Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill

Breathtaking Mountain Views

On your trek to Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill, you will be treated to incredible views of some of the highest mountains in the world. From Poon Hill, you will see Annapurna (8,091m/26,545ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,795ft), and Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), three giants of the Himalayas. The surrounding peaks, including Machhapuchhre (6,993m/22,943ft), Mardi Himal, and, Hiunchuli (6,441m/21,132ft), offer stunning backdrops throughout your journey. These majestic mountains create a magnificent panorama, making the trek one of the best for mountain lovers.

Sunrise and Sunset From Poonhill

At Poon Hill (3,210m/10,525ft), you will get some of the best sunrise and sunset views in the Annapurna region. The sunrise, which usually happens around 6 AM, will show the first light hitting the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, turning them golden. In the evening, the sunset around 6 PM will make the mountains glow with warm orange and red colors.

To reach Poon Hill, you will need to hike for about an hour from Ghorepani, which is a bit challenging with some uphill sections, but the incredible views will make it worth the effort. The sunrise and sunset here are highlights of the trek because of the stunning panoramic views and peaceful atmosphere.

Traditional Gurung Villages & Culture

During your trek, you will visit traditional Gurung and Magar villages. Ghorepani is home to the Poon Magar people, and the houses here are painted blue. The locals follow a Tibetan-inspired Buddhist culture, and you will see many monasteries and Buddhist shrines along the way. In places like Chhomrong, you will find Buddhist monks living peacefully in these sacred spots.

As you walk through villages like Tadapani and Kimrong Valley, you will learn about their traditions, try local food like dal bhat (lentils and rice), and experience the kindness of the people. This part of your trek will give you a deeper understanding of the culture of the Annapurna region.

Iconic Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) is the highlight of your trek because it offers a unique and breathtaking experience. Reaching the base camp takes effort, with a long, uphill journey through dense forests and steep terrain. But once you reach the base camp, you will be surrounded by an amazing 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

The final part of the trek is challenging, but when you arrive at the base camp, you will feel proud. At the base camp, there are simple tea houses where you can rest and enjoy the amazing scenery. It is a peaceful place to relax and take in the beauty of the mountains.

The best time to trek to Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer you clear skies, beautiful views, and comfortable weather. Winter and summer are less ideal due to extreme cold and heavy rainfall. Here is the breakdown of each season.

Spring (March to May)

This is a fantastic time for the trek as the weather is mild, and the rhododendron forests around Ghorepani are in full bloom. You will see the vibrant colors of the flowers in spring, making the surroundings even more beautiful. The views of the mountains are still clear, and the temperatures are comfortable for trekking. This season offers a perfect mix of good weather, stunning views, and natural beauty. However, it can get a little crowded, especially around Poon Hill, as this is a popular time for trekkers.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to visit. The weather is clear, with blue skies and stunning views of the Annapurna range, including iconic peaks like Machhapuchhre and Annapurna I. The trails are not as crowded as in spring, but you will still meet fellow trekkers. The temperatures are cooler but not too cold, and the clear skies offer some of the best views of the mountains. This is the peak season for trekking in Nepal, so the accommodations are well-equipped and easy to find, but it can still get busy, especially at Annapurna Base Camp.

Winter (December to February)

This season is not recommended for Annapurna Base Camp due to the cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes like ABC and Poon Hill. The trek is still possible, but you should expect heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and shorter days. The trails are quieter, which might appeal to some trekkers, but it is a more difficult and risky season due to snow and ice. Accommodations might be limited or not as well-maintained at higher altitudes, and it is best suited for experienced trekkers.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the monsoon season, and this is generally the worst time to visit. The trails can be slippery and muddy. Rain is common, making trekking difficult and dangerous. There are fewer trekkers, but the weather conditions are not ideal. Landslides are a concern during the monsoon, and many accommodations are closed due to the low number of trekkers. If you plan to trek during summer, you need to be prepared for challenging conditions, and it is not the best season to enjoy the views.

The table below shows you the average daytime and nighttime temperature you will encounter based on each season:

Accommodations

When you book the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill through us, you will stay in comfortable places along the way. In Kathmandu, you will spend one night in a 3-star hotel, sharing a clean and cozy room with modern facilities. It is a perfect spot to rest before or after your trek. In Pokhara, you will stay for two nights in another 3-star hotel, offering peaceful surroundings and often beautiful views of the lake or hills.

During the trek, you will stay for eight nights in tea house lodges in the mountains. These lodges are simple but comfortable, with clean beds, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms. You will enjoy the friendly atmosphere in the common dining areas. Most tea houses offer basic Wi-Fi for a small fee, letting you stay connected if needed. They also have charging facilities for your devices, although charging may come with a small cost. Staying in these lodges will give you a chance to experience local culture and hospitality.

Meals

We provide three meals a day during your trek to ensure you stay energized and healthy. Breakfast is served at your accommodation or tea house and includes options like pancakes, eggs, porridge, and hot drinks to fuel your day. Lunch is enjoyed at tea houses or restaurants along the trail, offering hearty meals like noodles, fried rice, or dal bhat (a traditional Nepalese dish with rice, lentils, and vegetables).

Dinners are served at the tea house, where you rest for the night. Dinner is often a satisfying experience, with warm soups, curries, dumplings, or pasta on the menu. Special dietary preferences, such as vegetarian meals, can be accommodated upon request. Below is a table summarizing the meals provided during your trek:

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill is a moderately difficult trek that requires physical fitness and mental preparation. The trek involves long days of hiking, often 5 to 7 hours daily, over steep ascents and descents. Altitude can be a challenge as you gradually climb to 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp. While the trek combines the easier Poon Hill route with the more demanding Annapurna Base Camp trail, merging the two makes the journey more strenuous. You may face unpredictable weather, especially in higher regions.

In addition to that, the trek takes you through remote regions where facilities are basic and the trails can be rugged. Limited access to health services, the need for acclimatization, and carrying essential supplies make it more challenging. Wi-Fi and charging points are available in tea houses but may be unreliable or costly. The journey is physically demanding as you will encounter steep climbs and uneven terrain. Despite the challenges, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek Via Poonhill is worth exploring. You should prepare properly, and maintaining a steady pace will help you enjoy the trek safely.

Physical Fitness

You need to build strong physical fitness for this trek as it involves walking 5 to 7 hours daily on rugged and steep trails. Start a fitness routine at least 2 to 3 months before the trek that includes cardio exercises like running or cycling, strength training, and leg workouts. Practice hiking with a loaded backpack to simulate real trekking conditions and improve endurance. Incorporate flexibility exercises, as they help prevent muscle strain during the trek. Regular training will make the trek less exhausting and more enjoyable.

Acclimatization to Altitude

The trek reaches an altitude of 4,130 meters, where the risk of altitude sickness increases significantly. Spend 1 to 2 days at lower altitudes like Ghorepani or Chhomrong to help your body adjust before heading higher. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol or heavy meals that can strain your system. Learn the signs of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness, and inform your guide if you feel unwell. Carry medications like Diamox, but rely more on acclimatization through gradual ascent and proper rest.

Mental Preparation

You need to prepare mentally for this trek as it can be challenging with long hiking days, basic facilities, and unpredictable weather. You should focus on the incredible experience awaiting you, like the breathtaking views, cultural interactions, and reaching Annapurna Base Camp. We recommend you to set a realistic expectation and remind yourself about the actual challenges of it all since they are part of the journey. You can also practice staying positive by using relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises to keep yourself motivated.

Training for the Trail:

Practice walking on uneven surfaces and steep inclines to prepare for the terrain you will encounter on the trek. If possible, go on shorter treks or hikes in hilly areas to build familiarity with trekking conditions. This also gives you a chance to break in your trekking boots and adjust to carrying a backpack. Include stair climbing in your routine, as many parts of the trail involve steep stone steps. Training specifically for these challenges will give you more confidence and stamina.

Permits and Insurance

Before starting your trek, we recommend you secure the necessary permits, such as the TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), to comply with local regulations. Additionally, make sure you have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation by helicopter if needed. Check the coverage details carefully, and carry a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact information during the trek.

Clothing

• Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Trekking pants and shirts
• Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
• Comfortable trekking socks

Footwear

• Sturdy trekking boots (waterproof and broken-in)
• Lightweight sandals or flip-flops (for evenings)
• Gaiters (optional for snow or rain)

Gear and Accessories

• Trekking poles
• Backpack (30-40 liters for day use)
• Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C or lower)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Water bottles or hydration system

Personal Items

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap)
• Quick-dry towel
• Sunscreen and lip balm (high SPF)
• Basic first-aid kit and personal medications
• Snacks and energy bars
• Trekking permits and identification

Electronics

• Power bank
• Camera or smartphone for photos
• Charging cables and adapters
• GPS device or map

Miscellaneous

• Lightweight, packable rain cover for backpack
• Cash {Nepali Ruppes}
• Notebook and pen
• Reusable bags for waste