- Trekking
Our adventure to Poon Hill began from Nayapul, a short drive from Pokhara. Although we completed the trek in just one day, if I could do it again, I’d definitely spread it over two days—it’s a much more enjoyable and less exhausting experience that way.
If you're planning the same route, I recommend taking a break at Ulleri. The trail up to Ulleri is steep, with hundreds of stone steps that challenge even the fittest legs. Trust me, you don't want to arrive in Ghorepani completely drained, especially since the real highlight—the sunrise hike to Poon Hill—requires waking up around 4:00 or 4:30 a.m. for a 45-minute uphill climb in the dark.
We managed to make it in one day, but it meant trekking part of the route in the dark. If you’re thinking of doing the same, don’t forget your torch or headlamp. It’s not the safest or most recommended approach, but it worked for us with some preparation.
If you're taking the two-day route (which I highly recommend), the second day takes you from Ulleri to Ghorepani, a charming village nestled in the hills. There are plenty of tea houses and lodges with surprisingly good food and cozy accommodations. Try to book ahead, especially in peak seasons.
After spending the night in Ghorepani, we woke up before dawn, bundled up, grabbed our headlamps, and set off for Poon Hill. The trail in the early morning is quiet and magical, and once you reach the top, you’re greeted with one of the most breathtaking panoramas I’ve ever seen.
At 3,210 meters, Poon Hill offers a wide, open viewpoint with unobstructed views of some of the Himalayas’ finest peaks—Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and even Mt. Manaslu, among others. As the sun rises, the snow-capped mountains slowly turn golden, a moment so surreal it feels like time pauses.
This trek isn’t just about the views, though—they're just the cherry on top. It’s about the journey, the people you meet along the way, the tiny villages, the sound of river streams, and the warm smiles at the tea houses.
If you're heading to Nepal and looking for a trek that's short but incredibly rewarding, Poon Hill should be at the top of your list. Just take your time, soak in every step, and don’t forget to look up—the mountains are waiting.