Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is a moderately difficult trek and is one of the most comfortable treks in the entire Annapurna section of Nepal. Although it does not require any technical climbing skills; hence it is not so simple as walking in the park too. The Initial 3 days' trek is steep and strenuous.
The trek difficulty of any trek depends on the altitude, terrain, weather conditions, availability of teahouses and lodges during the trek, and many more. Thus, to be more familiar with the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Difficulty and answer the question “How difficult is Poonhill Trek?” convincingly, we will have to know all these attributes closely binding it to Poonhill Trek.
The trail during Poonhill Trek involves downhill and uphill climbs with some steep and narrow ridges. The difficulty level of the trek also relies on the topography of the route and the season in which you choose to trek.
Although it is doable throughout the year, Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September to November) offer you an easy time trekking in the region where, unexpected rainfall, snowfall, and harsh weather condition during winter and monsoon may result in a difficult trekking experience.
The whole journey covers around 40 to 44 kilometers relying upon the route you pick. All things considered; you'll need to trek for around 6 to 7 hours out of every day for seven days. At the height of 3,210 meters, Poon Hill denotes the most noteworthy rise purpose of the trip. Even though the risk of Altitude Sickness is somewhat less, it is critical to keep up wellness to protect from Altitude Sickness.
The traveling trail of Poonhill is a significant amazing mix of uphill and downhill. It even contains a lofty path with more incline than the others.
Regardless of the lopsided and rough landscapes, individuals are energetic about traveling in this district. One reason for this is the abundance of wildlife, even some are uncommon ones. Different reasons are the enduring streams, flourishing backwoods, various cultures, and some more.
Trekkers need to prepare well for the unforeseeable climatic atmospheres as the weather in the mountains is always unpredictable and likely to change quickly; hence, it is vital to pack all the necessary gear for unpredictable circumstances.
Next, you’ll be walking for long hours every day, invest in high-quality hiking boots. Although the experienced trekkers consider Poon Hill as an easy trek, it requires a certain level of physical fitness for the novice hikers to complete the trek.
Almost all round the year, the climatic conditions remain pleasant except for a couple of months of summer and winter. Only in a couple of months of winter the temperature of Ghorepani is below zero. The minimum temperature gets in the Poon Hill trek is -4 degrees in January.
If you consider the fact that the trekkers to Everest Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, and Annapurna Circuit experience temperature as low as -15-20 degrees in core winter, Poon Hill is quite doable.
The temperature generally does not affect while trekking in the monsoon (summer) months where the weather gets really warm and trekking in t-shirts is also possible. However, heavy precipitation, landslide, and slippery trails may hamper the journey.
You need to see the weather forecast for the monsoon season before commencing the journey and it is highly recommended to pack a waterproof jacket and trousers to keep the rain away from the monsoon is when you would want to do the Poon Hill trek.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek/ Annapurna Panorama Trek is considered an easy trekking trail compared to other famous trekking destinations of Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, Mustang, and Everest section of Nepal. Although the trek is short and does not encounter any tough challenges along the way, numerous trekkers find some sections within the trail a bit challenging.
The trek has an uphill path; climbing around 3300 upstairs on the second day of the trek for several hours is quite hazardous for many people. Some people consider that walking on several stairs is tougher than trekking through regular trails. So, the trails may add challenges for someone especially those who live an inactive lifestyle.
Some of the trekkers feel that it is an easy trek and carry heavy stuff. As they start the journey, their bags seem to feel heavier. Take a porter to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
Poonhill Trek; a moderately difficult journey that does not demand any physical training and trekking skills. However, one needs to be both physically and mentally determined for any troublesomeness and delays en-route.
Travelers eager to make the trek easier can start by exercising before commencing the journey. Some of the cardiovascular exercises, day hikes with some uphill/downhill climbs before the trek helps you to be prepared yourself for the varying route on the trekking trail
Altitude and its influence are essential factors for any trekking. However, during this trek, the challenges of elevations are next to zero. The summit point of this journey is Poonhill elevates at 3210m/ 10532ft.
Some of the trekkers encounter some symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness after the 3,000 meters however the situation does not get worsens as on the day of ascent to Poon Hill, you enjoy the sunrise in Poon Hill and then descend away too low. So, the chances of altitude sickness in this trek are almost non-existent.
The elevations of different places of your trek are explained
|
Places |
Altitude |
|
Kathmandu |
1350m/4429ft |
|
Pokhara |
850m/2789ft |
|
Nayapul |
1047m/3435 ft |
|
Tikhedhunga |
1480m/4856 ft |
|
Ulleri |
1960m/6430ft |
|
Ghorepani |
2810m/9219ft |
|
Poon Hill |
3210m/10532ft |
|
Tadapani |
2630m/8628ft |
|
Ghandruk |
1939m/6362ft |
You may have heard about altitude sickness but may not face actually what it is. So, you must understand the symptoms of the elevated problems; hence you can help yourself and others. Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness are listed below.
In case you find yourself and others with these symptoms, please do not pretend that you are okay. Don't think that these symptoms shall pass easily. Make sure you let your group and your guide know about your health condition. If you feel such symptoms, here are some of the measures that you can take.
During the trek, you mostly stay in the teahouses or small lodges which are quite basic and offer standard amenities. You shall have a twin sharing bedroom, a blanket, a pillow, a mattress, a table and two chairs in it.
Most of them have attached bathrooms; however, some have a common toilet in the higher elevations. Those who wish for luxurious facilities will find it uncomfortable during the trek. During the peak months, the teahouses and trails get crowded. Most of the teahouses are fully booked or reserved.
If you are trekking solo, may find it difficult to get the accommodation amenities as the local guides already pack the places for their groups.
If you are trekking Poonhill in the winter months, you need to bring extra stuff with you. Just a quilt or blanket won’t keep you warm as a chilly breeze enters via small windows or crack doors. So, it is advisable to carry an extra blanket or sleeping bag while trekking from November to February.
As you know that Poonhill trek is possible without a guide and porter. Poonhill trek is not only possible without a guide but also can be a good alternative for the ones who wish for a solo trekking experience.
We have organized several trips for the independent trekkers. Most of them have returned successfully too. Throughout the trail, you might find a group of fellow trekkers who march via the same route. So, this means you will always have someone with whom you can share the same route.
However, Trekking Poonhill with a guide and porter makes the journey less difficult. Guides do not only navigate the way but also help you to find the finest accommodations and eateries.
In case of emergencies, they have better communications for evacuation services. To share your all problems and experience and to reduce the challenges, you are recommended to trek with experienced guides.
Similarly, there are different twists and turns and uphill and downhills that you will have to take during your Poonhill Trek. Crossing all these paths all by yourself may be difficult. In this case, your guide will act as a source of inspiration.
He/she will motivate you to move further and does not let you give up. So, trekking alone to the Annapurna region may be difficult for beginner trekkers as they will not know about trekking. From such people, Poonhill Trek may be difficult without a guide.
As you are already familiar that, Poonhill Trek is a moderately difficult journey. There are some tips to reduce those challenges.
Drink plenty of water throughout the trip as dehydration is the biggest enemy in any trek. And you get dehydrated easily in the mountains which may lead to altitude sickness shortly.
Proper training is required for every trek you do. So, get involved in some physical activities as some day hikes, swimming, and exercising regularly before you start your trek. Training your body properly will help you increase your stamina and endurance power. Thus, you will not feel the stress of the trek.
During the trip, you will be ceaselessly walking for some days. In this way, having a comfortable pair of trekking boots is vital. Ensure Make sure the shoes fit perfectly and comfortable to walk into before wearing them on the trek if they are new.
On the off chance that you don't do that, at that point, they may cause rankles on the feet making it hard to walk. Do not pack unnecessary stuff that may add an extra burden.
The climate in high elevation is unusual. In higher altitudes, the temperature may drop quickly beneath the edge of freezing over. The cloud and the surprising precipitation may make the path troublesome. In this way, you should pack appropriately anticipating the climate that may go unpredictable at any time.
You would better carry a waterproof/windproof dress regardless of the period you are journeying. Likewise, whichever season you are traveling, it is a smart thought to convey the four-season hiking bed and trekking poles.
Poonhill Trek is a short and family trek that can be organized throughout the year. However, it is advisable to choose the best seasons for Trekking. You will get a great view of the valley and the mountains in the Trekking season. Trekking in the off-season can get bad. You might face heavy rainfall in Monsoon, and snowfall in Winter.
Always stay on your Trekking trail. Try not to take shortcut routes. Try not to attempt to place yourself in peril by moving away from the main trekking trails.
Poonhill Trek is a short, easy, and moderate trek in the Himalayas of Nepal. Easily accessible from Pokhara Valley, this trek is an excellent opportunity that rewards trekkers with authentic experience and warm hospitality.
Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is an ideal choice for people who are looking to escape the massive crowd of Everest and Annapurna. It offers a diverse landscape, unique culture, beautiful scenery, and panoramic mountain spectacles.
Poonhill is also a perfect adventure destination to discover rare wildlife and plants. You can be on the lap of the mountains in a short itinerary. This Trekking offers you some of the best views of the mountains and beautiful landscapes.
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