7 Days Tour on Poon Hill Trek and Chitwan Jungle Safari

Setting out on a journey through Nepal’s diverse landscapes, this 7-day tour offers the best of both worlds: the breathtaking mountain vistas of the Annapurna range from Poon Hill and the wild encounters of Chitwan National Park. It’s designed for travelers who want a taste of high-altitude trekking paired with an immersive jungle safari—without spending weeks on the move.

What truly makes this experience stand out are the spectacular sunrise views at Poon Hill, the chance to explore traditional Gurung villages, and the exciting wildlife sightings in Chitwan. We also appreciate the organized logistics, including transfers and accommodations, which make the trip smooth and enjoyable. However, it’s worth considering that the trek involves steady walking and some uphill sections, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

This tour suits adventurous travelers seeking a well-rounded Nepal experience in a manageable timeframe, those interested in culture as well as wildlife, and anyone who values professional guides and a good balance of activity and relaxation.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining mountain trekking and jungle safaris
• Experienced, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Stunning sunrise views at Poon Hill are a highlight
• Authentic cultural encounters in Gurung and Tharu villages
• Comfortable transportation with private and tourist bus options
• All-inclusive pricing covers permits, accommodations, and activities

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Day 1: Starting at Ulleri and Trek to Nayapul

Your adventure kicks off with a scenic pickup from Pokhara, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Nayapul. From there, the trek begins through charming villages like Birethanti, along the Modi Khola River. The initial stage allows you to settle into the rhythm of Nepal’s countryside, with lush green terraces and welcoming locals. The walk is manageable for most, and the scenery offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani

Expect a trek through forests of rhododendron and oak, with waterfalls and sweeping mountain vistas. Reaching Ghorepani is a satisfying milestone in itself. This village, famous for its proximity to Poon Hill, is where you’ll most likely encounter fellow trekkers, creating a lively, communal atmosphere. The trail offers a steady climb, but the natural beauty makes it worth every step.

Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani

The early morning hike to Poon Hill is the day’s highlight, offering a panoramic sunrise view over peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. The experience, as one reviewer noted, is “well-paced” and “stunning,” with guides like Amrit ensuring everyone gets a good viewing spot. After breakfast, you trek to Tadapani, a peaceful village where the forest thickens and mountain views continue to impress.

Day 4: Ghandruk and Return to Pokhara

Descending to Ghandruk, you’ll explore the Gurung culture, visit the local museum, and enjoy the traditional architecture. This village is particularly praised for its cultural richness and authentic atmosphere. From there, a vehicle takes you back to Pokhara, where you can unwind by the lake and reflect on the trek.

Day 5: Travel to Chitwan National Park

A scenic drive along the Trisuli River transports you from the mountains to the lush plains of Chitwan. Arriving at your jungle lodge, you’ll receive a briefing about upcoming activities. The highlight here is exploring the Tharu villages and experiencing their unique dance performances, adding a cultural layer to the wild adventure.

Day 6: Wildlife Encounters at Chitwan

This day is packed with excitement: a canoe ride on the Rapti River provides opportunities to spot crocodiles and birdlife, while jungle walks with guides increase your chances of seeing rhinos, tigers, and various bird species. The jeep safari offers a more extensive wildlife search, often described as exhilarating and informative, thanks to the expert guides. The authentic guide insights and detailed spotting tips enhance the experience.

Day 7: Bird-watching and Return to Pokhara or Kathmandu

The tour wraps up with an early morning bird-watching tour—perfect for bird enthusiasts, as Chitwan hosts over 500 species. After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Pokhara or Kathmandu, depending on your plans, with the feeling of having truly experienced Nepal’s natural diversity in a week.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s transportation is well thought out. The initial drive from Pokhara to Nayapul is via private car, ensuring comfort at the start. During the trek, stays are in guesthouses, giving a chance to connect with local hospitality. The return journey from Kimche to Pokhara is by private vehicle, while the Chitwan to Kathmandu or Pokhara transfer is by a luxury tourist bus—comfortable and stress-free.

This combination of private and tourist bus travel helps keep the itinerary efficient without sacrificing comfort. The group size is not specified but appears to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

Accommodation and Meals

During the trek, accommodations are in guesthouses, standard for trekking in Nepal, offering basic but clean facilities. Chitwan’s lodges are rated as 2-star, providing a comfortable base with included meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—making it easy to focus on activities rather than meal planning. The included meals are a significant value, providing energy for active days.

Guides and Staff

The guides are licensed, experienced, and speak fluent English, which is vital in ensuring safety and understanding, especially during wildlife safaris and cultural visits. From reviews, guides like Amrit are noted for being exceptional, making the journey memorable with their local knowledge and friendly attitude.

Value for Money

At $750 per person, this tour packs in a lot. The price covers permits, accommodations, transportation, activities, and some meals, making it a comprehensive deal for a week-long adventure. The inclusion of guided wildlife safaris, cultural performances, and scenic drives adds to the value, especially considering Nepal’s reputation for affordable yet high-quality tourism.

Travelers should consider the physical demands – a moderate fitness level is recommended – but the pacing and support from guides make it accessible for most active travelers.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Beyond the stunning landscapes, the tour delivers authentic cultural moments. Visiting Ghandruk allows you to learn about Gurung traditions, while Tharu dance performances in Chitwan are a lively window into local customs. The wildlife excursions—from canoe rides to jeep safaris—are often described as exhilarating, with guides sharing insider tips on spotting elusive tigers and rhinos.

One reviewer mentioned how guide Amrit’s attention to detail made the trek smooth and enjoyable, ensuring everyone was well-informed and comfortable. The sunrise views from Poon Hill are genuinely breathtaking, often described as a “must-see” moment that makes the early start worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This 7-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of mountain adventure, cultural discovery, and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see Nepal’s highlights. The combination of stunning vistas, authentic villages, and thrilling safaris ensures a memorable experience that captures the essence of Nepal’s natural and cultural diversity.

The price point is reasonable, especially considering the inclusiveness of permits, accommodations, and organized activities. The guided aspect, praised for its expertise, adds peace of mind and educational value, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

While the physical aspect of trekking requires moderate fitness, most participants find the journey rewarding and manageable with proper preparation. Whether you’re seeking the iconic sunrise at Poon Hill or the thrill of spotting a tiger in Chitwan, this tour offers it all in a compelling, well-organized package.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you have a moderate fitness level, the trek is paced well and the guides help manage the journey comfortably.

Are meals included during the trek?
Meals during the trek are not included, but in Chitwan, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, making it easier to focus on activities.

How comfortable are the accommodations?
During the trek, accommodations are in guesthouses that are clean and basic. In Chitwan, you’ll stay in a 2-star lodge with comfortable amenities.

What transportation is used?
Transport includes private cars from Pokhara to Nayapul, vehicles for returning from Ghandruk to Pokhara, and luxury tourist buses from Chitwan to Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Is the wildlife safari guided?
Yes, all safaris and jungle activities are guided by licensed experts who are experienced in wildlife spotting and safety.

Can I participate in cultural performances?
Absolutely. In Chitwan, you’ll enjoy Tharu village visits and traditional dance shows, offering cultural insights and entertainment.

How long is the trek each day?
Trekking days typically range from 6 to 7 hours, with some early mornings for sunrise views, making for active but rewarding days.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for variable mountain weather, sturdy hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and personal essentials. Lightweight rain gear is also recommended.

Are the guides local?
Yes, guides are local, licensed, and fluent in English, with deep knowledge of the areas and wildlife.

This carefully curated 7-day itinerary is a fantastic way to experience Nepal’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and wildlife diversity. Whether you’re chasing the sunrise from Poon Hill or spotting rhinos in Chitwan, it’s a trip packed with memorable moments that offer genuine value and authentic adventure.