Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill – 15 Days
A Himalayan adventure through breathtaking landscapes and timeless mountain cultures
Embark on one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking experiences, a 15-day journey that takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region, where snow-capped giants rise above ancient forests and traditional villages. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill is more than just a hike, it’s a full immersion into the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Himalayas.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Hille, followed by a gradual ascent through terraced fields and vibrant hill communities. Early highlights include the charming villages of Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, leading to Ghorepani; your gateway to Poon Hill. At 3,210 meters, Poon Hill offers one of the most unforgettable sunrise views in the Himalayas, with golden light spilling across the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail).
As the trail winds deeper into the mountains, you’ll pass through lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and alpine meadows. Each village along the way, Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali, welcomes you with warm hospitality and a glimpse into the lives of the Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tamang people. Their traditions, language, and connection to the land add a rich cultural layer to the trek.
The final stretch, through Machapuchare Base Camp, to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters) is a dramatic ascent into a natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Here, you’ll stand face-to-face with Annapurna I (8,091 meters), the 10th highest mountain in the world, and feel the raw power of the mountains all around you. The base camp lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, a protected region teeming with biodiversity, from Himalayan Tahr and musk deer to rare bird species.
And just when you think the adventure is over, the trail leads you to Jhinu Danda, where natural hot springs offer a soothing reward for your efforts, a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the journey.
Whether you’re chasing panoramic views, cultural encounters, or the thrill of high-altitude trekking, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill delivers an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Trek Cost Details (2025 & 2026)
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Group Size – Cost PP (USD)
2 –
3-4 –
5-6 –
7-8 –
9-10 –
11+ –
$1,110
$1,080
$1,050
$1,030
$980
Contact Us
Notes
• If you are a solo traveller, please contact us for prices and further details.
• Uses tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu, please contact us for prices using domestic flight from Pokhara.
• We do not merge travellers into mixed groups — your trek is private and personalised.
• Need a trek to fit your budget? Contact us — we’re happy to help tailor your experience.
Highlights
- Panoramic sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210m) over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare
- Trek to two Base Camps, Annapurna (4,130m) and Machapuchare (3,700m), surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks
- Scenic trail through traditional villages such as Ghorepani, Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and Landruk
- Cultural immersion with Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tamang communities
- Diverse landscapes from rhododendron forests and bamboo groves to alpine meadows and glaciers
- Wildlife sightings in the Annapurna Conservation Area, including Himalayan Tahr and musk deer
- Relaxing soak in natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda after the trek
- Moderate trekking challenge suitable for adventurous hikers
- Stunning views of Annapurna I (8,091m), the 10th highest mountain in the world
- Easy access from Pokhara, Nepal’s gateway to the Annapurna region
Itinerary
Arrival & Preparation:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,355m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport our staff will greet you and escort you to your 3* hotel in Kathmandu. Depending upon your arrival time you may spend free time visiting nearby cultural sites, shopping or simply resting at your hotel. Overnight 3★ hotel. Driving 1 hour.
Day 2: Trek preparations in Kathmandu
Today we will be finalising your trek preparations and permits. You will have the day to explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu and do any last-minute gear shopping. In the early evening you will have a trek briefing with your guide. Overnight 3★ hotel.
Journey to the Trailhead:
Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara (827m)
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive westward in a luxury tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara, winding through river valleys and terraced hillsides. Upon arrival, settle into your lakeside hotel and soak in views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), and the Annapurna range, shimmering above Phewa Lake, and explore the vibrant streets lined with cafés, shops, and temples. Overnight 3★ hotel. Driving 7-8 hours.
Day 4: Pokhara to Hille and Trek to Ulleri (2,050m)
Your Himalayan adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Hille, a gateway village to several iconic treks including Annapurna Base Camp, Khopra Danda, and Mardi Himal. After checking permits at Birethanti, we begin our trek through lush hills and terraced fields. The trail gradually ascends to Ulleri, a charming Magar village perched at 2,050m. Expect sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and a warm welcome. Overnight Tea house. Driving 2hrs, Trekking 3-4 hours.
Forests & Villages of the Lower Annapurna:
Day 5: Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,880m)
Today’s trek climbs steadily through ancient rhododendron forests, Nepal’s national flower, which bloom in brilliant reds and pinks during spring. As we gain altitude, the air cools and the views open up. We reach Ghorepani, a Gurung and Magar village, which sits beneath the ridges and offers your first close-up views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. The village is a cultural crossroads, where traditional stone houses and Buddhist prayer flags create a peaceful mountain atmosphere. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 6-7 hours.
Day 6: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210m) and Trek to Tadapani (2,630m)
We rise before dawn to hike to Poon Hill, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Himalayas. As the sun rises, the peaks of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli glow in golden light; an unforgettable moment. After breakfast back in Ghorepani, we trek to Tadapani through enchanting forests filled with birdsong and blooming rhododendrons. Tadapani offers sweeping views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare, and is often visited by flocks of colourful Himalayan birds. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 6-7 hours.
Day 7: Tadapani to Chhomrong (2,170m)
From Tadapani we descend through redwood and oak forests and after an hour and a half of hiking we reach the village of Chuhile. Along the way we can see Annapurna South, Himchuli and Machapuchare peaks. From there the trail continues through corn and potato fields and we cross the bridge over the Kimrung River. The trail then climbs uphill, untill we gradually ascend and reach Chhomrong village, a beautiful Gurung village known for its colourful prayer flags and panoramic mountain views. Chhomrong is the last permanent settlement before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary and offers a spectacular view of Machapuchare’s sacred summit. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Into the Annapurna Sanctuary:
Day 8: Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m)
We begin with a descent to the Chhomrong Khola, crossing a suspension bridge before climbing to Sinuwa. The trail then winds through peaceful forests of bamboo and oak, to Bamboo, a quiet village nestled in the valley. Keep an eye out for langurs and exotic birds in the trees as you settle into your teahouse for the night. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Day 9: Bamboo to Deurali (3,230m)
Today’s trek leads through thick bamboo forests and past the Himalaya Hotel. As the forest opens up, dramatic cliffs and waterfalls come into view. A steep climb brings us to Hinku Cave, once used by early mountaineers as a shelter. The final stretch to Deurali is breathtaking, with views of the glacial river below and towering rock faces above, and cascading waterfalls lining the trail. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 3-4 hours.
Day 10: Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m)
Today marks one of the most exhilarating days of the trek as we ascend into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail begins with a steady climb through alpine terrain, where the forest thins and the landscape becomes more rugged and dramatic. After 2–3 hours, we reach Machhapuchhre Base Camp, nestled beneath the sacred, unclimbed peak of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). From here, the views are truly spectacular; Annapurna South (7220m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Gandharva Chuli (6248m), Annapurna Fang (Haraha Shikhar)(7647m), and Annapurna III (7555m) rise around you.
From Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), the trail climbs steadily through alpine terrain, following the curve of the valley as towering peaks close in. After 2 hours, you’ll reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), surrounded by a dramatic 360° amphitheatre of giants, Annapurna I, South, Hiunchuli, and the ever-striking Machhapuchhre behind you. This a place of awe and reflection, where we admire and absorb the sheer scale and beauty of the mountains. Here we will stay the night in A lodge, surrounded by stars and snow. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Descent from Base Camp:
Day 11: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m)
We start the day early to catch the sunrise over Annapurna I (8,091m), the highest peak in the region. From the base camp, you’ll also see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna III, Tent Peak, and Singu Chuli, an impressive panorama of snow-covered Himalayan giants. After breakfast, we begin our descent through the Modi Khola Valley. The trail retraces our steps through alpine meadows and forests, offering fresh views of the terrain we climbed just days before. The walk is steady and scenic, with plenty of chances to take in the changing landscape. We end the day in Bamboo, a quiet village surrounded by dense forest. It’s a peaceful spot to rest and recharge before continuing the journey down. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 6-7 hours.
Day 12: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,780m)
We begin with a climb through redwood and bamboo forests to Khudi Ghar. The trail zigzags through dense forest, offering breathtaking glimpses of Himalayan giants Machhapuchhare, Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Annapurna III. We reach Upper Sinuwa, perched above the valley, and begin a descent through terraced fields of potatoes and corn to Chomrong Khola, crossing a suspension bridge before ascending stone steps through rice terraces to Chomrong village. The final stretch leads downhill through more rice fields to Jhinu Danda where we will spend the night, a village known for its riverside hot springs. A short 15-minute walk takes us to the warm mineral pools, an unforgettable way to unwind. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 6-7 hours.
Day 13: Jhinu Danda to Pokhara (820m)
A short thirty minutes morning walk over a suspension bridge, brings us to the road where our private vehicle awaits. The drive back to Pokhara winds through scenic countryside, offering views of rivers, terraced fields, and distant peaks. Back in Pokhara, enjoy the vibrant lakeside atmosphere and celebrate your journey. Overnight 3* Hotel. Trekking 30 minutes. Driving 3 hours.
Farewell and Departure:
Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,355m)
Today we will take a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, by luxury tourist bus. The journey follows the Prithvi Highway, passing through picturesque hills, and countryside villages. The rest of the day is free for souvenir shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing. In the evening, we invite you as our guest to enjoy a traditional Nepali farewell dinner together with our team in Kathmandu. A great way to celebrate your incredible trek through the Annapurna region. Overnight in 3* hotel. Driving 7-8 hours.
Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll through the city or a short visit to a nearby temple. Our staff will escort you to the airport for your onward journey. Or, if you’re keen to explore more of Nepal’s wonders, we can help to arrange a custom extension to your trip.
What’s Included in your Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Your adventure is thoughtfully designed to include everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and culturally rich experience — from airport transfers to farewell dinner.
- All hotel–airport transfers as per itinerary
- Kathmandu 3★ hotel – 3 nights, bed & breakfast
- Pokhara 3★ hotel – 2 nights, bed & breakfast
- Round-trip Luxury Tourist bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara, back to Kathmandu
- Private transport from Pokhara to Hille
- Private transport from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara
- 9 nights tea-house accommodation on trek
- Three meals a day during trek: breakfast, lunch, dinner, with tea or coffee
- Fully licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (salary, food, equipment, insurance included). Assistant guide provided for every six trekkers
- Porter service (one porter per two trekkers; salary, food, insurance included)
- All necessary national park fees, permits, and paperwork
- Local and government taxes
- First aid kit available during trek
- Emergency helicopter arrangement (cost covered by your insurance)
- Complimentary trekking map to keep
- Complimentary trekking duffle bag to keep
- Complimentary loan of sleeping bag during trek
- Farewell dinner
What’s Not Included
While we’ve covered the essentials, here are a few things you’ll need to arrange separately:
- International airfare and arrival/departure taxes to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fees upon arrival (please bring accurate USD cash and two passport-size photos)
- Personal travel/trekking insurance — You must have insurance, covering trekking up to 4,130m and rescue in case of emergency
- Additional expenses in tea-houses (Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, laundry, bottled drinks, speciality coffees (espresso, latte etc), snacks, bar bills, phone calls, etc.)
- Additional activities like paragliding, zip-lining, or extra sightseeing at Pokhara.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
- Extra night(s) accommodation in Kathmandu if returning early from the trek or late departure.
- Tips for guides and porters
