The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) with Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal's most loved trekking combinations. It blends the stunning Himalayan scenery of the Annapurna region with the spectacular sunrise from Poon Hill, traditional Gurung villages, lush rhododendron forests, and high-altitude glacier basins.
Perfect for both first-time trekkers and experienced adventurers, this trek offers cultural immersion, moderate altitude, and incredible natural beauty. The trail gives you everything from mountain views and forest trails to cultural charm and warm hospitality.
During the trek, you will stay in locally-run teahouses. These are basic but comfortable lodges with:
The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become, but the hospitality remains welcoming throughout.
Before and after the trek, you'll stay in 3-star level hotels:
Rooms are based on twin-sharing with breakfast included, offering a relaxing stay before and after your trekking adventure.
Meals during the trek are not included in your package, so you have the flexibility to choose your own food at the teahouses.
Prices for meals vary slightly with altitude, and most trekkers spend around $25 to $35 per day.
This trek is great for first-time hikers as well as experienced trekkers:
With proper planning and a steady pace, even beginners can enjoy this trek. Guides help you understand the route, culture, and natural surroundings.
Though the Annapurna Base Camp trek reaches 4,130 meters, the risk of AMS is lower than in other high-altitude treks due to the gradual ascent.
Still, precautions are necessary:
Your guide will monitor your condition and recommend descending if needed. Carrying Diamox (with medical advice) is optional.
For first-time trekkers, it’s helpful to prepare your body 3–4 weeks in advance:
The better your fitness, the more enjoyable your experience will be. No advanced athletic level is needed, but being in good shape helps reduce fatigue and prevent injury.
To enter the Annapurna region, you need:
These permits can be arranged by your trekking agency or obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Hiring a professional guide and porter makes the journey safer and more comfortable:
They are experienced, insured, and trained in first aid and mountain safety. Your guide will handle logistics, share local knowledge, and ensure your overall well-being.
Must-have items for the trek include:
Most of these can be bought or rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
It’s important to have travel insurance that covers:
Peace Nepal Treks and other agencies will assist with rescue coordination in case of emergency. Share your policy details with your guide before the trek begins.
The trek passes through beautiful Gurung and Magar villages where you can:
These enriching experiences make your journey more meaningful beyond the mountains.
The Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill Trek is a beautiful blend of scenery, challenge, culture, and comfort. Whether you're coming for the mountain views or looking for your first Himalayan adventure, this trek delivers everything you hope for.
From the stunning sunrise at Poon Hill to the icy majesty of Annapurna Base Camp, every day is filled with inspiration. With the right preparation, team, and mindset, this trek will become one of your most memorable journeys.
Let Peace Nepal Treks help you plan the perfect Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill experience — safe, flexible, and unforgettable!
Welcome to Nepal! Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, our friendly airport representative will greet you at the arrival gate holding a sign that reads "Peace Nepal Treks" with your name on it. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu. The drive takes about 30 minutes (8 km). After check-in, take time to rest or enjoy an evening walk around the local shops and restaurants.
Accommodation: International Guest House or similar (with breakfast)
Meals: Self-paid
Begin your Himalayan journey with a scenic 6–7 hour drive (approx. 200 km) from Kathmandu to Pokhara via tourist bus. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the countryside, rivers, terraced fields, and small towns. Once in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and relax near the lakeside. Optional activities include boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the Peace Pagoda, or exploring the lakeside markets.
Accommodation: Hotel Shaara or similar
Meals: Self-paid
After breakfast, drive for about 1.5 to 2 hours (30 km) to Kimche, the trek starting point. Begin your walk through traditional villages and terraced hillsides. Pass the charming village of Chhomrong, then descend to cross a suspension bridge before climbing up steep stone steps to Sinuwa. The day is a mix of uphill and downhill, giving you a taste of trekking in the Annapurna region.
Trekking Distance: ~13–15 km
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Today’s trail takes you through dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron. The walk is peaceful and shaded, offering glimpses of distant snow peaks through the trees. You’ll pass Bamboo and Dovan, gradually climbing to Deurali, a high-altitude village surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls.
Trekking Distance: 6–7 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Climb higher today as you trek past MBC (3,700m) to reach Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m). This section offers jaw-dropping alpine views, glacier rivers, and panoramic mountain walls. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at the famous ABC bowl, surrounded by towering peaks including Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Trekking Distance: 5–6 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
After watching the sunrise over the Annapurnas, begin your descent toward Bamboo. The trail retraces your steps down through alpine meadows and forested trails. You’ll pass Deurali and Dovan again, enjoying the downhill walk and changing scenery.
Trekking Distance: 12–14 km
Trekking Time: 7 hours
Today’s trek includes a mix of uphill and downhill sections. You’ll climb back up to Sinuwa, descend to the river, and make a final climb to Chhomrong, a beautiful Gurung village with stunning views of the valley and peaks.
Trekking Distance: 6–7 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Depart Chhomrong and head north through lush rhododendron forests and hillside farms. The trail offers changing terrain, with steep climbs and relaxing flat sections. On clear days, enjoy sweeping views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Trekking Distance: 8–9 km
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Trek through dense forest and alpine vegetation, gradually ascending toward the lively village of Ghorepani. This village is a popular resting point and provides a great view of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Prepare for the next morning's sunrise hike.
Trekking Distance: 10–12 km
Trekking Time: 6 hours
Start early with a short hike to Poon Hill (30–40 mins) to catch the sunrise over the Himalayas. The panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre are unforgettable. After taking photos and enjoying the moment, descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then continue downhill to Ulleri (1,960m). From there, drive back to Pokhara and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Total Trekking Distance: 14–16 km
Trekking Time: 7–8 hours
Spend the morning exploring Pokhara's lakeside charm. Visit Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, or take a boat ride on Phewa Lake. In the afternoon, take a short 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our staff will transfer you back to your hotel.
Accommodation: International Guest House or similar (with breakfast)
Enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing around Thamel or Durbar Square. Depending on your flight time, we will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. Thank you for trekking with Peace Nepal Treks!
Meals: Self-paid
Transfer: Airport drop-off included
Guides and Porters
We cover their:
Your flight to/from Nepal and the Nepal visa fee (payable on arrival in Kathmandu):
The best times are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November). These seasons offer clear skies, great mountain views, and pleasant temperatures.
It is a moderate trek, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Daily walks range from 5 to 7 hours, with some uphill and downhill trails.
The highest point is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters (13,550 ft). Poon Hill is at 3,210 meters (10,531 ft).
4. What type of accommodation is available during the trek?
You’ll stay in local teahouses/lodges that offer twin-sharing rooms with basic bedding and shared bathrooms. In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll stay in 3-star standard hotels.
Yes. Meals are à la carte at teahouses. You can order from the menu and pay directly. Common meals include dal bhat, pasta, noodles, soups, and pancakes.
No prior experience is needed. This trek is perfect for first-time trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
You should start light cardio training, walking, hiking, or gym workouts at least 4–6 weeks before your trek. Focus on endurance and leg strength.
Yes, there is a moderate risk of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). It’s important to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and rest when needed. ABC is below 4,500m, which reduces risk compared to higher treks.
You can hire licensed guides and porters easily. They help with navigation, safety, and carrying your bag (each porter usually carries 20–25kg for two trekkers).
You need:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Essentials include:
Sleeping bag, warm clothes, waterproof layers
Trekking shoes, poles, headlamp
Water bottles and purification tablets
First aid kit, sun protection, and snacks
You’ll drive or fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then take a private vehicle to Kimche or Nayapul, the typical trek start points.
Spring: warm days, blooming flowers, cool nights
Autumn: clear skies, fresh air, mild temperature
Winter: colder, especially at night
Monsoon: wet and muddy, not recommended
Yes, many teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a small fee. Mobile signals (mostly NCell) work in many parts of the trail but can be weak in high areas.
15. Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes. Make sure it covers:
Emergency helicopter evacuation
Medical treatment
High-altitude trekking up to 4,500 meters
Here’s a list of must-have items:
Yes. You can rent or buy quality trekking gear in Thamel (Kathmandu) or Lakeside (Pokhara). Items like sleeping bags, down jackets, and poles are widely available at affordable rates.
No. Crampons or ice axes are not required for this trek unless you’re trekking in deep winter (Dec–Feb) when snow can block the trail.
The best seasons are:
Spring (March to May): Clear skies, rhododendron blooms, and pleasant temperatures.
Autumn (September to November): Best visibility, dry trails, and perfect mountain views.
Yes, but expect very cold mornings and nights (down to -15°C at ABC). The trail may be snowy, and some lodges could be closed. Proper gear is essential.
Monsoon (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, muddy/slippery trails, leeches, and poor visibility.
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers. Your insurance must include:
Your policy should cover trekking up to 4,500 meters, which is above Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).
Always carry:
Yes. Reputable trekking agencies like Peace Nepal Treks provide:
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Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill Trek© 2011 - 2025 All rights reserved. Peace Nepal Treks.
