Overview
Are you interested in the short trek comprising of panoramic Himalayan Views? If so, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a relatively short and moderate trek, making it accessible to a wide range of trekkers, including the novice trekkers or the experienced trekkers. This region provides you the stay in the wonderful city of Nepal, Pokhara, where you can spend few more days customizing your trek itinerary.
The trek generally starts from Birethanti, about one and half hour drive from Pokhara by grounded transportation. It passes through beautiful lush green forests including the rhododendron forests, quaint villages, terraced fields, and many suspension bridges. During the journey, trekkers can behold some magnificent mountain views, both of them snow-capped i.e., the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. During this scenic drive, you get the beautiful vibes of the tourist hub in this region. From Pokhara, you start your journey for the trek which begins with the majestic mountain views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. During your drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, your journey becomes more exciting.
Pokhara is the city that provides you with the serene mountain views and the opportunity for you to involve yourself in the boating facility around the area to visit the temple which lies in the center of the lake. The lake is highly famous for the shadow view of the Machhapuchhre Himal/Mountain. Machhapuchhre Himal is named after the fish tail, thus, it is also known as the “Fish Tail mountain.”
The main event of this trek is the view of the rising sun from Poon Hill which stands at a height of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). To catch the early rays of the sun, the trekkers start their journey early in the morning and go uphill for about an hour from the village of Ghorepani to reach Poon Hill. From the hilltop, you grab hold of the panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges when sunlight strikes these mountain ranges for the first time.
After the quality time in the Poonhill top, trekkers retreat to Ghorepani, descending back for breakfast. The trek afterward traverses beautiful places like Tadapani, Ghandruk, and Landruk. With lovely views, interaction with the local Gurung and Magar communities, unique cultural experiences, and visit to teahouses along the trail is something the trek has to offer.
The trek usually takes around 4-5 days to complete, depending on the pace of the trekker. The maximum elevation reached during the trek is around 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) at Poon Hill, making it a relatively easier trek compared to some other routes in the region.
Overall, choosing Access The Asia Treks for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can provide trekkers with a reliable and hassle-free experience, with experienced guides and excellent service. Our main motto of organizing treks in this region is to provide our clients with short and moderate trek with the majestic panoramic views and the quality time in the beautiful city of Nepal, Pokhara.
Trip Highlights
- Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from various vantage points along the trek, including the famous Poonhill viewpoint.
- Capture stunning sunrise and sunset moments over the snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri.
- Encounter diverse ethnic communities and their unique cultures, particularly the Gurung and Magar communities.
Visit traditional villages such as Ghandruk, known for their warm hospitality, traditional houses, and intricate terraced fields.
Immerse yourself in the local traditions, music, dance, and delicious Nepali cuisine.
- Trek through lush rhododendron forests, especially vibrant during the spring season (March to April), when the flowers are in full bloom.
Experience the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna region, with opportunities to spot various bird species, butterflies, and wildlife.
- Hike to Poonhill before dawn to witness a mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas. Enjoy panoramic views of golden peaks emerging from the morning mist, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Stay in teahouses along the trekking route and experience the warm hospitality of the local communities. Interact with friendly locals, learn about their way of life, and gain insights into their traditional practices and customs.
- Trek through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields, deep gorges, and lush green valleys. Cross suspension bridges over rivers and streams, adding adventure and excitement to the trek.
Equipments
A detailed gear list is crucial for trekking. With Access the Asia Treks, we ensure the clients safety, comfort and success in the challenging Himalayan environment. To support clients who doesn’t have personal specific equipment, Access the Asia Treks offers rental facilities for high-quality trekking gear, ensuring that all participants are properly equipped. This service not only guarantees safety but also makes the adventure more accessible and stress-free, allowing trekkers to focus on the experience while adhering to professional safety standards.
Here’s a list of essential gears for trekking:
Clothing:
Upper Body:
- Base Layers – Moisture-wicking t-shirts (2-3) and Thermal tops and bottoms (2 sets)
- Mid Layers: Fleece jacket or Down jacket (lightweight but warm) (Down jackets can be hired in Nepal)
- Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket and Waterproof trekking pants
- Neck Gaiters
Lower Body:
- Trekking pants (2-3 pairs), Thermal leggings and Hiking shorts (optional)
Head and Hands:
- Hat or cap, wool hat, neck gaiter and Lightweight gloves (Insulated gloves)
Footwear:
- Trekking boots (waterproof), Camp shoes (sandals or sneakers) and Wool or synthetic trekking socks (3-4 pairs)
Backpacks and Bags:
- Large duffel bag (for porters) – (Provided by the company)
- Daypack (30-40L, for personal items)
- Waterproof rain covers for backpacks
Sleeping:
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold weather, depending on the trek) – (Can be hired in Nepal)
- Sleeping bag liner (optional for extra warmth)
Trekking Gear:
- Trekking poles (adjustable, lightweight) – Optional
- Headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
Personal Items:
- Water bottles (insulated)
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Quick-dry towel
- Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothpaste, wet wipes)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- First aid kit (basic, including medication)
- Hand sanitizer
- Cash for your personal expenses as per your necessity
Miscellaneous:
- Snacks and energy bars
- Power bank and charging cables
- Camera (optional)
- Trekking permits and documentation (Provided by the company)
- Travel documents (Passport and Travel insurance)
- Plastic bags (for wet or dirty clothing)
- Duct tape (for repairs) – (Provided by the company)
Optional:
- Lightweight crampons (for icy sections, if necessary) – (Can be hired in Nepal)
- Portable altitude chamber or oxygen (if the trek includes extreme altitudes) – (Provided by the company)
- Personal thermos for hot beverages
This gear list should be customized based on the specific trek, altitude, and weather conditions.
Company provides the following facilities regarding the trekking gears
Duffle bag – Company provides the duffle bag to carry all your trekking gears except your light luggage during the trek.
Company provides you the renting facilities of the gears and you can rent the gears in Nepal and you have to pay on your own. The gears renting costs around USD 2 to USD 2.5 per day.
Note: If there is any damage in the rented gears, then you must reimburse for the damaged material as per its original cost.
