Classic Poon Hill Round Trek

Pitam Deurali: A Scenic Stop

Before reaching Tolka, today’s campsite, trekkers will pass a small tea/lunch spot called Pitam Deurali (2,134 meters) at the top of a hill. This spot divides the trails for the Mardi Himal trek and the Classic Mardi Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Also known as Bhichok Deurali or just Deurali, Pitam Deurali is a ridge-top tea/lunch stop offering basic lodges and eye-catching views from the place.

Relaxing at Jhinu Danda

On the Classic Poon Hill round trip, trekkers are in for a real treat at Jhinu Danda. The natural hot springs here provide a perfect place to relax while enjoying the view of the rushing river. The day’s second hike to Jhinu Danda (1,780 meters) involves a steep 30-minute descent through lush forests rich with flora and fauna, including spectacular rhododendrons. The hot spring pools, located along the banks of the powerful Modi Khola, are built into the riverbank, providing a therapeutic experience. Relax in the hot water, surrounded by beautiful trees, and listen to the sound of the river as you unwind.

Tadapani: A Key Stopover on the Trek

On the third day of the Classic Poon Hill Round trek, before reaching Ghorepani (2,874 meters), trekkers typically spend the night in Tadapani. The village earned its name, Tadapani, meaning “far water,” because its water source once lay at a considerable distance from the settlement.

Today, Tadapani serves as a major junction for several popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region. From here, trails branch out toward Chhomrong via Chuile and Gurjung, leading onward to the Annapurna Base Camp. It also connects to the Khopra Danda–Khayer Lake Trek and the scenic Muldai View Trek, making it a strategic and well-visited rest point for many trekkers.

Hiking to Ghorepani

The fourth day’s Classic Poon Hill Round Trek to Ghorepani features wide and well-maintained trails. The local hotels and lodges offer outstanding service, and trekkers can enjoy local food such as wild mushroom soup made from mushrooms collected by locals from the forest. On the fifth day, an early morning 30-minute hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) offers one of Nepal’s most popular viewpoints. Most trekkers visit Poon Hill from Ghorepani at sunrise for spectacular views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Despite the crowds during peak trekking seasons in spring and autumn, the views are well worth the effort. A coffee stand at the top serves both hot and cold beverages.

The Winter Experience

The Classic Poon Hill Round Trek remains popular throughout the year. In winter, the Poon Hill trek offers clear views of the Annapurna Himalayan ranges, with more frequent clear skies making the scenery even more captivating. The Himalayan views reach their climax at the foothills of Classic Poon Hill, right at the beginning of the trek..

Fitness Level Required

The Classic Poon Hill Round trek trails are among the easiest in the Annapurna Region, especially compared to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek. No specific training is required, but trekkers should be physically fit and capable of walking four to five hours per day. The Poon Hill trek is ideal for first-time trekkers, an easy trail to explore the beauty of the Himalaya.

Trekking Anti-Clockwise

While most trekkers on the Classic Poon Hill Round Trek start from Nayapul and begin the hike in a clockwise direction, it is also possible to begin in an anticlockwise direction. Starting from Dhampus and hiking through Landruk, Tolka, and Ghandruk, before continuing to Tadapani, Ghorepani, and finally to Poon Hill, offers a unique perspective. This route, however, can be more challenging due to steeper ascents and longer walking hours in the initial days.

Combining with the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

For those seeking a more extended adventure, the Classic Poon Hill Round Trek can be combined with the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC via Poon Hill). This combination allows trekkers to experience both the scenic beauty of Poon Hill and the dramatic landscapes of the Annapurna Sanctuary. After reaching Ghorepani, continue to Tadapani and Chomrong before heading to ABC. The trek to ABC takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows, and offers close-up views of the towering peaks of Annapurna I and Machapuchare (Fish tail). This combined trek typically takes around 12-14 days, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Annapurna region..

Exploring the Mardi with  Classic Poon Hill Round Trek

Another excellent option is to combine the Classic Poon Hill Round Trek with the Mardi Himal Trek. The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem that takes trekkers off the beaten path to the base of Mardi Himal and the Mardi Himal Base Camp. After enjoying the sunrise at Poon Hill, continue your journey towards Landruk and Forest Camp. From here, the trail ascends through rhododendron forests and ridges, providing stunning views of the Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and the Annapurna range. This trek offers a more solitary experience, away from the crowds, and is ideal for those looking for a peaceful adventure. Merging Poon Hill and Mardi Himal typically takes around 10-12 days.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek

For those seeking an even more adventurous journey, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a perfect choice. This trek not only covers the highlights of the Classic Poon Hill Trek but takes you on a full circular route around the majestic Annapurna Massif. Starting at lower elevations, the trail gradually climbs through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to traditional villages, offering trekkers a rich cultural and natural experience.

One of the trek’s main highlights is the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, one of the highest trekking passes in the region. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek can also be combined with a visit to Poon Hill, either at the start or end of the journey. This extended adventure typically takes 18–21 days, offering an unforgettable experience for dedicated trekkers.

Highlights of the Combined Treks

Cultural Exploration

Combining these treks offers a deeper cultural experience. Trekkers will pass through various ethnic villages, including those of the Gurung, Thakali, and Magar communities. It also offers a glimpse into the unique traditions, architecture, and local hospitality. Participating in local festivals, trying traditional foods, and visiting monasteries and temples enhance the cultural richness of the trek.

Natural Beauty

The combined treks showcase the diverse natural beauty of the Annapurna region. From the lush green forests and terraced fields of the lower elevations to the alpine meadows and glacial moraines of the higher altitudes, trekkers will feel a changing landscape. The rhododendron forests, in particular, are a highlight during the spring season, when they are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the scenery.

Panoramic Views

One of the main attractions of these treks is the panoramic views of the Himalayas. Poon Hill offers a stunning sunrise view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, while the Mardi Himal Trek provides close-up views of Mardi Himal and Machapuchre. The Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks offer dramatic vistas of towering peaks, including Annapurna I, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The combination of these views creates a memorable trekking experience.

Varied Terrain

The Classic Poon Hill Round treks offer varied terrain, from gentle trails through forests and villages to challenging ascents and high passes. This variety keeps the trek interesting and provides different physical challenges. Whether it’s the steep climb to Poon Hill, the forested trails of Mardi Himal, or the high-altitude Thorong La Pass, each segment of the trek offers a unique experience.

Wildlife Encounters

The Annapurna region has diverse wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, langur monkeys, and bird species. Trekkers may also encounter rare species such as the red panda and the elusive snow leopard in higher altitudes. The conservation areas and national park regions play a crucial role in preserving the species and their habitats.

Conclusion

The Classic Poon Hill Round Trek, whether undertaken on its own or combined with the Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, or Annapurna Circuit with Base Camp treks, offers an unforgettable adventure in one of Nepal’s most beautiful regions. From cultural immersion and natural beauty to panoramic mountain views and varied terrain, these treks provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for trekkers of all levels. Whether you are a first-timer or an experienced trekker, the Annapurna region has something to offer, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure and tranquility in the Himalayas.

Why Choose This Trek?

• Perfect for beginners and families

• Rich cultural encounters with the Gurung and Magar communities

• Natural hot springs and rhododendron forests

• Unbeatable sunrise views from Poon Hill