Poon Hill Short Trek 2024
Embark on a short yet adventurous trek in the Annapurna Himalaya. Trek to the famous viewpoint, Poon Hill, and spend a night in the picturesque Ghorepani village on our short Poon Hill trek 3-Days.
We have designed this budget-friendly & short venture in the Annapurna region that provides a peek into Nepali culture and lets you taste the adrenaline of trekking in the Himalayas. Short Poon Hill trek is an easy and short trek. The trail has the perfect balance of steep and gentle walks.
From Pokhara, the trail ascends 3,210 meters to a hilltop called Poon Hill. It offers sweeping views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and several other snowy mountains. The gentle pace of the trail through lush forests and remote mountain villages has won the hearts of hundreds of backpackers.
Throughout the Short Poon Hill trek route, you get to witness majestic views of the western Himalayan Mountains. Giant mountains surround the Ghorepani village, and the scenery from here is tempting, too. Likewise, you can see mountains like Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Tukuche (6,920 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Hiuncuhli (6,441 m), Baraha Shikhar, and many others dominating the lush green hills and valleys.
Another great side of the Poon Hill Short trek of three days is the lovely villages and the locals. During the trek, you pass by many settlement areas, including Tikhedhunga (1,480 m), Birethanti (1,263 m), Ulleri (2,070 m), and Ghorepani (2,874 m). People from numerous communities reside in these villages. You get to see the daily lifestyle of mountain people and interact with them.
Overall, the Poon Hill trek is an ultimate short trek and a must-do for everyone. In a matter of time, you can leave behind the chaos of Pokhara and hit the tranquil trail. On top of that, the trail is easygoing, so no preparation is needed at all.
Why go on the Poon Hill trek?
There are so many reasons that make the Short Poon Hill trek one of the best short treks in the Himalayas. Remember to appreciate this trek's experience just because of its quick itinerary.
We have mentioned some of the reasons that make the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek a must-do:
A quick escape into nature
You do not have to go on long, expensive, challenging treks to enjoy Nepal's natural beauty. And you certainly do not have to do those things to escape in the Himalayas.
The Short Poon Hill trek explores the lower belt of the Annapurna Himalayas, abundant in valleys, forests, rivers, waterfalls, and terraced fields. If you are in Pokhara, you are only an hour-long drive from the trail.
Explore the lower part of Annapurna Sanctuary
Ghorepani and Poon Hill are in the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail winds through the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is a protected area and home to a diverse species of flora & fauna.
The Short Poon Hill Adventure trek encompasses forested paths gleaming in a range of vegetation. Similarly, the chirping of birds and the occasional appearance of wildlife while trekking intrigues the trail.
Adventurous trekking route entire ascends and descends through lush woodlands
The short Poon Hill trekking route starts at Nayapul and goes through lush forests up to the highest point of the trek. Some part of the trail passes by dense forests. At the same time, some parts of the trail move along the foothills of lush green hills.
There are suspension bridges over rushing rivers and old wood bridges over small streams. You get to see stunning waterfalls and walk on long stone staircases. There are also a handful of steep uphill paths.
Picturesque mountain villages and the friendly locals
You pass by many fine rural villages while trekking to Poon Hill. The most famous one on this trek is Ghorepani village, surrounded by rhododendron trees and mountains. Every town welcomes you with a different vibe and scenery.
The locals in the lower Annapurna regions are from many cultural backgrounds. You get to see their different practices and lifestyles, living harmoniously with each other. The locals are friendly, so feel free to interact with them. Our guide will help you break the conversation. Most of the locals understand English thanks to the frequent tourist visits.
The famous viewpoint Poon Hill and the gorgeous western Himalayan Mountains view
Poon Hill is a famous viewpoint in the Annapurna region, situated over Ghorepani village at 3,210 meters. This viewpoint offers sensational views of the Himalayan Mountains from Annapurna to Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and numerous others. The top of the viewpoint also provides a glorious sunrise along with a breathtaking landscape.
Preparation for the Poon Hill hike
To prepare yourself for the Poon Hill hike, you can go on long walks and do cardio in the gym (if you are already exercising). Even though the Short Poon Hill trek is easy, you will have to walk 5 to 6 hours a day for three days. Therefore, you have to be able to walk that much. Your stamina plays a huge role.
The Best Season for the Poon Hill Trek
The Short Poon Hill trek is available throughout the year, but certain seasons offer the best experience. Let's look at the different seasons and their pros and cons.
Spring (March-May)
Spring is the best season for the Poon Hill trek. The mild weather and the clear skies offer unobstructed views of the mountains. The rhododendron flower (The national flower of Nepal) blooms in full during this time, which adds a splash of color to your journey.
However, spring is also the peak season for trekking in Nepal so that the trails can get crowded, and accommodations may be limited. It's essential to book your trek in advance during this season.
Summer (June-August)
Summer in Nepal is monsoon season. However, the Short Poon Hill Trek is possible and doable in the Summer season. The heavy rainfall can make the trails slippery and dangerous, and clouds and fog may obstruct the views. You must be more prepared when doing the Monsoon season trip.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is another popular season for trekking in Nepal, and for good reason. The weather is pleasant, and the clear skies offer stunning views of the mountains. The trails are also less crowded than in spring, making it an excellent alternative for those who want to avoid the crowds.
Winter (December-February)
Winter is the least popular season for the Poon Hill trek, but it can still be a great time to visit. The weather is cold, but the skies are clear, offering uninterrupted views of the mountains. The trails are less crowded, and Accommodations may be more readily available.
However, the temperatures can drop below freezing in Winter, so it's essential to pack warm clothing and gear. The higher altitudes may also experience heavy snowfall, making the trek more challenging.
What you need to Pack for the Poon Hill Trek
Regardless of the season, there are certain items that you should always pack for the Poon Hill trek. These include:
- Comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes
- Warm and waterproof clothing
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Trekking poles
- Snacks and energy bars
- Camera and extra batteries
- It's also essential to pack according to the season. For example, you may need lighter clothing in spring and autumn, while in Winter, you will require warmer layers.
Tips for a Successful Poon Hill Trek
To make the most out of your Poon Hill trek, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Start Early
The Poon Hill trek offers stunning sunrise views, so it's essential to start your trek early in the morning, which will also give you enough time to reach your destination before dark.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated during the trek is crucial, especially at higher altitudes. Drink plenty of water and use bottled or safe water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Take Breaks
The Poon Hill trek can be physically demanding, so it's essential to take breaks and pace yourself, which will allow you to take in stunning views and capture some photos.
Respect the Culture
As you pass through traditional villages throughout the trip, respect the local culture and customs, dress modestly, and ask for permission before taking photos of the locals.
