Nepal Annapurna Panorama (Poon Hill Trek)

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Nepal Annapurna Panorama (Poon Hill Trek)

Region
Annapurna Region - Nepal
Distance
28km
Max Altitude
3210m (Poon Hill)
Max Group Size
Duration
7 days/ 6 nights, 4 days trekking
Best Time
October through May
Cost Per Person
₹ 38000+ 5% GST (for Indian passport holders)
Overview Itinerary Inclusions Gallery FAQ Reviews

Description

Upcoming Trips:  22nd to 28th March 2025

This is among the shortest but amply rewarding treks in the Annapurna region in Nepal. The trek commences at Banthanti which is about a 3-hour drive from Pokhara. It is a somewhat demanding hike up to Ghorepani, a village which was named so as it was a watering stop for mule caravans that carried luggage from Pokhara to Jomsom.

Poon Hill is about an hour’s climb from Ghorepani. Trekkers usually set off for Poon Hill while it is still dark in order to catch the spectacular sunrise from there. The stunning panoramic view from Poon Hill stretches from Dhaulagiri to the Annapurna peaks to Himchuli and Tarke Kang.

The return journey is via Tadopani and Ghandruk, a couple of quaint Gurung villages.

Itinerary

  • Day 1Your City - Kathmandu - Pokhara

    Take a flight from your city and try to reach Kathmandu by noon so that you can take an afternoon flight to Pokhara. Check into a comfortable hotel.

  • Day 2Pokhara - Banthanti (2000 m) - Ghorepani (2800 m)

    Drive to Banthanti(2000 m) via Nayapul and Hille (2.5 hours) Be prepared for a very bumpy ride for the last 30 min or so! The trek from there to Ghorepani (2800 m) should take around 3 hours. The trail meanders through dense forests and is dotted with a few waterfalls. You will cross a few villages and several teahouses before reaching the destination for the day.

  • Day 3Ghorepani - Poon Hill (3210 m) - Ghoderani

    Start early in the morning to catch the sunrise at Poon Hill (3210m). Enjoy views of the lofty Himalayan peaks, return to Ghorepani. It should take about 1 hour each way. It’s a relaxed day as there’s no activity planned after the morning’s hike. Go short walks in the vicinity if you wish.

  • Day 4Ghodepani - Tadopani (2650 m), 10 km trek

    Leave for Tadopani (2650 m) after breakfast. The 10 km, mostly downhill stretch of the trail should take about 3 hours.

  • Day 5Tadopani - Ghandruk - Pokhara

    The 6 km trek to Ghandruk (1950 m) is mostly downhill and one can negotiate it in about 3 hours. Drive back to Pokhara from Ghandruk (2 hours). Check into a comfortable 3-star hotel there. You will have some time in the evening for shopping.

  • Day 6Pokhara - Kathmandu

    Those interested can go on a paragliding session near Sarangkot in the morning. Catch an afternoon flight to Kathmandu. Check into a comfortable 3-star hotel there. Shop for some souvenirs and enjoy dinner at one of the numerous restaurants in the Thamel area.

  • Day 7Kathmandu - Your City

    Check out after breakfast. Visit Pashupatinath temple before heading to the airport to catch a flight back to your city.

Inclusions

  • 3 nights in 3-star hotels on twin-sharing basis, 3 nights in teahouses
  • Breakfast on all days. All meals during the trek
  • Airport pickup and drop
  • Flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back
  • Transfers to/from start/finish of the trek by Jeep
  • Trekking permits (TIMS card and ACAP)
  • Guides and porters
  • – Travel insurance for guides and porters

FAQ

By what time should we reach Kathmandu on Day 1?

Please plan to reach Kathmandu by noon so that you can take the afternoon flight to Pokhara

What kind of luggage can we get on this trip?

Please pack your luggage in a backpack or a duffel bag as they have to be carried by porters. They will not be able to carry suitcases.

Note that you will not have to carry all your luggage on the trek, you can leave behind some things in Pokhara – this can be packed in any luggage – even strolley bags.

What will the weather be like in March/April?

The average min/max temperature in Kathmandu is 21 and 10 deg C.

The average min/max temperature in Pokhara is 21 and 8 deg C.

The average min/max temperature in Ghorepani is 13 and
0 deg C. Expect a temperature of 5 deg C during the Poon Hill trek.

It does rain occasionally, so please pack some rain gear too.

What will the weather be like in Oct/Nov?

The average min/max temperature in Kathmandu is 23 and 8 deg C.

The average min/max temperature in Pokhara is 23 and 12 deg C.

The average min/max temperature in Ghorepani is 11 and
0 deg C. Expect slightly lower temperatures at Poon Hill

It does rain occasionally, so please pack some rain gear too.

What is the total distance we will cover on this trek?

The total trekking distance is around 30 km.

Will there be proper toilets in all places?

Yes, there will be proper western toilets at all the places on this trek.The teahouses in Tadopani do not have attached bathrooms.

My children are younger than 10 yrs. Will they be able to do this trek?

The recommended minimum age for doing this trek is 10 yrs. However you are the best judge. If your child is physically active and is used to walking long distances, he or she should be able to do it. Adequate preparation is necessary though.

What kind of preparation do you recommend for participants?

Brisk walking – at least 5 km, 3 or 4 times a week, preferably on hilly terrain. Stair-climbing – at least 15 minutes of climbing up and down stairs everyday is highly recommended (start with 5 min of stair-climbing and gradually increase the duration). Do consult your doctor if you experience any unusual pain while exercising.

Are laundry facilities available?

Laundry facilities will be available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Will I need trekking shoes?

Yes, you will need proper trekking shoes. Choose a model that has ankle support and good soles. Trekking with sport shoes is not recommended on this trip. Please buy them as soon as you register for the trek and break them in.

Is mobile connectivity available throughout the trek?

Mobile connectivity is available at all the places. However connection will be spotty during the trek. Internet speeds will be very low. It is recommended you take an NTC SIM on arrival at Kathmandu – there is an NTC counter just outside the exit gate. Tip – carry a photo and a copy of your passport – you will need these to purchase a SIM.

All the hotels have WiFi.

Do we have to carry our own luggage while trekking?

No, you will only need to carry a day pack in order to carry some water, short-eats, personal medicines, etc. Porters will carry your luggage to the destination.

Do all the places where we will be staying have electricity?

Yes, all stops during the trek have electricity. However there could be frequent power cuts. Please get torches or headlamps with extra batteries, and power banks for your phones.

Are the power sockets the same as in India?

Yes, they use the same socket types in Nepal, so you will not need any adapters.

Is water safe to drink in these places?

Drinking water will be available everywhere during the trek. However, it’s better to carry personal water purifiers (Aquaguard and LifeStraw are two popular brands available online) and avoid bottled water.

Can we get hot water for bathing at all the places?

Yes, there are hot-water showers everywhere.

Is Indian currency accepted in Nepal?

Indian currency is accepted in most places in Kathmandu and Pokhara (only 100 rupee notes and below). But in smaller places, you will need Nepalese currency. You can convert INR to NPR at the airport or at a money changer’s in Kathmandu.
You will only find ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara, so please carry some cash on the trek, say at least NPR 5000.

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