Panoramic view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from Poon Hill, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Walk through charming Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk, Tadapani, Ghorepani, and Ulleri, known for their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality.
Experience the diverse flora and fauna of the Annapurna region, including rhododendron forests, oak trees, and different species of birds and wildlife.
Cross suspension bridges over rivers and streams, providing a thrilling experience while enjoying the scenic beauty of the landscape.
Interact with the locals and learn about their way of life, culture, and customs.
Visit the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda and relax in the warm water, relieving your tired muscles.
Taste the delicious Nepali cuisine and traditional dishes like dal bhat, momos, and thukpa.
Explore the ancient temples, monasteries, and shrines on the way, including the famous Birethanti Temple and Annapurna Sanctuary.
Witness the unique architectural style of the traditional houses, including the intricate wood carvings and stone structures.
Trek through the lush forests, hilly terrains, and rocky paths, providing a challenging yet fulfilling experience.
Trip Overview
The Poon Hill Trekking is one of the most beloved short trekking routes in Nepal. This trekking destination in the Lower Annapurna region offers stunning Himalayan panoramas without the high-altitude challenges of longer expeditions. Located inside the heart of the Annapurna sanctuary, this Himalayan odyssey is best known for the breathtaking sunrise views from Poon Hill Viewpoint (3,210m/ 10,531ft). The first light of the day paints snow-clad giants like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre in golden and pink hues.
Generally, this trek lasts about 3 to 4 days, making it an ideal choice for trekkers who want a true and rewarding Gunalayan trekking experience without committing to high altitudes of long walking days like the Annapurna Circuit Trek or the Everest Base Camp. The Poon Hill Trekking route passes through charming Gurung and Magar villages, terraced farmlands and dense forests of rhododendron and oaks. You will start your trek from Nayapul and follow the route that crosses Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani, charming villages surrounded by lush hills.
From Ghorepnai, you will make an early morning ascent to Poon Hill for the famous sunrise views. The overall Poon Hill Trek length, an easy-to-moderate scale difficulty, well-maintained routes and teahouse accommodation support along the way, make it a perfect journey for beginners, families, or anyone who is looking for a short and scenic Himalayan adventure. As it is easily accessible from Pokhara, this trek is often described as a perfect introduction to Nepal’s trekking culture, a compact adventure with big mountain reward and the timeless charms of the Himalayas.
Here is a daily outline of the Poon Hill Trek itinerary that offers insights into the trekking route, elevation profile, estimated walking duration and daily distances. This table will give you a quick overview of how the journey unfolds and helps you understand the altitude progression, walking period, and distance covered on each day. With the help of this table, you can prepare your fitness level and travel plans accordingly. It is a handy snapshot for planning your Himalayan adventure before diving into the full itinerary details.
Trek Map and Elevation Profile
To help you visualize the Poon Hill Trekking route, we have included this detailed map and elevation chart below. Our 3 Day Poon Hill Trek itinerary map from Pokhara includes key villages and landmarks along the way. As for the elevation profile, it offers you a clear view of the altitude changes that you will experience throughout the trek. So, the bottom line, our trek map and elevation profile section gives you a practical overview of the terrain, distance and elevation gain to help you prepare efficiently for each day of the journey.
Cost Details
What's Included in Poon Hill Trekking
Pokhara to Nayapul and Nayapul to Pokhara both way transports.
Three meals during trekking.
A professional trekking guide with his all expenses.
All permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and TIMS Card.
Tea House accommodation during trek.
Fresh fruits during trek.
Poonhill trek map.
Eco Holidays T-shirt and Cap.
What's Excluded in Poon Hill Trekking
Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Your personal expenses.
All kinds of soft and hard drinks.
Potter if need ($65).
Tips for guide.
Price & Availability
Group Discount Available
1 Person
US$ 320
2 - 5 Person
US$ 285
6 - 10 Person
US$ 255
11 - 20 Person
US$ 225
Itinerary of Poon Hill Trekking - 3 days
Day 01
Drive to Nayapul and trek to Tikhe Dhunga
Our trek starts after a pleasant stop in beautiful Pokhara, enjoying views of Annapurna Himal and Machhapuchare peaks ‘Fish Tail.’ After breakfast, take a drive beyond Pokhara valley to start the first-day trek to the high hills of Annapurna Himalaya.
Afterward, the drive leads along with grand views of Annapurna past farm villages and towns. And then, by the bank of the Modi River, reach Bhirethati, a charming village around the Annapurna region. From here, walk within the farm village with a slow uphill to reach Hille and at Tikhe Dhunga for an overnight halt. Over there, you will get views of beautiful waterfalls near the lodge.
Max. Elevation:1540
Duration:1.5 to 2 hours(drive) and 4 to 5 hours(trek)
Distance:44km(drive) and 9.2km(trek)
Day 02
Trek to Ghorepani
Morning from Tikhedhunga starts with steep climb on stone paved steps to reach Ulleri village. Next, on gradual winding trail to Ghorepani, walk leads within serene and lovely alpine woodland of rhododendron and pine trees.
After a great walk in the shade of woodland then reach at Ghorepani village. So, next early morning hike takes you to Poon Hill for sunrise and panorama of mountains. Ghorepani is inhabited by Poon people of Magar tribe, an ethnic hill tribe of Nepal. Moreover, they are famous as Gorkha soldiers in UK-India and other foreign countries. This village with many good lodges offers marvelous views of Dhaulagiri-Tukuche-Nilgiri’s and Annapurna Himalayan mountains.
Max. Elevation:2874
Duration:5 hours
Distance:12.9km
Day 03
Hike to Poon Hill height walk to Nayapul drive to Pokhara
Starting early morning before sunrise, hike up for an hour to the top of Poon Hill situated above 3,210 m. Thus, this will be the highest point of the Poonhill via Ghorepani trek.
From Poon Hill catch stunning sunrise over panorama of mountains. These includes Dhaulagiri-Tukuche-Nilgiri’s-Annapurna Fang (Vara Shikar) Annapurna range of peaks with majestic Machhapuchare Himal ‘Fish Tail’ the unclimbed and virgin peaks of Himalaya.
Also includes Mt. Manaslu with Lamjung extending towards Ganesh Himal due east horizon. After a marvelous photo session head back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Subsequently, carry on trekking with long downhill within forest rhododendron trees with views of mountains.
Finally, walk leads to descend to reach Modi River past nice Bhirethati village. Then head towards Nayapul for exciting few hour drive to Pokhara by its serene Phewa Lake.
Max. Elevation:822
Duration:5 hours(trek) and 1.5 to 2 hours(drive)
Distance:9.8km(trek) and 44km(drive)
If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we can create personalized travel arrangements.
Due to the low-altitude nature of the Poon Hill Trekking route, it can be done throughout the year. However, the off-season period does come with some challenges that the trekkers need to prepare for. Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, leeches on the trail and cloud-covered skies. During this season, the crowds thin out and the mountain views remain obstructed. You can still explore this majestic low-altitude trail in monsoon, but you will need to be prepared for the slippery paths and the unpredictable weather factors.
As for the winter season (December to February), it offers clear skies and quiet trails. However, during this point of the year, temperatures drop significantly, especially at the higher part of the trail, like Ghorepani and Poon Hill. The mornings and nights can be freezing, snowfall is possible, but the trail remains accessible. If you prefer solitude and are prepared for the cold, winter can be a rewarding time to trek.
What to Pack for Poon Hill Trek?
Packing smart is one of the most crucial steps in preparing for the 3 Day Poon Hill Trek itinerary from Pokhara. Although this trek is relatively short and a moderate adventure in the Annapurna region, the weather variations, trail conditions and altitude changes demand a practical and well-thought-out gear list. The trail takes you through everything from the warm lowland valleys to chilly mountain mornings. So, if you are wondering about what to pack for Poon Hill Trek, you need to find a balance between comfort, protection and weight.
Here is a well-rounded checklist covering all essentials with a breakdown into logical categories:
Clothing Layers
Quick-dry trekking t-shirts
Lightweight thermal tops
Thermal bottoms
Fleece jacket
Sweater
Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
Watyerproof trouser
Quick-dry trekking pants
Shorts
Warm leggings
Woolen hat or beanie
Lightweight sun hat or cap
Neck gaiter or buff
Thin inner globes
Warm fleece or wool gloves
Moisture-wicking undergarments
Footwear
Broken-in trekking boots (waterproof and with ankle support)
Comfortable sports or trainer shoes (for short hikes)
Lightweight sandals or camp shoes
Quality trekking socks (wool or synthetic blend)
Thick insulated socks
Gaiters (optional, but helpful for rain or dusty trails)
Personal Hygiene and Toiletries
Toothbrush and small toothpaste
Biodegradable soap and face wash
Quick-dry travel towel
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes and tissue paper
Toilet paper
Sunscreen cream and lip balm with SPF
Small comb and nail clipper
Footpowder and perfume
Female hygiene products
Personal medication (if any)
Trekking Gear and Equipment
Comfortable backpacking with rain cover (25 to 35L)
Duffel bag (carried by porter)
Trekking poles
Headlamp with extra batteries
Reusable water bottle
Sunglasses with UV protection
Powerbank and portable solar charger
Universal adapter
Lightweight sleeping bag
Small padlock (for securing duffel bag or teahouse room)
Dry sacks or zip-lock bags
Small first-aid kit
Accommodation and Food During Trek
While trekking Pokhara Poon Hill, one of the most comforting aspects is that you can soak in the beauty of the Himalayas without the need for camping or carrying heavy loads. Along the trekking trail, you will find a network of friendly and locally run teahouses. These accommodating establishments offer warm beds, hotel meals and the welcoming hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.
While luxury may not be available everywhere, you will find simplicity, cleanliness and genuine care, which is exactly what most of the trekkers look for after a long day on the trail. Each village along the trekking route has teahouses that cater to the trekkers. These lodges are usually built from stone and wood and they have communal dining areas and simple private rooms.
What to Expect for Accommodation:
Rooms: Twin-bed room with foam mattress, pillow and blanket (carrying your own sleeping bag is highly recommended, especially during colder seasons)
Showers: Available at most teahouses at an additional cost
Electricity and Charging: Is available but charged per device
Wi-Fi: Offered in larger villages for a small fee (expect slow speeds, especially during peak season)
Food on Trail: Simple, Wholesome and Filling
If you have any friends who have previously explored the Poon Hill Trekking route, then you might have heard them saying that the food is one of the most comforting parts of this experience. Yes, they are not fancy, but they are warm, nourishing and ideally tailored to keep trekkers healthy and energized throughout the day.
There is a trick to preparing meals for trekkers in the high-altitude trekking routes. The semi-standardized measure that all the teahouses adhere to is curated specifically for the trekking needs; high in carbs, moderate in protein and easy to digest at higher altitudes. You can also play mix with the Nepali, Tibetan and Western-style dishes depending on your preference.
Breakfast Menu
Tibetan bread
Chapati
Pancake
Porridge
Muesli
Cornflake
Toast with butter, jam, peanut butter, or eggs
Eggs (boiled, scrambled, fried)
Hash brown or fried potatoes
Full breakfast set (usually with toast, eggs, potatoes, tea or coffee)
Lunch and Dinner
Dal bhat tarkari (steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable, pickles and unlimited refills)
Vegetable curry with rice
Aloo tama
Roti (Nepali-style flatbread) served with curry
Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)
Sherpa stew (vegetables, noodles, cheese)
Tsampa porridge (roasted barley flour porridge)
Tingmo (steamed Tibetan bread)
Momo (veg, chicken, buff, fried, cheese)
Fried rice
Spaghetti
Macaroni
Chowmein
Spring rolls
Boiled potatoes
French fries
Papad
Soup (tomato, mushroom, garlic, lentil)
Beverage Options
Tea (black, milk, ginger, lemon, malsa)
Instant coffee (black, milk, or sweetened)
Nescafé (when available)
Hot chocolate
Hot lemon
Boiled water
Juice (seasonal fruit or powdered)
Cold drinks (coca-cola, fanta, sprite)
Canned cold coffee
Energy drinks
Occasionally beer (Everest, Tuborg and Gorkha)
Drinking Water
You need to be very mindful about staying hydrated during the high-altitude treks. During the long hours of walking, you will lose a significant amount of water from your body. This doesn’t only make you susceptible to dehydration, but it can also trigger the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Fortunately, safe drinking water is easily available throughout the Poon Hill Trekking route. Though you need to be careful about where to get it and how to treat it safely.
Water Source Along the Route
Public Water Taps: Available at the villages and rest stops
Teahouses: They offer refills of boiled water (usually for a small fee)
Streams and Natural Springs: Only some areas have safe stations (always treat before drinking)
Bottled Water: Available for purchase in teahouses and shops (not generally recommended due to environmental reasons)
Buying boiled water at the teahouses is an idealistically environmentally friendly and economical option. If you plan to fill your bottles at the clean water stations, make sure to use purification tablets, UV sterilizers, or portable water filters. As for the drinking quantity, aim to drink at least 3 to 4 liters per day.
**Note: During the trek, make sure to carry at least two water bottles with 2 to 3 liters capacity. This way, you won’t run out of water between the villages**
Training and Preparation
Yes, the 3 Day Poon Hill Trek itinerary from Pokhara is one more accessible and easy-grade adventure compared to the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. But, still, if you are well-prepared for the journey, there will be no room to complain. The Poon Hill Trekking route does include long stair climbs, steep ascents and descents. So, if you show up well-prepared and ready, your body will most definitely thank you.
You don’t need to aim for a mountaineer or an elite athlete level. But, do emphasize on moderate level of cardiovascular fitness, leg strength and endurance. Doing this will greatly improve your confidence and pace on the trail. We recommend that you train for at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trek. Focus on cardio workouts, leg and core strength and include stretching and balance exercises as well to prevent injury and soreness.
Doing moderate-level hikes during the weekend is also one of the most efficient ways to prepare for this journey. But, do carry your backpack with you during the hike (5 to 7 kg preferably). By doing this, you will familiarize your body with uphill walking and it will also help you with acclimatization practice.
Poon Hill Trek Permit
Trekking Pokhara Poon Hill, it is essential to obtain an official permit as you will traverse inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. This permit helps to fund the conservation projects, support local communities and maintain the trail and infrastructure, due to which exploring this scenic route is possible. Yeah, you might be having thoughts like why this short and well-traveled route requires a permit. Well, it falls within the protected conservation zones and has nothing to do with the number of days.
Trekking without permits can lead to heavy fines or being turned away at the checkpoints. Here is the Poon Hill Trek Permit that you need to secure for this journey.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
This permit is obtainable from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in both Kathmandu and Pokhara cities. If you are doing this trek through an agency, they will collect the necessary permits on your behalf. You need to carry the ACAP Permit with you all the time and present it at the checkpoints. It's best if you keep photocopies and a digital backup of the permits as well.
**Note: The permit for Poon Hill Hike Nepal is not issued at Nayapul or on the trail. You must obtain it in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek**
Is This Trek Suitable for Beginners?
To put it in simple words, unlike the major high-elevation routes in the Himalayas, the Poon Hill Trekking Route is one of the best beginner-friendly adventures. This journey is considered best for those who are new to high-altitude trekking or even hiking at all. But it doesn’t mean you can just show up unprepared. This mountain trekking route is definitely easy-going, but it still involves an uphill climbing route and altitude gain. So, if you are a beginner and not prepared on top of that, the journey can feel taxing.
In overall, this beginner and family-friendly adventure has a beautiful mix of manageable walking distances, comfortable accommodations and rich cultural experiences, all within a short timeframe. Here are the reasons why the Poon Hill Trekking route is ideal for beginners:
Moderate Altitude: Maximum altitude on this trek is 3,210m (Poon Hill), which is well below the typical threshold for serious altitude sickness
Short Duration: This entire trek can be completed within just 3 days, making it ideal for those going to the Himalayas for the first time or time-constrained travelers
Well-Maintained Trail: Poon Hill Trekking route is part of the Lower Annapurna region, so the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, smooth as butter to navigate
Comfortable Teahouse Accommodation: During this trek, you will stay at cozy teahouses that will accommodate you with warm food, clean beds and friendly hospitality, there is no need for camping or self-cooking
Incredible Reward for the Effort: For a relatively short trek, the Poon Hill Trek offers fascinating rewards like an immersive cultural experience, stunning panorama, diverse terrain and a true mountain trekking experience without missing a beat
Trek Cost
One of the main reasons why the Poon Hill Trekking is so popular beyond its incredible mountain views is that the journey is very affordable and accessible. Even those traveling on a budget can enjoy this experience without the consistent worry about breaking the bank. The standard Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek price margin is approximately US$ 300 to US$ 450 per person. But, remember, this is just an estimation. The actual price can differ depending on your travel style, transportation, guide and porter, as well as the level of services offered.
The general Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek price of a package will cover expenses such as food, accommodation, permit, government-licensed guide, government tax, service charge, etc. At Eco Holidays Nepal, we are offering this remarkable Himalayan adventure at just US$ 320 per person. We believe that an unforgettable Himalayan experience shouldn’t come with a heavy price tag. At this price range, Eco Holidays Nepal guarantees a complete and worry-free Himalayan experience crafted with care, safety and local expertise.
Travel Visa
If you are wondering about the visa process for Poon Hill Trek Pokhara, don’t worry, getting a visa in Nepal is an easy and quiet straightforward process. All international trekkers besides Indians need to acquire the Nepal Tourist Visa for access into the country. Most travelers can obtain on arrival visa upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or overland entry points. As for the pre-arranged visa, you can apply for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
For your stay in the country, you can apply for three types of travel visas:
15 Days Visa— US$ 30
30 Days Visa— US$ 50
90 Days Visa— US$ 125
In the context of the Poon Hill Trek Itinerary 3 Days, a 15 day visa is more than enough. But if you have plans to explore more of what Nepal has to offer, you can apply for the visa, being mindful about the timeframe. There is also provision for the visa extension process. If you want ot stay longer than your intended period, you can apply for a 15-day extension, which will cost US$ 45.
Poon Hill Trekking FAQs
How do I prepare for the trek?
As we all know the mountains are in high altitude region, we need to walk a long way without any means of transpotation, so to hike a long way we need to be fit by work out daily. And the pace of the speed must be normal so that there wont be any issue on breathing. Understanding the environment and trail of the trip may help your trip more comfortabe and adventurous.
Why is Acclimatization necessary?
Acclimatization is essential for the trek to avoid altitude sickness. Although the trek is ideal you must ensure that the acclimatization is appropriately performed. As the mountains are in high altitude, we human living on low altitude cant adopt easily into high level altitude. There are other factor, hydrating regularly along the trail. You should also avoid caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages. As you can have DIAMOX tablets which reduce the altitude sickness, you can ask for this tablet before the trek starts or in the middle of the trek, as you feel you might need those tablet for your further trail, with your guide. And this tablet ensure that you will not have a altitude sickness.
What are the accommodation facilities on the trek?
Trekking routes throughout Nepal are supported by a wide network of teahouses and lodges that offer accommodation to trekkers. These establishments typically provide basic but comfortable rooms, usually with twin beds and shared bathroom facilities. In addition to lodging, many teahouses also offer meals and a communal dining area where trekkers can relax and socialize. Depending on the location and altitude, some teahouses may also provide extra amenities such as hot water showers, charging options, and limited internet access. Overall, they contribute to a convenient and culturally immersive trekking experience across the country.
What are the food facilities on the trek?
Food in the trek is the Nepalese diet of “Dal Bhaat.” You can have various other food items like noodles, chapati, thukpa, etc. Hot drinks like tea, garlic soup, coffee, etc., are popular in cold, high-altitude regions. Besides that, you can also carry your snacks to eat while trekking.
Does company provides porters and guides?
Yes, Eco Holidays Nepal provides clients with porters as part of a trekking package, porters will carry your main luggage, allowing you to enjoy your trek with just a light daypack. Also, Eco Holidays Nepal will provide you with a professional and licensed trekking guide, Your guide will lead the way to ensure your safety and will share local insights and make your journey meaningful with stories and cultural knowledge.
Please note that porter service may or may not be included in your selected package. If porter service is included, the cost will be covered in the package price. If the package does not include porter service, clients can request it separately, and the cost will need to be paid by the clients themselves. We’ll be happy to assist with porter arrangements based on your needs.
What are the pament methods in Nepal?
Common payment methods in Nepal are:
Cash-NPR
Credit and Debit Cards(visa, mastercard, American express)
You can get water facilities at the tea houses, or you can use water purification tablets on tap water. Bottled water is also valuable in the teahouses.
Why trek with Eco holiday Nepal?
Trekking with Eco Holidays Nepal is like walking through a dream with friends who truly care. We don't just guide you through breathtaking landscapes but also share beautiful memories and the heart of Nepal with you. With our warm hospitality, deep local knowledge, and genuine commitment to protecting nature and supporting all the local communities, every step you and we take becomes a beautiful memory that we will cherish forever.
A Nature-filled Birthday Celebration in Nepal with Eco Holidays
My family and I planned a special celebration for my son's birthday. We discussed where to go and made a list of various countries, but since my son loves nature, we all decided on Nepal as the perfect destination for the celebration. We thought trekking would be the best way to celebrate, so we planned to go to Poon Hill. We contacted Eco Holidays Nepal and Mr. Dhruba Dharel, who gave us great advice and provided a helpful packing list. Once we arrived in Nepal, we started our trek with our guide, reached Poon Hill, and celebrated the birthday. I believe this was the best family celebration we've ever had.
SSofia Rossi10th Jun, 2025
Epic Sunrise at Poon Hill Trekking
My friend once told me that Nepal is rich in natural and cultural beauty. At the time, I wasn’t particularly impressed. However when I visited Nepal in November 2024 I found the country to be beyond my imagination, with its stunning culture and breathtaking scenery. I wanted to explore a place near Pokhara, so I contacted Mr. Dhruba. He suggested Poon Hill, which is a perfect trekking destination for beginners. Since I was new to trekking, I decided to go for it. When I arrived in Nepal, Mr. Dhruba helped me with everything from pick-up and drop-off to personal guidance throughout the trip. The service I received was truly wonderful. I’m very thankful to Mr. Dhruba and his team for their support, and a special thanks to Eco Holidays Nepal for making my experience so memorable.
AAlice Klein9th Jun, 2025
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
This was a strong and fantastic trek to Poon Hill with Ecoholidays Nepal. The accommodation and food were excellent, and the service provided by the Ecoholidays team was exceptional. The assistance with currency exchange and SIM card acquisition was incredibly helpful during my time in Nepal. I believe this journey will be unforgettable. Thank you so much!
AAshley Bennett10th Apr, 2025
Breathtaking Sunrise and an Amazing Trek to Poon Hill
Poon Hill Trek was the most fun trek and thank you Eco Holidays Nepal for making it enjoyable, it was a truly wonderful experience! A huge thank you to our experienced guide, Ram Karki. His knowledge of the trail, local culture, and nature made the trek incredibly enjoyable and informative. The Poon Hill Trek itself was the perfect combination of scenic beauty and manageable hiking ideal for a shorter trek with maximum reward. The sunrise view from Poon Hill was absolutely breathtaking and worth every step!
If you're planning to do the Poon Hill Trek, I highly recommend Eco Holidays Nepal