Poon Hill Trek 5 Days with Kathmandu City Tour

Max Altitude

3,201m (Poon Hill)

Duration

8 Days (5 Days Trek + 2 Days City Tour)

Group Size

2-12 trekkers

Best Season

March-May, September-November

Difficulty

Moderate

Country

Nepal

Overview

The Ghorepani Poon Hill journey, also referred to as the Annapurna Sunrise Expedition or Annapurna Panoramic Adventure, stands as one of the most beloved and accessible hiking routes winding through the picturesque ethnic settlements of the Annapurna territory. Traversing through vibrant rhododendron woodlands, this Himalayan trek immerses you in mountain scenery while offering intimate encounters with indigenous traditions and ways of life. The defining feature of this expedition remains the magnificent vistas from the Poon Hill summit, celebrated among photography enthusiasts as a haven for capturing stunning images.

From this renowned viewpoint, you will behold a dramatic panorama featuring the towering Annapurna massif including Annapurna South, the main Annapurna peak, along with Annapurna II, III, and IV. The majestic Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Gangapurna, and the Manaslu range complete this extraordinary mountain tableau. The morning sun rising over these Himalayan giants creates an unforgettable spectacle that enchants every visitor who witnesses it.

Beyond the mountain scenery, this journey reveals stepped agricultural terraces, welcoming rural communities, verdant rice paddies, and the distinctive customs of the Gurung and Magar peoples who call these hills home. Ghorepani and Ghandruk represent two of the most significant Gurung communities in the region, offering travelers a genuine window into highland culture and daily life.

This comprehensive 8-day package combines the classic Poon Hill hiking experience with enriching cultural explorations in Nepal's capital city of Kathmandu, making it ideal for travelers who wish to experience both mountain adventure and urban heritage in a single journey.

Highlights

  • Experience a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise from the iconic Poon Hill summit at 3,201 meters
  • Behold panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu ranges
  • Explore the ancient Swayambhunath Buddhist shrine on a guided city excursion
  • Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist monuments in the world
  • Discover the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square with its medieval architecture
  • Trek through enchanting forests filled with blooming rhododendrons
  • Experience authentic Gurung and Magar highland culture in traditional villages
  • Stay in welcoming tea house accommodations along the trekking route
  • Journey along the scenic Prithvi Highway following the Trishuli River
  • Suitable for trekkers seeking a moderate challenge with cultural immersion

Your Journey

8 Days

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After settling in, embark on an afternoon sightseeing tour to the iconic Swayambhunath temple complex, perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu valley. This ancient Buddhist monument, also known as the Monkey Temple, offers magnificent views of the city below and an introduction to Nepali spirituality.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,400m

Meals

Dinner

Stay

Hotel in Kathmandu

Begin an early morning bus journey toward the Annapurna region, traveling along the famous Prithvi Highway that traces the course of the Trishuli River, a popular destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts. The scenic 9-hour drive passes through diverse landscapes before reaching Nayapul, the official starting point for your trekking adventure. From here, a gentle 45-minute walk brings you to the riverside village of Birethanti for your first night on the trail.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,050m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Tea house in Birethanti

Today leads you toward the charming highland settlement of Ulleri, a picturesque ethnic village with captivating views of the Annapurna peaks. The path winds through rural mountain communities where friendly locals welcome passing trekkers. A lunch break at Tikhedhunga provides refreshment before the trail ascends steadily toward your destination. Expect approximately 6 hours of hiking as you gain elevation through this beautiful landscape.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,070m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Tea house in Ulleri

After breakfast, cross a small stream near Tikhedhunga before tackling stone staircases that lead upward to the expansive Magar village at Ulleri. Continue through lush forests teeming with life, crossing sparkling mountain streams on your way to Nangethanti. The day concludes at Ghorepani, your staging point for tomorrow morning's ascent to Poon Hill. This approximately 6-hour trek rewards you with increasingly dramatic mountain panoramas.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,850m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Tea house in Ghorepani

Rise before dawn to climb to the celebrated Poon Hill viewpoint for an extraordinary sunrise spectacle over the Himalayan giants. Watch as golden light illuminates Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna massif, and Manaslu in a breathtaking display. Return to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast before continuing your journey toward Tadapani. The route passes through Deurali Danda at 3,090 meters, the highest point between these locations, as well as Ban Thanti, Thulo Odar, and Liui Kharka over approximately 9.7 kilometers of scenic trail.

Duration

-

Elevation

3,201m (Poon Hill) / 2,630m (Tadapani)

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Tea house in Tadapani

Begin with a descending trail offering continuous stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. A somewhat steep section leads to Kimche at 1,630 meters where a brief rest prepares you for the walk to Chane. Continue along prayer flag-adorned pathways into the traditional Gurung settlement of Ghandruk, one of the region's most authentic highland villages. After absorbing the village atmosphere, board a bus for the 10-hour journey back to Kathmandu.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,940m (Ghandruk) / 1,400m (Kathmandu)

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Stay

Hotel in Kathmandu

Dedicate this day to exploring the cultural treasures of Nepal's capital city with your knowledgeable guide. Visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest spherical Buddhist monuments in the world and a center of Tibetan culture in Nepal. Continue to the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, where ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards showcase the architectural legacy of the Malla kings who once ruled this valley.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,400m

Meals

Breakfast

Stay

Hotel in Kathmandu

Your memorable Nepal adventure concludes today with a private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Carry with you the unforgettable memories of Himalayan sunrises, traditional village life, and ancient temples that make this journey so special.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,400m

Meals

Breakfast

Stay

Not included

What's Included

  • Airport transfers upon arrival and departure in Kathmandu
  • All standard meals during the trek including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Twin-sharing tea house accommodations throughout the trekking portion
  • Ground transportation by bus as specified in the itinerary
  • English-speaking female trekking guide services
  • Porter services for luggage carrying during the trek
  • Guide and porter accommodation, wages, meals, transportation, and equipment
  • Complete insurance coverage for guide and porter
  • Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit
  • TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System)
  • Basic first aid kit with essential medications

What's Not Included

  • Beverages including soft drinks and alcoholic options
  • Hot drinks such as tea, coffee, and hot water
  • Bottled drinking water during the trek
  • Personal spending and souvenir purchases
  • Gratuities for guide and porter (appreciated but optional)
  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Comprehensive travel and medical insurance
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek
  • Any services not specifically mentioned in inclusions

Trusted By

Government of NepalNepal Tourism BoardNepal Mountaineering AssociationTrekking Agencies Association of NepalKEEP NepalTrustpilot