Best Time to Visit – Spring (March-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov) for clear skies and the best trekking conditions.
Tour Duration – Typically 10 to 14 days, depending on trekking pace and city tour preferences.
Poon Hill Trek Difficulty – Easy to moderate; suitable for beginners and families, with some steep uphill climbs (notably Ulleri’s stone steps).
Accommodation – Hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara/Bandipur/Chitwan; teahouses during the trek (basic but comfortable).
Transportation – Private vehicle for city transfers; optional flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara/Chitwan to save time.
Permits Required – ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) & TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card for trekking; Chitwan National Park entry permit for wildlife activities.
Trekking Guide & Porter – Recommended but not mandatory; porters can carry up to 15kg of luggage per person.
Packing Essentials – Trekking shoes, layered clothing, rain jacket, sunscreen, water bottle, trekking poles, and a camera.
Food Availability – Variety of Nepali, Tharu, Newari, and international cuisine available; vegetarian options widely offered.
Altitude Concerns – No risk of altitude sickness as Poon Hill is below 3,500m.
Adventure in Pokhara (Optional) – Paragliding, zip-lining, boating, and ultra-light flight for thrill-seekers.
Wildlife Activities in Chitwan – Jeep or canoe safari, birdwatching, elephant breeding center visit, and Tharu cultural dance.
Fitness Requirement– Moderate fitness required for the trek; city tours and jungle safaris are suitable for all age groups.
Health & Safety – Travel insurance recommended (should cover trekking & medical evacuation in case of emergencies).
Cultural Etiquette – Respect local customs, dress modestly in temples, and seek permission before photographing locals.
Booking Advice– Reserve permits, accommodations, and domestic flights in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest or explore Thamel, a vibrant tourist hub known for its lively atmosphere, souvenir shops, and great restaurants. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Nepali cuisine and a short briefing about the upcoming trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), a sacred Buddhist site offering panoramic city views. Next, explore Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples, where you can witness cremation rituals on the banks of the Bagmati River. Afterward, head to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Finally, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to ancient palaces, temples, and the Kumari (Living Goddess) Palace. After a day of cultural exploration, return to your hotel and prepare for the next day's journey.
After breakfast, undertake on a scenic drive to Pokhara along winding mountain roads, passing through lush valleys, rivers, and terraced farmlands. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours, with stops for refreshments and photo opportunities. Upon arrival in Pokhara, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, explore the Lakeside area, where you can stroll along the shores of Phewa Lake, enjoy a boat ride, and admire the reflection of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) in the water. Overnight in Pokhara.
After an early breakfast, drive for 1.5 hours to Nayapul (1,070m), the starting point of your trek. Begin trekking through picturesque villages and terraced fields alongside the Burungdi Khola (river). Pass through Birethanti, a small settlement with a checkpoint, and continue towards Tikhedhunga (1,540m). From here, prepare for a steep ascent up a stone staircase leading to Ulleri (1,960m), a charming Magar village with stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Overnight in Ulleri.
After breakfast, continue the ascent through rhododendron and oak forests, passing small streams and picturesque landscapes. As you gain altitude, you’ll notice the air getting cooler and fresher. The trail gradually leads to Ghorepani (2,875m), a popular trekking stop nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri peaks. In the evening, relax and prepare for an early morning hike to Poon Hill. Overnight in Ghorepani.
Wake up before dawn and start your 1-hour hike to Poon Hill, one of the best viewpoints in Nepal. As the sun rises, witness the golden hues illuminating the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu. After soaking in the breathtaking panorama, return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then, continue trekking through lush forests and ridges, passing scenic landscapes before reaching Tadapani (2,721m), a small settlement surrounded by rhododendron forests. Overnight in Tadapani.
After breakfast, descend through dense forests filled with birds and wildlife, making your way to Ghandruk (1,951m), a beautiful Gurung village known for its traditional houses and breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Take some time to explore the village, visit the Gurung Museum, and interact with locals. After lunch, drive back to Pokhara (3–4 hours), where you can relax by the lake or explore more of the city's attractions. Overnight in Pokhara.
After breakfast, drive towards Bandipur, a Newari heritage town perched on a ridge. The journey takes about 2.5–3 hours, passing through beautiful countryside. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets, admire the traditional Newari architecture, and visit local temples and viewpoints that offer panoramic mountain views. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and sunset views over the Himalayas. Overnight in Bandipur.
After breakfast, continue your journey to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to diverse wildlife. The drive takes 4–5 hours, passing through the lush Terai region. Upon arrival, check into your jungle resort and enjoy a welcome drink. In the evening, experience the Tharu Cultural Show, where the indigenous Tharu people perform traditional dances and music. Overnight in Chitwan.
Wake up early for a full day of jungle activities. Start with a canoe ride on the Rapti River, where you might spot mugger crocodiles and gharials. Then, undertake on a jeep safari or elephant safari, where you have a chance to see one-horned rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, deer, sloth bears, and various bird species. After lunch, take a guided jungle walk or visit the Elephant Breeding Center to learn about conservation efforts. In the evening, relax at your resort. Overnight in Chitwan.
After breakfast, bid farewell to Chitwan and either drive back to Kathmandu (5–6 hours) or take a 25-minute domestic flight. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. In the evening, Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will host a farewell dinner, where you can reflect on your incredible journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
This tour is a perfect blend of trekking, cultural exploration, adventure, and wildlife experiences in Nepal. It includes sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara, a short yet stunning Poon Hill Trek, a cultural stop in Bandipur, and a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park. This itinerary is ideal for travelers looking for a diverse experience enjoying the Himalayas, rich history, and Nepal’s incredible biodiversity all in one trip.
The Poon Hill Trek is considered an easy to moderate trek, making it suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The highest point is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). The trek involves 4-5 days of walking through rhododendron forests, charming Gurung and Magar villages, and stone staircases. While no technical climbing is required, a reasonable level of fitness is needed due to some steep ascents, especially in Ulleri, where you climb over 3,000 stone steps.
The best time for the Poon Hill Trek with City Tour is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These seasons offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas. Winter (December-February) is also an option, though it can be cold at higher altitudes. The monsoon season (June-August) is less ideal due to heavy rainfall, which makes the trails slippery and may obstruct mountain views.
Accommodation varies depending on the location:
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll find everything from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.
During the Poon Hill Trek, you’ll stay in teahouses, which are basic lodges offering warm meals and cozy rooms.
In Bandipur, charming heritage lodges provide a traditional experience.
In Chitwan, jungle lodges and resorts offer comfortable stays with wildlife excursions included.
Nepal offers a wide variety of food options. In Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bandipur, you can enjoy Nepali, Newari, Indian, Tibetan, and international cuisine. During the Poon Hill Trek, teahouses serve local dishes such as dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), momo (dumplings), noodle soups, pancakes, and porridge. In Chitwan, you’ll have a chance to try Tharu-style cuisine, which includes unique rice, fish, and vegetable dishes. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available throughout the tour.
Spectacular sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m), showcasing Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
Trekking through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and charming villages.
Experiencing the rich culture of Gurung and Magar communities.
Comfortable yet adventurous trekking experience with teahouse stays and scenic mountain trails.
Pokhara: Boating on Phewa Lake, visiting Davis Falls & Gupteshwor Cave, and adventure sports like paragliding, zip-lining, and ultra-light flights.
Bandipur: Exploring the well-preserved Newari town, visiting Thani Mai Temple for sunrise/sunset, and enjoying Himalayan views.
Chitwan: Jeep or canoe safari in Chitwan National Park, birdwatching, visiting Tharu villages, and experiencing a Tharu cultural dance performance.
Private vehicles are used for road travel between Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bandipur, and Chitwan.
A scenic 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is available as an alternative to a 6-7 hour drive.
The trek is entirely on foot, with no need for flights or additional transportation.
Travel from Chitwan to Kathmandu takes around 5-6 hours by road, but flights are available.
While it is possible to do the Poon Hill Trek independently, hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insights. A porter can also be hired to carry luggage, allowing you to trek with ease and enjoy the scenery.
For the Poon Hill Trek, you’ll need:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
For Chitwan, an entry permit is required for Chitwan National Park. Most tour operators arrange these permits for you.
Essentials for the Poon Hill Trek and the city tour include:
Comfortable trekking shoes and warm layers for high-altitude temperatures
Rain jacket or poncho (for unpredictable weather)
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
Trekking poles for support on steep ascents and descents
Refillable water bottle and water purification tablets
Power bank and camera to capture stunning landscapes
Light backpack for trekking essentials (porters carry the main luggage if hired)
Travel insurance is highly recommended for trekking. It should cover:
Medical emergencies and altitude sickness
Trip cancellations or delays
Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue if needed)
Yes! The Poon Hill Trek is one of the most accessible and scenic treks in Nepal, making it suitable for beginners, families, and older travelers. The city tour, cultural exploration, and wildlife safari add variety, making it a great all-in-one experience for all age groups.
You can book through local travel agencies, online tour operators, or directly with guides. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons, to secure the best accommodations and transportation.
