Overview of Annappurana Base Camp via Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. It takes hikers to the heart of the Annapurna mountain range. The route goes through diverse landscapes such as rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages. The final destination, Annapurna Base Camp, is located at 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) within the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high-altitude amphitheater surrounded by high Himalayan peaks like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri. This trek is a great way to experience both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Annapurna region.
Most trekkers reach ABC via Chhomrong and the Modi Khola valley, walking through rhododendron forests, bamboo forests, and alpine landscapes. Trekkers stay at teahouses and in traditional mountain villages along the route. The trek is moderately difficult and can be completed by moderately fit hikers.
The Anapurna Base Camp via Poon Hill trek is a more scenic and longer version of the trek. This trek starts on the same route as the trek to ABC, Nayapul, and then passes through Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Ghorepani, linking to the main ABC trail. Ghorepani is a village at an elevation of just under 2900 metres, from here begins a short hike to Poon Hill, at (3,210m). Poon Hill is a well-known viewpoint, for watching the sunrise over the Himalayas, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. This trek is often referred to as the Annapurna Base Camp with Poon Hill sunrise trek.
This 13 day Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poonhill itinerary starts with your arrival in Kathmandu, exploring the city for a day. On the second day, you will travel to Pokhara by scenic drive, which is a lake city and the start of the main Annapurna region. The next day you will drive to Nayapul and begin trekking through farmland and villages until reaching Ulleri and then on to Ghorepani.
From Ghorepani, you hike early in the morning to Poon Hill for a panoramic sunrise view of the Himalayas. After enjoying the views, you descend to Tadapani and continue trekking toward Chhomrong, the entry point to the Annapurna Sanctuary. From Chhomrong, the trail goes through Sinuwa, Bamboo, and Deurali, leading to Machapuchhre Base Camp and then Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). This is the highest point of the trek and the main highlight. After spending time at ABC, you begin your return journey by trekking down to Bamboo or Upper Sinuwa, and then to Jhinu Danda, where you can enjoy a natural hot spring bath.
On the final trekking day, you walk to Madkyu, where a vehicle will take you back to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you return to Kathmandu to end the journey. This combined route is also known as the Ghorepani Poon Hill to ABC trek, Poon Hill ABC route, or Annapurna Sanctuary Trek via Poon Hill.
The Annapurna Base Camp trek from Poon Hill offers a mix of cultural experiences, gradual acclimatization, and varied scenery. It is a great choice for trekkers who want to enjoy both short and long trek highlights. This route also provides a chance to explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages, interact with locals, and see the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area. For more details on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, explore the complete guidebook for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Poonhill
- Lush green forest, alpine forest, and rich biodiversity in the largest conservation area - Annapurna Conservation Area
- Trekking through the yak pastures, grazing lands, and farmlands in Manang Valley
- Magnificent glacial lakes, natural waterfalls, deep gorges, and glacier rivers
- Stunning views of beautiful snow-capped mountains like the Annapurna range, Thorang Peak, Manaslu, Gorkha Himal, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Machapuchhre, and many more
- Overnight Stay at the Base Camp of Annapurna
- The historic sacred temple, which is equally important for the Hindu and Buddhist religions
- The most famous viewpoint for sunrise in Poonhill
- Modern luxury hospitality in Pokhara city
Major Highlights of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani Poonhill
Mesmerizing Mountain Vistas
The goal of this trip is to get to the base camp of the tenth-highest mountain in the world and get in touch with the mountains in Nepal. The Ghorepani Poonhill, in the Annapurna Region, is one of the best places in Nepal for trekking enthusiasts. During the trip, you will be able to see many beautiful mountains, including Mt. Annapurna I, the tenth-highest mountain in the world, as well as Mt. Annapurna II, Mt. Annapurna III, Mt. Annapurna IV, Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, Mt. Dhaulagiri I, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and the Nile horizon.
Jhinu Danda
Following your arrival at the Annapurna Base Camp in the Annapurna Region, you will go through a beautiful hill, Jhinu Danda, a natural hot spring on the premises for guests to enjoy. On this danda, you will relax, take in the sights and sounds of nature, and give your muscles some much-needed treatment. Jhinu Hot Springs is a quick, natural spa to ward off the soreness from the trek. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in Nepal for trekkers.
Prominent ethnic groups and cultures
In terms of physicality, Annapurna Base Camp is a moderate-grade hike, but at the same time, it is a spiritually awakening trip. You'll pass through small villages and settlements in Gurung and Magar, Nepal. The rhododendron-lined paths radiate the cultural significance of the villages and the villagers. This ethnicity of Nepal is settled mostly in the lower belt of the Annapurna region of Nepal. But those involved in hospitality live up to the Base Camp of Annapurna to serve trekkers from all around the world. The Gurungs and Magars in Nepal follow Buddhism, so you'll encounter little chores and gumbas along the trails. Pine and bamboo forests offer a wonderful escape from metropolitan life.
Is This Trip the Right Choice For You?
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered moderately physically demanding. The trek involves walking for around 6-7 hours a day on occasionally steep and uneven ground, and you will reach your highest altitude of about 4130m (13,550 feet). Although this is not as high as some other treks in the Himalayas, the air is thinner, and this can still pose a challenge, particularly if you do not do much exercise or hiking, or haven't hiked in a while.
If you're able to walk for two or more hours at a time, you're off to a wonderful start. The physical training you'll be doing when you walk, hike, or jog will help you immensely. We also encourage some cross-training (cycling, swimming, treadmill, etc.) and building endurance on your time before your trek. A gym is not necessary, but you do want to be active. Most healthy folks can do this trek with a little preparation, and you will enjoy an incredible journey to Annapurna Base Camp.
How difficult is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani Poonhill?
The difficulty of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends upon your fitness level. However, due to the well-maintained trails and a measured increase in elevation, the ABC trek is achievable for hikers. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek typically takes up to 10-12 days, with options for shorter itineraries too.
The moderate walk to Annapurna Base Camp trek doesn't need technical mountaineering knowledge. Although a 115 km (72 mi) round trip from the trailhead may seem far, you will be walking for 8 out of the entire 11 days of the expedition. It means that you will walk an average of 14.5 kilometers (9 miles) per day (13,550 feet) to reach an altitude of 4,130 m. The walk is only difficult due to the number of days spent hiking and exploring a specific area in Deurali. Aside from that, it's an easy trip that anyone can take and is much easier than the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp treks. We frequently organize treks to Annapurna Base Camp and plan itineraries according to your needs and desires. For more queries, contact us.
When is the season to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Poonhill?
Any time of the year is a good time to go on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek because every season offers a unique trekking experience. The ideal time for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek depends on your preferences for the weather and your goals for the journey. The two Best seasons to visit Annapurna Base Camp Trek are autumn (September to October) and spring (March to May). The weather and temperature are ideal for trekking during these times. The skies are clear, and the days are pleasant and bright. The mountain views are breathtaking. Additionally, there is rarely any probability of precipitation throughout these seasons.
Why Choose Footprint Adventure for the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poonhill?
If you are planning to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, including Ghorepani Poonhill, then Footprint Adventure is here to provide you with safe, smooth, and unforgettable trekking experiences We offer safe, well-organized trips led by government-certified and experienced guides. We prioritize your safety, comfort, and amazing trekking experience. We offer flexible itineraries, guaranteed best prices, and personalized services to match requirements. As a responsible travel company, we support local communities and practice sustainable tourism. Our high success rate and positive reviews show our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. With Footprint Adventure, you get reliable support, professional guidance, and a meaningful trekking journey in Nepal.