All treksAnnapurna region

Annapurna Base Camp Via Poon Hill Trek

A longer Annapurna Sanctuary trek that adds the Poon Hill sunrise ridge before heading to base camp.

Duration

12 days

Difficulty

Moderate-Challenging

Max altitude

4,130 m at Annapurna Base Camp

Best months

Mar-May, Sep-Nov

Route overview

This version joins two of the Annapurna region's best-loved experiences: the sunrise ridge at Poon Hill and the high amphitheater of Annapurna Base Camp.

Trail sequence

Pokhara

Ghorepani

Poon Hill

Tadapani

Chhomrong

Deurali

Annapurna Base Camp

Jhinu

Pokhara

Highlights

Poon Hill sunrise before the sanctuary approach

Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Bamboo trail villages

Machapuchare Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp

A varied route with forest, ridge, river, and alpine sections

Preparation

Build up to 4-6 hour hikes with a loaded daypack

Practice steady uphill pacing and stair climbs

Carry tested layers, rain protection, and broken-in boots

Plan an acclimatization buffer around high-altitude days

Day-wise itinerary

Pokhara to Tikhedhunga

1,540 m

Drive to the trailhead and start through hill settlements.

Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

2,860 m

Climb through forest to the Poon Hill base village.

Poon Hill sunrise and trek to Tadapani

3,210 m

Catch sunrise, then follow ridge forest toward Tadapani.

Tadapani to Chhomrong

2,170 m

Enter the sanctuary approach with views toward Annapurna South.

Chhomrong to Bamboo

2,310 m

Descend to the river and climb through bamboo forest.

Bamboo to Deurali

3,200 m

Move into the narrower high valley.

Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp

4,130 m

Pass Machapuchare Base Camp and reach the sanctuary.

Base camp sunrise and descend to Bamboo

2,310 m

Enjoy early light and descend for easier breathing.

Bamboo to Jhinu

1,780 m

Return through Chhomrong and relax on the lower trail.

Jhinu to Pokhara

820 m

Walk out to the road head and drive back to Pokhara.

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