Poonhill Trek: 4 Nights 5 Days

Your Annapurna adventure begins with a scenic private drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The 6-7 hour journey travels along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trisuli and Marsyangdi rivers through terraced farmland and traditional villages, offering a captivating introduction to Nepal's diverse landscapes.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your luxurious lakeside hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind. A peaceful stroll along the shores of Fewa Lake is highly recommended, where the majestic Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountain is perfectly reflected in the tranquil waters, creating a quintessential Himalayan scene.

After breakfast, a 1.5-hour private jeep ride takes you to Nayapul, the traditional starting point of the Annapurna trek. The drive itself is scenic, following the Modi Khola River into the foothills.

Your trek begins with a gentle walk through the village of Birethanti, where you will cross a suspension bridge and have your trekking permits checked. The trail then starts a sustained ascent to Ulleri. The final section of today's hike is the famous 'Ulleri Staircase,' a long flight of stone steps that leads you to the village, which is perched on a steep mountainside. Ulleri is a predominantly Magar settlement, offering your first authentic taste of mountain village life and stunning views of the Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks.

Today's trek is a continuous ascent through some of the most beautiful forests in the Annapurna region. The trail climbs steadily through magnificent rhododendron forests, which are particularly spectacular when in bloom during the spring months (March-April).

You will pass through the small hamlets of Banthanti and Nangethanti before reaching Ghorepani. The name 'Ghorepani' translates to 'horse-water,' a relic from its history as a crucial resting and watering stop for mule caravans. This bustling village is situated on a high ridge, and on a clear day, you are rewarded with your first grand, panoramic views of the Nilgiri, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli peaks from the village itself.

This morning, you will wake before dawn for the short but steep 45-minute climb to the summit of Poon Hill. This is the iconic highlight of the trek. As the sun rises, it illuminates a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic vista of the Himalayas. The view encompasses the colossal Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to the west, the entire Annapurna massif to the north, and the distinct, unclimbed Machapuchare (Fishtail) dominating the skyline.

After descending to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast, you continue your journey. The trail initially descends through a forested area before climbing again to a high ridge. It then traverses through more enchanting rhododendron and oak forests before a final descent brings you to Tadapani. The name Tadapani means 'far water,' and the village offers intimate, close-up views of Machapuchare and Annapurna South from your lodge.

The final day of trekking is a pleasant descent through a lush forest of rhododendron and oak. The trail leads you directly to Ghandruk, one of the largest and most picturesque Gurung villages in Nepal. It is a model village for tourism, with neatly paved stone paths and traditional slate-roofed houses built on steep terraces.

Take some time to explore the village, visit the small local museum to learn about the rich Gurung culture and their history as Gurkha soldiers, and admire the dramatic, head-on view of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. After lunch, a short walk takes you to the road head at Kimche, where a private jeep awaits for the 1.5-hour drive back to Pokhara. The evening is yours to relax and celebrate the successful completion of your trek in the comfort of your lakeside hotel.