Poon Hill Trek, Nepal

From long arduous walking detour to short splendid trekking trails are features of Nepal Trekking. In alluring Annapurna region trekkers can take part in the most famous short trekking route of Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise Trek. It is at the crossroad of Annapurna Base Camp Trek and allows trekkers to gather stunning mountain vista of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Gangapurna, Himchuli, Neelgiri, Dhaulagiri and others. Journey is also classed as Annapurna Sunrise Trek or Annapurna View Trek. It is an ideal option for a family trek and recommended for beginners and even kids of the age group of six and above.

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Brief Itinerary

  • Day 1 - Arrival In Kathmandu & overnight in Hotel.
  • Day 2 - Fly to Pokhara + Drive to Nayapul & trek to Ulleri - Overnight in Ulleri.
  • Day 3 - Trek to from Ulleri to Ghorepani - Overnight in Ghorepani.
  • Day 4 - Poon Hill sunrise view and trek to Tadapani - Overnight in Tadapani
  • Day 5 - Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk and drive back to Pokhara - Overnight in Pokhara
  • Day 6 - Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu - Overnight in Kathmandu
  • Day 7 - Fly out from Kathmandu

Inclusions & Exclusions

Trip Cost Includes:

  • All accommodation on double sharing basis. (Individual occupancy can be arranged at an extra charge.)
  • Ground Transport: Airport pickup and drop in groups, upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu (International and domestic both).
  • Hotel Accommodation: 02 night's hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara with breakfast on twin sharing basis.
  • Trekking Accommodation: 03 night’s tea house accommodation in sharing dorms. 
  • Staff: Professional, licensed and English speaking mountain guide, porter to carry your duffle bags upto 12 Kgs.
  • Food during the trek 3 meals + 3 hot beverages.
  • All necessary trekking permits: Annapurna Conservation Area and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) fee.
  • All transportation: Pokhara – Trekking – Pokhara.
  • Basic First aid medical kit.

Trip Cost DOES NOT Include:

  • Your international flight to and from Nepal.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, internet/e-mail, etc.
  • Expenses for medical evacuation.
  • Bar and beverage bills.
  • Tips for guide, porter.
  • Single occupancy hotel room or hotel upgrades in Kathmandu 
  • Expenses arising out of chnage of itinerary, early arrival in Kathmandu or late departures. 
  • Expenses arising out of early arrival from the mountains due to ill health, medical or personal emergencies etc.  

Things to carry

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Extreme temperature variations, high altitude, snow glare & proximity to sun are certain factors which necessitate the need to for proper mountaineering equipment. In order to enjoy your experience in the mountains, we have recommended that you carry the following with you.

Apparel

  • Thermal Inners - At least 1 pair of Top and Leggings
  • 6-8 t-shirts or long-sleeve shirt (cotton / dryfit)
  • 2-3 pairs of trekking pants (no denim!)
  • 1 Sweater/Sweatshirt
  • 1 Fleece Jacket
  • 1 Down Jacket
  • 1 Waterproof Layer like raincoat or wind-cheater
  • 1 pair of hiking boots
  • 1 pair of comfortable sandals/floaters/sneakers
  • 6-8 pairs of cotton socks (for day)
  • 2 pairs of thick/woollen socks (for night)
  • Gloves - liner and outer
  • Sun hat
  • Woollen cap
  • Buff

 

Accessories

  • Duffel bag / Rucksack (60L+)
  • Daypack / Backpack (20-30L capacity)
  • Sleeping bag (can be bought or rented in Kathmandu)
  • 2x 1L Bottles (to carry drinking water)
  • Lunchbox
  • Torch + Batteries / Headlamp
  • Knee/Ankle/Wrist Guards
  • Trekking Poles
  • Sunblock
  • Sunglasses
  • Moisturiser
  • Hand Sanitiser
  • Personal Medical Kit
  • Personal Toiletries Kit
  • Snacks!

 

Fitness

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  • There are three main aspects of training to focus on – strength training, cardiovascular training, and trekking + trekking alternatives.
     
  • Strength training involves training different muscle groups, so that they can become stronger. There are different exercises for each muscle group, and working them all out 2x-3x a week should be enough to help you get comfortable trekking.
     
  • Legs / lower body - exercises like squats, glute bridges, step ups and leg presses with help you develop stronger muscles in the lower body. 

    Core - Exercises like planks, bicycle crunches and leg raises can help with core stability; Pilates is also a core-intensive type of workout that will help.

    Upper body - Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups and dips will help develop these muscles. You can also use resistance bands or light weights to develop them further.
     
  • It’s vital to do plenty of cardio training before your trek, so that you can get the most out of your experience
     
  • Running - This is the most recommended form of cardio activity, as it activates a lot of the same muscles as trekking. Being able to run 10km in 60 minutes will allow you to get the most out of your trek.

    Cycling / Swimming - If you have knee issues, or don’t enjoy running, you can also opt for cycling and swimming. Being able to cycling 30-50km or swim for 30-40 minutes, thrice a week, should be good to help you with treks like EBC.

    HIIT training / Crossfit - Another option to level up your cardio training is to opt for high intensity aerobic exercises like HIIT or Crossfit, 2-3 times a week
    The aim is to get your heart rate up, so you do not get winded on long days of trekking
     
  • Hiking
    Try to get outdoors and go for a hike on the weekends! Uphill trails of 4-8 kilometres are will help you get used to trekking. Make it a point to carry a loaded backpack, and walk in your trekking shoes.
     
  • Hiking Alternatives
    Climbing stairs, and using the treadmill or stairmaster on an incline, will help prepare you for treks. Make it a point to carry a loaded backpack so that you can get used to the extra weight; and use your trekking boots, so that you can break them in and walk comfortably.
     
  • If you’re confused with all this information, no need to worry! The most important thing with training is consistency, and staying injury-free. Your training week should ideally have
    Strength training - 3 sessions
    Cardio training - 3 sessions
    Hiking - 1 long session, best on the weekends
    Rest and stretching - at least 1 day

FAQs

Poon Hill Trek

Can a beginner do this trek ?

The Poon Hill Trek is a perfect trek for those who want to introduce themselves to high altitude trekking. It does require one to be in decent physical state and have an active lifestyle. The trek can be taken up by amateur trekkers and beginners with 3 to 6 weeks week of preparation depending on their current fitness levels.

What are the staying arrangements like ?

Accommodation in Kathmandu on arrival and post the trek will be in a standard 3-star hotel in Thamel district, on double sharing basis. Our package contains all accommodation of twin sharing basis, however, on request we can arrange for upgrades to single occupancy in Kathmandu and also to 4 star or 5 star hotels in Kathmandu at an additional charge.

Accommodation during the trek will be arranged in mountain lodges/tea houses. These tea houses are standard lodges with rooms containing multiple beds, mattresses, warm blankets and pillows for each trekker Accommodation will be in rooms/sharing dorms.

What temperatures can I expect on the trek ?

The temperature in Kathmandu shall be in a range of around 20 - 25 Degrees Celsius Afternoons are usually hot and humid and evenings are towards the colder sides. The temperature during the course of the trek are pleasant during the day and can be expected to be around 10-15 degree Celsius.

As and how we proceed and gain attitude, the temperatures will fall by 2 to 3 degrees every day  hence layering oneself well will be of utmost importance. Even though you may be trekking during peak season time, one can always expect drizzles in the mountains. Carrying a rain jacket or a poncho during the trek shall be mandatory.

 

What are the communication systems on the trek ?

The communication systems on the trek is very well established. There are multiple options to be in touch with your friends and family while on the trek. You can activate international roaming on your phone or even buy a local sim card in Nepal. The sim card will cost anywhere between NR 600 - 700 depending on the plan you would like to purchases. However, your simcard may not have network at all times, you also have the option of purchasing wifi at the tea house.

Different tea houses charge different amount for purchase of wifi usually ranging anywhere between 500 – 700 nepali rupees for a 24 hour cycle.

What happens in case of a medical emergency?

Our team carries a full-fledged medical kit that contains generic as well as high altitude medicines. We will be doing oxygen level checks everyday as well, and our team leaders will also be doing physical examination to ensure how the trekkers are feeling. In case anyone shows any signs of high altitude sickness, medicines will be given by our leaders according to the symptoms shown. Most tea houses also have access to emergency oxygen cylinders that be rented from the tea house if needed.

In case a person cannot continue further up ahead on the trek, if he/she is not physically fit or is unable to acclimatize etc. he/she will be advised by the leader on whether he can continue the trek or should go back with one of our guides. Owing to safety protocols, the trek leaders decision shall be final and binding. Depending on the condition of the trekker, a helicopter evacuation or a horse – either could be used to go back, the cost of which will have to be borne by the trekker himself.

What kind of clothes do I need to carry?

Carrying good apparels and accessories plays a very vital role in ensuring a good experience while exploring the mountains. Please refer to the list on our website for details of clothes and accessories that will be mandatory to carry on the trek.

Do I need any technical equipment?

There is no requirement of technical gears or equipment for this trek. Only the list of apparels and accessories as mentioned on our website shall be necessary.

10. What are the food arrangements?

In the hotel, our base package covers bed and breakfast plan, so breakfast will be included which will be organized as a buffet. Lunch and dinner/anything ordered from the menu, will be on actuals.

While on the trek our base package covers 3 meals and 3 beverages daily. One order/item is considered as one meal/beverage. These meals can be decided by the individual basis his/her preference. The tea houses have a variety of options for meals ranging from bread with butter/Jam/honey, porridge, oats, pancakes, etc. to Daalbhat tarkari, spaghetti, fried rice, and even burgers and pizza etc. Beverages include hot water, tea, coffee, milk, ginger lemon water, etc.

How can I acclimatize for the trek?

Acclimatization basically means enabling your body to adapt to the altitude, heat, cold, air, etc. In the mountains, this becomes very important to ensure a comfortable trekking experience.

The basic 5 things to do in order to acclimatize well is –

  1. Keep your hydration levels high. One needs to consume minimum 4 litres of water on a daily basis.
  2. Keep your appetite going well. Loss of appetite is one of the first signs of being affected by AMS. Keeping a decent appetite from day 1 is important and it will also give your body the required nutrition.
  3. Sleep – It is of utmost importance that your body is well rested. Minimum 7-9 hours of sleep is recommended to rest, recover and recharge yourself for the next day.
  4. Protecting your eyes – Wearing sunglasses in the mountains is a must. The sun glares are much stronger in the high altitudes than our cities, and can often lead to headaches which can stay for very long.
  5. Walk and talk pace – your pace of walking should be such that you should be able to talk. Especially when gaining altitude, it is advisable to walk slower as you gain the height, which allows your body to adapt better.

What medicines need to be carried?

Our team usually carries a full fledge medical kit which include generic medicines ranging from headache, indigestion, allergies, anti-inflammatory, to high altitude medicines like Diamox etc. from oxy meters, thermometers, bandages, water purification drops

But apart from that in case there are specific medicines that work for you or your doctor has prescribed, you should carry those. The list of medicines you can carry has also been highlighted in the ‘Things to carry’ tab on our website.

Is a fitness certificate by a doctor needed?

Yes. A medical certificate is compulsory for this trek. It is important that you have yourself assessed by a qualified doctor before the trek. The physical examination conducted by the doctor will include a check of your blood pressure, pulse, recording your blood group, mentioning any previous injuries/accidents or allergies, etc. This assessment will be beneficial not only for the trekker but also the team in case if any medical situation arises.

The format of the certificate will be shared by our team to all the participants and needs to be submitted as per the deadlines mentioned by a representative from Adventure Pulse

Do I have to carry my entire bag while trekking ?

No. As part of the premium services we provide at Adventure Pulse, backpack off-loading is also included. The main bag/duffle bag that you will need through your journey will be our teams responsibility and be carried from Pokhara onwards and be carried by our porter staff, with a limit of up to 12 Kgs. In case your bag weighs more than that, extra porter charges will be applicable.

The only bag that you will be carrying with you, will be a small day bag which can be between a 20-30 L capacity bag, to accommodate your water bottle, snack, thin jacket, poncho etc. In case you would like a personal assistant to carry your day bag as well, the same can be hired at an additional cost.

How will I reach my hotel from the airport?

We will be organizing group pickups in cars from the airport to the hotel. There will be around 4-6 people who will be picked together depending on their arrival timings. Since these are group pick ups there will be a certain amount of waiting time involved. However, if you wish to opt for a personal vehicle, the same can be arranged on additional charges.

How much extra money should I carry for the trek ?

The package covers your food, accommodation, on ground transport etc. but you will need money for either personal expenses like – shopping, purchase of hot shower facilities, wifi, food in café’s, patisseries, tips to the guides etc.

For Kathmandu you can budget around 3000 to 3500 Nepali rupees per day & for your trek you can budget around 1500 to 2000 Nepali Rupees per day for any extras and additional expenses.

Will my debit/credit cards work in Nepal ?

Your credit/debit cards will work in Nepal if they are activated internationally. Even UPI payments option through Google pay, Paytm, etc. are available provided you have a working sim associated with that bank account. However, in the mountains there will be no access to ATM’s except at Namche Bazaar. The only way to make expenses in the mountains is by paying in cash, strictly in Nepali currency only. It is safer to keep cash handy with you.

How can I convert currency in Nepal ?

In case you would like to convert your currency to Nepali, there are multiple forex shops in Thamel itself who can do that.

In case you’d like our team to help you with the conversion, you can inform our representative accordingly, at least 2 days in advance, and the amount you would like to convert, so that necessary arrangements can be made.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Our team will be at the airport to receive you when you land in Kathmandu. Look out for beaming faces, frantic hands waving at you, and of course, signboards bearing our logo. We will personally escort you to your hotel, located in Thamel, which we dare-say is Kathmandu’s most exciting district! Lined (in every conceivable direction) with pubs, restaurants and shops offering everything from expedition gear to local souvenirs. Thamel’s musical, aromatic and bustling streets will keep you entertained, leaving you wanting to come back for more, every single time! We’ve done this trek 39 times and still can’t quite get enough of Thamel! Once the entire group arrives and checks into their rooms, a short but comprehensive briefing is done in order to prepare everyone for the journey to come and to resolve any queries that you might have before the trek begins. Our team will check your equipment to ensure that you are sufficiently prepared for the trek and will assist you with any last minute shopping that needs to be done before we set off. After that, the day is entirely yours. The flight to Lukla is usually an early morning affair and while it’s important to get an adequate amount of rest on your first night, it’s also true that a little party never hurt anyone.

Day 2

Fly to Pokhara + Drive to Nayapul & trek to Ulleri – Overnight in Ulleri.

We take a morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara with the view of beautiful middle hills of the countryside and panoramic Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After reaching Pokhara, a 42 km drive for nearly 1.5 hours will take you to a place called Nayapul. Then, the trek begins by ascending through the beautiful rice, millet and maze farms. Walking all along the major trail of Birethanti allows us to pass through beautiful petite waterfalls. The path takes us to Sudami and then we gradually walk by the side of valley and reach at Hile (1495 meter). Eventually, after half an hour walk we will reach at Tikhedhunga (1525 meter) and continue further up to climb climb 3500 stone steps to reach Ulleri (2073 meter), which is our destination for the day. Flight time – 25 to 30 minutes Drive time – 1.5 hours Trekking duration – 5 hours

Day 3

Trek to from Ulleri to Ghorepani – Overnight in Ghorepani

The trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani is roughly a 9-10 kilometres trail. After having breakfast at our tea house in Ulleri, we start our journey towards Ghorepani. Today’s day will be an approximately 5 hours journey on foot. A beautiful trail passing lush forests, waterfalls & some spectacular Himalayan views, today’s trek will give you enough opportunities for you to take post card worthy pictures. We can expect to arrive at our destination in the afternoon, between 2 – 4 pm.

Day 4

Poon Hill sunrise view and trek to Tadapani – Overnight in Tadapani

Today’s day is one of the most anticipated days of the journey. We make an early morning 4 am start to hike to the top of Poon-hill to treat ourselves to the mesmerizing views of the mountains. This hike is a steep climb, however, it is a well maintained trail and has steps to follow. The trail is filled with Pine trees and as you approach the top, it will start to feel colder. We will take around 2 hours to reach the summit, and catch a beautiful sunrise! Be ready to be mind blown as you get terrific views of some the tallest mountains in the world – The Annapurna I (8097 M), Macchapuchare , Dhaulagiri (8167 M), Gangapunra and the Khansar Kang. We spend some time soaking in the sun, and start our descent to go back from where we started. On returning, we then halt for breakfast at our tea house, and then continue our journey to Tadapani. The trek to Tadapani, is a beautiful trail through Rhododendron forests and Oak trees. On the way, we will be passing through the settlement of Chomrong, a small village surrounded in lush beauty of the Oak forests.

Day 5

Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk and drive back to Pokhara – Overnight in Pokhara

Tadapani to Ghandruk distance is the short easy part of Ghorepani Ghandruk trek in Annapurna foot hills. Tadapani to Ghandruk trek distance is 6.5 kilometer / 4 miles. To cross flat and downhill trail to arrive Ghandruk from Tadapani is about 3 to 4 hrs by foot. The elevation of Ghandruk village is 1940 meters above sea level. Trek exceed all the way through dense forest and Bhaisi Kharka to reach Ghandruk Nepal.Easy Poon hill trek 4 days short Annapurna trek from Pokhara. Low altitude Tadapani to Ghandruk trek would give you uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range, and fascinating Gurung community villages surrounded by mystic clouds. Once we reach Ghandruk, we hit the road and continue our drive from there to Pokhara, which is a roughly 2 hour drive. We stay overnight in Pokhara.

Day 6

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu – Overnight in Kathmandu

We take a morning flight back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. And spend our last night in Kathmandu before our final departure.

Day 7

Fly out of Kathmandu

With a heart full of memories, we all depart from Kathmandu to our respective country.

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