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Khopra Poon Hill Trek - 15 Days

khopra poon hill trekking
khopra poon hill trek
Duration15 Days
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude3,660 meters
ActivitiesTrekking
Group Size1-20
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Best TimeSpring And Autumn

15 Days Khopra Poon Hill Trek – A Hidden Gem for Trekking in Annapurna Region

Begin your adventure with the Khopra Poon Hill Trek, a breathtaking 15-day trek with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Ideal for travelers who are always hungry for adventure and wish to embrace the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal, this trek promises both visual splendor and immersive experiences. The 15 Days Khopra Poon Hill Trek is gaining popularity as one of the best off-the-beaten-path journeys for trekking in Nepal.

Located in the heart of the Annapurna region, the Khopra Poon Hill Trek is a hidden gem that combines the majestic Himalayan landscape with a unique cultural immersion. This trail is significantly less crowded than the more popular Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks, offering peace and serenity that allow trekkers to truly connect with nature. The route passes through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, terraced farmlands, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages, giving trekkers a rich blend of natural beauty and local lifestyle.

One of the biggest highlights of the Khopra Poon Hill Trek is the early morning hike to Poon Hill. This iconic viewpoint is famous for its panoramic sunrise over the Himalayan giants such as Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Nilgiri. As the first rays of sunlight hit the snow-capped peaks, the mountains seem to glow in gold, creating a surreal and unforgettable moment. It’s a dream come true for photographers and nature lovers alike.

What sets the Khopra Poon Hill Trek apart from other treks in the Annapurna region is the tranquil setting and the opportunity to discover the less explored Khopra Ridge. The ridge offers one of the most stunning vantage points in the Himalayas, with uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks. In addition, you can explore the sacred Khayer Lake, located at the foot of Annapurna South. This serene alpine lake adds a mystical touch to your journey and is considered spiritually significant by locals.

Unlike high-altitude treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which demand rigorous physical preparation and can be challenging due to altitude sickness, the Khopra Poon Hill Trek is a moderate-level trek. It is suitable for a wide range of trekkers—from beginners to seasoned hikers—making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or solo adventurers. Its relatively lower altitude and gradual ascent ensure a comfortable yet adventurous experience without compromising the grandeur of Himalayan views.

Culturally, the trek allows you to engage with the warm hospitality of local villagers. The teahouses along the trail provide cozy accommodations and a chance to savor authentic Nepali cuisine. Whether it's sipping hot ginger tea in a mountain lodge or listening to local folklore by the fireplace, every moment adds depth to your trekking experience.

For anyone looking to experience trekking in Annapurna without the crowds but with all the rewards—panoramic mountain views, cultural richness, and natural beauty—the Khopra Poon Hill Trek is a perfect match. This 15-day journey offers the right mix of adventure, comfort, and solitude.

Don’t just follow the crowd—venture into Nepal’s quieter trails and unlock a side of the Himalayas few get to see. The 15 Days Khopra Poon Hill Trek is your gateway to unforgettable memories, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the timeless charm of rural Nepal. Discover why trekking in Nepal continues to captivate travelers from around the world, and let this journey be the highlight of your Himalayan adventure.

Trip Highlights

  • Poon Hill Sunrise Viewpoint: One of the main attractions is Poon Hill, located at an elevation of 3,210 meters (10,531 feet). It offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, creating a mesmerizing landscape of snow-capped peaks in golden light.
  • Scenic Diversity: The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendrons and pine forests to terraced fields and alpine meadows. This variety allows trekkers to experience the region's rich biodiversity, especially in spring when the rhododendrons bloom.
  • Cultural Encounters: Trekking through traditional Gurung and Magar villages provides an opportunity to engage with local cultures. Visitors can experience warm hospitality, sample local cuisine, and learn about the customs and lifestyles of the communities.
  • Less Crowded Trails: Compared to the Annapurna Base Camp trekking, the Khopra Poon Hill route sees fewer trekkers, allowing for a more serene experience in nature. This peace enhances the sense of adventure and connection to the landscape.
  • Natural Hot Springs: The trek includes visiting Tadapani, where you can relax in natural hot springs after a long day of hiking. It’s a perfect way to unwind and soothe your muscles.
  • Wildlife Sightings: The region is home to various wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, pheasants, and monkeys. Look for these animals as you traverse the trails.
  • Photogenic Views: Apart from the spectacular views from Poon Hill, the trek offers numerous vantage points to capture stunning photographs of the Annapurna range and the surrounding landscapes.

The Khopra Poon Hill Trek offers a quieter, more serene experience compared to the famous Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, with additional cultural encounters and hidden gems like Khayer Lake. Both treks feature stunning sunrise views, but Khopra provides a less crowded and more peaceful adventure.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all

 

Following a hearty breakfast, head to Nayapul, the first place of your trekking excursion. This journey is not only adventurous, as it takes you through beautiful hills, terraced farms, and colorful ethnic settlements. Get the feeling growing in you a little more as you get closer to the destination that is ready for you.

Max Altitude: 1,070 m Duration: 1.5 hours

Commence your journey in the attractive low hills with abundant local cultures. During the walk, witness the customary level-step farming practices and the landscape of mountains with oval-shaped wooden huts. Reach Tikhedhunga, a beautiful village where you will relax and rest for an adventuresome trip ahead. Get ready to experience the warmth of the people as you retire for the day.

Max Altitude: 1,540 m Duration: 4-5 hours

Climb higher into the beautiful woods of rhododendrons filled with the sweet smell of blossoming flowers. The trek towards Ghorepani consists of increasingly impressive sights as you go higher up. Ghorepani is also famous for its incredible views; therefore, you can rest there for the night. Before you prepare for the spectacular sunrise the next day, take time to appreciate the day’s activities.

Max Altitude: 2,850 m Duration: 6-7 hours

Get up early enough to enjoy the fascinating sunrise at Poon Hill, where the Annapurna range sparkles with the first rays of the sun. After enjoying the captivating sights, it's time to continue your trek towards Tadapani, a holiday resort in mountaineering scenery. The path goes through thick forests, providing calm and quiet hours. Get to Tadapani in the evening to settle and prepare for the following day.

Max Altitude: 2,630 m Duration: 5-6 hours

Explore and reach Dobato—a quieter yet equally beautiful mountain location. Unlike the crowded paths, the environment is calm, which makes it possible to bond with nature more fully. As you walk, appreciate the picturesque hills and valleys around you. Reach your goal and enjoy every minute of peace this enchanting place offers.

Max Altitude: 3,400 m Duration: 4-5 hours

Head towards Khopra Danda, the place where clear views of the Annapurna range, especially the great Dhaulagiri, can be cherished. The trek comprises hard ascent and beautiful views; thus, every step taken is a reward. On reaching there, allow yourself a few minutes to appreciate the view. Tonight, this astonishing viewpoint shall be your delightful abode.

Max Altitude: 3,660 m Duration: 5-6 hours

If weather permits, experience the charm of Khopra Danda with an additional day hike to the mesmerizing Khayer Lake. The hike boasts stunning scenery and the opportunity to appreciate the area's nature. Enjoy the day, experiencing the expedition while creating everlasting memories in these tranquil surroundings. Finally, return to Khopra Danda to enjoy and contemplate the events of that day.

Max Altitude: 4,600 m Duration: 6-7 hours

Following your descent from Khopra Danda, trek towards Swanta Village. Here, the local way of life flourishes among beautiful rice fields. Embrace the warmth of the locals, who are eager to entertain you. This village is a perfect introduction to the native Nepali culture, adding value to your trekking experience. Enjoy these peaceful surroundings with magnificent green scenery.

Max Altitude: 2,200 m Duration: 5-6 hours

Continue your adventure by hiking to Chitre, a gorgeous village in the middle of lush rice paddies and rolling hills. This trail takes you through green scenery that resembles a postcard, with beautiful sights greeting you at almost every turn. After reaching the village, consider spending time appreciating its peaceful beauty. Get ready for an easy night in such a nice place.

Max Altitude: 2,310 m Duration: 3-4 hours

Retrace your steps to Ghorepani for an overnight stay after enjoying the splendid views you are used to. On the trek back, you get a final glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region. Once you reach this place, dig into some delicious local cuisine and engage with other trekkers. Go to bed that night, recounting your experiences and memories while in the mountains.

Max Altitude: 2,850 m Duration: 4-5 hours

Hiking to Hile is another lovely place to relax after several days of trekking. The path goes down through deep forests and terraced fields, which is quite soothing. Sit back, relax, and give the regions a break for now. Arriving in Hille, relax, and finally get ready for a journey back down to Nayapul.

Max Altitude: 1,480 m Duration: 5-6 hours

Complete your hiking expedition with a beautiful drive back to Nayapul, where you will reminisce about the trip. Relish the scenic beauty for the last time as you pass through picturesque terrains. This last trail gives you the pleasure of the mesmerizing sights you have seen. Reach Nayapul and rejoice in the success of your trekking odyssey.

Max Altitude: 1,070 m Duration: 5-6 hours

Conclude your trekking trip with a picturesque drive back to Pokhara, where you can relax after travel. Appreciate the beautiful scenery and the lively culture around the townspeople during the journey. On reaching Pokhara, you should give yourself a slight pause to consider the beautiful moments you’ve spent up in the hills. Make yourself comfortable in the lakeside settlements and have an enjoyable time.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Enjoy a much-deserved break and wander about Pokhara, a lakeside wonder. Check out local sites, eat great food, and enjoy the fresh air. You can either stay by the lake and do nothing or shop in the crowded markets; this day is dedicated to you. Regain your energy and savor the serenity of this beautiful city before you leave.

As your journey ends, withdraw from Pokhara with fond memories of the beauty of the Himalayas. Leave this beautiful place while hoping for many more trips and adventures. Spend a minute remembering the moments that have made your journey worthwhile. Return motivated by the scenic beauty of the mountains and the warmth of the people’s culture.

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Cost Details
Included
  • Accommodation: Comfortable teahouses or lodges will be available during the trek for accommodation.
  • Meals: All three meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are served and consist of local and continental cuisines.
  • Permits: This package includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card for convenience.
  • Transportation: The cost of ground transportation services from Pokhara to Nayapul (the starting point) and back to Pokhora is also included.
  • Guide and Porter: The package includes the services of an experienced trekking guide and a porter to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
  • First Aid Kit: For emergencies, the guide carries a first-aid kit.
  • Sleeping Bags and Down Jackets: If necessary, the package will also provide sleeping bags and down jackets. 

This exhaustive list gets you ready for your Khopra Poon Hill Trek, and the trekking company provides most of the essentials.

Excluded
  • International Flights: The package does not include round-trip flights to Nepal and any foreign country.
  • Travel Insurance: Indemnity for injuries sustained while engaging in high-altitude trekking or the costs of being airlifted to safer medical centers is not included.
  • Visa Fees: Visa fees for entering Nepal for tourism or business purposes is excluded.
  • Personal Expenses: Nibbles, drinks, and keepsakes will not be catered for.
  • Trekking Equipment: Bring hiking equipment, boots, thermal clothing, or other personal gear.
  • Tips for Guides and Porters: Services in this region are excellent; however, this is not compulsory as it has not been included in the package. 
  • Extra Meals in Cities: Extra meals in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or any other food before or after the ascent are at your own expense.
     
Essential Information

Best Time to Travel for Khopra Poon Hill Trek

The best times to travel to Khopra Poon Hill Trek are during the spring and autumn seasons due to their mild temperatures, clear skies, and stunning natural beauty. During these seasons, trekkers can enjoy vibrant rhododendron blooms in spring and breathtaking mountain views in autumn, making for an unforgettable trekking experience.

1. Spring (March to May)

Weather: Spring offers mild temperatures and clear skies, making it one of the most favorable times to trek. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while nights can be more relaxed.

Flora: The trekking trails come alive with vibrant rhododendron blooms and other wildflowers, creating a stunning natural spectacle.

Crowds: While popular, the trails are less crowded than the peak autumn season, allowing for a more serene experience.

Views: Clear visibility provides fantastic views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.

2. Autumn (September to November)

Weather: Autumn features stable weather with moderate temperatures, typically ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) during the day. Nights can get quite chilly.

Visibility: This season is known for excellent visibility, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas without the haze that can occur in other months.

Cultural Events: The autumn months coincide with various local festivals, allowing trekkers to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Gurung and Magar communities.

Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, so expect more trekkers on the trails. However, the bustling atmosphere adds to the excitement.

3. Winter (December to February)

While trekking is possible during winter, it can be pretty cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night. Snow may cover higher elevations, making trails challenging. This period is best for experienced trekkers seeking solitude.

4. Monsoon (June to August)

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and prone to landslides. Trekking during this time is not recommended due to potential safety hazards and poor visibility. However, if you do not mind the wetness and rain and prefer less contact with other trekkers, this week could be for you, although it will make trekking more difficult.

Recommended Read

Best Time for Annapurna Region Trek

Permits Required for Khopra Poon Hill Trek

Before you head out on the Khopra Poon Hill Trek, there are two main permits that you must obtain:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is essential if you are going for any trek that is located in the Annapurna region, and so is Khopra Poon Hill Trek. This is to enhance their protection and promote eco-tourism.

Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card

The TIMS Card is an enforcement card to ensure the safety of the trekkers. It helps monitor their movements in case of unforeseen occurrences. The TIMS Card can be issued from either Kathmandu or Pokhara before the commencement of the trek.

Also, ensure you have them on you, as these documents may be demanded at specific points of the hike.

These permits apply to all trekkers regardless of nationality, whether Nepali or non-Nepali. As for those interested in the Khopra Poon Hill trekking for 15 days, the permit fees will be included in the overall expenditure of the trek.

You can obtain these from the Nepal Tourism Board.

How is Food and Accommodation in Khopra Poon Hill Trek?

The Khopra Poon Hill Trek provides basic yet comfortable food and accommodation facilities throughout the trail.

Accommodation

Tea Houses: 

Most of the trek will have you staying in traditional Nepali tea houses. These lodges provide simple rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some places may offer hot showers for an additional charge. The higher you go, the more basic the facilities become.

Khare Village and Khopra Ridge: 

As you reach the more remote areas like Khopra Ridge, the accommodation tends to be more rustic, but the hospitality remains warm.

Food

Meals: 

Tea houses on the Khopra Poon Hill Trek offer a variety of Nepali and Western meals. Common choices include dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, pasta, and seasonal vegetables.

Pricing:

As usual, for every trek, the cost of food increases as you start to gain altitude, probably because such food supplies are hard to carry onward.

Local Delights:

You will also be open to other local foods, such as yak cheese and butter tea, which are pretty cultural.

Yes, the facilities are essential, but the food and accommodation provided on the trek are good enough for a safe and pleasurable experience.

For those season trekkers raising a question about how difficult the Poon Hill trekis, the cozy tea house stays make it easier to rest between the trek days.

How Difficult is the Khopra Poon Hill Trek?

The Khopra Poon Hill Trek is considered moderately complex. It is suitable for people with some trekking experience and those in good physical shape. However, even beginners can enjoy it with proper preparation. The areas covered are not all flat, as there are a few steep ascents and descents, but it is manageable with appropriate preparations. Here is the analysis of the difficulty level for this particular trek:

1. Trekking Terrain

Moderate Trails: 

The absence of technical aspects allows the trekker to traverse forests, terraced farmland, and alpine meadows. The route is primarily well-made, but some sections could be conquered since they are steep, especially as you get closer to Khopra Ridge.

Elevation Gain: 

Ascending the trek, participants reach a maximum elevation of 3660 meters at Khopra Ridge. This altitude may affect some climbers, who may experience discomfort due to altitude sickness; however, this is not as pronounced as other treks at higher altitudes, such as Annapurna Base Camp.

2. Duration and Daily Walks

15-Day Trek: 

The overall distance for the trek is an average of 15 days, and walking times vary from 4 to 7 hours per day. This allows for a steady acclimatization process that minimizes the chances of altitude sickness.

Rest Days: 

The itinerary includes enough rest days, especially around Khopra Ridge, for the travelers to acclimatize and see the sights.

3. Fitness Level

Physical Fitness:

Although no technical climbing is involved, the trekkers should be fit and ready for many hours of walking over several days. Some hiking experience is advisable before joining the trip, but it is not mandatory.

Altitude Sickness

Compared to other high-altitude treks in Nepal, the chances of getting altitude sickness on the Khopra Poon Hill Trek are low, but still, it is there to pay attention to. There are likely to be signs such as headaches, dizziness, or feeling sick when they climb above 3000 m.

For those who are wondering how difficult the Poon Hill Trek is, it is a little easier than Khopra Ridge, but they both are still manageable to most trekkers of average fitness. The Khopra trek can be accomplished as long as the proper preparations and pacing are taken care of.

What Should You Pack for Khopra Poon Hill Trek?

Pack the right gear for a delightful and successful Khopra Poonhill Trek. Following is a detailed pack list of things you will want to take with you for this 15-day journey:

Clothing

  • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking shirts and thermal layers to keep warm and dry.
  • Mid Layers: Fleece jackets or down vests will likely be used for the colder parts of the trek.
  • Outer Layers: A waterproof and windproof jacket to keep rain and wind at bay.
  • Trekking Pants: Breathable, lightweight pants with warmer options for the coldest nights.
  • Gloves, Hat, and Buff: Used to shield the sun’s rays on the head and provide warmth and protection to the hands.
  • Trekking Socks: Woolen socks that do not allow the feet to get wet or blisters to form.

Footwear

  • Trekking Boots: Sturdy waterproof boots for ankle support while treading on rough surfaces.
  • Camp Shoes: Shoes or sandals worn for after a day’s trek; they are light in weight.

Essential Gear

  • Backpack: A 40-50-liter backpack for carrying your necessities on the trek.
  • Daypack: A smaller pack used for day hikes or carry-on bags.
  • Trekking Poles: Used to balance oneself and ease the pressure on the knees while steeply down.
  • Sleeping Bag: A cold-weather sleeping bag without an assurance is rated below freezing, especially at a higher altitude, such as the Khopra Ridge.

Accessories

  • Sunglasses: The average sunglasses donned during the mountain trip often have UV ray protection. 
  • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High-altitude sun-protecting skin wear is crucial, especially for their cheeks.
  • Water bottles: Approximately 2 liters or more, preferably with a nozzle where purification tablets or a filter can be kept to prepare the water for safe drinking.
  • Headlamp: A head torch with additional batteries is recommended when the group wakes up for an early hike or use in the tea houses during the evening hours.

First Aid and Toiletries

  • Basic First Aid Kit: Band-aids, blister plasters, painkillers, and altitude game pills.
  • Personal Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and hand sanitizers.
  • Toilet Paper: Some teahouses provide it, but bringing your own from home is better.

Documents

  • Trekking Permits: To trek in the area, you must obtain permits like the TIMS card and ACAP entry permit.
  • Passport and Copies: Remember always to have scanned copies of your passport and visa on you.

Miscellaneous

  • Snacks for trekking: High-energy snacks should be packed for long trekking days.
  • Camera: Sights of Poon Hill, Khopra Ridge, and Annapurna Range should be captured in the camera.

Properly packing things will help in making the Khopra Poon Hill Trek both successful and fun. Also, remember that on this 15-day trip, it will be very advantageous for you to keep your pack as light as possible but with all essentials included.

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Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 11 Days

FAQs

The Poon Hill Trek lasts for about 4 to 5 days. Thus, this trek is suitable even for beginners or inexperienced trekkers. This period is enough to tour the attractive regions, the local settlements, and striking views of the Annapurna range. The view is amazing for those who do not fancy long treks and want to get closer to nature.

Yes, trekkers have required two major permits to complete the Poon Hill Trek, that is, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card, respectively. These permits are for environmental conservation and safeguarding the local people; they can be obtained through licensed trekking companies or at certain places in Nepal.

The Khopra Ridge Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,660 m (15,288 ft). This height lets one capture a vast sky view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. As with any other trek at high elevation, it is very important to adjust oneself to the altitude in advance so that one does not get altitude sickness and also so that one can see the beautiful views in calmness.

The Poon Hill Trek is rated as moderately difficult which makes it a trek that can be done by a novice as well as an experienced trekker. There are a few steep sections, but such steepness is made possible by shorter daily distances and well-maintained trails.

Yes! It is a popular spot where the amazing view of sunrise from the top of Poon Hill towards the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges is a must. This breathtaking view attracts scores of trekkers to the region, and the sight of the sun peeping out from behind the mountaintops is one for the books. 

When planning for a trekking trip to Poon Hill, investment in good trekking boots with support for the ankles and a good grip is important. This is because the trails tend to be rocky and uneven, and appropriate shoes can help avoid injuries and make the trek enjoyable. Also, waterproof boots are highly encouraged since some trekking activities may be done in the rain, where the trails are often muddy and slippery.

Indeed, tourists visiting Poon Hill can enjoy a wide range of views from the vantage point of many beautiful mountains. Mount Everest, however, is not one of the mountains found in Poon Hill. The sight of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) is still quite prominent for the trekkers standing at the viewpoint.

No, the closest point that can be accessed by a vehicle is Nayapul or Ghorepani in the Poon Hill trek. After that, the trekkers have to climb for about 45 minutes to one hour to get to Poon Hill, which is the last point of ascent. It makes this hike even more exciting and allows the trekkers to enjoy the scenic beauty.

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Why With Us?

Real Adventure Nepal Pvt. Ltd., for your Khopra Poon Hill Trekking, offers some of the best-selling trip experiences in Nepal. We combine adventure with stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable Nepal tour package.

  • We ensure an experienced guide, excellent service, and a well-organized itinerary. 
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides who are familiar with the Annapurna Region.
  • Well-organized itineraries that prioritize your safety and comfort.
  • Quality accommodations and meals throughout the trek.
  • A commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.