The Poon Hill Trek is a spectacular short trek in Nepal that packs the best of the Himalayas into just four days. Starting and ending in Pokhara, this sunrise trek from Pokhara leads you through charming villages and lush rhododendron forests to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m)
From the summit of Poon Hill, you’ll witness an awe-inspiring sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges – a panoramic 360° view of snow-capped giants including Annapurna I (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m). Often known as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, this route is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and accessibility, making it an ideal adventure for trekkers with limited time.
Over four memorable days, you’ll trek through terraced rice fields, cross sparkling streams, and stay in welcoming teahouse lodges run by local Gurung and Magar families. The trail’s moderate altitude and well-maintained paths mean you can fully enjoy the journey without extreme exertion. Despite being a short Poon Hill trek, it offers an immersive Himalayan experience – from warm village hospitality to up-close vistas of iconic peaks.
Short and Easy Trek in Nepal
If you’re seeking the best short trek in Nepal that is beginner-friendly, the Poon Hill Trek is hard to beat. It is often praised as one of Nepal’s gentler trekking routes, perfect for families and first-time trekkers. The journey tops out at 3,210 meters, a relatively low elevation by Himalayan standards, so the risk of altitude sickness is minimal (more on that later). The trail itself is well-marked and maintained, with a gradual ascent spread over two days and a gentle descent thereafter. This means trekkers of almost any age or fitness level can complete the trek without difficulty, provided they can walk for a few hours each day.
What makes Poon Hill a short and easy trek in Nepal is its comfortable pace and good infrastructure. You’ll typically hike 4–6 hours each day over moderate terrain. The most challenging section is the long stone staircase to Ulleri on Day 1 (approximately 3,300 steps up) – a solid workout, but taken slowly, it’s manageable even for beginners. No technical climbing skills are needed; you’ll find plenty of teahouses along the route to rest and refresh. In summary, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek offers high rewards for modest effort: you get the sweeping Himalayan panoramas and cultural insights of a longer trek, condensed into a short trek in Nepal that’s accessible and enjoyable for novice trekkers.
Why Poon Hill is the Best Short Trek from Pokhara?
Poon Hill is often hailed as the best short trek in Nepal – and for good reason. Here are some key reasons why this 4-day trek from Pokhara stands out among other short adventures:
Spectacular Sunrise Panorama: Nowhere else on a short trek can you so easily reach a viewpoint like Poon Hill, which offers a 360° panorama of Himalayan peaks at sunrise The combination of convenience and WOW-factor is unparalleled.
Short Duration, Big Rewards: In just four days, you experience what many longer treks offer – mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and cultural encounters. This efficiency makes it perfect for those with limited time who still want the full Himalayan trek experience.
Easy Accessibility: The trek begins a short drive from Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure hub. No domestic flights are required to reach the trailhead (unlike Everest treks). You can start this trek the day after you arrive in Pokhara. Its accessibility also means if needed, help or amenities are never far away.
Moderate Difficulty – Great for Beginners: Poon Hill is widely regarded as Nepal’s best introductory trek. It’s short and easy enough for beginners or family groups, yet still provides the sense of accomplishment of trekking in the Himalayas. The lower altitude and established trails make it a safe, low-risk adventure for trekkers of all ages.
Cultural Experience: Along the way, you’ll stay in Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk. This trek gives you a taste of local mountain culture – from traditional houses and folk museums to the warm hospitality of teahouse owners. You might witness ethnic dances or try on traditional dress in Ghandruk’s museum. It’s a wonderful blend of nature and culture.
Budget Friendly Trek in Nepal: Poon Hill is a budget-friendly trek in Nepal due to its short length and the abundance of lodges (which keeps costs competitive). No expensive gear or permits beyond the basics are needed. Travelers often note that Poon Hill Trek 4 days cost is very reasonable compared to longer treks, making it accessible to students and budget travelers. (See “Poon Hill Trek cost” below for details on pricing.)
All these factors combine to make Poon Hill the best short trek from Pokhara. It’s a trek that fits easily into a Nepal itinerary, is kind to your wallet, and yet leaves you with lifelong memories of Himalayan sunrises and friendly villages. Whether you’re new to trekking or a seasoned hiker looking for a mellow excursion, Poon Hill delivers an outstanding experience.
Poon Hill Sunrise Experience: The Highlight of Your Annapurna Adventure
The pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill is the crown jewel of this trek – a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise experience that justifies every step of the journey. Early on Day 3, you’ll wake in the village of Ghorepani and set out with headlamps under the stars. After about an hour of uphill hiking, you reach Poon Hill in time for dawn. As the first light breaks, you’ll watch the sun rising above the Himalayan horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and gold. One by one, the peaks begin to glow. The golden rays of the sun striking the faces of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other surrounding peaks are a breathtaking sight. Trekkers often enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee at the top, savoring the moment as the mountains light up.
This Poon Hill sunrise trek is rightly famous; the viewpoint offers one of the most accessible panoramic vistas in Nepal. On clear mornings, you can see a long sweep of the Himalayas, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and the entire Dhaulagiri massif.
The view extends across dozens of peaks, a photographer’s dream and a spiritual experience for many. As you stand at 3,210m with prayer flags fluttering around, you’ll understand why this moment is the highlight of the Annapurna adventure – it’s a serene, beautiful reward after two days of trekking. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos, but also take a few minutes to simply live in the experience. Many travelers call the Poon Hill sunrise one of the most memorable mornings of their lives. It truly encapsulates the magic of trekking in Nepal.
Poon Hill Trek Difficulty: How Hard is This 4-Day Trail?
How hard is the Poon Hill Trek? In truth, it’s considered an easy-to-moderate trek by Himalayan standards. This 4-day trail does not venture into extreme altitudes or remote wilderness, which contributes to its reputation as one of the easiest multi-day treks in the Annapurna region.
The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210m, reached during a short pre-dawn hike. This elevation is below the usual threshold (around 3,500m) where serious altitude issues typically begin, so most trekkers handle it well. Additionally, the trek route allows for gradual acclimatization: you’ll climb over two days, giving your body time to adjust naturally to the thinner air.
The trail itself is well-trodden and mostly straightforward. As noted, the most strenuous portion is the ascent to Ulleri on Day 1, involving roughly 3,300 stone steps up from the valley floor. This can be tiring, but you can tackle it at your own pace with plenty of short breaks. Beyond Ulleri, the inclines are more gradual. Day 2 to Ghorepani is a gentler uphill through forests, and after the sunrise hike on Day 3, much of the remaining route is downhill or rolling terrain. Trekkers typically cover about 8–12 km per day (5–7 miles), which translates to 4-6 hours of walking with breaks. Good hiking shoes and a reasonable fitness level (ability to walk several hours with a light pack) are usually sufficient preparation.
Poon Hill Trek 4 Days Itinerary Overview
The Poon Hill Trek itinerary route map starts with the Drive of 1.5 hours from Pokhara to the trailhead at Nayapul (1,070m). Begin trekking through Birethanti and Hile, following a riverside path. On the first day, tackle the famous Ulleri staircase – around 3,000 stone steps leading up to the Magar village of Ulleri at 2,070m. The next day, enjoy breakfast with a view of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli from Ulleri. The trail continues ascending gently through oak and rhododendron forests. Pass through villages like Banthanti and Nangethanti. After about 4–5 hours of hiking, arrive at Ghorepani (2,875m), a picturesque village surrounded by mountains. If time permits, wander around Ghorepani to admire traditional Gurung/Magar culture and prepare for tomorrow’s early hike.
Wake up before dawn (around 4:00 am) and hike for about an hour to Poon Hill (3,210m) with your flashlight to catch the sunrise. Take in the unforgettable sunrise over the Himalayas, as golden light bathes peaks like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, and Machhapuchhre. After roughly 30–40 minutes enjoying the view, head back down to Ghorepani for breakfast. From Ghorepani, begin the trek towards Tadhapani. The path first climbs a ridge and then descends through forests via Deurali and Tadapani (2,600m). Savor a final morning in the mountains, with clear views of Annapurna South (7,219m) and Hiunchuli from Tadhapani. After breakfast, trek downhill through the forest to arrive at Ghandruk Village. Take a moment to stroll around Ghandruk after lunch and take a Jeep back to Pokhara to conclude the short trip.
Alternative Short Treks from Pokhara
Nepal offers several other short treks starting from Pokhara for those interested in different routes or who have a few extra days. Here are some alternative short treks from Pokhara that you might consider:
Mardi Himal Trek (4–5 days): A stunning trek that branches off from the Annapurna Base Camp trail, Mardi Himal takes you up to ~4,500m for close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurnas. It’s a bit more challenging than Poon Hill but rewards you with alpine terrain and fewer crowds. (Note: Typically 5 days, though some do a very short 4-day version starting higher up.)
Ghandruk Loop Trek (3 days): This is a shorter version that focuses on visiting Ghandruk village (1,940m). You drive to Nayapul and trek up to Ghandruk, spend a night enjoying Gurung culture and mountain views, then trek down. It’s an even easier trek, great for a taste of village life and Annapurna vistas in just a couple of days.
Dhampus & Australian Camp Trek (2–3 days): A gentle trek accessible directly from Pokhara. You drive to Phedi and hike up to Dhampus village and Australian Camp (a scenic viewpoint spot) for an overnight. Continue to Kande or even to Sarangkot for a sunrise over the Annapurnas. This trek stays under 2,000m but offers beautiful mid-hill scenery and sunsets.
Panchase Trek (3 days): A quiet trek to Panchase Hill (2,500m), which is another great viewpoint of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range. It’s an off-the-beaten-path option with tranquil forests, ideal for those who want solitude. The trail starts near Pokhara and can be done in three days round-trip.
Mohare Danda Trek (5–7 days): If you liked the sound of Poon Hill but want an eco-friendlier alternative with fewer tourists, Mohare Danda is a community-managed trek in the same region. It takes you to Mohare Hill (3,300m), which offers similar sunrise views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. This trek often spans around 5-7 days and focuses on homestays and local guesthouses, contributing directly to local communities.
Each of these treks has its charm. Adventure Great Himalaya notes that popular short treks from Pokhara include Ghandruk, Poon Hill, Khopra Ridge, Panchase, and Mardi Himal among others. Depending on your schedule and interests, Mountain Eco Trails can also organize these alternative routes. However, for a first-time visitor with limited time, Poon Hill remains our top recommendation due to its perfect balance of length, comfort, and view-to-effort ratio.
Poon Hill Trek cost 2025,2026
Poon Hill Trek costs start from USD 399 to USD 600 per person depending on the service you desire to have. Likewise, Mountain Eco Trails offers Poon Hill Trek cost based on the timing of your booking, your group size, your itinerary, and the services you prefer.
Booking Your Poon Hill Trek with Mountain Eco Trails
When it comes to organizing the 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 us via our website or email. We usually require a deposit to secure your spot and begin arrangements, with the balance payable upon 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.
