Pokhara Private Tour: 10 Days ABC Trek with Poon Hill

Introduction

Looking to explore Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes without the hassle of planning every detail? This 10-day ABC Trek with Poon Hill offers a well-organized, private adventure that guides you through the highlights of the Annapurna region. From the charming lakeside town of Pokhara to awe-inspiring mountain panoramas, this tour promises a mix of nature, culture, and memorable sunrise views.

What we love about this experience? First, the carefully crafted itinerary balances the challenge of trekking with plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery. Second, the inclusion of a sunrise at Poon Hill — arguably one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Nepal. Third, the small-group or private approach ensures a personalized experience, with flexibility and comfort along the way. One potential consideration is the physically demanding nature of the trek, so it’s best suited for active travelers with good fitness levels.

If you’re after an authentic trek with professional guidance, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to tick off two major highlights in one trip, this tour is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Stunning mountain vistas at Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp.
• Well-organized, private itinerary tailored to your group.
• Inclusion of local transportation and permits simplifies logistics.
• Accommodation in guesthouses provides authentic mountain lodge experiences.
• A focus on cultural interactions with local villages and landscapes.
• Free cancellation policy offers flexibility in planning.

Exploring the 10-Day ABC Trek & Poon Hill Tour

The Start: Pokhara as Your Gateway

Arriving in Pokhara, you’ll settle into a lakeside hotel with stunning views of Phewa Lake. The first evening is perfect for a casual stroll around Lakeside — picture shops, cafes, and the calming sound of water lapping at the shore. It’s a relaxed intro to Nepal’s scenic charm and a good chance to prepare for the trek ahead.

Day 2: From Pokhara to Tikhedhunga

Your journey begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek. This trip offers a glimpse of Nepalese rural life before you hit the trail. The trek to Tikhedhunga takes about six hours, passing through terraced fields and lush greenery. Walking at a steady pace, you’ll get your first taste of the region’s natural beauty. This part isn’t overly strenuous but sets the tone with its beautiful scenery and fresh mountain air.

Day 3: To Ghorepani via Ulleri

Today’s highlight is the steep climb up Ulleri’s stone staircase — a challenging yet rewarding ascent that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Afterward, the trail winds through vibrant rhododendron forests, which bloom in spring, making for stunning photos and a fragrant walk. Reaching Ghorepani, a charming village, feels like a well-earned reward. The village’s view of snow-capped peaks is impressive, and it’s a good spot to get acclimatized for the early start the next morning.

Day 4: Sunrise at Poon Hill, then on to Tadapani

The early morning hike to Poon Hill (around 2 hours) is a highlight — many travelers say the sunrise here is unforgettable, casting golden hues over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The experience is often described as one of the most spectacular mountain vistas they’ve ever seen. After soaking in the views, you descend back to Ghorepani and trek to Tadapani, passing through more rhododendron and bamboo forests. This part of the journey offers tranquility and the chance to notice the changing flora.

Day 5: From Tadapani to Chhomrong

Today, the trail descends to the Kimrong Khola before climbing up to Chhomrong. The route offers more stunning vistas of Annapurna South and Machapuchare, also known as Fishtail Mountain. The walk takes about six hours but feels more manageable with the scenic breaks along the way. Chhomrong is a larger village with excellent mountain views, and many trekkers appreciate the chance to relax after a day of hiking.

Days 6-7: To Bamboo, Dovan, and Deurali

These days take you deeper into the Annapurna landscape, with hikes through bamboo forests and past small mountain villages. You’ll pass through Dovan and Himalaya Hotel areas, with each stop offering unique views and a sense of progression toward the base camp. The terrain becomes more rugged, and the scenery more dramatic, with towering peaks looming overhead. Staying overnight in Bamboo and Deurali allows you to acclimatize gradually.

Day 8: To Annapurna Base Camp

The highlight of the trek — reaching Annapurna Base Camp — is a truly breath-catching moment. The ascent takes about six hours, passing through the Modi Khola Valley, Machapuchare Base Camp, and finally the ABC. The panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and surrounding peaks are jaw-dropping. Many describe this as a ‘wow’ moment, with some saying it’s worth every step. Spending the night here immerses you in the high-altitude environment and the majestic mountain scenery.

Day 9: Sunrise and Heading Back

Watching the sunrise from ABC is a profound experience — the peaks glow with morning light, creating perfect photo opportunities and a sense of achievement. After breakfast, you descend through the same trail, passing through Deurali and Dovan, returning to Bamboo for the night. The descent is faster but just as scenic, offering different perspectives of the mountains.

Day 10: Relaxation and Hot Springs

Your trek concludes with a walk from Bamboo to Chhomrong, then down to Jhinu Danda. Here, you can unwind in natural hot springs — a luxurious way to soothe tired muscles. From Jhinu, a shared jeep takes you to Nayapul, followed by a private transfer back to Pokhara. The journey ends with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with memories of stunning vistas and authentic mountain village experiences.

Practical Details & Logistics

Transportation & Permits

The tour includes all necessary permits and a guide, which makes logistics smooth. The private transport from Pokhara to Nayapul and back ensures a comfortable start and finish. The local shared jeep from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul is an efficient way to cut down on walking time and adds a bit of local flavor.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying in guesthouses throughout offers a genuine experience — expect simple but comfortable rooms, often with mountain views. Meals are available for purchase along the route, costing around NPR 3500 daily per person, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Many travelers find the food hearty and satisfying after a day of trekking.

Group Size & Guide

The tour is private, meaning your group will have personalized attention from the guide. The guide, typically experienced and friendly, is vital for navigation, safety, and enriching the experience with local insights. Trusted reviews mention guides by name, like Chhabi, who are praised for their organization and close attention to guests’ needs.

Physical Fitness & Preparation

This trek demands good physical fitness due to the altitude and steep sections, especially the ascent to Poon Hill and ABC. Reviewers with positive experiences mention being well-prepared physically, but even casual hikers should gauge their stamina before booking.

Price & Value

At $610 per person, this tour offers comprehensive value. It covers transportation, permits, guide, accommodation, and a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the major highlights. Compared to the cost of independent planning, this package simplifies logistics and guarantees expert guidance, which many travelers value highly.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewer Insights

One traveler from Tripadvisor shared, “Chhabi has helped us from the beginning and organized everything,” highlighting how seamless the process was. They also appreciated the close treatment from guides, emphasizing the personal touch. The ability to witness a pass from the base camp and enjoy the sunrise views at Poon Hill was described as “unforgettable,” echoing what many trekkers say about this journey.

Another review noted the strong organization and care shown by the team, which can make a significant difference in remote trekking environments. The feedback underlines that this tour isn’t just about the scenery but about feeling supported and well-prepared throughout.

The Sum Up

This 10-day ABC Trek with Poon Hill from Pokhara strikes a balance between adventure, comfort, and authentic cultural exposure. It’s ideally suited for travelers who want a guided experience, stunning mountain vistas, and a manageable pace. The inclusion of sunrise views, local guesthouses, and a private guide provides a personalized feel to what is often considered a challenging trek.

While physically demanding, the trek offers some of the most iconic scenery Nepal has to offer, making it worthwhile for those with decent fitness levels. The value is clear when considering the comprehensive logistics, expert guidance, and memorable views included. It’s perfect for those wanting a well-organized, immersive Himalayan adventure.

In essence, if you’re after a meaningful trek that combines natural beauty with cultural insight and hassle-free planning, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? While the trek does involve some steep climbs and altitude, travelers with good physical fitness can enjoy it. It’s best to be prepared for the physical demands and acclimatization days.

What is included in the tour price? The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, trekking permits, a Tims card, transportation between key points, and accommodation in guesthouses.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included but are available for purchase at around NPR 3500 per day. Many find the local food hearty and delicious.

How is the transportation arranged? The tour uses private cars for the initial transfer and a shared jeep from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, ensuring efficient and comfortable travel.

Can I cancel the booking? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing some flexibility if plans change.

What are the accommodation standards? Expect guesthouses along the trail, which are simple but comfortable, often with mountain views and basic amenities.

Is a guide provided? Yes, an experienced guide is included, who will assist with navigation, safety, and sharing local insights.

What is the best time to do this trek? While not specified here, Nepal’s prime trekking seasons are generally spring and autumn, offering clear skies and mild weather.

This detailed, balanced review aims to give you a true sense of what to expect from this trek. With awe-inspiring views, seamless logistics, and authentic mountain village experiences, it’s a journey worth considering for your Nepal adventure.