Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill 12 Days

Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill 12 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 4,130 m/13,550 ft
  • Group Size 2-20
  • Trip Style Trek
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • An adventurous 12 day trek in Nepal that leads to the lap of Mt. Annapurna, the tenth-highest mountain in the world
  • Spend nights in beautiful villages like Tikhedgunga and Ghorepani 
  • Catch a gorgeous sunrise from Poon Hill viewpoint
  • Meet with different Nepali communities and get to see their daily lifestyle
  • Walk through lush rhododendron and pine forests, crossing hanging bridges
  • Explore the serenity and wilderness of the Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Witness stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
  • Spend a night at the Annapurna Base Camp

This is one of the best Annapurna Base Camp trek itineraries that combine excursions to the famous Ghorepani village and Poon Hill viewpoint while visiting the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m/13,550 ft). The journey is full of adventure, intimate encounters with the locals, and stunning mountain vistas.

Trekking through beautiful villages, you will gradually ascend to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna, which will provide you ample time to acclimatize. The route goes via forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. You will walk on steep hillsides and also pass by rocky gorges.

The Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill is achievable by all ages of trekkers if they are fit. Unlike most treks in the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Base Camp trek 12 days is recommended for both beginner and experienced trekkers. Moreover, you do not even have to train hard. Light walking and exercise are enough to prepare for this trek.

What to expect during the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill?

During the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani, you will have a lifetime experience. The trek will take you far away from the bustle of the city. You will be exploring the remote mountain villages, forests, and pastures before reaching the Annapurna Sanctuary. Along the way, spend nights in picturesque villages resided by communities like Gurungs, Magars, Chhetris, Brahmins, etc.

Ghorepani village, located at 2,860 meters (9,385 ft) is one of the major highlights of this 12 days trek. It is surrounded by rhododendron forests and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. Likewise, from here, the trail ascends to the Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,525 ft) viewpoint. You will witness a gorgeous sunrise from this place along with a mesmerizing panorama of the Himalayan mountains.

The trekking route is tranquil. During the peak trekking seasons - spring and autumn there are many trekkers on the route, but the journey is still phenomenal. You will see mountains like Dhaularigi (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), and many others while trekking.

Before returning to Pokhara, soak in the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda, which will help you relieve sore muscles, giving a perfect end to the trek. Following our Annapurna Base Camp trek 12 days itinerary, you will spend two nights in Pokhara as well. Enjoy the tranquility of Phewa Lake and shop at the bustling Lakeside Market.

Is the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Poon Hill right for you?

Annapurna Base Camp trek via Poon Hill is a 12 days moderate trek. If you have never trekked before and want to do a not-so-tough but adventurous trek in the Himalayas, then the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Poon Hill is one of the best options. The trek is not easy but not too challenging as well. If you are fit, you can do this trek.

Perks of doing Annapurna Base Camp trek 12 days with us

During the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill, our native guides will accompany you. The heavy duffle bags are carried by our porters, so you will be walking freely, enjoying the surroundings. Likewise, our Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill cost is also the best in the market. We provide a top-notch service during the trek.

Below, we have mentioned some other perks that you get while trekking with us:

  • Trek with friendly and professional guides and porters
  • Flexible itinerary that you can customize anytime
  • Top-notch service
  • 24/7 support system 
  • Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners and airport transfers as per the itinerary
  • No hidden cost or policy

Itinerary

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Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: Welcome dinner

Meet our representatives at the airport. You can find them with your nameplate or our company's banner. We will pick you up from the airport on your arrival day and drop you at the hotel. Spend the remaining day in Kathmandu, resting and exploring. In the late evening, join us for a trek briefing and a welcome dinner.

    Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles

    Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft

    Duration: 6-7 hours

    Accommodation: Hotel

    Meals: Breakfast and lunch

    From Kathmandu, we will drive to Pokhara. The ride will be long and beautiful. We use a comfortable tourist standard bus. On the way, we can see striking views of rivers, lush hills, terraces, and waterfalls. As we reach Pokhara, Mt. Fishtail and Mt. Dhaualgiri comes into perspective.

    Spend the evening in Pokhara, relaxing at the shore of Phewa Lake. Likewise, explore the Lakeside Market. It is like the Thamel of Pokhara. You can also do last-minute shopping as there are many gear shops.

      Trek distance: 7 km/4.34 miles

      Duration: 1.5/2 hours drive & 3/4 hours trek

      Altitude: 1,960 m/5,430 ft

      Accommodation: Lodge

      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      Today, we will begin trekking. First, we will take a quick drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From here, we will begin trekking along the cliff sides. The trail soon joins a forested path and leads to Birethanti. Further, we will ascend via terraced farms and small villages like Sudame and Hile. Soon, we will reach Tikhedhunga, and from here, climb more than 3000 stairs to reach Ulleri.

         

        Trek distance: 11 km/6 miles

        Duration: 3/4 hours

        Altitude: 2,860 m/9,385 ft

        Accommodation: Lodge

        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        From Ulleri, we will trek to Ghorepani village. It is a famous Gurung village surrounded by beautiful rhododendron forests and snow-capped mountains. On the way, we will see striking views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna, Dhampus Peak, Nilgiri, and Fishtail.

           

          Trek distance: 13 km/8 miles

          Duration: 5 hours

          Altitude: 3,210 m/10,525 ft

          Accommodation: Lodge

          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          Early in the morning, we will hike to Poon Hill viewpoint. It is a well-marked route through rhododendron forests. From Poon Hill, we will catch a gorgeous sunrise and witness a breathtaking mountain panorama. Return to Ghorepani village and continue trekking towards Chuile. The trail goes past small settlements and lush forests.

            Trek distance: 10 km/6 miles

            Duration: 5-6 hours

            Altitude: 2,310 m/7,579 ft

            Accommodation: Lodge

            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

            From Chuile, we will ascend to Upper Sinuwa. The trail is narrow and offers superb landscapes. We will trek, crossing small bridges and dense forests. The views of mountains like Hiunchuli, Fishtail, etc, are phenomenal along the way.

              Trek distance: 14 km/8.6 miles

              Duration: 5 hours

              Altitude: 3,200 m/6,393 ft

              Accommodation: Lodge

              Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 

              Leaving Sinuwa, we will follow a serene route to Deurali. The trail gradually ascends through lush forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. On the way, you will cross suspension bridges and trek past small villages. You will get to see many birds and vegetation. Likewise, the view of Annapurna South is exceptionally stunning on this day.

                Distance: 9 km/5.5 miles

                Duration: 3-4 hours 

                Altitude: 4,130 m/13,550 ft

                Accommodation: Lodge

                Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                Today, we will reach the Annapurna Base Camp. The trail from Deurali gradually ascends via dense forests and passes by the Himalaya Hotel. Soon, we will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary and continue trekking, following the rugged, steep track to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. From here, the trail gets narrow and ascends to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna.

                  Trek distance: 14 km/8.6 miles

                  Duration: 6 hours 

                  Altitude: 2,310 m/7,578 ft

                  Accommodation: Lodge

                  Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                  We will have a delicious breakfast with stunning views. After that, we will begin trekking back to Bamboo. The trail is the same as before. We will trek out of the Annapurna Sanctuary and follow the Modi river valley. Trekking through small settlements and dense forests, we will reach Bamboo.

                    Trek distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles

                    Duration: 3/4 hours trek - 2 hours drive

                    Altitude: 1,780 m/6,393 ft

                    Accommodation: Hotel

                    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

                    From Bamboo, the route is different to Jhinu Danda. We will descend to Kimrong Khola and continue from here via lush forests of rhododendrons and bamboo to Jhinu Danda. This place is popular for its natural hot springs. We will enjoy the natural hot springs before driving back to Pokhara.

                      Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles

                      Altitude: 1300m

                      Duration: 6-7 hours

                      Accommodation: Hotel

                      Meals: Breakfast and lunch

                      From Kathmandu, we will drive to Kathmandu. The ride will be long and beautiful. We use a comfortable tourist standard bus. On the way, we can see striking views of rivers, lush hills, terraces, and waterfalls.

                        Meals: Breakfast only

                        Get ready to leave the hotel as per your departure time. Our team will pick you up from the hotel and drop you at the international airport. They will bid you our last goodbye.

                          Cost Details
                          Includes
                          • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                          • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                          • The two nights stay in Kathmandu, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                          • The two nights stay in Pokhara, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                          • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Kathmandu, Pokhara to Nayapul, and Jhinu Dada to Pokhara.
                          • All necessary trekking permits, like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, the TIMS Card, etc.
                          • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                          • All accommodations during the mountain.
                          • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, when and if available.
                          • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                          • Government-approved, first-aid trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide, and of the 2 guests 1 porter
                          • First-aid kit.
                          • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                          • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                          • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                          • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                          Excludes
                          • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                          • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu and Pokhara.
                          • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                          • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                          • Personal guide and porter.
                          • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                          • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                          • Tipping to staff.
                          • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                          Useful Information

                          Difficulty

                          • Difficulty level and terrain: The Annapurna Base Camp trek is considered moderately difficult, which makes it accessible to beginner trekkers as well. While not as high as some other treks in the region, the Annapurna Base Camp trek still involves a significant gain in altitude. The trek takes you to an elevation of about 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) at the base camp. The trail conditions vary, ranging from well-maintained paths to rugged and rocky terrain. There are sections with steep ascents and descents, stone staircases, and narrow trails.
                          • Altitude sickness and preventive measures: There are some risks of altitude sickness during the ABC trek, but it is also avoidable if you stick to precautions. To prevent altitude during the Annapurna Base Camp trek, drink plenty of water and do not rush. Listen to your body and eat ample food. Maintain your pace, and do not smoke or drink alcohol.
                          • Previous trekking experience: Previous trekking experience is not needed for the Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill, but the trekkers have to be in good shape.
                          • Trek preparation: To prepare for the ABC trek, participants can exercise and be involved in cardio activities like cycling, swimming, running, and hiking. Also, research about the trail and packing list. Get yourself physically and mentally ready for the trek start.

                          The best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal

                          • Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal. It is the season of flowers and stable weather. Neither too hot nor too cold a climate makes exploring the Himalayas lovely. Likewise, the mountain views are also fantastic, and the ABC trail is bustling with trekkers from all around the world.
                          • Autumn (September to November): After spring, autumn is the second best time of the year to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. This is the season of festivals in Nepal. The stable weather with a mild climate and stunning mountain panoramas makes autumn a popular time for trekking. The vegetation, crisp air, and clear sky allow for a lovely trekking experience.
                          • Summer/monsoon (June to August) and Winter (December to February): These two seasons are off time for Annapurna Base Camp trekking. Even though some trekkers choose to do this trek in these seasons, as well. Summer/monsoon has many more weather challenges, making the trail prone to landslides. Likewise, the winter cold makes trekking to ABC quite difficult.

                          Accommodation and Meals

                          • Rooms: Lodges will be accommodation during the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Most rooms are twin-shared rooms. If you would like a single room, inform us ahead. Do note that a single room may cost you some extra money. Lodges provide simple but cozy accommodations along the trail.
                          • Washroom: Washrooms are mostly shared in the lodges, especially at the higher elevations. In some places, you may get a private washroom as well. You will find both Western-style and squat toilets. The lodges do not provide toilet paper, so carry yours.
                          • Hot shower: Hot showers are available at an extra charge. You may not be able to get a shower daily, so wet tissues are very important for the journey.
                          • Charging and WiFi:  Lodges have both charging and WiFi facilities. There are separate charging stations in the lodges, where trekkers can charge their devices. Likewise, WiFi has better connections in villages at lower altitudes. Both services will cost you additional money.
                          • Meals: You will get three meals a day during the Annapurna Base Camp trek with Ghorepani. All the meals will be provided as per the menu of the lodges. Common food includes dal bhat, different kinds of fried rice, porridge, thukpa, momo, noodles, pasta, french fries, rice and curries, chapati, burgers, etc.

                          Additional Information

                          • Travel insurance: To do the Annapurna Base Camp trek, travel insurance is necessary. It is non-negotiable and must cover emergency helicopter evacuation. You can buy travel insurance in your country. We use travel insurance if there is a medical emergency or any unseen situation that demands immediate evacuation from the trail.
                          • Passport and visa: Passport and visa are needed to enter Nepal. Both documents you can obtain in your country from the authorized government departments. Likewise, travelers from many countries can also apply for a travel visa upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
                          • Money exchange: There are banks and money exchange centers in Thamel, Kathmandu, where travelers can exchange money. Likewise, you can also withdraw money from ATMs. There is no ATM in the Annapurna Base Camp trek route, so carry ample cash with you for the journey.
                          • Tips: The guide and porter will ask for tips at the end of their service. If you are happy with their service, feel free to tip them as much as you wish. Usually, trekkers tip 10% of the package cost to the guide and porters.
                          • Luggage: You will use a duffle bag during the Annapurna Base Camp trek to carry all the heavy clothing and gear. The duffel bags are carried by porters and the weight limit is 10 kg per trekker. Likewise, trekkers can carry a daypack on themselves to keep essential stuff with them. Your daypack weight shouldn't go above 5 kg.
                          • Personal expense: Our Annapurna Base Camp trek with Ghorepani package does not cover things like travel insurance, tips, international flights, shopping, etc. You have to budget these expenses and also keep some emergency funds aside.

                          FAQs

                          • Poon Hill is a short trekking route in the Annapurna region. It is a viewpoint located at 3,210 meters. However, Annapurna Base Camp is the lap of the tenth highest mountain in the world. It is located at 4,130 meters, and trekking here is more difficult than trekking to Poon Hill.

                          • Yes, you can see Annapurna I from Poon Hill. Likewise, you can also see other mountains in the Annapurna range from Poon Hill.

                             

                          • The best months to do the Annapurna Base Camp trek are March, April, May, September, October, and November. These months have favorable weather conditions and a lovely climate to trek and enjoy breathtaking mountain views.

                          • While trekking from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, you have to climb around 3,381 staircases. It is quite tiring, but if you maintain a good pace and take small breaks to catch your breath, you can climb these staircases without any issues.

                          • Yes, you can sleep at the Annapurna Base Camp. There are some teahouses below the glacier where you can spend the night.

                          • Poon Hill is famous for its stunning mountain panorama and sunrise. From here, you can see mountains all around you, and the view is exceptional. Likewise, trekking to Poon Hill offers a short break from the bustle of Pokhara, making it an easy and quick venture.

                          • You will start the Annapurna Base Camp trek from Nayapul. To reach here, you have to drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Nayapul.

                          • The Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghandruk is not that difficult. It is like a leisure adventure hike via lush forests and beautiful villages. You do have to be fit, but prior trekking experience is not needed. Anyone can do the Annapurna Base Camp via the Ghandruk village trek.

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