ABC trek via Poon Hill

Scenic Himalayan view from the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Poon Hill, featuring mountain landscapes and trekking trails in Nepal.
Trip Duration
8 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Transportation
Jeep
Max. Altitude
4130m
Departure From
Pokhara
Destination
Annapurna Region
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner during trek
Accomodation
Tea House

Trip overview

ABC trek via Poon Hill

The ABC trek via Poon Hill is one of the most beautiful and rewarding trekking experiences in Nepal. This classic route combines the famous sunrise viewpoint of Poon Hill with the breathtaking mountain scenery of Annapurna Base Camp, creating a perfect adventure for trekkers who want to experience the very best of the Annapurna region.

The trek takes you through picturesque villages, dense rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and stunning Himalayan landscapes. Along the way, you will experience the rich culture and natural beauty of the region before eventually reaching the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.Along the way, you will witness spectacular views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, and several other snow-capped peaks that dominate the skyline.

Unlike the standard Annapurna Base Camp route, this itinerary includes a visit to Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. The sunrise from Poon Hill offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range and creates an unforgettable start to your trekking adventure.

Whether you are an experienced trekker or visiting Nepal for your first Himalayan journey, the ABC Trek via Poon Hill offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and mountain adventure.

Trek Highlights

  • Spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill
  • Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
  • Stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain)
  • Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests
  • Explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages
  • Experience authentic local culture and hospitality
  • Walk through the magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Stay in comfortable tea houses throughout the trek
  • Suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness levels

Experience the Beauty of Poon Hill

Poon Hill is one of the most visited viewpoints in Nepal, and for good reason. Situated at an altitude of 3,210 meters, it offers one of the finest sunrise panoramas in the Himalayas.

Before dawn, trekkers hike to the viewpoint and watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the snow-covered peaks. The mountains gradually change color from deep blue to golden orange, creating a breathtaking scene that attracts photographers and nature lovers from around the world.

From Poon Hill, you can enjoy incredible views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and several other Himalayan peaks. This unforgettable experience adds extra value to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and makes the journey even more memorable.

Journey Through Traditional Villages

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill is the opportunity to explore traditional mountain communities.

The trail passes through charming villages such as Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali. These settlements provide insight into the daily lives of the Gurung and Magar people who have lived in the region for generations.

Along the route, you can interact with local residents, learn about their traditions, and enjoy warm hospitality in family-run tea houses. These cultural experiences add depth to the trek and help create lasting memories.

Walk Through Diverse Landscapes

The Annapurna region is known for its incredible variety of landscapes. Every day on the trail presents a new and exciting environment.

The lower sections of the trek feature terraced fields, waterfalls, and lush forests filled with rhododendron, oak, and bamboo trees. During spring, colorful rhododendron blooms transform the hillsides into a vibrant natural garden.

As you gain elevation, the landscape gradually changes into alpine terrain surrounded by towering mountain peaks. Rivers, suspension bridges, deep valleys, and rocky trails add variety and adventure throughout the journey.

This constantly changing scenery makes the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill one of the most visually rewarding treks in Nepal.

Reach the Heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary

Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters is one of the most rewarding moments of the ABC Trek via Poon Hill. Surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the world, the base camp sits within a spectacular natural amphitheater known as the Annapurna Sanctuary.

From ABC, trekkers enjoy close-up views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and other towering Himalayan giants.

Standing in the center of this magnificent mountain landscape is an experience that few places on Earth can match. The sense of achievement and the incredible scenery make every step of the journey worthwhile.

Best Time season for the ABC Trek via Poon Hill

Spring and autumn are the most popular seasons for this trek.

  • Spring, from March to May, offers pleasant temperatures and blooming rhododendron forests. The colorful landscapes create excellent photography opportunities and beautiful trekking conditions.
  • Autumn, from September to November, provides clear skies, stable weather, and outstanding mountain visibility. Many trekkers consider this the best season to visit the Annapurna region.

Winter trekking is also possible for those who prefer quieter trails and snow-covered scenery.

Why Choose the ABC Trek via Poon Hill?

The ABC trek via Poon Hill combines Nepal’s most famous sunrise viewpoint with one of the country’s most iconic trekking destinations. It offers a perfect balance of mountain scenery, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventure.

Trekkers experience diverse landscapes, traditional villages, rich local culture, and some of the most spectacular mountain views in the Himalayas. Whether your goal is to witness the sunrise from Poon Hill, explore the Annapurna Sanctuary. Or simply enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas, this trek delivers an unforgettable journey from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

The ABC via Poon Hill stands among the finest trekking adventures in Nepal. From the panoramic sunrise views at Poon Hill to the dramatic mountain scenery of Annapurna Base Camp, every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

If you are looking for a trek that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and Himalayan adventure, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill is an excellent choice. This remarkable journey showcases the very best of the Annapurna region and creates memories that will stay with you long after the trek ends. Feel free to you write us. 

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Itinerary

Journey begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Birethati, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The trek starts by following the beautiful Modi Khola Valley, passing through Birethanti checkpoint, terraced farmlands, charming villages, and suspension bridges.
The trail gradually ascends to Tikhedhunga, and for stronger trekkers, continues uphill via a long stone staircase to Ulleri, a traditional Magar village beautifully situated on the hillside. Along the way, enjoy your first close views of the Annapurna foothills.
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Overnight: Lodge in Ulleri

After breakfast, begin a steady climb through dense rhododendron and oak forests inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail is peaceful, shaded, and rich in birdlife, passing through small resting settlements such as Banthanti and Nangethanti.
As you gain altitude, spectacular views of snow-capped peaks begin to appear. By afternoon, arrive at Ghorepani, a lively mountain village renowned for its warm hospitality and panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Lodge in Ghorepani

Wake up early for a sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. Witness breathtaking panoramic views as the first sunlight illuminates Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, continue trekking through beautiful rhododendron forests and scenic ridgelines toward Tadapani. The peaceful forest trail offers stunning mountain scenery throughout the day.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours (including Poon Hill hike)
Overnight: Lodge in Tadapani

Today’s trail descends through dense oak, bamboo, and rhododendron forests to Kimrong Khola before climbing steadily to Chhomrong. Along the route, pass traditional Gurung villages and terraced farmland carved into the steep hillsides.
Chhomrong is a beautiful mountain village and the main gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary, offering magnificent close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Lodge in Chhomrong/Lower Sinuwa

Begin the day with a steep descent to Chhomrong Khola, followed by a long uphill climb via stone steps to Sinuwa. From here, the trail enters peaceful bamboo and rhododendron forests.
Passing through Bamboo and Dovan, continue trekking along the narrowing Modi Khola gorge surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. By afternoon, arrive at Himalaya Hotel, a small settlement nestled beneath towering mountain slopes.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Lodge at Himalaya

Today is the highlight of the trek. The trail gradually ascends past Hinku Cave and Deurali as the landscape transforms into a dramatic alpine environment. Continue to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m), surrounded by towering peaks and glacier scenery.
From here, enter the breathtaking Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater enclosed by Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) is an unforgettable experience with spectacular 360-degree Himalayan views.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Lodge at Annapurna Base Camp

Wake up early to enjoy a magical sunrise over the Annapurna massif as golden light touches the snow-covered peaks. After breakfast, begin descending along the same scenic trail through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, and Dovan.
The downhill trek is more relaxed and offers beautiful views of changing landscapes, forests, and river valleys before reaching Bamboo.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Lodge in Bamboo

Today's journey begins with a gradual descent through the beautiful forested trails of the Annapurna region. From Bamboo, you will pass through Sinuwa and the scenic village of Chhomrong, enjoying changing landscapes of lush bamboo groves, rhododendron forests, and terraced hillsides along the way.
The trail includes both uphill and downhill sections, with stone steps leading through traditional Gurung settlements and offering occasional views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. Upon reaching Jhinu Danda, you can take an optional visit to the natural hot springs located on the banks of the Modi Khola River, about a 15–20 minute downhill walk from the village, to relax your muscles after the trek.
After lunch, continue descending to the roadhead and drive back to Pokhara, bringing your unforgettable Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill adventure to an end. If time permits, a short visit to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk can also be arranged along the way.
Drive Duration: Approximately 1.5–2 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara
End of Trek

Included

  • All necessary trekking permits, including ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card
  • Experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide familiar with the region
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers; additional cost applies for solo trekkers requiring a personal porter)
  • All guide and porter expenses, including salary, insurance, equipment, transportation, meals, and accommodation
  • Private jeep transfer according to the itinerary.
  • Three time main course meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) selected from the lodge menu.
  • Fresh seasonal fruit served as dessert after dinner each day
  • Lodge accommodation during the trek.(Attached bathroom in the area where available).
  • Oximeter to monitor pulse rate and oxygen saturation during the trek for safety
  • All applicable government and local taxes

Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fees (15 days: USD 25–30, 30 days: USD 50–60)
  • Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara before/after the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Beverages such as soft drinks (Tea, coffee, Coke, Fanta, Sprite), beer, and bottled/mineral water
  • Snacks, sweets, and additional personal food items
  • Laundry services and hot showers during the trek
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and porter (customary and appreciated)
  • Any additional expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances such as landslides, adverse weather, health issues, or itinerary changes beyond our control.

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