Poon Hill Sunrise Trekking (4N/5D)

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m/4,429 ft.)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport(TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by one of our airport representatives who will assist you in transferring to your designated Hotel. Once you have settled in, your tour leader will provide you with important information and details about the upcoming Poon Hill trek.

What to see in Kathmandu:

Kathmandu is home to several must-visit sites. The Pashupatinath Temple, a revered Hindu temple on the Bagmati River’s banks, is a spiritual hub known for its evening aarti. The Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world’s largest, offers a peaceful ambiance and vibrant prayer flags. The Swayambhunath, or Monkey Temple, provides stunning views of the city and is rich in Buddhist symbolism. Lastly, Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the city’s ancient architecture, temples, and the living goddess Kumari’s residence.

Day 2: Drive to Pokhara (850 m/2,788 ft.)

After an early start in Sorakhutte, Nayabazar, located just a short walk from Thamel(Tourist Hub in Kathmandu), we will embark on a scenic journey by tourist-standard Bus. The drive will take us through lush forests, picturesque streams, and traditional villages. With two brief stops along the way, we will reach the picturesque city of Pokhara after 7 hours of travel. We will spend the night in a lakeside hotel, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty of this paradise.

What to see in Pokhara?

Pokhara is a beautiful city known for its natural attractions. Visit Phewa Lake for boating with stunning views of the Annapurna mountains. The World Peace Pagoda offers a peaceful spot with panoramic views. Explore Davis Falls, a unique underground waterfall, and Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred cave nearby. Don’t miss the International Mountain Museum to learn about the Himalayas. Sarangkot is perfect for sunrise views and paragliding over the city.

⇒ Breakfast is included in the package 

Day 3: Drive to Nayapul, then trek to Thikhedunga (1,560 m/5,118 ft)

The first day of the Poon Hill trek itinerary involves a drive from Kathmandu to Nayapul(1,075m), which is the starting point of the trek. From Nayapul, you will begin your trek to Thikhedunga, which is a small village located at an altitude of 1,560 meters (5,118 ft). The trek will take you through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The distance of the trek is around 14 km, and it will take around 4-5 hours to reach Thikhedunga. It is the first overnight stop on the itinerary.

What to see in Thikhedunga?

In Thikhedunga and Hille during the Poon Hill trek, you’ll encounter charming Gurung villages, where you can experience local culture. The trail features beautiful waterfalls and lush terraced fields. Crossing hanging bridges adds adventure to the journey. Enjoy the stunning views of green rolling hills that surround these serene villages, making the trek a memorable experience.

⇒ Your Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included in the package

Day 4: Trek to Ghorepani (2,820 m/9,251 ft.)

On the second day of the Poon Hill trek itinerary, you will begin your trek from Thikhedunga to Ghorepani, which is a small village located at an altitude of 2,820 meters (9,251 ft.). The trek will take you through beautiful Rhododendron forests, passing by traditional villages and terraced fields. Along the way, you will also have a chance to see the beautiful Annapurna mountain range. The distance of the trek is around 14 km, and it will take around 5-6 hours to reach Ghorepani. Ghorepani is a popular stopover for trekkers, as it offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot to watch the sunset.

What to see around Ghorepani?

Around Ghorepani, immerse yourself in the Poon Magar village, where you can visit the Poon Museum to learn about local heritage. Hike up to Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m) for breathtaking sunrise views over the majestic Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South, and Nilgiri peaks. Engage with the friendly locals, who offer warm hospitality, and enjoy the stunning mountain vistas all around.

⇒ Your breakfast, lunch & dinner included in the package

Day 5: Trek to Tadapani (2,660 m/8,727 ft.) after dawn at Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,531 ft.)

On the third day of the Poon Hill trek itinerary, you will start early in the morning to hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,531 ft) to catch the beautiful sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range. After enjoying the sunrise, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue the trek to Tadapani (2,660 m/8,727 ft). The trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani is relatively steep and passes through beautiful forests of Rhododendron and oak. The distance of the trek is around 12 km, and it will take around 5-6 hours to reach Tadapani. Tadapani is a small village located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. This is the overnight stop for the day.

What to see around Tadapani?

Around Tadapani, you’ll walk through beautiful rhododendron forests that burst with color in spring. The views are stunning, especially of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiuchuli, and Annapurna South. You can also see temples and enjoy the peaceful sight of green valleys surrounded by other towering mountains, making Tadapani a picturesque and serene stop on your trek.

⇒ Your breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included in the package

Day 6: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,850 m/6,069 ft.)

On the fourth day of the 5 days Affordable Poon Hill trek itinerary, you will begin your trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk, which is a traditional Gurung village located at an altitude of 1,850 meters (6,069 ft). The trek will take you through beautiful Rhododendron forests, passing by traditional villages and terraced fields. Along the way, you will also have a chance to see the beautiful Annapurna mountain range. The distance of the trek is around 12 km, and it will take around 3-4 hours to reach Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a popular stopover for trekkers, as it offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot to explore the traditional Gurung culture.

What to see around Ghandruk Village?

Around Ghandruk, explore one of Nepal’s largest Gurung villages. Visit the Gurung Museum to learn about local culture, and see the Buddhist monastery for a peaceful experience. Enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South and Fishtail (Machhapuchhre). Watch a beautiful sunset, stroll through scenic terrace fields, and meet friendly Gurung people. The fresh atmosphere and river views add to the charm of this vibrant village.

⇒ Your Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included in the package

Day 7: Trek to Nayapul (1,075 m/3,526 ft.) and Drive to Pokhara.

On the last day of the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Ghandruk trek itinerary, you will begin your trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul, which is the endpoint of the trek and is located at an altitude of 1,075 meters (3,526 ft). The trek will take you through beautiful terraced fields and traditional villages. The distance of the trek is around 14 km, and it will take around 4-5 hours to reach Nayapul. After reaching Nayapul, you will take a drive to Pokhara, which is a beautiful city located in the western region of Nepal. The drive will take around 2-3 hours, and it will offer you a chance to see the beautiful landscapes of Nepal.

⇒ Your Breakfast & Lunch are included in the package

Day 8: Tourist standard transport to Kathmandu (1,350 m/4,429 ft.)

After reaching Pokhara, you will take a tourist-standard transport back to Kathmandu, which is the capital city of Nepal and located at an altitude of 1,350 meters (4,429 ft.). The transport ride will take around 6-7 hours, and it will offer you a chance to see the beautiful landscapes of Nepal. The ride will be comfortable and will provide you with a chance to reflect on the experiences of your Poon Hill trek. On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel and it will be the end of your Poon Hill trek.

⇒ Your Breakfast is included in the package 

Day 9: Final Departure

On the final day of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise trek itinerary, you will have some free time in Kathmandu to do some last-minute shopping or to visit any sights that you may have missed during your stay. In the afternoon or evening, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your departure flight. This will mark the end of your Poon Hill sunrise trekking and your journey in Nepal. Your tour leader will assist you with your airport formalities and make sure that you have a smooth departure.

⇒ Your Breakfast is included in the package 

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

History and culture of the Annapurna region

The Annapurna region has a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times. It is home to diverse ethnic groups such as the Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Manangis, each with its unique customs, traditions, and beliefs. The region is dotted with many ancient temples, monasteries, and shrines that are of great cultural and religious significance. The people of this region are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors are welcomed with open arms. The Annapurna region also played a crucial role in Nepal’s tourism industry, attracting trekkers and adventurers from all over the world.

Flora and fauna

The Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The trek offers a chance to experience a diverse range of flora and fauna as you hike through lush forests, verdant meadows, and rugged mountain landscapes. The region is home to over 1,200 species of plants, including rhododendrons, magnolias, orchids, and ferns. The forests are also home to a variety of wildlife, such as langur monkeys, Himalayan Thar(Mountain Goat), musk deer, and even the elusive snow leopard. Additionally, the trek offers a chance to spot over 450 species of birds, including the Himalayan Monal, pheasants, and eagles.

About a Hot shower and a Private room during poon hill sunrise trekking

Yes, it is possible to have a hot shower and a private room during the Poon Hill sunrise trek. However, it is important to note that the availability of hot showers and private rooms may vary depending on the tea house or lodge you stay in.

Many tea houses offer hot showers for a small fee, typically ranging from 200 to 500 Nepali rupees. These showers are often shared with other trekkers and are located in specific rooms or areas designated for showering. The type of shower provided may vary as well, with some tea houses using solar-powered showers while others may use gas-powered showers.

In terms of private rooms, most tea houses offer basic, shared accommodation with communal bathrooms. However, some tea houses may have private rooms available for an additional fee, which can range from 500 to 1500 Nepali rupees per night, depending on the location and amenities provided.

It is important to note that during peak trekking season (October to November and March to April), the availability of hot showers and private rooms can be limited, so it is advisable to book in advance or arrive early to secure accommodation that meets your preferences.

Information on the villages and communities along the trek

The Poon Hill trek passes through several villages and communities, each with its unique culture, traditions, and way of life. One of the first villages on the trek is Tikhedhunga, located on the banks of the Bhurungdi Khola River. It is a small village with traditional stone houses and narrow streets. The next village is Ghorepani, which is a popular stopover point for trekkers. It is located on a ridge and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Other villages on the trek include Tadapani, Ghandruk, and Landruk. These villages are inhabited by the Gurung and Magar communities, who are renowned for their hospitality, traditional music, and colorful festivals. Trekkers can explore these villages, interact with the locals, and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The role of experienced Guides and Porters on the trek

Experienced guides and porters play a crucial role in making trekking trips safe, enjoyable, and successful. Guides have in-depth knowledge of the trekking routes, weather conditions, and the local culture. They can provide valuable insights into the region’s history, flora, and fauna. They can also help with language barriers and cultural differences, making communication with local people easier. Porters are responsible for carrying the bulk of the gear, supplies, and food, allowing trekkers to focus on the trek and enjoy the scenery. Guides and porters can also provide support in case of emergencies, including medical assistance and rescue operations. Their expertise and assistance can make a significant difference in the overall trekking experience.

Charging batteries during the poon hill sunrise trekking

Charging your batteries during the Poon Hill sunrise trek can be challenging due to the lack of access to electricity in some areas. However, there are several options available to keep your devices charged:

• Bring spare batteries: If you have a camera or other devices that use removable batteries, consider bringing extra batteries with you. This way, you can swap out the batteries as needed without worrying about finding a power source to recharge them.
• Use teahouse charging stations: Many tea houses and lodges along the trekking route offer charging services for a small fee. These charging stations are often powered by solar or hydroelectric power and may be limited in availability or capacity.
• Bring a portable power bank: A portable power bank can be a lifesaver on a trekking trip. They come in various sizes and capacities and can be used to charge your devices multiple times. Just remember to charge the power bank before you set out on your trek.
• Use solar chargers: Solar chargers are a great option for charging devices during the day. They are lightweight, portable, and can be attached to the outside of your backpack to charge as you walk.
• Plan: Consider reducing battery usage by turning off unnecessary apps or functions on your device. You can also plan by only using your device when necessary and conserving battery power when you’re not using it.

It is important to note that charging services may not be available at every tea house, so it is advisable to plan and bring spare batteries or a portable power bank to ensure you have enough power for the duration of your trek.

Entry fees to go to Poon Hill for sunrise

I apologize for the confusion in my previous response. You are correct, trekkers do have to pay a fee to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes Poon Hill. As of September 2021, the fee for foreign trekkers is 3,000 Nepali Rupees per person for a permit to enter the conservation area. Additionally, there is an additional fee of 100 Nepali Rupees per person to enter Poon Hill, which is collected at the entrance gate. These fees help to support the conservation and maintenance of the area.

How to book a trekking package for the Poon Hill trek with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd.

Booking a trekking package with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. for the Poon Hill trek is a simple process. Here are the steps to follow:

• Visit the Safe Holiday Adventure website or contact them via email or phone to inquire about the Poon Hill trek package.
• Once you have selected the package that suits your needs, fill out the booking form and provide your details, including your name, email, and contact information.
• Confirm your trekking dates and the number of participants, as well as any additional requirements or requests you may have.
• Pay a deposit to secure your booking. Safe Holiday Adventure accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers.
• Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a detailed itinerary, packing list, and other essential information about the trek.
• Safe Holiday Adventure will arrange for a pickup from the airport or your hotel in Kathmandu and provide you with a pre-trek briefing.
• Enjoy your trekking experience with Safe Holiday Adventure’s experienced guides and porters, who will ensure that you have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trek.
• After completing the trek, provide feedback to Safe Holiday Adventure about your experience and settle any remaining payments.

Booking a trekking package with Safe Holiday Adventure ensures that you have a hassle-free and memorable trekking experience in the beautiful Poon Hill region of Nepal.

Short itinerary of Poon Hill, Sunrise Trekking:

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Nayapul (the starting point of the trek) and trek to Tikhedhunga (1,570m),

Day 2: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,850m),

Day 3: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for sunrise and then trek to Tadapani (2,610m),

Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m),

Day 5: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive back to Kathmandu.

Health and safety considerations

As with any trek, health and safety considerations are important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill region. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Altitude sickness: The trek involves a gradual ascent to high altitude, so it’s important to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
• Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene is essential to avoid getting sick. Wash your hands regularly, avoid drinking untreated water, and only eat well-cooked food.
• Proper gear: Wearing proper trekking gear, including sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and a waterproof jacket, can help prevent injuries and keep you comfortable.
• Trekking permits: Ensure you have the necessary trekking permits, such as the TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
• Trekking with a guide: Trekking with a guide is recommended as they can provide valuable information, keep you on track, and assist in case of an emergency.
• Emergency procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and have a plan in place in case of an emergency.
• Travel insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes and emergency evacuation.
• Weather: Be aware of the weather conditions and trek accordingly. Avoid trekking during the monsoon season, and prepare for cold temperatures at high altitudes.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill region.

Sustainability and responsible Tourism practices

The Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek has gained popularity in recent years, and as a result, sustainability and responsible tourism practices have become increasingly important. Here are some ways to practice responsible tourism in the region:

• Support local businesses: Choose to stay in locally owned tea houses and lodges, eat at local restaurants, and purchase souvenirs from local shops.
• Respect the environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles and avoid littering or disturbing the natural environment. Pack out all trash and dispose of it properly.
• Conserve water: Water is a precious resource in the mountains, so conserve it by taking shorter showers and turning off the tap when brushing your teeth.
• Minimize plastic waste: Bring a reusable water bottle and say no to single-use plastics whenever possible.
• Use eco-friendly products: Use biodegradable soap and shampoo, and avoid products that contain harmful chemicals.
• Choose sustainable transportation: Choose buses or shared jeeps instead of private vehicles when possible, and consider offsetting the carbon emissions of your trip.
• Respect local culture: Learn about and respect local customs and beliefs, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

By practicing responsible tourism, we can help preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill region for future generations to enjoy.

Comparisons with other popular trekking destinations in Nepal 

The Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, along with several other well-known treks. Here are some comparisons with other popular trekking destinations:

Everest Base Camp Trek: The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most challenging and famous treks in Nepal. It involves trekking to the base camp of Mount Everest and offers stunning views of the highest mountain in the world. However, the trek is more difficult and requires more time and resources than the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.

Langtang Valley trek: The Langtang Valley trek is another popular trekking destination in Nepal, offering stunning mountain views and unique cultural experiences. However, the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek offers a wider variety of landscapes and cultural experiences.

Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a more remote and less-trekked route, offering stunning mountain views and unique cultural experiences. However, the trek is longer and more difficult than the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.

Annapurna Circuit trek: The Annapurna Circuit trek is a longer and more challenging trek than the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, offering stunning mountain views and a wider variety of landscapes and cultural experiences.

Overall, the Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill trek offers a moderate level of difficulty and is accessible to a wide range of trekkers, while still providing stunning mountain views and unique cultural experiences.

Poon Hill Sunrise Trekking FAQs⇓

Where is the Poon Hill trek?

Poonhill trek is in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is in the Central Himalayan region of Nepal. The Poon Hill trek is also known as a Ghorepani trek. This short trek is near Pokhara. If you plan to visit the Poon Hill sunrise spot, then now there are quite a few options, as on your time and budget.

How long is the poon hill trek?

The Poon Hill trek offers various options, but following the Classic route to poon hill, it takes 4 Nights- 5 Days. If you are short on time, it can be done within 2 full days (2 days Poon hill trek), or 3 days, if not 4 nights, 5 days, showing you many Breathtaking views of mountains and unique cultures.

How to book accommodation?

If you are trekking in peak Seasons (Sep. – Nov.) & (March to May), then you should pre-book your accommodation by phone already because generally, they don’t book through the online systems. In another season in a year, you can go there and choose whichever guest House you like. Next, if you are trekking through the local travel agency, then they have already booked your accommodation; no worries, you just trek and enjoy.

Where is Nayapul?

Nayapul is about 42 kilometers away in the west of Pokhara. It is where many trekkers begin their trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Ghorepani, Ghandruk hike, etc. Nayapul is a popular gateway to Annapurna treks.

Can we have food in the guest house during the poon hill trek?

Big, yes… On this trek, there are plenty of small restaurants that sell dry food, fruits, mineral water, bottled water, and various choices of food with local tastes. However, they have a food menu, and you choose.

Can we have internet in the Ghorepani poon hill trek?

For a few years, the internet has been very common in this route. If there is really bad weather, then you can’t get electricity for some time, and you may not get internet. Otherwise, you can use the internet(Wifi) in the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.

Are there religious restrictions?

No, not at all, they are very kind, helpful, and have no religious restrictions. Any religion you have, please, don’t worry, you can hike to Ghorepani poon hill. The Local people are not very religious, but they are mostly Buddhist.

How is the Poon Hill Sunrise trek?

Yes, it is just a wonderful, short, cheap, and easy trekking route that is located in the northwest of Kathmandu. The Poonhill sunrise trek is one of the most visited trekking paths in Nepal, as it is truly a natural and wonderful place. You can make this trek within 3 days to go and back from Pokhara, but if you have 4 nights and 5 days for this trek, then you will get to see so many typical things around, and without rush, you can trek. This trek offers you an admirable towering mountain view, including over 8000 m high mountains, Culture, and massive landscapes; hence, it is a wonderful short trek in Nepal.

How long do we have to walk during the Poon Hill sunrise trek?

We have to walk a total distance is about 51 km, going and back from Nayapul. It is 4 4-night 5-day trek if we follow the mild itinerary Hille-Ghorepani-Tadapani-Ghandruk and Pokhara.