Annapurna Poon Hill Trek

Trekkers arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, at an elevation of 1,400 m (4,593 ft). Upon clearing customs and immigration at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative transfers the group to their hotel. The rest of the day is free for rest, acclimatization, and personal arrangements.

Kathmandu is a busy and historic city. Trekkers may explore the nearby Thamel district for last-minute gear, currency exchange, or dining. The trek briefing, if scheduled, typically takes place on this evening. All required permits and documents should be confirmed before the next morning.

The day begins with an early morning domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight takes approximately 25 minutes and offers aerial views of the Himalayan range on clear days. Pokhara sits at 822 m and serves as the main gateway to the Annapurna region. From the airport, the group transfers by vehicle to Naya Pul (1,070 m), which takes around one hour.

The trek begins at Naya Pul. The trail descends briefly to the riverside and follows a path to Birethanti (1,025 m), a small trade village at the confluence of two rivers. From Birethanti, the trail climbs gently through terraced fields and small settlements to Hille (1,475 m). Streams, waterfalls, and tropical greenery line the path, giving the lower section a lush character.

The route continues through Tikhedhunga, where a suspension bridge marks the start of a steep stone staircase. The ascent covers several hundred meters and takes roughly 40 minutes to complete. Trekkers arrive at Ulleri (1,960 m / 6,430 ft) for an overnight stay at a local teahouse lodge. Total trekking time for the day is approximately five hours.

The Ghorepani Trek begins in earnest on Day 3. The trail leaves Ulleri and continues uphill through a mix of farmland and forest. After a brief descent, the path follows a river for about half an hour before the main ascent begins. Long stone staircases wind past homes and tea stalls on the way up. The first clear view of Annapurna South appears partway up the climb.

The trail enters a wooded section with pink-flowering rhododendron trees and large bamboo groves. A stream marks the approach to Banthanti (2,300 m), a small cluster of teahouses in the forest. Beyond Banthanti, the jungle thickens with mossy trees and dense vegetation. The path follows a narrow valley upward with more stone steps before opening out at Nangethanti (2,520 m).

From Nangethanti, one more hour of steady climbing leads to Ghorepani (2,860 m / 9,383 ft). Ghorepani is a well-developed teahouse settlement sitting on a ridge. It serves as the main base for the pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill. Trekkers settle into their lodge, have dinner early, and prepare for an early start the next morning. Trekking time is approximately five hours.

Trekkers rise before dawn and begin the 45-minute hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m / 10,531 ft). The trail climbs steeply through rhododendron forest and emerges at a viewpoint tower at the summit. Poon Hill is the signature highlight of the Annapurna Poon Hill Trek. At sunrise, the view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range spread across the entire northern horizon.

The panorama from Poon Hill includes Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range stretches from east to west in an unbroken line. Trekkers return to Ghorepani after sunrise to collect their packs and eat breakfast at the lodge.

The day's main trek continues from Ghorepani toward Tadapani. The trail heads north along a forested ridge with open mountain views on both sides. After following the ridgeline, the path descends steeply down a muddy slope to a small settlement. It then drops into a narrow, heavily wooded gorge, where the trail follows a stream through dense undergrowth.

The gorge eventually widens and opens to a broader valley. The trail climbs one final section through dense forest before reaching Tadapani (2,630 m / 8,628 ft). Tadapani is a small teahouse settlement perched on a hillside with clear views toward the Annapurna massif. Trekkers stay overnight here. Total trekking time for the day, including the Poon Hill hike, is approximately six to seven hours.

The final day of trekking descends from Tadapani to the well-known Gurung village of Ghandruk. The trail contours along a forested hillside with gradual and some steep downhill sections. Trekkers pass through the small settlement of Bhaisi Kharka, where two separate routes to Ghandruk converge. The path continues downhill, crosses a stream, and enters Ghandruk from the northern edge of the village.

Ghandruk sits at 1,940 m (6,365 ft) and is one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. It has grown prosperous over generations, largely through the pensions of retired Gurkha soldiers who settled here. The village features traditional stone-paved lanes, slate-roofed homes, and well-maintained gardens. Trekkers can visit the local Gurung museum and the ACAP information office in the village.

From Ghandruk, the views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) are dramatic and close. After exploring the village, the group drives to Pokhara. The drive from the nearest road access point takes approximately one hour. Trekkers check into their hotel in Pokhara for an overnight stay. Trekking time on this day is approximately three hours.

Pokhara (822 m) is Nepal's second largest city and a major hub for Annapurna region trekkers. The city sits beside Phewa Lake and offers clear views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks on good days. Day 6 is a free day for rest and optional sightseeing. Trekkers can explore the city at their own pace or join a guided half-day tour of the main attractions.

Key sightseeing options in Pokhara include a boat ride on Phewa Lake and a visit to the Barahi Temple on its island. The International Mountain Museum offers detailed exhibits on Himalayan peaks and climbing history. The World Peace Pagoda, perched on a hill south of the lake, provides a panoramic view of both the city and the surrounding mountains.

The Seti Gorge and Devi's Fall waterfall are also popular day trip sites close to the city center. The Lakeside area, known as Baidam, has numerous restaurants, shops, and cafes catering to trekkers. Trekkers may use this day to sort gear, purchase souvenirs, or simply relax after completing the Annapurna Poon Hill Trek circuit.

The group checks out of the hotel and transfers to Pokhara Airport for the return domestic flight to Kathmandu. The flight departs in the morning and takes approximately 25 minutes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, trekkers transfer to their hotel. The remainder of the day is free for shopping, city sightseeing, or personal activities.

Kathmandu's Thamel district remains the most popular area for last-day shopping and dining. World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) are within easy reach by taxi or ride service. Trekkers who have not yet visited these sites may do so on this free afternoon before the final departure the next day.

Today marks the end of the Annapurna Poon Hill Trek program. You will check out of their Kathmandu hotel and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for their onward international flight. Transfer timing depends on the scheduled departure time and is arranged in advance.