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.
Please plan to reach Kathmandu by noon so that you can take the afternoon flight to Pokhara
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.
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.
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.
The total trekking distance is around 30 km.
Yes, there will be proper western toilets at all the places on this trek.The teahouses in Tadopani do not have attached bathrooms.
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.
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.
Laundry facilities will be available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, they use the same socket types in Nepal, so you will not need any adapters.
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.
Yes, there are hot-water showers everywhere.
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.