Poonhill Trek
Duration:
8 Days
Max Altitude:
3210m
Country:
Nepal
Activity:
Hiking & Trekking
Best Season:
Sept-Nov-March-May
Difficulty:
Easy
Easy
- Suitable for beginners with no prior trekking experience.
- Well-maintained trails, no technical skills required.
- Altitude up to 3,000 meters.
- Walking time up to 5 hours per day.
An easygoing family-style adventure gently brings you from the world’s deepest valley to the widely loved Poon Hill Trekking, looking out upon the massive Annapurna range. Whether you are traveling with kids, or are looking for a relaxing way to experience the Himalayas without strenuous hiking, this trek will be right up your alley!
The Poon Hill trek is a highlight reel of Himalayan grandeur, offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu from the iconic Poon Hill viewpoint. This “Annapurna Panorama” trek is a naturalist’s paradise, showcasing a remarkable blend of climate and biodiversity. Trek through rhododendron forests, explore traditional villages, and witness the dramatic landscape of the Kali Gandaki gorge. The trek culminates in the awe- inspiring sight of sunrise painting the snow-capped peaks, with Machhapuchhre’s distinctive silhouette standing out against the horizon.
Trip Highlight
- Drive to Pokhara via landscape scenery along the edge of Trisuli river.
- Mesmerizing sunrise views over the mighty Himalayas from Poon Hill.
- Experience the Gurung culture in Ghandruk village.
- Walk through colorful rhododendron forest and water’s fall.
- Spectacular views of the mighty Dhaulagiri(7 th highest mountain in the world)and Annapurna’s.
Guidelines Itinerary
Suggested itinerary: If itinerary is not suitable to your needs then no problems, we can tailor any of our itineraries or build a trip from scratch to meet your needs and preferences.
Day 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu
- 1,350m/4,429ft
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Step By Step Treks & Adventure will warmly welcome you. You’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and rest. In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant and colorful streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub, immersing yourself in the local Nepali culture and enjoying traditional food and drinks.
Day 2 - Kathmandu Sightseeing (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
Today is dedicated to exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage of Kathmandu. You’ll embark on a guided tour of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square, showcasing ancient architectural prowess; Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, offering panoramic city views; Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site; and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
Day 3 - Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Ulleri
- 2,050m/6,726ft
An early morning flight takes you to Pokhara, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas (opt for a seat on the right side of the plane). Upon arrival, you’ll drive to Ulleri via Nayapool, the starting point of your trek. The journey involves traversing subtropical valley forests and carved trails along cliffs.
Day 4 - Trek Ulleri to Ghorepani
- 2,850m/9,351ft
After breakfast, you’ll ascend towards Ghorepani, a significant trading post turned trekking stop. Ghorepani, meaning ‘horse-water’ in Nepali, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna South and Nilgiri. The change in altitude will become noticeable, especially in the cooler evenings.
Day 5 - Ghorepani to Tadapani via Poon Hill
- 3,210m/10,529ft
An early morning hike to Poon Hill rewards you with a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. This viewpoint also offers stunning views of Mustang, Pokhara, and over 20 high mountain peaks. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, you’ll trek through rhododendron forests and past waterfalls to Tadapani.
Day 6 - Tadapani to Ghandruk, Drive to Pokhara
- 1,940m/6,360ft
The day starts with a steep descent through dense rhododendron forests, which become vibrant gardens when the flowers are in bloom. You’ll reach Ghandruk, a Gurung village with stone houses, offering close-up views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, and Hiunchuli. You’ll experience the local Gurung culture and visit a museum before driving back to Pokhara in the afternoon.
Day 7 - Pokhara Sightseeing, Fly to Kathmandu
In the morning, you’ll enjoy sightseeing in Pokhara, visiting Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, the World Peace Pagoda, and other local attractions. In the afternoon, you’ll take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for leisure, shopping, or exploring missed landmarks. A farewell dinner celebrates the successful completion of your trek.
Day 8 - Final Departure
Your adventure concludes with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight, filled with lasting memories of your Poon Hill trek.
Costs Included in Your Package
- Airport Assistance:
- Personalized assistance at the International Airport by a Step By Step Treks & Adventures representative (your guide) upon arrival and departure, as per your flight details.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu:
- Three nights in a deluxe hotel in Kathmandu, including breakfast.
- Accommodation in Pokhara:
- One night in a deluxe hotel in Pokhara, including breakfast.
- Meals During the Trek:
- Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dianner or soups).
- Three times a tea, coffee or hot drinks.
- Accommodation During the Trek:
- Trekking lodge (tea house) accommodation.
- Permits & Paperwork:
- All necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Permit
- Tims Card
- Domestic Flights & Transfers:
- Two way flight from Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu.
- Trekking Staff:
- A highly experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly English-speaking guide, trained and licensed by the Government. The guide’s salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance are covered.
- Strong and reliable Sherpa porters (one porter for every two trekkers) with proper safety and trekking equipment. Their salary, food, accommodation, and insurance are covered.
- Assistant guide provided for groups of five or more.
- Safety & Health Support:
- Comprehensive first-aid medical kit.
- Emergency helicopter evacuation assistance (to be covered by your travel insurance company).
- Oxygen meter to check pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily—essential for monitoring altitude sickness (AMS) symptoms.
- Trekking Gear & Extras:
- Use of a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if needed, to be returned after the trek).
- Step By Step Treks & Adventures T-shirt.
- Trip achievement certificate upon successful trek completion.
- Kathmandu Sightseeing:
- A guided city tour in Kathmandu with a private car or jeep.
- Government Taxes & Fees:
- All necessary government taxes and official expenses.
- Farewell dinner
Costs Not Included
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara:
- Lunch and dinner while staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara (25-35 USD per a day)
- Visa Fees for Nepal:
Easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu):
- $30 USD for a 15-day visa
- $50 USD for a 30-day visa
- $125 USD for a 90-day visa
- Personal Travel & Medical Insurance.
- International Airfare.
- Personal Expenses:
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, and extra food purchased along the trek or in the tea houses.
- Desserts and sweet items (chocolates, cakes, pies, puddings, etc.).
- Hot showers and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Trekking Staff Tips:
- Tips for your guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).
- Sightseeing Entry Fees in Kathmandu:
- Monument entrance fees ($10/15 USD per person per a spot).
- Early Return Policy:
- If you return early from the trek due to illness or other reasons, the money paid for flights, hotels, food, and accommodation is non-refundable
- Any additional expenses incurred in Kathmandu (such as accommodation and meals) must be covered by the trekker.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
MAP
How Your Adventure Makes a Difference
Climate Action in the Himalayas:
Supporting tree planting and carbon offsetting initiatives to reduce our environmental impact.
Expanding Education Access
Providing textbooks, stationery, and learning resources to rural schools in Nepal.
School Renovation
Rebuilding and improving schools to create safe, supportive learning environments for vulnerable children in rural Nepal
Community Empowerment
Equipping communities with vocational training in sustainable agriculture and tourism, fostering economic independence
Transparent Giving
100% of our trip-based commissions go to FourPOSE Charity, driving real and lasting social change.
Essential Info
Nepal Tourist Visa – Entry & Regulations
Passports & Visas for Nepal
All travelers entering Nepal require a valid passport with at least six months validity and a full blank page for the visa stamp. A Nepal tourist visa is required and must be paid for in cash upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or at border entry points. You will also need a passport-sized photo (photo booths are available at the airport if needed).
Current Visa Fees (Single-Entry Tourist Visa):
- 15 Days – $30 USD
- 30 Days – $50 USD
- 90 Days – $125 USD
Visa extensions are available for $3–5 per day, with a minimum charge of $30 for 15 days or less. Nationals of SAARC countries (except India) can obtain a Gratis (Free) 30-day Visa, but extensions follow standard visa rules. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal. For full visa details, visit Nepal’s official immigration website.
Best Trekking & Tour Seasons in Nepal
Nepal’s trekking seasons vary based on weather conditions and altitude. Understanding the best times to trek helps ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
Spring Trekking (March–May)
Spring is a fantastic season for trekking with warmer temperatures at higher altitudes and rhododendron forests in full bloom. It is also a peak season for mountaineering expeditions.
Summer & Monsoon Season (June–Mid-September)
The monsoon season brings heavy rain and humidity, making most trekking routes challenging. However, Upper Mustang and Manaslu remain great options as they fall in rain-shadow areas and receive less rainfall.
Autumn Trekking (Mid-September–November)
This is the best trekking season in Nepal, with clear skies, stunning mountain views, and stable weather. Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley treks are most popular during this time.
Winter Trekking (December–February)
Winter trekking is possible but very cold at higher elevations. Lower-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill and Helambu are great choices for winter trekking.
Altitude Sickness & Prevention
Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) is common above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) due to lower oxygen levels. Symptoms include:
- Headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
- Fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and confusion
- Shortness of breath and loss of appetite
Prevention Tips:
✔Acclimatize properly – Follow the rule: climb high, sleep low
✔Stay hydrated – Drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily
✔Avoid alcohol & sleeping pills – These worsen AMS symptoms
✔Ascend gradually – Over 3,000m, increase altitude by 300m per day
✔Consider medication – Diamox (Acetazolamide) 125mg may help prevent AMS
Golden Rules for AMS:
- Recognize symptoms early and stop ascending if mild AMS develops
- If symptoms worsen, descend immediately
- Never leave a teammate behind unattended
Essential Trekking Equipment & Packing List
Having the right gear is crucial for comfort and safety. Most trekking equipment can be bought or rented in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Must-Have Gear:
Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof shell
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots, thick socks, and camp shoes
Accessories: Sunglasses, gloves, hat, trekking poles
Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bag rated to -10°C to -20°C
Backpack: Daypack with waterproof cover
First Aid Kit: Diamox, pain relievers, blister treatment, personal medication
Hydration & Snacks: Water bottles, energy bars, and hydration tablets.
Tea House Lodging & Trekking Food in Nepal
Tea houses are small guesthouses found along trekking routes, providing basic accommodation and meals.
Accommodation:
- Twin-sharing rooms with simple beds and blankets
- Shared bathrooms with either squat or western-style toilets
- Dining areas with a communal heater (common in higher elevations)
- Limited electricity & Wi-Fi – Charging devices may cost extra
Meals & Beverages:
- Dal Bhat – Traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentils, and vegetable curry
- Soups & Noodles – Garlic soup, Sherpa stew, and fried noodles
- Breakfast Options – Porridge, pancakes, Tibetan bread, eggs
- Tea & Coffee – Black tea, milk tea, hot chocolate, and herbal tea
- Limited beverages – Beer and soft drinks available at extra cost
Travel & Trekking Insurance
Trekking in Nepal involves risks, so comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for high-altitude treks.
Insurance Coverage Should Include:
- Medical emergencies & helicopter evacuation (above 5,600m)
- Trip cancellations, delays & lost baggage
- Personal accident & repatriation
Recommended Insurance Providers:
Trekking Grades – Choosing the Right Trek
Nepal treks are categorized by difficulty based on altitude, terrain, and trekking duration.
Trek Difficulty Levels:
🔹 Easy Treks (Grade 1) – Suitable for beginners, below 3,000m, 4–5 hours walking per day (e.g., Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley)
🔹 Moderate Treks (Grade 2) – Slightly challenging, reaching 3,500m, 5–6 hours walking per day (e.g., Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal)
🔹 Strenuous Treks (Grade 3) – High-altitude treks above 4,000m, requiring prior trekking experience (e.g., Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit)
🔹 Very Strenuous Treks (Grade 4–5) – Remote, high-altitude expeditions over 5,500m (e.g., Everest Three Passes, Island Peak Climb)
Final Thoughts
At Step By Step Adventure with Purpose, we are committed to providing safe, sustainable, and meaningful travel experiences. Whether you are trekking in the Himalayas, exploring Nepal’s rich culture, or contributing to local communities through FourPOSE Charity, every journey with us leaves a positive impact.
Walk. Explore. Experience. Give Back.
Start Planning Our Trip
Step by Step have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
- Call +977 9846149129
- or fill in our enquiry form
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