The Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most iconic short treks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Known for its stunning sunrise vistas, rich cultural experiences, and lush rhododendron forests, Poon Hill is perfect for trekkers seeking a rewarding Himalayan adventure in a compact itinerary.
April is a prime month for trekking Poon Hill. The trail is vibrant with spring flowers, skies are mostly clear, and the weather is ideal for photography and hiking.
Here’s a complete guide for foreign travelers planning their Poon Hill Trek in April.
Quick Snapshot of Poon Hill Trek
|
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Starting Point |
Nayapul or Tikhedhunga |
|
Ending Point |
Nayapul or Pokhara |
|
Highest Point |
Poon Hill (3,210m) |
|
Duration |
4-6 days |
|
Difficulty |
Easy to Moderate |
|
Accommodation |
Teahouses / Lodges |
|
Permits Required |
ACAP & TIMS Card |
|
Best Month |
April (Spring Season) |
Why April is the Perfect Time
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Clear Skies for Sunrise: The early morning sun illuminates Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other peaks - ideal for photography.
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Spring Bloom: Rhododendron forests and flowering shrubs are at their most vibrant along the trail.
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Pleasant Temperatures: Mild weather ensures comfortable trekking, not too hot or too cold.
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Moderate Crowds: Popular but manageable - you’ll have a lively trekking environment without overcrowding.
Trail Overview
The Poon Hill Trek offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion. It typically follows this route:
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Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Birethati & then hiking to Ulleri Village (1540m)
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Day 02: Trek from Ulleri Village to Ghorepani (2860 m)
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Day 03: Hike to Poon Hill & Trek to Tadapani (2721 m)
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Day 04: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk & then Drive to Pokhara
Tip: For a shorter trek, a 3-day itinerary focusing on Ghorepani and Poon Hill is also very popular.
Permits Required for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
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Cost: NPR 3,000 (~USD 25)
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Issued in Pokhara or at the trailhead
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Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
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Cost: NPR 2,000 (~USD 15-20)
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Can be obtained through registered trekking agencies
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Weather & Climate in April
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Low Altitude (Nayapul, Tikhedhunga): 15°C - 25°C
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Mid Altitude (Ghorepani, Tadapani): 8°C - 20°C
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High Altitude (Poon Hill): 0°C - 12°C
Notes:
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Mornings can be chilly, especially at Poon Hill summit.
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Afternoon temperatures are mild; light layers work best.
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Occasional spring showers may occur - pack a light rain jacket.
Packing Essentials for Poon Hill Trek
Clothing:
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Moisture-wicking T-shirts
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Trekking trousers & shorts for lower altitudes
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Fleece or warm jacket for mornings/nights
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Waterproof jacket & pants
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Warm gloves, hat, and scarf
Footwear:
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Sturdy trekking boots
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Sandals for teahouse evenings
Gear:
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Daypack (20-30L)
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Trekking poles
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Headlamp with extra batteries
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Water bottles / hydration system
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Camera for sunrise photography
Other Essentials:
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Sunscreen & lip balm
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Personal medications & first-aid kit
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Passport & permit copies
Accommodation & Meals
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Teahouses: Twin-sharing rooms, basic but comfortable bedding
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Bathrooms: Shared; hot showers available for a small fee
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Meals: Dal Bhat (rice & lentils), noodles, soups, momo, pancakes, tea/coffee
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Tip: Vegetarian options are widely available and easy to digest
Flora, Fauna & Culture
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Flora: Rhododendron forests, oak, pine, and maple trees in spring bloom
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Fauna: Himalayan birds, monkeys, occasional langurs
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Culture: The trek passes through Gurung villages - experience local lifestyle, architecture, and traditions
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Highlight: Visit Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village with museums, handicrafts, and cultural displays
Why Poon Hill Trek is Perfect for April
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Short duration, suitable for first-time trekkers
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Panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
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Cultural immersion in Gurung villages
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Rhododendron forests in full bloom
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Easy accessibility from Pokhara
Tips for a Successful Trek
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Start early for the sunrise at Poon Hill
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Stay hydrated - carry water and snacks
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Use trekking poles for stability on steep ascents/descents
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Respect local culture and traditions
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Carry some cash; ATMs are only in Pokhara
Conclusion - Experience the Magic of Poon Hill in April
The Poon Hill Trek in April combines stunning Himalayan landscapes, spring blooms, sunrise panoramas, and cultural immersion in just a few days. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a nature photographer, Poon Hill offers an unforgettable adventure.
Start planning your trek today and make memories that last a lifetime!
Contact Best Heritage Tour
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 10th November, 2025
