12Days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Poon Hill - 12 Days

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Trip Facts
Duration
12 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4130M
Group Size
16
Starts
Kathamandu
Ends
Kathamandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
March to May and September to December

The Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill takes you to the two most beautiful trekking destinations in Nepal. Annapurna Base Camp is the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna, and Poon Hill is a famous viewpoint above Ghorepani village.

Both these places are highly praised by the trekkers for their beauty and adventure. This combined trek is 12 days long and goes through the lush forests of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Annapurna is located in the western Himalayan range in Nepal. Known as the killer mountain, the journey to its base camp will leave you in awe.

While trekking, you will see stunning sunrises and sunsets, along with breathtaking mountain views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Annapurna Range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m/22,703 ft), etc.

Besides the beautiful scenery, the traditional Nepali villages and welcoming Nepali communities are another main highlight of Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill 12 days. Trekking through different altitudes, travelers will reach a maximum elevation of 4,130 meters (7,578 ft).

Compared to other frequently done treks in Nepal, the gain of 4,130 meters in elevation is quite low. Trekkers who are looking for an adventurous, life-changing journey in the Himalayas without going above 4,500 meters should do the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill.

Highlights

  • Trek to the two most beautiful trekking destinations in Nepal: Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill
  • Follow an adventurous trail within the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to several flora and fauna
  • Spend nights in traditional Nepali Gurung and Magar villages
  • Explore the famous Ghorepani village and hike to Poon Hill to witness a marvelous sunrise and breathtaking mountain panorama
  • Tre through dense forests of rhododendrons and bamboo and cross several suspension bridges on the way to ABC
  • Trek past Hinku Cave and explore the wilderness of Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Witness varied landscapes and jaw-dropping mountain vistas throughout the trek
  • Spend a night at the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna Base Camp
  • Enjoy natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda at the end of the trek
  • Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, two popular tourist cities in Nepal

Why should you do the ABC trek via Poon Hill?

The ABC trek via Poon Hill combines two great treks. Therefore, the adventure, experience, and views are double. You will traverse one of the oldest trekking routes in Nepal that promises an unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.

From the lushness of the lower Annapurna region to the barren alpine environment of the upper region, the trek will present varied landscapes.

Marvelous sunrise and sunset from Poon Hill

Poon Hill is a paradise for beginner trekkers who want to see stunning mountain vistas on a short, low-altitude trek. Located 3,210 meters (10,525 ft) above sea level, hiking to Poon Hill is not that challenging yet adventurous. So, all ages of trekkers love it.

From Poon Hill, you can see 20+ mountains along with a marvelous sunrise and sunset. From Ghorepani village, you can reach Poon Hill in less than two hours of walking through rhododendron forested hill.

Authentic Gurung and Magar villages

During the trek, you will pass by many villages, such as Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, etc. These villages are mainly home to the Gurung and Magar tribes of Nepal.

The villages are lovely, and the villagers are welcoming. Houses are mostly painted blue, white, or brick red and surrounded by rhododendron forests, lush hills, and snow-capped mountains.

It makes villages like something out of a picture book. Likewise, the locals are friendly and kind. You will share many stories and conversations with them. Do not hesitate to talk to them.

Rich flora and fauna of the Annapurna Conservation Area

From Nayapul to Annapurna Base Camp, you will traverse different elevations and climatic zones, discovering diverse vegetation and ecosystems. The trail runs within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna.

In the first few days of the trek, you will mainly walk through rhododendron forests. As the elevation rises, pine and fir forests begin and gradually enter bamboo forests. Wild animals are not spotted on the Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill trek route, but you may see many birds, butterflies, and insects.

Once you enter Annapurna Sanctuary (above Deurali village), which is a high glacial valley, the vegetation changes entirely, and you will be left with a ring of mountains and glaciers all around you.

The Hinku Cave and Annapurna Sanctuary

The Hinku Cave is a famous landmark on the way to Annapurna Base Camp. It comes right before Deurali village. Hinku Cave is a huge rock wall, which adds more depth to the scenery and the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill adventure.

For the locals, the cave is holy. You can take a break here and explore it a bit. It will be a love stop. Likewise, Annapurna Sanctuary sits above 4,000 meters and is surrounded by high mountains. Because of that, the valley only receives seven hours of daylight, even during the peak summer season.

The iconic Annapurna Base Camp

Reaching the base of the tenth-highest mountain in the world is a huge achievement. And the journey to the base camp is even more incredible. You will walk 6 hours a day at minimum for several days to make it here, which makes your time at the base camp even more special.

Unlike the Everest Base Camp, trekkers can spend the night at Annapurna Base Camp. It makes ABC even more impressive. There are a few tea houses off the glacier where you will spend the night and have food. 

The natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda

Towards the end of the trek, you will reach Jhinu Danda (1,780 m/6,393 ft). It is the last settlement, where you will spend the night before driving back to Pokhara.

Jhinu Danda is known for its natural hot springs. Trekkers love to enjoy it at the end of their treks to relieve their sore muscles and unwind. Locals charge a few bucks to maintain the springs. 

Elevation gain and altitude sickness during the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill

On the first day of the trek, you will hike from Nayapul (1,070 m) to Ulleri village, located at 1,960 m above sea level. The total gain in elevation is almost 900 meters.

Gaining more than 500 meters elevation in a day increases the risk of altitude sickness, so you have to be careful. While trekking, maintain your pace and do not rush.

Upon reaching Ulleri (1,960 m/5,430 ft), get ample rest, drink plenty of water, and have warm soups and teas. This will help you acclimate and avoid altitude sickness.

Likewise, from Ulleri, you will ascend around 890 meters to reach Ghorepani village (2,860 m/9,385 ft). It is another major ascent, but avoiding altitude sickness is not a big deal if you follow the same preventive measures.

On the third day of the trek, hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,525 ft) and return to Tadapani (2,630 m/8,628 ft) village to spend the night. From here, the trail gradually continues to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/7,578 ft) through Sinuwa (2,310 m/7,578 ft) and Deurali (3,175 m/7,578 ft).

After exploring ABC, you will descend to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m/6,393 ft) via the Bmaboo settlement. The trek ends in Jhinu Danda. From here, you will drive back to Kathmandu via Pokhara.

Below are the symptoms of altitude sickness. If you see them, inform your guide and get first aid.

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of appetite

Things you can do to prepare for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill

  • Fitness assessment: First, assess your fitness and see if you can make it to Annapurna Base Camp or not. Consider 6 hours of daily minimum hiking, rugged terrain, and high altitude. You have to truly answer yourself whether you are physically capable of handling these challenges or not. It will help you set the right workout plan and duration to enhance your fitness for the trek.
  • Workout plan: Follow a consistent workout plan that strengthens your core and improves your stamina and endurance. Weight training and cardiovascular exercises are recommended. Along with that, incorporate 2 to 3 long walking sessions during the week.
  • Duration: Give yourself at least 4 to 6 weeks to improve your fitness and be consistent with exercise. You have to move your body actively to get better. Book your trek early, which will give you the motivation to improve your physical condition before hitting the trail.
  • Make yourself mentally strong for the journey: The Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill is not only physically demanding but also mentally taxing. It is not easy to constantly ascend and descend, deal with high altitude, and adjust to limited services. You have to be mentally able to endure the limitations and push yourself to complete the trek. Research the trekking region, see related videos, and set the right expectations. Likewise, practice long breathing and understand that it is an adventure trek and that adventure is meant to make you uncomfortable.

Combine Mardi Himal or Khopra Danda excursion to your Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill itinerary

Mardi Himal and Khopra Danda are two other very famous trekking destinations in the Annapurna region. Not only that, but these destinations are not crowded, so they are ideal for those who want to enjoy a very peaceful trek.

You can combine both Mardi Himal and Khopra Danda treks in your Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill itinerary or just one destination. Likewise, instead of the ABC trek with Poon Hill, you can also do the ABC trek with Mardi Himal or the ABC trek with Khopra Danda.

We have many such options. Please talk to us if you want to curate your Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Why trek with the Base Camp Trip?

Base Camp Trip is the pioneer in Nepal's trekking, tour, and climbing industry. Our several years of expertise make us a reliable Nepali trekking company for any trek in the Himalayas. We are a team of passionate travelers working relentlessly to provide safe and adventurous tips to foreigners.

Our packages are designed to provide the best service to foreign trekkers. We have a genuine Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill cost and a tested itinerary that guarantees success. Our booking and cancellation policies are also simple and straightforward. There are no hidden rules or charges.

You can book the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill for 2025 and 2026 anytime. We cater to solo travelers, students, families, groups, and couples.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Poon Hill - 12 Days Itinerary

We provide complimentary airport pickup, so you do not have to worry about finding a taxi and getting to the hotel. Our team will be there to assist you with the luggage and escort you in a private vehicle.

After a quick check-in at your hotel, you will have a few hours to rest and unpack. Later, meet us for a trekking briefing and last-minute shopping. End the day packing your duffel bags and exploring the bustling streets of Thamel.

We will have an early breakfast and leave our hotel for Pokhara. It will be a lovely ride alongside the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers and lush green hills. The highway is pitched, so the ride will be quite comfortable, and beautiful views will come to our company.

Upon reaching Pokhara, we will check in at the hotel and spend the remaining day resting and exploring around Phewa Lake. The sunset at Phewa Lake is a must. From here, we can see a wonderful view of Mt. Machhapuchhare.

Start the day with a delicious breakfast and drive to Nayapul. We will start trekking from here. The trail goes through lush hills and small villages like Birethanti and Tikhedhunga. On the way, we will cross a few suspension bridges. From Tikhedhunga, we will climb several stone staircases to reach Ulleri.

It gradually ascends from Ulleri to Ghorepani village through lush rhododendron forests. While trekking, we can see beautiful views of mountains like Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhare, etc.

This part of the trail is extremely pretty in the spring season because of rhododendron blooms throughout the area. Ghorepani village will welcome you with heart-warming hospitality and a jaw-dropping mountain panorama.

We will start this day early with an exciting hike to Poon Hill viewpoint. The hiking route follows captivating rhododendron hills and ascends to Poon Hill. From the top, we will see a mesmerizing sunrise and 20+ mountains. The view will be incredible.

After that, we will return to Ghorepani village and have breakfast. Later, we will descend to Tadapani village to spend the night. The trail goes through lush forests.

From today, we will hike toward the Annapurna Base Camp. From Tadapani, the trail goes through Chuile village and takes us to Chhomrong. From here, we will descend to Chomrong Khola and continue trekking, crossing a suspension bridge. Enjoy the striking views of Annapurna South and Fishtail, we will reach Sinuwa.

From Sinuwa to Deurali, we will trek through dense forests of pine, rhododendron, and bamboo. On the way, we will pass Khuldighar village and the Bamboo settlement.

From here, the trail ascends to the Himalaya and continues along the Modi Khola Glacier valley. We will pass by Hinku Cave just before reaching Deurali village.

From Deurali onwards, we trek inside the Annapurna Sanctuary, so the vegetation changes a bit. Following a steep, rocky track, we will ascend to Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

The mountain views are stunning along the way. Further, the trail steeply ascends to Annapurna Base Camp. At ABC, giant mountains will surround us. We will spend the night at the base camp.

We will wake up early to see a gorgeous sunrise and mountain panorama. After that, we will have a big breakfast and start descending from the base camp to the Bamboo settlement.

We will follow the same trail back. The trail descends and passes by Deurali and Hinku Cave. We will then trek past Himalaya and walk through dense forests to Bamboo.

Today is the last day of the trek. From Bamboo, we will trek down to Kimrong Khola and walk through dense forests to Jhinu Danda. Before leaving Jhinu Danda, we can enjoy the natural hot springs here for an hour.

After that, we will drive back to Pokhara. It will be a short, scenic drive. Spend the rest of the day as you wish. It is a great time to buy souvenirs because you will leave for Kathmandu the next day.

We will drive back to Kathmandu following the same route, so the ride will be comfortable and scenic. Upon reaching Kathmandu, the guide will drop us off at the hotel and help us check in. The remaining day is free. Explore Thamel and window shop in the evening.

We will drop you off at the international airport for your return flight on time. Please be ready to check out of your hotel on time.

Trip Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pick-ups and drop-offs by private four-wheeler.
  • Overnight stay in the 3-star hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Twin-sharing, basic lodge accommodation during trekking.
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, seasonal fruits, and a cup of tea or coffee during the trek each day.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and TIMS Card. 
  • Base Camp Trip's complimentary duffel bag, trekking pole, map, first-aid kit, pulse oximeter, and satellite phone.
  • Licensed Nepali guide and porter (one porter for two trekkers).
  • Accommodation, food, allowance, and high altitude insurance for the guide and porter.
  • Trip achievement certificate.
  • All government taxes and service charges.

Excludes

  • International flight to/from Kathmandu.
  • Travel insurance (must cover helicopter evacuation and medical bills).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Trekking clothes and gear.
  • Shopping and souvenirs.
  • Tips for driver, guide, and porter.
  • Bar bills, water bottles, and other beverages.
  • Nepal travel visa fee.
  • Any expenses not mentioned in our cost include section.

Essential Information

Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill permit

The Ghorepani Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp trail are inside the Annapurna region, which is protected under Annapurna Conservation Area Project. Therefore, trekkers have to get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.

Along with that, you will also need a TIMS Card. Our Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill package includes both permit fees.

Transportation during the trek

The trek starts and ends in Kathmandu. We travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara in a comfortable tourist bus.

Likewise, we use a local jeep or bus to drive to Nayapul, the starting point of the trek, and to drive from Jhinu Danda (the ending point of the trek) to Pokhara.

Local transportation is good enough because the ride is short (1.5 to 2 hours). If the group is big, we may opt for a private vehicle.

Best time to trek to ABC and Poon Hill

The best time to trek to Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp is when the weather is stable and the climate is mild. March to May (pre-monsoon/spring )and late September to November (post-monsoon/autumn) have these weather patterns, which makes these months top trekking months.

You will enjoy the best mountain views while trekking during these seasons because of the excellent visibility and fewer clouds. Likewise, December to February (winter) is also a great time to do Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill, but note that the climate is very cold, so you need to wear proper winter gear.

Trekking in summer/monsoon (June to August) is the toughest because of rainfall. However, if you are into biodiversity and like rain, you will enjoy trekking in summer/monsoon.

Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill trek difficulty

Trekking to Poon Hill viewpoint and Annapurna Base Camp is not very challenging. The trail gradually ascends, following rugged hillsides, small villages, and lush forests.

The terrain is not flat. You will constantly walk up and downhill, so good fitness is necessary. The average daily walking hours are 6 to 7, covering 9 to 11 kilometers.

You can use trekking poles for knee support and balance. If you are not physically active, we suggest you train your knees. For that, you can walk, hike, or do aerobic activities.

You can do the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill as a beginner trekker. However, make sure that you understand that it is an adventure trek, so the journey will not be easygoing.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is a must for multi-day adventure treks like Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp. It ensures your safety during emergencies while trekking and provides quick rescue if needed. Your travel insurance should cover medical bills and helicopter evacuation.

Accommodation and food

During the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill, you will stay overnight in the lodges. Accommodation is simple but comfortable and cozy. Sharing rooms and washrooms are common on this trek route.

In some villages, you may get single rooms and private washrooms, but you have to adjust a lot. Services like charging and hot showers are available in many villages but cost a few extra bucks.

Likewise, we will also have meals in the lodges. The food options range from thukpa, thenduk, dal bhat, fried rice, momo, paratha, noodles, porridge, stew, and soup to pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and French fries.

Guide and porter

You will trek with a professional, experienced mountain guide and be supported by one of our strong local porters. You will meet the guide in Kathmandu, and he will travel with you throughout the journey.

Likewise, the porter will join you in Nayapul, the starting point of the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill. Trekking with a guide and porter makes the trek safe and hassle-free.

They will make sure you are getting the best rooms and services in the lodge. Similarly, they will also share interesting facts and stories about the region and the locals. You will not be bored and enjoy the trek to the fullest.

Our mountain guides are also trained in remote survival, first aid, rock climbing, and other skills. Their extensive training and many years of expertise make them reliable trekking partners.

Tips for guide and porter

Tipping is a well-practiced culture in Nepal's travel industry. You are expected to tip guides, porters, and drivers. There is no fixed tipping amount. You can tip as much as you wish.

If you are happy with your guide and porter service, tip them to show your gratitude. A 15% to 25% of the package cost is a decent tip. Likewise, NPR 200 to 1000 is a good tip for drivers, depending on the distance.

Luggage limit

You will need two luggage during the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill 12 days. The first luggage will be a duffel bag. It will be your main luggage and will be carried by porters. Each trekker has a 9 kg weight limit for a duffel bag.

Likewise, a daypack will be the secondary luggage. You will carry a daypack. Pack your money, documents, snacks, water bottles, and other essentials in your daypack.

Nepali travel visa requirements

Foreigners must obtain a Nepali travel visa to trek in Nepal. Unlike most countries, getting a Nepali travel visa is easy and quick. You can request a travel visa at your country's Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office.

Travelers from many countries can also get a travel visa upon arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or a land border. You can check your country's visa eligibility and other details here.

Packing list for Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill

Follow the below packing list for the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill:

  • Sleeping bag with liner (highly recommended)
  • Duffel bag
  • Daypack
  • Breathable undergarments, liner socks, fuzzy socks, touch-screen compatible liner glover, thermal gloves, scarf, two beanies
  • Trekking t-shirts and pants, thermal layer, fleece layer, down jacket, windproof/waterproof jacket and pant
  • One pair of trekking boots and casual shoes/crocs to wear in the teahouse
  • Trekking poles
  • First aid kit, any medication you need to eat daily, SPF, lip balm, wet wipes, toilet paper, moisturizer, body lotion, small mirror, comb, hand sanitizer, handwash, deodorant, shampoo, and other toiletries
  • UV Sunglasses, water bottles, water purification tablets, camera, Universal adapter, power bank, spare batteries, charger
  • Passport with at least six months of validity, Nepal travel visa, travel insurance documents, passport-size photos, emergency contact, cash, debit/credit card
  • Snacks, journal and pen, books, your choice of travelers games

Annapurna Base Camp Trek With Poon Hill - 12 Days FAQs

The Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill difficulty is moderate, but your fitness may make the trek doable or a bit challenging. On this trek, you will trek 5 to 7 hours a day on average through rugged hills, lush forests, and high altitudes.

Spring and autumn is the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill. If you want to avoid crowds, trek in the winter season.

Even though the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill combines two famous trekking destinations of the Annapurna region, the journey is only 12 days long, including travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

You will trek around 90 kilometers (56 miles) during the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill.

Our Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill package includes a guide and porter. You can trek confidently and safely with a guide. Likewise, the porter will carry duffel bags for you, making the trek less challenging.

The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill ranges from USD 850 to USD 1,250 per person.

Ascend slowly, drink plenty of water, have an acclimatization hike in your itinerary, and do not rush. If you see symptoms of altitude sickness, have medicine or descend to a lower altitude as required.

WiFi is available in some villages at lower elevations. You may have to pay USD 2 to USD 5 for WiFi. Likewise, the mobile network is not good. Many parts of the trail do not have any network.

Yes, lodges have a charging service, but it may cost USD 1 to USD 2 per device. For the Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill trek, we highly recommend a power bank and even a solar charger.

Yes, Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill combined trek is suitable for beginner trekkers. However, they must have decent fitness and good health.

You will come across different temperatures during trekking. From Poon Hill to Annapurna Base Camp, the temperature varies a lot. Mornings and nights are cold, and the daytime is warmer. At ABC, the temperature drops below freezing point at night.

Solo female and male trekkers can do the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill without any worries with us. You can do a private trek or a group trek as they wish. A private trek is better for those who do not want to trek with other trekkers.

The Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp are both popular trekking destinations. So, hundreds of trekkers hike to these places every year.

The trail remains busy in peak season, but does it affect others' trekking experience? It depends on what you like. Peak trekking time may not be the best choice if you are looking for peaceful trails.

No, you will not see wildlife during the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill. However, you may come across mules and birds.

Passionate adventurers, experienced and certified guides, and travel specialists. From seamless logistical support to immediate emergency assistance and a safe journey, book confidently knowing you are in safe hands! Base Camp Trip offers you truly exceptional and memorable trips.
Ashok Adhikari
Ashok Adhikari
+977 9843035522
Sri Hartaulina
Sri Hartaulina
+62 812 21582156
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