Annapurna Panorama Trek in the foothills of Mt. Annapurna of western Nepal is one of the most popular easy treks that offers panoramic vistas of some of the highest Himalayas in the world. This trek ranging from 6 to 10 days, has many variations, most following classic routes while some newly formed routes. It is a distinct way to witness Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, and Mt. Machhapuchhre from high ridges and viewpoints.
These teahouse trekking routes explore diverse ethnic groups living harmoniously in the communities and the rhododendron-clad trails. The subtropical lowlands of the Annapurna conservation area are home to the rare and unique wilderness witnessed during the trek.
The Annapurna Panorama Trek itineraries are designed for all age groups of enthusiastic trekkers regardless of trekking experience and physical fitness. It is hence one of the most accessible and accommodating popular treks in the Annapurna region.
Poon Hill to Australian Camp via Jhinu Danda Route is one of the longest Annapurna Panorama Trek covering a full circuit in the Annapurna foothills. It is best suited for tourists who have enough time to witness the panoramic views of mountains from high ridges, hike amidst rhododendron and bamboo forest, and relax in a natural hot spring.
After driving from Pokhara to Hile, a hike commences to Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Tadapani before heading to the Poon Hill ridge. After enjoying mesmeric Himalayan views, the route descends to Tadapani and Jhinu Danda, where one can enjoy a bath in the hot spring. From there, a hike to Australian Camp followed by a trek to Kande concludes the trek, ultimately driving off to Pokhara city.
The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.
Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Trek Preparation |
Day 2 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) - 6 to 7 hours (200km) drive |
Day 3 | Drive from Pokhara to Hile and Trek to Ulleri (1,970m/6,463ft) - 2 to 3 hours (52km) drive and 3 to 4 hours (4km) trek |
Day 4 | Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,429ft) - 4 to 5 hours (9km) trek |
Day 5 | Early morning Visit Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft) and trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,530ft) - 5 to 6 hours (9.5km) trek |
Day 6 | Trek from Tadapani to Jhinu Danda (1,700m/5,839ft) - 5 to 6 hours (13km) trek |
Day 7 | Trek from Jhinu Danda to Tolka (1,780m/5,576ft) - 5 to 6 hours (9km) trek |
Day 8 | Trek from Tolka to Australian Camp (2,100m/6,560ft) - 4 to 5 hours (7km) trek |
Day 9 | Trek from Australian Camp to Kande, Drive to Pokhara and fly to Kathmandu - 1 hour (3km) trek, 1 hour (20km) drive and 25 minutes flight |
Day 10 | Final Departure from Kathmandu, Nepal |
The views of panoramic mountains covering green hills and the cocooned valley of Kathmandu will welcome you to the beautiful country of Nepal. After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, head on to the terminal after checks from customs. Our representatives from Third Rock Adventures will greet you and drive you to your hotel located in Thamel, about 5 km away from the airport.
You can relax at your hotel for a while then complete any pending documentation work. The tourist hub of Kathmandu, Thamel, has numerous restaurants offering different cuisines, music stores, arts and crafts shops, massage parlors, and much more. So, take a walk in the streets and come back to have a welcome dinner with some authentic Nepali food.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
You can get from Kathmandu to Pokhara in two ways; by air or by road. We will be driving there for this tour, as the terrain along the highway is worth enjoying. Pokhara is located in the western hills of Nepal. The drive diverges from Tribhuvan highway to Prithvi highway. Alongside the Trishuli river, the ride follows hills after hills in rounding paths passing Dhading, Manakamana, then following the Seti river to the City of Lakes; Pokhara. If the road condition is nice, then you will reach there in about 6 to 7 hours.
Upon reaching Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel located near Lakeside. After the long tour, you can take a rest then, in the evening, head out to the streets. A must-see in the city is the sun setting in Fewa Lake, which is only a short walk from your hotel. Enjoy the vibrant environment with good music and delicious local food.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.
Pack up your bags and take a drive to Hile. On the way, you will be passing significant religions and tourist sites. You can take a jeep ride from Pokhara up to Ulleri. However, to enjoy the view and get one with nature, we will take a hike from Hile to Ulleri. As you leave civilization and head on to Ulleri, be prepared for climbing more than a thousand stairs. Along with the locals, you come across donkeys, mules, and horses for whom you have to give way. Nevertheless, the final climb to Ulleri is rewarding.
After being welcomed by the “Welcome to Ulleri” sign, head to your lodge and take a much-needed rest. Sit beside the log burner fire around the dining table while devouring some authentic Nepali staple.
Overnight stay in Ulleri.
In the morning, the sky is clogged with wandering clouds and mist. As the sun rises, the sky gives way to spectacular views of panoramic Himchuli and Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft). After enjoying your breakfast with an idea, carry your bags and leave for the trail to Ghorepani. Taking slow steps, traverse from lodges to lodges on the way. Distant views of Mt. Macchapuchre will come into display. Through the trickling streams, rhododendron-clad forests, Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind, your brief stop will be at Nange Thanti.
After having some lunch, get back onto the forest floor and take your ascent to Ghorepani. The golden arches of the gate greet you with the “Welcome to Ghorepani, Poon Hill” sign. From here on, Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), the 7th highest mountain in the world can be seen. Ghorepani village has several lodges and homestays and friendly locals.
Overnight stay in Ghorepani.
From Ghorepani, the trail will take an ascent to Poon Hill. The amazing views of mountains, hills, and tiny lodges along the route will keep you occupied when the weather is not misty. Walking on the stone steps is certainly an uphill battle. However, it is worth all the effort. As the stone steps end, you ascend on the grassy hill with a peaking tower on top.
The Poon Hill view tower is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. On a clear day, the clouds are hovering almost parallel to you. The summit of Annapurna South is visible along with Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Mt. Machhapuchhre, and more. The Poon Hill sign is a popular spot for taking pictures, so make sure you catch up with this trend. You will witness streams of tourists cogging the area most days of the year as it is a relatively easier trek that is not so far away from Pokhara.
After having a much-needed break, you will take a hike to Deurali. There are many uphill and downhill turns. After setting off to the Deurali Pass, running along the ridgeline of the hills, head to the Bamboo and Rhododendron nestled forest. Taking the trail, a little further, you head to Ban Thanthi, giving way to waterfalls. Keep an eye out for the beautiful songbirds of color flying from one tree to the next. Finally, after taking a flight of stairs, you reach Tadapani.
Overnight stay in Tadapani.
Devour your breakfast with the towering views of gigantic mountains, Himchuli, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre. On this day, you will head to the Northeast towards Jhinu Danda hot springs. Passing by logs of Rhododendron trees, green moss, head to a pasture. From there, descend the hill to the village of Ghurnung filled with fields of barley. Crossing the Kadoorie bridge, continue along the Chomrong pass running through a steep hillside. You will eventually reach Taulung, which diverges on the left to the Annapurna Base Camp trail and right on the Jhinu Dada trail.
Passing farmlands without any sign of settlement, take a long walk until finally climbing stone steps to a fleet of lodges and homestays. Upon reaching Jhinu Danda, take out your swimming costume or anything close to that and head on to the Jhinu Danda hot springs. It is a short 15 minutes’ walk along a forest; you have to pay a certain fee then go down to the hot spring for a warm bath. Finally, head back to your lodge and enjoy a warm dinner.
Overnight stay in Jhinu Danda.
Leaving behind the hot springs of Jhinu Danda, you will take the trail that takes you to Tolka. Take a descent alongside the Modi Khola River while taking time for bird watching along the way. There are a few decent lodges along the way where you can make a quick stop to catch your breath if you are tired of walking on the hard stone steps.
Midway through the trail, make a stop at Landruk village for lunch. The ethnic Gurung tribe highly inhabits the little village. You might witness the tribal people wearing their authentic dress and engaging in traditional activities. From there, continue on the trail to the village of Tolka, which is only a short distance from here.
Overnight stay in Tolka.
An exciting day awaits as you will hike up to the famous Australian Camp. First, initiate the trek with a walk to Bichhik. From there, take a steep walk to Deurali. From Deurali, take a gradual descent to Pothana. Then, take a rest while enjoying the high-standing peaks above and the green fields below.
Australian Camp is known best for the panoramic views of the mountain surrounding the hills. The 180-degree unobstructed view of Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Macchapuchre, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna Massif attracts most tourists all year round. The smoking landscape and the stunning views of Mt. Annapurna South is the reason for the popularity. Enjoy the sunset over the golden mountains.
Overnight stay in Australian Camp.
To witness the amazing sunrise along the distant mountains, wake up early in the morning. After having breakfast in the warmth of the panoramic mountains, pack up your bags and head on to the southern trail to Kande, which is a short walk. As you descend, the climate gets warmer.
You will witness many lodges in Kande because this is a departure point for many treks in and around Pokhara and Annapurna. From Kande, take a drive back to Pokhara city. Have some lunch in Pokhara before heading on to the airport for a flight back to Kathmandu city. The flight is as amazing as the drive when you arrived. You get to witness the towering mountains being left behind along with green hills.
Upon reaching the airport in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel in Thamel. If the time permits, you can visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Thamel. You can explore the ancient history and strong religious significance in the many temples in and around the courtyards. In the evening, you can buy some souvenirs to take back home.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
After the adventurous trip in the foothills of Annapurna massif, you bid goodbye to our team as we escort you to the airport for your final departure homeward. Cherish the memories of your Annapurna Panorama trek in Nepal with the memories of the hills, mountains, tribal culture, unique topography and climate, mesmerizing wildlife, and more.
If you wish to explore a similar trek in the Annapurna region or any other trekking region of Nepal, contact us again.
There are numerous variations to the Annapurna Panorama Trek depending upon preferred duration and places. These routes offer the experience of visiting different villages, interacting with diverse ethnic tribes, and exploring amazing views of snow-capped mountains from distinct vantage points. Out of the variations, we have described below 4 of the best Annapurna Panorama Trek routes:
Dhampus and Australian Camp is an ideal Annapurna Panorama trek route for families and individual trekkers looking for a short and easy trek in the foothills of Annapurna. Dhampus, which is 25 km/15 miles from Pokhara, is an excellent viewpoint for the panoramic display of the Annapurna massif. Unobstructed sunrise and sunset views from Australian Camp and Sarangkot stand out as another major highlight of the trek.
Take a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and the trek begins after a drive from Pokhara to Phedi and progresses to the Australian Camp route via the Dhampus hike. A downhill hike to Sarangkot, then Phewa Lake concludes the trek.
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
Day 1: |
Arrival in Kathmandu and trek preparation |
Day 2: |
Flight from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 30 minutes and drive to Phedi (1,130m/3,707ft, 18 km, 30 minutes) and trek to Australian Camp (2,100m/6,888ft, 6 km, 2 to 3 hours) |
Day 3: |
Trek from Australian Camp to Sarangkot (1,592m/5,222ft, 17.5 km, 5 to 6 hours) |
Day 4: |
Trek to Phewa Lake and drive to the hotel (800m/2,625ft, 6 km, 2-3 hours) |
Day 5: |
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m/4592ft, 200 km, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 6: |
Final Departure from Kathmandu, Nepal |
The most renowned Ghorepani Poon Hill Sunrise route traverses through the village of Ghorepani and the fascinating viewpoint of Poon Hill. This Annapurna panorama trek itinerary is known best to offer an immersion into the rich culture and tradition of ethnic tribes along with the mountain and sunrise view from a maximum altitude of 3,210m/10,529ft at Poon Hill.
Commence trek after a drive from Pokhara to Hile towards villages of Ulleri to Ghorepani before reaching Poon Hill. After enjoying views of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna massif, hike to villages of Tadapani and Kimche before finally driving off to Pokhara.
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
Day 1: |
Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation |
Day 2: |
Flight from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 30 minutes flight) and drive from Pokhara to Hile (1,480m/4,855ft, 52 km, 2 hours 30 minutes), Trek to Ulleri (1,970m/6,463ft, 4 km, 3 to 4 hours) |
Day 3: |
Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,429ft, 9 km, 4 to 5 hours) |
Day 4: |
Visit Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft), Trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,530ft, 9.5 km, 5 to 6 hours) |
Day 5: |
Trek from Tadapani to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft, 10 km, 4 to 5 hours), Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 55 km, 2 hours 30 minutes) |
Day 6: |
Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft, 200 km, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 7: |
Final Departure from Kathmandu, Nepal |
Muldai Viewpoint is a newly opened Annapurna Panorama trekking route that combines two of the best viewpoints; the popular Poon Hill and the lesser-known Muldai.
After a drive from Pokhara to Kimche, the trek begins to the village of Ghandruk to Tadapani. The off-beaten route progresses to Dobato, then Muldai viewpoint, the highest point of the trek. Through rhododendron, oak, and fir treelines, the route descends to Ghorepani, then a hike to Poon Hill and back. Trek ends with a hike to Hile then a drive to Pokhara.
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
Day 1: |
Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation |
Day 2: |
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 200 km, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 3: |
Drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft, 55 km, 2 hours 30 minutes, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft, 3 km, 2 hours) |
Day 4: |
Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,600m/8,530ft, 7 km, 3 to 4 hours) |
Day 5: |
Trek from Tadapani to Dobato (3,350m/10,990ft, 6.5 km, 4 to 5 hours) |
Day 6: |
Visit Muldai view point (3,637m/11,930ft), Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,429ft, 9 km, 4 to 5 hours) |
Day 7: |
Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft), Trek from Ghorepani to Hile (1,480m/4,855ft, 13 km, 5 to 6 hours), Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 52 km, 2 hours 30 minutes) |
Day 8: |
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft, 200 km, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 9: |
Final Departure from Kathmandu, Nepal |
Annapurna Community Eco Lodge is a less crowded trekking trail that explores the rural villages in the Annapurna region while staying in community lodges. The fairly new route offers the abundant experience of interacting with the locals and understanding their unique culture and tradition. This route is getting more popular among Annapurna Panorama trekking itineraries.
Trek begins from Galeshwor, three hours’ drive from Pokhara city. From there, explore the silent yet vibrant village of Nagi and the amazing views of Mohare Danda. The route meets the popular Ghorepani trail heading to Tadapani, Kimchi, and back to Pokhara with a 2-hour drive.
Outline Itinerary
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
Day 1: |
Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation |
Day 2: |
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 200 km, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 3: |
Drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor (1,170m/3,838ft, 3 hours), trek to Bans Kharka (1,525m/5,002ft, 3 to 4 hours) |
Day 4: |
Trek from Bans Kharka to Nagi (2,230m/7,315ft, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 5: |
Trek from Nagi to Mohare Danda (3,300m/10,824ft, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 6: |
Trek from Mohare Danda to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,429ft, 4 to 5 hours) |
Day 7: |
Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,600m/8,530ft, 5 to 6 hours) |
Day 8: |
Trek from Tadapani to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft, 3 hours), drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft, 2 hours 30 minutes) |
Day 9: |
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft, 200 km, 6 to 7 hours) |
Day 10: |
Final Departure from Kathmandu, Nepal |
Annapurna Panorama Trek can be done around the year, but Spring and Autumn seasons are the best time. Spring falls from March to May, and Autumn from Mid-September to November. During these seasons, the temperature varies from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius (61 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), which is neither too hot nor too cold. Along with the cool climate, the sky is also usually clear, offering panoramic views of Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and surrounding mountains. In addition, spring is when rhododendrons blossom, making the lush forest trails vibrant with colors of red and pink. Most celebrated and significant Nepalese festivals also fall in the Autumn season, of which you can be a part of your travel coincides with the dates, which is an added advantage.
The summer season lasts from June to Mid-September, when there might be showers due to the monsoon's onset, making the trail muddy. Winter from December to February experiences colder temperatures, so you have to carry heavier and warmer clothing. However, tourists also prefer these seasons as they can enjoy a less crowded silent trekking trail.
Annapurna Panorama Trek is an easy trek for all age groups, families, and individuals, whether experienced or amateur trekkers. The trip ranges from 6 to 10 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours trek. Depending upon the route taken, the walking distance covered in this trek is anywhere from 30 km to 50 km. As there are no technical climbs or difficult trails, one would not require high physical fitness, making it a relatively easier trek than others in the Annapurna region.
Altitude sickness is fairly uncommon in the Annapurna Panorama Trek as this is a low altitude trek. In the fringes of Annapurna, the hike reaches a maximum altitude of under 3,500 meters. Altitude sickness occurs beyond the elevation of 3,500 meters. In some cases, the body cannot get accustomed to the decrease in oxygen level and increase in air pressure and shows fatigue, vomiting, headaches, and such symptoms. However, in this trek, it is rare to fall victim to altitude sickness.
Annapurna Panorama Trek falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), a protected area. Hence, the following are the two permits required for this trek.
These permits can be collected from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu on all days of the week between 9:00 AM to 16:00 PM (NT). Alternatively, you can get the permits from TAAN Office based in Santi Patan, Pokhara. Children below ten years old don't require these permits.
Annapurna Panorama is a teahouse trek where the lodges/teahouses along the trail offer decent meals and accommodation. The basic facilities include a comfortable bed, room with minimal furniture, warm blankets, a communal bathroom with a paid hot shower, and communal squat toilets.
Family members run the lodges, so Nepalese staple food, Dal (lentil soup) and Bhat (steamed rice), are particularly famous. However, you will find a small range of western cuisine as well. In the popular routes of the Annapurna region, the teahouses offer better benefits than those situated on the new trails.
As the Annapurna Panorama is a popular trek in the lower altitude of the Annapurna region, an internet facility is available on the trail. Wifi facility is available in major tourist stops like Ghorepani, Ghandruk, Tadapani, Kimchi, Ulleri, and more. Furthermore, to enjoy high-speed internet, you can also purchase a local GSM-operated SIM card with a mobile internet data pack from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
In the trekking trail amidst the forests, however, the internet is not easily available due to connectivity issues.
Your packing checklist for Annapurna Panorama Trek should generally include the very basic gears as this is a low altitude, easy, and relatively short trek. Carrying warm clothing from head to foot, comfortable trekking shoes, sturdy walking poles, and toiletries is essential for the tour, while the rest depends on you.
However, the list can also vary depending upon the season of travel. During the autumn and spring season, you can carry the basic gears; summer or monsoon requires rainproof gears, while the winter season requires warmer clothing.
For an in-depth detail of the packing checklist, please check out our Packing for trekking in Nepal blog.
Image: Stephen, pbr42 - Flickr