Poon Hill Annapurna Basecamp trek 12 Days
Poon Hill Annapurna Basecamp trek 12 Days
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WT-CODE 3155
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The Poon Hill Annapurna Base Camp Trek 12 Days is one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking adventures, combining the famous sunrise viewpoint of Poon Hill with the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp. This classic trek takes you through charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, cascading waterfalls, and the spectacular Annapurna Sanctuary, offering an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Unlike the standard Annapurna Base Camp Trek, this itinerary includes a visit to Ghorepani and Poon Hill (3,210m), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. From here, trekkers witness a magnificent sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges before continuing deeper into the Annapurna Conservation Area toward Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).
Throughout the journey, you will experience diverse landscapes, rich local culture, traditional mountain hospitality, and panoramic views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and many other Himalayan peaks.
This trek is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers looking to experience the best of the Annapurna region in a single journey.
Trek Highlights
Witness a spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m)
Reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
Explore the world-famous Annapurna Sanctuary
Enjoy close-up views of Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre
Walk through beautiful rhododendron forests
Experience authentic Gurung and Magar culture
Relax in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
Trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area
Stay in traditional mountain teahouses
Discover diverse flora, fauna, and landscapes
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Why Choose the Poon Hill Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
This trek perfectly combines two of Nepal’s most iconic destinations into one adventure. Poon Hill offers one of the finest sunrise viewpoints in the Himalayas, while Annapurna Base Camp places you in the heart of a spectacular mountain amphitheater surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.
The route provides an excellent balance of cultural exploration, mountain scenery, and manageable trekking challenges. Every day presents new landscapes and unique experiences, making it one of Nepal’s most complete trekking packages.
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Itineraries
Day 1
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m)
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The journey follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers through beautiful countryside, traditional villages, and terraced hillsides.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax beside Phewa Lake and enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. Pokhara’s vibrant lakeside atmosphere offers an ideal introduction to the Annapurna region.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 2
Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Ulleri (2,050m)
After breakfast, a short drive takes you to Nayapul, where the trek officially begins. The trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola through traditional villages and terraced farmlands.
Crossing suspension bridges and passing local settlements, you eventually reach the famous stone staircases leading to Ulleri. The climb can be challenging but rewards trekkers with beautiful mountain scenery and authentic village life.
Overnight in Ulleri.
Day 3
Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874m)
Today’s trek enters the heart of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail winds through dense rhododendron and oak forests filled with birdsong and wildlife.
During spring, blooming rhododendrons transform the forest into a colorful wonderland. As you gain elevation, magnificent views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli begin to emerge.
Arrive at the picturesque village of Ghorepani, one of the most popular stops in the Annapurna region.
Overnight in Ghorepani.
Day 4
Trek from Ghorepani to Tada Pani
Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) and Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
Before dawn, hike to Poon Hill to witness one of the most spectacular sunrises in Nepal. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the Himalayan peaks, stunning panoramic views unfold before you.
From Poon Hill, you can see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and many surrounding mountains.
After breakfast in Ghorepani, continue trekking through beautiful forests and ridgelines toward Tadapani. The route offers continuous mountain views and peaceful forest scenery.
Overnight in Tadapani.
Day 5
Trek from Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m)
The trail descends through lush forests before reaching traditional Gurung settlements. Chhomrong serves as the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary and offers magnificent views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
The village is known for its stone-paved pathways, terraced fields, and traditional mountain culture. Here, trekkers get their first real sense of entering the high Himalayas.
Overnight in Chhomrong.
Day 6
Trek from Chhomrong to Dovan (2,600m)
The journey continues deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail descends to the Chhomrong Khola before climbing through bamboo forests and subtropical vegetation.
Passing through Sinuwa and Bamboo, trekkers enter increasingly remote landscapes surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forests. The sounds of rushing rivers and waterfalls accompany the trail throughout the day.
Overnight in Dovan.
Day 7
Trek from Dovan to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m)
This is one of the most exciting days of the trek. The route ascends through Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before entering the breathtaking Annapurna Sanctuary.
The surrounding mountains grow larger with every step. Upon reaching Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers are rewarded with a magnificent 360-degree panorama of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tent Peak, and Machhapuchhre.
The feeling of standing in the center of this natural Himalayan amphitheater is truly unforgettable.
Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.
Day 8
Sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp and Trek to Bamboo (2,310m)
Wake early to witness sunrise over Annapurna I and the surrounding peaks. The changing colors of the mountains create one of the most memorable moments of the entire trek.
After breakfast, begin descending through the sanctuary. The return journey offers new perspectives of the landscapes and mountains you passed on the ascent.
Overnight in Bamboo.
Day 9
Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m)
Continue descending through forests and villages toward Jhinu Danda.
The highlight of today is the natural hot springs located beside the Modi Khola River. After several days of trekking, soaking in the warm mineral-rich waters provides a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate tired muscles.
Overnight in Jhinu Danda.
Day 10
Trek from Jhinu Danda to Pothana
Walking Duration: 5–6 Hours
Maximum Elevation: 1,990m (Pothana)
After breakfast at Jhinu Danda, the trek continues through beautiful terraced farmlands, traditional Gurung villages, and lush rhododendron forests. Along the trail, trekkers enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mountain. The route passes through peaceful mountain settlements and scenic hillside paths, offering an excellent opportunity to experience local culture and daily village life. After several hours of enjoyable walking, you arrive at Pothana, a picturesque village known for its spectacular Himalayan panoramas and peaceful atmosphere. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Pothana.
Day 11
Trek from Pothana to Dhampus Phedi and Drive to Pokhara
Walking Duration: 2–3 Hours
Drive Duration: 45 Minutes
Maximum Elevation: 1,990m (Pothana)
Today marks the final day of your trekking adventure. After breakfast, the trail gradually descends through beautiful forests and the traditional Gurung village of Dhampus, offering magnificent views of the Annapurna Himalayan range. The walk is easy and scenic, passing terraced fields, rural landscapes, and charming local settlements. Upon reaching Dhampus Phedi, you will board a vehicle for a short drive back to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you can relax by Phewa Lake, explore the vibrant Lakeside area, and celebrate the successful completion of your Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek. Overnight stay in Pokhara.
Day 12
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu through Nepal’s beautiful countryside. As the journey ends, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of the Annapurna region, its people, and its spectacular mountains.
Cost Includes
- All necessary trekking permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, the TIMS Card, etc.
- All accommodations during the trek
- Three meals a day during the trek
- Three cups of tea or coffee during the trek
- If and when available, fresh fruit would be provided
- Complimentary duffel bag, trekking map, down jacket, and sleeping bag during the trek
- Professional English-speaking government-registered and first-aid-trained local guide.
- First-aid kit
- Return travel by tourist bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Pokhara to Jhinudanda pokhara by bus or private jeep
- Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
- Rescue arrangements, if necessary
- All service charge and government tax or VAT
- Certificate of achievement, if needed
Cost Excludes
- International airfare and Nepal visa fee
- Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request. A porter will be provided for two people and it costs $300 in total including his salary, meals, accommodation, transportation, and insurance. That means $150 per person as per the itinerary.)
- Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
- Sightseeing costs in the city (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
- All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
- Tips for staff ( Guide And Porter)
This trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves daily walking of 5–7 hours through uphill and downhill trails, stone staircases, forests, and mountain paths. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but no technical climbing skills are required.
The highest point of the trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. Another major viewpoint is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters, which offers a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas.
The full trek usually takes 10 to 14 days depending on the itinerary, walking pace, and starting/ending points. A 12-day itinerary is most common for a comfortable experience.
Major highlights include sunrise from Poon Hill, trekking through rhododendron forests, visiting traditional Gurung and Magar villages, exploring the Annapurna Sanctuary, and reaching Annapurna Base Camp surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
Accommodation is mainly in local teahouses and lodges. Rooms are simple but comfortable, usually with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. Higher elevations have more basic facilities but offer an authentic Himalayan experience.
Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card. These permits are required for entering the protected Annapurna region and are usually arranged by trekking agencies.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and ideal trekking conditions. Spring is especially beautiful due to blooming rhododendron forests.
During the Ghorepani Poon Hill Annapurna Base Camp Trek, trekkers are provided with meals in local teahouses. The menu usually includes traditional Nepali Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, potatoes, eggs, pancakes, and tea or coffee. Dal Bhat is the most popular option as it is nutritious, filling, and often comes with unlimited refills, making it ideal for long trekking days.
While it is possible to trek independently in some cases, hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended. A guide ensures safety, assists with navigation, manages accommodations, and provides valuable cultural and historical insights about the Annapurna region. In many cases, especially for first-time trekkers, a guide greatly enhances the overall trekking experience and convenience.
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