Poon Hill lies on an altitude of 3,200 meters with a close view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The broad view of Kali Gandaki between peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri makes Poon Hill the most surreal trek.
Poon Hill trek is the most rewarding short trek in Nepal with easy access from Pokhara. Trek to this place is a most spectacular short trek in Annapurna Region. It is one of the shortest and easiest treks which does not need prior trekking experience. It is also rich in villages of ‘Pun Magar’ and ‘Gurungs’ full with legends of famous Gurkha warriors.
If you are planning Poon Hill Trek in your upcoming vacation, you may come across with different possible questions. You may want to analyze different trekking options for Poon Hill Trek.
If you are planning to trek Poon Hill and if this is your first time, do not panic! This article will help you choose which way is perfect for you.
Highlights
- Trek to heights of 3,232 meters at Poon Hill.
- Stunning sunrise view at Poon Hill.
- Tour to traditional Nepali rural villages in the Annapurna region.
- The beautiful village of Tikhedhunga.
- Moderate and the most popular short trek of Nepal.
- Incredible view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
- Ghandruk Museum which showcases traditional Gurung equipment, tools, and weapons.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
Pokhara is the main city to begin treks to Annapurna Region. It is one of the largest city in Nepal, also headquarter of Gandaki Zone. This city is also one of the famous tourist destinations.
Pokhara has many popular tourists destination. Some of them are Phewa Lake, Mahendra Cave, Sarangkot, and the World Peace Pagoda.
There are many options for you to travel between these two cities. You can choose any of these according to your budget.
By Airways (From Kathmandu to Pokhara)
Airways is the easiest way to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu. It only takes around 30 minutes to reach Pokhara from Tribhuvan International Airport. Daily flights are available from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
If you are time-bound, this option will be perfect as it will save your time. During this short flight, you will get to witness some beautiful Himalayas. It costs around USD 135 per person for one way. During the off-season, you might get the discount as well
By Road (From Kathmandu to Pokhara)
One of the most common ways of traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara is by bus. It takes around 7-8 hours to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu.
You can also use Tourists bus as it provides better facilities if you are traveling to Pokhara by road. It costs a bit higher but it is comfortable than normal bus.
They have extra facilities like WiFi, Air Conditioning, and less stops. Taking tourists bus is also the safest option as they carry limited travelers.
If you are not comfortable to travel on the public or tourists bus, you can also hire a private car with driver. You can hire different models of private cars according to your group size. It takes around 6-7 hours to reach Pokhara via private car.
Pokhara to Poon Hill
Pokhara to Nayapul (1070 meters)
It takes about an hours drive for you to reach Nayapul from Pokhara. The distance between Pokhara to Nayapul is 45.4 km/ 28.2 miles.
On your route, you will pass through Phedi, Kande, Naudanda, and Lumla. During the drive, you will observe the spectacular view of the Himalayas. This includes Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Macchapucchre, and other mountains on your way.
You can either get to Nayapul in a local bus or hire car, jeep or taxi. Although it is costly, it makes your travel more comfortable and fun. You can stop wherever you want and enjoy the scenic beauty of nature.
Nayapul to Tikhedhunga (1480 meters)
From Nayapul, you need to trek towards Birethanti along the Bank of Tikhedhunga. It lies at an altitude of 1,480 meters above sea level. The trail passes through Birethanti, Sudame, and Hile. Here, you will spot the magnificent scenery of natural waterfall and rural countryside.
It takes around 4 to 5 hours to reach Tikhedhunga from Nayapul.
Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2874 meters)
It takes around 6 to 7 hours for you to reach Ghorepani from Tikhedhunga. The trail consists of stone steps which will lead you toward “Ulleri Village”. This is the largest village of the Magar community.
This village lies in the boundary of Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP). Also, it has many guests houses that provide you with lodging and the meal facilities. You can stay here and rest after you reach Ghorepani from Tikhedhunga.
Ghorepani lies on the major trail that links the several villages and the Annapurna Base Camp. Along the route, you will pass through Banthanti which offers the breathtaking view of the Himalayas.
The place used to be the rest stop where the ancient traders used to find water for their horses.
Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210)
The complete highlight of this trek is Poon Hill. Early morning hiking for the best sunrise view over the Himalayas is a memorable experience. The distance between Ghorepani to Poon Hill is 1.5 km.
It takes you around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Poon Hill from Ghorepani. The trekking route consists mostly of stone stairs. You will experience amazing views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges. You can observe the beautiful mountains along with the different villages. These villages include a different ethnic group of people.
Packing for Poon Hill Trek
For those people who are yet to trek, this is a list to get you going. This depends on the season you travel, temperatures and your tolerances.
- Thick down jacket
- Thermal pants and tops
- Toasty gloves
- Fleece top
- Wind jacket
- Several pairs of woolen socks
- Hiking boots
- Casual close shoes
- Sleeping bag
- Sunglasses and
- Sunscreen
Points to note
- Make sure you have a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System Card). Permit for Annapurna Conservation Area is also required. You can get it at Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Make sure to bring a good map and a good guidebook.
- You need to bring well-equipped trekking gear, and first aid bag.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the weather at Poon Hill?
This place is quite windy. Make sure to bring warm clothes. October to November and March to April are best season for Poon Hill trek as weather remains pretty good in these month. During September to November, temperature lies between approximately 28˚C to 12˚C. Weather is pretty cloudy in spring season. Temperature may range from 20˚C to 30˚C in Poon Hill.
What is the cheapest way to reach Poon Hill from Kathmandu?
The cheapest way to reach Poon Hill from Kathmandu is via bus which will cost you around $7-$15.
Is there any chance of high altitude sickness?
There is no chance of high altitude sickness as Poon Hill trek is the low altitude trek. The maximum height that you will climb is 3210 meter.
What is the cost for this trek?
It costs around $650 per person for 9 days trekking to Poon Hill.
What is the fitness level required for Poon Hill Trekking?
It is one of the painless treks in the Annapurna region. Trekking hours is usually 5-7 hours a day. Anyone with normal fitness can join this trek.
Conclusion
Poon Hill trekking is also known as Annapurna Sunrise Trekking. It is Nepal’s most popular easy trek destination. Also, it is most visited trek route in the Annapurna region of Central Nepal.
This trek takes you through the beautiful Modi Khola valley to finally reach at the top of Poon Hill. You can have great panoramic views of the entire Annapurna Range from the top.
Be prepared for a bit of ribbing. The experiences on this route will provide you with happy memories and stories to tell for years.
This trek is full of adventure and is easy compared to other high-altitude treks. These treks are Everest Base Camp Trekking and Annapurna Base Camp Trekking.
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