Overview
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 beginners.
The trek usually starts from Nayapul, which is about an hour’s drive from Pokhara. From Nayapul, the trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, charming villages, terraced fields, and several suspension bridges. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
The main highlight of the trek is the sunrise view from Poon Hill, which is located at an altitude of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). To witness the sunrise, trekkers start early in the morning and hike uphill for about an hour from Ghorepani village to reach Poon Hill. From the hilltop, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the peaks.
After experiencing the sunrise at Poon Hill, trekkers descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. The trek then continues through beautiful villages like Tadapani, Ghandruk, and Landruk, offering opportunities to interact with the local Gurung and Magar communities, experience their unique culture, and enjoy the hospitality of teahouses along the route.
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.
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
What to Bring?
One of the most beautiful and difficult trekking locations in the world is the Annapurna Region To ensure your safety, comfort, and pleasure during your trek, the appropriate gear is crucial. When trekking in the Annapurna Region you should bring the following items, among others:
- Trekking boots: To safeguard your feet and stop injuries on the difficult landscape, you need sturdy trekking boots with an ankle support.
- Backpack: A sturdy, roomy backpack that is comfortable to wear and has space for all of your necessities, such as water, snacks, a camera, and additional clothing.
- Clothing: In the Everest region, layers are essential for keeping warm and cozy. Bring thermal undergarments, a fleece or down jacket, a shell that is waterproof, and trekking trousers. Bring a scarf, hat, and mittens as well for the cold conditions.
- Sleeping bag: A quality sleeping bag that is designated for temperatures below zero is necessary for keeping warm and comfortable at night.
- Trekking poles: When walking on rocky, steep ground, trekking poles offer support and help minimize the impact on your knees and ankles.
- Headlamp: For early morning starts, late-night hikes, and navigating through dark lodges and paths, a light is a necessity.
- Sunglasses: UV-protected, high-quality sunglasses are crucial for shielding your eyes from the glare of the snow and intense mountain sunshine.
- Water container and purification tablets: To ensure that you have access to pure drinking water throughout your trek, bring a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets.
- First aid box: In case of emergencies, having a simple first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, and altitude sickness medication is crucial. The trekking leader also has the first aid kit for your safety.
Access the Asia Treks offers its customers a thorough packing list, equipment rental choices, and guidance on the best supplies for their trekking requirements. In order to complete their trek to the Mardi himal trek securely and comfortably, we want to make sure that our clients have all the required supplies.
CANCELLATION POLICY AND PAYMENTS
- As different permits, flight tickets and other government official documents are necessary so payment is highly appreciable if done 30 days prior of the trekking start date.
- Payments are supposed to be done 15 days prior to the trekking start date.
- If cancellation is made 10 days before the trek start date, 50% of the total trek cost will be charged as the cancellation fees.
- In case of restrictions imposed by the government, bad weather or the emergency situation, the company will not to be liable to any extra cost and will find the most feasible way to proceed the trek.
ADVISORY
- Non-bio degradable materials are not allowed to dispose in the trekking route randomly.
- Proper follow of the guidance provided by the leader/guide of the trek.
- Alcoholic beverages and other intoxicating substances are highly discouraged.
- There might be the chances of bad weather so be prepared for the inconvenience caused by the unpredictable weather.
- Try to be mentally and physically prepared before this trek with few short hikes before this trek is highly recommended.
IMPORTANT THINGS REQUIRED
- Passport
- Few passport size photos for TIMS and other official documents
- Personal trekking equipment
- Snow goggles
- Personal handbag and luggage
- Snacks and sweets like chocolate bar (if required)
- Some personal items and sunscreen/sun cream
- Water bottle and hat
PRELIMINARY AND KEY NOTES
- Greeting ‘Namaste’ (your palms held together) is the most respectful and attractive way to greet somebody and is practiced profoundly.
- Accessibility of internet and phone calls can be made efficient using the mobile SIM Card provided by the company itself or you can buy easily in the local market. All you need is one passport sized photo and a photocopy of your physical passport in either case.
- There are lots of major cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu along with the ancient monasteries and sculptures. Photos are not taken unless you have asked for the permission.
- The nightlife in Kathmandu is mostly safe and concentrated in Thamel area, one of the busiest destinations for foreigners to hang out with varied options of bars, restaurants and other places to choose from. Somehow, other areas including small towns are closed before 10pm.
- Nepalese people are friendly, truly kind and incredibly welcoming as there is a phrase in Nepali culture ‘Guests equal Gods’. Out of the blue moon, there are several chances of being cheated. Saying this, you are somehow prone to possible travel scams. Keep yourself and your belongings safe, if you are travelling solo. It is highly recommended to have one experienced guide, taking safety into consideration.
