Poon Hill Hike
The Poon Hill Hike is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, offering a perfect combination of Himalayan sunrise views, charming Gurung and Magar villages, rhododendron forests, and […]
Highlights
- Enjoy one of the most popular short treks in the Annapurna region.
- Witness a spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill.
- Trek through traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
- Walk along scenic forest trails and terraced farmlands.
- Experience close-up views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
- Stay overnight in a charming mountain teahouse.
- Suitable for beginners, families, and moderate hikers.
- Perfect for travelers with limited time in Nepal.
- Capture stunning Himalayan landscape photographs.
- Combine culture, nature, and adventure in just two days.
Overview
The Poon Hill Hike is one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, offering a perfect combination of Himalayan sunrise views, charming Gurung and Magar villages, rhododendron forests, and comfortable trekking within a short time. Located in the Annapurna region, Poon Hill is famous for its panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and other surrounding peaks. This trek is ideal for travelers who want a rewarding mountain experience without committing to a long expedition.
The journey usually begins from Pokhara with a drive to Nayapul or Birethanti, followed by a scenic trek through villages such as Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Ghorepani. The highlight of the trip is the early morning hike to Poon Hill, where trekkers can witness one of the most beautiful sunrise views in Nepal. This 1 night 2 day itinerary is suitable for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a short but memorable Himalayan adventure.
Poon Hill
Poon Hill is the most famous viewpoint in the Annapurna region and one of the best places in Nepal to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas. Located at an elevation of about 3,210 meters, it offers a wide panoramic view of snow-covered peaks and rolling hills. On clear mornings, the mountain range appears in layers of gold and pink, creating a truly unforgettable scene. The viewpoint is especially popular among photographers, nature lovers, and trekkers seeking a short but rewarding Himalayan experience.
Ghorepani
Ghorepani is a beautiful mountain village and the main overnight stop on the Poon Hill trek. Surrounded by forests and mountain ridges, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and comfortable teahouse accommodation. The village is known for its friendly local hospitality, traditional lodges, and easy access to the early morning Poon Hill hike. During spring, the area becomes especially colorful with blooming rhododendrons along the trail.
What to Expect
- A short but rewarding trek with moderate uphill and downhill sections.
- Comfortable teahouse accommodation in Ghorepani.
- Early morning hike to Poon Hill before sunrise.
- Beautiful mountain views throughout the journey.
- Scenic drives to and from the trekking starting point.
- Local cultural encounters in traditional hill villages.
- Fresh mountain air, peaceful forests, and quiet trails.
- Flexible pacing depending on fitness level and itinerary.
- A memorable Himalayan experience in a compact timeframe.
- One of the best short trekking options in Nepal.
Trip Itinerary
Drive from Pokhara to Banthanti and Trek to Ghorepani
Start the journey with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Birethanti, the usual starting point of the trek. From here, begin trekking through terraced fields, riverside trails, and traditional villages. The route passes through Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, where the long stone staircase climb offers a good warm-up and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Continue trekking through rhododendron and oak forests, enjoying fresh mountain air and peaceful landscapes along the way. As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks and quiet mountain settlements. After several hours of walking, arrive at Ghorepani, a charming mountain village surrounded by forested ridges and Himalayan scenery. Spend the night at a local teahouse and relax before the early morning hike to Poon Hill.
Hike to poon hill and back to Pokhara
Wake up before sunrise and hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region. The short uphill walk is rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, as the first light touches Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and other peaks. The panoramic mountain view from the top is one of the most unforgettable highlights of the trek.
After enjoying the sunrise and taking photographs, return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then begin the descent through the same scenic trail or an alternative route depending on the itinerary. Trek down to Nayapul or another pickup point, where a vehicle will transfer you back to Pokhara. The second day offers a pleasant downhill walk, village scenery, and a final chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Annapurna foothills.
Not Satisfied with This Itinerary?
Every traveler is different. Customize this trip with the help of our local travel specialists and create an itinerary that perfectly matches your interests, schedule, and budget.
What's included
- Airport Transfers: International airport pick-up and drop-off service in Kathmandu.
- Ground Transportation: Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu. Private vehicle transfer from Pokhara to the trek starting point (Ulleri or Nayapul) and from Ghandruk back to Pokhara.
- Trekking Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and all required permit arrangements.
- Trekking Equipment: Sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag (available on request and must be returned after the trek).
- Souvenir: Complimentary Create Himalaya Adventure T-shirt.
- Meals: Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trekking period.
- Accommodation: Twin-sharing teahouse accommodation with shared bathroom facilities during the trek.
- Professional Trekking Guide: Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide with all salary, meals, accommodation, transportation, and allowance included.
- Guide Insurance: Comprehensive insurance coverage for the trekking guide.
- Trekking Map: Complimentary Annapurna Region trekking map (one per group).
- First Aid Kit: Basic medical kit carried by the trekking guide.
- Government Taxes & Fees: Tourist service charges, VAT, government taxes, and all official administrative expenses.
What's not included
- International Travel Expenses: International airfare, Nepal entry visa fees, and personal travel insurance.
- Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner before and after the trek unless otherwise specified.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Hotel accommodation before and after the trek, or additional nights due to early arrival, delayed departure, or any unforeseen circumstances.
- Personal Expenses: Soft drinks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, snacks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, laundry services, and personal shopping.
- Porter Service: Porter service is not included. A porter can be hired for USD 30 per day (one porter for every two trekkers) through our add-on option.
- Personal Trekking Gear: Personal clothing, hiking equipment, and other items not listed in the "What's Included" section.
- Additional Expenses: Costs arising from itinerary changes, bad weather, road blockages, natural disasters, illness, or any circumstances beyond our control.
- Tips & Gratuities: Tips for your guide and porter are not included and are greatly appreciated at the end of the trek.
No hidden fees ā¢ Best price guarantee
