Annapurna Sunrise Trek

9 Days
Guest: 2+

Overview

Bottom of FormArriving at Poon Hill before dawn, to watch the sun slowly illuminate an expanse of majestic peaks stretching from the Annapurna range to Dhaulagiri, will undoubtedly be recalled as one of the most memorable experiences of your life. The vista from Poon Hill is considered on of the best in the Himalayas, if not one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the world. This is a moderate hike, the main challenge being the 3000 stone steps on the hill beneath the village of Ulleri. We’ll pass terraced farmlands and waterfalls on our way to Ghorepani, accompanied by the towering peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After our unforgettable morning at Poon Hill, we descend to the beautiful Ghandruk village, Nepal’s second largest Gurung settlement, before our return to Pokhara. This is a moderate trek that includes a view into real Nepali culture, invigorating climbs, and some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.

Trip Note:

While the stamina needed for a longer journey through the Annapurnas is not a requirement on this shorter trek, there are still challenges in store for the average hiker. Climbing the 3000 steps to Ulleri will definitely prove to be arduous, though there will be many places to stop and catch your breath along the way. Autumn (Sep – Nov) and Spring (Mar – May) are the best seasons to trek in the Annapurnas, with warm sunny days and crisp cold nights. Winter (Dec – Feb) can offer great visibility during the days, but may be too cold for some and there is a chance some routes may be impassible due to snow. We don’t recommend doing this trek during the summer monsoon (Jun – Jul), as the chances of missing out on the amazing view from Poon Hill due to rain would surely be a shame.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.

You will be greeted at the airport by a representative from Outdoor Expeditions and transported to your hotel. We’ll spend the day exploring several of the city’s most famous cultural landmarks like the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bhagamati and Bouddhanath, Nepal’s largest and most revered Buddhist stupa. In the evening we’ll meet with your trekking guide and team members for a trip briefing and preparations for the journey.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 823m/2700ft: 6 hours drive

We’ll depart Kathmandu this morning by private van or bus for Pokhara. The scenic drive will take us through scenic countryside to the famous lakeside city where we can relax for the evening and savor the spectacular mountain views over Fewa Lake.

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Naypul. Trek to Ulleri 2050m/6725ft: 1 hour drive and 6 hour walk.

A short drive from Pokhara will take us to the trailhead at Nayapul, from where we ascend gradually along the banks of the Modhi Khola, through subtropical forest and farmlands to Ulleri.

Day 4: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani 2750m/9020ft: 4 – 5 hours walk.

Continuing our ascent along the Modhi Khola, lush scenery surrounds us as we pass several hillside villages, stopping to rest in Ghorepani.

Day 5: Trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Tadapani 2700m/8860ft: 5 – 6 hours walk.

An early morning wake up and vigorous climb to the top of Poon Hill awaits, accompanied by some of the most spectacular scenery in the Annapurnas. From Poon Hill we’ll watch the sun rise over a maze of peaks spanning from Annapurna to Dhaulagiri. After enjoying the amazing view, we’ll cross over a nearby ridge, descending passed a series of waterfalls to Tadapani.

Day 6: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk 1940m/6360ft: 3 – 4 hours walk.

A steep descent through thick forests of rhododendrons from Tadapani will be marked with excellent views of Machhapuchare, Annapurna south, and Huilchuli. We’ll arrive in Nepal’s second largest Gurung settlement, Ghandruk, a colorful village home to a bustling bazaar and cultural museum.

Day 7: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara: 4 hours walk and 1 hour drive.

We make a long descent today through terraced farmlands, villages, and stands of bamboo and rhododendron. Descending along a staircase-like series of stone slabs to Birethanti, we stop to rest before continuing on to Nayapul, the last walking stop on our journey. From here we board our bus for the hour drive to Pokhara.

Day 8: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 6 hour drive

After breakfast, we’ll board our bus bound for Kathmandu, arriving in the evening in time to relax in Thamel and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Day 09: Depart Kathmandu

Take care of any last minute shopping or sightseeing as time permits. You’ll be picked up at your hotel three hours prior to your departure flight. Thanks for traveling with Outdoor Expeditions. Farewell and Namaste.

Package Includes:

Airport pickup and drop off in private vehicle
Hotel with included breakfast in Kathmandu
Private transportation and government licensed guide while sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
Government licensed, experienced trekking guide and porters during trekking
Insurance for trekking crew (guides and porters)
All required equipment for trekking crew, kitchen tent, dining tent, and toilet tent
Accommodations in hotels, tea-houses, or camps during trekking
Three daily meals while trekking
All required conservation fees and trekking permits (TIMS)

Package Excludes:

Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu
Entrance fees for attractions (UNESCO world heritage sites, museums, etc.) during sightseeing in Kathmandu
Personal insurance or cost of air rescue in the event of emergency
Air ticket to and from Nepal from your point of origin
Visa fee for entry into Nepal
Personal expenses (souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, hygiene items, staff tips, etc.)