The short answer
It is the best-known short viewpoint trek in Nepal. A sunrise climb to Poon Hill (about 3,200 m) shows Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Machhapuchhre in one sweep, and the whole trip can be done in four or five days.
Key facts
- Viewpoint
- About 3,200 m
- Length
- 4 to 5 days typical
- Start
- Nayapul or Birethanti
- Season
- Spring and autumn
How it works
- Day 1Drive from Pokhara to the trailhead and walk up to the first village.
- Day 2Continue to Ghorepani, a larger village with many lodges.
- Day 3Hike to Poon Hill before dawn, then descend the other side.
Why Poon Hill is so popular
Poon Hill is the classic first Himalayan trek because it combines big views with a short time and moderate altitude. The sunrise from the viewpoint shows Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range in a panorama, with rhododendron forest and villages such as Ghorepani and Ghandruk along the way.
The path has many steps, which are the main challenge, and teahouses are close together, so you can walk at your own pace and stop for tea. In spring the hillsides turn red and pink with rhododendron blooms.
Planning a Poon Hill trek
Four or five days is the typical plan, starting near Nayapul or Birethanti and finishing in Pokhara. Carry a head torch for the pre-dawn climb, warm layers for the cold viewpoint and good walking shoes. A guide or porter makes the days more relaxed.
Go in clear months for the best views, and avoid heavy winter snow or the monsoon if you want a clear sunrise. Leave a spare day in Pokhara in case weather delays your start.
Insider tip
Because the sunrise ascent starts in the dark, carry a head torch and warm layers. The cold is a surprise to many first-time visitors.
Avoid this
Do not go in January unless you are prepared for snow and closed lodges.
Related questions
How hard is Poon Hill?
Moderate. The days are long but not steep for fit travellers.
Where can I read the full route?
Day-by-day detail is on the sister site Basecamp Hikes.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- Nepal Peaks and HeightsNamed peaks, heights and the best place to see each.
- Everest Trail StopsPhakding to Gorak Shep, Gokyo, the passes and glaciers.
- Annapurna Trail StopsUlleri, Ghorepani, Chhomrong, Jhinu and the sanctuary.
- Trekking and Expedition PeaksMera, Island, Lobuche, Pisang, Chulu, Yala and expedition peaks.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
