Why Poon Hill Is Nepal's Most Popular Short Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is the classic introduction to Himalayan trekking — a 4–5 day, ~32km loop that climbs to the Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210m for one of the most famous sunrises in Nepal, with Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre lighting up across the horizon. It's beginner-friendly, has excellent teahouse facilities, and threads through rhododendron forest that blooms spectacularly in March and April. But "easy" doesn't mean "no gear" — the route includes the notorious 3,200 stone steps up to Ulleri, and the pre-dawn Poon Hill climb is cold. Here's exactly what to pack.
The Poon Hill Route and Permits
- Route: Nayapul → Tikhedhunga → Ulleri (3,200 steps) → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani → Ghandruk → Nayapul
- Max altitude: Poon Hill viewpoint 3,210m
- Distance / duration: ~32km / 4–5 days
- Permits: ACAP (NPR 3,000) + TIMS (NPR 2,000)
Do You Need a Sleeping Bag for Poon Hill?
Because Poon Hill stays below 3,300m and teahouses provide blankets, a heavy sleeping bag isn't strictly essential — but a light bag or liner adds comfort and hygiene.
- Optional: A 0°C to -5°C lightweight bag, or a warm liner if relying on teahouse blankets
- Recommended: A liner from our range keeps you warm and clean
If you want your own bag, see our sleeping bags.
Clothing for the Poon Hill Trek
The pre-dawn Poon Hill viewpoint climb is the coldest moment — be ready for it.
Layers
- 2 base layer tops + 1 thermal bottom for the cold sunrise
- Fleece mid layer
- Down jacket: A light 650 FP packable jacket is perfect for the sunrise — see our down jackets
- Warm hat and light gloves
Weather Protection
- Waterproof shell — see our windcheaters and rain jackets
- Lightweight rain trousers in spring/autumn
Footwear, Poles and Pack for the Stone Steps
- Boots: Mid-cut waterproof hiking boots for the steps and forest trail
- Trekking poles: Genuinely helpful on the 3,200 steps — both up to Ulleri and down to Tadapani (see our trekking poles)
- Pack: A 30–40L pack is ample for this short trek — see our trekking bags
Poon Hill Trek Quick Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Max altitude | 3,210m (Poon Hill) |
| Duration | 4–5 days |
| Stone steps to Ulleri | ~3,200 |
| Permits | ACAP NPR 3,000 + TIMS NPR 2,000 |
| Best season | Mar–Apr (rhododendrons), Oct–Nov |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many steps to Poon Hill?
The climb from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri involves around 3,200 stone steps, the toughest physical section of the trek. The final pre-dawn climb from Ghorepani to the Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m) is a further 45–60 minutes uphill.
Is the Poon Hill trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. Poon Hill is one of Nepal's most beginner-friendly treks — short, low-altitude, with excellent teahouses and no technical sections. Reasonable fitness for the stone steps and proper footwear are all you need.
Do you need permits for the Poon Hill trek?
Yes. You need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, NPR 3,000) and a TIMS card (NPR 2,000), both obtainable in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the best time for Poon Hill sunrise?
October–November offers the clearest sunrise views, while March–April adds blooming rhododendrons. Aim to be at the viewpoint 30–45 minutes before sunrise, wrapped in a down jacket — it's cold up there before the sun hits.
Get Your Poon Hill Gear at Himalayan Hardwear, Thamel
Light down jackets, liners, poles and waterproof shells for short treks — all at our store in Jyatha, Thamel, Kathmandu. Open daily 9am–8pm, or contact us on +977-1-5362200.
