Trek planning
Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp? Choosing Your First Nepal Trek
Six days to a famous sunrise viewpoint, or twelve days into the Annapurna Sanctuary? How the two treks compare on difficulty, altitude, time and price.
By Shiva GiriPublished 5 min read
Both treks start near Pokhara and share the same beautiful first days through rhododendron forest and Gurung villages. The difference is how far — and how high — you go.
| Poon Hill | Annapurna Base Camp | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6 days | 12 days |
| Highest point | 3,210 m (Poon Hill) | 4,130 m (base camp) |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate, beginner-friendly | Moderate, with many stone steps |
| Altitude sickness risk | Low | Real — acclimatise carefully |
| Highlight | Sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna | Standing inside a ring of giant peaks |
| From (per person) | $700 | $1,200 |
| Homestay nights included | 1 | 2 |
Choose Poon Hill if…
- You're new to trekking or short on time.
- You're trekking with children (around eight and older with basic fitness).
- You'd rather avoid high altitude.
Choose Annapurna Base Camp if…
- You have about two weeks and good fitness.
- You want to stand among the high Himalaya.
- You're happy to walk 5–7 hours on most days.
Both treks start and finish at Sacred Trails, with permits, licensed guides and teahouses organised. Leave your spare luggage with us while you walk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Poon Hill good for beginners?
Yes — it's the most beginner-friendly of the classic treks, with short days and a highest point of 3,210 m.
Can I do Annapurna Base Camp without experience?
Yes, if you have good fitness and follow a sensible acclimatisation plan. No technical skills are needed.
