Scenic Poon Hill Adventure

The day starts before dawn, around 4:30 AM, with a hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3,210 m). Using headlamps, you ascend the stone steps in the cool morning air. The climb takes approximately 45–60 minutes and is suitable for all ages. At the top, watch the Himalayan sunrise transform the sky from deep indigo to fiery orange. A small tea shop at the summit offers hot drinks, perfect for warming up while taking in the panoramic views.

From 6:45 to 7:15 AM, enjoy the full sunrise panorama: Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) to the west, Annapurna South (7,219 m) ahead, and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993 m) peak nearby. The actual summit of Annapurna I (8,091 m) can also be seen behind Annapurna South. This is one of the highest and most breathtaking viewpoints in the region.

After breakfast in Ghorepani, the trek continues east toward Tadapani around 8:00 AM. The trail ascends gently to Deurali Pass (3,090 m), offering mountain views almost as spectacular as Poon Hill but with fewer trekkers. Along the way, you pass through mossy rhododendron forests and narrow ridges with deep gorges on both sides. Banthanti provides a scenic lunch spot beside hidden waterfalls.

The afternoon, from 1:30 PM, involves descending through dense jungle over wooden bridges and steep forest trails. Trekking poles are recommended for comfort. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including playful langur monkeys and the colorful Danphe, Nepal’s national bird.

By 4:30 PM, you arrive in Tadapani (2,630 m), a village perched on a ridge. From your teahouse porch, the views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South are exceptional, especially as the setting sun casts purple and pink hues over the peaks. This peaceful ridge village is a perfect place to rest and reflect on the day’s trek.

Walking Distance: 13.5 km / 8.4 miles

Trekking Duration: 7–9 hours (including sunrise hike)

Maximum Altitude: 3,210 m

The final day begins around 8:00 AM with breakfast in Tadapani (2,630 m), as the morning sun illuminates Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. By 8:30 AM, the trek resumes with a gentle descent through mossy rhododendron and oak forests. The shaded trail is perfect for birdwatching and spotting playful langur monkeys in the canopy.

A short break at 10:10 AM in Bhaisi Kharka, a small meadow used by local buffalo herders, gives a view over the terraced farmlands of the Modi Khola valley. By 10:30 AM, the trail reaches Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. Here, you visit a 200-year-old traditional house turned museum, exploring ancient tools and weapons and trying on traditional Tamu costumes for a memorable photo. Lunch follows at a local teahouse overlooking the valley, with the chance to enjoy authentic Dal Bhat and a close-up view of Hiunchuli.

In the afternoon, around 1:30 PM, the descent continues toward Shyauli Bazar via steep stone staircases and terraced fields where locals grow millet, wheat, and mustard. By 3:30 PM, the trail meets the glacial Modi Khola river, which guides you to the roadhead. The trek officially ends at 4:00 PM in Shyauli Bazar, where a private 4WD vehicle awaits for the return drive to Pokhara. The scenic route passes through Kimche and Nayapul, and at 5:30 PM, you pass the Birethanti checkpoint to exit the Annapurna Conservation Area. Arrival in Pokhara is expected around 7:00 PM, concluding your 3-day adventure with a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake.

Walking Distance: ~10 km / 6.2 miles

Walking Duration: 4–5 hours

Maximum Altitude: 2,630 m