2 Day Poon Hill Trek with 2 Day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour

If you’re craving a quick but immersive taste of Nepal’s incredible landscapes and diverse wildlife, this 2-day Poon Hill Trek combined with a 2-day Chitwan Jungle Safari really hits the mark. While it’s a packed itinerary, it offers an authentic glimpse of Himalayan beauty alongside unforgettable jungle adventures.

We love the way this tour balances the serenity of mountain vistas with adrenaline-pumping safaris, making it ideal for those who want a variety-packed adventure without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The opportunity to witness a Himalayan sunrise and then swap mountains for crocodiles and rhinos is pretty unique.

That said, be prepared for some long travel days—especially the journey from Pokhara to Chitwan, which can take around 9-10 hours. If you’re not used to lengthy drives, it’s worth considering how this might fit into your travel schedule.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and culture, especially if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to pack in some of Nepal’s highlights.

Key Points

• Stunning Himalayan sunrise views from Poon Hill are a major highlight.
• Lush village walks through Ghorepani and Ulleri provide cultural insights.
• Wildlife safaris in Chitwan offer chances to see rhinos, deer, crocodiles, and possibly tigers.
• Efficient 4-day itinerary balances trekking, cultural experiences, and jungle adventures.
• Accommodation is comfortable, with guest house stays in Ghorepani and a lodge in Chitwan.
• Transport is by private jeep and car, ensuring smooth transitions between activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 4-Day Nepal Adventure

Day 1: Scenic Drive and Trek to Ghorepani

Your journey begins with a three-hour drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, a picturesque village surrounded by terraced fields and forested hills. The scenic route offers views of lush landscapes dotted with local villages, setting the tone for your trek.

Starting in Ulleri, you’ll ascend gradually through rhododendron forests—a sight that’s especially magical during the blooming season—and pass through small villages that highlight traditional Nepali life. The trek to Ghorepani, a charming village at 2,874 meters, takes approximately 7-8 hours, so comfortable hiking shoes and stamina are a must.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized routes often comment on how smoothly the guides manage the day’s pace, making it accessible even for those with moderate fitness levels. The guest houses in Ghorepani are cozy, offering a good base to relax after a day of walking.

Day 2: Sunrise Spectacle & Return to Pokhara

Waking up early for the famous Poon Hill sunrise is the highlight of this trip. The 45-minute uphill walk to 3,210 meters gets you to the viewpoint just before dawn. From here, the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Machapuchare and Dhaulagiri are breathtaking as the sun’s first rays illuminate the Himalayan giants.

Many travelers describe the sunrise experience as “worth every step,” with memorable comments about the vivid colors and the expansive mountain skyline. After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then trek down to Ulleri before heading back by private jeep to Pokhara.

This day involves about 6-7 hours of walking, but the descent offers a chance to appreciate the lush scenery from a different perspective.

Day 3: Journey to Chitwan & Jungle Activities

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a long drive—roughly 9-10 hours—from Pokhara to Chitwan. This leg is the most time-consuming part of the trip, but the scenery along the way, with glimpses of rural Nepalese life and mountains fading into plains, is interesting.

Once in Chitwan, you’ll check into your lodge, where a welcome drink and briefing prepare you for the upcoming adventures. The afternoon’s highlight is a jeep safari within Chitwan National Park**, where you’ll have the chance to spot crocodiles, deer, rhinoceroses, and bird species. Many reviewers mention how lively the wildlife sightings can be; some even note the possibility of seeing the elusive Bengal tiger if lucky.

In the evening, enjoy a Tharu cultural dance, an authentic performance showcasing local traditions, costumes, and music. The cultural element adds a layer of depth to your wildlife experience, connecting you to the local community.

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Day 4: Canoeing and Return Journey

Start your final day with a canoe ride along the Rapti River. This peaceful activity allows for wildlife spotting from the water—crocodiles, herons, and kingfishers are often observed. Many travelers find this a relaxing way to unwind after a couple of busy days.

Following the canoe, you’ll transfer back to Kathmandu or Pokhara, depending on your plans. The trip back from Chitwan involves about 8-9 hours of travel, so it’s best to plan your arrival time accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for the price of $697 per person. The package covers all ground transportation (Pokhara to Ulleri, Chitwan to Kathmandu/Pokhara), permits, guides, accommodation, a jungle safari, canoe ride, and cultural dance.

However, food and drinks are extra, so budget for meals not included in the package. The accommodation in Ghorepani guest houses and the Chitwan lodge is rated as good quality, balancing comfort with authentic local charm.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Bring your hiking essentials, including hiking shoes, sun protection, water, and trekking gear.
• Prepare for long travel days—a good book or music can help pass the time.
• Carry cash for personal expenses, as not all places accept cards.
• Book your permits in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• The best seasons are from March to May and September to December, when weather conditions are ideal for both trekking and wildlife safaris.

Authentic Experiences and Useful Insights

Based on reviews, guides like “Suresh” are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the trek both enjoyable and educational. Many travelers appreciated the well-organized safaris and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Some reviewers mention the memorable cultural dance and the delicious local food, which adds to the experience. Others highlight the stunning sunrise views as genuinely unforgettable, often describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This four-day Nepal adventure is perfect for travelers who want to combine mountain vistas with wildlife encounters without committing to a longer trek or safari. It’s well-suited for those with moderate fitness levels, given the manageable trek days and the long but scenic drives.

Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see Himalayan peaks at sunrise and then switch gears to spot rhinos and crocodiles in Chitwan. Culturally curious travelers will enjoy the local villages, the Tharu dance, and the chance to connect with Nepalese traditions.

If you’re looking for a trip that offers diverse landscapes, memorable wildlife sightings, and authentic cultural moments, this one fits the bill nicely. Just be prepared for some travel hours and pack accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most of the trek involves manageable walking, but some days involve about 6-8 hours of trekking. It’s best suited for those in moderate fitness condition.

Are meals included?
Food and drinks are not included, so you should budget for meals during the trip.

What are the best seasons to go?
The ideal times are from March to May and September to December when the weather is most favorable for trekking and wildlife viewing.

How long is the drive from Pokhara to Chitwan?
It takes approximately 9-10 hours by private car, which is a significant part of the journey but offers scenic views along the way.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
In Chitwan, you might spot crocodiles, rhinoceroses, deer, and birds, with a chance—though less predictable—of seeing elusive Bengal tigers.

Is accommodation comfortable?
Yes, stays are in good guest houses in Ghorepani and a lodge in Chitwan, rated as good quality but maintaining authentic local charm.

Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely, the tour allows for flexible booking with a ‘reserve and pay later’ option.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for those who are reasonably fit; the long drives and some trekking might be challenging for very young children or seniors with mobility issues.

What should I pack?
Bring hiking shoes, sun protection, water, a hat, sunscreen, cash, and your trekking gear.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

This tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed glimpse into Nepal’s natural beauty and rich culture—perfect for adventurers eager to tick off mountain and jungle experiences in a short timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here: