Waking Up Above the Clouds: My PoonHill Trek Adventure

I Wanted to See the Mountains Smile

There was one reason I chose the Poon Hill Trek to see the sun rise over the Himalayas. I had seen pictures before I ever stepped on a trail. Snowy peaks glowing gold in the morning light. Trekkers wrapped in scarves, holding warm mugs of tea. Smiles on their faces. Calm in their eyes. I wanted that moment. I wanted to feel it for myself. So, I packed my bag, tied my boots, and joined a few close friends for a journey I’ll never forget. I didn’t know it then, but this short trek would open my heart, clear my mind, and show me the simple magic of walking in the mountains.

What Is the PoonHill Trek?

The PoonHill Trek is one of Nepal’s most loved short hikes. It’s not too high and not too long, which makes it great for beginners—or for people who just want a taste of the Himalayas without going too extreme. You don’t need to be a mountain expert. You just need to enjoy nature, be ready to walk a few hours a day, and carry a bit of patience and wonder with you. The trail winds through small villages, deep green forests, and long stretches of stone steps that seem to go on forever. But with every step, the views get better, and the air feels fresher. The higher you go, the more peaceful it gets.

Quick Trek Facts

Location: Annapurna Region, Nepal

Average Length: 4 to 5 days

Total Distance: Around 40 kilometers (25 miles)

Highest Point: PoonHill Viewpoint – 3,210 meters (10,531 feet)

Best Time to Go: March to May (spring) or September to November (autumn)

Steps, Smiles, and Sore Legs

Our trek began in a small town called Nayapul, a few hours from Pokhara. That first day was smooth and peaceful. We walked along a quiet river, passed a few farms, and enjoyed the sound of birds in the trees. We laughed, took photos, and talked about the days ahead. But things got tougher fast. On the second day, we hit the stone stairs. Thousands of them. I’d never climbed so many steps in my life. My legs ached. My backpack felt heavier with every hour. At one point, I sat on a rock and thought, “Why am I doing this?” Then I looked around. There were bright red rhododendron flowers blooming in the forest. Water rushed in a stream below us. A group of smiling school kids waved and shouted “Namaste!” as they passed. My tired legs didn’t feel so heavy after that. So, I stood up. And kept going.

The Big Moment on PoonHill

On the final morning, we woke up at 4:30 a.m. It was freezing cold and pitch dark outside. We wore thick jackets, wool hats, and headlamps as we climbed up the final hill to the PoonHill viewpoint. There were others on the trail too some whispering, some walking in silence. Everyone was excited for what was coming. And then, it happened.The sky began to change color. From deep black to blue. Then orange, pink, and gold. The first light hit the tips of the mountains.There they were Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the fish-tail-shaped Machhapuchhre. Huge, silent, and glowing like fire. It was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. No one spoke. Some people cried. We all just stood there, watching, breathing, smiling. It felt like time stopped.

More Than Just a Hike

This trek gave me more than pretty views. It gave me peace. It reminded me how strong I can b even when I want to quit. It helped me feel more connected to nature, to others, and to myself. Every night, we stayed in small tea houses run by kind locals. We drank ginger tea and warm soup. We shared stories with trekkers from around the world. Some were from Europe, some from Asia, and some from right there in Nepal. One night in Ghorepani, a cozy village near the viewpoint, I learned to say “thank you” in Nepali dhanyabad. It felt good to say it. I said it a lot after that.

Would I Do It Again?

Yes. A hundred times, yes. The PoonHill Trek is short, but the memories are big. You don’t need fancy gear or years of training. You just need to show up, take it step by step, and let the mountains work their magic. It’s the kind of journey that stays with you. When I close my eyes, I still see the sunrise. I still feel the cold air on my face and hear the quiet of the hills. If you’re thinking of going, don’t wait. The trail is calling. And trust me it’s worth every step.