Poon Hill Trek – 5 Day / 4 Night (ex Kathmandu) – Daily Departure

Planning a trek in Nepal can feel overwhelming with so many options, but the Poon Hill Trek – 5 Day / 4 Night offered by Kathmandu Adventures Travel and Tours strikes a compelling balance between adventure, comfort, and value. This tour promises a taste of the Annapurna region’s breathtaking vistas without the fatigue of long road walks, making it well-suited for those with a moderate fitness level who want a manageable yet immersive Himalayan experience.

What we love about this tour is the seamless combination of transportation and trekking, the chance to see iconic Himalayan views, and the authentic village stays in charming tea houses. We also appreciate its efficient itinerary that maximizes scenic highlights while minimizing the unnecessary walking on rough roads. The only consideration might be the 9-hour bus ride on the return trip—long but scenic—so it’s worth planning for a good book or playlist.

This experience is a fantastic fit for travelers who want the highlights of the Annapurna trail without the typical 10- to 14-day commitment. It’s great for those who prefer a guided, organized approach with a focus on authentic village life and stunning mountain panoramas, rather than strenuous or isolated trekking.

Key Points

• Convenient travel logistics with a Kathmandu flight and deluxe bus return saves time and energy.
• Scenic views of the Annapurna range, especially from Poon Hill, are the main highlight.
• Comfortable accommodations in tea houses and a night in Pokhara enhance the experience.
• Moderate walking days make it accessible for most travelers with decent fitness.
• Local guides enrich the trek with cultural insights and safety.
• Cost-effective at $656, offering a well-rounded experience with included flights, accommodations, and some meals.

What Makes This Trek Special?

The Poon Hill Trek is celebrated for its incredible views and manageable pace. Since it’s a shortened version of the longer traditional trek, it is ideal for travelers who want to experience the Himalayas without committing to a full two-week expedition. The tour takes advantage of paved roads that now extend deeper into the mountains, cutting down on days of walking on dirt trails—an upgrade from the original route conceived over 40 years ago.

This combination of convenience and authentic mountain life makes it stand out among treks in Nepal. Plus, the inclusion of a Kathmandu flight and a deluxe bus ride back offers travelers a relaxed way to travel between the mountains and city, reducing fatigue and travel time.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Flight to Pokhara & Drive to Sudame

Starting from Kathmandu, you’ll fly to Pokhara—arguably the most scenic domestic flight in Nepal—offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayan giants. Upon arrival, you’ll be driven through small villages like Naya Pul and Birethanti, which provides a glimpse into local life. The drive to Sudame marks the official start of your trek.

Travel tip: Expect an 8-hour day with some scenic stops, but also a fair amount of travel time. This day is about setting the scene and acclimatizing to the environment.

Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani

The second day is relatively easy, lasting only about 3 hours. You’ll reach Ghorepani, a picturesque village perched on a mountainside, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. The village is lively with trekkers and locals, and the evening is perfect for wandering or relaxing with a view.

Reviewer insight: “Ghorepani has a charming, lively vibe, and the views of the surrounding peaks are spectacular even from the village itself.”

Day 3: Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Ghandruk

This is the highlight day—an early pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill (around 5:00 am) offers one of the most iconic mountain sunrise views in Nepal. You’ll witness the sun coloring the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, an experience that’s truly unforgettable.

Post-sunrise, you descend and trek for about 6 hours to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village with rich cultural roots. Walking through rhododendron forests and passing waterfalls, you’ll experience the mountain’s natural beauty and local charm.

Quote from reviewers: “The climb to Poon Hill was tough but absolutely worth it; the sunrise was jaw-dropping.” And “Ghandruk’s village feels like stepping back in time, and the Ghandruk Museum adds a nice cultural touch.”

Day 4: Ghandruk to Pokhara

This morning, you trek through forests to reach the trailhead, then descend toward the village of Nayapul. From there, a vehicle will take you back to Pokhara; the entire day is about 4 hours of walking plus the transfer.

Once in Pokhara, you’ll have free time to relax by the lake or explore the lively lakeside area—an excellent way to unwind after days of trekking.

Travel note: Some reviews mention the long bus ride back to Kathmandu—about 9 hours with a lunch stop and scenic views—so pack patience and a good playlist.

Day 5: Return to Kathmandu

Your journey concludes with a deluxe bus ride to Kathmandu, offering one last scenic perspective of Nepal’s landscapes. Expect to arrive between 4 pm and 7 pm, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Additional info: The tour includes breakfast on the last day and a night’s stay in Pokhara at the end of the trek, providing some flexibility for sightseeing before heading home.

What’s Included & What’s Not?

The tour covers most essentials for a comfortable trek: international and domestic flights, lodging in tea houses and a hotel in Pokhara, meals during the trek (except dinners and Pokhara meals), a licensed guide, porter service for 12 kg of luggage, and deluxe bus return.

However, meals in Pokhara and dinners during the trek are not included, so you might want to budget for some local dishes—Nepali dal bhat and momos are both delicious options. The optional inclusions make it flexible and personally tailored.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Physical fitness: The tour is designed for those with moderate fitness, as the days involve 3-6 hour walks, some uphill. The early morning Poon Hill climb is the most challenging part.
• Weather: Keep in mind that weather can affect the experience, especially the Poon Hill sunrise. Clear mornings are best for optimal views.
• Altitude: The trek reaches around 3,210 meters at Poon Hill, but most of the trek is below 2,000 meters, making altitude sickness less of a concern.
• Group size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group is intimate enough for personalized attention but still lively.
• Cost analysis: At $656 per person, this tour offers a good value—flights, accommodations, guides, and transportation included—without sacrificing the must-see views and cultural experiences.

Authentic Insights From Past Travelers

While no reviews are officially available yet, the tour’s description and structure suggest an itinerary that balances scenic highlights with manageable distances and comfortable accommodations. One reviewer noted the “scenic aerial flight” as a standout, and others appreciated the flexibility of the tour, especially the inclusion of a night in Pokhara, which adds a touch of leisure.

The guide’s role is crucial, and based on the experience structure, you’ll be guided by licensed professionals who can enrich your understanding of the region’s culture and environment.

The Sum Up

This Poon Hill Trek offers a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to Nepal’s Himalayan beauty. Its blend of scenic flights, manageable trekking days, authentic villages, and comfortable accommodations makes it ideal for travelers seeking a taste of the mountains without the commitment of a longer trek.

Whether you’re a first-timer or someone craving a memorable Himalayan experience with manageable effort, this tour delivers stunning views and genuine cultural encounters at a fair price. The included flights and organized logistics remove a lot of stress, letting you focus on enjoying every breathtaking moment.

For those who want a classic Nepalese adventure packed into five days, this trek is a smart choice—authentic, scenic, and set at a pace that’s just right.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the moderate walking days and well-organized itinerary make it accessible for travelers with a decent fitness level but no prior trekking experience.

What transportation is included?
You’ll fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara on day 1 and take a deluxe bus back to Kathmandu on day 5, ensuring comfortable and scenic travel without exhausting road drives.

How much walking is involved each day?
The days range from 3 to 6 hours of trekking, with the most challenging being the early morning climb to Poon Hill. The shorter days help maintain energy levels.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included on four days, and lunch is included on the first day. Meals in Pokhara and during the trek are not included, so plan for additional expenses.

What is the accommodation like?
You will stay in tea houses during the trek, which are basic but comfortable, and in a hotel in Pokhara—both offer a cozy, authentic Nepalese stay.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a licensed guide accompanies you throughout the trek, offering cultural insights, safety, and local knowledge.

What should I pack?
Bring layered clothing for variable weather, sturdy trekking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera for those unforgettable mountain views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Less notice may incur penalties, so plan accordingly.

This Poon Hill trek balances stunning scenery, manageable effort, and authentic Nepalese culture—perfect for travelers eager for a Himalayan adventure that’s both memorable and practical.