Poon Hill + Annapurna Base Camp Trek-13Days

Trip Overview
Itinerary
Includes
Equipment List
Usefull Information
Fixed Departure
Video

Trip Overview

The Poon Hill to Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of Nepal’s most renowned and rewarding trekking experiences. This exhilarating journey takes you from the serene beauty of Poon Hill a vantage point with breathtaking sunrise views. To the dramatic and rugged terrain of the Annapurna Base Camp. However, for those seeking a deeper understanding and a more immersive adventure. let’s explore the intricacies of this incredible trek. Nepal’s Annapurna Base Camp trek is one of the most popular treks in the world. Located at the foot of the Annapurna Himal. Annapurna region mountain range extending from Lamjung Himal in the north to Kaligandaki in the west to Masryangdi in the east.

This trek passes through waterfalls, villages, farms, Rhododendron forests and mountain scenery. Annapurna Base Camp trek starts from Pokhara Lake City like other areas of the Annapurna region. While trekking, travelers pass through an abundance of variety of flora and fauna, amidst diverse cultural and geographical characteristics. On this trek we get to enjoy the grandeur of the Himalayas, including two mountains above eight thousand meters Annapurna 1st (8091 m). The splendor of nature and the hospitality of the locals make Dhaulagiri (8167 m) attractive. Imagine the company of some of the highest mountains on earth and the magnificence of the sunrise on top of the snow-capped Himalayas.

While the Poon Hill to Annapurna Base Camp Trek is already a remarkable adventure, taking a deeper dive into the trek allows for a more profound understanding of the natural beauty, culture, and terrain of the Annapurna region. This immersive exploration of the trek will undoubtedly create lasting memories and leave you with a profound appreciation for the Himalayas of Nepal.Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a relatively short trek that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as the beautiful rhododendron forests. Here are some key points about the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek:

1. Starting Point:The trek usually starts and ends in Nayapul, which is a few hours drive from Pokhara.

2. Duration:The trek is a relatively short trek, usually taking around 4-5 days to complete, depending on the itinerary and starting point.

3. Poon Hill:One of the highlights of the trek is Poon Hill (3,210 meters or 10,531 feet), which is renowned for its panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

here is the name list of the white peaks which you can see from PoonHill.
Dhaulagiri 8,167 m.
Tukuche peak is 6,920 m.
Dhampus Peak 6012m.
Baraha Shikhar 7.647 m.
Himchuli 6,441 m.
Nill Giri Himal 7,061 m.
Machhapuchhre 6,993 m.
Lamjung Himal 6 983 m.
Annapurna I 8,091 m.
Annapurna II 7,937 m.
Manaslu 8,156 m.

4. Villages:The trek passes through several charming villages, including Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk, allowing trekkers to experience the local culture and hospitality.

5. Rhododendron Forests:The trail goes through beautiful rhododendron forests, especially vibrant during the spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

6. Tea Houses:Accommodations along the trail are provided in tea houses, which are basic lodges offering meals and a place to rest.

7. Difficulty:The trek is considered moderate in terms of difficulty, making it suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness.

8. Permits:Trekkers need to obtain the

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card before starting the trek.

9. Weather:The best times to undertake the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is relatively stable and the visibility is good.

10. Trekking Itinerary:A typical itinerary includes Nayapul, Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, and Ghandruk.Before embarking on the trek, it’s advisable to check for any updates on trekking regulations, weather conditions, and necessary permits. Additionally, hiring a local guide and/or porter can enhance your experience and provide support during the trek.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) is a popular trekking destination in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers breathtaking views of several majestic mountains. Some of the prominent peaks that can be seen from Annapurna Base Camp include:

Annapurna I – 8,091 meters : Annapurna I is the 10th highest peak in the world and the main peak of the Annapurna Massif.
Annapurna South 7,219 meters : Annapurna South is part of the Annapurna range and is a stunning peak visible from the base camp.
Hiunchuli – 6,441 meters : Hiunchuli is a prominent peak and is also a popular trekking peak in the region.
Gangapurna – 7,454 meters : Gangapurna is another beautiful peak in the Annapurna Massif.
Machapuchare (Fishtail) – 6,993 meters : Although not climbed, Machapuchare is one of the most iconic and distinctive peaks in the region.
Tharpu Chuli (Tent Peak) – 5,663 meters : Tharpu Chuli is another trekking peak and is often climbed by trekkers in the Annapurna region.
Gandharvachuli – 6,248 meters : Gandharvachuli is a lesser-known peak but adds to the scenic beauty of the landscape.
Mardi Himal – 5,587 meters: Mardi Himal is a trekking peak and is situated to the east of the Modi Khola, across the valley from Hiunchuli.

These are just some of the notable peaks visible from the Annapurna Base Camp, and the panoramic views are truly stunning, making it a popular trekking destination for nature and mountain enthusiasts. Keep in mind that weather conditions can affect visibility, so the best views are typically during the clear seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Poonhill /ABC Trek Weather

weather at Annapurna Base Camp can vary depending on the season.General overview of the weather during different times of the year:

Spring (March to May):
Spring is one of the best times to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The weather is generally mild and stable.
Daytime temperatures at lower altitudes (1,700 meters) can range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius .
As you ascend, temperatures may drop, especially at night and at higher altitudes. It’s advisable to bring layers to accommodate varying temperatures.
Summer/Monsoon (June to August):
This period experiences heavy rainfall, and the trails can be slippery and muddy.
The views may be obscured due to clouds, and there is a higher risk of leeches in the lower elevations.
Trekking during the monsoon season is not recommended due to safety concerns.
Autumn (September to November):
Another popular trekking season, with stable weather and clear skies.
Daytime temperatures are similar to spring, and the nights may be cooler.
The visibility is excellent, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Winter (December to February):
Winter brings colder temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
Daytime temperatures at lower elevations can range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius but it can be significantly colder at higher altitudes.
Winter trekking requires good insulation, warm clothing, and the possibility of encountering snow on the trails.

It’s important to note that weather conditions can vary. it’s always a good idea to check the latest forecasts before embarking on the trek. Additionally, be prepared for changes in weather, especially at higher elevations where conditions can be more unpredictable.

Highlights
                        Scenic mountain views of Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre
Experience of traditional Nepalese culture and hospitality
Sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill
Trek through diverse landscapes and terrains
Visit to sacred Hindu and Buddhist shrines
Unique flora and fauna of Annapurna Conservation Area.

                      

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 01 : Arrival at Kathmandu 1,350m

When we arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by Sawasdee Nepal representatives who will take us to our hotel as soon as we arrive at the airport. After checking in, we can take a rest or visit Sawasdee Nepal’s office. We may also stroll through the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Sawasdee Nepal. For dinner, you will be served excellent Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the country’s authentic food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 02 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m/2,690ft) 6-7 hours

We will head to Pokhara in the morning. The Prithivi Highway offers interesting scenery with mountains, rivers, waterfalls, forests, and villages. In Pokhara, the drive takes about 7 hours. After a rest you can walk around the lake side of the city to explore the surrounding areas.
Day 03 : Drive to Nayapul & trek to Tikhadhunga (1,540m/5,052ft) and take 4-5 hours trek

We take a 40-minute drive to Nayapul in the morning, and start the trek from Nayapul. Having prepared the luggage for the porters and prepared yourself, the trail leads to Birethanti along the river with an easy walk. Following a brief check-in process at the ACAP office, the trail leads to Bhurundi khola through some countryside villages all the way up to Tikhedhunga.
Day 04 : Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (3,194m/10,479ft) 6- 7 hours

Today we begin the long climb up Ulleri, which has steep 3200 stone slopes and a beautiful panorama of the valley and the Annapurna range. There are a few steps to climb, but this beautiful view gives you the strength to keep climbing. Shortly after leaving Ulleri, you will walk through a forest of rhododendrons, Nepal’s national flower. FromlowFrom Lowinger.wing,ail leads uphill to Ghorepani. The hilltop offers spectacular views of the entire Annapurna range and Mount Dhaulagiri.
Day 05 : Hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani (2,590m/8,497ft) 5-6 hours

After waking up early this morning and taking an hour-long walk to Poon Hill, you will witness an amazing sunrise. The trail begins steeply uphill through stone steps, and after a few ups and downs, you reach Deurali Fort through forested area. Following crossing of the bridge, we descend steeply to theriver..
Day 06 : Tadapani to Sinuwa (2,340m/7,677ft) 6-7 hours

After dropping down from the forest for a short time, you will walk down to the river and cross the suspension bridge at the bottom. You’ll then walk after a short climb. The trailrail continues to Chomrong and descends steeply to the bottom of the trail.then continue climb to Sinuwa.
Day 07 : Sinuwa to Deurali (3,230m/10,597ft) 6 hours

Enjoy a stroll through the forest, then head to Bamboo and continue climbing the mountain. The trail then leads you through the valley towards the Himalaya, where you can stop for lunch and then continue walking towards Deurali
Day 08 : Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,549ft) 5 hours

After climbing up through the valley to get to the Machhapuchhare Base Camp, you will take an hour rest before you head to the Base Camp. If you have no problem climbing up we do continue walking to Base Camp for overnight (If you have a problem walking further we should stop here for overnight.
Day 09 : Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo. (2,340m/7,677ft) 6 hours

After the morning excursion the trail drops down through the same valley to Deurali and continues downhill through the forest. There is an easy downhill which is not steep and has interesting walking. At the end we stop at Bamboo.
Day 10 : Bamboo to Jhinu (1,780m/5,839ft) 5 hours

After breakfast at the lodge the trail leads uphill through the stone steep to the ridge and an easy walk to Sinuwa. Following that, the trail drops down to the bottom of the hill and then climbs up to Chomrong. Following a lunch stop in Chomrong, the train descends steeply to Jhinu

Once you get into the Guest House, you walk 15 minutes downhill to the bank of the river where a hot spring is located to relax. According to Hindu mythology, when we take a bath we wash away our sins. After relaxing a bit, it’s a short climb to the lodge for overnight.

.
Day 11 : Jhinu Dada to Nayapul to Pokhara

At the last day of the trekking, we trek from Jhinu Danda about 6 hours to Nayapul where the trek ends. After passing Syauli bazazar, Birethanti we reach Nayapul then an hour drive will take us back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at a hotel in Pokhara
Day 12 : Pokhara-kathmandu

Morning we will drive back through the scenic countryside and en route we will stop for breakfast & lunch. It takes 7 hours back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu, your guide will transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore the region. You will stay in the hotel overnight and can extend your stay according to your interests and time.
Day 13 : Departure from Kathmandu

Your adventure comes to an end today. There is nothing to do but exchange emails with travel companions and organize photos. A representative from Sawasdee Nepal will escort you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight. On our way home, we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

What's Included

Included

All airport/hotel transfers
2 nights hotel in Kathmandu on B.B basis
Welcome and farewell dinners
All accommodation and meals during the trek
Domestic flights (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)/as trip plan
An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, kit bag/duffel bag, t-shirt, trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion
All necessary paper work and permits /TIMS Card
A comprehensive medical kit
All government and local taxes

Excluded

Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport size photographs )
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Excess baggage charges
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, wifi,extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
Tips for guides and porters

Equipment List

Poonhill -Annapurna Base Camp Trek Packing List

Documents

Passport
Travel insurance
Air tickets
Few passport-sized photos
Map

Clothing and Accessories

Sunglasses
Hat
Scarf
Masks
Neck gaiter
Lightweight thermal gloves
Lightweight towel

Down Jacket
Windproof and waterproof jacket
Windproof and waterproof trousers
Thermals
Sleeping trousers
Shorts
T-Shirts (full/half sleeve)
Underwears

Footwear

Socks
Walking shoes or sandals
Hiking shoes
Sleeping bag

Food & water

Snacks ( Crackers, Chips, Biscuits, etc)
Protein bars
Chocolates
Candies
Dry fruits
Your favorite coffee or tea bags
Water bottle
Water purifier

Personal Hygiene and Toiletries

Hand sanitizer
Quick drying towel
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Multipurpose soap
Deodorant
Nail clipper
Face wash
Body wash
Baby Wipes
Sunscreen with maximum SPF
Moisturizer
Small mirror
Feminine hygiene (Sanitary pads)

Other Essentials

Sleeping bag
Duffel bag
Backpack (45-60 litre)
Swiss knife
Trekking Pole or Stick
Portable charger / power bank
Books
A notebook and a pen is always useful
Binoculars
Alarm clock
Torch/Flashlight/Headlamp
Lighter
Insect repellent
Earplugs
Locks
Sewing kit
Card games (Uno, Skip Bo)
Board games (Ludo, Chess)

Usefull Information

Nepal Country Visa and Entry Procedure
Here are two ways to obtain a Nepalese visa. The first one is via the Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed in your country. As of the second way, you can easily obtain an On-Arrival visa at the entry/exit points stationed across the country. You can fill out an application form and provide the necessary documents to receive an On-Arrival Visa. Travellers can choose different visa types according to the length of their stay in Nepal.
The visa for 15 days costs USD 30, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Also if your visa is about to expire but you are not yet done exploring the country, you can get your visa extended for USD 3 per day and if your visa has already expired, it costs USD 5 per day. This information regarding updated Visa Fees is available at the official website of the Department of Immigration at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/post/notice-regarding-visa-fee-updates.
You can also head to the following link for more information regarding Tourist visas in Nepal. http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa

How to reach Nepal?
International flights are only available through the only International airport i.e. the Tribhuvan International Airport. If you are planning on travelling to Nepal by air then TIA is your only option. Flights can be boarded from India, Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur among many other destinations.
Travelling by land you have two options, via India and China. There is also a direct railway line connecting India and Nepal along with several bus facilities for travelling across the border from India.
Travelling by road through India is the most easily accessible. You can travel to Nepal through Sunauli- Bhairahawa, Raxaul – Birgunj, Siliguri- Kakarbhitta, Banbasa – Mahendranagar, or Bahraich- Nepalgunj. Kodari and Kerung are two entry/exit points stationed at the Nepal-Tibet border.

Popular Destinations to Visit
There are numerous travel destinations in Nepal; each with a unique identity and story of its own. Kathmandu is one of such destinations, with dozens of sightseeing to do, eateries to try out, and handicrafts to shop. Next up is Pokhara which enchants its visitors with its serene lakes and the enthralling views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Fishtail ranges. Similarly, Lumbini, Chitwan, Bandipur, and Palpa are a few other destinations which are ripe for tours and leisurely vacations. Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park are two of the most popular destinations for jungle safari and wildlife exploration.
As for adventure sports, Kathmandu and Pokhara offer plenty of choices including rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and paragliding. Likewise, the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang regions stand out as prominent destinations for treks, peak climbing trips, and expeditions.

Things to do in Nepal
The nation is considered to be a paradise for trekkers and grants an exciting number of choices. On these treks, you will witness the grand views of the Himalayas and the cultural prosperity of the ethnic communities along the trails. Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two of the most

popular treks in Nepal.
For those who are not satisfied with just gazing up to the mountains, you can go for a mountaineering expedition and peak climbing. While expeditions take you to mountains above the height of 6,500 meters, the destinations of peak climbing trips are low-lying peaks which can be summited even by amateurs. Everest (8848m), Annapurna (8091m), and Ama Dablam (6856m) are popular expedition sites whereas Island Peak (6189m), Mera Peak (6476m), and Pisang Peak (6091m) are the notable peak climbing destinations.
Short tours and sightseeing in Nepal are also quite popular among travellers in Nepal. Likewise, adventure sports like rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, canyoning, rock climbing, zip-lining, and mountain biking are also among the things that can be done in Nepal.

Trekking Seasons in Nepal
The country lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct climates: spring, summer (with monsoon), autumn, and winter. Normally, the best time to trek in Nepal is in March-May (spring) when the skies are clear, trails are filled with blooming flora, and the temperature is just right.
Another appropriate season is mid-September to November (autumn), during which the temperature is moderate, skies are clear, and mountain views are stunning. The summer season (June – August) is occupied by heavy rainfall increasing the chances of landslides in the hills, while the winter season brings in harsh weather conditions and extreme cold. However, there are treks which can be done during winter and monsoon as well.
Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang regions lie in the rain-shadow area so, they are ideal trek destinations during monsoon. Likewise, easy and low-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poonhill and Tamang Heritage Trek are perfect during the winter season.

Altitude Sickness
While trekking in Nepal is extremely satisfying, altitude sickness might get a better hold of you at times. The air pressure and oxygen concentration decrease the higher you travel.
As such, altitude sickness is an illness that the human body suffers from due to these reasons. The symptoms of the sickness include lack of appetite, nausea, weakness, lightheartedness, sleep disturbance, tiredness, and headache. These symptoms generally appear when moving upwards of the height of 2,400 meters from sea level.
You can adopt different measures to avoid altitude sickness like a walk at a slow and steady pace, avoiding smoking, and stopping at different stations to acclimatize. Before beginning your trek, make sure you have a first aid kit with ibuprofen or paracetamol and Diamox. If anyone falls victim to altitude sickness, it is necessary to inform the trip leader and descend to a lower altitude. In extreme cases, it might also be necessary to perform Heli rescue and emergency evacuations.

Travel Insurance
Accidents can happen anywhere so, it is recommended for all tourists to get travel insurance before visiting Nepal. Depending upon the insurance policy and the company, the insurance will look after tragic like theft, loss or accidental damage of gears and other belongings, baggage, and medical emergencies. Likewise, the insurance should also include helicopter evacuation and any kinds of mishaps that might occur during adventure sporting like bungee jumping, rafting, and zip-lining. No one is capable of foreseeing the accidents, but each individual can buy themselves an insurance policy to lessen the effects of the accident.

Meals and Accommodations
In major cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu, you will get multiple options to choose from, from cheap lodges to extravagant 5 stars hotels. Likewise, you will also get to choose from a wide range of cuisines while in the major cities. However, once you move away from the cities, the options for meals and accommodations in Nepal will become limited. During the treks, the best accommodations available are lodges and teahouses. They provide basic facilities for dining and lodging. These places mostly serve traditional Nepali food “Daal Bhat Tarkari” (rice, pulses, and vegetables). Similarly, there are several other food varieties like Momo, Thukpa, and Thakali food available across Nepal.

Banking, ATMs, and Money in Nepal
Nepalese Rupees are the official currency of Nepal. The banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 whereas coins of 1 and 2 are available in Nepal.
While travelling to Nepal, banking and money exchange are not a huge deal in big cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu. When you head to rural areas, the availability of banks, ATMs, and money exchange booths becomes fairly scarce. So, it is best to withdraw enough cash and exchange the currency in major cities. You can also exchange foreign currencies for Nepali Rupees at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You need to be updated about the exchange rates which are available at the official website of Neal Rastra Bank at https://www.nrb.org.np/fxmexchangerate.php.

Internet and Communication
It is quite easy to access the Internet in Nepal. Using Wi-Fi is a widely used way to communicate and use the Internet. Wi-Fi is easily available in major cities and even in some remote destinations. When trekking to remote locations, Wi-Fi might not always be available; so, using cellular data is the best way to communicate over the Internet. You can buy a Sim-card in Nepal at a reasonable price which allows you to make an international call. Also, you can use mobile data while you are in the areas without Wi-Fi. Telephone, Fax, and newspapers are a few other forms of communication in Nepal.

Internal Flight Delays
Due to the geographical diversity and unpredictable climate in the Himalayas, internal flights are often delayed or cancelled. Weather conditions like heavy rainfall, storms, or fog can disrupt flights. So, it is wise to spare an extra day or two as buffer days, in case of flight delays and cancellations. Likewise, it is also necessary to note that the weather conditions are great during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. If you have enough time, you can also choose road transportation in such cases.

Health and Safety Including Traveling alone in Country
The country is very safe for all tourists and travellers. The country is not experiencing any armed conflicts, religious wars, or grave crimes. Travelling alone is also perfectly sage and you will find willing Nepalese to help you with your travel issues. We also advise solo travellers to inform their loved ones and authorities like local police about their travel destination and itinerary to remain on the safe side. However, there are many issues that you need to consider to trek alone. So, you should have ample knowledge and idea before going on a solo trek.
Likewise, there is a Tourist Police department in Nepal which looks after the welfare and safety of the travellers. You can learn more about them at the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board at https://www.welcomenepal.com/plan-your-trip/tourist-police.html.
In case of medical emergencies during your trek, you can visit the nearest health post which provides basic medical services. If the medical complication persists, you’ll have to head to the hospitals in towns and cities. Similarly, it is also necessary to follow a healthy and hygienic lifestyle when travelling in Nepal to stay fit and healthy.
Useful Nepali Phrases

English – Nepali
Thank You Dhanyabad
How are you? Tapaii lai Kasto Chha?
I am fine. Malai Thick Cha
Have you eaten? (used often as an informal greeting) Khanna khan nu bhayo?
What is your name? Tapako Naam ke ho?
Pardon me/ Sorry Maaf garnu-hola
I don’t understand Maile bhujhina
I understand Maile bhujhe
See you again