, 2027

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Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu (1,350m)
- Highlights: Arrival in the capital city of Nepal, welcome by our representative, first glimpse of the Himalayan atmosphere
- Activity: Transfer to hotel, rest and recovery from your flight
Day 2 : Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (800m)
- Highlights: Scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, views of Trishuli River, first glimpses of the Annapurna range, arrival in the beautiful lake city of Pokhara
- Activity: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approximately 6-7 hours), hotel check-in, explore Lakeside area, visit Phewa Lake
Day 3 : Drive Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
- Highlights: Short scenic drive to the trailhead, crossing suspension bridges, views of Machhapuchhare, traditional villages, Modi Khola river views
- Activity: Drive to Nayapul (approximately 1 hour), commence trekking along the Modi Khola River, pass through Birethanti village, arrive at Tikhedhunga
Day 4 : Trek Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m) via Ulleri (1,960m)
- Highlights: ULLERI STONE STEPS - famous 3,000 stone staircase, dense rhododendron forests, panoramic views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, traditional Magar and Gurung villages
- Activity: Trek from Tikhedhunga, ascend the famous stone steps to Ulleri, continue through rhododendron forests via Nangethanti and Banthanti, arrive at Ghorepani village
Day 5 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for Sunrise and Trek Back to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
- Highlights: POON HILL SUNRISE - spectacular panoramic view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhare, and more than 30 peaks, sunrise painting the Himalayas in golden hues, final descent through forests and villages
- Activity: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (approximately 45 minutes - 1 hour), witness the sunrise and take photos, return to Ghorepani for breakfast, trek back to Nayapul (approximately 5-6 hours), drive to Pokhara, hotel transfer, celebration and rest
Day 6 : Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
- Highlights: Scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, views of the Trisuli River, return to the capital, farewell dinner celebration
- Activity: Drive back to Kathmandu, hotel transfer, free time for shopping, farewell dinner with Himalayan Karma Treks
Day 7 : End of the Program / Fly to Your Destination
- Activity: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, farewell

Cost Inclusion

Airport transfers on arrival and departure in a private vehicle
3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan (twin-sharing basis)
1 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara on BB plan (twin-sharing basis)
Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by tourist bus
Pokhara to Nayapul and Nayapul to Pokhara transportation by private vehicle
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing basis)
Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
One experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) to carry your main luggage
Insurance, salary, meals, and accommodation for guide and porters
Medical kit (basic first aid)
All government taxes and official expenses
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with Himalayan Karma Treks
Complimentary duffel bag from Himalayan Karma Treks for storing and carrying your trekking gear

Cost Exclusion

International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
Travel and medical insurance (mandatory, covering emergency evacuation)
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, battery charging, hot showers, etc.
Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, bottled water, and snacks
Extra meals and accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara beyond the itinerary
Extra porter services (if required beyond the standard 1:2 ratio)
Tips for guide, porters, and drivers (recommended but at your discretion)
Any additional costs due to flight cancellations, weather delays, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Emergency evacuation and medical treatment costs