Is the Poon Hill Trek suitable for beginners ?

Yes! This is the perfect trek for beginners and families. While there are some steep sections, most notably the 3,000 stone steps leading up to Ulleri, the walking days are relatively short, and the altitude is manageable for anyone with a basic level of fitness.

Do I need to worry about altitude sickness ?

The risk of altitude sickness on this trek is extremely low. The highest sleeping point is Ghorepani at 2,874m, and the highest point overall is Poon Hill at 3,210m, which is well below the danger zone for most hikers.

When is the best season to trek Poon Hill?

Spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms and autumn (Sept–Nov) for clear skies and panoramic mountain views.

What cultural experiences can I expect?

Trekkers visit Gurung and Magar villages, observe local farming practices, and experience traditional homestays.

What should I pack for the morning hike to Poon Hill ?

You will be hiking up to the viewpoint before dawn, so it will be quite cold. We recommend a warm down jacket, a beanie, gloves, and a headlamp to light the trail.

Poon Hill Trek Poon Hill Trek

Witness the Himalayas bathed in morning gold with Lynx Adventure Tour. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is Nepal’s most beloved short trek, offering maximum scenery with minimal altitude. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first Himalayan experience, a family seeking a memorable adventure, or a traveler short on time, this trek delivers world-class views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges without the grueling demands of a base camp expedition.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

The trail begins just a short drive from the lakeside city of Pokhara. You will trek through charming Gurung and Magar villages, cross suspension bridges over rushing rivers, and climb the famous stone staircases of Ulleri. In the spring, the path is ablaze with vibrant pink and red rhododendron blooms.

The undisputed climax of the journey is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m). Standing at this famous viewpoint as the sun rises over Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri is an experience you will never forget.

Quick Trip Facts

Duration: 6 Days (Customizable)
Maximum Altitude: 3,210m (Poon Hill Viewpoint)
Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
Start/End Point: Nayapul (1.5 hours drive from Pokhara)
Best Season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Accommodation: Comfortable Mountain Teahouses
Highlights: The golden sunrise from Poon Hill, wandering through the world’s largest rhododendron forests, and experiencing authentic Gurung culture in Ghandruk.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Elevation: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Description: Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, you will have a pre-trek briefing to discuss the adventure ahead. The evening is yours to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Thamel.

Day 2 :

Drive to Pokhara

Elevation: 800 m / 2,624 ft
Time: 6 to 8 hours drive
Description: We depart Kathmandu for a scenic drive to Pokhara. The road winds along the Trishuli River, offering views of terraced farms and small roadside towns. Upon reaching the lakeside city of Pokhara, you can relax by the water or enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake with the reflection of Mount Machhapuchhre in the distance.

Day 3 :

Drive to Birethanti and Trek to Ulleri

Elevation: 1,970 m / 6,462 ft
Time: 1.5 hours drive | 5 to 6 hours trek
Description: A short drive brings us to Birethanti, the starting point of our trek. We walk alongside the Bhurungdi Khola before facing the trek’s first major challenge: the 3,000+ stone steps up to Ulleri. The climb is steep but takes us through charming pastures and traditional Magar settlements.

Day 04 :

Trek to Ghorepani

Elevation: 2,860 m / 9,380 ft
Time: 4 to 5 hours trek
Description: Today’s trail is a magical journey through dense forests of oak and rhododendron. We pass through Banthanti and Nangethanti, listening to the sounds of waterfalls and birds. As we reach Ghorepani, the "Horse Water" village, we are greeted by massive views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna masses.

Day 05 :

Hike to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani

Elevation: 3,210 m (Poon Hill) / 2,600 m (Tadapani)
Time: 7 to 8 hours trek
Description: We start before dawn, hiking 45 minutes up to the Poon Hill viewpoint. From the top, you will witness one of the most famous sunrises on Earth. After descending for a hearty breakfast, we continue our trek through deep forests and along ridges to Tadapani, a small settlement famous for its "touching distance" views of Machhapuchhre.

Day 06 :

Trek to Ghandruk and Drive to Pokhara

Elevation: 800 m / 2,624 ft
Time: 3 to 4 hours trek | 3 hours drive
Description: We descend through the forest to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village. After exploring the village’s traditional architecture and cultural museum, we take a final descent to the road head. A vehicle will be waiting to drive us back to Pokhara, where you can celebrate the end of your trek with a hot shower and a lakeside dinner.