Are you planning Pokhara to Poon Hill Trek and wondering how much distance you need to make travel and which route you should take?
Pokhara to Poon Hill trek distance is 62 kilometers. Having the best well-established trekking trail, Poon Hill is one of the shortest and easiest trekking routes in Nepal. This guide includes all the distance, route, accommodations, and safety information. Without any further delay, let’s dive into the blog.
Table of Contents
Overview of Pokhara to Poon Hill Trek Distance
Poon Hill is one of the shortest treks of a 45-kilometer circuit. Located in Gandaki Province on the border of Myagdi District and Kaski District, Poon Hill is the key viewpoint in the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. It lies in the Centre of the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can see mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Macchapuchare, Hinchuli, Dhaulagiri, and many other tall peaks from the viewpoint.
Just 270 km west of Kathmandu, the hiking distance from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes 3-4 days, depending on your itinerary. With moderate-level difficulty, the trekking trail is suitable for trekkers of all ages. It is also recorded as one of the gentler routes and perfect for individuals who want to experience 360-degree views of the Himalayas. Furthermore, since the train is at a lower elevation, you can enjoy some of the best accommodations and food options it offers.
If you ever plan to trek to Poon Hill, consider April the excellent time of the month to see the blooming rhododendron forests. One of the major attractions of the Poon Hill trek is the spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayas. You can also experience the culture of the Gurungs committee, which has inhabited the area for a long time.
Starting the Journey: Pokhara
Nestled in the shadow of the Annapurna Massif, Pokhara is the gateway to numerous trekking trials in Nepal, including the Poon Hill trek. It is 200 km west of Kathmandu.
To reach Pokhara from Kathmandu, book a flight, take a public bus, or hire a private car. One benefit of taking a private ride is that it gives you flexibility in the morning and stops where you want. However, the public bus includes 2 major stops where you have breakfast and lunch and leaves at the fixed time mentioned.
By Flight: 30 minutes (146 km)
The fastest and most convenient option is to take a fight. Several airlines, such as Yeti, Buddha, Surya, and more, operate daily flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara Airport. The flight time is a maximum of 30 minutes. From above the sky, you can see beautiful and enjoyable Himalayan peaks. Also, make sure where your accommodation is to consider the total travel duration.
By Road: 7 to 8 hours (200 km)
Are you looking for the most budget-friendly option to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu? Opt for the road. Drive to Pokhara takes approximately 7 to 8 hours and offers views of stunning snow-capped mountains. Several bus companies offer services from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Book your ticket from the ticket center to avoid fraud.
Private Jeep
Following the same route as the public bus, riding a private jet can reduce your traveling hours to 6-7 hours. A private jet can be perfect if you are traveling in a group. You can select the arrival time, landing location, and many other options based on your preferences.
The Trekking Route: Poon Hill Trek Itinerary
The distance between Pokhara and Poonhill is 62 kilometers. After reaching Pokhara, your journey towards the Poon Hill trek starts.
Throughout the drive from Pokhara, you will see lunch valleys and mesmerizing Himalayan ranges and interact with the local people. Here is a detailed description of the route you can take to Poon Hill.
Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul to Ulleri ( Distance – 45.4 km – 13 km)
To reach Nayapul, you need transportation. Multiple options are available. It takes 1.5 hours to travel from Pokhara to Nayapul. You can hire a private car, jeep, or taxi or ride a shared bike.
Choosing a private ride makes your journey comfortable and fun. You can stop at any place you want and enjoy the beauty of nature. Most trekkers prefer taking a car to Nayapul from Pokhara.
If you are taking the local bus, it helps to save your money. You can find the bus at Baglung Bus Park, which leaves every 30 minutes. The roads are in good condition and offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
You will pass through Phedi, Naudanda, Kande, and Lumle. After reaching Nayapul, your trekking journey starts. You ascend through terraced rice fields and villages like Birethanti, Tikheldhunga, and the Seti Khola River snaking below.
After trekking for almost 13 kilometers and around 7 hours, you finally reach Ulleri. Ulleri is a charming village with beautiful rhododendron forests.
Day 2: Ulleri to Ghorepani (Distance: 8 km)
The trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani is the most attractive section of the entire trip in terms of natural beauty. The trail gradually ascends through pine forests, offering a glimpse of Machapuchhare (Fishtail Peak), Annapurna, and Hiuchuli.
You will pass through some beautiful villages like Banthani and Nangethanti, where you can take a break and have snacks. Waking about 4 to 5 hours from Ullerin, you will reach the Ghorepani at an elevation of 2874 m.
Day 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill (Distance: 5 km)
On the third day of your trek, you will wake up early in the morning and ascend your hike to Poon Hill Viewpoint. Upon reaching the top, you will see the mesmerizing sunrise views over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. You can also see the splendid panoramic view of 10 snow-capped mountains.
After the best morning, you will return to the teahouse in Ghorepani and then trek to Tadapani. This beautiful trail encompasses ups and downs along the stone staircases, passing the delightful forest.
Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (Distance: 6.5 km)
This trail is an easy and short trek in the Annapurna region. The distance from Tadapani to Ghandruk is about 6.5 km/4 miles. To reach Ghandruk, you must cross the plain and descend the trail, which takes about 3-4 hours.
The Ghandruk village is 1960 meters above sea level. This exciting trek passes through lush jungles and alluring pathways. You can explore the village, interact with the locals, and learn more about their culture and way of life.
Day 5: Ghandruk to Pokhara (Diatance: 50 km)
This is the last day of your trek. From Ghandruk, you will descend towards Syaulibazar, passing through remote villages and terraced fields. After an hour in this village, you will descend towards Nayapul.
Upon reaching Nayapul, you can now take transportation and move back to Pokhara. Depending on your preference and budget, you can choose from different transportation modes like bus, jeep, or taxi.
Major Highlights and Attractions of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
- Witnessing the golden light of dawn over the majestic peaks.
- Breathtaking views of 10 beautiful snow-capped mountains.
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Gurung people.
- Savour delicious Nepali dishes along the way.
- Keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna.
- Best Practices for Measuring Trek Distance
You can use two major approaches to measure trek distance effectively: Technology and understanding maps. These two tools help you give the best results if you ever wish to know how much distance you traveled.
Using Technology
Download a reliable GPS tracking app on your mobile phone to measure distances. These apps help you track your movements and calculate the distance you have covered throughout the trek. Some popular trekking apps are Gaia GPS, Wikiloc, and MapMyWalk. You can also use smartwatches and fitness bands with GPS incorporated. Garmin, TomTom, and others make GPS watches for runners and cyclists that also work for walkers.
Understanding Maps
Purchase a high-quality topographical map of the trek region. These maps show elevation contours, trails, distance between points, and other landmarks. It gives a clear overview of the terrain, requires no batteries, and enables route planning and adjustments. However, to understand the landmarks, you must have good map-reading skills.
Challenges and Considerations of Poonhill Trek
Although the Poon Hill trek has a well-established route, there are some major challenges and considerations you should take into account.
Challenges
- Altitude: Nestled at 3210 meters, the trek involves gradual ascent throughout. Altitude sickness can occur, causing headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness.
- Uneven Terrain: The train consists of step sections, stone steps, and uneven paths.
- Weather: The weather in the Himalayas of Nepal is unpredictable. Monsoons bring heavy rain and landslides, so it’s best to avoid trekking this season.
- Accommodation: Tea houses are the primary source of accommodation along the trek. They offer basic amenities like beds, blankets, and meals.
Consideration
- Physical Fitness: We recommend maintaining a moderate base fitness level. Do some regular exercise months before your journey.
- Acclimatization: Allow sufficient time for acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Listen to your body and ascend slowly.
- Permits: Before starting your trek, obtain all the necessary permits. You can obtain these in the Pokhara or Khumbu Region.
- Insurance: Invest in trekking insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and evacuation.
- Guide and Porter: Considering guide and porter to enhance your trekking experience and maintain high safety.
Accommodations
If you trek to Poon Hill, you should prepare yourself to stay at the teahouses, as the area relies on them for accommodation. These are family-run lodges scattered along the trail, offering a rustic charm. Teahouses are also the best chance to experience the local culture.
Teahouses provide basic amenities like beds with pillows, sheets, and blankets. Staying in teahouses means you will share bathrooms and encounter squat toilets. Hot water is available for an extra charge. There are two beds in each room. Basically, you need to share a room. They also provide meals like dal, bhat, vegetables, and sometimes noodles.
If uncomfortable with these arrangements, you can also carry your sleeping bag. Always book your room in advance, and it’s best to consider booking through a trekking agency. Also, always carry cash; do not use credit cards at treehouses.
Health and Safety
The Poon Hill trek is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Annapurna region. However, like any mountain adventure, prioritizing health and safety is crucial. Here’s how to maintain safety and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.
- Consult the doctor if you have a medical condition and discuss your trekking plan with them.
- Invest in trekking insurance that covers medical emergencies.
- Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Stay hydrated even if you are not hungry at least 3-4 liters of water throughout the trail.
- Dress in layers to protect yourself from cold, and consider waterproof jackets, as the weather is unpredictable.
- Carry a first aid kit containing pain relievers, bandages, and necessary medicines.
Conclusion
The total distance of the Poon Hill trek varies depending on the route chosen but typically falls between 51 to 64 kilometers. This moderate trek offers breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and cultural immersion. While the distance may seem daunting, the gradual ascent, stunning views, and the satisfaction of reaching Poon Hill make it a rewarding adventure for trekkers of all levels.
Contact Hillary Step Trek if you plan to book your trip through a travel agency. We are a government-registered company with over 70% retention rate. We offer 7 days itinerary service starting from Kathmandu to Poon Hill Trek. Some amenities included in our package are transportation, meals, accommodation, and experienced guides. Book with us.
