Poon Hill
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking sunrise panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. A beginner-friendly trek.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour mountain magic
Poon Hill
Best Time
Golden hour mountain magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking sunrise panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. A beginner-friendly trek.
"The sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is absolutely breathtaking."
🎯 Wake Up Early for Sunrise
Leave Ghorepani before dawn to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. :sunriseovermountains:
👟 Pack Comfortable Hiking Boots
The trek involves stone steps and varied terrain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable journey. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise from Poon Hill
Poon Hill viewpoint
Witness the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges bathed in golden light. A truly unforgettable spectacle.
Ghorepani Village
Ghorepani village
Charming teahouse village offering stunning mountain vistas and a glimpse into local life.
Rhododendron Forests
Trails between Ghorepani and Poon Hill
During spring, these trails burst with vibrant colors from blooming rhododendrons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Poon Hill Views
Poon Hill Trek Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wake Up Early for Sunrise
Leave Ghorepani before dawn to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. :sunriseovermountains:
👟 Pack Comfortable Hiking Boots
The trek involves stone steps and varied terrain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable journey. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Bring a Headlamp
Crucial for navigating the dark path to Poon Hill for sunrise. :flashlight:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry enough water or be prepared to buy it at teahouses along the trail. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wake Up Early for Sunrise
Leave Ghorepani before dawn to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. :sunriseovermountains:
👟 Pack Comfortable Hiking Boots
The trek involves stone steps and varied terrain. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable journey. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Bring a Headlamp
Crucial for navigating the dark path to Poon Hill for sunrise. :flashlight:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry enough water or be prepared to buy it at teahouses along the trail. :droplet:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings are cold, but it warms up as the sun rises. Layers are key for comfort. :cloud:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Poon Hill is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making it a must-visit for its spectacular Himalayan panoramas. Trekkers highlight its accessibility for beginners and the rewarding nature of the hike, despite some challenging steps. The vibrant local culture and scenic landscapes add to its charm, though crowds can be significant during peak sunrise hours.
"A very good and fresh atmosphere. It's a tourist destination and from here the sunrise seems so beautiful. In the top you can buy a water bottle, coffee , hot chocolate and much more."
Abhinav Shrivastav
"Poon Hill offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas vibrant local culture and scenic trekking experiences. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers seeking stunning mountain vistas."
samir Gurung
"Poon Hill truly is a gem! The sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a perfect trek for beginners—short, scenic, and rewarding."
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most trekkers start from Pokhara. You can take a local bus or a jeep to Nayapul, which is the common trailhead for the Poon Hill trek. The bus ride takes about 2 hours.
While there are no direct flights to Poon Hill itself, some trekkers opt for flights to Jomsom and then begin their trek from there, though this is a different route.
From Pokhara, you'll typically take a bus or private vehicle to Nayapul or Hile, and then begin your trek towards Ghorepani. The journey involves a mix of driving and walking.
While it's possible to trek independently, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for navigation, cultural insights, and safety, especially for first-time visitors.
The trek to Poon Hill typically takes 4-6 days, depending on your chosen itinerary and pace. The actual hike to the viewpoint from Ghorepani is about an hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You'll need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). These can usually be obtained in Pokhara.
The ACAP permit costs around 3,000 NPR, and the TIMS card is about 2,000 NPR. Prices can vary slightly.
There isn't a separate entrance fee for the Poon Hill viewpoint itself, but the ACAP permit covers the conservation area.
It's best to arrange your permits and any necessary guide/porter services in Pokhara before starting your trek.
Poon Hill is accessible 24/7 for sunrise viewing, but the trek itself is best done during daylight hours. The viewpoint is always open.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Sunrise is the most popular and rewarding time to visit Poon Hill for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.
The Poon Hill trek is considered one of the easiest treks in Nepal, suitable for beginners. However, the final ascent to the viewpoint involves many stone steps.
Teahouses are available along the route, offering basic lodging and meals. They are a common and convenient option for trekkers.
Yes, solo trekking is possible, but it's advisable to have a guide for safety and to navigate the trails effectively.
Poon Hill itself is at an altitude of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet).
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Teahouses along the trail offer a variety of local Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat, as well as some international options.
Yes, you can purchase water bottles, coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks at teahouses and small shops along the trekking route.
Food prices increase as you ascend. It's advisable to carry some snacks from Pokhara, but expect to pay more for meals at higher altitudes.
Dal Bhat is a staple Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and often served with vegetable curry and pickles. It's hearty and nutritious.
Most teahouses can accommodate vegetarian requests, and many dishes can be made vegan. Dal Bhat is often naturally vegan or can be prepared that way.
📸 📸 Photography
The sunrise from Poon Hill is iconic. Also, capture the stunning mountain panoramas, rhododendron blooms (in spring), and charming villages.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can help capture distant peaks. Don't forget extra batteries, as it can get cold. :camerawithflash:
The pre-dawn light can be challenging, but the golden hour offers incredible opportunities. Experiment with different settings and be patient.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and conservation areas in Nepal. It's best to check current regulations before flying.
Sunrise offers the most dramatic light. Sunset can also be beautiful, but sunrise is the primary draw for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key considerations for families include ensuring children have appropriate footwear and warm clothing. Packing plenty of snacks and engaging them with the local culture can make the journey more enjoyable. The final ascent to Poon Hill involves many steps, so pacing and encouragement are important. Consider hiring a porter to help carry children's gear, making the trek less strenuous for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, packing some of your own snacks from Pokhara, and negotiating prices for guides or porters if you choose to hire them. While it's possible to trek independently, a guide can sometimes be more cost-effective if shared among a small group.
🧘♀️ Yoga & Wellness Enthusiasts
The serene mountain environment and the physical activity of trekking can be incredibly conducive to mindfulness and well-being. Many trekking companies offer specialized yoga treks, allowing you to immerse yourself in both the natural beauty and a practice of inner peace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Poon Hill Trek Experience
+1The highlight for most is the pre-dawn ascent to Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210 meters). Armed with headlamps, trekkers climb a series of stone steps to reach the summit just in time for a breathtaking sunrise. The panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges are simply spectacular, with peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri I often visible in the golden morning light.
Beyond the iconic sunrise, the trek offers a rich cultural experience. You'll pass through traditional villages like Ghorepani, where you can stay in cozy teahouses and interact with local communities. During spring, the trails are adorned with vibrant rhododendron blooms, adding another layer of natural beauty to the already stunning landscape.
The trek is well-marked, and while challenging in parts, it's manageable for most fitness levels, making it a truly memorable Himalayan adventure. Planning Your Poon Hill Trek
While it's a beginner-friendly trek, packing the right gear is crucial. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing (layers are key), a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and a headlamp for the early morning ascent to Poon Hill. Permits are required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. You'll need an ACAP permit and a TIMS card, which can be obtained in Pokhara before you start your trek.
While independent trekking is possible, many trekkers opt for a guide and/or porter. A guide can enhance your experience with local knowledge and ensure safety, while a porter can lighten your load, making the trek more enjoyable. Accommodation along the route consists of teahouses, which offer basic rooms and meals. It's advisable to book in advance during peak seasons. Remember to carry some cash, as ATMs are not available on the trek. Staying hydrated and acclimatizing properly, even on this shorter trek, will contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
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