Annapurna Base Camp Trek Via Poon Hill – 8 Days

Nayapul

From Pokhara head on an hour and a half drive towards Nayapul. Nayapul is the starting point of the trek. From Nayapul begin the trek traversing through a steep trail across the lush woodlands. After a while, the trail drops to a bridge over a small stream leading to the village of Birethanti. From Birethanti take the left branch of the trail on the west side of the bridge. As you progress you will reach the Annapurna Conservation Area Project Check post.

Hereafter your ACAP permits are inspected following the forested trail of bamboo, you will reach a large waterfall and a swimming hole, the village of Sudami. From here ascending a hill section on the side of the valley reach the village of Hille. A brief walk from here will eventually lead you to the settlement of Thikhedhunga. Next following a series of stairs, you will finally reach the Ulleri.

Maximum Altitude: 2050m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Ghorepani

Start the trek following the ascending tracks through sections of deep wilderness on a well-maintained series of stone stairs. Along the way witness splendid views of the landscapes. The never-ending jungles, soaring high waterfalls, scattered villages, and the mighty snowcapped mountains.

Ghorepani translates as “water well” and is an ancient stop along this route for the caravan of horses and mules. Nestled at an elevation of 2874 meters/ 9429 feet, this settlement has several tea-house providing grand views of the Annapurna range. Upon reaching Ghorepani after a brief rest head out to witness the majestic views of the sunset. The mountain peaks of Annapurna South and Nilgiri changing their colors.

Maximum Altitude: 2750m
Duration: 4-5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Our guest at poonhill

Wake up before dawn and head towards Poon Hill, which is regarded as one of the best vantage points in the Annapurna region. From Poon Hill get incredible views up to Mustang, Pokhara, and more than 20 of the highest mountains in the region.
The climb to the top takes around a couple of hours on an ascending trail with well-maintained series of stairs. Upon reaching the top witness views of the great landscapes of the deep wilderness and the snowcapped peaks. Mountain peaks from Dhaulagiri to Annapurna to Machhapuchhre: Dhaulagiri I ( 8167m), Tukuche (6920m), Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and Tarke Kang (7193m). All standing at its grandeur basking in the morning rays of the sun and changing their colors.
After exploring Poon Hill head towards Tadapani. Traversing across the deep wilderness of sub-tropical woodlands smeared by orchids and ferns with miles of undergrowth. Passing various settlements and river networks you will eventually reach Tadapani. Upon reaching Tadapani head out to explore the region and start a friendly conversation with the locals. Later enjoy awe-inspiring views during the sunset, changing the snowcapped Annapurna South and Fishtail into colorful vistas.

Maximum Altitude: 3210m
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Tadapani Village

Descend through the deep wilderness of rhododendron forests, hemlock, fir, and blue pine. As you progress cross a suspension bridge. From here you will be ascending a steep section of around 5 km. Following the incline, reach the village of Komrong. Next following the downhill track, you will finally reach the village of Chhomrong. A village perched right below the massive Annapurna. A short walk of a couple of hours and finally reach the village of Sinuwa. From the village witness grand views of the mountains and river networks.

Maximum Altitude: 2100m
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Derali Village

Start the trek following the deeply forested trails of the region. As you progress on the trail you will be traversing through the damp and cold bamboo forest. Then the trail takes you on a steep ascending section. Following the route, the tree line disappears, and you will be traversing dry landscapes with patches of shrubs. After a while, you will be trekking along the riverbed. Following the much drier forest, you will reach Hinku Cave. A natural shelter used by trekkers and expeditions in the past.

From Hinku Cave the trail drops closer to the river before climbing again to Deurali. As you approach Deurali the valley widens up presenting you with a wide view of the river networks, high sheer rocky cliffs, and waterfalls. Upon reaching Deurali head towards your accommodation and rest.

Maximum Altitude: 3174m
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Our guest at Annapurna Base Camp

Start the trek climbing gently through the riverbed and then over a steep trail on the mountainside. Following the rugged mountain country trail with an arid landscape and less vegetation, you will eventually reach Machhapuchhre base camp. From here witness striking views of the majestic Machhapuchhre along with adjacent snow-capped peaks.
Next, head towards Annapurna Base camp. This section of the trail is somewhat out of a fairytale. Rings of mountains, streams, and wildflowers bloom in the region. Regarded as the abode of Gods, the region has a very special place in the heart of the locals. As, you progress get string views of Mt. Himchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gandharvachuli, Gangapurna, and other mountain peaks. Also witness huge icefalls, glaciers, and a series of the moraine. Upon reaching the base camp head towards your accommodation. At sunset head out to witness grand views and later in the evening if you are not tired head for stargazing.

Maximum Altitude: 4130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Our guest at Annapurna Base Camp

Wake up before dawn and head out to catch the glorious views of the sunrise. The snow-white peaks danced with rays of the sun. After exploring the base camp pack your bags and head on downhill tracks towards Bamboo. From Bamboo traversing along the forested trail following the descending route reach Sinuwa. Upon reaching Sinuwa head towards your tea house and rest. Later head out and explore the settlement.

Maximum Altitude: 4130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Duration: 7-8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse

Pokhara: Phewa Lake

Today's trek is short. From Sinuwa following the deep wilderness of the region head on a descending trail. As you progress on the trial reach the village of Chhomrong.

From Chhomrong move towards Jhinu Danda. From Jhinu Danda crosses a long suspension bridge over Kimrong Khola and eventually reach Siwai. From Siwai head on a short drive towards the city of lakes Pokhara. Upon arriving at Pokhara head towards your accommodation and after a brief rest explore the region. Stroll by the banks of the Phew Lake and visit various pubs and restaurants in the region.

NOTE: All of the trekking hours and distances mentioned above are estimates and should only be used as a general guideline.

Maximum Altitude: 2100m (Sinuwa)
Duration: 3 hours trek and 2-3 hours drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel