Annapurna sunrise trek is one of the best treks for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike as it explores the treasures of Nepal. The short cultural and natural trek prepares trekkers for other strenuous treks in the region.
The trek derives its name from the breath-taking and memorable sunrise view from the top of Poon Hill, made worthwhile by the snow-capped mountains glistening in the sun. The panoramic Himalayan view includes Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Himchuli, and Nilgiri.
The Annapurna Sunrise trek is also called family trek for the short, easy walks (5 hours) to an elevation of 3210 m. The trek can be best experienced during the months of February to May and October to December. Rhododendron forests, terraced fields, waterfalls, streams, and traditional villages adorn the entire trail.
The cultural trek explores temples, palaces, museums and traditional villages of the trail. Ghorepani is another Magar village whose people treat the tourists with warm hospitality.
The trek explores modern cities and beautiful hilly areas. The mesmerizing mountain peaks and green sceneries make a delightful company throughout the trail. All adventure lovers should try the trek for its natural and cultural treasures.
Highlights of Annapurna Sunrise Trekking
- Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Himchuli , Tarke kang, and Machchhapuchhre
- Traditional Magar and Gurung settlements
- World heritage sites of Kathmandu and Pokhara
You might want to consider Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek which are very similar trek in Annapurna region.
We take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight over green hills and snowy mountains reaches another beautiful valley, Pokhara. As Pokhara is our starting point, we check into a hotel and get briefed about the trip by our guide. If we have enough time, we visit famous sites of the city and then lounge around the lakeside area. We stay here overnight.
We begin the trek from Pokhara as we drive all the way to Nayapool. As we cross a suspension bridge, we reach Birethanti. We have lunch and get our permits checked here. Then, we make a 3 hours gradual climb to Tikhedhunga. We spend the night here.
The ascent from here is a difficult one as it reaches to a higher elevation. We climb stone steps, walk past meadows, fields, and rhododendron forests. Ghorepani is a typical Magar village with small shops selling the local products. The traditional residents welcome us with warm hospitality. It is a cultural experience along with the majestic beauty of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We stay here overnight.
We start the day early to reach Poon hill by sunrise. From Ghorepani, it takes about 45 minutes to reach the top of Poon Hill. The trek derives its name for the spellbinding sunrise from the vantage point. The view of the golden peaks as the sun colors the sky in different shades is exquisite. Capturing the beautiful scenery is a breathtaking experience that is photographed for memories.
From Poonhill, we descend back to Ghorepani and have our breakfast. Then, we proceed towards Tadapani by first heading east and climbing a ridge. Then making a descent through rhododendron forests and waterfalls, we finally reach Tadapani. We stay overnight in Tadapani.
From Tadapani, we trek through rhododendron and oak forests till we reach Ghandruk village. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach our destination. Ghandruk is a popular Gurung settlement with unique traditions. We enjoy the warm hospitality and the beautiful vistas of Annapurna range, Himchuli, Machchhapuchhre.
From Ghandruk, we continue downhill to a river and cross a suspension bridge. A short climb after that takes us to Jhinu Danda. There is a famous hot spring nearby where we relax for a while. We spend the night in Jhinu Danda.
The trek from Jhinu Danda to Potana takes about 6-7 hours. We climb up and down the hills encountering rhododendron forests, waterfalls, streams, and rivers. We also pass through other famous spots like Landruk and Tolka before we reach Potana. It is another famous destination with mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. We spend the night here.
From Potana, we trek downhill for about three hours, passing through Dhampus to Phedi. From Phedi we take a bus or car ride to Pokhara which ends our trek. We enjoy boating and music in the lakeside area in the evening.
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