If you have ever dreamed of standing on a hilltop while the golden sunrise paints the Himalayan peaks in shades of orange and pink, Poon Hill is exactly that place.
But before you pack your bags, you probably have one big question on your mind: “How long does the Poon Hill trek actually take?”
Here is the simple answer, a typical Poon Hill trek takes 4 to 5 days. You will cover around 60 to 65 kilometers in total, walking about 5 to 7 hours each day.
But that is just the starting point. Your actual trek duration depends on your fitness level, the route you choose, and how much time you want to spend soaking in the views.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything, day-by-day itinerary, distance, difficulty, best seasons, and practical tips so you can plan your perfect Poon Hill adventure in 2026.
What Is the Poon Hill Trek?
Poon Hill sits inside the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal’s Gandaki Province. It is one of the most loved short treks in all of South Asia, and for good reason.
The trek takes you through thick rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and mountain viewpoints that feel almost too beautiful to be real. The highlight is reaching Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 meters just before sunrise.
From that single spot, you can see some of the world’s highest mountains, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu, all lined up like a postcard that never ends.
The trek usually starts and ends near Nayapul, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Pokhara. No technical climbing skills are needed. No extreme altitude challenges. Just you, the trail, and some of the best mountain scenery on the planet.
That is why this trek is perfect for first-time trekkers, families, and anyone who wants a genuine Himalayan experience without committing to weeks on the trail.
How Long Is the Poon Hill Trek?
The standard Poon Hill trek takes 4 to 5 days. Most trekkers choose this version because it gives enough time to enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.
Here is a quick breakdown of your options:
| Trek Version | Duration | Total Distance | Daily Walk | Difficulty |
| Express Trek | 3 Days | ~45 km | 6–8 hours | Moderate–Hard |
| Standard Trek | 4–5 Days | ~60–65 km | 5–7 hours | Easy–Moderate |
| Extended Trek | 6–7 Days | ~80+ km | 4–5 hours | Easy |
From Ghorepani to Poon Hill viewpoint specifically, the walk takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour (roughly 1.5 km uphill). Most trekkers start this section at 4:30 to 5:00 AM to catch the sunrise.
So when people ask how long it takes to reach the famous viewpoint from their last overnight stop, less than an hour. But the full trek to get there and back? That is your 4 to 5 days.
Standard 4–5 Day Poon Hill Trek Itinerary
This is the most popular itinerary and the one we recommend for most trekkers. It gives you a comfortable pace, enough rest time, and plenty of moments to just stop and enjoy where you are.
Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga
Your trek officially starts with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, about 42 km that takes 1.5 to 2 hours by jeep or local bus.
From Nayapul, you begin walking. The trail follows the Modi Khola river, passing through small villages and farmland. The path is mostly flat to gently uphill on this first day, which makes it a great warm-up.
- Distance: ~12 km
- Walking time: 4–5 hours
- Ending altitude: 1,495m (Tikhedhunga)
- Overnight: Tikhedhunga teahouse
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. You will cross suspension bridges and pass through the village of Birethanti, where you need to show your trekking permits. More on permits later.
By the time you reach Tikhedhunga, your legs will be warm and your appetite will be ready for a hot Dal Bhat dinner.
Day 2: Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani
This is the most physically demanding day of the entire trek. Get ready for the famous stone staircase of Ulleri, over 3,600 stone steps climbing steeply up through the forest.
It sounds intimidating, and honestly, it is a solid workout. But the reward? You walk through stunning rhododendron forests that bloom brilliantly red and pink in spring. The views behind you keep getting bigger with every step.
After Ulleri, the trail levels out a bit as you pass through Banthanti and Nangethanti before finally arriving at Ghorepani.
- Distance: ~12 km
- Walking time: 5–6 hours
- Altitude gain: 1,495m → 2,860m
- Overnight: Ghorepani teahouse
Ghorepani is a lively little mountain village with plenty of teahouses, warm lodges, and friendly locals. Have dinner early and get to bed, tomorrow starts before sunrise.
Day 3: Ghorepani → Poon Hill Sunrise → Tadapani
Wake up around 4:30 AM. Grab a hot cup of tea and start the 45-minute uphill hike to Poon Hill viewpoint. It is dark, it is cold, and it is absolutely worth it.
As you reach the top, you will join other trekkers all waiting in quiet anticipation. Then the sky starts to change. The clouds turn purple, then pink, then gold, and slowly the massive white peaks of the Annapurna range appear out of the darkness like something from a dream.
Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre, all visible from one spot. It is one of the most breathtaking sunrise views in all of Asia.
After spending time at the top (and taking a hundred photos), head back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then pack your bags and continue the trail to Tadapani.
- Poon Hill hike: ~1.5 km | 45–60 minutes from Ghorepani
- Distance to Tadapani: ~10 km
- Walking time: 4–5 hours
- Ending altitude: 2,590m
- Overnight: Tadapani teahouse
The walk to Tadapani goes through more dense forest. On clear days, you get excellent mountain views along the way.
Day 4: Tadapani → Ghandruk → Nayapul → Pokhara
Your final trekking day brings you through Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Gurung villages in the Annapurna region.
Walking through Ghandruk feels like stepping back in time. Stone-paved streets, traditional houses, marigold flowers on the windowsills, and mountain views that frame every alleyway. Spend some time here before continuing your descent.
From Ghandruk, the trail descends steadily to Nayapul, where a jeep or bus takes you back to Pokhara.
- Distance: ~14 km
- Walking time: 5–6 hours
- Drive back to Pokhara: ~1.5–2 hours
You will likely arrive in Pokhara by late afternoon with tired legs and a heart full of memories.
Day 5 (Optional): Buffer or Leisure Day
If you are in no rush, adding a 5th day is a great idea. You can:
- Spend more time exploring Ghandruk village
- Visit the Annapurna Cultural Museum in Ghandruk
- Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with mountain views
- Rest your legs before your journey home
This optional day is especially recommended if you are traveling with older family members, young children, or if the weather is unpredictable.
3-Day Express Poon Hill Trek
Short on time? The 3-day express version is possible, but it is significantly more demanding.
Quick Itinerary:
- Day 1: Pokhara → Nayapul → Ghorepani (very long day, 7–8 hours walking)
- Day 2: Ghorepani → Poon Hill Sunrise → Tadapani
- Day 3: Tadapani → Ghandruk → Nayapul → Pokhara
This version works best for physically fit, experienced trekkers who are comfortable with long walking days. If you are a beginner or not used to hiking, the 4 to 5-day version will serve you much better.
Extended 6–7 Day Poon Hill Trek
On the other end of the spectrum, the extended version is perfect for those who want to take it slow and truly soak everything in.
Extra days allow you to:
- Add stops at Pothana and Deurali for better acclimatization
- Explore the forests around Bamboo and Dovan
- Spend an extra night in Ghandruk for a full cultural experience
- Walk at a relaxed pace without feeling pressured
This version is great for senior trekkers, families with children, beginner hikers, and anyone who just wants more time in the mountains.
Key Factors That Affect How Long Your Trek Takes
Your trek might be shorter or longer depending on a few important things. Here is what actually makes a difference:
Your Fitness Level
This is the biggest factor. If you exercise regularly, you will move faster and feel less tired at the end of each day. If you are not very active in daily life, build in extra days and walk at a pace that feels comfortable.
Weather and Season
Bad weather can slow everything down. Rain makes trails slippery. Snow at higher sections in winter can block paths. Always check the weather forecast before you start.
Your Personal Pace
Are you a fast hiker who wants to cover ground, or do you stop every 20 minutes to take photos? Neither is wrong, but your style will affect your daily walking time.
Group Size
Solo trekkers usually move faster. Larger groups naturally take longer, more people means more breaks, slower decisions, and more time at teahouse stops.
Route Variation
Some trekkers start from Hile instead of Nayapul, which adds time. Others choose a circular loop route instead of going back the way they came. Your route choice directly affects total duration.
Poon Hill Trek Altitude Profile
One thing many trekkers worry about is altitude sickness. The good news is that Poon Hill’s maximum altitude is 3,210 meters, which is well below the threshold where serious altitude sickness typically becomes a concern.
Here are the key altitude points along the standard route:
| Location | Altitude |
| Nayapul (Start) | 820m |
| Tikhedhunga | 1,495m |
| Ulleri | 1,960m |
| Ghorepani | 2,860m |
| Poon Hill (Highest Point) | 3,210m |
| Tadapani | 2,590m |
| Ghandruk | 1,940m |
You gain altitude gradually over the first two days, which helps your body adjust naturally. Headaches or mild breathlessness are possible, especially around Ghorepani and Poon Hill. Drinking plenty of water and not rushing solves most of these issues.
How Difficult Is the Poon Hill Trek?
The Poon Hill trek is rated Easy to Moderate. It does not require any technical climbing, glacier crossing, or special mountain skills.
The hardest part is the stone staircase on Day 2 between Tikhedhunga and Ulleri. Those 3,600+ steps are steep and relentless, but completely manageable if you pace yourself and take breaks.
Who is this trek suitable for?
- First-time trekkers
- Families with children aged 10 and above
- Senior travelers with reasonable fitness
- Solo travelers
- Anyone who can walk 5–7 hours with a daypack
You do not need to be an athlete. You just need to be willing to put one foot in front of the other.
Best Time to Do the Poon Hill Trek in 2026
Timing your trek right makes a huge difference in your overall experience.
Spring: March to May (Highly Recommended)
This is one of the two best seasons. The rhododendron forests explode with color, red, pink, and white blooms line the trail. Skies are mostly clear, temperatures are comfortable, and the mountain views are stunning.
Autumn: September to November (Best Overall)
This is the peak trekking season in Nepal. The monsoon has just cleared the air, giving you the crispest mountain views of the year. Weather is stable, trails are dry, and teahouses are well-stocked. This is the most popular season for good reason.
Winter: December to February (Possible but Cold)
The mountains are beautifully clear and crowds are much thinner. However, temperatures drop well below freezing at Ghorepani and Poon Hill. Snow on the trail is possible. Experienced trekkers who dress well can enjoy a magical, quiet winter trek.
Monsoon: June to August (Not Recommended)
Heavy rain, muddy trails, leeches, landslide risks, and zero mountain views make this the least ideal time to trek. Most experienced trekkers avoid this window.
Permits You Need for the Poon Hill Trek in 2026
You need two permits to trek Poon Hill legally. Both are easy to get in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
1. ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately $22–$25 USD)
- Available at: Nepal Tourism Board offices in Pokhara or Kathmandu
2. TIMS Card – Trekkers’ Information Management System
- Cost: NPR 2,000 (approximately $15–$18 USD)
- Available at: Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) offices
You will need a passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport for both permits. Keep them with you throughout the trek because there are checkpoints along the trail where officials will check them.
No special restricted area permit is needed for Poon Hill, which is another reason it is so popular and easy to access.
Accommodation and Food on the Trail
One of the best things about Poon Hill is that it is a full teahouse trek. You do not need to carry a tent or camping equipment. Comfortable guesthouses and lodges are available in every major village along the route.
What to expect from teahouses:
- Simple but clean rooms with beds and blankets
- Shared bathrooms in most places (some have attached bathrooms)
- Hot meals, tea, coffee, and snacks available all day
- Wi-Fi available in most teahouses (sometimes slow)
- Phone and camera charging facilities
Food on the trail:
Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice and vegetables) is the staple meal and the best value. It is filling, nutritious, and usually comes with unlimited refills. You will also find pasta, noodles, soups, fried rice, pancakes, and Tibetan bread.
Cost estimate per day (2026):
- Accommodation: $5–$15 USD per night
- Meals: $15–$25 USD per day
- Total daily budget: $20–$40 USD (budget to mid-range)
What to Pack for the Poon Hill Trek
You do not need heavy gear for this trek, but a few key items make a big difference.
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Warm fleece or down jacket (for Ghorepani and Poon Hill mornings)
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Warm hat and gloves
Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support
- Comfortable camp sandals for evenings
Gear:
- Trekking poles (especially helpful on the Ulleri staircase descent)
- Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for the Poon Hill sunrise hike)
- 2–3 liter water bottles or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or a filter
Other Essentials:
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and UV-protection sunglasses
- Basic first aid kit, blister plasters, pain relief, altitude medication
- Offline maps downloaded (Maps.me or Gaia GPS work great)
- Snacks, energy bars, nuts, chocolate for the trail
Keep your pack light. Aim for under 8–10 kg and you will thank yourself on Day 2’s staircase climb.
Final Thoughts
The Poon Hill trek is not the longest or the highest trek in Nepal. But it might just be the most rewarding one for the time it takes.
In just 4 to 5 days, you get rhododendron forests, traditional Himalayan villages, warm teahouse evenings, and a sunrise that people genuinely fly across the world to experience. It is the kind of trek that stays with you long after your boots are back in the closet.
Whether you choose the 3-day express, the classic 4 to 5-day route, or the relaxed 7-day version, Poon Hill delivers every single time.
So lace up your boots, get your permits sorted, and start planning your 2026 Poon Hill adventure. The mountains are waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days is the Poon Hill trek?
The standard Poon Hill trek takes 4 to 5 days. A faster 3-day version exists for experienced trekkers, and a more leisurely 6 to 7-day version suits beginners and those who want more time in the mountains.
How long does it take to hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill?
It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to hike from Ghorepani to the Poon Hill viewpoint. The distance is approximately 1.5 km uphill. Most trekkers start this hike around 4:30 to 5:00 AM to reach the top before sunrise.
Is the Poon Hill trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, absolutely. The 4 to 5-day standard itinerary is very beginner-friendly. As long as you are reasonably fit and comfortable walking for 5 to 6 hours a day, you can do this trek without prior trekking experience.
Can I do the Poon Hill trek without a guide?
Yes. Poon Hill is a well-marked trail and one of the most popular self-guided treks in Nepal. Signboards are frequent, teahouses are plentiful, and the route is easy to follow. That said, hiring a local guide enriches the experience and supports the local economy.
What is the highest point of the Poon Hill trek?
The highest point is the Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 meters above sea level.
How far is Poon Hill from Pokhara?
The drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (the trek starting point) is about 42 km and takes 1.5 to 2 hours. From there, the trek to Poon Hill takes 2 full trekking days.