Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek – 17 Days

The Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek – 17 Days is a carefully crafted adventure that combines two of Nepal’s most iconic trekking regions—the Annapurna and Everest. Designed for trekkers seeking both natural splendor and cultural immersion, this journey offers breathtaking mountain vistas, serene villages, and an intimate experience of Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Organized by the Alpine Club of Himalaya, this trek is ideal for travelers who want to experience the best of the Himalayas without venturing into extreme altitudes.

The adventure begins in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city filled with historic temples and bustling bazaars. A short scenic flight takes you to Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside city framed by the towering Annapurna range. The trek officially starts from Nayapul, leading you through terraced hillsides, rhododendron forests, and traditional Gurung villages. The highlight of this section is Poon Hill (3,210 meters), one of the most celebrated viewpoints in the Himalayas. At sunrise, witness the golden hues illuminating Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and other peaks—a memory that will stay with you for a lifetime.

After exploring the charming village of Ghandruk, the trek returns to Pokhara, followed by a flight back to Kathmandu. From there, the second phase of the trek begins with a thrilling flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The trail winds through the UNESCO-listed Sagarmatha National Park, filled with pine forests, rivers, and iconic suspension bridges. You'll trek to Namche Bazaar, the vibrant heart of Sherpa culture, and ascend to Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual hub of the Khumbu region and the highest monastery in Nepal. From here, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.

Throughout the journey, you'll stay in comfortable tea houses and lodges, interact with friendly locals, and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and natural heritage of Nepal. With a moderate difficulty level and well-paced itinerary, this trek is suitable for anyone in good health with a spirit for adventure.

The Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek offers the rare opportunity to experience the two crown jewels of Nepal in a single trip. With the expert guidance and hospitality of the Alpine Club of Himalaya, this 17-day trek promises an enriching and unforgettable Himalayan journey.

Best Time to Trek

The best time for the Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. In spring, the weather is generally stable, and the trails are adorned with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, especially in the Annapurna region. Autumn is equally favorable due to clear skies, mild temperatures, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. These months provide the perfect balance between favorable weather conditions and trail accessibility, making the journey enjoyable and safe.

Physical Fitness and Requirements

This trek is suitable for individuals with a moderate level of fitness. The Poonhill section involves relatively gentle ascents and descents through well-trodden trails and stone staircases. It’s perfect for beginner to intermediate trekkers. In contrast, the Everest View section includes steeper trails and higher altitudes, particularly around Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, requiring better stamina and physical conditioning. While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and the ability to walk for several hours daily are essential.

Difficulty Level

The Poonhill trek is considered an easy to moderate trek, ideal for families, first-time trekkers, and those seeking a scenic Himalayan experience without the strain of high altitudes. The Everest View trek is rated moderate due to the higher elevation and more rugged terrain. The altitude in the Everest region does not exceed 3,867 meters (Tengboche), but the trails are steeper and can be physically demanding. Proper acclimatization and pacing help minimize fatigue and health risks.

Weather and Environment

Weather conditions vary between the two regions. In the Annapurna region (Poonhill), the lower elevation means milder temperatures and less wind. The trails pass through terraced fields, dense forests, and charming villages. The Everest region is cooler and drier, with alpine terrain, pine forests, and snow-capped peaks. Spring and autumn offer the clearest skies and most comfortable temperatures, while summer brings monsoon rains and winter features colder but quieter trails.

Weather Challenges

Despite the generally favorable conditions in peak seasons, weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Sudden rain, snowfall at higher altitudes, and cloudy skies may affect visibility and trail safety. During the monsoon (June to August), trails can become muddy and leech-infested, while winter (December to February) may bring icy paths and snowfall, especially around Tengboche. Proper gear, updated forecasts, and flexible itineraries are key to handling these challenges.

Acclimatization

Acclimatization is more relevant in the Everest View section, where altitudes exceed 3,000 meters. Spending an extra night in Namche Bazaar allows the body to adjust to the thinner air, reducing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The Poonhill trek, with a maximum elevation of 3,210 meters, poses minimal risk of altitude-related issues. Drinking plenty of fluids, walking at a steady pace, and avoiding alcohol help with proper acclimatization.

Meals

During the trek, you’ll be provided with three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—at teahouses or lodges. Meals are freshly prepared and offer a mix of local Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momos, and thukpa, along with international options such as pasta, fried rice, and pancakes. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll find a wide variety of cuisine, from traditional Newari food to international dining. Dietary preferences and vegetarian meals are easily accommodated along the trail.

Drinking Water

Clean drinking water is essential throughout the trek. Bottled mineral water is available at teahouses and shops along the trail, although it becomes more expensive at higher altitudes. To reduce plastic waste and save costs, trekkers are encouraged to carry reusable water bottles and use water purification tablets or filtration devices. Many lodges also offer boiled water for a small fee, which is safe for drinking.

Accommodation

Accommodation during the trek is in local teahouses, which are comfortable, clean, and cozy. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with basic furniture and shared or attached bathrooms depending on the location. While amenities in the Everest region can be more basic due to remoteness, the hospitality remains warm and welcoming. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodation ranges from tourist-class hotels to boutique stays with modern facilities, providing a relaxing start and end to your trek.

TIMS and Permits

To undertake the Poonhill and Everest View Trek, trekkers need to obtain necessary permits. For the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card are required. For the Everest region, you’ll need the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit. These permits are checked at various checkpoints and help ensure your safety throughout the trek.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency medical evacuation by helicopter, trip cancellation, loss or theft of personal belongings, and delays. It's essential to carry a printed copy of your insurance and ensure the policy explicitly mentions coverage for trekking activities above 3,000 meters. This provides peace of mind and practical support in case of unexpected incidents.

Passport and Visa

Foreign nationals must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity to enter Nepal. Tourist visas can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in advance from a Nepali embassy. The visa is available for durations of 15, 30, or 90 days and can be extended at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Ensure you carry a few passport-sized photos and the required fees in cash.

Why Choose This Trek

The Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek is ideal for those who want to experience the best of Nepal's two most iconic trekking regions within a manageable timeframe. From the glowing sunrise over the Annapurna Range to the majestic views of Everest from Tengboche, this trek offers dramatic landscapes, authentic cultural encounters, and accessible adventure. It’s a perfect blend of lush hills, alpine terrain, spiritual landmarks, and vibrant mountain communities—all without extreme altitude or long trekking days.

Why Choose Alpine Club of Himalaya

With decades of experience and a passion for creating unforgettable journeys, Alpine Club of Himalaya offers expert-guided trekking adventures with a focus on safety, personalized service, and cultural immersion. Our professional guides are licensed, knowledgeable, and dedicated to making your trip seamless. From customized itineraries to responsive support, we ensure every aspect of your trek is handled with care and professionalism, allowing you to focus on the adventure.

Lukla Flight and Alternatives

The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is one of the most scenic and exciting parts of the Everest trek. However, during peak travel seasons, flights may operate from Ramechhap Airport (Manthali) instead of Kathmandu due to air traffic restrictions. Ramechhap is a 4–5-hour drive from Kathmandu and requires an early morning transfer. Alternatively, helicopter flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are available for those seeking a faster and more flexible option.

Pokhara Flight Info and Alternatives

Flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara operate daily and take about 25 minutes, offering fantastic views of the Himalayas. This is the quickest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities, especially for trekkers on a tight schedule. However, weather conditions may cause delays, so overland travel is a viable backup option. Tourist buses, private vehicles, and micro vans are available for a 6–8-hour scenic drive through Nepal’s middle hills and river valleys.

Baggage Allowance for Lukla Flight (Everest Region)

For the Kathmandu to Lukla flight, which is a key segment of the Everest View portion of the trek, the baggage allowance is limited due to aircraft size and weight restrictions. Domestic airlines typically allow a total of 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, which includes 10 kg of checked luggage and 5 kg of hand-carry. These flights use small twin-otter planes, and exceeding the limit may result in extra charges or delayed transport of your luggage, subject to availability. It is essential to pack light and smart—Alpine Club of Himalaya provides a duffel bag for porters to carry your trekking gear, while you should carry a small daypack with daily essentials. Any unnecessary items can be stored securely at your hotel in Kathmandu during the trek.

Baggage Allowance for Pokhara Flight (Annapurna Region)

For the Kathmandu to Pokhara flight, which initiates the Poonhill segment of your trek, the standard baggage allowance is also 15 kg per person, combining 10 kg checked baggage and 5 kg hand luggage. While airlines may be slightly more flexible on this route than the Lukla sector, it's still recommended to stay within the limit to avoid excess fees. Since this flight uses small regional aircraft, hard-shell suitcases are not ideal; a soft trekking duffel and compact daypack are best suited. Alpine Club of Himalaya arranges porter service for your main bag, and your daypack should contain water, snacks, sun protection, and other essentials for daily use. Extra luggage not needed on the trail can be stored safely in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Final Notes

Before beginning your Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek – 17 Days, it is essential to ensure that all your travel and trekking preparations are in place to enjoy a smooth and fulfilling Himalayan adventure. This journey combines scenic cultural exploration with moderate trekking at higher altitudes, so adequate planning is key to comfort and safety. We strongly recommend that you pack appropriate gear suited for both the Annapurna and Everest regions, which may include varied climates ranging from warm valley days to cold alpine mornings.

Make sure your trekking boots are well broken in, your layered clothing system is tested, and your physical conditioning is adequate for multiple days of continuous walking. While the trek is designed to be accessible to those with a reasonable level of fitness, it includes both gradual and steep ascents, so being well-prepared physically will enhance your experience significantly.

The Alpine Club of Himalaya is committed to your safety, satisfaction, and unforgettable moments in the mountains. Should you have any questions about equipment, logistics, or the itinerary, our experienced team is always ready to assist—before, during, and after your trek.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by the Participant

If you choose to cancel your booking for the Poonhill Sunrise and Everest View Trek, you must notify the Alpine Club of Himalaya in writing (via official email or written communication). The following cancellation charges apply, based on the number of days before the trek start date:

• 60 days or more prior to departure:
  A cancellation fee of 20% of the total trek cost will be retained to cover administrative and pre-booking costs.
• 30 to 59 days before departure:
  A cancellation fee of 50% of the total trek cost will be charged.
• Less than 30 days before departure:
  No refunds will be issued, and the full amount paid will be considered non-refundable.

These fees account for pre-arranged services such as domestic flights, teahouse reservations, guide and porter assignments, and transportation arrangements, which are confirmed in advance.

Cancellation by the Organizer

In the unlikely event that Alpine Club of Himalaya must cancel the trek due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control—such as severe weather, natural disasters, political unrest, or safety issues—you will be offered one of the following:

• A full refund of all payments made for the trek, or
• The option to reschedule the trek to a future available date.

Please note that such cancellations are only made when absolutely necessary, and participant safety remains our highest priority.

Force Majeure Clause

The Alpine Club of Himalaya shall not be held responsible for any delays, interruptions, or cancellations caused by force majeure events, which include but are not limited to:

• Natural disasters (earthquakes, landslides, floods, etc.)
• Political instability, protests, or government-imposed travel restrictions
• Epidemics, pandemics, or public health emergencies
• Airline cancellations, airspace closures, or transportation strikes

In such cases, any additional expenses (such as extended hotel stays, rescheduled flights, or insurance-related costs) must be borne by the participant. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, medical evacuation, emergency rescue, and coverage for unforeseen force majeure events prior to your arrival in Nepal.