Spectacular mountains and rural ethnic villages.
An interesting and relatively easy trek through picturesque mountain villages, forests of bright rhododendron and a variety of ethnic groups and cultures. Winding your way up terraced hillsides pass through villages of the Gurung and Chhetri peoples and emerge onto ridges to indulge in incredible views. The highlight, and high point, of the trek is Poon Hill, which offers the best panoramic views of the high Himalaya in Nepal – Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and the mesmerizing fish-tail pinnacle of Machhapuchhre.
Day 1: Drive to Pokhara or you may choose to fly (USD 98 one way – 35mins).
Days 2-3: Begin walking after the 2-hour drive to Birethanti. A wide trail leads through bamboo forests and pasture at Tikedungha. The next morning drop down to cross the Bhurungdi Khola before climbing the step stone staircase to the Magar village of Ulleri – – reputedly there are 3767 steps, the toughest section of the trek. As you climb the peaks of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli emerge from behind the foothills. Pasture and cultivated fields soon give way to deep forests of oak and rhododendron.
Days 4-6: An early hour-long climb up to Poon Hill (3190m) provides a spectacular, unobstructed view of the high Himalaya. The trail initially climbs through thick forest before emerging to further resplendent views, eventually reaching the Gurung village of Ghandrung. Continuing via Dhampus to Phedi the trail crosses the Modi Khola and a number of its tributaries, commanding views marking most of the route. From Phedi it is an hour’s drive to Pokhara.
Day 7: Return to Kathmandu, again you may choose to fly.
