The Poon Hill Trek is a popular short trek in the Annapurna region, offering stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. This 4-5 day trek is perfect for those with limited time but still wanting a rich trekking experience. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, charming villages, and terraced fields, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise view from Poon Hill at 3,210 meters.
$950
per person
$600
per person
$540
per person
$480
per person
The interactive map above provides a detailed overview of the Poon Hill Trek route. This responsive map is designed to help trekkers visualize the entire journey, from Nayapul to Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and back. It highlights key landmarks, tea houses, and elevation points along the trail.
The map is optimized for all devices, ensuring seamless navigation whether you're viewing it on a desktop, tablet, or mobile phone. It includes trekking-specific details such as walking distances, elevation gains, and estimated trekking times between stops.
For those planning to trek independently or offline, you can download the KML and GPX files of the route. These files are compatible with most GPS devices and trekking apps, allowing you to navigate the trail with ease.
Discover the stunning beauty of the Poon Hill Trek through a captivating photo journey. Experience towering Himalayan peaks, lush forests, and charming villages, all captured in breathtaking images. This gallery reveals the heart of one of Nepal’s most iconic treks, where adventure meets unparalleled natural beauty.
The Poon Hill Trek is a perfect introduction to trekking in Nepal, offering stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. A relatively short trek, it's ideal for beginners and those short on time, without compromising on breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences.
The Poon Hill Trek is a gem of a trek, known for its accessibility, short duration, and spectacular panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world. Here are the reasons why Poon Hill should be on your bucket list:
While the Poon Hill Trek is considered one of the easier treks in Nepal, preparation is still key to enjoying your experience. Here are some tips:
The Poon Hill Trek typically takes 4-5 days and starts from Nayapul, passing through beautiful villages and lush forests. Here’s a sample itinerary:
The Poon Hill Trek is one of the more affordable trekking options in Nepal. Here’s a rough breakdown of costs:
The best time to do the Poon Hill Trek is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the best weather, with clear skies for stunning mountain views.
A: The Poon Hill Trek is classified as an easy to moderate trek, making it ideal for beginners. Some parts, like the ascent to Ghorepani, are steep but manageable with basic fitness.
A: The best time to trek to Poon Hill is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. During these times, the weather is stable, offering clear mountain views and pleasant temperatures.
A: The Poon Hill Trek can be completed in 4-5 days, making it a shorter trek compared to others in Nepal. It is perfect for those looking for a Himalayan experience within a limited timeframe.
A: Yes, you will need two permits for the trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
A: Yes, it is relatively safe to trek Poon Hill alone as the trail is well-marked, and there are plenty of teahouses along the way. However, hiring a guide is recommended for added safety and a richer experience.
A: Poon Hill is at an elevation of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). The viewpoint offers one of the best sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
A: The Poon Hill Trek features traditional teahouse accommodations. These are basic lodges that provide a bed, meals, and an opportunity to interact with fellow trekkers. The rooms are simple, but clean, and usually include shared bathroom facilities.
A: Yes, the Poon Hill Trek is family-friendly. Its shorter duration and relatively easy trails make it accessible for families with children or older adults. However, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, especially for younger children.
A: Absolutely! Poon Hill offers one of the best panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Peaks like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri are visible, making for a breathtaking sunrise experience.
A: While the Poon Hill Trek is doable independently, hiring a guide is a good idea for first-time trekkers. Guides can enhance the experience by providing insights into the local culture, assisting with navigation, and ensuring safety, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the region.
A: Mobile network coverage is available on most parts of the Poon Hill Trek, especially in villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk. Many teahouses offer Wi-Fi services for a small fee, but the connection can be slow due to the remote location.
A: The temperature on the Poon Hill Trek varies depending on the season. In autumn and spring, daytime temperatures are comfortable, ranging between 10-15°C (50-59°F). However, nights can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 0°C (32°F) or lower at higher altitudes.
A: The food along the Poon Hill Trek is typically Nepali and Tibetan, with dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and noodle soups being common. Many teahouses also offer basic international options like pasta, pancakes, and omelets.
A: The risk of altitude sickness is minimal on the Poon Hill Trek as the highest point is only 3,210 meters. However, everyone reacts differently to altitude, so it’s important to stay hydrated, take your time, and avoid overexertion.
A: Yes, the Poon Hill Trek is possible in winter (December-February), but it can be quite cold with snow at higher altitudes. The trail may be less crowded, but trekking during this time requires extra preparation in terms of warm clothing and trekking gear.
A: The Poon Hill Trek typically starts from Nayapul, which is a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. Pokhara is accessible by road or a short flight from Kathmandu. Most trekkers spend a day or two in Pokhara before beginning the trek.
A: While teahouses along the Poon Hill Trek provide basic bedding, it’s recommended to bring a good-quality sleeping bag, especially during the colder months. You can also rent sleeping bags in Pokhara if you don’t want to bring your own.
A: On average, you should budget $20-$40 per day for the Poon Hill Trek. This includes accommodation, food, and other essentials. Costs can vary depending on whether you hire a guide or porter, and your personal preferences for meals and lodging.
A: The Poon Hill Trek is popular, especially during peak seasons like autumn and spring, so you can expect to encounter other trekkers. However, it’s less crowded compared to famous routes like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, offering a more peaceful experience overall.
A: Key items to pack include comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing for the evenings, a rain jacket, a hat, trekking poles, a refillable water bottle, a camera, and basic toiletries. Don’t forget sunscreen, as the sun can be intense at higher altitudes.