The Classic 10-Day ABC & Poon Hill Trek Itinerary combines two of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan experiences into one seamless journey. Starting from Pokhara, this trek takes you through rhododendron-covered ridges, remote Gurung villages, and high alpine terrain before reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m. Along the way, you’ll witness the legendary sunrise over Poon Hill, stand beneath the fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre, and soak in the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda. Suitable for fit beginners and experienced trekkers alike, this 10-day route is one of Nepal’s most rewarding moderate adventures. It perfectly balances cultural depth, mountain scenery, and physical challenge — all within easy reach of Pokhara.
Most trekkers choose either Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp. This itinerary gives you both — and that is its greatest strength. You gain the high-altitude panorama of Poon Hill at dawn and the raw, glacial beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary in one continuous journey. Furthermore, you avoid retracing your steps by following a circular route through Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Jhinu Danda.
This trek is classified as moderate. Therefore, it is suitable for reasonably fit travelers without previous trekking experience. Daily walking hours range from four to eight, and altitude gain is gradual enough to minimize acclimatization risks with proper rest.
Unlike organized camping treks, this route follows the classic teahouse model. Consequently, you stay in locally run lodges, eat fresh meals prepared by Gurung and Magar families, and connect directly with the communities along the trail. This approach is both more affordable and far more culturally enriching.
The Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) is one of the world’s most biodiverse protected zones. As a result, trekkers pass through subtropical forests, temperate rhododendron groves, bamboo jungle, and high alpine scrubland — all within a single trip. The Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak dominates the skyline throughout, offering some of Nepal’s most dramatic mountain photography opportunities.
Everything starts and ends in Pokhara, Nepal’s trekking capital. There are no domestic flights, no complex logistics, and no extreme altitude risks. In addition, the trails are well-maintained, well-marked, and served by a reliable network of teahouses — making this one of the most traveler-friendly multi-day treks in the Himalayas.
Nepal’s adventure capital and the gateway to the Annapurna region, Pokhara sits at 822m beside Phewa Lake with Machhapuchhre reflected on the water’s surface. The city offers excellent pre- and post-trek infrastructure, including gear shops, permit offices, international restaurants, and comfortable accommodation. Additionally, Pokhara’s Lakeside area provides a relaxed base to acclimatize before or recover after the trek.
A traditional Magar village at 2,073m, Ulleri is the first significant overnight stop on the route. Known for its dramatic stone staircase approach, the village offers authentic teahouse accommodation and views across the Modi River valley. The Magar community here maintains traditional farming and architectural practices.
Ghorepani (2,874m) is one of the most popular overnight stops on any Annapurna trek. Surrounded by rhododendron forests and positioned directly beneath Poon Hill, it serves as the classic base for the pre-dawn sunrise hike. The village has a range of teahouses catering to all budgets, from basic rooms to more comfortable lodges.
At 3,210m, Poon Hill is arguably Nepal’s most famous sunrise viewpoint. The panorama encompasses Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Crucially, no other viewpoint in the Annapurna region offers this breadth of high peaks at such accessible altitude.
Tadapani (2,630m) sits in a forest clearing and is often overlooked in favor of bigger-name stops. However, its peaceful atmosphere, strong mountain views, and position as a transitional point between Poon Hill and Chhomrong make it a memorable overnight location.
Chhomrong (2,170m) is the last permanent Gurung village before the restricted Annapurna Sanctuary. It is culturally one of the richest stops on the trek. The village stretches across a steep hillside with beautifully maintained stone paths, local schools, and a strong community identity. From Chhomrong, Annapurna South appears almost directly overhead.
These small teahouse settlements mark the transition from inhabited forest zones into the high alpine interior of the Sanctuary. Both provide essential rest points for altitude acclimatization. Deurali in particular, at 3,230m, is where many trekkers first feel the effects of altitude and should spend a night to adapt.
At 3,700m, MBC sits at the foot of the sacred Fishtail peak. Machhapuchhre is considered holy by Hindus and has never been officially summited. The base camp position offers an intimate view of the peak rarely possible from lower elevations.
At 4,130m, ABC is the centerpiece of the entire journey. The Annapurna Sanctuary is a glaciated basin encircled by Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Fang, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhre, and Tent Peak. Sunrise and sunset here produce extraordinary light on the surrounding walls of ice and rock.
A riverside village at 1,780m on the Modi River, Jhinu Danda is celebrated for its natural hot springs. After days of high-altitude trekking, the therapeutic warm water is deeply restorative. The location is also scenically dramatic, with forested gorge walls rising steeply on both sides.
Your adventure begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul along the Kali Gandaki River valley. After crossing the suspension bridge at Birethanti, the trail climbs steadily through Modi River gorge settlements. The final ascent to Ulleri is famous for its endless stone staircase — roughly 3,000 steps rising through pine and oak forest. Although it is challenging for first-timers, the gradient eases once you reach the Magar village of Ulleri. Arrive in the late afternoon, enjoy a warm dal bhat, and rest for the days ahead.
Difficulty: Moderate (steep ascent on stone steps) Altitude Gain: Approximately 1,200m
Today’s trail winds through one of Nepal’s most celebrated rhododendron forests. From March to April, the route is awash in crimson, pink, and white blooms. The walking is steady but not overly strenuous. You pass through Banthanti and Nangethanti before arriving at Ghorepani, a busy trekking hub at 2,874m. Check in to your teahouse early to acclimatize gently and prepare for the pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill the next morning. The evening views of Dhaulagiri from Ghorepani are, in themselves, worth the effort.
Difficulty: Moderate Altitude Gain: Approximately 800m
Wake before dawn — typically around 4:30–5:00 AM — and hike one hour to Poon Hill (3,210m) for one of Nepal’s most celebrated sunrise viewpoints. On a clear morning, you witness the golden light sweep across Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, the trail continues through dense rhododendron forest toward Tadapani. The descent and re-ascent through Deurali Pass is scenic and peaceful. Tadapani sits in a forest clearing at 2,630m with excellent mountain views from the teahouse terraces.
Difficulty: Moderate (early start required) Altitude: Poon Hill 3,210m | Tadapani 2,630m
Today’s route descends into the lower Modi River valley before climbing again to the Gurung stronghold of Chhomrong. The path passes through Gurjung and several smaller hamlets. Chhomrong is a culturally rich village perched on a hillside at 2,170m with sweeping views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli directly ahead. Moreover, it serves as the official gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary. Spend the evening exploring the village, eating at a local teahouse, and preparing permits for the restricted inner zone.
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep descents) Cultural Highlight: Gurung village life and traditional architecture
From Chhomrong, the trail descends steeply on stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola river crossing before climbing through Sinuwa. The landscape transitions dramatically from open terraces to dense subtropical forest. By afternoon, the trail enters the bamboo and rhododendron zone, and you arrive at the small cluster of teahouses known simply as Bamboo (2,310m). The air here is cool and damp. The forest feels alive with birds and, occasionally, wildlife from the conservation area.
Difficulty: Moderate
The trail continues deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, climbing through increasingly dramatic terrain. You pass Doban, Himalaya Hotel, and Upper Sinuwa, gaining altitude steadily. As you ascend, the forest gives way to alpine scrubland and rockier terrain. Deurali (3,230m) is a critical acclimatization point. Therefore, arrive reasonably early to rest, hydrate well, and eat a proper meal. The peaks encircling the Sanctuary begin to appear above the ridgeline, building anticipation for the following day.
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
This is the most anticipated day of the entire trek. The trail climbs from Deurali through a glacial moraine landscape to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m), where the sacred Fishtail peak towers above in breathtaking proximity. From there, the final push to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) crosses high alpine terrain with 360-degree Himalayan views. The Annapurna Sanctuary is encircled by eight peaks over 6,000m — including Annapurna I (8,091m), the world’s tenth-highest mountain. Stand in the center of this natural amphitheater and absorb one of the most powerful mountain experiences on earth.
Difficulty: Strenuous (altitude awareness essential) Altitude Gain: ~900m from Deurali to ABC
After an early morning at ABC to catch the sunrise on the peaks, begin the long descent. The return journey covers considerable ground — from 4,130m back down to Bamboo at 2,310m. Though the altitude loss is rapid, the trail is well-defined. Furthermore, the views on descent feel different from the ascent, offering new perspectives on the landscape. Arrive at Bamboo by late afternoon and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Difficulty: Strenuous (long day, steep descents)
A comparatively relaxed day follows the steep exertion of the previous two. The trail descends from Bamboo, crosses through Chhomrong, and then drops down to the Modi River at Jhinu Danda (1,780m). The highlight here is the natural hot spring on the river bank — a perfect reward for eight days of trekking. Soak in the geothermally heated waters with views of the forested gorge above. Many trekkers regard Jhinu Danda as their favorite overnight stop on the entire route.
Difficulty: Moderate
The final trekking day is short and gently descending. Follow the Modi River trail to Siwai or New Bridge, where a jeep or local transport connects you to Nayapul. From Nayapul, a 3-hour drive returns you to Pokhara. Arrive by early afternoon with time to celebrate, rest, or explore Pokhara’s lakeside district. The trek is complete.
| Season | Months | Weather | Suitability | Trek Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | Warm days, cool nights, rhododendrons in bloom | ★★★★★ Excellent | Peak season; vibrant forests, clear skies, stable trail conditions |
| Pre-Monsoon | Late May–June | Increasingly humid, partial cloud cover | ★★★ Good | Fewer trekkers, green trails, some rain; views still possible |
| Monsoon | July–August | Heavy rainfall, leeches on lower trails, fog | ★★ Limited | Not recommended for most trekkers; trails slippery, views obscured |
| Autumn | September–November | Crisp air, clear skies, dry trails | ★★★★★ Excellent | Best mountain visibility; stable conditions; busiest season |
| Winter | December–February | Cold at altitude, snow above 3,000m | ★★★ Fair | Quiet trails, strong visibility on clear days; cold nights at ABC |
Best overall months: October, November, March, and April provide the most reliable trekking conditions. Spring adds the spectacular rhododendron bloom along the Ghorepani–Tadapani trail.
The trek starts with a 45–60 km drive from Pokhara to Nayapul along the Pokhara–Baglung Highway. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours by private jeep or tourist bus. Road conditions are generally good, though occasional construction work may add slight delays.
From Jhinu Danda, a short downhill walk reaches the vehicle pick-up point at New Bridge or Siwai. The drive back to Pokhara takes approximately 2.5–3 hours depending on road conditions and traffic at Nayapul.
There are no domestic flights or technical transport involved in this itinerary. The entire trek follows established foot trails through the Annapurna Conservation Area. No portion of the route requires any mechanized transport or rope-assisted climbing. However, some river crossings use suspension bridges, which are stable and safe year-round.
All overnight stops on this trek are served by teahouse lodges, locally owned and operated by Gurung, Magar, and other Himalayan communities. Room quality varies by altitude and location. Lower-altitude stops like Chhomrong and Ghorepani have increasingly comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms, electric blankets, and reliable hot water.
Higher-altitude stops — particularly Deurali, MBC, and Annapurna Base Camp — offer more basic accommodation. At ABC, rooms are simple twin-sharing wooden or stone structures with blankets and basic bedding. Temperatures drop sharply after sunset at 4,130m, so sleeping bags are essential above 3,000m.
Most teahouses above 2,000m charge extra for hot showers (NPR 200–400), battery charging (NPR 200–500), and WiFi (NPR 200–300). These fees are not included in standard package costs. Room allocation is usually managed by the guide in advance, and twin-sharing is standard for group travelers.
Dal bhat — lentil soup with rice, seasonal vegetables, and pickle — is the most common and nutritious trekking meal. It is filling, affordable, and frequently includes a free refill. Other common items include:
Vegetarian meals are widely available and clearly labeled on most teahouse menus. The vegetable quality is freshest at lower altitudes. Above 3,500m, food is carried in by porter or pack animal, so freshness is more limited. Vegans may find options slightly more restricted above 3,000m.
Drink only boiled, filtered, or treated water during the trek. Water purification tablets or a personal filter are strongly advised. Bottled water is available at all teahouses but becomes progressively more expensive as altitude increases. Hot lemon tea or ginger tea is a healthy and warming alternative throughout the trek.
This is a moderate-grade trek. However, it approaches strenuous territory on Day 7 (Deurali to ABC) and Day 8 (ABC to Bamboo). Specific details:
Daily Walking Hours: 4–8 hours depending on the day Maximum Altitude: 4,130m (Annapurna Base Camp) Terrain Type: Stone steps, forested trails, high alpine moraine, river valley paths Fitness Requirement: General cardiovascular fitness; no mountaineering skills required Altitude Risk: Mild AMS risk above 3,500m; proper acclimatization reduces this significantly
Fit Beginners and Intermediate Trekkers This is one of Nepal’s most accessible high-altitude treks. Beginners who prepare physically and mentally will find this itinerary well within reach, provided they follow acclimatization guidance.
Adventure Seekers Standing at 4,130m in the Annapurna Sanctuary — surrounded by eight peaks over 6,000m — is a genuinely transformative experience. Equally, watching the sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill is a memory that stays for life.
Solo Travelers The teahouse network means solo trekkers are never isolated. Most guides work with individuals and small groups comfortably. The route is also safe and clearly marked, making it one of Nepal’s most solo-friendly long-distance treks.
Couples The variety of scenery — forests, ridgelines, glacial basins, and hot springs — gives couples an extraordinarily diverse shared experience. Jhinu Danda hot springs, in particular, is a romantic and restorative end to the trek.
Families with Older Children Families with children aged 12 and above who have reasonable fitness levels can complete this trek. Days 7 and 8 are the most challenging and should be assessed carefully. Lighter days at either end of the itinerary allow adjustment.
Culture Seekers Gurung and Magar villages throughout this route offer deep insight into traditional Himalayan mountain culture, architecture, agriculture, and Buddhism. Chhomrong is particularly rewarding for cultural immersion.
Photographers and Nature Lovers The spring rhododendron bloom, high mountain reflections at ABC, and the unique light conditions around Poon Hill make this one of Nepal’s premier photography treks.
There may be occasions when you find yourself needing to cancel your trip due to an emergency or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases,
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The Classic 10-Day Annapurna Base Camp & Poon Hill Trek exceeded all my expectations. The sunrise view from Poon Hill was absolutely breathtaking, with stunning panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp was a dream come true, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks in every direction.
The itinerary was well organized, accommodations were comfortable, and our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and always attentive to our needs. We loved walking through beautiful Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and scenic mountain trails. The mix of culture, nature, and adventure made this trek unforgettable.
I highly recommend Nepal Tour Package to anyone looking for a well-planned Annapurna Base Camp trek. The team provided excellent service from start to finish, making our Nepal adventure safe, enjoyable, and truly memorable.
– Michael Anderson, Australia
