Eco-Tourism and Responsible Trekking
The Annapurna region is not just a trekking paradise – it’s also an ecologically and culturally sensitive area. Practicing eco-tourism is crucial to preserving this beautiful environment. Trekkers are encouraged to “take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints.” This means pack out all your trash (or dispose in proper bins in villages), and avoid single-use plastics. Instead of buying many plastic water bottles, carry a reusable bottle and use water purification tablets or a filter; many teahouses also offer boiled or filtered water for a small fee. Stick to the main trails to avoid damaging flora. During the spring bloom, resist the urge to pluck rhododendron flowers – let everyone enjoy them in nature.
Lastly, respect the culture and communities you visit. The villages survive thanks in part to trekking income, so try to buy local products (handicrafts, snacks, etc.) as a way to give back. A little Nepali language goes a long way – greetings like “Namaste” and “Dhanyabad” (thank you) will bring smiles. Responsible trekking is not just about the environment, but also engaging respectfully with local people and traditions. If you keep these principles in mind, you’ll help ensure that the Poon Hill trek remains pristine and welcoming for future travelers.
Travel Insurance and Safety
Travel insurance is a must for treks in Nepal, including Poon Hill. While this trek is considered safe and at a lower altitude, unforeseen incidents can happen – from injuries to illness or even flight cancellations. Good travel insurance will cover you for trekking up to 3,500 m (ensure Poon Hill’s altitude is within your coverage), and include emergency evacuation by helicopter if needed. Helicopter rescues in the Annapurna region can cost $5,000 or more, so you want that covered!
The Kind of Permit Card you need for the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Trekking in the Annapurna region requires a couple of permits, which you must have in hand before you start the trek. For Ghorepani Poon Hill, the necessary permits are:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Since the trek is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, all trekkers must obtain this permit. The ACAP is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board or the ACAP office in Pokhara or Kathmandu. The cost is NPR 3,000 per person (approximately USD 25) for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals. This permit fee goes toward conservation and development projects in the region. You’ll need to show your passport and fill out a short form to get it. Typically, your trekking agency arranges this in advance if you book with one – you’d just need to provide passport details and a couple of passport-sized photos.
To summarize: Yes, you need permits for the Poon Hill trek – specifically ACAP. Ensure you have them before hitting the trail. Mountain Eco Trails will take care of the permit cards before the trek, and the guide will handle it during the trek.
Gear and Packing Checklist for Poon Hill Trek
Packing smart is essential for a comfortable trek. The key is to bring enough to be safe and warm, but not overpack since either you or a porter has to carry it. Here’s a checklist and tips for what to pack for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek:
Clothing:
- Trekking Shirts: 2–3 moisture-wicking t-shirts (short or long sleeve). Avoid cotton as it soaks sweat; synthetic or merino wool is better.
- Trekking Pants: 1–2 pairs of lightweight, quick-dry pants. Zip-off pants are useful (convertible to shorts) for lower warm sections. Ladies might also use leggings/yoga pants (common on the trail).
- Base Layer (Thermals): 1 set of thermal top and bottom for cold nights or the pre-dawn Poon Hill hike.
- Insulating Layer: A fleece jacket or down jacket. Evenings and early mornings get cold (temperatures can drop near freezing at Ghorepani in peak winter). A lightweight down jacket is ideal – warm yet packs small. Many agencies provide a down jacket on loan if you don’t have one.
- Shell Layer: A waterproof/windproof jacket (rain jacket) is a must. Weather in the mountains can change fast – you might encounter rain or wind. Also pack waterproof rain pants if trekking in winter or monsoon season.
- Sports Bra (for women): Useful for comfort during long walks.
- Underwear: Enough for the trek (you can rinse and repeat). Quick-dry types are best.
Footwear:
- Trekking Boots/Shoes: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are recommended due to the uneven terrain and steps. Some trekkers use trail running shoes – those can suffice as well for this trail if you prefer lightweight footwear and have strong ankles. Just ensure your footwear has a good grip and you’ve worn them on long walks before (no brand new shoes!).
- Socks: 3-4 pairs of good trekking socks (merino wool or synthetic blend). Change daily to keep feet dry and blister-free. Also consider liner socks if you’re blister-prone.
- Camp Shoes/Sandals: After a day of hiking, you’ll want to get out of your boots. Pack a pair of lightweight flip-flops or sandals to wear at the teahouses and for bathroom/shower use.
Head and Hands:
- Hat/Cap: A sun hat or baseball cap for daytime to protect from the intense sun. And a warm beanie or wool cap for cold mornings and nights (especially for that Poon Hill sunrise waiting time).
- Gloves: Lightweight fleece gloves for cool mornings; if trekking in colder months (Oct–Feb), slightly thicker or waterproof gloves for Poon Hill morning are good.
- Sunglasses: UV-protection sunglasses are very important to shield your eyes from strong high-altitude sun and glare (especially if there’s snow on Poon Hill in winter).
- Buff/Scarf: A neck gaiter (Buff) or scarf can be multi-use – protect against dust, sun, and keep your neck warm in wind.
Equipment and Gear:
- Backpack/Daypack: If you have a porter carrying your main bag, you’ll still need a daypack (~20-30 liters) to carry water, camera, snacks, jacket, and essentials during the day. Get one with good shoulder support and a waist strap. If no porter, a 50-60L backpack should hold all your gear; make sure it fits well with good hip support.
- Rain Cover: A waterproof rain cover for your backpack (or use a large plastic bag inside as a liner) to keep contents dry in case of rain.
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended, especially for downhill sections to save your knees and improve balance. They are helpful on the Ulleri steps (both up and down). Poles are collapsible and can be stowed in your pack when not needed.
- Headlamp: A headtorch is essential for the pre-dawn Poon Hill climb and useful in teahouses at night (some have limited electricity). Bring extra batteries.
- Water Bottles/Bladder: Carry capacity for at least 2 liters. E.g., two 1L Nalgene bottles or a hydration bladder. This allows you to fill up and have enough between stops. You’ll drink a lot with the exertion.
- Water Purification: As mentioned, bring water purification tablets (iodine or chlorine dioxide) or a Steripen UV purifier. This saves money and plastic waste, letting you safely drink local water. Tablets are small and easy – just follow instructions on how long to wait.
- Sleeping Bag: Teahouses do provide basic bedding, but a good 3-season sleeping bag (rated to around -5°C/23°F) adds warmth and cleanliness. In peak seasons teahouses can be full and blankets scarce, so a sleeping bag ensures you stay warm. Mountain Eco Trails and other agencies often provide a sleeping bag on request if you don’t have one.
- First Aid Kit: Your guide will have one, but pack a personal mini kit: band-aids (plasters), Compeed/blister bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, any personal medications (e.g., altitude meds, painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol, anti-diarrheal, antihistamine for allergies, etc.), and a basic antibiotic in case of infection. If you have asthma, bring inhalers; if you have known allergies, carry an epinephrine pen, etc. Also, throw in some rehydration salts or electrolyte powder packets – useful if you get dehydrated or have minor stomach issues.
- Multi-tool/Knife: Not mandatory, but a small Swiss army knife can be handy (cutting moleskin for blisters, peeling fruit, etc.) – pack in checked luggage when flying.
- Locks: A small padlock for your duffel or backpack can be used if you want to secure your bag (most teahouses are safe, but it’s a good precaution for your peace of mind).
Toiletries and Personal Items:
- Toilet Paper: Not all lodges stock it in toilets, and if they do, it’s for purchase. Carry your roll or two for the trek.
- Hand Sanitizer: Crucial for cleaning hands when there’s no soap and water immediately. Use before eating or after using the toilet.
- Wet Wipes: Useful for a quick clean-up on days you don’t shower (or to wipe face/hands). Biodegradable ones are preferred.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF (30 or 50) sunscreen for your face and neck. Apply regularly, even if cloudy. SPF-rated lip balm to prevent chapped lips from sun and wind.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste, small soap/shampoo: Many trekkers bring a quick-dry travel towel as well (though for a short trek, you might not shower daily, but it’s good to have a small towel for face washing).
- Personal meds: As discussed in first aid, plus any specific ones you need (e.g., prescription meds – bring enough for whole trip!). Also consider Diamox for AMS prevention if advised by your doctor, and something for colds/coughs as cold air can trigger those.
- Feminine hygiene products: If needed – supplies might not be available along the trail. Pack out any used products in ziplock bags (do not leave in nature).
- Miscellaneous: Earplugs (if you’re a light sleeper – teahouse walls are thin, and roosters or yaks may wake you early!), an eye mask if you need darkness to sleep, a notebook/pen if you like journaling your adventure, and maybe a book or Kindle for evenings (though most are tired enough to sleep early!). Also a pack of cards or a small game can be fun with friends/trekkers in the dining hall.
- Bags: If you have a porter, typically you’ll put your main gear in a duffel bag (often provided by the agency) or a sturdy rucksack, and the porter will carry that. You then carry a daypack. If no porter, everything goes in your backpack. Either way, pack light. A typical target is to keep your gear around 10-12 kg or less, excluding water. Laundry can be done on trek in a pinch (or just re-wear – everyone does, it’s fine!). Pokhara hotels also offer laundry service cheaply for before/after trek.
Finally, don’t forget essentials like your passport, permits, enough cash, and a copy of your travel insurance details (and maybe a photocopy of your passport/visa stored separately in case). On the trek, ATMs won’t be available, so bring sufficient Nepali rupees from Pokhara for snacks, drinks, showers, tips, etc. (Small bills are useful.)
By following this packing checklist, you ensure you’ll be well-prepared for varying conditions on the Poon Hill trek – from warm sunny days to chilly mornings, from dirt trails to stone steps. Good gear can make the difference between an okay trek and a great trek. Once you’re packed, you can step onto the trail confident that you have everything you need for a successful journey to Poon Hill and back.
Accommodations on the Trek to Ghorepani
One of the pleasures of the Poon Hill trek is the teahouse experience. Unlike camping treks, here you stay in local lodges (teahouses) that provide both a bed and meals. Here’s what to expect:
Accommodation: Teahouses are simple, family-run lodges. In lower villages, they might be stone or brick houses; higher up, often wooden cabins. Rooms are typically twin-share with two single beds (with a foam mattress and pillow). Bedding (sheets, blanket) is provided, but it’s wise to use your sleeping bag for warmth and cleanliness. Rooms are unheated (except the dining area), and bathrooms are usually shared. Some lodges have attached bathrooms in a few rooms, but don’t count on hot showers everywhere. You may have a squat or western toilet, depending on the place, and a bucket of hot water shower available for a few-dollar fee. As you go higher, amenities get more basic (e.g. in Tadapani, expect simple conditions as it’s more remote).
Food Items in Ghorepani Poon Hill
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of food available on the trek. Each teahouse has an extensive menu (many dishes adapted to Western tastes). Standard items include: dal bhat (rice with lentil soup, curry, pickle) – highly recommended for its energy and endless refills! – plus noodle dishes, fried rice, momos (Nepali dumplings), pasta, soups, porridge, pancakes, eggs, etc. The “mountain rule” is that dal bhat gives you unlimited second helpings, so it’s popular among big appetites (“Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour” as the saying goes).
Breakfasts usually feature eggs (omelet, boiled, scrambled), Tibetan bread or chapati, pancakes, muesli, porridge, etc. Lunch and dinner menus overlap – lots of carb-rich options to refuel you. Don’t expect red meat (aside from occasional chicken) due to the difficulty of transporting fresh meat; most trekkers eat vegetarian on the trail, which is safer and fresher. Try local specialties if offered, like Gurung bread or nettle soup.
Hydration and drinks: Safe drinking water is critical. As mentioned, it’s best to use treated water. You can buy bottled water in lower areas, but as you go up it gets expensive and creates waste. Instead, ask your lodge to fill your bottle with boiled water in the evening (let it cool overnight) – some charge a small fee per liter. Water purification tablets or a Steripen UV purifier are very handy; you can fill from taps or streams (with your guide’s advice on sources) and purify yourself. Tea, coffee, hot lemon, and ginger honey tea are available everywhere – a hot beverage after a day’s trek is divine. Be cautious with alcohol during the trek; a beer in Ghorepani to celebrate is fine for most, but alcohol can dehydrate and affect sleep at altitude. Perhaps save the majority of celebrating for when you’re back in Pokhara.
Typical Day’s Eating: Breakfast around 7 am, lunch en route around 11:30 am–12:30 pm, and dinner by 6:30 pm or 7 pm. You’ll likely snack in between (bring some trail mix, energy bars, or buy a Snickers at a village stall). On the Poon Hill hike morning, you might have just tea and a biscuit before the sunrise hike, then a full breakfast after returning to Ghorepani.
Trekking Crew Member from Mountain Eco Trail: Guide
As of recent regulations, hiring a guide is now mandatory for treks like Poon Hill for foreign trekkers. But even without a mandate, having a guide is highly recommended for enhancing your experience and safety. Here’s what to know:
Guides: A professional trekking guide is typically an English-speaking (often other languages too) local expert who knows the route inside out. They will lead the way, manage logistics, handle permit checkpoints, and communicate with locals for you when needed. A good guide also enriches your journey with information about the mountains, culture, and nature – essentially turning the trek into an interactive tour, not just a walk. For example, they might point out the names of peaks as they come into view, tell you legends of the Gurung people, or identify a bird species chirping in the trees. If any problem arises (altitude issues, schedule changes, strikes, etc.), your guide will sort it out. They can also adjust the pace or plan as needed – e.g., if you’re struggling one day, they might suggest stopping earlier or rearranging the itinerary on the fly.
Mountain Eco Trails provides licensed, experienced guides who prioritize safety and client experience. They often have years of trekking experience and first aid training. Having that support means you can trek with peace of mind, focus on the scenery, and not worry about missing a turn or a teahouse booking. The guide will usually walk with you (sometimes staying a bit ahead to secure rooms in the next village during peak season).
Altitude Sickness and Health Considerations in Ghorepani
One reason the Poon Hill trek is considered relatively safe is its moderate altitude. The highest sleeping point is Ghorepani at 2,874 m (9,429 ft), and the highest point reached is Poon Hill at 3,210 m (10,531 ft). These altitudes are below the usual threshold (around 3,500 m) where serious Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) becomes common. However, altitude affects everyone differently, and even at these elevations, some mild symptoms can occur.
Symptoms to watch: At Ghorepani, you might feel a mild headache, slight nausea, or dizziness – common mild AMS signs. Poor sleep at altitude is also normal (you might wake frequently). Usually, these symptoms are alleviated by rest and hydration. The golden rule is if symptoms worsen or don’t improve after rest, don’t go higher. In this trek’s design, you descend after Ghorepani, which naturally helps any altitude issues.
To be safe, ascend gradually, which this itinerary does by spending a night at 1,480 m (Tikhedhunga), then 2,874 m (Ghorepani). Avoid any plan that pushes you from low altitude straight to Ghorepani in one day – that could be risky. Hydration is critical: drink plenty of water (3-4 liters spread throughout the day). Also, avoid alcohol and smoking, especially at higher altitudes, as they can exacerbate dehydration and AMS.
In summary: take altitude seriously, but don’t be overly afraid – this trek’s profile is one of the safer ones. Focus on common-sense health practices: good hygiene, proper hydration, gradual ascent, and attentive listening to your body. That way, you’ll stay healthy and strong to enjoy every moment on the trail.
Booking Your Trek with Mountain Eco Trails
When it comes to organizing the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, choosing the right trekking company can enhance your experience enormously. Mountain Eco Trails is a local Nepali trekking company (based in Kathmandu and Pokhara) that specializes in guided treks exactly like Poon Hill. Booking with a reputable outfitter like Mountain Eco Trails offers several advantages:
- Expert Planning and Support
- Knowledgeable Local Guides
- Eco-Friendly Ethos
- All-Inclusive Service, No Hidden Costs
- Flexibility and Customization
- Safety and Support
- Local Insight and Cultural Exchange
To book with Mountain Eco Trails, you can contact them through their website or email. Also, for the trip confirmation, we kindly request our clients to make an advance payment of 20% of the total cost, and the remaining balance can be paid after arrival. It’s recommended to book at least a few weeks or months in advance, especially for peak season (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr), to ensure availability of guides and any internal flights/hotels if needed.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, we invite you to join us for the Poon Hill adventure of a lifetime. Feel the thrill of that first Himalayan sunrise, the camaraderie on the trail, and the sense of achievement at journey’s end – all with Mountain Eco Trails by your side. Contact us today to book your Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and let’s start planning an amazing adventure in the Annapurna foothills. Your path to Poon Hill’s panoramic wonder is just a booking away – come trek with us, and discover the magic of Nepal!