Asia Escapes · Signature Trekking & Cultural Journey

Nepal Cultural & Poon Hill Trekking Tour 8 Days

Experience the perfect blend of rich cultural heritage in Kathmandu and Pokhara combined with a scenic Himalayan sunrise trek to Poon Hill.

DestinationNepal

Duration7 Nights / 8 Days

Best ForPoon Hill Sunrise • Himalayan Views • Cultural Exploration • Mountain Trekking

StylePrivate Trekking & Cultural Journey

Journey Route

Kathmandu

→

Pokhara

→

Ulleri / Poon Hill

→

Ghandruk

→

Pokhara

→

Kathmandu

Journey Highlights in Pictures

Your Journey

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is free to relax after your journey or begin exploring Kathmandu at your own pace. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a gentle walk around the city, browse the local shops or simply enjoy the atmosphere of Nepal’s vibrant capital. Overnight: Kathmandu.

Day 2 – Kathmandu & Patan Heritage Tour

After breakfast, begin your introduction to the cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley. Visit Swayambhunath Stupa, one of Kathmandu’s most recognisable Buddhist monuments, set on a hill overlooking the valley. Continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square, the historic royal heart of the city, with its temples, courtyards and traditional architecture. Later, travel to Patan, also known as Lalitpur or the “City of Beauty”. Explore Patan Durbar Square and its impressive collection of temples, courtyards and Newari craftsmanship. A visit to the Patan Museum provides further insight into the region’s Hindu and Buddhist artistic traditions. Overnight: Kathmandu.

Day 3 – Kathmandu to Pokhara | Approx. 210 km / 7–8 hours

After breakfast, depart Kathmandu by road for Pokhara. The journey takes you through Nepal’s changing landscapes, passing mountain rivers, green hills, terraced fields and rural villages. It is a scenic introduction to the countryside beyond Kathmandu. Arrive in Pokhara, known for its beautiful lake and spectacular mountain backdrop. After checking into your hotel, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A stroll around the lively Lakeside area is a pleasant way to spend the evening. Overnight: Pokhara.

Day 4 – Pokhara to Nayapul & Trek to Tikhedhunga | Approx. 4–5 hours

After breakfast, drive from Pokhara towards Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. After completing the necessary trekking formalities, begin walking towards Tikhedhunga. The route passes through Birethanti, follows the Modi River and continues through traditional villages and green countryside. The first day of trekking is relatively gentle and gives you time to settle into the rhythm of walking in the Himalayas. Arrive at Tikhedhunga, where you stay overnight in a traditional mountain guesthouse or tea house. Trekking: Approx. 4–5 hours Overnight: Tikhedhunga.

Day 5 – Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani | Approx. 6–7 hours

Today is the most demanding walking day of the trek. After breakfast, begin the steep ascent towards Ulleri, climbing a long series of stone steps before continuing through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests. The trail passes through Banthanti and Nangthanti before reaching Ghorepani, a mountain settlement surrounded by spectacular Himalayan scenery. As you gain altitude, the views become increasingly impressive, with the peaks of the Annapurna region and Dhaulagiri appearing above the forests. Arrive in Ghorepani, where you spend the night in a local mountain lodge. Trekking: Approx. 6–7 hours Overnight: Ghorepani.

Day 6 – Poon Hill Sunrise, Trek to Nayapul & Pokhara

An early start today brings one of the most memorable experiences of the journey. Walk for approximately one hour before dawn to reach Poon Hill (3,210 m). From the viewpoint, watch the first sunlight spread across the Himalayas, with panoramic views towards the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Return to Ghorepani for breakfast before beginning the long descent towards Nayapul. After completing the trek, transfer by vehicle to Pokhara. Depending on the timing, continue with sightseeing in Pokhara, including Devi’s Fall, Bindabasini Temple, Mahendra Cave and Seti Gorge, followed by a relaxing one-hour boat ride. After several days in the mountains, the evening in Pokhara provides a welcome chance to rest. Trekking: Approx. 7–8 hours of activity Overnight: Pokhara.

Day 7 – Pokhara to Kathmandu | Approx. 210 km / 7–8 hours

After breakfast, begin the journey back to Kathmandu. Travel through the same scenic landscape of rivers, hills and rural Nepal, with opportunities to enjoy the changing views along the way. On arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free for shopping, relaxing or enjoying a final evening in the city. Overnight: Kathmandu.

Day 8 – Kathmandu Departure

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Your Nepal cultural and Poon Hill trekking adventure comes to an end, taking with you memories of Kathmandu’s heritage, traditional mountain villages and a spectacular Himalayan sunrise.

✦ Plan Your Journey

Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and hotel preferences. Our team can customise this trekking journey for you.

✦ Asia Escapes Insider Tips

Is the Poon Hill trek suitable for you? Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s more accessible Himalayan trekking experiences, but it should not be underestimated. The trail includes long uphill and downhill sections, particularly the famous stone staircase ascent to Ulleri. A reasonable level of fitness and some preparation before departure will make the experience considerably more enjoyable. Prepare for the early morning at Poon Hill The sunrise walk begins before dawn, and temperatures at the viewpoint can be very cold, particularly outside the warmer months. Bring warm layers, gloves, a hat and a good head torch. The reward is the view: as the sun rises, the Himalayan peaks gradually catch the light. Trekking poles are worthwhile The descent from Ghorepani towards Nayapul can be tiring on the knees. Trekking poles are especially useful on the long stone steps and downhill sections. Pack light For a short trek, there is little benefit in carrying a large suitcase. Keep your trekking essentials to a manageable bag and leave unnecessary luggage at the hotel in Pokhara or Kathmandu where possible. Layer your clothing Mountain weather can change quickly. Lightweight layers are more practical than one very heavy item, allowing you to adjust easily as temperatures rise during the day. Take your time The purpose of this journey is not simply to reach Poon Hill. Some of the most memorable moments come from walking through villages, meeting local people and seeing daily life in the mountains.

Why Choose This Nepal Cultural Tour?

This itinerary is designed for travellers who want to experience Nepal beyond the usual city sightseeing, but who do not have the time or desire for a long Himalayan expedition. In just eight days, you can discover Kathmandu’s historic temples and royal squares, experience the relaxed atmosphere of Pokhara and then walk through the villages and forests of the Annapurna foothills. The Poon Hill sunrise is the natural highlight, but the journey is about more than one viewpoint. You experience mountain hospitality in traditional tea houses, walk through rhododendron forests, pass through rural communities and see some of Nepal’s most impressive mountain scenery at a manageable pace. The combination of cultural sightseeing, a short Himalayan trek and time in Pokhara makes this an appealing choice for first-time visitors to Nepal who want variety without committing to a two-week trekking itinerary. With private transport, local guides, trekking support and accommodation arranged throughout the journey, you can concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than dealing with the logistics.

✦ Trip Highlights

Explore the cultural heritage of Kathmandu and Patan

Visit Swayambhunath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square

Discover Patan Durbar Square and the Patan Museum

Scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Walk through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Pokhara and Phewa Lake

Trek through traditional Himalayan villages

Experience the famous stone steps of Ulleri

Stay overnight in traditional mountain tea houses

Reach Ghorepani, one of the best-known stops on the Poon Hill route

Wake early for the spectacular Poon Hill sunrise

Enjoy panoramic views towards the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

Visit Devi’s Fall, Bindabasini Temple, Mahendra Cave and Seti Gorge

Combine Nepalese culture and Himalayan trekking in one compact journey

Relax with a boat ride in Pokhara

✦ Recommended Hotels or Choose Your Own

Destination	Hotel Options
Kathmandu	Shambaling / Tibet Hotel Shambala Hotel Radisson / Dunth Princess
Pokhara	Queens Park / Similar Atithi Resort / Similar Temple Tree
Trekking	Normal Guest House Normal Guest House Normal Guest House

✓ Services Included

3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed-and-breakfast basis, sharing twin rooms
2 nights’ accommodation in Pokhara on a bed-and-breakfast basis, sharing twin rooms
2 nights / 3 days of trekking accommodation in standard mountain guesthouses or tea houses
All meals during the Poon Hill trek
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Sightseeing as described in the itinerary
Local guide service in the selected client language
English-speaking Sherpa trekking guide during the trek
English-speaking representative for airport assistance
Private air-conditioned vehicle for sightseeing and road transfers
Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu road transportation
One bottle of mineral water during sightseeing
Entrance fees to the attractions mentioned in the programme
TIMS trekking card
Applicable local service arrangements

✕ Services Not Included

International flights
Nepal visa and immigration fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for guides, Sherpa staff, drivers, porters and hotel staff
Camera or photography fees at monuments
Laundry, telephone calls and other hotel extras
Meals and drinks not specifically mentioned
Personal trekking equipment and clothing
Any optional activities not included in the itinerary
Expenses arising from circumstances beyond the operator’s control

Recommended Hotels or Choose Your Own

The Dwarika’s

Marriott Hotel

Hotel Yak & Yeti

The Soaltee

Hyatt Regency

Baber Mahal Vilas

Dorje’s Resort & Spa

Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge

Pavilions Himalayas

Temple Tree Resort & Spa

Sarangkot Mountain Lodge

Bar Peepal Resort

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is the Nepal Cultural & Poon Hill Trekking tour?

This itinerary is designed for 8 days and 7 nights, combining cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara with the Poon Hill trekking experience.

What is the difficulty level of the Poon Hill trek?

The Poon Hill trek is considered moderate, suitable for hikers with reasonable physical fitness. Stone staircases and walking trails are manageable with proper pacing.

Where do we stay during the trekking days?

During the trek, accommodation is provided in comfortable mountain teahouses and lodges located in Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk.

Are professional trekking guides and porters provided?

Yes, experienced English-speaking trekking guides and supportive porter services are fully included to assist you throughout the trekking route.

Ready to Discover Nepal & Poon Hill's Himalayan Trails?

Let Asia Escapes create a personalised trekking journey around your travel dates.

Plan My Journey →

↑