Poon Hill,Nepal

• Poon Hill Viewpoint — iconic sunrise panorama over Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail) and surrounding peaks
• Ghorepani Village — traditional mountain village and common overnight stop for trekkers
• Rhododendron Forests — spectacular blooms in spring (March–April)
• Terraced villages and Gurung culture — local homestays, cuisine and cultural interaction
• Sea of Clouds — morning inversion layers creating dramatic cloud seas below the peaks

• Panoramic sunrise and mountain silhouette photography opportunities
• Short, accessible trek suitable for many fitness levels (commonly 3–5 days round trip from Pokhara)
• High biodiversity in the Annapurna Conservation Area (birds, native plants)
• Close proximity to other Annapurna-region treks (Ghorepani–Ghandruk, Annapurna Base Camp routes)
• Community-run teahouses and lodges that support local economies

• Early-morning sunrise hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint (popular at 4:30–6:30 AM)
• Multi-day trekking (typical loop: Nayapul → Tikhedhunga/Ulleri → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Ghandruk → Nayapul)
• Photography and landscape observation (sunrise, sea of clouds)
• Short nature walks and birdwatching in rhododendron forests
• Cultural experiences and homestays in Gurung villages

Autumn (September–November) and Spring (March–May) are the best seasons for clear mountain views and stable weather. Winter (December–February) is colder with possible snow but can still offer clear skies; monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and limited visibility.

Mountain weather is variable: cold mornings at the viewpoint (near or below freezing in winter), mild daytime temperatures on the trail in shoulder seasons. Expect rapid changes; mornings are the clearest for views.

Nearest major hub: Pokhara (2–3 hour drive to trailheads such as Nayapul). Common trekking route begins at Nayapul or Tikhedhunga and reaches Ghorepani before the short pre-dawn climb to Poon Hill. Pokhara is accessible by daily domestic flights from Kathmandu and by road. Trails are well-established stone steps and paths—suitable for fit beginners but expect steep sections (e.g., Ulleri stairs).

Typical Poon Hill treks are 3–5 days from Pokhara (including transfers). Combine with Ghandruk or extend into longer Annapurna treks if desired.

Layered clothing (base layer, insulating mid-layer, windproof/waterproof outer layer), warm hat and gloves for early-morning viewpoint, sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles (helpful on steep steps), headlamp for pre-dawn hikes, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Local foods to try: dal bhat, momos, local thukpa and noodle soups, tea/ginger tea at teahouses. Souvenirs: hand-knit woolens (hats, gloves, scarves), traditional Gurung handicrafts, prayer flags, small Thangka paintings and locally made jewelry. Purchasing from village shops supports local communities.