Poonhill trek
- Details
Itinerary
Itinerary- Tour Includes/Excludes
- FAQ
Trip overview
The Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular short treks, known for its stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, charming villages, and lush rhododendron forests. Here’s a brief overview:
This relatively short trek, typically completed in 4 to 5 days, begins and ends in the lakeside city of Pokhara. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise view from Poon Hill, a vantage point that offers breathtaking vistas of iconic peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Trekkers are treated to a mesmerizing display of colors as the sun rises behind the snow-capped mountains.
The trek takes you through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, providing opportunities to experience the local culture and hospitality. Along the way, you’ll pass through terraced fields, dense forests filled with rhododendron and oak trees, and cross suspension bridges over rushing rivers.
Accommodations are typically in teahouses or guesthouses, where you can enjoy warm meals and a cozy place to rest after a day of trekking. This accessibility, combined with the stunning scenery, makes the Poon Hill Trek suitable for trekkers of varying levels of experience and fitness.
Overall, the Poon Hill Trek is a fantastic choice for those seeking a short but rewarding trekking adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a taste of the Himalayan beauty and local culture.
Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu and either take a scenic drive (approximately 6-8 hours) or a short domestic flight (about 30 minutes) to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city. Check into your hotel and relax.
After an early breakfast, drive to Nayapul (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). Start your trek from Nayapul and walk to Tikhedhunga. The trail takes you through terraced fields and small villages. Overnight in Tikhedhunga.
Begin the day with a steep ascent to Ulleri, a charming Magar village. Continue through dense rhododendron forests and reach Ghorepani, a popular trekking village. This is where you'll prepare for your early morning visit to Poon Hill for sunrise. Overnight in Ghorepani.
Early in the morning, hike to Poon Hill (about 45 minutes) to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then trek to Tadapani. Enjoy the lush forests and mountain views along the way. Overnight in Tadapani.
Descend through the forest to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village. Explore the village and enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. From Ghandruk, drive back to Pokhara, where you can relax by the lakeside or explore the city further.
Included
- Airport Transfers: Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation: Accommodation in tourist-standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Trekking Permits: Necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Trekking Guide: The services of a professional trekking guide who is familiar with the Poon Hill trek route.
- Porters: Porters to carry your main trekking bag, typically one porter for every two trekkers.
- Accommodation during Trek: Accommodation in teahouses or lodges along the trekking route.
- Transportation: Transportation to and from the trek starting and ending point, usually by bus or private vehicle.
- First Aid: Basic first aid supplies and assistance in case of minor injuries.
- Trekking Gear: Basic trekking gear for porters, including jackets, trousers, trekking shoes, gloves, and more.
- Trekking Map: A map of the Poon Hill trekking route.
Not Included
- International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is typically not included in the trek package.
- Travel Insurance: It's essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
- Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a Nepali tourist visa upon arrival in Nepal is not usually included.
- Additional Meals: Any meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara that are not part of the trek package are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, hot and cold drinks, internet, and souvenirs are not included.
- Optional Activities: Any optional activities or side trips beyond the standard trek itinerary are not included.
- Tipping: Tipping the trekking guide, porter, and other support staff is customary but not usually included in the package price.
- Personal Trekking Gear: You will need to bring or rent your personal trekking equipment, such as a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and clothing.
- Helicopter Evacuation: If needed, the cost of helicopter evacuation due to a severe emergency is not included and should be covered by your travel insurance.
- Any Other Expenses: Any other expenses not explicitly mentioned in the 'Included' list are typically not part of the trek package.
FAQs
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1. What is the Poon Hill Trek, and where is it located?
The Poon Hill Trek is a popular short trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, known for its stunning sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
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2. How long is the Poon Hill Trek, and how many days does it take?
The trek typically takes around 4 to 6 days, depending on your starting and ending points, trekking pace, and optional extensions.
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3. What is the best time to do the Poon Hill Trek?
The best time for the Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the views are clear.
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4. Do I need permits for the Poon Hill Trek?
Yes, trekkers require permits for the Poon Hill Trek, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
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5. Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter for the Poon Hill Trek?
It's not mandatory to hire a guide or porter, but having a local guide can enhance your experience, provide insights, and ensure a smooth journey.
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6. What is the level of physical fitness required for the Poon Hill Trek?
The trek is considered easy to moderate in terms of difficulty and is suitable for trekkers of various fitness levels.
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7. What is the accommodation like during the trek?
Accommodation consists of teahouses or lodges along the trekking route, offering basic but comfortable facilities.
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8. What kind of food is available during the trek?
Teahouses typically offer a variety of local and international dishes, including dal bhat, noodles, momo (dumplings), and more.
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9. How do I handle altitude sickness during the trek?
Poon Hill Trek has moderate altitudes, so altitude sickness is less common. However, it's important to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and be aware of any symptoms.
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10. What should I pack for the Poon Hill Trek?
Essential items include warm clothing, rain gear, a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking boots, a backpack, water purification tablets, and personal essentials. Consult a trekking gear checklist for more details.
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11. Are there emergency services available on the Poon Hill Trek?
Emergency services are available, including helicopter evacuations if needed. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers such emergencies.
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12. Is there mobile phone and internet coverage during the trek?
Mobile phone coverage may be limited in some parts, and internet access may be available at certain teahouses for an additional fee.
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13. What is the maximum elevation reached during the Poon Hill Trek?
The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill at approximately 3,210 meters (10,532 feet) above sea level.
