- 3 Days
- 54 KM
- 6-7 hrs
- Spring/Autumn
- Public/Private Vehicle
- Moderate
- Tea Houses/ Lodges
- Poon Hill
- 3210 m
Overview
Poon Hill Trek offers mesmerizing views of the awe-inspiring vistas of the Annapurna Region. This enchanting trekking destination has managed to capture the attention of travelers around the world because of its pristine beauty.
The trek takes you to the picturesque places of the Annapurna Region and presents beautiful views of Annapurna I (8091 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m), Nilgiri (7061 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m) and many other surrounding mountains. The stunning sceneries of lush hills, charming traditional villages, and waterfalls can be seen during the journey. The trail is well marked and passes through Gurung and Magar Villages, providing you a chance to witness their way of life and unique culture.
The journey to Poon Hill starts with an exciting drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu. You will enjoy the scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, where you will begin the trek heading toward Tikhedhunga. You will pass through places like Ulleri, Ghorepani and finally hike to Poon Hill for mesmerizing views of snow-clad peaks and sunrise. The trek also takes you to the Ghandruk Village, which is a popular tourist destination of Nepal that rewards you with the beautiful views of Annapurna South (7219 m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Gangapurna (7455 m). Poon Hill Trek presents a journey full of beautiful sceneries and enriching cultural experiences and is considered one of the must-visit places for short-term treks. The trek is also known as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Best Time for Poon Hill Trek
Spring Season (March, April, and May) and Autumn (September, October, and November) are considered the best time for Poon Hill Trek. During the spring, the weather is mild, and the environment is fresh. The trails are decorated with blooming rhododendrons, which makes the whole environment vibrant. The stunning views of snow-capped mountains, lush hills, and forests filled with beautiful blooming flowers can be seen during the springtime, which has made it stand out as one of the best times to embark on the journey.
Similarly, the autumn season is also one of the preferred times to embark on Poon Hill Trek. The weather is moderate and delightful during the autumn season, and you will get to see the crystal-clear views of snow-capped mountains. The humidity level is low and the air is crisp, which offers you the most pleasant trekking environment. The chances of rainfall are minimal, and you will have a comfortable journey trekking in favorable trail conditions.
During the Summer/ Monsoon season (June, July, and August), the trails can get slippery and muddy due to the rainfall, which can make traversing relatively challenging. In addition, the leeches can be found in forested areas, which can create unpleasant experiences for trekkers. However, the scenery is beautiful in the summer/monsoon season. When the weather clears after the rainfall, the stunning views of the lush surroundings and mountains can be seen, which is fascinating. The beautiful cloud formations and misty, snowy peaks are the unique scenery that can be seen in the summer/ monsoon season. You can get a chance to trek in a tranquil environment as there will be fewer crowds on the trail compared to the peak seasons. So, if you are planning to embark on the trek in the summer/ monsoon season, you need to be well-informed about the challenges that come along and be prepared accordingly.
The winter season (December, January, and February) presents the most clear and beautiful views of snow-covered mountains. The region is the coldest in the winter season, and you need to be dressed in layers to stay warm throughout the journey. Some sections of the trail are covered with snow so you have to be careful while traversing through such paths. With proper preparation and being well-equipped with all important items, the trek is doable in the winter season, too.
Every season is unique and provides you with different experiences. As getting a chance to trek in favorable trail conditions offers the maximum perks, it is highly recommended to go trekking in peak season which will elevate your traveling experiences.
Highlights of Poon Hill Trek
- Scenic drive between Kathmandu and Pokhara in a comfortable tourist bus.
- Pass through Gurung and Magar villages and experience the local culture and warm reception.
- Sunrise view from Poon Hill.
- Beautiful views of mountains such as Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and many others
- Explore Ghandruk Village
- Cross thrilling suspension bridges along the trail.