Poon Hill Trek in May

Poon Hill Trek 

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a short and picturesque trek in the Annapurna region, which is appropriate for beginners and nature lovers. This Poon Hill Trekking route offers spectacular mountain views of entire Annapurna range including, charming local villages, and lush rhododendron forests in Annapurna Conservation Area.

The main highlight of Poon hill Trek is the viewpoint at Poon Hill, which is at 3,210m and offers breathtaking views of sunrise over Annapurna 8,091m, Dhaulagiri 8,167m, Machhapuchhre 6,993m, and Manaslu 8,163m. It follows the trek via Tikhedhunga 1,540m, Ulleri 2,050m, Ghorepani 2,874m, and Ghandruk 1,940m. 

Alternatively, you can directly to go Ulleri or Banthanti by jeep from Pokhara via Nayapool and Birethanti.

The trek to Ghorepani - Poon Hill starts from Nayapul (classical Poon Hill Trek) at 1,070m and ends at Ghandruk or Nayapul. It follows all the way through amazing waterfalls, forests, and typical Gurung and Magar villages. Similarly, the Ghorepani Trek also offers cultural experiences with local hospitality. You can begin your Ghorepani Poon hill trek from Ulleri or Banthanti directly these days if you want to skip a days hiking to Ulleri from Birethanti and Tikehdhunga.

For accessing the Pun Hill trek, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card are necessary. These permits guarantee access to the protected area, Annapurna Conservation Area.

Read Our Other Blog Posts Related to 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

Accommodation in Poon hill trek is available in teahouses, which offer basic rooms and traditional Nepali food such as Dal Bhat, momo, and noodles. Warm hospitality of the local people on the trail makes the Poon hill  trek comfortable and exciting.

Transportation: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and Ulleri or Ghandruk and back. Private jeeps or public buses are available from Pokhara to Ghandruk or Ulleri.

Poon Hill Trek is graded as an easy to moderate trek and thus is suitable for every level of fitness. Basic training, good trekking shoes, and clothes to be worn on layers are essential.

Poon Hill trekking is best during the spring and autumn seasons. The Trek is ideal for those in the quest of really amazing Himalayan views along with cultural experience in a very short time. Spring and Autumn will offer the trekkers best times of the year for trekking and photography.

Poon Hill Trek in May

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in May is considered one of the best and most beautiful treks in Nepal due to its clear skies, warm temperatures, and vibrant landscapes.

During Poon Hill Trekking in May, the temperature varies from 10°C to 25°C throughout the day and drops to 5°C to 10°C at night.

Nevertheless, the trails on Poon Hill Trek in May are in really good condition, only that some places get a little slippery due to the occasional pre-monsoon showers.

Though in May, the rhododendron forests start to fade away, which was fully in bloom in April, the greenery and mountain views are just spectacular in Poon Hill.

Similarly, the lodges that line up in the Poon Hill Trek in May are well-equipped with comfortable rooms and warm blankets, along with basic amenities.

Do you know one thing that you can get a good massage at Ghorepani village? YES, you can enjoy it. But for this, you have to make a prior booking.

The nutrition value for trekkers on the Poon Hill trek in May includes food items like Nepali dal bhat, momo, pasta, noodles, and different soups. One can enjoy all kind of international meals in Ghorepani and Ghandruk village during your Poon Hill Trek in May.

The mountain scenery from Poon Hill in May is still spectacular with clear mornings offering breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri.

One of the challenges during the Poon Hill Trek in May is that the trails will be damp with increasing humidity and occasional rain showers in the afternoons as the Month of May is pre- summer time. 

Another challenge during the month of May at Poon Hill is the late-afternoon cloudiness that might cover the summit and affect the sunset views.

Though there might be minor obstacles, Poon Hill in May is an equally great time for trekking: warm weather and clear skies in the mornings, and fewer crowds compared to the peak months in spring.

Highlights of Poon Hill Trek in May

1. Breathtaking Sunrise View of the Himalayas

Poon Hill (3,210m) in May offers a panoramic sunrise over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu ranges.

In May, the sky is usually clearer in the early morning, enhancing the golden glow on snow-capped peaks.

2. Favorable Spring Weather

Daytime temperatures in Poon hill in May range from 15°C to 20°C, perfect for trekking.

Nights and early mornings can be cool, ranging from 5°C to 10°C, but not freezing as it is during the winter.

Fewer chances of snowfall and extreme cold compared to other months.

3. Rhododendron Blooms in Full Glory

The trails through Ghorepani and Tadapani in Poon hill in May are vibrant with red, pink, and white rhododendron flowers.

This natural spectacle fades after May, making it a unique experience with the spectacular mountain views from Poon hill, Tadapani, Ghorepani and Ghndruk village.

4. Moderate Trail Conditions

The trails in Poon hill in May are drier than in monsoon months, reducing the risk of slippery paths.

Unlike winter, there's no heavy snow and heavy rain to block the Poon Hill trails in May.

5. Wildlife and Bird watching

May  is a good time for Himalayan monals, langurs, and musk deer in Poon hill trek in Annapurna Conservation Area.

Lush forests around Ghorepani and Banthanti are full of bird activity. Birds lovers will really love Poon hill trek in May.

6. Longer Daylight Hours

More daylight hours- up to 13 hours-allows flexibility in the trekking schedule in Poon hill Trekking in May.

No early morning rush compared to winter days with shorter daylight hours.

7. Cultural and Festive Vibes

 Ghorepani Poon hill in May coincides with Buddha Jayanti and provides an insight into Buddhist traditions in villages.

Local Gurung and Magar people celebrate various spring rituals.

8. Best Time for Photography

 Poon hill trekking in May has Vibrant landscapes with a bloom of flowers, green hills, and snow-capped peaks.

Hazy conditions begin increasing in late May, although mornings stay crystal clear permitting the trekkers to make astonishing photographs.

9. Comfortable Tea House Stays

 Ghoirepani Trek in Spring finds the tea houses well-stocked before the off-season begins.

Unlike the peak autumn season, accommodations are not overcrowded in the month of May in Poon hill.

May is that time of the year when this region offers all ideal weather and scenic beauty to Poon Hill trekkers along with other cultural experiences.

Pros and Cons of Poon Hill Trek in May 

As a month of post spring and pre-monsoon period of the Poon Hill trek, it brings some advantages and disadvantages as well. Here are  major advantages and disadvantages of the Poon Hill trek in May.

Pros of Poon Hill Trek in May

1. Clear Morning View of Himalayas

Generally, the mornings are clear enough to provide fantastic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Nilgiri in Poon hill trek in May.

For Example: Poon Hill (3,210m) at sunrise shows a golden glow over the peaks, which is indeed a breathtaking view for trekkers.

2. Blooming Rhododendrons and Greenery

May is the tail of the spring season; thus, forests are in full bloom of rhododendrons with different colors along with magnolias and oaks during your Poon hill trek.

 For Example: The trail going from Ghorepani to Tadapani is taken over by rhododendron flowers - in red and pink color-make the trek exciting.

3. Comfortable Temperatures

It reaches a temperature from 15° to 25° during the day, but at night around 5° to 10°, so neither too hot nor too cold in Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking in May.

 For Example: Trekking in the daytime feels pleasant in light clothes only, reducing much load of gears.

4. Good Availability of Food and Accommodation

Since it is not the peak season unlike March-April, the tea houses have enough room and option for food also available.

 For Example: Popular lodges in Ghorepani, Ulleri, and Tadapani offer dal bhat, momo, pancakes, and tea with no long waiting time to get the food served.

5. Easier Transportation and Accessibility

Roads to Nayapul/ Ulleri or Ghandruk (starting points) remain open and frequent buses and jeeps from Pokhara are easily available.

 For Example: Unlike during the monsoon season, no landslides or roadblocks disrupt the way, hence it is easier to travel.

Cons of Poon Hill Trek in May

1. Possibility of Afternoon Clouds and Haze

May is almost in the monsoon season, so afternoons are cloudy and hazy, with poor mountain visibility in Poon hill Trek.  For Example: The sunrise at Poon Hill may be clear, while at noon, peaks such as Annapurna South are hidden.

2. Hot and Sweaty Conditions of Trekking

The lower altitude parts, including Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, may get hot and humid, and upward climbs may be very tiring.  For Example: Hiking 3,200 stone steps to Ulleri feels exhausting in the strong midday sun.

3. Pre-Monsoon Rain during May

May can also receive some pre-monsoon rain that might make the trails somewhat slippery and muddy in Ghorepani Poon hill Trek.

 For Example: Trekking from Banthanti to Tadapani in the afternoon might need rain jackets due to sudden rains.

4.  Rare Wild Life Sightings 

Animals such as langurs, musk deer, and Himalayan monals, the national bird of Nepal, are harder to see since the heavy forest cover.

 For Example: Unlike during the winter months, they come down during winters for heat; during May, they stay deep inside the forest.

5. Slightly Higher Trekking Costs

Though not peak season, May still sees moderate tourist flow, leading to standard tea house pricing, the prices of meals and accommodations may slighty go up while trekking to Poon hill in May.

 For Example: A room in Ghorepani or Tadapani costs around $5-$10, while food prices are slightly inflated in remote areas. Check the menu and accommodation during your Poon hill trek in May and make the right choice.

May offers comfortable temperatures, clear mountain views in the morning, and blooming forests, but occasional rain, warm conditions, and afternoon clouds have to be catered for by trekkers. It is best to begin early in the morning for trekking and with light rain gear.

What is the temperature like in Poon Hill in May? 

In May, Poon Hill and the surrounding villages, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk, also have mild to warm temperatures, which are considered one of the best months for trekking. The spring season is in full bloom, with rhododendrons adding to the beauty of the trail alongside lush greenery. Generally, the skies are clear in the morning, offering great sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, though it is not uncommon to see afternoon clouds and short rain showers.

Poon Hill (3,210m): This place usually changes between 5°C and 15°C; mornings and evenings are cold. The day is good for trekking, but a warm jacket is required for early hikes to the viewpoint.

Ghorepani (2,874m): The temperature ranges from 7°C to 18°C. It has a cool climate with fresh mountain air; during some days, there is mist in the evening.

Tadapani (2,630m): Temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C; it is partly sunny and partly cloudy. The surroundings of dense forest keep the atmosphere humid.

Ghandruk (1,940m): As this is relatively a lower altitude, the temperature lies between 12°C to 25°C. The day remains warm and comfortable, and the nights are cool.

Suggested Itinerary for Poon Hill Trek in May

5-Day Poon Hill Trek Itinerary (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)

Poon Hill Trek is a short rewarding trek in the Annapurna region; it offers panoramic mountain views, beautiful rhododendron forests, and charming Gurung villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk. Poon HIll Trek is shorter and easier than Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara 

Mode of Travel: Flight (25 min) / Drive (6-7 hrs) to Pokhara  

Distance: Kathmandu to Pokhara - 200 km, 

Drive Duration: 6-7 hrs (by road) / 25 min flight 

Elevation: Kathmandu (1,400m) → Pokhara (822m) 

Highlights: Scenic drive or flight, 

Day 2: Pokhara to Ulleri( Drive) trek to Ghorepani

Distance: 27 km

Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs, Drive Duration-3 hrs.

Elevation: Tikhedhunga (1,540m) → Ulleri (2,050m) → Ghorepani (2,860m)

Highlights: Steep climb to Ulleri if you don’t drive to Ulleri from Pokhara,  more than 3,000 stone steps, rhododendron forests, and ranges Annapurna & Dhaulagiri. 

Day 3: Ghorepani to Poon Hill → Tadapani Distance: 12 km Trek Duration: 6-7 hrs Elevation: Ghorepani (2,860m) → Poon Hill (3,210m) → Tadapani (2,630m) Highlights: Early Morning: Start for Poon Hill, 45 minutes, 400m ascent, catching sunrise above Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre After Breakfast: Rhododendron forests, waterfalls, trekking on scenic ridges to Tadapani

Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk → Pokhara

Distance: 10 km trek + 3-4 hr drive

Trek Duration: 3-4 hrs

Elevation: Tadapani (2,630m) → Ghandruk (1,940m) → Pokhara (822m)

Highlights:

Short and scenic descent to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village with Annapurna views

Visit the Gurung Museum and traditional houses

Drive back to Pokhara (2.5-3 hrs)

Day 5: Pokhara to Kathmandu (Flight or Drive)

Mode of Travel: Flight (25 min) or Drive (6-7 hrs)

Distance: 200 km

Highlights: Free day in Pokhara boating on the lakeside and back to Kathmandu. Key Information: Best Time to Trek: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (Sept-Nov) Permits Required: TIMS Card, ACAP Difficult Easy to Moderate Accommodation: Teahouses/Lodges

Preparations for Poon Hill Trek in May 

Poon Hill Trek starting in May is usually combined with good weather and visible natural beauty. The top ten preparations to be made for a successful and enjoyable experience are highlighted below: 

1.Necessary permits

Before commencing the Ghorepani Poon HIll trekking, necessary permits should be acquired. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit: This permit is compulsory for entry into the Annapurna region.

TIMS Card: This is a factor considered in order to keep track of the trekkers for their movement and safety.

Both permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Have passport-sized photos and a copy of your passport for the application process.

2. Understand the Weather Conditions

May is a month that usually sees mild temperatures and clear skies, hence perfect for trekking. However, as the month wears on, pre-monsoon showers strike, bringing along humidity and bouts of rain. Be prepared for variable weather at times, and cooler temperatures when at higher altitudes.

3. Pack Appropriate Clothing and Gear

Given the likelihood of temperature fluctuation and the possibility of rain, pack the following:

Clothing: Light, trekking pants, t-shirts that promise moisture wicking, a fleece or jacket to put on in the evenings, and a raincoat.

Footwear: Robust, comfortable shoes for trekking with great grip.

Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, gloves, buff, or scarf.

Rain Gear: Rainproof backpack cover, quick-drying clothes.

Remember to travel light but keep in your luggage those items necessary in various types of weather.

4.Transportation- Make Arrangements

The normal starting point for the Poon Hill Trek is Nayapul, and it is accessible from Pokhara. Optionally, you can begin your Poon hill trek in May from Ulleri or Ghandruk as well with the access of Jeep ride from Pokhara.

 You can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu via a 6-8 hour bus ride or a 25-minute flight. From Ghandruk or Ulleri, you will be able to hire a private vehicle or take a local bus to Nayapul. It is better to book your transportation options in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons like in Autumn and Spring.

5. Plan Your Accommodation

Poon Hill Trek is well trekked with teahouses providing basic facilities. As booking in advance is not always possible and also when trekking independently, it is better to reach the destination of each day early to find a place especially during the month of May.

6. Prepare Physically

Although considered an easy to moderate trek, the Poon Hill route has substantial ascents and descents. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practice hikes to build stamina and reduce the risk of injury in you Poon hill trek in May. In case it rains, the trek becomes more challenging.

7. Stay Hydrated and Manage Water Sources

Bring with you a refillable water bottle and water purification tablets or a filtration system. Although teahouses offer bottled water, the purifying techniques are much friendlier to the environment and cheaper. Adequate consumption is necessary to stay hydrated, especially when temperature might vary.

You can get bottled water and boiled water on the local lodges along the Poon hill trail in May. 

8. Acclimatize Properly

The highest point of the trek is Poon Hill at 3,210 meters. While the risk of altitude sickness is low, it's important to listen to your body. Take your time, ascend gradually, and ensure proper rest to acclimate effectively before going up to Poon Hill for the sunrise and mountain views.

9.Budget Accordingly

On average, a 5-day Poon Hill Trek will cost between US$200-400, which includes accommodation, meals, permits, and transportation. Bring adequate cash in Nepalese Rupees, since ATMs on the trail are not common. It is wise to have some extra for those unexpected expenses.

You can get some ATMS in Ghandruk village these days. You can try it there if you are short of money. 

10. Respect Customs and the Local Environment

The trail passes through Gurung and Magar villages. Dress modestly, and ask before photographing locals; be respectful. Follow the Leave No Trace principles: pack in-pack out all trash, minimize campfire impacts, and avoid wildlife disturbance. Staying in local teahouses and buying local products helps support the community as well.

You can buy the souvenirs at Ghandruk and Ghorepani village in your Poon hill Trek in May if you like to collect them.

Those trekkers who prepare meticulously for these will surely enjoy the scenic views and cultural richness in May on Poon Hill.

Final Words

In comparison, the Poon Hill trek in May is unique because it features spectacular Himalaya panoramas, a carpet of emerald, full blossoming rhododendron forests, and satisfactory trek conditions. The weather in May is mild, and the skies are clear, offering great opportunities to view golden sunrises over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri that make every step worth it. On the route, there are charming villages of Gurung and Magar people that have welcomed trekkers with warmth and gave a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of the locals.

This short and rewarding trek is best done in May when the trails are alive with vibrant-colored flora, teeming with refreshing energy brought by spring. The trek is graded as easy to moderately difficult, which makes it feasible for both amateur and experienced trekkers. 

Be an adventure-seeker, a nature lover, or a photography enthusiast-Poon Hill in May is going to be an unforgettable journey. So pack your luggage, lace up your boots, and take this overwhelming trek to witness Nepal's natural beauty at its finest! Enjoy fabulous Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre in Poon hill trek in May.

Don’t forget to pack rain cover or rain poncho while ascending Poon hill and Ghorepani in May in case it rains.