Day 01: Drive to Ulleri (1960m, 3-hour drive) and Trek to Ghorepani (2860m, 4-5 hours)
Start your day for 3 days Poon Hill trek with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, a charming village nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna region. Enjoy the journey through lush green landscapes, terraced fields, and traditional Nepali villages. From Ulleri, begin your trek along a well-paved trail, passing through dense rhododendron forests and tranquil streams. Reach Ghorepani by late afternoon and settle into your lodge. In the evening, savor the serene ambiance and witness a breathtaking sunset view from a vantage point in Ghorepani.
Day 02: Trek to Poon Hill (3210m, 2-hour ascent) for Sunrise and Continue to Tadapani (2600m, 4-5 hours)
Wake up early and hike to Poon Hill, a famous viewpoint renowned for its panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges. Watch the first light of the day illuminate snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. After soaking in the stunning views and taking photos, descend to Ghorepani for breakfast. Resume your trek toward Tadapani, following a trail through lush forests filled with rhododendrons, oak, and pine trees. Along the way, enjoy the serene atmosphere and occasional glimpses of Himalayan peaks. Arrive at Tadapani by evening and relax amid the peaceful surroundings. This is the best day of 3 days Poon Hill trek.
Day 03: Trek to Ghandruk (2012m, 3-4 hours) and Drive to Pokhara (2.5 to 3 hours)
Begin your descent toward Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village known for its warm hospitality and cultural richness. Enjoy the scenic trail with stunning views of the Annapurna range along the way. Upon reaching Ghandruk, explore the village, interact with the locals, and learn about Gurung traditions and lifestyles. After lunch, board a vehicle for a comfortable drive back to Pokhara, where your trek concludes. Reflect on your unforgettable 3 days Poon Hill - Ghandruk journey while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Pokhara.
Alternatively, if you prefer to trek only to Poon Hill at a relaxed pace and choose not to explore Tadapani and Ghandruk, you can follow the itinerary below:
Day 01: Drive to Tikhedhunga and trek to Ulleri (1960m, 2-3 hrs)
Day 02: Trek to Ghorepani (2850m, 4-5 hrs), evening enjoy sunset view from Ghorepani
Day 03: Trek to Poon Hill (3210m. - 2 hrs) and enjoy the sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range and back to Ulleri for Lunch and continue to Tikhedhunga (4 -5 hrs) and then drive to Pokhara (2-2.5 hrs)
Duration: The trek typically lasts around 3 to 5 days, making it an ideal choice for travelers with limited time. The 3-day Poon Hill trek specifically covers the Ulleri-Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Tadapani - Ghandruk trail.
Starting Point/Ending Point: The trip often begins from the lakeside city of Pokhara, easily accessible by road or air from Kathmandu. From Pokhara's Lakeside area, you will be driven to the trek starting point at Ulleri, and the trek ends at popular Gurung vilalge Ghandruk. While it's possible to take an early morning flight from Kathmandu and start the trek on the same day.
Route: The trail winds through charming villages, lush rhododendron forests, and terraced fields, offering glimpses into the local culture and way of life. The route of the trekking is Pokhara- Nayapul -Tikhedhunga/Hile - Ulleri- Ghorepani Poon Hill - Tadapani - Ghandruk - Nayapul - Pokhara.
Difficulty Level: The trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty, suitable for trekkers of all ages and experience levels. However, certain sections may involve uphill climbs and steep descents.
Accommodation: Teahouses and guesthouses are available along the route, providing basic but comfortable lodging and meals.
Permits: Trekkers are required to obtain the necessary permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, before embarking on the trek. Himalayan Mentor will arrange those permit for your trek.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to undertake the Poon Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, offering optimal visibility of the mountains. However, this trek can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm and experiences.
Overall, the Poon Hill - Ghandruk Trek promises a memorable journey filled with breathtaking natural beauty, cultural encounters, and unforgettable mountain views, making it a must-visit destination for trekking enthusiasts visiting Nepal.