Poon hill Trek 1 Night 2 Days

If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Nepal’s most iconic mountain scenery, the Poon Hill Trek 1 Night, 2 Days promises a taste of Himalayan splendor wrapped in manageable steps. This tour, offered by Beyond The Limits Treks & Expedition, is designed for travelers wanting a quick yet memorable trek that combines stunning vistas, cultural encounters, and the thrill of sunrise over the Annapurna range.

Two things stand out about this experience: it’s short duration makes it perfect for busy schedules, and the panoramic views are genuinely breathtaking. You’ll get a chance to see the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and even the Fishtail (Machapuchare), all in just a few days.

One possible consideration is that, given the quick pace, you’ll need to be prepared for some moderate walking and altitude changes—this isn’t a leisurely stroll, but it’s well within reach for most hikers. This trek suits those who want a snapshot of Himalayan beauty without dedicating weeks or those who prefer a well-organized, guided experience with local cultural insights.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: Perfect for a quick Himalayan adventure.
• Stunning sunrise: The highlight is witnessing the sunrise over Annapurna from Poon Hill.
• Cultural immersion: Encounter Gurung and Magar communities along the route.
• Panoramic mountain views: See Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare.
• Value-packed: Includes guides, permits, accommodations, and transportation.
• Ideal for busy travelers: Offers a condensed but authentic mountain experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Consider the Poon Hill Trek?

This trek offers a rare blend of accessibility and authenticity. It’s geared toward travelers who want a manageable challenge with big rewards. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara, a city well-known for its lakeside charm and as a gateway to the mountains. From there, the journey moves into lush forests, ethnic villages, and finally the panoramic viewpoint of Poon Hill, which is celebrated worldwide for its sunrise vistas.

What makes this trek especially appealing is its value for money—at $350 per person, including most essentials like permits, accommodations, and guiding services, it’s an efficient way to get a taste of the Annapurna region without breaking the bank.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Pokhara to Ghorepani

The journey kicks off with a roughly 3-hour drive from Pokhara to Banthati by Jeep. This scenic ride takes you through the hilly landscape, setting the tone for the adventure. Once at Banthati, you’ll begin your trek to Ghorepani, a charming hill town sitting at 2,850 meters.

The trek from Banthati to Ghorepani takes about 4-5 hours and winds through forests of rhododendron and oak, depending on the season. We loved the way this section offers a gradual ascent with plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery and breathe in crisp mountain air. The guesthouses here are simple but comfortable, providing a cozy base for the night.

Day 2: Sunrise at Poon Hill & Return to Pokhara

Early risers will set out around 4:30 AM to reach the Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210 meters) in time for the stunning sunrise. As dawn breaks, you’ll enjoy a spectacle of light illuminating the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, with the Fishtail (Machapuchare) often visible nearby. We’ve seen reviews describing this as “one of the most breathtaking sunrises I’ve ever experienced,” and it’s easy to see why.

After savoring the views and taking countless photos, you’ll descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek down to Banthati over approximately 45 minutes. A Jeep ride will then return you to Pokhara, completing this short but intense adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Expect from This Trek

This trek offers a balance of natural beauty, cultural exposure, and physical activity. The trail is classified as easy to moderate, meaning most fit travelers can handle it with a bit of preparation.

You’ll enjoy walking through lush forests, passing traditional villages where Gurung and Magar communities live. These ethnic groups have preserved their customs and traditions, offering a glimpse into Himalayan rural life. Conversations with locals or seeing their vibrant community life adds a meaningful layer to your journey.

The stunning mountain vistas are the main attraction—on clear days, the views of peaks like Annapurna I and Machapuchare are simply unforgettable. The landscape’s changing colors from dawn to dusk make every moment a photo opportunity.

Meals are included during the trek—two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast—plus fresh fruit after dinner, adding to the value. You’ll stay in guesthouses with basic amenities, offering an authentic mountain lodgings experience.

Transportation and Guide Service

The organized transport from Pokhara to Banthati and back is via Jeep, which provides comfort and convenience. The tour includes a government-registered English-speaking guide, crucial for navigating the route and understanding local culture.

The group size is private, meaning you can enjoy a personalized experience with your own guide, making the trip more flexible and tailored to your pace.

Pricing and Value

At $350 per person, this trek packs a lot into a short window. The package covers permits, guiding, accommodations, meals, and transportation, which, when compared to the cost of independent travel, is quite reasonable. Consider that many similar treks can cost more for fewer inclusions or require separate arrangements.

However, it’s worth noting that meals in Pokhara and international flights are not included**. Also, if you’re traveling with a porter, that’s an extra cost, as this package doesn’t cover porters for personal luggage—only guides and essential permits.

Authentic Experience and Cultural Insights

Travelers often mention the warmth of local communities and their traditional lifestyles. The trek provides a rare opportunity to see Gurung and Magar villages, where you might observe traditional dress, local customs, or even join in on a community meal.

While this isn’t a deep culture, it’s enough to add context and richness to the journey. The local guides are knowledgeable about customs and traditions, which enhances the experience further.

Best Seasons and Tips

The trek is most popular in autumn and spring—clear skies and mild temperatures make for optimal mountain views and comfortable walking conditions. During the monsoon, trails can be muddy and visibility poor, while winter can bring snow and colder temperatures, though the views may be more dramatic.

Be sure to bring hiking shoes, rain gear, a flashlight, and personal medication. A passport or ID card is essential, especially for permits, and carrying some cash is advisable for tips and personal expenses.

Authenticity and Reviews

Many travelers rave about the stunning sunrise at Poon Hill, calling it “an experience I will never forget.” Others appreciate the well-organized logistics and the opportunity to see Himalayan panoramas in just two days.

Some reviews mention the simple, comfortable guesthouses and the friendly atmosphere created by local guides. The inclusion of fresh fruit and meals adds a thoughtful touch, making the trek feel cared for without unnecessary frills.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a short but impactful Himalayan experience, the Poon Hill Trek 1 Night, 2 Days offers spectacular mountain views, authentic cultural encounters, and the convenience of an organized tour. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and rural life. The value is excellent, especially considering the guided service, permits, and accommodations included.

While it’s not suited for someone looking for a multi-week expedition or deep culture, it hits all the highlights for a memorable snapshot of the Himalayas. The sunrise at Poon Hill alone makes this trek worth considering—an unforgettable moment that will stay with you long after you leave.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins with transportation from Pokhara, with the drive to Banthati by Jeep, which takes about 3 hours.

How long is the trek each day?
On the first day, you’ll trek roughly 4-5 hours from Banthati to Ghorepani, and on the second day, about 45 minutes descent up to Poon Hill, then back down to Ghorepani.

Does the price include accommodations?
Yes, accommodations in guesthouses are included during the trek.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll get 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, plus fresh fruit after dinner.

What are the main highlights?
The sunrise over the Annapurna range from Poon Hill, panoramic mountain views including Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail, and experiencing Gurung and Magar village life.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s rated as easy to moderate, suitable for most travelers in decent health.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, rain gear, a camera, passport or ID, cash, and personal medications.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, providing a personalized experience.

What is the best time of year to go?
Autumn and spring offer the clearest skies and best mountain visibility.

This 2-day trek offers a compact, scenic, and culturally rich experience that’s hard to beat for its value and views. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer eager for a taste of the Himalayas, this journey is sure to leave an impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: