Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an adventurous trip offering you a complete trekking experience of Annapurna region. Regarded as one of the classic walks of the Himalayas the trek is a wonder in itself. The walk takes you to the Annapurna Base Camp nestled on a high glacial basin at an altitude of over 4130 meters surrounded by rings of mountains. The region regarded as the “Abode of Gods” is believed to be home to several deities, of Hinduism and Buddhism as well as older animistic gods.
Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek start with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. Nayapul is the starting point of various treks of the region. From Nayapul traversing across lush woodlands proceed towards the village of Ulleri. Next, move towards Ghorepani, an ancient stop along the route for the caravan of horses and mules. Thereafter head towards Poon Hill, the renowned vantage point of the Annapurna region. From Poon Hill witness incredible views up to Mustang, Pokhara, and spectacular views of more than 20 of the highest mountains in the region. After witnessing the grand views head towards the settlement of Tadapani.
From Tadapani traversing through the deep wilderness of rhododendron forests, hemlock, fir, and blue pine cross various settlements and reach the village of Sinuwa. From Sinuwa, head towards Deurali. At Deurali witness wide views of the landscapes. The river networks, high sheer rocky cliffs, and waterfalls across the hills getting a different perspective of the region. Then following the trail, through riverbeds on rugged mountain country, you will eventually reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Views of Mt. Machhapuchhre
From Machhapuchhre Base Camp witnessing striking views of the majestic Mt. Machhapuchhre. Along with adjacent snow-capped peaks and head towards Annapurna Base Camp. This section of the trail is filled with wonders of nature. Traversing along high alpine pasture lands following the stream reach the Annapurna Base Camp. At the base camp, you will be surrounded by rings of mountains. Dhaulagiri to Annapurna to Machhapuchhre: Dhaulagiri I ( 8167m), Tukuche (6920m), Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and Tarke Kang (7193m).
The following day retrace your steps across the deep wilderness and reach Sinuwa. Next following the trail towards Jhinu Danda and eventually to Siwai. From here head on a short drive towards Pokhara marking the end of your adventure.
Entry and Permits:
The following permits are required for trekking to Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp:
- ACAP entry permit fee for foreigners: 3,000 NPR (Approx. US $30)
- ACAP entry permit fee for SAARC nationals: 200 NPR
TIMS Permit:
- NRP 1,000 per person for organized treks through an agency
- NRP 2,000 per person for independent trekkers (going without a guide or porter)
Note: All the trekking permits are handled by the Alpine Club of Himalaya.
Meals and drinking water:
Along the Annapurna Region Trek, you will be provided with various Nepali, and Tibetan ethnic cuisines, and varieties of continental as well as western meals. The region has several tea-house along the trail and is run by local inhabitants providing basic and minimal facilities to luxury ones. You will have an opportunity to taste various cuisines which you will miss it most of trekking trails of Nepal.
Annapurna Region is a plastic-free zone and has banned the use of bottled Mineral Water. You will find drinking water taps along the trekking trail. However, the water comes from untreated natural supplies, so avoid drinking directly. Instead, refill your water bottle with boiled water or cold, filtered water from any of the teahouses.
If you buy a water purification tablet, chlorine drops or utilize SODIS (sunlight assisted) filtration procedures for further assurance, saving money, and reducing plastic pollution.
Accommodation:
Tourist-friendly hotels, lodges, and local accommodations are available on trekking trails and, providing with basic accommodation to luxury and grandeur ones. The trail offers a variety of luxury hotels and teahouses to suit your budget, all providing comfortable beds with pillows, electric blankets, hot and cold showers, free WIFI, and many more amenities.
Teahouse along Annapurna region provides you with hot shower, western attached bathrooms and the rooms mostly include twin sharing beds as well as a single bed, with hygienic and clean atmosphere, good mattresses, a pillow, and blankets.
Campsites are also available along the trail providing a special opportunity for campers to sleep under the stars.
Best Time to Visit?
The best season for trekking in Annapurna Region is during autumn and spring.
The months of September, October, November, March, April, and May are the best time to visit. These months are better in terms of visibility and climate conditions.
During the autumn season, the months of September, October, and November are one of the best times for trekking in this region, as the weather is clear bringing great visibility of the endless mountain ranges and lush green forest with warm temperatures, the nights are clear and is a perfect opportunity for stargazing.
The spring season of March, April, and May is also the best time to visit the Annapurna Region, the end of the winter season brings a change in the region, varieties of colorful blooming trees of the sub-alpine forest, high green pasture lands covered with wildflowers, mild temperatures, and clear weather. In this season you will witness herds of sheep and yaks grazing in the green high lands.
Monsoon season is not favorable as the weather gets harsh and it’s hard to get around the country, with frequent rainstorms and landslides. So, monsoon season is mostly avoided by trekkers.
In winter, Annapurna Region receives high snowfall covering most of trails and making it impossible to travel for this reason.
Travel Insurance:
All clients participating in any activity must have travel insurance. An insurance plan covers personal injury, death, hospital expenditures, repatriation fees, helicopter rescue, and any other disease. We highly advise you to acquire a comprehensive insurance plan from a trustworthy insurance company.
Passport and Visa:
Every client must have a valid passport from the return date with a 6 months prior validity by the Nepalese consulate in your country or immigration office at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
