Poon Hill Trekking

What is the Difficulty Level of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

The Poon Hill Trekking is widely regarded as an easy-to-moderate scale adventure. That’s the reason why it is a great trekking choice for beginner trekkers, those who are traveling with family and the trekkers with limited time on hand. This trek doesn’t reach extreme altitudes; the maximum Poon Hill Trek height is approximately 3,210 meters (10,531 feet), at the viewpoint itself. So, the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is minimal in this journey. That said, the trek does involve continuous uphill and downhill sections, which can be physically demanding.

You should expect to walk around 4 to 5 hours on each day's adventure across the steep ascents and descents, forested and stone-paved trails. So, at least a basic fitness is important for this trek. What makes this trek easier is the availability of the comfortable teahouse and the trails are well-marked. So, to conclude, the Poon Hill Trek itinerary 3 Days is accessible to most people with average fitness. However, it is not like a walk in the park either, so standard preparation is still recommended to make the journey enjoyable and memorable.

Best Time to Trek

The Poon Hill Trek Pokhara is a low-altitude trekking adventure that can be done year-round. But, the best seasons for ideal weather, clear mountain views and a comfortable trekking experience are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring is considered one of the most beautiful times to do the Poon Hill Trek. During this season, the trail comes alive with blooming rhododendron forest, especially near Ghorepani and Banthanti. Spring has mild weather, warm days and cool nights. The clear mornings and vibrant greenery charm every step of the trek.

Autumn is the most popular and peak trekking season in Nepal. After the monsoon season clears the dust from the air, the visibility is excellent. This season will offer crisp and unobstructed views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Niligir and other surrounding peaks. The daytime in autumn is sunny and pleasant, while the nights are chilly and refreshing, not too cold. This season also coincides with a major festival, adding immersive cultural flavor to the journey. 

Temperatures in Spring (March to May): 10°C to 20°C (daytime) and 0°C to 5°C (nightime)

Temperatures in Autumn (September to November): 10°C to 18°C (daytime) and 0°C to 5°C (nightime)

Off-Season Trek

Due to the low-altitude nature of the Poon Hill Trekking route, it can be done throughout the year. However, the off-season period does come with some challenges that the trekkers need to prepare for. Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, leeches on the trail and cloud-covered skies. During this season, the crowds thin out and the mountain views remain obstructed. You can still explore this majestic low-altitude trail in monsoon, but you will need to be prepared for the slippery paths and the unpredictable weather factors. 

As for the winter season (December to February), it offers clear skies and quiet trails. However, during this point of the year, temperatures drop significantly, especially at the higher part of the trail, like Ghorepani and Poon Hill. The mornings and nights can be freezing, snowfall is possible, but the trail remains accessible. If you prefer solitude and are prepared for the cold, winter can be a rewarding time to trek.

What to Pack for Poon Hill Trek?

Packing smart is one of the most crucial steps in preparing for the 3 Day Poon Hill Trek itinerary from Pokhara. Although this trek is relatively short and a moderate adventure in the Annapurna region, the weather variations, trail conditions and altitude changes demand a practical and well-thought-out gear list. The trail takes you through everything from the warm lowland valleys to chilly mountain mornings. So, if you are wondering about what to pack for Poon Hill Trek, you need to find a balance between comfort, protection and weight. 

Here is a well-rounded checklist covering all essentials with a breakdown into logical categories:

Clothing Layers

●     Quick-dry trekking t-shirts

●     Lightweight thermal tops

●     Thermal bottoms

●     Fleece jacket

●     Sweater

●     Waterproof and windproof shell jacket

●     Watyerproof trouser

●     Quick-dry trekking pants

●     Shorts

●     Warm leggings

●     Woolen hat or beanie

●     Lightweight sun hat or cap

●     Neck gaiter or buff

●     Thin inner globes

●     Warm fleece or wool gloves

●     Moisture-wicking undergarments

Footwear

●     Broken-in trekking boots (waterproof and with ankle support)

●     Comfortable sports or trainer shoes (for short hikes)

●     Lightweight sandals or camp shoes

●     Quality trekking socks (wool or synthetic blend)

●     Thick insulated socks

●     Gaiters (optional, but helpful for rain or dusty trails)

Personal Hygiene and Toiletries

●     Toothbrush and small toothpaste

●     Biodegradable soap and face wash

●     Quick-dry travel towel

●     Hand sanitizer

●     Wet wipes and tissue paper

●     Toilet paper

●     Sunscreen cream and lip balm with SPF

●     Small comb and nail clipper

●     Footpowder and perfume

●     Female hygiene products

●     Personal medication (if any)

Trekking Gear and Equipment

●     Comfortable backpacking with rain cover (25 to 35L)

●     Duffel bag (carried by porter)

●     Trekking poles

●     Headlamp with extra batteries

●     Reusable water bottle

●     Sunglasses with UV protection

●     Powerbank and portable solar charger

●     Universal adapter

●     Lightweight sleeping bag

●     Small padlock (for securing duffel bag or teahouse room)

●     Dry sacks or zip-lock bags

●     Small first-aid kit

Accommodation and Food During Trek

While trekking Pokhara Poon Hill, one of the most comforting aspects is that you can soak in the beauty of the Himalayas without the need for camping or carrying heavy loads. Along the trekking trail, you will find a network of friendly and locally run teahouses. These accommodating establishments offer warm beds, hotel meals and the welcoming hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.

While luxury may not be available everywhere, you will find simplicity, cleanliness and genuine care, which is exactly what most of the trekkers look for after a long day on the trail. Each village along the trekking route has teahouses that cater to the trekkers. These lodges are usually built from stone and wood and they have communal dining areas and simple private rooms. 

What to Expect for Accommodation:

●     Rooms: Twin-bed room with foam mattress, pillow and blanket (carrying your own sleeping bag is highly recommended, especially during colder seasons)

●     Bathrooms: Shared toilets (some western-style, others squat-type)

●     Showers: Available at most teahouses at an additional cost

●     Electricity and Charging: Is available but charged per device

●     Wi-Fi: Offered in larger villages for a small fee (expect slow speeds, especially during peak season)

Food on Trail: Simple, Wholesome and Filling

If you have any friends who have previously explored the Poon Hill Trekking route, then you might have heard them saying that the food is one of the most comforting parts of this experience. Yes, they are not fancy, but they are warm, nourishing and ideally tailored to keep trekkers healthy and energized throughout the day. 

There is a trick to preparing meals for trekkers in the high-altitude trekking routes. The semi-standardized measure that all the teahouses adhere to is curated specifically for the trekking needs; high in carbs, moderate in protein and easy to digest at higher altitudes. You can also play mix with the Nepali, Tibetan and Western-style dishes depending on your preference.

Breakfast Menu

●     Tibetan bread

●     Chapati

●     Pancake

●     Porridge

●     Muesli

●     Cornflake

●     Toast with butter, jam, peanut butter, or eggs

●     Eggs (boiled, scrambled, fried)

●     Hash brown or fried potatoes

●     Full breakfast set (usually with toast, eggs, potatoes, tea or coffee)

Lunch and Dinner

●     Dal bhat tarkari (steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable, pickles and unlimited refills)

●     Vegetable curry with rice

●     Aloo tama

●     Roti (Nepali-style flatbread) served with curry

●     Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup)

●     Sherpa stew (vegetables, noodles, cheese)

●     Tsampa porridge (roasted barley flour porridge)

●     Tingmo (steamed Tibetan bread)

●     Momo (veg, chicken, buff, fried, cheese)

●     Fried rice

●     Spaghetti

●     Macaroni

●     Chowmein

●     Spring rolls

●     Boiled potatoes

●     French fries

●     Papad

●     Soup (tomato, mushroom, garlic, lentil)

Beverage Options 

●     Tea (black, milk, ginger, lemon, malsa)

●     Instant coffee (black, milk, or sweetened)

●     Nescafé (when available)

●     Hot chocolate

●     Hot lemon

●     Boiled water

●     Juice (seasonal fruit or powdered)

●     Cold drinks (coca-cola, fanta, sprite)

●     Canned cold coffee

●     Energy drinks

●     Occasionally beer (Everest, Tuborg and Gorkha)

Drinking Water

You need to be very mindful about staying hydrated during the high-altitude treks. During the long hours of walking, you will lose a significant amount of water from your body. This doesn’t only make you susceptible to dehydration, but it can also trigger the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Fortunately, safe drinking water is easily available throughout the Poon Hill Trekking route. Though you need to be careful about where to get it and how to treat it safely.

Water Source Along the Route

➔   Public Water Taps: Available at the villages and rest stops

➔   Teahouses: They offer refills of boiled water (usually for a small fee)

➔   Streams and Natural Springs: Only some areas have safe stations (always treat before drinking)

➔   Bottled Water: Available for purchase in teahouses  and shops (not generally recommended due to environmental reasons)

Buying boiled water at the teahouses is an idealistically environmentally friendly and economical option. If you plan to fill your bottles at the clean water stations, make sure to use purification tablets, UV sterilizers, or portable water filters. As for the drinking quantity, aim to drink at least 3 to 4 liters per day. 

**Note: During the trek, make sure to carry at least two water bottles with 2 to 3 liters capacity. This way, you won’t run out of water between the villages**

Training and Preparation

Yes, the 3 Day Poon Hill Trek itinerary from Pokhara is one more accessible and easy-grade adventure compared to the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek. But, still, if you are well-prepared for the journey, there will be no room to complain. The Poon Hill Trekking route does include long stair climbs, steep ascents and descents. So, if you show up well-prepared and ready, your body will most definitely thank you. 

You don’t need to aim for a mountaineer or an elite athlete level. But, do emphasize on moderate level of cardiovascular fitness, leg strength and endurance. Doing this will greatly improve your confidence and pace on the trail. We recommend that you train for at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trek. Focus on cardio workouts, leg and core strength and include stretching and balance exercises as well to prevent injury and soreness. 

Doing moderate-level hikes during the weekend is also one of the most efficient ways to prepare for this journey. But, do carry your backpack with you during the hike (5 to 7 kg preferably). By doing this, you will familiarize your body with uphill walking and it will also help you with acclimatization practice.

Poon Hill Trek Permit

Trekking Pokhara Poon Hill, it is essential to obtain an official permit as you will traverse inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. This permit helps to fund the conservation projects, support local communities and maintain the trail and infrastructure, due to which exploring this scenic route is possible. Yeah, you might be having thoughts like why this short and well-traveled route requires a permit. Well, it falls within the protected conservation zones and has nothing to do with the number of days.

Trekking without permits can lead to heavy fines or being turned away at the checkpoints. Here is the Poon Hill Trek Permit that you need to secure for this journey. 

➔   Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

This permit is obtainable from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in both Kathmandu and Pokhara cities. If you are doing this trek through an agency, they will collect the necessary permits on your behalf. You need to carry the ACAP Permit with you all the time and present it at the checkpoints. It's best if you keep photocopies and a digital backup of the permits as well. 

**Note: The permit for Poon Hill Hike Nepal is not issued at Nayapul or on the trail. You must obtain it in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek**

Is This Trek Suitable for Beginners?

To put it in simple words, unlike the major high-elevation routes in the Himalayas, the Poon Hill Trekking Route is one of the best beginner-friendly adventures. This journey is considered best for those who are new to high-altitude trekking or even hiking at all. But it doesn’t mean you can just show up unprepared. This mountain trekking route is definitely easy-going, but it still involves an uphill climbing route and altitude gain. So, if you are a beginner and not prepared on top of that, the journey can feel taxing.

In overall, this beginner and family-friendly adventure has a beautiful mix of manageable walking distances, comfortable accommodations and rich cultural experiences, all within a short timeframe. Here are the reasons why the Poon Hill Trekking route is ideal for beginners:

➔   Moderate Altitude: Maximum altitude on this trek is 3,210m (Poon Hill), which is well below the typical threshold for serious altitude sickness

➔   Short Duration: This entire trek can be completed within just 3 days, making it ideal for those going to the Himalayas for the first time or time-constrained travelers

➔   Well-Maintained Trail: Poon Hill Trekking route is part of the Lower Annapurna region, so the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, smooth as butter to navigate

➔   Comfortable Teahouse Accommodation: During this trek, you will stay at cozy teahouses that will accommodate you with warm food, clean beds and friendly hospitality, there is no need for camping or self-cooking

➔   Incredible Reward for the Effort: For a relatively short trek, the Poon Hill Trek offers fascinating rewards like an immersive cultural experience, stunning panorama, diverse terrain and a true mountain trekking experience without missing a beat

Trek Cost

One of the main reasons why the Poon Hill Trekking is so popular beyond its incredible mountain views is that the journey is very affordable and accessible. Even those traveling on a budget can enjoy this experience without the consistent worry about breaking the bank. The standard Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek price margin is approximately US$ 300 to US$ 450 per person. But, remember, this is just an estimation. The actual price can differ depending on your travel style, transportation, guide and porter, as well as the level of services offered.

The general Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek price of a package will cover expenses such as food, accommodation, permit, government-licensed guide, government tax, service charge, etc. At Eco Holidays Nepal, we are offering this remarkable Himalayan adventure at just US$ 320 per person. We believe that an unforgettable Himalayan experience shouldn’t come with a heavy price tag. At this price range, Eco Holidays Nepal guarantees a complete and worry-free Himalayan experience crafted with care, safety and local expertise.

Travel Visa

If you are wondering about the visa process for Poon Hill Trek Pokhara, don’t worry, getting a visa in Nepal is an easy and quiet straightforward process. All international trekkers besides Indians need to acquire the Nepal Tourist Visa for access into the country. Most travelers can obtain on arrival visa upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or overland entry points. As for the pre-arranged visa, you can apply for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. 

For your stay in the country, you can apply for three types of travel visas:

➔   15 Days Visa— US$ 30

➔   30 Days Visa— US$ 50

➔   90 Days Visa— US$ 125

In the context of the Poon Hill Trek Itinerary 3 Days, a 15 day visa is more than enough. But if you have plans to explore more of what Nepal has to offer, you can apply for the visa, being mindful about the timeframe. There is also provision for the visa extension process. If you want ot stay longer than your intended period, you can apply for a 15-day extension, which will cost US$ 45.