About This Trek
The Poon Hill Trek is the perfect introduction to Nepal's Himalayan landscapes and is one of the most popular short treks in the world. From the famous viewpoint at Poon Hill (3,210m), you'll be rewarded with one of the greatest mountain panoramas on earth — stretching from Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and beyond.
The trail winds through dense rhododendron and oak forests — truly spectacular in spring when the rhododendrons (Nepal's national flower) burst into red, pink, and white bloom. You'll pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, experiencing warm Nepali hospitality in authentic teahouses along the way.
Its relatively lower altitude and well-developed trail infrastructure make it accessible to beginners with basic fitness, yet the scenery rivals any high-altitude trek in the world.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul & Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
Drive 1.5 hours from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070m), the trek's starting point. Begin trekking through rice terraces and rhododendron forests. Cross the Modi Khola river and climb stone steps to Tikhedhunga.
Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m)
A long but magnificent day climbing 3,300+ stone steps through magical rhododendron and oak forests. The climb to Ghorepani is challenging but the views on arrival are extraordinary. Ghorepani is a classic teahouse village with commanding mountain views.
Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
Pre-dawn start (4:30am) for the 45-minute climb to Poon Hill. Watch the golden sunrise set the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges ablaze — a moment you will never forget. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek through rhododendron forests to Tadapani with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Day 4: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m)
Descend and ascend through stunning forests with close-up views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Chhomrong is a large Gurung village with panoramic terrace views and the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Day 5: Chhomrong to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara
Descend through terraced villages and forests back to Nayapul. Drive back to Pokhara for a celebratory lakeside dinner.
Day 6 (Optional): Pokhara Exploration
Optional extra day in Pokhara — boat on Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, paragliding, Davis Falls, or the International Mountain Museum.
Trek Highlights
What's Included
Best Time to Trek
🍂 Autumn (Sep – Nov)
Crystal-clear skies and sharp mountain views after the monsoon. The most popular season with stable, pleasant weather and cool temperatures.
🌸 Spring (Mar – May)
Spectacular rhododendron blooms transform the trail. Comfortable temperatures and generally good visibility, especially in March and early April.
❄️ Winter (Dec – Feb)
Quieter trails and stunning snow-covered landscapes. Cold nights at Ghorepani but clear views. Good for hardy trekkers seeking solitude.
🌧 Monsoon (Jun – Aug)
Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery with leeches. Limited visibility. Not recommended for Poon Hill — views are mostly obscured.
Important Notes
Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required. The climb to Ghorepani involves 3,300+ stone steps — good leg strength and stamina are helpful. Regular walking and hiking preparation is sufficient.
Altitude: Maximum altitude of 3,210m at Poon Hill is well below serious AMS risk for most people, though some individuals may experience mild headaches. Acclimatization is generally not a major concern.
Poon Hill Timing: The pre-dawn climb (usually 4–5am departure from Ghorepani) is essential for the sunrise. Bring warm layers and a good headlamp.
Beginner-Friendly: This is an excellent first Himalayan trek — one of the best ways to experience the Himalayas without requiring advanced trekking experience.