Detail guide and information of Poon Hill Trek in Nepal
The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most recognized, shortest, easiest, and cheapest hiking routes in Nepal. This hike, which is situated in the Annapurna area, is well-known for exploring the central Himalayan foothills. Traveling through distinctive communities that provide stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs The route begins from Pokhara and travels through stunning oak and rhododendron forests, rolling hills; Buddhist temples; freezing waterfalls; steep gorges; and hidden valleys.
The Poon Hill Trek is without a doubt the shortest walk I’ve ever done in Nepal. Since it was initially made available to tourists in 1977, this journey has rightfully been acclaimed as among the greatest in the world. In the spring, when the mountainsides are covered in a shower of rhododendron blooms, it is extremely beautiful. At the completion of each day of exploration, the richness of traditional culture and the friendliness of the locals may undoubtedly help to calm an exhausted mind or relax aching legs. This quick but difficult trip is the ideal way to experience a distinctive Himalayan adventure.
I’m going to give facts and guidelines in this blog that are totally based on my experience on the Poon Hill trek. Come along as we leave for a quick weekend vacation to the stunning Ghorepani Poon Hill highlands.
Poon Hill trek facts
Distance: 49 kilometers (25 miles).
Time required: 3-4 days
Total ascent: 3000 m
Total descent: 1996 m
Highest point: poon hill peak, 3331 m
Permits: TIMS card and Annapurna Sanctuary permit.
Accommodation: Guesthouses
Poon Hill Trek Guide: Itinerary
Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Ulleri to Pokhara (by bus)
Trips begin with a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara . The flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes around 30 minutes, during which travelers are treated to a magnificent aerial view of the Himalayan mountain range.
Alternatively, you might take a tourist bus if you want to stick to your budget. The 210-mile journey by bus, which might take up to 7-8 hours, will get you to Pokhara. As you pass the gorgeous Himalayas and river valley, the trip itself is a special experience. We visited the lakeside area shortly after leaving the airport, had breakfast, and left Pokhara in the direction of Ulleri.
Afterwards, we drove to Ulleri from Pokhara in around 4 hours by road. After over 15 minutes of steep walking, we checked into a guest house at Ulleri.
Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani
Day 2 started with a spectacular view of Annapurna South and Huanchuli. We departed the lodge to begin our day’s climb in the direction of Gorepani. We ascended 1,400 meters to the picturesque village of Ghorepani. After a 6-7-hour gentle climb, we cherished the experience of traversing a waterfall, beautiful forest, and vibrant bridge.
Day 3 Hike to Poon Hill
On Day 3, we hike up to Poon Hill (3210 m). It was worth the journey to get there and see the expansive vista of the surroundings. We enjoyed the breathtaking morning view from the renowned Poon hill and returned back to Phokhara.
Poon Hill provides a panoramic view of Mt. Nilgiri (6940 m), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6441 m), Mt. Machapuchre (6993 m), Mt. Annapurna South (7219 m), Mt. Mardi Himal (5587 m), Mt. Annapurna I (8091 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7937 m), and Mt. (6931 m).
Day 4 return back to Kathmandu (By Air)
After all the fun and incredible mountain scenery, we eventually travel back to Kathmandu.
The Best Season to Visit Poon Hill Trek
You may visit Poon Hill Trekking at any time of year because it is lower in altitude than other treks. Avoid the winter’s peak, though; it may be exceedingly cold and snowy. But the months of March, April, and September through October are the best for trekking the Ghorepani Poon hill trip. There won’t be much snow or rain during this period, and the temperature will be pleasant.
Food and Accommodation
On the way, you’ll pass by a lot of guest rooms and tea houses. Even some homestays provide western meals, hot showers, and wifi services. You spend every night at wonderful, tiny tea houses in Nepal, complete with delicious cuisine and local beer.
Cost and Guide
Poon Hill’s trek will cost you between $250 and $280 per person, including all the facilities. I believe it to be the most affordable trek in Nepal. You may complete the trek without a guide or porter because it is simple. However, hiring a guide will only add $20 to your daily budget, which is reasonable. Nevertheless, you should pay more than what I have mentioned if you decide to take any other route starting from Poon Hill.
Intresting Fact about Poon Hill Trek
You can combine your route with well-known trekking routes like the ABC Trek and Mardi Himal Trek if you feel like hiking further and exploring another route. Many trekkers choose to combine these two well-traveled routes. After reaching Tadapani on the Poon Hill trip, you proceed on the ABC trek from Chhomrong. The trek will take you 8–9 days to complete. In the other hand, you can combine your journey with the Mardi Himal trek to make it longer. You go the whole length of the Poon Hill trip to Ghandruk, after which you continue on the Mardi Himal path via Landruk, a settlement on the other side of the river.
Opinion
The end of a season trek through Nepal was this 4-day backpacking adventure. We trekked across the Annapurna mountain range’s foothills while keeping our eyes focused on Poon Hil, staying in the villages of Hile, Gandruk, Gorepani, and Tadapani. After a long break, the winter hiking expedition was the ideal way for me to restart.
The best decision I made was to embark on the 4-day Poon Hill Trek in Nepal’s Annapurna Conservation Area. For people who are new to hiking and those who want to experience Nepali hiking, it’s a perfect route to go. The path is clearly defined, and the journey may be completed in just 3 to 4 days. There are a lot of hotels and restaurants along the route, as well as lots of people. Therefore, there is no need to be concerned about getting lost or having trouble finding a place to stay or eat. I advise hikers, especially beginners, to hike and explore the beautiful place. Even though you can completely trek solo without a guide, it’s a perfect start for the trekkers. So go for it!