Poon Hill Trek is one of the shortest and most popular treks to experience culture and lifestyle of the Gurung communities in the Annapurna region. The trail leads us through beautiful sub-tropical valleys, dense forests of rhododendron and icy waterfalls. We can view around every corner during the trek soaring Himalayan peaks such as Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Mt. Machapurhre (Fishtail) (6,993m), Mt. Tukuche (6,920m), Mt. Nilgiri ( 6940m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Mt. Annapurna South (7,219m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6,931m) and so many other smaller peaks.
From Poon Hill (3,210m) we can see the best vistas of sunrise and Himalayan mountain range early in the morning. Dense rhododendron forests, varieties of bird species, deep sub-tropical valleys, traditional villages, age-old tradition and culture, hospitable people, ever-smiling faces of the people, majestic mountain views are the major attractions of this trek.
Ghandruk village provides an insight into the lifestyles of Gurung ethnic community of Nepal. Here, you will see how orderly rows of neat slate- roofed houses are clustered on the canyon wall amidst a complicated network of farming terraces. In addition, you will enjoy with great views of the Himalayas that includes Macchapuchre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. Pothana is another popular village where you will also encounter same Gurung ethnic community like in the Ghandruk village. This village is situated on the ridge of the hill from where you can enjoy the spectacular view of Annapurna Himalayan range, Fishtail and green valley of Pokhara. The Summit Force can make the itinerary shorter without including Ghandruk village as per client's requirements.
Those who have longer holiday can go via Ghandruk and end the trek in Pokhara. And, those who have a short holiday and prefer to trek only up to Ghorepani and end the trek in Dhampus Phedi is also possible. We recommend Ghorepani-Poon Hill and Ghandruk trek because on this route you will enjoy the best panoramic Mountain View, experience Gurung culture, and lifestyle and make a circuit.
Trip Highlights
Spectacular Sunrise: Witness breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from Poon Hill.
Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna and Machapuchare mountains.
Cultural Encounters: Explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages, experiencing local culture and lifestyle.
Rhododendron Forests: Trek through beautiful rhododendron forests with vibrant colors (especially during the spring season).