A very well-known vantage point of the Annapurna region, the Poon hill trek is an excursion that takes travelers to Ghorepani Poon hill. Offering a wonderful vista of Mount Annapurna range, the journey presents a precise Himalayan life under the shadow of the giant mountains. During the journey, you'll get the sights of the transcending snow-peaked mountains as you make your way across waterway valleys filled with lush green forests and woods. Considering the length, the cultural and natural richness, and the diversity of sceneries that the poonhill trek offers. It is an exceptional travel choice to endeavor for an extraordinary experience of trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.
Situated at an elevation of 3210 m, the Poon hill trek falls under the easy grade trek. It is suitable for all levels of trekkers, from novices to experts. The trek is also a great alternative for other longer treks in the Annapurna region, as it is equally fulfilling and rewarding when it comes to sceneries and mountain culture. Anyone who wants to explore the mountains of Nepal and experience the Himalayan lifestyle can commence the journey as it is short and easy.
The Best Vantage Point of the Annapurna region
There are several other viewpoints in the Annapurna region, but none of them can top the Poonhill when it comes to the views of the mountains. In fact, the Poonhill vantage point is considered to be one of the best in entire Nepal. Because of the fact that it doesn't require much time and energy to hike to the top of the viewpoint, the trek is mostly preferred by first-time trekkers.
Not just beginners, but it is noticed that many trekkers choose to trek Poonhill time and again. The explanation for this is the wonderful scene of the heavenly Annapurna Himalayas, which is visible from Poon hill. The 360 degrees vista of the Himalayas like Machhapuchhre (6997m), Tukuche (6920m), Nilgiri (7061m), Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli(6441m), Annapurna South (7219m), Gangapurna (7454m), LamjungHimal (6986m), and Mt Dhaulagiri (8167m) leaves the most remarkable impact on the travelers.
Except for the point to catch the majestic sight of the mountains, the Poonhill is also a great site for witnessing the magical sunrise and sunset view. Especially, most of the trekkers hike to the viewpoint early in the morning to glimpse the sight of the first ray of sun from between the Himalayas.
A quick but incredibly enriching trekking excursion
The trek without any doubt is enriching when it comes to the natural sight of mountains. Besides that, the journey to the Poonhill has trails that go through ethnic Magar and Gurung settlements and towns along the Annapurna Mountains. It provides you with an opportunity to observe the ethnic culture and way of life of the Annapurna locale. In a brief period, during this journey, you can encounter the traditional way of life and culture of the local community. You'll pass through several villages like; Ulleri, Tadapani, Ghorepani, etc. A balanced trek with an absolutely short and simple plan, the Poonhill trek is a journey everyone must commence once in their lifetime.
The detailed trail to the Poon hill viewpoint
The journey to the poonhill initially begins in the city of lakes, Pokhara. Depending on the walking speed and strength of the trekkers, the trek can be completed in 4-6 days. From Pokhara, one of the easiest trails you can take for your journey to Poonhill is through the village of Ulleri. Ulleri is a small village of the Magar people, up to where you can reach through a vehicle.
Once you arrive in Ulleri, your journey by foot begins as you ascend toward the village of Ghorepani. It takes a walk of around 5 to 6 hours from Ulleri to reach Ghorepani. The Magar village of Ghorepani is located right beneath Poon Hill. You can get some astounding views of mountains like; Annapurna South (7219m) and the Nilgiri Peak (7061m) from the Ghorepani village as well.
The next day early in the morning, you'll start the hike to the Poonhill viewpoint from the Ghorepani village. The trail to the top is mostly uphill stairs and it takes around 2 to 3 hours of walking to reach there. Once you arrive at the viewpoint, you'll be amazed by the magnificent sights of the mountains as the first ray of sun hits those snow-covered mountains. After spending some time at the top relishing the vistas of the serene mountains, you will hike back to Ghorepani. Later, from Ghorepani, you can either choose to descend through the same route you took to ascend, or you can descend to the village Tadapani. The trail to Tadapani is filled with wonderful rhododendron woods and waterfalls.
Overall, it is a short yet very easy trail. Despite the fact it is quick and leisurely, it doesn't lack anyway in natural and cultural beauty and diversity.
Best time to trek to Poonhill
The Poonhill trek is possible to complete at any time of the year. Given the fact, it is short, easy, and doesn't lie at high altitudes. Nevertheless, it is extremely crucial to get updated about the weather conditions of the location before you begin your trekking journey.
Although the trek can be accomplished throughout the year, like any other trek, spring, and autumn are the two best seasons to complete the trek to Poonhill. The climate is temperate with a clear sky, and there is less chance of rainfall in the spring, which makes it a convenient time for trekking. Also, in the spring, you'll be able to enjoy the trail full of rhododendron trees.
Similar to spring, autumn is another season perfect for completing the excursion to Poonhill. With a favorable temperature and clear weather, you get to enjoy the exquisite scenery of the mountain ranges and green landscapes in autumn. It is possible to complete the trek in winter and monsoon as well, but you might have to encounter a few difficulties during these seasons.
