View of Mt. Dhaulagiri and mt. Annapurna ranges  near Ghorepani
Sunset over Annapurna and fishtail mountains. The view from Ghandruk.
The view of Fewa lake and Annapurna mountain ranges from World Peace Stupa.

Poonhill Trekking

Trip Code
BNTNP-002
Starting From
USD 1150
Duration
9 days
Group Size
02 Person
Max. Altitude
3210m
Trek starting point
Nayapul
Trek ending point
Nayapul
Accommodation
3 star hotel and lodges.
Meals
All meals during the trek
Transportation
Private vehicles and Flight
Challenge
Easy
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Poon Hill trekking is one of the shortest adventurous journeys that will take you through a picturesque expedition through the breathtaking topographic landscapes and stunning mountainous scenery.

The Poon Hill trek, set in the foothill of the Annapurna range, is one of the most culturally and geographically diverse regions popular among tourists visiting Nepal.

The entire journey will take you through dense forests, populated by Rhododendrons (Nepal’s national flower), and will set you free amidst the Himalayan Panorama. You will get an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the local culture there. It is also called the ‘Photographer’s Paradise’ and offers mountain lovers an opportunity to capture striking snapshots of the impressive Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.

Don’t forget to watch the phenomenal sunrise from Poon Hill, which promises to leave every early riser mesmerized throughout the day. Poon Hill is one of the unique trekking destinations for trekkers looking forward to a short exploration around. Book this trip and watch yourself wanting to explore more around Nepal.

Short Poon Hill Trek: The Best Introduction to the Nepal Himalaya

The trip will begin from Pokhara (which is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Nepal) and will unite you to the stunning Himalayan vistas and the cultural miscellaneous of the rural villages. You will then have to cross the Modi Khola River on a suspension bridge. Upon crossing, you will have to walk through the farm terraces and the ethnic villages, all the while enjoying the stunning views of the Machhapuchre (fishtail) standing mighty from between the hills.

You will have to walk mostly through the woods before you can reach the Ghorepani ridge. It’s a one hour climb from there to Poon Hill, from where travelers can get to witness the spectacular view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri. Nilgiri and other beautiful mountain peaks.

The journey of the Poon Hill Trekking will continue eastwards from the Ghorepani hill and will take via the beautiful Ghandruk village on the lap of Annapurna range and continue through the Modi Khola Valley – a lush green terraced valley. Visit to the village will promise to be a spectacular experience of rich culture, traditional houses, and great landscape. The journey will round-up once again at Pokhara.

Adventurous Key Highlights of the Journey

Poon Hill

Stunning view of the Annapurna Range

Sightseeing in Pokhara

The local Hindu culture

What's Included?

  • Airport transfers to/from by private vehicles.
  • Accommodation 2 nights at Kathmandu (3 star hotel/twin sharing basis) with breakfast and including all govt. taxes. (Hotel Tibet or similar)
  • Airfare Kathmandu/Pokhara by regularly scheduled or chartered flight, domestic airport tax and surcharges.
  • Accommodation 2 nights at Pokhara (3 star hotel/twin sharing basis) with breakfast and including all govt. taxes.
  • Half day sightseeing in Pokhara including Devis falls, International mountain museum and Phewa lake.
  • All varieties of meals on trek the lodge and restaurant menu after departing Kathmandu to before arriving back in Kathmandu, all kind of hot beverages, boiled water etc.
  • Service of Guide and porter during the trek and also their wages, foods, insurance and lodging.
  • Annapurna conservation area permits fee US$ 20.00 per person.
  • TIMS (Trekker’s information management system) card arrangements.
  • Staffs transportation costs and guide airfare.
  • All ground transfers to/from the trek start/ending point by private vehicles.
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist coach.
  • Agency service charges and all govt. applicable fees.

What's not Included?

  • Meals(Lunch, dinner) during staying in Kathmandu.
  • Visa fee (US$ 25) per person.
  • All personal expenses, travel insurance, rescue charge in emergency.
  • Purchases of bottled water while on the trek, gifts and alcohols.
  • Air travels to and from Nepal.
  • Extra cost to due to flight cancellation or road condition.

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the Hotel(1340m)

We will meet you at the airport and then transfer to the Hotel which is close to the multitude of shopping centers and restaurants.

Day 02 Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (850m) 25 minutes flight.

After breakfast drive to the airport and you will take a short flight to Pokhara, the western part of Nepal (25 Minutes). Transfer to the hotel and you will be taken for half day sightseeing tour in Pokhara. You will visit Devi's fall, International Mountain Museum and boating in Fewa Lake. Overnight in Hotel at Pokhara.

 

Day 03 Trek to Tikhedunga (1540m) 4-5 hrs walking.

After Breakfast, drive an hour by private vehicles from Pokhara to Nayapul. From Nayapual we start walking along the Modi Khola valley and we reach Birethanti. Then the trail is following the left bank of Burungdi Khola for few hours.

We leave the Burungdi Khola and the trail climbs high along the upper edge of the terraced fields to Hile village. Continue short walk and reach Tikhedunga.

 

Day 04 Tikhedunga to Ghorepani (2855m) 6-7 hrs walking.

Cross the suspension bridge over the Burungdi Khola, resume trek ascending the long steep hill with stone stairs to Ulleri village. Then it is gradually climbing up to the ridge crosses the Banthanti. After Banthanti the trail becomes forested. Walk through the dense Rhododendron forest passing the waterfalls and many corners until we reach to Nangethanti.

The forest continues as you ascend to Ghorepani passing few Lodges. After 15 minute climbs to the Ghorepani pass, you can see the wide valley to the north. Overnight in a lodge at Ghorepani.

 

Day 05 Hiking to Poonhill (3210m) and resume trek to Tadapani (2680m) 5-6 hrs walking.

Early morning hike up to Poonhill (3210m) about one hour to observe the Sunrise view and outstanding panorama of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountain ranges. Walk back to Ghorepani for breakfast. The trail follows a Rhododendron covered ridge; after a short climb, you come to an excellent view point.

The ridge path descends to Deurali (3150m) through teahouses and souvenir shops. Descend to the valley and follow the stream, crossing it 4 times until you reach Banthanti where we will take lunch.

Cross the stream and climb on the left side of the mountain entering a Rhododendron covered forest, descending a zigzag trail to the river and cross the wooden bridge. Then climb the steep slope on the opposite bank to Tadapani. Overnight stay in Lodge at Tadapani.

Day 06 Tadapani to Ghandruk Village (1950m) 3-4 hrs walking.

Early morning an excellent view of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre appears from here. Also a very good opportunity to see the sunrise view. Walk down the mountain trail from Tadapani; through dense mixed forests and descend passing the teahouses through BaisiKharka, Sitkyu and reach Ghandruk which is the typical settlement of Gurung communities. Overnight at Ghandruk.

 

Day 07 Ghandruk to Pokhara (850m)4-5 hrs walking

An Easy walking following the valley of the Modi Khola, through the village of Kimche and Syaulibazaar.  After arriving Birethanti we will meet the trail of the starting point. Drive to Pokhara an hour and stay overnight in Hotel at Pokhara.

 

Day 08 Drive back to Kathmandu. 6-7 hrs driving.

After breakfast drive to bus park for your journey back to Kathmandu by tourist coach. Overnight in Hotel at Kathmandu.

 

Day 09 Departure back to home

Today is the last day of your trip in Himalaya, as we will transfer you to the international airport.We trust that you will cherish this inspiring experience and the deep, newly formed friendships in the years to come.

 

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  1. Sleeping bag (down), rated to -10-degree centigrade (If you don’t have them it can rent in Kathmandu for your trek period).
  2. Sleeping bag liner (optional)
  3. Hiking boots should be lightweight to medium weight leather or Gore-Tex.  Your boots should fit well and be completely broken in prior to your trek.
  4. Sneakers or sandals for camp and town.
  5. Socks, thin liners (polypro or silk), thick outer socks (wool or polypro).  Bring 3 changes of socks.
  6. Thermal underwear, polypropylene or other synthetic (No cotton).  
  7. Lightweight hiking pants,  Insulating pants (fleece or equivalent),  Rain pants.
  8. Several t-shirts, both long and short sleeved.
  9. Shirts long sleeved.
  10. Rain jacket/poncho(Gore-Tex) or equivalent is ideal
  11. Down jacket.
  12. Fleece Jackets
  13. Warm hat
  14. Hat for sun protection.
  15. Gloves or mittens.
  16. Quality sunglasses with 100% UV and IV protection. (It is also recommended to bring a spare pair)
  17. If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, bring spares.
  18. Two (2) good quality 1-litre water bottles.
  19. Trekking poles. (optional, and can be purchased in Kathmandu)
  20. Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
  21. Reading/writing materials.
  22. Pictures of where you live, your family, and what you do. (to share with people along the way).
  23. Camera and spare batteries.
  24. Special snack items in zip lock bags.
  25. Earplugs (for travel)
  26. Particle masks (for dust)
  27. Toilet kit with a towel, washcloth, bandanna, scrub brush, short clothesline, safety pins, mesh laundry bag, biodegradable soap, toilet paper, pre-moistened towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
  28. Women: bring extra sanitary supplies and zip lock bags to pack out used materials.
  29. Personal medical/first aid kit with aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, nasal/throat decongestant, topical antiseptic, band-aids/bandages, sunscreen, and lip balm, laxative, anti-diarrhea medicines, antacid, water purification tablets (or filter), moleskin, bug repellent, and any personal prescriptions or medical items.

 

Nepal Entry Visa Procedures

Foreigners who intend to visit Nepal must hold a valid Passport(6 months) or any travel documents equivalent to a passport issued by the government for visiting a foreign country.

You can obtain the Nepal visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. And you can apply for the Nepal visa online now.

Note: Free Visa for Chinese citizens including HKSAR Passport holders.

Nepal Trekking Season’s

The two most pleasant seasons for trekking in Nepal are spring and autumn. The spring season is considered to be from March to May. During the spring months, flowers are in bloom in the forests so it can be quite beautiful though it can also be a bit cloudy, especially in the afternoon.  

The Autumn season is considered from September through November. In the autumn season, you will get the best mountain views, with clear skies usually all day long. The fall season is slightly cooler with average temperatures. 

December is also generally the driest month of the year. Trekking in Nepal is possible at any time of the year. It is worth remembering that we will get 75 percent of annual rainfall from mid-June through August. This period is considered the monsoon season. 

Winter in Nepal is considered December through February. These months are the coldest in temperatures depending on where you are. At higher altitudes in the Himalayas, temperatures will drop below freezing and it can be extremely cold at night.

A Typical Day of the Trekking

The trekking day begins early at around 6.30 AM in the morning with a cup of wake-up tea. Before breakfast, pack your duffel bag which is carried by porters by keeping some essential things in your daypack. After breakfast, we usually start a morning walk. After 3-4 hrs walking, we will stop for lunch. Allowing about 1 - 2 hours for lunch break then we continue the walk to the destination where we stay overnight.

We reach the teahouse/camp by afternoon, as the afternoon walk is generally shorter than the morning. Check-in the room and having afternoon tea, side trips, or other activities are generally organized. You can spend the afternoon as you wish then meet for dinner around 07:00 PM and sleep.

Geography of Nepal

Nepal covers a land area of 147,181SQKM, stretching 800 km from east to west and 90 to 230 km from north to south. Nepal is landlocked between China (including the Chinese autonomous region of Tibet) and India. Nepal has three geographic regions; the mountainous Himalayan belt (including 8 of the 14 highest mountain peaks in the world), the hill region, and the plains region.

Nepal contains the greatest altitude variation on earth, from the lowland Terai, at almost sea level to Mount Everest at 8848.87 meters. Nepal is divided into seven states and seventy-seven districts. The high Himalayas occupy 16% of the total land area of Nepal with elevations ranging from 4,000 m to above 8,848.87 m. 

This region accommodates eight of the highest peaks in the world; Mt. Everest (8848.87m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), Lhotse (8516m), Cho-Oyu (8201m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Makalu (8463m), Manaslu (8163m), and Annapurna I (8091m).

Currency in Nepal

Nepali Rupee notes come in Rupees 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 denominations. Coins come in Rs. 1 and 2 denominations. Foreign currencies must be exchanged only through banks or authorized money exchangers. Banks are usually open from 09:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and from 10.00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Fridays. Saturdays are closed.

Credit Cards: All major cards are accepted for tourist services. There is usually a 4% mark-up on top of the price.

Effects of Global Warming & Climate Change

Nepal is one of the most vulnerable countries in South Asia to climate change, yet it has limited capacity to address the impacts of climate change or to take advantage of the opportunities. It has a highly variable climate and fragile ecosystems. The Himalayan glaciers are retreating faster than any other major body of ice.

With climate change, climate variability, a driver of poverty in a country where 60% of the population is reliant on agriculture, will only increase. The monsoon rains are already more intense, but of shorter duration, and are arriving later, which has a devastating impact on the rice fields.

The Greater Himalaya region is the water tower of Asia. Nepal sits at a strategic point, in the headwaters of the Ganges basin. 500 million people live in this basin, which is one of the most flood-prone in the world. Currently, Nepal's Himalayan Rivers supply 70% of the dry season water in the Ganges and 30% of the peak floodwaters.

Nepal's potential for hydropower is 100 times its existing energy use. The current development of rivers is sub-optimal, focusing solely on hydro rather than also storing water in the summer to use for irrigation during the rest of the year and reduce flooding.

Clothing in Nepal

From April to the end of September, it is warm in Kathmandu. In Nepal, clothing for traveling purposes should be comfortable and lightweight. You can also wear longer shorts provided that it is weather-friendly. 

In the months of October to the end of March, days are usually warm and evenings are cool. Put on your summer clothes during the daytime but in the evening and night, it is advisable to carry a light jacket. 

The Winter season starts from December to February. One must be equipped with sufficient winter wears like down jackets, sweaters, trousers, etc to stay protected from the cold. In accordance with Nepali weather, you can have your clothes well-packed in your luggage or you can also purchase clothes of your choice and needs from the clothing stores in Kathmandu.

Health Issues Regarding Altitude Sickness

Those in good health should have no difficulty traveling to Nepal. But people with health conditions including asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, epilepsy, and cardiac problems should seek a doctor’s approval before planning a trip to Nepal.

Trekking and Climbing in Nepal involve high altitude and can be strenuous. A simple headache, fever, loss of appetite, or stomach disorders can happen before acclimatization. Altitude sickness, if not treated when symptoms first appear, can lead to death. Often known as AMS or Acute Mountain Sickness, it can ruin a Treks and Climbings and should be treated very seriously.

The Himalayan Mountains begin where other mountain ranges end.  As altitude increases, especially above 3,000 meters, the air becomes thinner, creating certain difficulties for the human body. Youth, strength, and fitness make no difference here. 

The only prevention is to give one's body time to adjust to high altitudes. Those who go too high too fast are liable to be victims of Acute Mountain Sickness.  To minimize its threat, we recommend following this advice:

01. Drink adequate fluids.  At 4,300 meters, for example, the body requires 3 to 4 liters of liquid a day.  At low altitudes try to drink at least 1 liter a day.

02. Accept the fact that you cannot go very high if your time is short.

03. Learn to recognize the symptoms of AMS: headache, nausea, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, fluid retention, and/or swelling of the body.  The cure is to climb no higher until the symptoms have disappeared.

04. Do not expect everyone in your group to acclimatize at the same rate.  If you experience such discomfort, tell the accompanying Best Nepal Trekking facilitators immediately.

05. For the sake of safety, if the trek leader deems it necessary to ask a participant who is suffering from AMS to descend, he will have the authority to do so even though it may go against the will of that participant.

People and Religions of Nepal

Nepalese people are mainly divided into two distinct groups, the Indo-Aryans and the Mangoloids. Since 2008AD, Nepal has been declared a secular country. The Hindu Temples and Buddhist Shrines are scattered all over the Kingdom. Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the Herald of Peace, and The Light of Asia. Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and Christians live together in harmony. And other nature worshippers, too, exist here.

The ethnic diversity and customs of Nepal make Nepal the most fascinating tourist destination in the world. Official statistics indicate that the Nepali population of around 35 million includes more than 90 ethnic groups speaking 100 different languages and dialects.

History of Nepal

Nepal has witnessed many rulers and dynasties play contributing roles in molding Nepal to present-day Modern Nepal. Kirat ruled Nepal from the 9th century BC to the 1st century AD Later Lichchhavis took over Karin from the 3rd to 13th century and then was followed by Thakuri belonging to the Malla dynasty.

Then the Shah Dynasty held the reign. Prithvi Narayan Shah is solely responsible for today’s modern-day Nepal for he is the one who united different kingdoms into one single nation in 1769. In 1846, the Kot massacre led by Jung Bahadur Rana back-seated the power of the monarchy and made the Rana regime more powerful. In 1950 Tribhuvan with the support from India restored monarchy.

A coalition government comprising the Nepali Congress Party and the Ranas was thereafter installed with the promise of free elections in 1952. In 1960, Mahindra, son of Tribhuvan tactically established the Panchayat system, meaning ‘five councils system,' by engineering a coup, declaring a new constitution, imprisoning all the leaders of the then government, and enforcing a ban on all political activities.

People’s movement of 1990 opened up a new chapter for a decade of democracy in Nepal which led to multiparty democracy with a constitutional monarchy. Democracy came with a heavy price leading to incompetent political leaders, political conflicts, Maoist insurgency, corruption, and downfall in the national economy. 

The royal family massacre in 2001 left the whole world in complete shock. Gyanendra was crowned Nepal’s king after his brother, Birendra’s assassination. With the advent of 2006, all major political parties committed to reform their past mistakes and Maoist rebels came together with the support from Nepali people and jointly went on several days of strikes to restore democracy. Finally, Gyanendra Shah handed over the political power to the Nepali people, and democracy was once again restored in Nepal. Then Maoists became the biggest political party in Nepal's 2008 election. Nepal recently(September 2015) declared a new constitution for the country.

Shopping in Nepal

In the major cities of Nepal, like Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur, and Pokhara, you will find well-resourced shopping malls. From clothes, shoes, accessories, sportswear, electronic goods, cosmetics, food, and decoration items to kitchen wares you can purchase any goods. In Nepal shopping for both local and imported goods is possible. Most shops and clothing stores have fixed prices tagged along with their goods.

But in the case of small shops, you can bargain the prices for purchasing goods. While shopping in Nepal it is advisable to carry Nepali currency in cash as most of the shops only accept cash. In Kathmandu, Thamel, New-road, and Durbar-Marg are the most popular Shopping centers.

What Foods You Will Expect In Nepal

Kathmandu is a paradise for food lovers. Besides Nepali food, Nepal restaurants here serve varieties of hygienic delicacies from Indian, Chinese, Tibetan, Japanese, Italian, Australian, Russian, Korean, Mexican, Thai, etc to continental at a remarkably reasonable price. If you desire to lead a Nepali lifestyle during your stay in Nepal, then there are also some restaurants serving pure Nepali cuisine (Dal Bhat) which comprises steamed rice, lentil soup, and varieties of vegetables/non-vegetable curries.

Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, is well known for many excellent restaurants, cafés, and pubs. Pokhara also has numerous restaurants that serve every kind of delicacy complementing your taste. The foods in the mountains (trekking routes) are also fresh, hygienic, and delicious.

Travel Insurance For Traveling in Nepal

Travel insurance is not included in the trip price. It is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance prior to your trek. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accidents, medical expenses, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue), and personal liability. We also recommend that it cover trip cancellation, loss of luggage and personal effects.

Hotels in Nepal

Nepal offers a wide range of accommodations, from 5-star luxury hotels to budget-priced guesthouses. Top hotel in Nepal gives you high-quality services. Whatever your requirements are, Nepal hotels can meet them all.

Best Nepal Trekking P(LTD), is always recommend the best Hotels in Nepal for your holidays.

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Challenges

Generally short treks of duration not more than 10 days with average walking of 4-6 hours a day with maximum altitude gain of 3500m. Suitable for those people who do not have any previous trekking experience, but still want to see the country side, himalayan scenery, meet and interact with local culture.
The treks covering altitude of 4500m with some longer and shorter walks of 6-7 hrs a day. Moderate treks are with duration of 10 days to 2 weeks in the mountains, suits for people of all ages with good physical fitness.
The trek involves some steep ascents and descents, throughout high passes and involving glacier crossings. Usually you will trek 6 to 8 hours a day. The highest elevation reached is around 5500m & trekking duration can be 2-3 weeks.
This grade will involves the altitude ranges above 5500m to 6000m plus with 7 hrs of walking a day. It covering very remote areas, walking over snow covered high passes with the need of climbing equipment.

Dates and Booking

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Elevation Chart