Annapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill – 10 Days

tripadvisor50 Reviews in TripAdvisor
google10 Reviews in Google Reviews
Trip Facts
  • Country Nepal
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Duration 11 Days
  • Maximum Altitude 4,130 m
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Starts Pokhara
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Activities Trekking, Flight and Drive
  • Best Time Spring and Autumn

Annapurna Base Camp from Poon Hill Trek is a perfect blend of scenery, sophistication of culture, and modest adventure that takes the trekkers through some of the most fabled landscapes of the Annapurna region. The 10-day trek is tailor-made for everyone who wants to experience both the world-famous sunrise from Poon Hill and Annapurna Sanctuary in a single well-timed itinerary. The trek continues from Nayapul near Pokhara, going through the initial dense rhododendron-forested hillside, cascading waterfalls down rocky slopes, and quaint villages of the Magar and Gurung inhabitants.

Pre-dawn trek to Poon Hill (3,210m) is one of the highlights of this trail where travelers are able to view a stunning landscape of snow-capped giants like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Machapuchare as the morning golden light of the sun caresses their peaks. The trail further joins onto the main ABC route, climbing higher each day from Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and Machapuchare Base Camp, until you eventually arrive at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), a high-altitude amphitheater ringed by giant Himalayan peaks on all sides.

The gradual incline of this route offers the ideal solution for concerned acclimatization, and variety of natural and cultural views ensures every day is different. Coming back, the route enjoys a relaxing halt at Jhinu Danda, where there are natural hot springs running alongside the river. Overall, this trek is the perfect combination of Nepal's most spectacular mountain scenery, rich cultural experiences, and a balanced adventure that will satisfy both seasoned trekkers and energetic newcomers looking for the best that Nepal has to offer within less than a week.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poonhill

  • Wake up before dawn for the stunning sunrise from Poon Hill, when golden light bathes Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machapuchare in a glorious Himalayan panorama.
  • Stand at the base of Annapurna, ringed with a 360° wall of white mountains, it's the spiritual and scenic climax of the trek.
  • Trek through rhododendron and bamboo forests, along stone steps and rivers, as the landscape changes dramatically day by day.
  • Experience the warmth of mountain culture in genuine Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong.
  • Unwind your muscles in Jhinu Danda's riverside hot springs, nature's finest spa after days of trekking.
  • With a soft altitude profile and no technical aspects, this trek is for first-timers and veterans alike.
  • Enjoy fresh local food, cozy teahouses, and spectacular views without domestic flights or backcountry logistics.

Best Time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill

Best seasons for Annapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring has the rhododendrons at peak bloom, the trail a sea of green, sunny weather with warm days, making it the favorite trek for nature lovers and photographers alike. Autumn offers the clearest skies, freshest mountain air, and dry trails, ideal for wide-angle view and reliable trekking. These two windows are the most stable in terms of weather and provide the best views from high altitude, especially at sunrise in Poon Hill and at Annapurna Base Camp itself.

Winter (December to February) is also possible for trekking, with fewer people and snow-dusted trails adding to the thrill, though temperatures dive at higher altitudes. The monsoon season (June to August) is best avoided, with constant heavy rain, muddy trails, leeches in forested areas, and poorer mountain visibility owing to cloud cover.

Whether you prefer spring flowers or autumnal clarity, both perfect seasons offer a safe and successful trekking experience amidst the Annapurna Himalayas.

Annapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill – 10 Days Itinerary

We’re happy to help you make your journey truly yours! You can enhance your adventure by adding a Kathmandu sightseeing tour, exciting outdoor activities, or day trips around Nepal before or after your trek. Simply get in touch, and we’ll arrange it for you.

Please note that the itinerary may occasionally require changes due to factors beyond our control, such as flight delays, unpredictable weather, or natural events. In such situations, we’ll do our utmost to provide the best possible alternatives to keep your trek safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. We deeply appreciate your understanding, cooperation, and flexibility in these circumstances.

Day 01Arrival at Kathmandu – Welcome & Trek Preparation

Upon arrival at Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal, we will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel. Relax after your trip or stroll around nearby streets where there are prayer wheels, temples, and bustling markets. In the evening, attend the welcome dinner with your trekking staff, and also receive a detailed briefing on the trip ahead.

Overnight in Kathmandu

  • Max Altitude:1,350 m
  • Meals:Welcome Dinner
  • Accommodation:3 star accommodation
  • Mode of Transportation:Private Vehice

Day 02Fly to Pokhara – Drive to Nayapul – Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)

Following breakfast, take a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara, where snowy peaks seem to hover above the clouds. From Pokhara, drive for 1.5 hours to Nayapul, the base of your trek. Start your walk along terraced rice fields and riverside paths, going through small Gurung and Magar villages before arriving at Tikhedhunga.

Trekking Time: 3–4 hours | Trail: Gentle riverbank walking with gentle climb

Tikhedhunga overnight

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 03Trek to Ghorepani (2,860m)

The hike of the day begins with a steep climb up the famous Ulleri staircase, over 3,000 stone steps! The higher you climb, the better the views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The trail then follows through shaded oak and rhododendron forests to the colorful village of Ghorepani, surrounded by mountain ridges.

Trek Time: 6–7 hours | Route: Steep stone stairs, then forest climbs

Night in Ghorepani

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 04Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) – Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)

Early morning, hike for a short but satisfying distance to Poon Hill. At sunrise over the Himalayas, the whole Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range is ablaze with golden color, a breathtaking experience. After taking in the view, descend to have breakfast and resume the day's trek through thick rhododendron forests to Tadapani.

Trekking Time: 6–7 hours | Trail: Sunrise climb, then forest ridge walk

Overnight in Tadapani

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 05Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m)

The walk today descends through lush vegetation to Ghandruk village, with stunning views of Annapurna South and Fishtail Peak in the distance. Then ascend gradually over cultivated fields to reach Chhomrong, a charming village on the side of a ridge. Chhomrong is the last settled village before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Trekking Time: 5–6 hours | Trail: Descents and ascents through forest and fields

Rest overnight in Chhomrong

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 06Trek to Himalaya (2,920m)

Walk across a suspension bridge over Chhomrong Khola and start a gentle climb through dense rhododendron and bamboo forest. Walk through peaceful villages like Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Dovan as you climb gently. The day ends in Himalaya, a cluster of small lodges flanked by cliffs and waterfalls.

Trekking Time: 6–7 hours | Trail: Gentle climb through dense forest

Overnight in Himalaya

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 07Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) from Machapuchare Base Camp (3,700m)

This is the most spectacular day of the trek. Ascend above the treeline and cross into alpine terrain with glaciers, rocky ridges, and vast open landscapes. Pause at Machapuchare Base Camp for incredible views of Fishtail and other peaks. A final gentle climb leads into the Annapurna Sanctuary, and at last, you reach ABC, surrounded by towering Himalayan giants on all sides.

Trekking Duration: 6–7 hours | Trek: High-altitude terrain and vast glacier basin

Annapurna Base Camp overnight stay

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 08Sunrise at ABC – Trek Down to Bamboo or Sinuwa

Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Annapurna I, a great view as golden light descends upon the snow. Breakfast, then begin descending, taking the same route back through MBC, Deurali, and Bamboo. The fresh air, rising oxygen levels, and downhill gradient make the walk much simpler.

Trekking Time: 6–7 hours | Trail: All downhill with forest return route

Overnight in Bamboo or Sinuwa

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Local Teahouse

Day 09Jhinu Danda – Natural Hot Springs – Drive to Pokhara

Hike your final day to Chhomrong, then down to Jhinu Danda, where a reward awaits, a natural hot spring soaks along the river. Lunch and relaxation here, then hike down to Matkyou where your own vehicle will take you back to Pokhara.

Trekking Time: 4–5 hours | Drive: 2.5 hours | Trail: Last ascents and descents

Overnight at Pokhara

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:3 star accommodation

Day 10Fly Back to Kathmandu – Departure or Optional Extension

Spend a peaceful morning in Pokhara, perhaps with a coffee overlooking the lake, or a brief hike up to the World Peace Pagoda, before taking a 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu. Alternatively, depending on your schedule, you'll be transferred to the airport for your outward international flight or have more time in the capital.

Flight Time: 25 minutes

End of Trip

Still Confused
Every adventurer is different- that’s why we customize each Nepal trek or tour to match your requirements, time, budget, fitness level, and group size. Contact us today and let’s design the Himalayan journey that’s right for you.
Customize Trip

Annapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill – 10 Days Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu (private vehicle)
  • 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing, breakfast included)
  • 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara (twin sharing, breakfast included)
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu (with airport transfers)
  • Private vehicle transport: Pokhara–Nayapul and Matkyou–Pokhara
  • 8 nights in standard teahouses/lodges along the trekking route (twin sharing)
  • All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee)
  • Government-certified English-speaking trekking guide
  • 1 porter for every 2 trekkers (max 15–20kg per porter)
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Basic first aid kit carried by the guide
  • Welcome dinner with cultural program in Kathmandu
  • All applicable government taxes and service charges

Excludes

  • International flights to/from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fee (can be obtained on arrival)
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (excluding welcome dinner)
  • Personal trekking gear (boots, poles, backpack, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver
  • Wi-Fi, battery charging, and hot showers on the trek (available at some lodges for a small fee)
  • Snacks, bottled water, and alcoholic or soft drinks during the trek
  • Any additional costs not mentioned under “Inclusives”

Essential Information

Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

All participants must carry comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 4,500 meters), medical treatment, and emergency helicopter evacuation. You’ll be required to share your insurance details before the trek begins.

Altitude and Acclimatization

This trek is a gentle ascend, so your body acclimatizes on its own. Although you ascend to 4,130 meters to reach Annapurna Base Camp, the probability of altitude sickness is moderate. Your guide is trained to observe the symptoms and respond to any issues. Trek gradually, drink lots of water, and rest when you want to.

Drinking Water

There is safe drinking water everywhere along the trail. Teahouses offer boiled or bottled water, but to keep from adding to plastic waste, it is best for trekkers to bring along a refillable water bottle and use purification tablets or a water filter.

Toilets and Showers

Most teahouses provide basic toilet facilities—shared squat or western toilet. There are hot showers at lower altitudes (with a small fee), although at higher altitudes they may be limited due to cold weather and lack of water.

Mobile Network & Connectivity

Nepal Telecom and Ncell give coverage to most of the villages in the lower villages like Ghorepani and Chhomrong. Signal weakens as you go up and may be absent at the Annapurna Base Camp. There's Wi-Fi in a few lodges at a fee, but speed and reliability are bad.

Food on the Trek

Teahouses supply simple, stimulating food: dal bhat (lentils and rice), pasta, noodles, momos, soups, and porridge. Breakfast is generally pancakes, eggs, toast, or porridge. Vegetarian and vegan meals are readily available. Food is locally made, fresh, and ideal for trekking energy.

Responsible Trekking

Altitude Quest follows ethical and responsible trekking practices. We pay fair wages to porters and guides, minimize plastic use, and promote respect for local culture and nature. Please follow "Leave No Trace" principles during your visit.

Tipping Guidelines

Tips are appreciated and standard in Nepal. We suggest giving about USD 10–15 per day to guides and USD 5–10 per day to porters, split among your group. You can tip more if service is outstanding.

Annapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill – 10 Days FAQs

The trek is moderately challenging and doesn't require technical climb. Every day's hike is 4 to 7 hours, typically comprising ascents and descents on forest trails or stone steps. Anyone with normal fitness and determination can achieve this trek, including the beginners.

Not necessarily. This is a beginner trail for those who want to attempt an adventure trek, as well as an advanced trekker's trail. As long as you are physically fit, can walk uphill several hours a day, and mentally resilient enough for the journey, prior trekking experience is not required.

The high point of this trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters. While altitude sickness cannot be excluded, the acclimatization days and the slow ascent reduce the likelihood to zero. Your guide will be trained to test for and treat symptoms should they arise.

During trekking, you will stay at locally-owned teahouses that have clean twin-sharing rooms, simple but clean. Most of them have dormitory toilet and dining facilities. In Pokhara and Kathmandu, you will have 3-star hotels with modern amenities.

All meals during the trek are included, dinner, lunch, and breakfast, accompanied by tea or coffee. Meals are supplied hot at teahouses and include dal bhat, noodles, soups, pancakes, eggs, fried rice, and others. Vegetarian and vegan food is also offered.

Yes, at lower points like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong, mobile signal and Wi-Fi are generally available (at additional cost). But at higher points like Deurali and Annapurna Base Camp, signals can be weak or even absent, so high-altitude digital detox awaits you.

You will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS Card. Both are necessary to trek here, and we will have them organized for you in full, no hassle for you.

Absolutely. The route is well-established and popular. Our guides and porters are professional, respectful, and trained to support solo female travelers. Safety, comfort, and cultural sensitivity are always our top priorities.

Gallery
Download PdfCustomize Trip
Price Per Person US$1075US$1250
Group Discount Price
No. of travelerPrice per person
2 - 4 pax
US$1250
4 - 10 pax
US$1025
10 - 20 pax
US$950
Book This Trip