Annapurna & Poon Hill Sunrise Trek
A customisable trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary and Poon Hill
This adventure combines two classic treks featuring the Annapurna Sanctuary and Poon Hill. From Pokhara you'll trek up through forests to reach Ghorepani, and you’ll join the traditional route up to Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhare Base Camp. This trip can also easily be extended. You’ll return home with beautiful memories of that panorama sunrise.
Key information
| Destinations | Annapurna Region, Kathmandu |
|---|---|
| Activity | Adventure, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Nature & Wildlife, Culture, Solo Travel |
| Physical Level | Strenuous |
 Season |
September - May |
This itinerary would cost from $1,350 per person with our Nepal specialist.
Suggested itinerary
Arrive Kathmandu, fly to Pokhara and trek to Tirkedhunga Village
Day 1–2 in Pokhara
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you'll be met and receive a private transfer into central Kathmandu and to the KGH Hotel in the heart of the Thamel district. Get a briefing on your forthcoming adventure, and in the evening enjoy dinner in one of the many choices of cafes & restaurants in the city.
The next day there will be a private transfer to the airport for the flight to Pokhara. A private transfer takes you to the trek’s start at Nayapul. Follow an ascending trail to reach Tirkhedhunga (approx. 1600m). Walking time around 6 hours, 580m of ascent. One option is to overnight in Pokhara as an extra day and have some time by the lake before setting off.
Trek Ghorepani
Day 3 in Ghorepani
It's a steep climb of 2 hours to Ulleri (2070m) and mainly uphill as you continue to Banthanti, with impressive Himalayan views. Crossing a stream, the trail climbs to reach Nangethanti. The uphill continues until bustling Ghorepani (2900m), always considered a stopping place between the Kali Gandaki Valley and Pokhara. Walking time 6-7 hours, 1300m of ascent.
Poon Hill Sunrise and Trek to Tadapani
Day 4 in Poon Hill
Wake up before dawn to ascend to the top of nearby Poon Hill (3210m) to see the sunrise at this classic view point. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then it's time to descend. Walking time is around 5 hours, plus 1-2hrs for the excursion to Poon Hill. Total descent 580m.
Trek to Chhomrong
Day 5 in Chhomrong
At first, the trail follows the steep hillside, with short sections of ascent and descent until Chuile (2309m). The trail then begins to descend more steeply to cross a river via a suspension bridge, followed by a few hours more contour walking to reach Chhomrong (2210m). Walking time approx 6hrs.
Trek to Bamboo
Day 6 in Sinuwa Hill
Start by descending a stone-stepped trail, and then you have to ascend through forests and emerge at Sinuwa Hill. Some great views of the Annapurnas and Fishtail make it worthwhile. The trail mostly contours the hill side before dropping down to Bamboo (2315m), a collection of trekking lodges. Walking distance 8km, around 5hrs, with 850m of ascent/785m.
Trek Deurali
Day 7 in Deurali
You continue up the Modi Khola Valley and 90 minutes beyond Dovan the trail can vary due to avalanches and detours are uncertain. Passing Hinko Cave, it's a continual rise to Deurali (3170m). Walking distance 12.5km,1000m of ascent and 190m descent, 5-6hrs.
Trek to Machhapucchare Base Camp (MBC)
Day 8 in Machhapucchare Base Camp
Today is a shorter walk. You're heading above 3000m and feeling the effects of altitude. So, it’s recommended to go slowly as you ascend and pass into the Sanctuary. From here things open out scenery wise. It's around 3hrs walking/3.5km and 620m ascent.
Trek to the Annapurna Sanctuary
Day 9 in Annapurna Sanctuary
This sanctuary is the prize for your efforts as you head up a steep trail, possibly through snow. One final steep section and then the mountain amphitheatre will appear. The distance is 3.5km, 550m of ascent, 100m descent, 3-4hrs walking. Overnight at 4130m.
Fly to Kathmandu via Pokhara and depart
Day 10–11 in Pokhara
A private transfer takes you to Pokhara Airport for the short flight back to Kathmandu. A private transfer will take you from the airport back to the KGH. However, you may wish to consider some additional contingency days, for any delays/cancellations for internal flights , or any difficulties that may arise.
A private transfer will take you to the airport for your return international flight.
Where to stay
Many treks feature accommodation in trekking lodges, historically called "teahouses" in Nepal. About 85% of people who go trekking in Nepal are undertaking a teahouse trek. These are usually independent, family owned affairs. They are usually very small, simple and basic.
The teahouses are often remote and isolated, with absolutely everything carried in and carried out, or sourced locally.
Usually all meals are included on your trek. Although meals provided by the teahouses will vary, it is always plentiful in quantity.n
Teahouse
Chisapani Teahouse lodge
Teahouses are Nepal's traditional trekking accommodation. They're usually family-owned and basic but they provide welcome shelter from the elements and a warm meal!
Simple
Hotel Karuna
A friendly, family run hotel located close to the "Lakeside Strip" of Pokhara. A very pleasant, relaxed place to stay.
Simple
Thasang Comfort Lodge
A fairly new comfort lodge, dramatically perched high above the Kali Gandaki Valley with sensational views, and comfy rooms (proper beds, bathroom, electricity etc).
Simple
Annapurna Comfort Lodge
Set in the heart of Kagbeni on a narrow cobbled street with real Mustang locals for neighbours, this place is basic but cosy and comfortable and beats the usual 'teahouses' hands down.
Classic
KGH Hotel
The original Kathmandu Guest House, updated as a comfortable hotel to 3* standard. It's slap bang in the middle of Thamel and surrounded by excellent dining options.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from $1,350pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
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Speak to Snow Cat Travel for expert advice
This tour is operated by
Snow Cat Travel
