Annapurna Poon Hill Trek is the most spectacular short trekking option in the Annapurna Region. This trip allows trekkers to explore the north-western acreages of Pokhara since it is a dazzling trekking trail, and the allure of its views is completely mind-blogging. You will witness the settlements of the Magar and Gurung people with their several monasteries and temples. You will also experience the pleasing surroundings of blooming rhododendrons, lovely vegetation of pine, birch, oak, and juniper trees. The trip is also known as Annapurna Panorama Trek since it offers trekkers mesmerizing panoramic views of both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The most renowned and unmatched part of the route is an amazing view of the rising sun from the summit of Poon hill. The climb to the village of Ghandruk is also the thrilling part of the trek since Ghandruk is a beautiful village where you can see the settlements of the Gurung people.
DAY 01: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Thikedhunga - Altitude: 1,600M | Drive: 2hr | Trek: 4/5 hr. Meal: LD
You will drive in a private vehicle to the trekking trail head of Nayapul after breakfast. The scenic drive will take about 1 and a half hrs. From Nayapul we will follow upstream Modi Khola for about 30 mints and then cross it at the confluence of Modi and Burungdi River. Follow upstream Burungdi river climbing gradually to Thikedunga at the base of steep 3,000 steps to Ulleri. This 4 hrs walking is a good warm-up for the first day or you can even climb 3,000 steps to Ulleri to make the next day easier.
DAY 02: Trek to Ghorepani - Altitude: 2,800 M | Trek: 6 hrs. Meal: BLD
The climb will take about 2 hrs. Ulleri is a Magar village dominated by Pun Magars at 2,100 m. From the village, we will get the first view of Annapurna south and Mt. Fishtail. From the Ulleri village, the trail climbs gradually into the shed of alpine forest. The forest walk is intermediated by a group of teahouses catering trekkers. Ghorepani is a mountain pass below Pun Hill, overlooking at the world's deepest valley (Kaligandaki) wedged between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges.
DAY 03: Short hike to Poon Hill - Altitude: 3,210 m and Trek to Tadapani - Altitude: 2630 m | Trek: 5/6 hr. Meal: BLD
Sunrise view from the Pun Hill is the highlight of the pun hill trek. The hilltop at 3,190 m is 50 mints climb from Ghorepani. As the early rays of sun hit snow peaks, its color changes from pink to red. Panoramic view of over 15 peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manaslu ranges appear unreal. From Pun Hill one can see some of the world's highest peaks including Dhaulagiri (8,167m / 7th highest), Annapurna I (8,091 m / 10th highest) and Manaslu (8,157 m / 8th highest)
Climb down to Ghorepani and prepare for another beautiful day's walk to Tadapani. The trail at first climbs to the ridge top towards the east and then follows the ridge dense with Rhododendron to Deurali. Another three hours of walking through the rhododendron forest will take us to Tadapani at 2,500 m. From Tadapani, we have a closer view of Annapurna South and Fishtail.
DAY 04: Short walk to Ghandruk - Altitude:1,940 | Trek: 3 hr. Meal: BLD
Walk down to Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a charming mountain village in the forefront of Annapurna South and Mt. Fishtail. Thatch and slate roofed stone houses dominate the village surrounded by farming terraces. This is bhold of Gurung - tribe that was famous as 'Gurkha Soldiers.' In the evening go for a village walk or just relax enjoying the view in the comfort of Ghandruk.
DAY 05: Trek down to Nayapul - Trek: 5 Hrs & Drive back to Pokhara. Meal: BL
Climb down the stone steps to the Modi river basin and then follow it downstream to Nayapul from where we started this short trek in Annapurna. A car will come here to pick you and you will reach Pokhara in the late afternoon.
We have prepared the trip departure dates in small groups departure for group fun and enjoyment trekking. Our group size start from 2 peoples (Even for solo travelers, we organize single trip on supplement cost of US$- 200 additional) and maximum group size will be 8-10 travelers. But in general, our every date will have small groups of 4- 6 peoples, which is good group size for safe and flexible & comfortable trekking. We have listed our group departure dates based on every season as below.
Ground Transportation Pokhara: Pokhara/Nayapul/Pokhara drive in private vehicle
Accommodation during Trek: 4 Nights'basic guesthouse accommodations during the trek in mostly twin-share and occasionally dormitory-style rooms. [Few nights in an attached bathroom in available places]
Meals: 3 Meals per day during the trek (BLD: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. Each meal consist of one course of the meal)
Guide: Nepal Government licensed English-speaking trekking guide.
Porter: The required number of local staff and porters to carry your luggage during the trek (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area Project [ACAP] Permit and Trekkers' Information Management Systems [TIMS] Card
Equipment: Sleeping Bag and Down Jacket during Trek (upon request)
Food, accommodation, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all staff.
Exclusive medical kit bag carried by trekking guide
All our government taxes, vat, tourist service charges.
Official expenses
What's Not Included ?
Nepal arrival visa
Your personal expenses for mineral water, soft beverages, confectionaries, laundries, phone calls, hot drinking water, bar bills showers etc.
Internet facility, battery chargers, multi plugs etc.
Medical expenses and trip cancellation.
Any other extended trips and accommodation.
Tips of ga guides, porters and driver as a token of appreciation.
Any other expenses or charges that are not mentioned in “cost includes” list.
Route Map
Useful Information
PASSPORT AND VISA:
All the foreign nationals (except Indian nationals) are required to display Visa while entering Nepal. Nepalese Visa can be obtained either at the Nepalese Embassy of the respective country or can be obtained during your arrival at the International Airport in Kathmandu or from Nepal’s border entry point in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki on the Nepal-India border and Kodari on the Nepal-China border.
Certain nationals are requested to arrange Visa prior to arrival in Nepal. The listed countries are- Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Palestine, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Liberia and cannot secure Nepalese Visa on arrival.
VISA FACILITY DURATION FEES
Multiple Entry 15 Days US$ 75 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple Entry 30 Days US$ 90 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple Entry 90 Days US$ 150 or equivalent convertible currency
You can also download the VISA form and fill it up. Please go through the link as below: http://www.online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa
MONEY & CREDIT CARD INFO
Most of the credit card, master and visa card is blocked from your card provider. It may be because of a security reason. It, sometimes, may bring you in a problematic situation that you can't get money from ATMs. To find yourself free from this problem, you can call your card provider before you travel to Nepal and inform there that you are traveling to Nepal. Ensure them to give the authorization for the payment. Be sure you have brought some small amount for your daily expenses as well as for those items which are not included in our cost. If you want to exchange money, we provide you with the facility to change your money. Or, you can take help from Money Changers in Thamel.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delay, and cancellations.
Insurance Policy:
Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on the holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. World Nomads
https://www.worldnomads.com/
NOTE:
Please, kindly note, these given references of the insurance company above is only a recommendation, which based on the recommendation of our previous travelers. You could review their update insurance policy by contacting them directly.
VACCINATION FOR NEPAL
Travelers should consult with their physician or update on vaccination requirements before travel. (Your doctor or the health-care provider will determine what you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities). For traveling to Nepal, we recommend you to take vaccination of Polio, Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies, etc. However, it is not mandatory but recommended.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS (ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS)
Altitude sickness, also known as AMS (acute mountain sickness), is caused by a lack of oxygen at high altitudes (normally above 3,000m). It occurs as the result of our bodies’ inability to adapt to a sudden increase in altitude. If given time, our bodies will adjust and a gradual ascent will decrease the possibility of altitude sickness.
PREVENTION OF AMS: Go slowly, drink a lot of water, and pay attention to the sensations of your body. If symptoms occur you have climbed too far for the day. Rest at the same altitude will give you time to acclimatize and usually relieve mild symptoms.
MILD SYMPTOMS: Headache, nausea, loss of appetite, and mild shortness of breath with minimal exertion, difficulty sleeping, dizziness or lightheadedness, mild weakness, fatigue, a general unwell feeling.
SERIOUS SYMPTOMS: The inability to recover from shortness of breath with rest, severe persistent headache, low urine output, vomiting, confusion, delirium, loss of coordination. These require immediate descent as acclimatization will not take place at the same altitude.
The key is to trek slowly, carry a light pack and just take it easy. Allow your body the time it needs to acclimatize.
ARRIVAL INSTRUCTION
Upon your arrival at TIA International Airport, our company's representatives are stationed to pick you up. They will be holding your name sign along with the company's name in it. Our office representative will escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Reviews
Sunny H.
2021-05-21
It's a fantastic spot to visit. There is a new trekking route that is quite interesting. Because it is new and undeveloped, it has one of the densest forests, calm settlements, and a peaceful and less crowded journey all the way to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The views from the High Camp summit of villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, Machhapuchre, Huinchuli, and Annapurna South are breathtaking. The trek is a little more difficult than ABC, with a tiny and dangerous trail route. The peaks are really steep. It is, however, well worth the effort. This is a must trek Destination.
Sunny H.
2021-05-21
It's a fantastic spot to visit. There is a new trekking route that is quite interesting. Because it is new and undeveloped, it has one of the densest forests, calm settlements, and a peaceful and less crowded journey all the way to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The views from the High Camp summit of villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, Machhapuchre, Huinchuli, and Annapurna South are breathtaking. The trek is a little more difficult than ABC, with a tiny and dangerous trail route. The peaks are really steep. It is, however, well worth the effort. This is a must trek Destination.
Sushil K.
2021-03-08
We had a group of 5, and AAT helped us manage everything from accommodation to duffle bags as we had no past trekking experience. The guide was very helpful and entertaining.
Yuvi J.
2021-05-13
Took a short trek to Helambu Ama Yangri Peak with AAT. Absolutely loved the service and enjoyed the view of Mt Everest and the Many Highest Peaks.
Ron D.
2021-03-07
I including the other 4 friends went on a trek to Mohare Dada while returning from Annapurna Base Camp and it was amazing. Loved the service provided by AAT.
Sunny T.
2021-09-08
The trekking is fantastic! It went just as planned, the organization was flawless, and Puru was extremely helpful and accommodating. He responds quickly and clearly, and he knows what he's talking about. We strongly advise you to travel with his firm!
Yuri B.
2021-05-11
This extremely great and stunning scenery made me fall in love, and my emotion was cool. I really like this place and would recommend it to others. I hope to return soon.
Danny K.
2022-03-30
We recently returned from a vacation to Nepal, where we participated in a five-day Ghandruk trek with Alpha Adventure Treks. They contributed to the success of our trip by offering a secure and trustworthy platform via which we could connect with a fantastic team, make secure payments, and communicate efficiently before, during, and after the trip. We had a great day seeing the cultural Gurung villages and taking in the breathtaking views of Annapurna. AAT and their staff come highly recommended by us for anyone planning a trip to Nepal.
Archie J.
2020-11-18
We went on the Poonhill trek as a group. With Alpha Adventure Treks, we experienced the most incredible trek. With a variety of grades, scenery, and vegetation, the walk was enjoyable. We stayed at a lovely teahouse. Overall, I can't say enough good things about this agency. Great journey advice from the office and excellent expert guides.
Jean R.
2021-11-13
I had a fantastic time with Alpha Adventure! Despite the challenging weather that comes with hiking in the off-season, my guide made sure that I was able to fulfill my dream of reaching the Thorong la pass! As a solo female tourist, I felt quite safe with his extensive trekking knowledge and accommodating nature. Without the AAT crew, I would not have had the once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience. I wholeheartedly endorse it!
Kristen A.
2021-08-30
This is the most unforgettable trip we've ever taken. We didn't think 11 days would be enough to see the Annapurnas, but the way this trip was organized and carried out was incredible. Because the tour was so well-organized, we thoroughly loved every minute of the trip and didn't feel like we were missing out on anything because of the time constraints. We didn't have to worry about our pace because it was a private guided trip. We saw the beautiful Annapurna foothills, visited towns, and met some new acquaintances along the route. I'll be eternally grateful to AAT for this quick yet well-organized trip.
Jose S.
2021-05-10
I completed the Annapurna Circuit and had a fantastic time. The circuit is a little touristy, but the scenery is breathtaking, and it is much less crowded in the off-season; the weather is still pleasant in May. I always had a nice vibe traveling with Alpha Adventure Treks because everyone I met was so friendly and welcoming.
Hazel L.
2021-03-10
Trekking to Khopra Ridge was an incredible adventure! We liked how it was a little off the beaten road. It was not at all crowded. We had the impression that we had the mountains to ourselves.
Randy W.
2021-10-17
A trip to remember! My first trek was so much fun and exciting thanks to all of your aid from "Alpha Adventure Treks" and their excellent management! A kind and professional guide who knows practically everything there is to know about the area. I hope to see you guys again soon! incredibly pleased with the staff.
Maggie Shah
2021-05-10
We had a fantastic time at Ghalegaun Village Homestay. The locals in the village were quite nice and created a lovely and welcoming atmosphere, as well as excellent food. Our overnight stay at the homestay was equally fantastic and unforgettable.
Coco X.
2019-09-06
With Yuvi as our guide, we had the most incredible tour. Everything was taken care of by the firm, from hotel pickup to excursions like a sight-seeing flight to Everest. We were in wonderful hands the entire time and felt protected.
Roonie H.
2019-11-20
This is one among Nepal's most well-known trekking destinations. After arriving in Pokhara, it begins either at Naya Pool or at Phedi. There are only a few sites on the planet that have such a diverse range of natural beauty as the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri region.
Yogi J.
2021-09-14
I was awestruck by the daybreak, which was so beautiful that I was able to watch nature at her finest. This journey was beyond anything I could have anticipated. The scenery was breathtaking during the journey. The mountain's eye-catching laps when the sun shone down on it were huge. I could witness the best of nature's handiwork. My companions and I were also fortunate to have Alpha Adventure Treks as our tour organization. Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder. This location will live on in my mind for the rest of my life.
Anna J.
2021-05-27
It was the most unforgettable trekking trip I've ever taken. ABC is really gratifying in every way. This is the second time I've done it. Maybe one day I'll do it again. Every time you take a different route, you'll get a new experience. From Himalaya to ABC, the vista is incredible.
Elijah A.
2021-10-09
We had a good view of this spectacular mountain from afar, which added to its majesty. Our Nepalese guide spoke about it with reverence, and we were enslaved by it as well. Climbing this behemoth is both awe-inspiring and terrifying, and neglecting to be humble can lead to death.