A trekking in the heart of Annapurna Himalayas that is short and easy but rewarding, Poonhill Trek takes us to the viewpoint of Poonhill and provides us the opportunity to capture astonishing mountain panorama and stunning sunrise. The mountain views include Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Himchuli, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. In fact, when the trekkers arrive at Poonhill, they are not really ready to say goodbye to the mountain panorama and the landscapes but have to. Those who Love Mountains tend to go Poonhill every year and celebrate their holiday accompanying with mountain summits.
Poonhill Trek is a hill station located at 3200m above the sea level. To get Poonhill, we have to go Pokhara from Kathmandu. We, international tourists, can not directly go Pokhara because Pokhara does not own international airport. First, we arrive at Kathmandu and either choose to drive or fly to Pokhara. If we choose to fly, it takes 30 minutes and if choose to drive, we need to spend more than 7 hours. Further, from Pokhara, we drive to the place named Nayapool and begin our hiking in the country landscapes. The lush rhododendron and other vegetation are just beautiful. The picturesque ethnic settlements, natural waterfalls, wildlife and birds, friendly people on the trail makes our Poonhil trek more memorable and astonishing.
Poonhill Trek Accommodation and Food
Poonhill trekking trail has facilitated lodges and guesthouses. We do not need to worry for our Accommodation and food during the trek. However, during peak season (between September - November) the lodges and guesthouses are terribly crowded since Poonhill trekking is the most rewarding trekking in Annapurna region. During this season, we have to make a prior booking for our accommodation.
The guesthouses are neat and clean. Theses guesthouses are run by the local people. Normally, we will get sharing accommodation. But if really want private accommodation during Poonhill trekking, your company or the leader will arrange it for you. Actually, it is hard to get private accommodation. The shower and toilets are outside and we have to share with other people.
We can find the food items in the menu prepared by the guesthouse and we can make our order. The menu will be with similar items like the menu we find in Kathmandu and Pokhara but the cost is high. One item of food will cost between 4-8 USD.
Poonhill Trek Weather
The winter is harsh. Poonhill receives heavy snowfall during winter (Dec-Feb). Autumn (Sep-Nov) is the best season to visit Poonhill. We will have pleasant weather during autumn. The temperature is perfect and the mountain views are breathtaking. The hills on Poonhill trekking trail receives flowering rhododendron which looks mesmerizing. Trekkers also love to make their Poonhill Trekking during spring.
Poon hill Trek Permits
We need to obtain two types of permits for Poonhill Trekking: TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit. Both permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. Optionally, we can get it in Pokhara too. However, we suggest purchasing from Kathmandu. The ACAP costs 28 USD for foreigners and for SAARC nationals, it costs 200 NPRS. The TIMS card costs USD 18.
This easy trekking can be done in 5 days from Pokhara. The highest elevation of this trekking is 3200m which is Poonhill. Tadapani, Ghandruk, Poonhill are the best places to visit in this trekking.
Go with a reliable trekking company, find the right crew, embark on the best season and make you Poonhill trek a memorable.
