ABC Trek via Poon Hill

9-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani & Poon Hill: Full Itinerary

Experience the ultimate Himalayan loop. This 9-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Ghorepani and Poon Hill combines two Himalayan icons. Meanwhile, you get the famous Poon Hill sunrise and the high-altitude glory of the Annapurna Sanctuary in one journey. This ABC via Ghorepani 9 Days experience follows a scenic Poon Hill to ABC Trek Itinerary. As a result, you can manage the ABC Trek Difficulty and Altitude comfortably, with proper acclimatization built in. Whether you are trekking during the Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani or any other season, our expert guides are with you. Therefore, you get a safe adventure and a majestic experience through the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

ABC Trek via Poon Hill: 9-Day Overview

  • Trip Duration: 8 nights, 9 days.
  • The Max Altitude: 4130m (Annapurna Base Camp)
  • Our Start/End Point: Pokhara
  • Our ABC Trek Difficulty and Altitude: Moderate difficulty with professional acclimatization.
  • Transportation: Private vehicle
  • Accommodation: Traditional Tea Houses (Private Lodgings)
  • Group Type: Private Treks (Individuals, Friends, & Families)
  • Meals: Main course with tea or coffee
  • Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani: March – May & September – December.

ABC Trek via Poon Hill Highlights:

Iconic Poon Hill Sunrise: This is a core part of our scenic Poon Hill to ABC Trek Itinerary.

The Annapurna Sanctuary: This represents the ultimate goal of your ABC Trek 9 Days.

Natural Wellness: Along the way, you can relax in the Jhinu Danda hot springs

Cultural Immersion: Walk through traditional Gurung and Magar villages.

Diverse Flora: Trek through the world’s largest rhododendron forests.

Diverse Landscapes: You will transition from lush tropical valleys to high alpine meadows. Along the way, you’ll experience the full range of ABC Trek Difficulty and Altitude

Glacial Streams & Waterfalls: Enjoy the refreshing sights of crystal-clear waterfalls and glacial streams along the Modi Khola.

Himalayan Hospitality: Experience cozy tea houses with local meals. You’ll also enjoy warm hospitality throughout your ABC Trek 9 Days.

Epic Mountain Views: Get up close with Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and the massive Annapurna South.

Nature & Wildlife: Spot rare Himalayan birds and butterflies, best seen during the Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani.

ABC Trek via Poon Hill – Price

Price per person (with food): USD 910
Price per person (without food): USD 715

We recommend the “Without Food” option for most guests. This way, you can choose your own meals and manage your own budget. Plus, you get to eat what you actually feel like along the trail, rather than being locked into a fixed food package.

Private treks, shared savings

All our treks are private — designed for individuals, friends, and families rather than large fixed groups. However, if you know other travellers who’d like to join the same trek on the same dates, we’re happy to take you all together. As a result, the per-person cost comes down for everyone. Likewise, if we come across other travellers interested in the same trek and dates, we’ll be glad to suggest the option to you as well. Meanwhile, if you’re already travelling as a group of more than one person, just let us know. In turn, we’ll provide you the exact price per person based on your group size.

What’s Included in ABC Trek via Poon Hill

  • Trekking permit (ACAP)
  • Our Professional Trekking guide
  • All Meals (Main Course + Tea/Coffee). It doesn’t include starters or desserts.
  • Tea House Accommodation
  • Private Transport (Hotel Pick-up/Drop)
  • Hot shower
  • Mineral Water & Purification Tablets
  • Toilet paper
  • Standard basic first aid kit (excluding medication). We recommend that you bring your own personal medicines.
  • An oximeter for monitoring altitude-related safety.

Exclusions for your ABC Trek via Poon Hill

  • Alcoholic beverages & Soft Drinks
  • Wifi and Cell phone charging
  • Hot drinking water
  • Your Personal Snacks & Desserts
  • Porter Services (available on request)
  • Sleeping bag (we rent them for an additional fee).
  • Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

NOTE: We encourage guests to bring their own trekking equipment whenever possible, as personal gear provides the highest level of comfort and familiarity during the journey. However, for those who may be missing certain items, we offer a small selection of trekking equipment at no additional cost. Please let us know which items you require, and we will confirm their availability.

A Flexible Journey Through the Annapurna Region

All our treks are private and fully customizable. This specific ABC via Ghorepani & Poon Hill itinerary is crafted for guests with an average fitness level. However, we recognize that every traveler is different.

Designed for Your Comfort: We are more than happy to modify the pace, the route, or the daily plans to suit your preferences. If you desire a leisurely trek through rhododendron forests or a specific cultural experience in the villages, we can make it happen.

Let’s Plan Together: Feel free to Contact Us to create a trekking experience that is perfectly tailored to your goals. Your journey, your pace, your way.

ABC via Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking Route Map

ABC Trek via Poon Hill – Elevation Profile

Annapurna Base Camp trek via Ghorepani Poon Hill elevation and altitude graph – best trekking route from Pokhara, Nepal

Your Detailed ABC Trek via Poon Hill 9-Day Itinerary

1st Day: Scenic Drive to Birethanti & Trek to Ulleri

  • Elevation: 1,960m | Drive: 1.5 hours | Trek: 4–5 hours
    Your Poon Hill ABC Itinerary officially begins with a private drive from Pokhara to Birethanti. Afterward, the trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola. It passes through the charming villages of Sudame and Hile. Following lunch, the trail’s first major milestone awaits: the famous 3,000 stone steps ascending from Tikhedhunga. Reward yourself with your first breathtaking glimpse of Annapurna South.

2nd Day: The Forest Ascent to Ghorepani

  • Elevation: 2,860m | Trek: 5 hours
    Today is dedicated to a steady ascent through the heart of the Annapurna region. Following a hearty breakfast in Ulleri, the path enters a magnificent rhododendron and oak forest. This is a spectacular sight, especially during the spring bloom. As you gain altitude, the horizon opens up to reveal stunning panoramas of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. By evening, the day concludes in the vibrant village of Ghorepani, a premier vantage point for trekkers.

3rd Day: Poon Hill Sunrise & the Journey Continues to Chuile

  • Peak height: 2,309m (Poon Hill 3,210m) | Trek: 5–6 hours
    An early morning hike brings you to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. Here, you will witness a breathtaking Himalayan sunrise. 

Take time to soak in stunning panoramic views of the mighty Dhaulagiri massif. Then, we continue the journey into the ever-changing landscapes of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Finally, we descend through ancient forests toward the settlement of Chuile.

4th Day: Crossing the River to Sinuwa

  • Current Elevation: 2,360m | Trek: 5 hours
    The trail descends steeply through terraced fields to the Kimrong Khola river. After crossing a suspension bridge, we begin a steady climb toward Chhomrong. This is the largest Gurung village in the region. From here, the trail drops again. Then climbs to Sinuwa, which offers a direct view of the valley.

5th Day: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,200 m)

  • Target Altitude: 3,200m | Trek: 6–7 hours
    Today, your ABC Trek via Ghorepani enters the inner sanctuary. The trail winds through dense bamboo and oak forests. As the air becomes cooler and thinner, we pass through the “Bamboo” settlement. Eventually, the forest begins to thin out as we reach Deurali.

6th Day: The Peak of our ABC Trek Difficulty and Altitude: Reaching ABC

  • Max Altitude: 4,130m | Trek: 5 hours
    Today you reach the “Heart of the Sanctuary.” This is the highest point of your ABC Trek 9 Days adventure. First, we trek through the narrow valley between Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre Camp. Then, the trail opens up into the wide glacial bowl of Annapurna Base Camp. Here, you are surrounded by 360-degree mountain views.

7th Day: Sunrise at ABC & Descent to Bamboo

  • Descending to: 2,310m | Trek: 8–9 hours
    Wake up early to witness the sun hitting the peaks. Following breakfast, we begin our long descent. Eventually, we rest in the lush, oxygen-rich air of Bamboo.

8th Day: Riverside Trek & Jhinu Danda Hot Springs

  • Resting Altitude: 1,780m | Trek: 6–7 hours
    Our descent continues through the forest. Along the way, we pass Sinuwa and Chhomrong. After leaving Chhomrong behind, the trail drops steeply to Jhinu Danda. Later in the afternoon, you can walk down to the riverbank. Here, you can soak in the Natural Hot Springs. This experience is the perfect way to heal your sore muscles after days of trekking.

9th Day: Final Walk & Drive back to Pokhara

  • Final Altitude: 820m | Trek: 2–3 hours | Drive: 2-3 hours
    On your final morning, enjoy a gentle walk along the banks of the Modi Khola. While trekking, you will cross one of the region’s longest suspension bridges. Once we reach Birethanti, our private vehicle will be waiting. Finally, we drive you back to Pokhara for a hot shower.

Please note that the trekking duration mentioned for each day is an approximate estimate and can vary depending on individual hiking paces, weather conditions, and other factors.

About Ghorepani & the Annapurna Sanctuary

Ghorepani sits at the crossroads of several trekking trails in the Annapurna region. The village is home to Gurung and Magar communities, whose teahouses have welcomed trekkers here for decades. Nearby, Poon Hill rises to 3,210 meters. It remains one of Nepal’s most famous sunrise viewpoints, with sweeping views across the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Meanwhile, deeper along the trail lies the Annapurna Sanctuary itself. This natural amphitheater is enclosed by towering peaks, including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. Today, the entire area falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest protected region. As a result, trekkers experience stunning scenery alongside a living cultural and ecological landscape. In addition, this varied terrain is part of what shapes the ABC Trek Difficulty and Altitude along the route. Therefore, planning your visit during the Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani makes the journey through this landscape even more rewarding.

Available Trekking Equipments:

  • Sturdy Trekking Poles
  • Headlight
  • Detailed Trekking Map
  • Gloves & Sun hats
  • Hot water bottles
  • Trekking duffel bag
  • Raincoat

Pro-Tip: Free luggage storage is provided during your trek

Packing List: Preparing for your ABC Trek via Ghorepani

To ensure you handle the ABC Trek Difficulty and Altitude comfortably, we recommend the following gear. Having the right equipment is essential for the Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani.

Essential Clothing:

  • Down Jacket: Essential for the freezing mornings at Poon Hill and ABC.
  • Hiking Boots: Waterproof, sturdy, and well broken-in.
  • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
  • Trekking Trousers: Lightweight, quick-dry, and comfortable for long walks.
  • Outer Shell: A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket.

Accessories:

  • Personal Sleeping Bag: (Although you can rent one, many guests prefer their own)
  • Daypack (25-35L): To carry your water, snacks, camera, and rain gear.
  • Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and UV-protection sunglasses.

Health & Hygiene:

  • Personal Medication: Any specific medicine you take regularly.
  • Quick-Dry Towel: Compact and easy to pack.
  • Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: For staying fresh between tea houses.
  • Blister Plasters: Crucial for the steep descents and stone steps.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek FAQ

When is the Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani?

The Best Time for ABC via Ghorepani is Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–December), when you will experience the clearest skies and most stable weather.

Is this ABC Trek via Ghorepani suitable for beginners?

Certainly, this ABC Trek 9 Days route is moderate and perfect for fit hikers. No technical climbing is required, making it accessible for first-timers.

What makes the Poon Hill ABC Itinerary special?

Unique to our Poon Hill ABC Itinerary is the combination of the best sunrise viewpoint in Nepal with the high-altitude sanctuary. It truly is the most scenic way to complete an ABC Trek via Ghorepani.

Why choose ABC via Ghorepani 9 Days trek ?

This 9-day route combines the iconic Poon Hill sunrise, rich Gurung village culture, and diverse Himalayan landscapes with the ultimate reward of reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m. The extended itinerary gives better acclimatization and a more relaxed pace than shorter alternatives, making it ideal for both first-time trekkers and experienced hikers.

👉 Read more about the Annapurna Conservation Area from the official Nepal Tourism Board.

Read What Our Guests Are Saying

See why trekkers choose Tibetan Encounter for their Annapurna adventures. Read our guest reviews on Google, and discover why guests trust us for safe, well-guided treks across Nepal.

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Daniel Orchard
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We joined the full day Tibetan Cultural Tour after a recommendation from a fellow traveller. We had a brilliant time and it was genuinely so eye opening for us and such a valuable learning experience! Thupten is a fantastic guide and educator and we learnt so much about Tibetan history, culture, food and practices. It was like a full deep dive and course in a day with practical learnings from the monasteries, medical centre and refugee communities. Would highly recommend to anyone and such a different experience one will likely never have again!
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Sushi Golden
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當天只有我一個人,還是得到很完整的導覽! 導遊先生學識淵博,一整天的知識把腦袋都塞滿了,除了歷史人文,也接觸大量的佛教思想和達賴喇嘛的理念,遇見的每個人都是心胸開放的分享這一切,靈魂也充實了,把我照顧的很好,這是很值得的一趟導覽。我來自台灣,很推薦來博卡拉的大家可以空下一整天參加~
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Brian Ransdell
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Fantastic! I feel like I took an entire college class on Buddhism and Tibetan culture in one day! Mr. Thupten, the guide, LOVES what he does and it shows. He is a walking encyclopedia of so, so much in so many fields of Buddhism, Tibet, the Dalai Lama and Nepal. You learn so much about history, food, geopolitics, environmental factors, Buddhist teachings, and the life of a monk. The highlight was definitely sitting down and speaking with a young monk 1:1 for 30-45 minutes about his life history, way of life, belief systems and thought journey in life. A delicious lunch is served; one also gets to try butter tea (I liked it) and Tibetian bread and grains. You visit two different refugee encampment areas with their own monasteries and temples with a deep understanding of the histories behind them. This is definitely a must do while in Pokhara. It is certainly a multi-faceted deep dive that you will not regret presented by a fantastic guide.
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Marco Rontini
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One of the best experiences I’ve had in Nepal. The Tibetan Encounter is much more than a simple guided tour: it is a real immersion into Tibetan culture and the life of the Tibetan refugee community in Nepal. The guide has an incredible depth of knowledge and explains everything with genuine passion: Tibetan philosophy, religion, lifestyle, social organization, history, and the experience of Tibetan refugees in Nepal. You don’t just visit places — you really start to understand the culture and the people. At times, it almost feels like taking a small journey into Tibet. One of the most special parts of the experience was having the opportunity to meet and talk with a young monk who lives in the monastery, learning directly from him about monastic life and his daily routine. You also get to try traditional Tibetan butter tea and experience aspects of Tibetan culture that you would probably never discover on your own. What impressed me most was the quality and depth of the whole experience. Every question is answered, nothing feels rushed or scripted, and everything is explained with knowledge, passion and authenticity. I highly recommend The Tibetan Encounter to anyone who wants to truly understand Tibetan culture rather than simply visit a few monasteries. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Nepal.
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Da Zhang
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The staff here is the best I've met in Nepal. They are so helpful, responsive and professional. It's hard for first time tourist to navigate the inDrive bargain here but with their help everything just became much easier and quite transparent without surprises!! I would highly recommend anyone coming to Pokhara to book your tours, transportation and bus tickets here.
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Luca Zanoli
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We did the Full-Day Tibetan Cultural Tour with Thupten: it's a highly recommended experience, a must for anyone passing through Pokhara. Thupten gave us so much information and answered our thousand questions with passion and patience, even suggesting how to deepen our knowledge of Tibetan culture through books and culinary ideas we could look for even back in our own hometowns. He took us to the Tibetan settlements and told us the history of his people since the time of the diaspora. We learned how the Tibetan communities live here in Pokhara, and how the settlements are organized. We visited a Tibetan medicine doctor and were able to ask him a lot about the natural remedies he uses. We tasted typical dishes from Tibetan culinary tradition and also saw how carpets are made. What we enjoyed most out of all these experiences was delving into Buddhist philosophy, talking with the monks about their life in the monastery, and witnessing their prayers. Thupten was a passionate and knowledgeable guide, always ready to explain everything and a very good storyteller. He has a deep knowledge of Tibetan culture and Buddhist philosophy: to truly understand this culture, these mountains and this spirituality, spending the day with him was truly essential. Thank you so much!
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Sara
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I really enjoyed this tour and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the Tibetan community in Nepal. It was a very well-organized experience that offered a deeper understanding of Tibetan history, culture and daily life. Visiting the monasteries, talking to a young monk, learning about Buddhism, seeing a live sand mandala, trying traditional Tibetan food and hearing the stories behind the community made the day both interesting and meaningful. Thupten was very knowledgeable, friendly and happy to answer all my questions, which made the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for something beyond the typical tourist attractions and want to better understand an important part of Nepal’s cultural diversity, this tour is a wonderful choice. Thank you for such an insightful and memorable day. Tashi Delek! 🥰🙏🏼
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Jeroen Verdonk
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I got lots of information about Tibet, Boudism ,culture, food, habbits, buttertea, way of living, rituals, Tibitan cure and much much more. Thupten knows a lot and he has answers to all of your question. He takes good care during the tour and makes sure you will enjoy it at the maximum.
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bosko rankovic
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Mr.Thupten was amazing. He brought us closer to Tibetan culture through a series of nice explanations and demonstrations. It was really interesting to see how Tibetian tea is made,and then we got to taste it too. The guide is very educated , highly recommended
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Kathryn Bond
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An amazing, informative and well worthwhile morning with Thupten. Highly recommended.
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