Nepal’s trekking scene is legendary for its dramatic mountain landscapes, rich culture, and well-marked trails. Among the most popular treks for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike is the Poon Hill Trek, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. November, in particular, is considered one of the best months for this trek due to clear skies, moderate weather, and perfect visibility for sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas.
Planning a Poon Hill Trek in November requires understanding the terrain, best travel practices, permit requirements, and preparation for high-altitude trekking. This guide by Best Heritage Tour, a trusted trekking agency in Nepal, will walk you through everything you need to know for a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable adventure.
Why Poon Hill Trek in November Is Special?
The Poon Hill Trek, located in the Ghandruk and Ghorepani regions of the Annapurna Conservation Area, is famous for its breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. November is part of the post-monsoon season, which is ideal for trekking because:
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Clear Skies: Rain clouds from the monsoon dissipate, offering unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks.
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Pleasant Temperatures: Daytime temperatures are comfortable for hiking, usually ranging from 15°C to 20°C at lower altitudes. Nights are chilly but manageable with proper gear.
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Stable Weather: Compared to winter months, November experiences less snow, making trails safer.
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Vibrant Landscapes: Autumn colors enrich forests, rhododendron blooms are still visible, and the terraced farmlands are at their golden peak.
Trekkers choosing November can expect not only visual splendor but also a more festive and lively trekking environment, as this is peak trekking season in Nepal.
Poon Hill Trek Overview
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Duration: 4-6 days (depending on pace and side trips)
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Distance: Approximately 32-40 km round trip
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Highest Point: Poon Hill, 3,210 meters
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Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate, suitable for beginners and families with a reasonable fitness level
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Best Season: September-November and March-April
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Starting Point: Nayapul or Pokhara
Unlike high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp, the Poon Hill Trek is manageable for those with limited time, yet it offers the quintessential Himalayan trekking experience.
Getting to Poon Hill Trek Starting Point
The trek typically begins at Nayapul, around 1.5-2 hours from Pokhara by road. Pokhara itself is well-connected to Kathmandu by air and road:
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From Kathmandu:
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Domestic flight to Pokhara: ~25 minutes
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Tourist bus: 6-8 hours
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From Pokhara to Nayapul:
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Taxi or local bus: 1-1.5 hours
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Roads are mostly paved and safe
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For travelers planning in November, it’s advisable to book flights and accommodations early as this is peak season and spots can fill up quickly.
Detailed Itinerary for Poon Hill Trek
Here’s a sample 4-day itinerary for trekking Poon Hill in November:
Day 1: Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Tikhedhunga / Ulleri
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Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1.5-2 hours)
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Trek through lush villages and forests along the Modi River
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Overnight stay in Tikhedhunga or Ulleri, depending on pace
Highlights:
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Traditional Gurung villages
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Terraced fields and river views
Day 2: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani
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Distance: 12 km approximately
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Duration: 5-6 hours
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Climb over 3,200 stone steps from Ulleri to Ghorepani
Highlights:
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Rhododendron forests
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Sunset views over the Annapurna range from Ghorepani
Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani
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Early morning hike (30-45 minutes) to Poon Hill, 3,210m
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Spectacular sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare
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Trek down to Tadapani for overnight stay
Tips:
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Carry a warm jacket, hat, and gloves for pre-dawn temperatures
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Camera ready for breathtaking shots
Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk and drive to Pokhra
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Trek duration: 4-5 hours
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Walk through terraced fields, small villages, and forests
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Return to Pokhara for relaxation or onward travel
Highlights:
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Cultural immersion with local Gurung lifestyle
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Stunning mountain panoramas along the trail
Why November Is Ideal?
Trekking in November specifically offers:
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Clear skies for the iconic Himalayan sunrise at Poon Hill
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Lower chance of rain, making trails safer and more enjoyable
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Peak trekking season, which is perfect for meeting fellow travelers while avoiding mid-winter extreme cold
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Festive atmosphere, as local festivals like Tihar may coincide depending on dates
Permits and Regulations
Trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area requires proper permits to preserve the environment and support local communities.
1. ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project)
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Required for all trekkers entering Annapurna Conservation Area
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Cost: Approx. USD 30 per foreign trekker
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Benefits: Trail maintenance, conservation, local community support
2. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
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Tracks trekkers for safety and emergency management
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Cost: USD 20
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Can be issued in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or via registered trekking agencies
Best Heritage Tour can arrange both permits seamlessly, saving trekkers time and ensuring compliance with all regulations.
Accommodation and Food
Accommodation along the Poon Hill Trek is mostly in tea houses and lodges offering basic but comfortable facilities. November will see high tourist inflow, so early booking is recommended.
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Tea Houses: Simple rooms with beds and blankets
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Meals: Nepali dal-bhat, noodles, soups, and local dishes
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Cost: Rooms: USD 5-15 per night, Meals: USD 5–10 per meal
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Tip: Carry snacks, water purification tablets, and personal hygiene items
Packing List for November Trek
For a successful Poon Hill Trek in November, packing correctly is essential.
Clothing:
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Warm jacket, fleece, base layers
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Waterproof trekking pants and jackets
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Gloves, hat, scarf
Footwear:
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Sturdy trekking boots
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Extra socks
Other Essentials:
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Trekking poles
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
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Headlamp or flashlight
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First-aid kit
Optional:
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Camera with extra batteries
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Portable power bank
Safety Tips
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Acclimatize gradually: Poon Hill is moderate altitude, but some may experience mild altitude sickness.
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
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Hire a local guide: For navigation, local knowledge, and cultural insights.
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Travel insurance: Ensure coverage for trekking and emergency evacuation.
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Respect local culture: Dress modestly and follow village etiquette.
Conclusion: Make Your November Poon Hill Trek Unforgettable
Trekking to Poon Hill in November offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience with clear skies, scenic landscapes, and cultural immersion in Gurung villages. Proper preparation, from permits to packing and safety measures, ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.
For hassle-free trekking arrangements, permits, guides, and personalized itineraries, contact Best Heritage Tour, a trusted trekking agency with extensive expertise in Nepal:
Contact Best Heritage Tour Today:
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Website: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Prepare well, trek safely, and witness the awe-inspiring sunrise at Poon Hill, making your November trek an experience you will cherish forever.
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 13th November, 2025
