I don’t wanna climb some 5 million steps to reach a mountain top! Or – I don’t have the skills and time to trek the Himalayan ranges! Sound familiar?
If you’re someone who repeats this mantra, hear this: What if I told you, you could stand face-to-face with the mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, watch the sky melt into shades of gold and crimson, and breathe in crisp Himalayan air, all of this without weeks of exhaustion and excruciating climbs?
Well, that’s the kind of place Poon Hill Circuit trek is. It’s the kind of adventure that proves you don’t need hardcore training to enjoy Himalayan beauty. In fact, this trek is built for people who believe trekking isn’t “their thing.”
Why the Poon Hill Circuit Trek is Different
When you think about the Himalayas, you instinctively imagine huge mountains, steep and hard climbs, and all of this. We have this concept that visiting the Himalayas can’t be easy, right? Wrong! Poon Hill trek flips this idea and proves that anyone can enjoy the Himalayas.
Here’s why:
- This trek is comparatively very short and sweet. Which usually takes 4 to 6 days, depending on your pace.
- It has moderate trails. Yes, there are stairs and climbs, but they’re spread out and manageable for beginners.
- There are no High-Altitude Risks. The highest point is around 3,210 meters, far below the altitude sickness danger zone.
- It also packs rich cultural encounters. Here, you’ll pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, giving you a taste of authentic Nepalese life.
- Despite the ease, it has world-class views. From the top of Poon Hill, you’ll see panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri.
This trek can also be a really good entry point for beginners.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Trek
1. Getting There
First, you’ll arrive at Pokhara (a lakeside city of Nepal). Now, from here you’ll venture out to Nayapul by car or any other ride, which will be the official starting point of your journey.
2. The Trail Itself
- Day 1: You’ll start from Nayapul to arrive in Tikhedhunga or Ulleri. This will obviously depend on your pace. On your way in this part of the trek, you can expect stone steps and charming villages.
- Day 2: Your objective now is to get from Ulleri to Ghorepani. This is an interesting part of the trek as you’ll pass through rhododendron forests that bloom brilliantly in spring.
- Day 3: Finally, by the third day, you’ll be ready to take the early morning hike to Poon Hill for the famous sunrise view. After which, you’ll then trek down to Tadapani.
- Day 4–5: Finally, you’ll descend gradually, looping back through Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village. Then, head back to Nayapul and end your journey.
That’s it. Within less than a week, you’ve conquered the Himalayas (well, at least a corner of them).
3. Accommodation and Food
Due to the ease of the trek, you’ll find a lot of facilities here as well (considering the remote wilderness of the Himalayas). Along the way, you’ll find Tea houses, basic but cozy lodges, and hearty meals like dal bhat, noodles, and momos. These businesses are usually run by the local families, which will give you the pure Himalayan experience.
What Makes It So Beginner-Friendly?
Okay, we’ve been bragging about how the Poon Hill trek is so easy and “beginner-friendly trek”. But what exactly makes it easy enough to call it the warm-up trek of Nepal? Let’s find out.
- To start it off, “flexibility”. A rare thing to think about the Himalayan treks, but it’s true, you can shorten or extend the trek, enjoy it as you want, all depending on your desires.
- It has a very good support system. Well, as you can imagine, an easy trek is also easy for the local guides and porters. They are available all over the place if you want extra help.
- Due to low altitude and the nature of the trek, it has a relatively safe environment. Another fact is that it’s popular (but not overcrowded), and the trail feels safe yet serene.
- And to put it frankly, nowhere else will you find world-class mountain views in such a short, accessible trek.
Tips to Make Your Experience Better
Lastly, yes, the trek is short and easy all but a trek is still a trek.
- The first tip is to train a little, not a lot, but some basic training will definitely help you on your journey.
- Another thing you can do is pack wisely. Things like extra layers, fire starters, or maybe a machete can come in handy.
- Also, you can wake up early in the morning to enjoy the Sunrise from Poon Hill. And the earlier you start, the better your view (and fewer crowds).
- Lastly, take it slow, take breaks whenever you need, and enjoy the views. Talk to locals. Sip tea. Because this trek isn’t a race; it’s an experience.
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re one of those who dream of trekking in Nepal but hold yourself back, wait no longer, as Mosaic Adventure is here to take your hand. These guys are some of the best in the business.
