notification-icon
Booking open for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 & 2027 View Dates

Poon Hill Short Trek – 2 days

Best Price Guaranteed, Easy to change Date, Instant Confirmation

Book This Trip
Trip Duration 2 days
Group Size 1-20
Maximum Altitude 3210 m
Difficulty Grade Easy
Start & End Point Pokhara/Pokhara
Best Seasons Mar-May & Sep-Nov

Trip Highlights of Poon Hill Short Trek – 2 days

  • Short 2 days Himalaya adventure at Pokhara to Poon Hill and back.
  • Minimal Poon Hill trek with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Hike through rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
  • Explore local mountain culture and the hospitality of the Gurung in teahouses.
  • Enjoy traditional Dal Bhat and Thakali food in small lodges.
  • Watch the golden sunset at Ghorepani and the stunning sunrise at Poon Hill.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding peaks.

Overview of Poon Hill Short Trek – 2 days

The Poon Hill Short Trek is a two day Himalayan adventure that has breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences in a short period of time. This trek begins and ends in Pokhara, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to experience Nepal’s stunning mountain landscapes.

You will walk through scenic hillside villages and rhododendron forests and catch the spectacular sunrise at the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. The shortest itinerary of the Poon Hill trek in the Annapurna region would be this one, but it will provide a comprehensive flavor of natural beauty and local Gurung and Magar culture of the region.

Although brief, the 2-day Poon Hill trek is packed with experiences. You will go on a personal jeep into the mountains, and then walk on groomed paths with the snow-crowned Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges frequently visible.

There are hospitable locals on the way to rest in small tea houses and have a delicious meal of Nepali cuisine, such as dal bhat (rice and lentils). This hike can be regarded as a comparatively easy one, appropriate even to beginners and families, and yet one that will pay off at the end with a big reward.

Poon Hill (3,210 m) offers a panoramic view of the high peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and numerous others.

On the first day of the Poon Hill Short Trek, you will arrive in the mountain village of Ghorepani in the afternoon and enjoy an unforgettable sunset over the Himalayas. The following day, an early morning walk takes you to Poon Hill just in time to see the sunrise cast golden colors on the mountains, a sight that is on every photographer and nature lover’s bucket list.

It is a popular trek due to its being one of the shortest treks to have such spectacular scenery in Nepal, and therefore it is a great way to see the grand views in Nepal with limited time. The trail is not as difficult as the other long trails that involve high altitude climbing, and it does not require any technical climbing skills; it can be hiked by anyone in good condition.

Altogether, the 2-day Poon Hill trek provides a good but compact trekking day. In a weekend, you get to hike in the cool mountain air, connect with your guide or porter, and get beautiful shots to remember. It is a great start to trekking in Nepal and will probably make you eager to go on more.

Above The Himalaya has designed this Poon Hill Short Trek package so that you can have the best highlights within the least amount of time. Prepare to spend two wonderful days of trekking, which will make your lifetime memories of Nepal mountains and Nepalese hospitality.

Itinerary of Poon Hill Short Trek – 2 days

DAY
01

Day 01: Drive to Ulleri and Trek to Ghorepani (2,880m)

Your Poon Hill Short Trek begins with a morning jeep ride from Pokhara to Ulleri, which usually takes 3 to 4 hours depending on road conditions.

It will save you the long stone staircases of the lower villages and make the walk easier to drive straight to Ulleri (1,960 m).

You will begin your uphill walk at Ulleri to Ghorepani. The stroll is expected to last between 6 and 7 hours at a slow pace.

You will traverse some of the most beautiful terraced agricultural lands, tranquil villages, and rhododendron-filled woods.

In spring, the trail is adorned with colorful rhododendrons. Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South can be viewed through the trees on a clear day.

In the late afternoon, you will reach the picturesque village of Ghorepani, which is on a ridge.

In case the weather is clear, then you will be able to see a beautiful sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

You will have a warm dinner in the evening at the teahouse and have a good sleep in the evening to hike in the early morning the next day.

Bus 3-4hrs drive
Accommodation Lodge
Meals B L D
Trek Distance 8 km
Trek Duration 6-7hrs
Altitude 2880m
DAY
02

Day 02: Sunrise at Poon Hill, Return to Pokhara

On the second day, you will wake up early around 4:30 AM and hike with a headlamp to Poon Hill (3,210 m). The steep climb takes about 45 minutes and is very rewarding.

On the viewpoint, you will have the sunrise over the Himalayas. The first light will hit the peaks and give you beautiful panoramic scenes of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other mountains around. This is a memorable experience of the shortest Poon Hill trek.

Then you will go back to Ghorepani to have breakfast after viewing and taking photos. After breakfast, you will walk down the forest and stone steps to Tikhedhunga.

The downhill is quicker and less difficult and will require approximately 4 to 5 hours. You will have lunch on the road.

A jeep will pick you up at Tikhedhunga or any other road access and drop you at Pokhara within a period of 3 hours.

At the end of the afternoon, you will reach Pokhara, and your short trek to Poon Hill will be completed successfully.

Then you will be free to relax, take a hot shower, and celebrate your good Himalayan experience.

Bus 3 hrs
Accommodation Hotel
Meals B L
Trek Distance 12 km
Trek Duration 5-6hrs

Trip Extension

Suppose you have more time in Nepal after this trip. In that case, we can help you to extend your trip by running different treks in Nepal, tours in Bhutan and Tibet, Jungle safari tours at Chitwan, Bardia, and other National parks, Nepal luxury hotel booking, Rafting, Ultra-light flights, or any other travel-related services. You can get more information here.

Includes/Excludes

What's Included?
  • Licensed trekking guide trained in high-altitude safety and first aid.
  • Porter to carry luggage (one porter for two people, on request).
  • Food, accommodation, insurance, and equipment.
  • Twin-sharing teahouse or lodge accommodation for 1 night at Ghorepani.
  • Meals from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 2, with choices at local teahouses.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
  • Guide carries a first aid kit and essential medicines.
  • Private jeep transfers Pokhara–Ulleri and Tikhedhunga/Ulleri–Pokhara.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Pokhara.
  • Pre-departure briefing and all official paperwork, including taxes.
What's Excluded?
  • Meals or services in Kathmandu and Pokhara outside the trek.
  • Extra drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks, or personal treats.
  • Travel insurance covering trekking, medical emergencies, and rescue.
  • Personal gear like sleeping bags, jackets, or trekking poles (rentable in Pokhara).
  • Transport outside the trek route.
  • Tips for guide, porter, or staff.
  • Any other expenses not listed in “Included,” including weather or schedule changes.

Weather and Season for Poon Hill Trek

Poon Hill Short Trek can be considered all year round; however, the selection of the season will significantly enhance your entire experience. The ideal season to the Poon Hill trek 2 days is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In the spring, you will have pleasant weather and rhododendron woods of every colour on the hillsides.

It is generally clear in the mornings and slightly hazy in the afternoons with beautiful mountain views. The season of autumn is characterized by stable weather and crystal clear skies following the monsoon season.

The season offers optimum visibility of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges that makes it a good season to be photographed and see the sunrise. Winter (December to February) is quiet and peaceful, with fewer trekkers.

Temperatures can drop below 0°C, and snow is possible at Ghorepani and Poon Hill, so warm clothing is essential. The scenery can also be fantastic on a clear day.

The time frame least advisable is June to August because there is a lot of rainfall, loose tracks, as well as cloudy weather, which might obscure the mountain scenery. Nevertheless, the terrain turns as green as it can be. In general, spring or autumn is the best time to enjoy the Poon Hill Short Trek as it is comfortable and scenic.

Food and Drink during the Trek

On the Poon Hill short trek, you will be served with simple, abundant, and freshly cooked meals at teahouses along the trail. The 2-day Poon Hill trek includes warm breakfasts, hearty lunches, and dinners to keep you energized during the walk. Dal bhat is the most widespread and popular dish and is made of rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and pickles.

This is a typical Nepali food that is healthy and offers great energy for trekking. Other alternatives available include noodles, fried rice, soups, pasta, momos, pancakes, and eggs. Vegetarian food is common and mostly suggested as fresh and easy to digest.

Lower villages probably offer meat dishes, though lots of trekkers choose vegetarian food during the trek. When it comes to drinks, you will have an option of ordering tea, coffee, hot lemon with honey, and other hot drinks that will keep you warm during colder seasons.

Staying hydrated is very important. Bottled water is available on the way; however, the higher the price you will find higher you go. It is possible to use a reusable bottle with purification tablets or a filter. Comprehensively, the food on the shortest Poon Hill trek is decent, and it is a part of the cultural experience of trekking in Nepal.

Altitude Sickness and Suggestions

Poon Hill (3,210 m) is at a moderate altitude. Most trekkers do not experience serious altitude sickness, but mild symptoms such as headache or dizziness may occur. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, and follow your guide’s advice to minimize risk. Altitude sickness is resultant when you become too swift in ascending and fail to give your body a chance to acclimate.

Symptoms are frequent, such as headache, dizziness, tiredness, nausea, and loss of appetite. As you will be able to acquire altitude at speed between Pokhara and Ghorepani, you need to walk slowly, take a lot of water, and not rush uphill.

Your guide will walk at a moderate pace and promote frequent pauses. In case you are experiencing any discomfort, you must report to your guide. An overnight stay in Ghorepani and a short visit to the peak in the early morning can reduce the chances of altitude sickness.

Alcohol and smoking should be avoided during the trek, as they can exacerbate symptoms. Dehydration and diet will also assist in adapting the body. Altitude sickness is uncommon on the shortest Poon Hill trek, but it is important to listen to your body. Most trekkers successfully complete this trek safely and comfortably with proper care and guidance.

Visa and Permits for the Trek

Valid Nepal tourist visa and trekking permits will be required before you begin the Poon Hill shorter trek. The tourist visa is readily available to most travelers at Kathmandu or at points of entry into the country.

Your passport must have a minimum of six months’ time left to expire. The visa procedure is easy and involves the completion of a form along with paying the visa fee. Carrying a passport-sized picture is advisable, though digital pictures are usually taken at the airport.

In the case of trekking permits, the Poon Hill trek for 2 days will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. It is a permit to walk and camp in the protected Annapurna area. You also require a Trekkers Information Management System card.

Such passes are inspected at various points of the trail. When you book your trek with Above The Himalaya, we will do all the permit formalities on your behalf with your passport details.

Regulations do not allow independent trekking without a guide anymore. To have the right permits in place and to be on the right side of the mountain, hiring a guide is a good idea. You can pay the minimum amount of attention to the short Poon Hill trek as your visa and permits are ready, and you do not have to worry.

Health and Safety

During the Poon Hill short trek, your health and safety matter very much. Though this is regarded as an easy and appropriate trek to get used to, some preparation will make you enjoy it even more. You must be fit enough and capable of walking for a few hours a day. Frequent practice or light exercise prior to the trip will render the trek easier.

You are expected to move slowly as you enjoy the journey and obey your guide. The path is mostly secure with a few stone steps and woodland trails, and you must watch your steps.

The weather in the mountains is highly unpredictable, and thus, a change in weather may occur within a short period. The layered clothes will assist you in keeping warm and staying comfortable. It is also significant to carry a rain jacket and use sunscreen. Stay hydrated and eat regularly to maintain energy.

Guides will carry a basic first aid kit, but you should bring personal medication and report any illness or injury promptly. The Poon Hill trek 2 days, is a secure and frequently used route, and local residents are welcoming and helpful. Following basic precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable trek.

Transportation

Poon Hill Short Trek transportation is easy and properly organized. Pokhara is the central point of the beginning and the end of the trek. You may fly to Pokhara via Kathmandu in a short domestic flight or by road in a number of hours by the tourist bus or a personal vehicle. The transport to the trailhead is included in your trekking program once you are in Pokhara.

The first day, during the Poon Hill trek 2 days, you will arrive at Ulleri or other villages by jeep starting in Pokhara. This journey typically covers three or four hours and goes through picturesque landscapes and along river valleys. The drive will save at least a day of walking and will make the trek more comfortable, although some of the roads can be rough.

Once the trek is over, a jeep will pick you up at the road access location and drive you back to Pokhara on the same day. Jeep transportation is the most efficient mode of transport that can be used in the shortest Poon Hill trek, and it is even appropriate to use by the travelers who have limited time. Every transport option will enable you to enjoy the trek without being stressed.

Travel Insurance

The Poon Hill Short Trek is a short and not a difficult trip, and therefore, travel insurance is highly advised, even though it is a short trip. With insurance, you will be assured of peace and financial security in case of an eventuality.

This policy should include medical care, emergency evacuation, hiking, and the summit of Poon Hill, which is the highest point in the trek. Though emergencies are uncommon on the Poon Hill trek for 2 days, except in case of major emergencies, the cost of helicopter rescue may be expensive without insurance.

It is also important to make sure that your insurance can cover the delay of trips, cancellations, and lost luggage. Flights and travel plans can at times be influenced by weather conditions in Nepal, hence this coverage comes in handy.

Never forget to bring a copy of your insurance and contact number during the trek in case of an emergency. It is also useful to give these details to your trekking guide or agency. Although you might never have to use your insurance, knowing that you have it gives you a sense of peace of mind and safety in that you can have the shortest Poon Hill trek ever.

Your Extra Expenses on the Trek

Most of the major expenses that the Poon Hill Short Trek package includes are permits, guides, accommodation, trek meals, and transportation to and out of the trail. Nevertheless, there are some extra personal costs you are supposed to make. These are your Nepal visa charges, travelling to Pokhara not included, and accommodation and meals in the cities before and after the trek.

Additional costs can be added to the Poon Hill trek, 2 days that include snacks, bottled beverages, hot showers, an electronic device charge, and internet access in teahouses. The cost of staying will rise with altitude, so it is prudent to bring in adequate cash in Pokhara, as there are no ATMs on the trail.

Guiding tips and porter tips are not included and are offered at your own will as a gesture of gratitude. It is also suggested to carry a little bit of extra cash in case of some unforeseen need. Altogether, additional costs on the shortest Poon Hill trek are small and can be handled by simple organization.

Language and Communication

During the Poon Hill short trek, communication is usually convenient and simple for any international visitor. The official language used in Nepal is Nepali, although English is also common in trekking regions, through guides and owners of lodges.

During the trek, you will have an English-speaking guide who will help you communicate. People are friendly and hospitable, and even a simple greeting like Namaste is well received.

Some of the villages have mobile phone access, but the signal is poor and unstable. Access to the internet is minimal and can only be accessed at specific teahouses at a minimal fee. It is also low-speed and is only applicable to messages and not browsing.

The Poon hill 2 days trek is very refreshing to many trekkers who choose to disconnect and enjoy nature. Your guide may help in emergency communication where it is needed. This shortest Poon Hill trek is the ideal place to take a serene break in the digital world.

Donts on this Trip

On the Poon Hill short trek, some simple rules will ensure a safe and respectful journey. Littering should be avoided, and you should always keep your trash until you can dispose of it properly.

Adhere to the local culture by wearing decent clothes in the villages, seek permission before taking photos of the locals, and avoid taking photos of elderly people. You must not neglect the symptoms of fatigue or soreness and need to alert your guide if you are not well.

Never walk off the tracks or alone, particularly in the early morning or in foggy conditions. Do not drink untreated water, and consume alcohol sparingly during the trek. Negotiating must be done in a nice and fair manner.

And, of course, do not hurry the experience. The Poon Hill 2 days trek is supposed to be at a slow pace. Being kind to nature, locals, and yourself will make the shortest Poon Hill trek more rewarding.

Trip Extension

You can easily add more days and make your Poon Hill Short Trek into a longer and more varied adventure, should you have more time. A common alternative is to keep trekking between Ghorepani to Tadapani and Ghandruk and make a three or four-day plan.

This will give you time to visit the classic villages and have more mountain views. Alternatively, it is possible to add the Poon Hill trek 2 days to other treks that are similar to it, like Mardi Himal or Annapurna Base Camp, in case you have additional days.

There are also other activities that you can do in Pokhara after the trek, such as boating, sightseeing, or adventure sports. Additional wildlife safaris or cultural tours in the other parts of Nepal can also be added. The shortest poon hill trek usually encourages the traveler to explore even more of Nepal. You can have extensions tailored to your interests and schedule.

Photography and Drone Rules

The Poon Hill Short Trek provides great photography experiences, particularly at sunrise at Poon Hill. Photography of landscape and village life is acceptable, but you should not consider taking photos of local people without seeking permission. Certain cultural places can prohibit photography, and therefore, it is best to listen to your guide.

In Nepal, the use of drones is controlled and must be approved by authorities and conservation offices. Flying drones without authorization is prohibited and could lead to a penalty or seizure.

Drones also cause disturbance to other trekkers and wildlife. Due to this reason, the use of drones should not be considered in the Poon Hill trek 2 days unless official approval is made. Considerable photography assists in the maintenance of the peaceful environment of the shortest Poon Hill trek.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

When it is your first trekking experience in Nepal, the Poon Hill Short Trek is a good option. To keep your backpack light, you should do some light exercise and carry only the necessary items. Comfortable and well broken-in footwear will also help to prevent blisters. Pacing and keeping hydrated are important in enjoying the trek.

Listen to your guide and obey local traditions and nature. Eat well and rest when needed. Spend time to appreciate the views and be in touch with nature. 2 days Poon Hill trek does not just focus on arriving at the viewpoint; it is also a journey that is to be enjoyed.

Through a positive attitude and basic preparation, your initial encounter on the shortest Poon Hill trek will be worthwhile and satisfying.

Most Asked Questions by Travellers

Poon Hill Short Trek is rated as moderately easy. It has a few steep uphill parts with the exception of stone steps, but the path is in good condition and secure. Walking hours are not so extensive, making it affordable to most individuals in their daily lives. This trek can be done comfortably by any person with basic fitness and a positive attitude.

Yes, this is a journey that is quite beginner-friendly. It is brief, maintains an overall low altitude, and does not necessitate any technical trekking proficiency. The route is popular among first-time trekkers due to its rewarding nature without being overwhelming. This should be okay, provided you can walk a few hours a day. There is no special training required in advance.

Yes, children over about 8 years and the elderly who are healthy can undergo this trek. The speed can be adapted to various ages. The trek has been successfully done by many families and senior travelers. It is advisable to walk slowly and take frequent breaks. A porter can help to make the journey more comfortable, particularly among older hikers.

The Annapurna region needs a licensed guide, which is strongly advised, convenient, and secure. A guide assists in navigation, permits, accommodation, and local knowledge. On a 2 day trek, a porter is not a necessity as you can carry a light backpack. But, when you feel like not carrying weight, a porter can be of great assistance. The guide and porter make the journey easier and more pleasant.

You should pack light and bring only essential items. It is important to have comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothes, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a hat, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a headlamp to hike in the early morning. There is also a need for a reusable water bottle and simple personal items. This trek only requires a small 20 to 30-liter backpack.

Accommodation is in basic local teahouses with twin beds and blankets. Bathrooms are simple, usually communal, and may include squat toilets. The lodges are not luxurious, yet they are usually clean and comfortable. Being in a teahouse provides you with a true mountain experience.

Ghorepani has electricity, and you can charge your phone or camera at a small fee. Wi Fi is also provided in a few lodges, but it could be slow or not reliable. The coverage of the mobile network is also small and only works in selected locations. Limited connectivity can be anticipated during the trek. It is part of the process of spending some time offline.

Teahouses along the trail serve water. You can purchase bottled water or refill your bottle with boiled water at a low price. We suggest that you use a purification bottle using tablets or a filter in a reusable bottle. Do not drink untreated water out of streams or taps. It is extremely essential to stay hydrated even during a short trek.

The trekking route does not have ATMs. You must bring a good amount of Nepali money for personal expenses like snacks, beverages, charging, and tips. A moderate amount typically suffices in a 2 day trek. Small denomination notes are quite handy. Before the trek, it is advisable to withdraw money in Pokhara.

Poon Hill is the highest point of the trek, and it is 3210 meters. It is the point where you will have beautiful sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It is not possible to see Mount Everest at Poon Hill as it is distant to the east. But you will have lovely mountains such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. The mountain sceneries are wonderful.

The trek is possible even in winter, between December and February. The nights are quite cold, and the temperature sometimes falls below 0 °C in Ghorepani. The trail can also have snowfall. Winter trekking may be very fun with warm clothes and the right preparations. Winter will have clear weather and fewer people.

Trekking in the monsoon can be done, but not in the best way. The trails may be muddy and slippery in case of heavy rain, and when the weather is clear, the view of the mountains will be covered by the clouds. In the forest, it is also common to find leeches. In case you want to trek during monsoon seasons you need to have good rain gear. A guide will assist in making sure that this season is safe and planned accordingly.

It is not feasible to complete the Poon Hill trek in one day. The distance and the elevation gain is too high to enjoy a single-day hike. You would also miss the famous sunrise, which is the major highlight of the trek. The 2 day itinerary will enable one to rest and enjoy. In a hurry, it would make the trek tiresome and less fun.

The typical 4-5 day Poon Hill trek incorporates additional villages such as Ghandruk. It enables a slower speed and cultural experience. The 2 day trek is a shorter variant where driving saves time. You walk directly to Ghorepani and Poon Hill and back. The same beautiful sunrise views are available in both choices.

A tip is welcome in case you are pleased with the service. A guide and a porter are usually charged a guiding cost of about NPR 1,000 and NPR 500 per day, respectively. This is fair and reasonable when it comes to a 2 day trek. At the end of the trek, they should be tipped in cash. The price may be changed at all times depending on your satisfaction.

In case you are not well or you are hurt, report to your guide. The guide will be able to give first aid and change the speed when it is necessary. In case of serious issues, they will organize to take you down somewhere safe. There is Relative accessibility of roads on this trek. Travel insurance is significant in situations where emergency evacuation is required.

You can leave your additional luggage at Pokhara. The majority of the hotels offer free luggage delivery to trekkers. Your belongings can also be secured by our company. Bring only what is needed during the 2 days. This makes trekking very convenient.

Poon Hill is popular in spring and autumn, especially at sunrise. Lodges fill quickly, but accommodations are arranged in advance. Winter and monsoon seasons are quieter. Even with some crowds, the experience is special.

Yes, vegetarian meals are easy to find. Dal bhat with vegetables is common. You can also get noodles, fried rice, soups, and momos. Food is fresh, filling, and available at all teahouses.

A sleeping bag isn’t required. Lodges provide blankets, enough for spring and autumn. If trekking in winter or if you feel cold easily, a sleeping bag or liner is useful. You can also rent one in Pokhara. For most trekkers, the lodge bedding is sufficient.

Reviews on Poon Hill Short Trek – 2 days

Be first to post a review in this trip.

Best Price Guaranteed, Easy to change Date, Instant Confirmation

Book This Trip
Book with Confidence
  • Flexible bookings and easy trip date changes
  • Personalized service and customized group sizes
  • Safe travels with owner-operated services and highly experienced guides
  • Best price guarantee for the most value for your money
  • Secure & easy online booking
Your Trek Leader

Trek Leader Enjoy Himalayan scenery with the help of Nepal’s best guides with Government license holders and got training in first-aid, our Trip Leaders, know where you’ll find the best photos, most fascinating wildlife, and the best stream crossings.

Trips for All

Divider
Private Trip
Peaceful tour with your travel buddy and guide
Small Group Travel
Travel with people having similar adventure dreams
Trips for Kids
Calling all young adventurers - join us for a journey of a lifetime!
Trips for Adventurers
Climbing & mountaineering adventures for thrill-seekers
Live Chat Support
Purushotam Timalsena
Purushotam Timalsena Travel Expert
We'll plan the perfect personalized vacation for you.
Request for Assistance ⮞