Essential items include: Trekking boots (comfortable and waterproof) Warm layers (fleece/down jacket) Rain jacket Sleeping bag Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) Water bottle & purification tablets Toiletries & small towel Camera or smartphone for photos

Poon Hill Trek – NIRVANA JOURNEYS

Q: How Difficult is the 4-Day Poon Hill Trek?

The trek is moderate in difficulty. It involves daily walks of 5–7 hours on uphill and downhill trails. There are no technical sections, making it ideal for beginners with average fitness.

Q: Do I Need to Be Fit for the Trek?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a good level of physical fitness helps. Doing regular walking, jogging, or hiking before the trek will improve your comfort and endurance on the trail.

Q: What is the Best Time to Trek Poon Hill?

Spring (March–May): Clear skies, warm weather, and blooming rhododendrons. Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, great mountain visibility, and ideal temperatures.

Q: Do I Need a Guide and Porter?

Guide: Not mandatory, but highly recommended, especially for first-time trekkers. Guides offer navigation help, cultural insight, and safety support. Porter: Optional but helpful to carry your backpack, making the trek less physically demanding.

Q: Can Beginners Do the Poon Hill Trek?

Yes! It’s one of Nepal’s most beginner-friendly treks. As long as you're in decent health and enjoy walking, you can complete it.

Q: How Long Does the Trek Take?

The trek takes 4 days, starting from Ulleri and ending in Kande. It’s a short and scenic route through Annapurna villages, with a sunrise highlight from Poon Hill at 3210 meters.

Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge/Tea House
Language
English
Transportation
Private/Public Vehicle
Arrival City
Pokhara
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Free Cancellation
30% Cancellation Charge (Personal Reason)
Guide
Guided Tour
Insurance Coverage
Covered
Maximum Altitude
3210 m
Tour Availability
Available
Walking Hours
5 – 6 hrs Trek
Trip Type
Annapurna Region, Hiking in Nepal
Difficulty
Easy

Overview

Useful Info

Outline Itinerary

Map

Detail Itinerary

Includes & Excludes

FAQs

Overview

Useful Info

Outline Itinerary

Map

Detail Itinerary

Includes & Excludes

FAQs

Overview

Nepal is renowned for its trekking adventures, and if you’re short on time but eager to experience the Himalayas, the 4-day Poonhill Trek is an ideal choice. This trek, part of the popular Annapurna region, reaches its highest point at Poon Hill (3,210 meters) and is perfect for those with average physical fitness. It’s also safe for children, with minimal risk of altitude sickness.

The scenery along the route is both diverse and breathtaking, transitioning from terraced lowlands to lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. As you ascend, the views of the mountains become increasingly stunning. The early morning sunrise from Poon Hill is a highlight, offering panoramic views that make the trek unforgettable.

Accessible year-round and easily reached from Pokhara, this trek partially follows the Annapurna Base Camp trail before diverting at Tadapani. It’s a short and straightforward journey that provides a close-up experience of Himalayan culture and lifestyle.

Trip Highlights

Witness the spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill at 3,210 meters.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna, and other majestic Himalayan peaks.
Explore the traditional villages of Ghandruk and Ulleri, among the largest in the region.
Visit cultural landmarks including monasteries, temples, and the Gurung Museum.
Walk past lush rice terraces and cascading waterfalls along the scenic trail.
Relax and explore the vibrant lake city of Pokhara, the gateway to the trek.

Useful Info

Why the 4-Day Poon Hill Trek is a Must-Do

1. Quick Access and Time-Friendly
Ideal for travelers short on time, this trek offers the Himalayan experience in just four days. Starting from Pokhara, it reaches a manageable altitude of 3,210 meters at Poon Hill—making it suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness.
2. Breathtaking Mountain Vistas
Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare without high-altitude trekking or technical skills. The golden sunrise from Poon Hill is an unforgettable highlight.
3. Rich Cultural Experience
Pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghandruk and Ulleri. Interact with locals, explore monasteries, temples, and learn about Himalayan lifestyles and traditions.
4. Manageable Difficulty
With a moderate elevation and steady pacing, the trek is beginner-friendly. Although the climb to Ghorepani involves 3,381 stone steps, the overall route is approachable for most trekkers.
5. Diverse Nature and Wildlife
Hike through rhododendron forests, oak groves, and terraced fields within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Spot Himalayan pheasants, mountain goats, monkeys, and colorful orchids along the way.

Best Seasons to Go

Spring (Mar–May): Clear skies and blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Crisp weather, clear mountain views.

Difficulty Level

Easy to moderate. The main challenge is the steep stone staircase to Ghorepani. Fit beginners can complete the trek in 4 days, while others may prefer a 5–7 day itinerary for a more relaxed pace.

Packing Essentials

Waterproof hiking boots
Flip-flops for tea houses
Layered clothing
Trekking poles
Sleeping bag with liner
Sunscreen (high SPF)
Insect repellent (especially for monsoon season)

Final Word

The 4-day Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short treks—perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. With epic sunrise views, authentic village experiences, and serene forest trails, it delivers the full Himalayan package in just a few unforgettable days.

Day 01 :

Drive from Pokhara to Ulleri and Trek to Ghorepani

Drive Duration: ~1.5 hours to Nayapul + 1 hour to Ulleri
Trek Duration: ~4–5 hours
Accommodation: Tea House in Ghorepani

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, taking approximately 1.5 hours through verdant valleys and charming rural landscapes. From Nayapul, continue with a jeep ride up to Ulleri (1520m), where the real trek begins.

The trail from Ulleri is steep and invigorating, ascending through lush rhododendron forests, stone staircases, and traditional Magar villages. As you gain altitude, you'll be rewarded with glimpses of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, a preview of the majestic sights ahead.

By late afternoon, you’ll reach Ghorepani (2880m), a serene village tucked inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. Relax in a cozy tea house, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and prepare for the early morning hike to Poon Hill—one of the highlights of the trek.

Day 02 :

Hike to Poonhill for sunrise and trek to Ghandruk

Hiking Duration: ~7–8 hours
Accommodation: Tea House in Ghandruk

Start your day early with a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3210m), one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Annapurna region. As the first rays of sunlight break across the horizon, watch the Himalayan giants—Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and more—glow in golden hues. This breathtaking sunrise is a favorite among trekkers and photographers alike.

After soaking in the views and capturing stunning photos, return to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast before setting off for your next destination.

The trek continues with a scenic descent through lush rhododendron and oak forests, teeming with birds and occasional wildlife, eventually leading to Ghandruk (1950m)—a picturesque Gurung village renowned for its rich culture and panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

Spend the evening at a cozy tea house, enjoying the warmth of Gurung hospitality and immersing yourself in the traditional charm of this Himalayan settlement.

Day 03 :

Trek to Tolka

Hiking Duration: ~5–6 hours
Accommodation: Tea House in Tolka

After a warm breakfast in Ghandruk, begin your day’s journey with a scenic trek through terraced farmlands and dense forests, following a serene path toward Landruk—another charming village nestled amidst the Annapurna region. Along the way, enjoy tranquil views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges, and experience the authentic rural lifestyle of the locals.

Take a break in Landruk, where you can rest and admire the expansive vistas of the valley and distant mountains.

From Landruk, the trail gently ascends through vibrant forests and small settlements, eventually leading to the peaceful village of Tolka (1700m). This quiet and less-crowded destination offers incredible views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, making it a perfect place to unwind after a fulfilling day of trekking.

Spend the evening relaxing in a cozy tea house, surrounded by the calm atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the local community.

Day 04 :

Trek to Kande via Australian Camp and drive to Pokhara

Hiking Duration: ~4–5 hours (trek) + drive to Pokhara
Accommodation: N/A (arrival in Pokhara)

On the final day, you will trek from Tolka to Australian Camp, a scenic high-altitude vantage point renowned for its panoramic views of the Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and the Pokhara Valley. The trail gently ascends through lush, dense forests alive with birdsong, offering a peaceful and refreshing walk.

Spend some time soaking in the spectacular vistas at Australian Camp, capturing your last memories of the Annapurna mountains.

Afterwards, descend towards Kande, where a private vehicle awaits to take you back to Pokhara (about a 1-hour drive).

Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy a relaxing evening by the lakeside, reflecting on the awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences of your Poon Hill adventure.

FAQs

Expand all

How Difficult is the 4-Day Poon Hill Trek?

The trek is moderate in difficulty. It involves daily walks of 5–7 hours on uphill and downhill trails. There are no technical sections, making it ideal for beginners with average fitness.

Do I Need to Be Fit for the Trek?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a good level of physical fitness helps. Doing regular walking, jogging, or hiking before the trek will improve your comfort and endurance on the trail.

What is the Best Time to Trek Poon Hill?

Spring (March–May): Clear skies, warm weather, and blooming rhododendrons.

Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, great mountain visibility, and ideal temperatures.

Do I Need a Guide and Porter?

Guide: Not mandatory, but highly recommended, especially for first-time trekkers. Guides offer navigation help, cultural insight, and safety support.
Porter: Optional but helpful to carry your backpack, making the trek less physically demanding.

Can Beginners Do the Poon Hill Trek?

Yes! It’s one of Nepal’s most beginner-friendly treks. As long as you’re in decent health and enjoy walking, you can complete it.

What Should I Pack?

Essential items include:

Trekking boots (comfortable and waterproof)
Warm layers (fleece/down jacket)
Rain jacket
Sleeping bag
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Water bottle & purification tablets
Toiletries & small towel
Camera or smartphone for photos

How Much Does the Trek Cost?

Cost varies by group size and package.
On average, expect to pay USD $255 to $435.
Usually includes permits, meals, accommodation, guide, and porter.

How Long Does the Trek Take?

The trek takes 4 days, starting from Ulleri and ending in Kande. It’s a short and scenic route through Annapurna villages, with a sunrise highlight from Poon Hill at 3210 meters.