Adjust your pace to the rhythm of the Annapurna trails on this 12-day sensory journey through the Apple Pie Trail. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill offers a mix of the scent of blooming rhododendrons and the crisp mountain air, making its way across glaciers.
Your journey kicks off with a scenic drive from Pokhara’s lakeside district. Along your journey, you will encounter the knee-wrecking 3,200 steps of Ulleri to the golden horizon at Poon Hill. Reaching Poon Hill at 5 AM is an otherworldly experience. We fight the biting wind with a warm cup of coffee from our handy thermos as we wait for the sunrise.
From Poon Hill, you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, a sacred glacial basin guarded by mountains, including Annapurna South and the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). And here’s a pro tip for your descent: We recommend bringing extra knee support for your descent. The Ulleri steps are no joke.
This 12-day Himalayan odyssey introduces you to the warm hospitality of the Annapurna region. As you live among the Gurung locals, you share warm cups of Ginger tea in Ghandruk, watching the silver glow of Machhapuchhre in the evening, and capturing the diverse spirit of Nepal.
Join Adventure Trek in Himalaya to create memories that last a lifetime. Book your 2026/2027 Himalayan escape today!
Why Go on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill in Nepal?
The Annapurna trek is all about intimacy. This Himalayan journey allows you to stand at the base of the world’s 10th-highest peak while being surrounded by a wall of icy mountains and high-altitude glaciers.
The Poon Hill Sunrise: On the first leg of your journey, you will witness one of the most famous Himalayan sunrises. Take in the first rays of the sun that emerge from Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and the Annapurna range.
The Annapurna Sanctuary: Entering the sanctuary through the narrow gorge between Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre is a spiritual transition. As you enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, you will find yourself surrounded by massive peaks amid a natural amphitheater of ice and rocks.
Cultural Immersion in Gurung Villages: The Annapurna Base Camp trek takes you across several Gurung and Magar settlements. Along your journey, you can experience authentic mountain life, live in slate-roofed houses of Ghorepani, and observe the terraced millet fields.
Natural Recovery at Jhinu Danda: After days of strenuous trekking, you can rest and relax at the natural hot water springs in Jhinu Danda. The riverside springs are a local secret for rejuvenation. Soaking in the mineral-rich waters while listening to the Modi Khola river is the ultimate post-trek luxury.
Typical Day during the Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill 2026/2027
Your mornings in the Annapurna Base Camp trail typically begin at around 6:30 AM with a steaming mug of black coffee or ginger-lemon-honey tea, followed by a hearty breakfast. You will hit the trails by 8:00 AM, navigating the winding stone paths of the Annapurna foothills. We like to start early, as it allows us to take in the cool mountain breeze and avoid the intense afternoon sun.
Lunch is served at around noon at a local teahouse. Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour is the mantra to keep yourself energized and nourished throughout the trek. The afternoon trek continues along the Nepali Flats, which locals jokingly describe as “a little up, a little bit down.”
You will arrive at your overnight destination by late afternoon, usually between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This is the golden hour for photography or chatting with fellow trekkers. As the evening falls, the air gets colder. You will head to the communal dining area and huddle by the central stove.
After dinner, your guide will brief you on the next day’s itinerary, elevation gain, and trail conditions.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill: Cost for Logistics and Permits
The ABC trek is a comparatively more laid-back journey into the Himalayas. You can find well-equipped teahouses throughout the trails, ensuring a safe and comfortable travel. However, managing and coordinating various transport options, arranging permits, and booking teahouses can be time-consuming.
To ensure a seamless trek, Adventure Trek in Himalaya manages and handles all your logistical needs. Our pricing is transparent and ensures the guides and local teahouses are fairly compensated while you experience an ultimate Himalayan adventure.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill Highlights 2026/2027
- Stand in the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary (4,130m) surrounded by a 360-degree mountain panorama.
- Witness the iconic sunrise from Poon Hill over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.
- Climb the legendary 3,200 stone steps of Ulleri.
- Experience the sacred Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) and the view of the "Fishtail" peak.
- Soak in the natural riverside hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
- Walk through the world’s largest rhododendron forests (especially vibrant in Spring).
- Enjoy the lakeside charm of Pokhara before and after your trek.
Customized ABC Trek in Nepal via Poon Hill
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a highly versatile Himalayan adventure. Depending on your needs and interests, Adventure in Himalaya offers fully tailored packages.
Want to skip the Pokhara bus and fly instead? We can arrange that. If you need extra acclimatization days in Ghorepani or want to upgrade to luxury accommodation in Pokhara, our travel experts will handle the details.
Discuss your preferences with our travel experts. Together, we will craft a fully customized Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Poon Hill to match your pace and interests.