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Poon Hill Trek Description

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short and easy treks in Nepal in Annapurna region. The Poon Hill trek is a combination of nature, culture, and breathtaking mountain views. The Ghorepani trek starts from Ulleri, which is a jeep ride from Pokhara. The Ghorepani Pon hill trek ends at Ghandruk, where another jeep brings you back to Pokhara. The total distance of the Poon hill trek from Nayapul to Ghandruk through Ghorepani and Poon Hill is approximately 45 kilometers.

This Poon Hill trekking has stunning Himalayan vistas. Trekkers get to see Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Machapuchare (6,993m). The most important highlight of the Poon hill trek is sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m). The golden glow on snow-capped Annapurna and Dhaulagiri summits is a sight to behold.

The Poon Hill Trekking trail passes through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a fine mix of nature and culture. You will tread well-paved stone steps, forest trails, and some occasional steep trails. The most challenging section of Poon Hill Trek is between Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, where a steep ascent of over 3,000 stone steps is tough for most trekkers and the second most difficult is from Ghorepani to Tadapani with some slippery trail down to Banthanti.

Poon hill trek is easy to moderate, so it's ideal for beginners and families with children. Most trekkers complete it in four to five days, trekking 4 to 6 hours a day. The total trekking time of Poon Hill Trek is around 20 hours.

Simple but comfortable lodging and teahouses along the trail offer accommodation in Poon Hill Trek. Hot food like dal bhat, noodles, pancakes, and tea are served. Warm blankets and host hospitality add to the fun of Poon hill trekking.

The best seasons for the Poon Hill Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear weather and comfortable temperatures with astonishing mountain views.

You require two permits for Poon Hill Trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. It is highly advised to hire a licensed guide and porter for safety and assistance though one can do Poon Hill Trek independently.

The Poon Hill trek is a rewarding short trek in Annapurna region near Pokhara city. It provides iconic views, rhododendron forests, and unforgettable sunrises especially from Poon hill.

Suggested Blog Posts Related Poon Hill Trek

1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Jeep Ride

2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route 

3. Poon Hill Trek in October

4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Winter

5. Poon Hill Trek Cost 

6. Annapurna Base Camp Jeep Ride

7. Where is the Best View of Annapurna Range?

8. Poon Hill Trek in December

9. Ghorepani-Poonhill Trek- A Complete Trekkers' Guide

10. Poon Hill Trek in Spring

11. Poon Hill Trek in March 

12. Poon Hill Trek in April

13. Poon HIll Trek in May

14. How much does it cost to trek to Poon Hill?

15. Best Time for Poon Hill Trek

16. Poon Hill trek in November

How is Poon Hill Trek in September? 

Poon Hill Trek in September features great mountain vistas and ideal trekking weather. September is the start of the autumn season in Nepal. The monsoon clouds start to dissipate, and the skies become crisp with lush landscapes during Poon Hill Trek. There are fewer trekkers in September compared to October and November, so the trails are quiet and less crowded during Poon Hill Trek.

Weather in Poon Hill Trek in September continues to be mild and pleasant. Day temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C. Nights in the higher reaches like Poon Hill fall to 5°C to 10°C. Light rain can still occur in early September but does not last long. The air in September is crisp, and plant life is lush after the rains in Poon Hill Trek.

Poon Hill (3,210 m) Trek in September rewards trekkers with expansive mountain views. You see Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Machapuchare (6,993 m), and Nilgiri (7,061 m). Sunrise paints these peaks in gold in September.

Teahouses in Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Banthanti offer cozy rooms and satisfying meals in Poon Hill Trek in Spetember. Dal bhat, noodles, pancakes, tea, and coffee are available. Hospitality is friendly, and facilities are reliable in September during Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

There are daily tourist buses and flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara for your Poon Hill Trek in September. You can travel from Pokhara to Ulleri or Banthanti in a jeep or local bus. The ride is scenic with terraced hills and villages en route.

The trekking trail goes through dense forests and rhododendron forests with lively landscapes of September. The skies are clearest in September, and the views are unobstructed. This mix of culture, nature, and mountain views makes September the best time for the Poon Hill Trek.

 Poon Hill Trek in September: Highlights

The Following are the five best highlights of the Poon Hill Trek in September with the information focusing on strong on the trail and weather conditions during this early-autumn month: September.

1. Unobstructed Views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges

September is the final month of the monsoon, offering new and fresh mountain views. You can see Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and Nilgiri (7,061m) loom above. These mountains appear especially razor-sharp and snow-covered after the rains. During sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m), the entire Himalayan landscape lights up. Fresh air offers clear vision for shots. Villages like Ghorepani offer unhindered visions from every direction. Clouds clear very early in the morning, giving a head-start to early walkers. The cold air and clear skies make the entire mountain-staring affair all the more enjoyable.

2. Lush Greenery and Fresh Forested Trail

The foliage that arrives with the late monsoon in September covers the entire trekking trail in complete life. You will climb through dense rhododendron forests, even though the flowers bloom during springtime. The ferns, moss, and bamboo shine under filtered light. Ulleri to Ghorepani trails are alive and stimulating in September. Modi Khola valley and hill slopes are plagued by a new green covering. Waterfalls are brimming and bubbling with the rain. The patches of forest between Banthanti and Tikhedhunga are shaded and have bird songs. The Poon Hill route in September is peaceful, with fewer individuals and a revitalized environment.

3. Ideal Weather and Comfortable Trekking Temperatures

September weather is still ideal for  Poon Hill trekking, not hot and not cold. Day temperatures in Poon Hill Trek in September are still 15–20°C in villages like Ghorepani (2,874m). The nights are cool, especially in higher altitudes, but never freezing. Trails are less slippery by mid-September because the monsoon period comes to an end. Skies clear very soon after brief rains. You get to walk in bright sunshine and gentle breezes. Lower places like Nayapul and Tikhedhunga are warm and humid but manageable. You may stroll around in light layers without discomfort. No snow and frost delay your trekking pace in September.

4. Cultural Rich Experiences in Magar and Gurung Villages

 Poon Hill Trek in September allows trekkers the chance to interact with people after the tranquil monsoon season. Villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani come alive with everyday life. You can spend your evenings at local teahouses run by hospitable Magar and Gurung families. Farm lands are a bright emerald green, reflecting the local agriculture going on. You may find early festivities like Indra Jatra or Teej under way. Villagers return from lower villages, waking settlements into life. The path also includes visits at traditional homes and cultural museums, especially at Ghandruk. The warm hospitality and cultural diversity provide valuable experiences above nature.

5. Breathtaking Sunrise at Poon Hill with Fewer Tourists

The sunrise at Poon Hill in September is legendary and intimate. There are fewer tourists, and hence you are able to enjoy peaceful moments. The sun rises above the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, bringing golden hue to the peaks. You can comfortably see layers of mountains, including Tukuche Peak (6,920m) and Hiunchuli (6,441m). Paths to the viewpoint are dry and open in mid-September. Ghorepani village is still quiet but friendly, with perfect rest before the early morning hike. You will leave in darkness with headlamps and reach the summit as the sky is just lightening to orange.

What is the weather like in Poon Hill in September? 

 Poon Hill Trek in September, the Poon Hill area changes from monsoon to fall. Weather begins to improve after August rainfall.  The early September may still bring some lights rainfall. Skies clear, providing improved mountain vistas. Early September can still have light rain, though. Trails are still muddy and slippery in some areas.

Pokhara, 822 meters above sea level, remains warm and humid in September.  Day temperatures in Poon Hill trek in September are 20°C to 28°C. Nights are cooler, at 17°C to 20°C. Occasional rain is possible, particularly in early September.

Ulleri and Banthanti are 1,960 to 2,200 meters. Day temperatures in September range from 15°C to 22°C. Nights fall to around 10°C to 14°C. You will receive light rain in the evening.

Ghorepani and Tadapani at 2,800 to 2,630 meters have warm day temperatures in September of 12°C to 18°C. Nights turn cold, dipping to 6°C to 10°C. Mist and rain fall at times.

Ghandruk at 1,940 meters has 16°C to 23°C daytime temperatures in September. The night temperatures dip to 11°C to 14°C. Showering rains will still be common, but this is mainly during the afternoons.

The summit of Poon Hill at 3,210 meters is colder in September comparing to other lower elevations. It is between 10°C to 15°C during the day in September. Early evening and nights are 4°C to 7°C. Snowfall will be very unlikely in September.

Pack a waterproof jacket and fast-drying clothes for Poon Hill Trek in September. Put on good trekking shoes that have traction. Take a rain cover for your backpack. Pack warm gear for higher elevations. Use trekking poles on slippery spots. Take an extra pair of socks and gloves. Check weather forecasts before each trek day.

Poon Hill Trek in September : Pros and Cons

Though September is post rainy month and beginning of the good trekking season in Nepal and even for Poon Hill Trek. Trekking to Poon Hill in September has both pros and and cons.

The following are 5 pros and 5 cons of trekking to Poon Hill in September, each with actual trail-specific details. All the pros and cons are relative to September conditions like weather, trail condition, transport, food, and accommodation:

Pros of Poon Hill Trek in September

1. Trails are lush and in flower following monsoon rains.

September offers rich greenery along the trail from Nayapul (1,070m) to Ghorepani (2,860m). The forests between Ulleri (1,960m) and Banthanti are rich with rhododendrons, moss, and ferns. You’ll walk through rejuvenated landscapes and feel fresh air with every step. Streams run clear, and waterfalls near Tikhedhunga look stunning. The trail is peaceful compared to October rush, and village farms are full of activity. The natural charm is at its best, thanks to recent rains that nurture the Annapurna foothills.

2. Mountain views come back after early morning mist

Though clouds linger in the September afternoons, mornings offer breathtaking views from Poon Hill (3,210m). Open views can be expected of Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167m). September skies also settle gradually, offering sunrise views with golden summits glinting above dense clouds. Most visitors in Ghorepani hike up at sunrise and are rewarded with Himalayan drama and warm hues lighting up the horizon—ideal for photography and reflection before high-season visitors swamp October.

3. Less congestion means less noise and better accommodation

September is when the trekking season starts in Nepal and in Poon Hill Area, but the tourists have not yet reached their full numbers. Village lodges like those at Tadapani (2,630m) and Ghorepani are easily available, and you typically find yourself with private rooms without any prior booking. You can enjoy quiet meals with locals and fellow trekkers. Tranquility on rock staircases along Hille and Ulleri allows slow and reflective walking. You won't compete for space on viewpoints like Poon Hill, and service from teahouse owners is more attentive and personal.

4. Teahouses reopen with fresh menus after the off-season.

By early September, teahouses resume full operations. You’ll find warm dal bhat, Tibetan bread, and masala tea at lodges in Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Banthanti. Menus get restocked after the monsoon, and locals serve fresh vegetables from their farms. Comfort foods like apple pie and hot soups are extra delicious in the chilly evenings. While the tourist season begins, teahouse operators replace stock, sweep rooms, and offer better hospitality. It's a great time to enjoy food and comfort before the madness in October.

5. Transport to the trailhead is smooth by mid-September.

By the second week of September, the Pokhara-Nayapul road (820m) dries up. Jeep or bus travel becomes routine and secure again. In contrast to July or August, landslides are rare and road work teams shift any blocks rapidly. This facilitates setting out on your trek. In contrast, more extensive treks like Annapurna Base Camp will continue to feature muddy trails, but the Poon Hill trek is still quite easy and short, with Pokhara merely 2 hours from the trailhead.

Disadvantages of Poon Hill Trek in September

1. Monsoon rains in late September may still wet trails

Residual monsoon showers are common in early September. Stone staircases along Ulleri and Ghorepani become muddy and slippery. Landslides along Tikhedhunga and minor streams may overflow. Trails become leech-infested, particularly in shaded forest areas between Banthanti and Tadapani. Waterproof boots and trekking poles will be required. Although rain decreases each week, surprise rains in the afternoons still surprise many trekkers. Treks without ponchos or rain gear become challenging for them in the late hours. Photography can be impacted due to late afternoon misty weather.

2. Clouds may block visibility for a good part of the day.

Even though mornings are generally clear, clouds usually gather by 10 a.m. Trekkers ascending Poon Hill from Ghorepani may miss mountain views if they are held up. Afternoon treks between Tadapani and Deurali are generally cloudy, with little sight of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Even Machhapuchhre is hidden. Mountain trekkers who hope to have uninterrupted sight of the mountains are disappointed. Sunrise treks are required for optimal chances. Those who arrive later in the day often face grey skies, misty, and dull—and at high elevation.

3. Some trails remain broken or washed away.

September trails usually still bear monsoon damage. Bridges around Tikhedhunga or Banthanti may be unstable or in repair. Erosion affects stone steps between Hille and Ulleri. Small landslides result in temporary detours. Trekkers must watch out for wet or uneven sections. Wooden planks are used by porters to cover slippery stream crossings. While not dangerous, the disruption can delay the trek or require earlier stoppages. Compared to peak-month October, trails are less manicured during early September. Check the transportation options for Ulleri and Banthanti and back to Pokhara from Ghandruk while doing Poon Hill Trek in September. 

4. Leeches could be an annoyance in lower parts.

The Nayapul to Banthanti section is particularly leechy and humid in early September. Especially after rain, they adhere to socks and boots. Local guides recommend salt or Dettol sprays. Trekkers negotiating wet forest sections at Ulleri and Tikhedhunga often stop to take off leeches. The nuisance ceases above Ghorepani, but spoils the early trail experience. Leech-proof socks and avoiding rest stops in grassy spots reduce bites.

5. Road conditions cause transportation delays.

Even though the principal road to Nayapul is open, the weather still presents delays. Jeep drivers delay starting after heavy rains because of slippery roads at Lumle and Nayapul. Buses sometimes are canceled in the morning as a result of rain during the night. Unplanned roadblocks may add extra time to your drive from Pokhara. Unlike October, transport is not always dependable—particularly during the first week of September. Trekkers are likely to come late or tired. Returning is also slow when trails and roads are wet.

 Poon Hill Trek in September : Preparations

These are 10 best preparations for Poon Hill Trek in September, each supported by elaborate reasons, mainly the weather, accommodation, and transportation conditions of this month: September

1. Prepare Yourself for Varying Weather Conditions

September marks the end of monsoon season in Nepal, hence the trekkers must prepare for variable weather—sunlight in the morning and rain or fog in the afternoon. Pack lightweight, breathable rain gear (like a poncho or rain jacket) to stay dry during surprise downpours. Waterproof backpack covers and dry sacks are essential to protect electronics and clothes. Footwear should be waterproof with good grip since trails can be muddy and slippery. The temperature in Ghorepani (near Poon Hill) ranges between 10°C to 20°C in September, with nights being cooler. Quick-drying clothing, layers, and moisture-wicking base layers keep one comfortable. Leeches are expected on the trail, particularly in wet sections, so bringing salt or anti-leech oil is also a good idea. Having some flexibility in your schedule for inclement weather delay is a good idea, particularly for the sunrising view at Poon Hill.

2. Reserve Transportation in Advance

September, marking the beginning of autumn trekking season, means domestic travel is more congested. The standard schedule is to travel from Pokhara to Nayapul (the start of the trek) by jeep or public bus.  One can also go up to Ulleri or Banthanti in late September. Check the availability of transportation like Pokhar to Ulleri Jee Ride. Pokhara is reached from Kathmandu by tourist bus, flight, or private vehicle. As the weather can still affect flights and roads (with lingering monsoon landslides), reserve in advance and take morning flights when the weather is less likely to be turbulent. Buses may be held up on muddy rural roads close to Nayapul, so private jeeps are a better bet and more flexible. Organizing through a local trekking agency or hotel can make these arrangements easier. It is also wise to leave some contingency time in your itinerary for the eventuality of transport hold-ups.

3. Book Accommodation Well in Advance in Popular Places

September is the start of the autumn trekking season, so although it's quieter than October, Ghorepani lodges, Tikhedhunga, and Ulleri can start to get busy. While teahouses along the way up Poon Hill usually don't require pre-booking off-season, September might have the odd early trekker and wayward monsoon tourist filling the rooms, especially in popular villages. Reserving the first and last night in Nayapul and Pokhara is important. For the trek, if self-guiding, call the teahouses, especially Ghorepani ahead of time to book a room. This will ensure that you don't wind up sleeping in dinning areas or double occupancy cramped rooms with no notice. If with a guide, guides typically prearrange rooms beforehand.

4. Pack Adequate Trekking Equipment

For the variable conditions in September, your equipment will need to accommodate rain cover and lightweight trekking layers. These are essentials: waterproof jacket, rain cover for backpack, trekking poles (in case of slippery or muddy terrain), and waterproof hard-wearing walking boots. A headlamp, sunblock, sunglasses, and hat for the occasional sun breaks are required. A four-season sleeping bag is not necessary for this lower-altitude trek, but a sleeping bag liner for added hygiene and cold nighttime comfort is a good idea. Blankets are available from teahouses, but the night temperature may get quite cold. Personal toiletries, a power bank, a refillable water bottle with purification tablets or filters, and basic first aid should not be left behind. Ziplock bags or dry sacks keep gear dry. Due to the extremely high humidity in September, fast-drying and odor-free clothing is an appropriate option.

5. Arrange for Leech Protection

As September comes after the monsoon period, leeches are common on the lower section of the trek—particularly at Ulleri and Tikhedhunga. Take along anti-leech oil, DEET insect repellent, or even tobacco-lime paste, which locals use to repel leeches. Wear leech socks or roll your pants up into your socks, and don't sit or place your backpack on the ground. If a leech does attach, pull it off with salt or a lit cigarette/lighter (never pull them off because it will leave part of the leech behind). Avoiding covering legs, remaining in the center of the trail, and avoiding wet grassy areas minimizes contact. Most importantly, don't panic—leeches are more annoying than dangerous, and a few basic precautions will prevent them from annoying you.

6. Fit Yourself Physically

The Poon Hill trek is moderate and suitable for beginners, but preparation is always better. The trek has long staircases, steep ascents (especially to Ulleri), and a number of altitude adjustments. In September, slippery trails due to mud can make trekking more tiring. Start preparing at least 4–6 weeks prior with cardio exercises, stair climbing, and long walks carrying a heavy backpack. Emphasize leg strength and endurance, and if feasible, do short hikes in rainy or humid weather to mimic trail conditions. Building core strength and balance also benefits, particularly when walking on slippery stones. Being in shape means you’ll enjoy the trek more, face less fatigue, and reduce your risk of injury on slippery trails. Stretching and warm-ups each morning during the trek will help avoid muscle soreness.

7. Carry Cash for the Entire Trek

While Pokhara has ATMs and currency exchanges, there are no ATM facilities along the Poon Hill trail. September might see a peak of early trekkers, and teahouses might not accept digital payments. Carry enough Nepalese rupees to cover food, accommodation, snacks, water, and tips. Allocate around NPR 3,000 to NPR 4,000 per day in Poon Hill Trek, depending on your expenses. Costs increase a bit with altitude, and things like bottled water or snacks are more expensive at places like Ghorepani. Carry small denominations to avoid change issues. It is advisable to keep a waterproof cash pouch or ziplock bag due to the ongoing wet weather and humidity. Avoid relying on card payments or mobile payments beyond major towns. It is always safer to have some emergency funds in hand in case of unexpected expenses or circumstances.

8. Obtain Permits in Advance

There are two permits required for the Poon Hill Trek: TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit). Both can be picked up in Pokhara or Kathmandu, but if you're trekking in September, it is better to get them picked up in Pokhara (along the trailhead). September sometimes has late monsoon holdups or local holidays that wreak havoc on office hours, so plan a day in advance to avoid last-minute issues. Take two passport photographs and a copy of your passport. The ACAP is NPR 3,000 and the TIMS is NPR 2,000 for independent trekkers (less if with a guide). Permits are checked at Birethanti checkpoint, so don't lose them. Store them safely in a waterproof pouch, and ensure your emergency contact and itinerary details are up to date in the forms.

9. Be Flexible with Itinerary

September weather is unpredictable—mornings may be good, but afternoons tend to bring cloud cover or rain. Keep your day open to see the sunrise from Poon Hill best. The best part of this trek is the view, and a rainy or foggy day might obscure the Himalayas. Weather reports can warn against poor weather, so an additional night at Ghorepani can be included with another sunrise attempt. It's a good idea to have an extra buffer day on your itinerary to cover for weather holdup, road landslide, or boredom hiking from sloppy trails. Flexibility yields a greater and more serene experience rather than hurriedly rushing against time. Locals and guides can give good clues about the weather, so heed their advice if changing the plan can treat you to a greater view or better conditions for trails.

10. Choose the Right Guide or Porter

A guide with a license would make a big difference for your September trek  to Poon Hill. Trails may be overgrown or slippery following monsoon, and residents are aware of safer alternative routes, weather trends, and accommodation contacts. A guide helps navigate, interpret culture, and arrange logistics like reservations at teahouses or transportation. Porters will carry your load, so you can focus on enjoying the trail. September's wet conditions can be draining, and smaller packs prevent tiredness or damage. Ensure that your guide is registered and proficient in English or your native language. Pre-booking many of the guides at Pokhara or online through agencies is feasible. A combination porter-guide (one person playing both roles) is ideal for budget or lone travelers. Tipping is necessary—be prepared to tip 10–15% of the total cost of the trek. Support ethical recruitment by choosing locally run agencies that treat employees well.

Final Words

 Poon Hill Trek in September enjoys the most favorable weather and widest Himalayan panoramas. Skies in the fall are nonetheless mostly clear toward the beginning of the season. The monsoons taper, but new leafiness and fresh-picked paths prevail. It's 10°C to 20°C temperatures each day in September. Nights are around 5°C, especially higher up. Air is brisk and refreshing and good for a trek.

From Poon Hill (3,210m), the trekkers see  spectacular Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Nilgiri (7,061m) in September. The sun rises over summits in golden color. The 360-degree panorama rewards every step. The trail goes through rhododendron forest, scenic villages, and hillside terracing.

Kathmandu to Pokhara is accessible by tourist bus or flight for your Poon Hill Trek in September. Jeeps and local buses from Pokhara go up to Ulleri or Banthanti. Roads can be rugged but picturesque. Hot meals, dal bhat, noodles, and momo are provided by tea houses on the route. Sleeping accommodation is in nice lodges with basic facilities and hot meals.

September's stable weather offers secure trekking and great visibility during your Poon Hill Trek. Trails are less crowded than in October. You get the best view of the mountains without much interruption. Early autumn has something mystical with flowers in flower and great views.

Pack rain gear for extended showers while doing Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in September. Wear layers for changing temperatures. Bring trekking poles for steep inclines. Start early to see sunrise from Poon Hill. Reserve lodges in advance during festival time.

September is ideal time for the Poon Hill Trek. Its good weather, fertile landscape, and mountain views create an unforgettable experience. Prepare well and embrace the Poon Hill trek in September for a breathtaking Himalayan experience.