The Annapurna Sunrise Trek Trip is an introduction to the Annapurna region. Also famously known as the Poon Hill Trek, it is a relatively easy walk meandering through villages and rhododendron forests. This invigorating trek reveals some of the best views of the Himalayas, especially from Poon Hill which is considered the best viewpoint in the Annapurna region by many trekkers and perhaps one of the most beautiful viewpoints that exist on this earth. Reaching a maximum altitude of 3210m, anyone with a normal level of fitness will be easily able to undertake this trek comfortably. If you want to test your stamina you will have the opportunity at Ulleri Hill. With more than 3,000 stone steps, it is one of the world's largest numbers of stone steps on a hill of this kind. Just imagine the magnificence of the sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayas that you will witness during this trek, illuminating the peaks of the entire range and leaving you mesmerized. The Annapurna Surnise trek begins with a guided sightseeing program in Kathmandu after which you will take a flight to reach the peaceful lakeside city of Pokhara.
The real walking then begins from Nayapul from which you will trek along to Ulleri and Ghorepani, where you can marvel at colorful orchids and the clear views of the splendid high mountains including Mt. Annapurna (8091 m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m). The final destination of Poon Hill at a height of 3210m is a reward in itself, perhaps one of the most beautiful viewpoints on earth. With the added presence of the stretches of rice terraces it is a photographer's paradise. You will then begin your descent with a trek to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk where you can enjoy the ethnic hospitality along with the cultural magnificence of Gurung Museum. Trekking through the Rhododendron forests that bloom with red flowers during the springtime, you will descend down to Birethanti, passing by waterfalls and a few small villages & settlements. Finally you will walk to Naya Pul and then drive to Pokhara which announces the end of this marvelous trek.
The 9-day Annapurna Sunrise Trek itinerary is designed for the trekker who wants a less demanding but short and beautiful trek, especially with their family and children in the rural mountainside with up-close Himalayan views.
Alternatively for Trekkers who would like a longer trek in the Annapurna region to Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base camp the Annapurna Sanctuary 16 day trek is the best option. Please return to the homepage for details of these other treks.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu [1300 m/4264 ft]
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Blue sky Trekking.
Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today after breakfast, we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where you can meet your trek leader and other team members. This will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding your upcoming adventure!
Day 03: Fly to Pokhara [823m/2,700ft] and Trek to Ulleri [2050 m/6725 ft]: 30 min flight and 6 hrs trek
Early morning flight to Pokhara. Be sure to catch the right side of the airplane for the best views of Himalayas. Pokhara offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. There are numerous lakes of Pokhara, known as 'Tal' in Nepali, which offer fishing, boating and swimming. After resting for a while we will drive to Naya Pul and start the trek. We will pass through sub tropical valley forests. After lunch we will cross the Modi Khola river via a suspension bridge to the village of Tikhedhunga. Ulleri Hill with thousands of steps and boulders that continually go upward will be a good t4est for your stamina, however by late afternoon we will reach Ulleri.
Day 04: Ulleri to Ghorepani [2750 m/ 9020 ft]: 4-5 hrs trek
We make our ascent to the Ghorepani village. The name Ghorepani in Nepali means horse-water owing to its role as an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker's stop. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls for selling local products and craft. The town has two parts: one in a saddle and the other a few hundred feet lower. We stop at the higher part of the Ghorepani village that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Annapurna South and Nilgiri mountains. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, you will begin to feel the chilly weather especially in the evenings. (B, L, D)
Day 05: Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Tadapani [2700m/8,860 ft]: 6-7 hrs
To catch the magnificent splendor of sunrise over the Himalayas, we make an early morning climb along the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3200mtrs). Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft) is a great viewpoint from where we will be able to enjoy wonderful panoramic views of the Mustang part and Pokhara valleys including the closest views of more than 20 highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snowy peaks of the high mountains loom above and around us glowing in the morning light. After taking photos and having some coffee, tea or hot chocolate, we will return back to Ghorepani. After breakfast, we will head east and climb a nearby ridge. Descending through rhododendron forest we will pass by small mountain villages and spectacular waterfalls along the way to Tadapani.(B, L, D)
Day 06: Tadapani to Ghandruk [1940m/6360 ft]: 3-4 hrs
From Tadapani, we make a steep descent through the dense and dark forest. This part of the trek is through a thick forest of old rhododendron trees. When the rhododendron trees are in bloom, these forests actually turn into gardens of dazzlingly beautiful flowers, mostly red, when seen from the air or from far. By afternoon, depending upon the season of travel, we will be pleasantly surprised by the sight of some cherry blossoms in bloom on the slopes on the other side of the ravine. After trekking a while longer we enter the village of Ghandruk, a slope settlement with stone houses mostly inhabited by the Gurung people. Along with enjoying the stunningly close-up towering views of Fishtail, Annaurna South, and Hiuchuli mountains, we also acquaint ourselves with the simple but rich cultural traditions of the Gurung people at the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk. (B, L, D)
Day 07: Ghandruk to Pokhara: 4 hrs trek and 1 hr drive
Today, we trek from Ghandruk to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara. The trek is downhill all the way to Birethanti. We will then travel onto a staircase paved with stone slabs, curving in and out of the village and then onto terraced farms. It is then a continuous walk from Ghandruk until the Modi Khola river valley. By the time we arrive at Birethanti, some of us would feel like we have competed in a downhill marathon, but our marathon is not over yet! From Birethanti, a half-an-hour's walk takes us to Naya Pul where the journey on foot comes to an end, finishing the day with a drive from Nayapul to Pokhara. (B, L)
Day 08: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 30 min flight
Today we will return to Kathmandu on an afternoon flight this will give you the opportunity for optional sightseeing tour in and around Pokhara or to enjoy adventure activities such as boat riding, paragliding, etc. While returning to Kathmandu from Pokhara, be sure to catch the left side of airplane for the best views of Himalayas! In Kathmandu you will transfer to your hotel and have the day at leisure to rest, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping or explore any sights you missed during your first day in Kathmandu! In the evening we will have a celebration dinner together before spending the night in Kathmandu. (B, D)
Day 09: Farewell Friend
Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. A representative from Blue Sky Trekking will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal. (B)
Price per person: 650 GBP , US$ 945
Minimum of 2 people required for this trek.
For groups of 4 or more there will be a reduction of 30 GBR per person.
This includes:
Not included in the price:
· Alcoholic and soft drinks
· Extra personal expenses
· If you wish to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara this will be extra. ( we can arrange this for you)
The real walking then begins from Nayapul from which you will trek along to Ulleri and Ghorepani, where you can marvel at colorful orchids and the clear views of the splendid high mountains including Mt. Annapurna (8091 m) and Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m). The final destination of Poon Hill at a height of 3210m is a reward in itself, perhaps one of the most beautiful viewpoints on earth. With the added presence of the stretches of rice terraces it is a photographer's paradise. You will then begin your descent with a trek to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk where you can enjoy the ethnic hospitality along with the cultural magnificence of Gurung Museum. Trekking through the Rhododendron forests that bloom with red flowers during the springtime, you will descend down to Birethanti, passing by waterfalls and a few small villages & settlements. Finally you will walk to Naya Pul and then drive to Pokhara which announces the end of this marvelous trek.
The 9-day Annapurna Sunrise Trek itinerary is designed for the trekker who wants a less demanding but short and beautiful trek, especially with their family and children in the rural mountainside with up-close Himalayan views.
Alternatively for Trekkers who would like a longer trek in the Annapurna region to Machhapuchhre and Annapurna Base camp the Annapurna Sanctuary 16 day trek is the best option. Please return to the homepage for details of these other treks.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu [1300 m/4264 ft]
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Blue sky Trekking.
Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today after breakfast, we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and Buddhists shrine (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest Stupas in the world. In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where you can meet your trek leader and other team members. This will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have regarding your upcoming adventure!
Day 03: Fly to Pokhara [823m/2,700ft] and Trek to Ulleri [2050 m/6725 ft]: 30 min flight and 6 hrs trek
Early morning flight to Pokhara. Be sure to catch the right side of the airplane for the best views of Himalayas. Pokhara offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, five peaks of Annapurna and others. There are numerous lakes of Pokhara, known as 'Tal' in Nepali, which offer fishing, boating and swimming. After resting for a while we will drive to Naya Pul and start the trek. We will pass through sub tropical valley forests. After lunch we will cross the Modi Khola river via a suspension bridge to the village of Tikhedhunga. Ulleri Hill with thousands of steps and boulders that continually go upward will be a good t4est for your stamina, however by late afternoon we will reach Ulleri.
Day 04: Ulleri to Ghorepani [2750 m/ 9020 ft]: 4-5 hrs trek
We make our ascent to the Ghorepani village. The name Ghorepani in Nepali means horse-water owing to its role as an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker's stop. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls for selling local products and craft. The town has two parts: one in a saddle and the other a few hundred feet lower. We stop at the higher part of the Ghorepani village that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Annapurna South and Nilgiri mountains. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, you will begin to feel the chilly weather especially in the evenings. (B, L, D)
Day 05: Ghorepani - Poon Hill - Tadapani [2700m/8,860 ft]: 6-7 hrs
To catch the magnificent splendor of sunrise over the Himalayas, we make an early morning climb along the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3200mtrs). Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft) is a great viewpoint from where we will be able to enjoy wonderful panoramic views of the Mustang part and Pokhara valleys including the closest views of more than 20 highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snowy peaks of the high mountains loom above and around us glowing in the morning light. After taking photos and having some coffee, tea or hot chocolate, we will return back to Ghorepani. After breakfast, we will head east and climb a nearby ridge. Descending through rhododendron forest we will pass by small mountain villages and spectacular waterfalls along the way to Tadapani.(B, L, D)
Day 06: Tadapani to Ghandruk [1940m/6360 ft]: 3-4 hrs
From Tadapani, we make a steep descent through the dense and dark forest. This part of the trek is through a thick forest of old rhododendron trees. When the rhododendron trees are in bloom, these forests actually turn into gardens of dazzlingly beautiful flowers, mostly red, when seen from the air or from far. By afternoon, depending upon the season of travel, we will be pleasantly surprised by the sight of some cherry blossoms in bloom on the slopes on the other side of the ravine. After trekking a while longer we enter the village of Ghandruk, a slope settlement with stone houses mostly inhabited by the Gurung people. Along with enjoying the stunningly close-up towering views of Fishtail, Annaurna South, and Hiuchuli mountains, we also acquaint ourselves with the simple but rich cultural traditions of the Gurung people at the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk. (B, L, D)
Day 07: Ghandruk to Pokhara: 4 hrs trek and 1 hr drive
Today, we trek from Ghandruk to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara. The trek is downhill all the way to Birethanti. We will then travel onto a staircase paved with stone slabs, curving in and out of the village and then onto terraced farms. It is then a continuous walk from Ghandruk until the Modi Khola river valley. By the time we arrive at Birethanti, some of us would feel like we have competed in a downhill marathon, but our marathon is not over yet! From Birethanti, a half-an-hour's walk takes us to Naya Pul where the journey on foot comes to an end, finishing the day with a drive from Nayapul to Pokhara. (B, L)
Day 08: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 30 min flight
Today we will return to Kathmandu on an afternoon flight this will give you the opportunity for optional sightseeing tour in and around Pokhara or to enjoy adventure activities such as boat riding, paragliding, etc. While returning to Kathmandu from Pokhara, be sure to catch the left side of airplane for the best views of Himalayas! In Kathmandu you will transfer to your hotel and have the day at leisure to rest, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping or explore any sights you missed during your first day in Kathmandu! In the evening we will have a celebration dinner together before spending the night in Kathmandu. (B, D)
Day 09: Farewell Friend
Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. A representative from Blue Sky Trekking will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal. (B)
Price per person: 650 GBP , US$ 945
Minimum of 2 people required for this trek.
For groups of 4 or more there will be a reduction of 30 GBR per person.
This includes:
- Accommodation during the trek
- 2 night Accommodation kathmandu.
- Insurance and wages for the staff which will includes porters and guides
- Private transportation when you begin and end your trek
- Meals during the trek
- Pick up and drop at airport
- Conservation fee
- Trekking permit
- Transport to Pokhara by tourist bus
Not included in the price:
· Alcoholic and soft drinks
· Extra personal expenses
· If you wish to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara this will be extra. ( we can arrange this for you)