Poon Hill Trek
A popular and relatively easy trek with incredible views of the Annapurna region
A short yet beautiful trek that should not be missed if you are visiting Nepal and short of time. Due to it's relatively easy nature, this trail has become popular among trekkers and tourists alike.
The hike takes trekker through one of the world's largest rhododendron forests and affords a close up view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan mountain range from the Poon Hill viewpoint.
The trek can be completed by those with little or no experience, but you will need to be fit enough to walk for 6 - 7 hours daily.
Please Note:
This is a teahouse trek. Teahouses are Nepalese mountain lodges that provide basic dorm-like rooms and communal eating spaces.
Summary
DURATION
9 days
LOCATION
Nepal
START & ENDS
Kathmandu, Kathmandu
DIFFICULTY
Easy Moderate Challenge Hard
Highlights
Itinerary
FOOD
No Meals
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Airport transfer
ELEVATION
Kathmandu (1,310m)
Welcome to Kathmandu, the city of temples! Our airport representative will be waiting in the arrival terminal with your name printed on a card.
From the airport we will transfer you to a city hotel, where you can unpack and freshen up from your long flight. Here we will introduce you with the tour leader and have a short meeting about the tour.
FOOD
Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Travelling in a bus 8 hours
ELEVATION GAIN
Kathmandu (1,310m) to Pokhara (820m)
We have breakfast at our hotel and catch a bus to Pokhara. The drive takes us through the towering Himalayan hillsides and past thundering rivers.
In the evening, we can visit the beautiful lakeside area if time permits.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Teahouse Lodge
ACTIVITY
Drive 1 hour, Hiking 3 - 4 hours
ELEVATION
Pokhara (820m) to Nayapul (1,070m) to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
We begin our day with a drive to Nayapul. This is the starting and ending point of the trek. The drive is scenic with beautiful views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himalayan ranges.
Our trek from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga is uphill most of the way and we pass through many small villages along the way.
Once we reach Tikhedhunga, we have the evening to rest and relax.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Teahouse Lodge
ACTIVITY
Hiking 5 - 6 hours
ELEVATION
Tikhedhunga (1,540m) to Ghorepani (2,860m)
We begin our trail by crossing Bhurundi Khola stream before ascending a steep climb to reach the top of Ulleri village.
From here we follow a gentle ascent through beautiful Rhododendron and Oak forests. We will stop in Nangethanti for lunch which is located in the middle of the forest.
One of the main attractions of our trek is Ghorepani, a beautiful village with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Teahouse Lodge
ACTIVITY
Hiking 6 - 7 hours
ELEVATION
Ghorepani (2,860m) to Poon Hill (3,210m) to Tadapani (2,590m)
We have an early start today as we climb to Poon Hill before sunrise. Witnessing the golden rays over the Himalayas is breathtaking.
Poon Hill is a stunning viewpoint where more than 300 trekkers visit every day during the main season. From here you can enjoy close views of numerous famous peaks!
Upon returning to Ghorepani village, we grab a nice warm breakfast and then start our trek to Tadapani. You'll get to experience some of the best views of the Himalayas throughout the walk.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Teahouse Lodge
ACTIVITY
Hiking 4 - 5 hours
ELEVATION
Tadapani (2,590m) to Ghandruk (1,940m)
Today we begin our journey through lush green forests and with luck we could catch a glimpse of the natural wildlife in the area. Views of the Himalayas are seen along the entire trail.
We are heading towards Ghandruk, the stone carved village, which is the biggest Gurung village in the region. In the evening we have the opportunity to visit the Ghandruk Cultural Museum and explore the local culture and traditions.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Hiking 5 - 6 hours, Drive 1 hour
ELEVATION
Ghandruk (1,940m) to Pokhara (820m)
The trail is mostly downhill and flat today. A nice way to end off our trekking journey!
We pass Syauli Bazaar and head towards Chimrong and Birenthanti.
Once we reach Nayapul we have private transport to take us back to Pokhara.
FOOD
Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Drive 8 hours
ELEVATION
Pokhara (820m) to Kathmandu (1,310m)
We follow the highway through beautiful rivers, hills and small Nepalese settlements as we make our way to Kathmandu.
From the tourist bus park you will be transferred to your hotel and have the evening to explore the town.
FOOD
Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Airport transfer (30 minutes)
ELEVATION
Kathmandu (1,310m)
We drive you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your flight time. It’s time to say goodbye until we meet again!
Dates & Prices
Below are our open group dates for the Poon Hill trek. Single supplements apply.
Please note: June, July and August are the monsoon. We don't operate treks during this period.
If the dates below don't suit, please get in touch as we can open a new group on any day as long as you have at least 2 people in your party.
What's Included
Included
Not Included
FAQ
When is the best time to complete this adventure?
How fit do I need to be?
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
What immunisations should I get?
What currency is used in Nepal?
What are meals and accommodation like?
How big are the groups?
Can I do the trek privately?
Is there a minimum age requirement?
How much should I tip the crew?
What are your cancellation terms?
Got a question?
Our expert travel consultants can help you plan the perfect adventure!
Email: [email protected]
Packing List
Clothing
- 2-3 x hiking shirt + 1-2 x long-sleeve hiking shirt
- 2 x hiking shorts and 2 x hiking trousers
- Mid-weight fleece jacket
- Hard shell rain jacket
- Warm insulating down or synthetic jacket / gilet (Down jacket available for free rental)
- Light, but warm gloves
Headwear
- Sun hat + Sunglasses
- Beanie for the nights
- Neck warmer
Footwear
- Mid-weight hiking boots / hiking trainers
- 3-4 x hiking socks
- Trainers for teahouses
Bags
- 20-25L daypack
- 80L Duffel Bag (available for free rental)
- Plastic bags to protect sleeping bag and other gear from rain
Other Essentials
- Four season sleeping bag (available for free rental)
- Hiking Poles
- Headlamp and spare batteries
- Snacks
- Water bottle / hydration bladder
- Water treatment tablets
- Camera
- Sun cream
Rental Gear
There are a number of good rental gear shops in Thamel, Kathmandu where one can rent / buy most items listed above. Sleeping bags, a down jacket and a duffel are all included as free rentals.
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend getting travel insurance for your trip. We recommend World Nomads as they provide comprehensive cover for adventurous activities and are very affordable. Get a quote below.
Accommodation
3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will stay in 3-star hotel accommodation with complimentary breakfast.
Teahouse Accommodation
The teahouse lodges on the trek are basic. Most teahouses will have shared bathroom / toilet facilities.
LOCAL TOUR OPERATOR
HIMALAYAN LEISURE INC.
Himalayan Leisure Inc. is a fantastic local Nepalese trek operator based in Kathmandu. The company is led by Upendra, an infectious character who you will love the moment you meet him. Over the past decade Upendra has built Himalayan Leisure into a premier local trek operator with a reputation for safety, quality and fun. We're confirdent you will have an amazing experience with Upendra and his team.
BOOKING TERMS
Mountain IQ is a platform for travellers to book holiday services available from tour operators, accommodation providers and other service providers available around the world. We act as an authorised agent for these Suppliers. Please read our booking and cancellation terms here.
Reviews
Simply magnificent!
We joined this trek with short notice. Upendra was very responsive and accommodating to our needs. The tour from pick up to drop off was professional and fun. Would highly recommend joining this tour!
Leave a Review
Why book with us?
Local Guides
We connect travellers with the best local guides in each destination. No agents or expensive tour operators!
Expert Advice
Our team have completed every adventure we offer. Get impartial and practical insight from real experts.
Best Prices
We only work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices.
Just wanted to thank the team at Mountain IQ for their super helpful advice. The trip we booked went smoothly and the local guides were amazing!
David
United Kingdom
It was an absolute pleasure booking through Mountain IQ - seamless every step of the journey, thanks!
Susan
Canada