First-Timers Trek in Nepal: Poon Hill Trek

COL-92 / 8-day trip / Grade: T2

Overview

First-Timers Trek in Nepal: Poon Hill Trek

The Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular and beginner-friendly treks, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, combined with beautiful forests, charming villages, and a glimpse into local culture.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

Perfect for beginners: Gradual ascent, manageable trekking hours, and comfortable tea house stays.
Scenic diversity: Stunning mountain vistas, vibrant villages, and serene forests.
Cultural immersion: Opportunities to interact with locals and experience Nepali traditions.

Would you like a more detailed breakdown (e.g., daily gear list, elevation changes) or modifications to this itinerary?

Day 1	Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Day 2	Fly to Pokhara (820 m) and Drive to Nayapul (1,070 m) – Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,570 m)
Day 3	Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,870 m)
Day 4	Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m) – Trek to Tadapani (2,630 m)
Day 5	Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940 m)
Day 6	Ghandruk to Nayapul (1,070 m) – Drive to Pokhara
Day 7	Fly Back to Kathmandu
Day 8	Departure Day

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Highlights: Explore the bustling streets of Thamel, visit historic sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Activities: Trek briefing, equipment preparation, and meeting with your guide.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Meals: Dinner (welcome meal with traditional Nepali cuisine).

Day 2: Fly to Pokhara (820 m) and Drive to Nayapul (1,070 m) – Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,570 m)

Travel Time: 25-minute flight to Pokhara, followed by a 2-hour drive to Nayapul.
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours.
Trail Highlights: Walk along the Modi Khola River, pass through picturesque villages like Birethanti and lush rice fields.
Accommodation: Tea house in Tikhedhunga.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 3: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,870 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours (including breaks).
Trail Highlights: Climb the iconic Ulleri stairs (around 3,200 stone steps), trek through rhododendron forests, and enjoy occasional views of Annapurna peaks.
Accommodation: Tea house in Ghorepani.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m) – Trek to Tadapani (2,630 m)

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours.
Highlights:
- Early morning hike (45 minutes) to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
- Trek through serene forests and small streams on the way to Tadapani.
Accommodation: Tea house in Tadapani.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940 m)

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours.
Trail Highlights:
- A relatively easy descent through lush forests with occasional bird sightings.
- Explore Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village known for its traditional culture and stunning views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Activities: Visit the Gurung Museum and learn about local culture.
Accommodation: Tea house in Ghandruk.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6: Ghandruk to Nayapul (1,070 m) – Drive to Pokhara

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours.
Trail Highlights: Descend through forests and terraced fields, enjoying the serene landscapes.
Travel Time: 2-hour drive back to Pokhara.
Activities in Pokhara: Boating on Phewa Lake, visiting Davis Falls, or relaxing by the lakeside.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 7: Fly Back to Kathmandu

Travel Time: 25-minute flight.
Optional Activities: Visit Bhaktapur or Patan, or enjoy some last-minute shopping in Thamel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (depending on departure schedule).
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (farewell meal).