Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Nepal
- Around 25% of the population in Nepal are living below the poverty line.
- Malnutrition is particually evident in children under 5, with 36% enduring stunting.
- Children from poor families have low attendence at school, with 1 in 4 of the poorest not going to school at all.
- Nepal can experience natural disasters, such as earthquakes. This can severly impact the local structures and roads.
- Much of Nepal's population lacks access to basic medical care.
WHAT Is Involved on the Poon Hill Trek?
- Trek through Annapurna’s most famous trail, surrounded by stunning Himalayan views.
- Walk through rhododendron forests, charming villages, and terraced farmlands.
- Experience daily trekking life, including early morning starts and walking 6-8 hours per day.
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from Poon Hill.
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Organisation & Charity
- Over 35+ Years Expertise Globally
- Low Program Fees - From US$295
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: POON HILL TREK
LOCATION: KATHMANDU, NEPAL
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: TEA HOUSES
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required
Overview
The Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular short treks, offering an incredible mix of natural beauty and cultural discovery in just a few days. Winding through lush rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and terraced farmlands, the trail provides a perfect introduction to trekking in the Annapurna region.
The highlight of the journey is the early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), where you’ll be greeted with one of the most unforgettable sunrises in the Himalayas. On clear mornings, the panorama reveals Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and countless other snowcapped peaks glowing in golden light.
This trek is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels, making it ideal for those seeking an authentic Himalayan trekking experience without the challenges of extreme altitude.
Trip Highlights
- Walk one of Annapurna’s most famous trekking routes with stunning mountain views at every turn
- Witness the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill’s iconic viewpoint
- Stay in cozy tea houses and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Gurung people
- Trek through vibrant rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and terraced hillsides
- Taste local Nepali meals along the trail, from Dal Bhat to hearty soups
- Immerse yourself in Nepalese traditions, village life, and mountain culture
Your Role as a Trekker
As a participant, you will:
- Interact with locals in mountain villages, gaining insight into daily Himalayan life
- Embrace trekking routines with early morning starts and 6–8 hours of walking each day
- Support the local economy by staying in family-run tea houses and eating traditional meals
- Visit villages, temples, and cultural sites to learn about Nepalese history and traditions
- Challenge yourself physically, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the rewards of active travel
Trekking Essentials
Safe Drinking Water
- Purified water (using chlorine drops or purification tablets) will be provided
- Bottled water is available to buy, though carrying a reusable bottle with a filter is strongly recommended
Trekking Guide
- A trained and experienced trekking guide will lead the group
- Guides are responsible for safety, navigation, and managing any trekking-related issues
- English may be basic, but guides are skilled in first aid, altitude awareness, and emergency response
Daily Routine
- Expect to walk 6–8 hours per day, with breaks for rest and meals
- The trek’s highest point is Poon Hill (3,210m)
- The trail includes stone stairways, forest paths, and scenic ridgelines
Location
Kathmandu, the capital and largest city in Nepal, is an incredible place! The contrast of decaying buildings, smell of incense, street sellers, historic temples and incredible mountain views will invigorate your senses and keep you inspired to learn more about the amazing history and culture. For several hundred years, Kathmandu was one of three rival royal cities, along with Bhaktapur and Patan. The highlight of Kathmandu has long been Durbar Square, the largest of the palace squares in the three royal cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Temples and monuments of varying shapes, sizes, styles, and faiths can be found here. This small, mountain-sheltered valley is the historical centre of Nepal, a place where kingdoms rose and fell, where palaces and temples were built and rebuilt, and where Nepali art and culture was developed and refined.
Project Tasks
This program aims to bring you closer to authentic Nepal and the majestic Himalayas and truly immerse you in the Nepali culture, customs and lifestyle.
Food & Accommodation
On the Trek
- Overnight stays in tea houses (simple mountain lodges) along the trail
- Rooms are basic with twin beds and shared bathrooms
- Hot showers and Wi-Fi may be available for an additional fee in some locations
- Breakfast and dinner at tea houses; lunch at trailside restaurants
- Typical meals include Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, potatoes, soups, and some Western dishes like pasta or pizza
- Drinks, snacks, and beer can be purchased along the route
Kathmandu
Located in the heart of Kathmandu, about 1 hours drive from the airport, with 4-6 people sharing one room (single gender rooms). They have modern bathrooms; a modern kitchen and dining room, mini library, a fully furnished living room, wifi, TV, computer, DVD player, fans, live-in staff on call 24/7, a garden complete with a comfortable covered area and 24/7 security. Centrally located, there are several gym’s nearby as well as local supermarkets, ATM’s, mobile phone shops etc.
You will be provided with three meals a day on weekdays and two meals per day on weekends. The meals are a mix of Western and Nepalese food, consisting mainly of vegetarian dishes including rice and vegetables. You can expect to have a chicken dish about once per week. You can also choose to eat out at any of the local restaurants.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
Adventure
& Trekking
- Nepal Adventure Week
- 4 Week Annapurna Base Camp Trek
-4 Week Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
-4 Week Nepal Volunteering Road Trip
-Panchase Trek Week
- 2 Week Buddhist Monastery Immersion
- 1 Week Poon Hill Trek
- 1 Week Pikey Peak Trek
-
Adventure Week
$590 -
4 Week Annapurna Base
Camp
$1450 -
4 Week Everest Base
Camp
$2250 -
28 Day Road Trip
$2160 -
Panchase Trek
$620 -
Poon Hill Trek
$680 -
Pikey Peak Trek
$820 -
Buddhist Monastery
Immersion
$980
What's Included
-
Accommodation
-
Meals
-
Airport Pickup
-
Local Transportation
-
1 Day Orientation
-
24/7 In-Country Support
-
Project Materials & Equipment
-
Pre-departure Expert Advice
-
Preperation Tools & Checklists
-
Certificate of Completion
Testimonials...
FAQ
Due to the length and active nature of this program, a decent level of fitness is required.
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). You must arrive between the hours 06:00 to 24:00 on Sunday.
If arriving outside the pickup times, you can book a private transfer or extra night for an additional fee.
Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).
From the airport to Kathmandu accommodation, it takes 45 minutes by taxi.
Sunday
- Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km)
- Overnight at a local guesthouse in Pokhara
Monday
- Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (1,577m)
- Two-hour drive to Nayapul (1070m) and start trekking following Bhurung Khola
- Overnight stay at Tikhedhunga Lodge
Tuesday
- Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,855m)
- Ascend to Ulleri Village through a pleasant Rhododendron forest and arrive at the top of Ghorepani pass
- Overnight stay at a lodge
Wednesday
- Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,680m)
- Early wake up and walk up to Poon Hill for one hour to observe the sun-rise and a magnificent mountain view
- Walk back to Ghorepani for breakfast and start trekking to Tadapani
- Overnight stay at O/n Lodge
Thursday
- Tadapani (2,680m) to Pothana (1980m)
- After enjoying spectacular views from Tadapani, we will trek passing through the deep mossy forest toward Ghandruk village to Pothana. It is one of the most renowned settlements ofthe Gurung tribe of Nepal and a cultural inhabitant of the Annapurna trail.
- Overnight stay at a lodge
Friday
- Pothana to Pokhara (820m)
- About 3-4 hours easy way down via Dhampus village to Phedi
- Drive to Pokhara
- Overnight stay at a local guesthouse
On Saturday we drive back to Kathmandu.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***
Special Needs The weekends are always open for your leisure. The local team will assist you in organising additional travel plans with heaps of local knowledge. Shopping in Kathmandu is an experience all its own. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hotspot, is where shoppers can find Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian artifacts, woodcarvings, handicraft and an assortments of unique clothing and apparel. There are also several malls where you can find fashionable clothing and grocery stores, offering everything from wine to breakfast cereals. There are numerous dining options available throughout the city, including Italian, Indian, Thai, Korean and Chinese in addition to a variety of local cuisine.
Additional Requirements
Due to the length and active nature of this program, a decent level of fitness is required.
Additional Equipment
Essential Gear & Equipment
Make sure you pack wisely to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience. Below is a recommended packing list categorized for easy reference.
Head & Face Protection
- Sun hat or baseball cap (for sun protection)
- Warm fleece or wool hat (covers ears, essential for winter)
- Sunglasses (UV protection, polarized preferred)
- Scarf or buff (for dust, wind, and warmth)
Clothing – Lower Body
- Hiking shorts (1 pair, for warm weather)
- Lightweight trekking pants (1–2 pairs)
- Thermal leggings (for warmth in winter)
- Fleece or tracksuit pants (for extra warmth or lounging)
Clothing – Upper Body
- T-shirts (quick-dry, breathable)
- Lightweight thermal base layers (for cold conditions)
- Fleece or long-sleeve tops (for warmth)
- Down vest or jacket (for extra insulation in winter)
- Waterproof poncho or rain jacket
Footwear
- Thin cotton liner socks
- Thick wool hiking socks (for warmth and blister prevention)
- Hiking boots (sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in)
- Sandals or camp shoes (for evenings and river crossings)
- Walking poles (collapsible, optional but recommended)
Hand Protection
- Lightweight fleece gloves (for winter)
Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
- Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
- Pillowcase or small travel pillow
Personal & Medical Supplies
- Personal medical kit (consult your doctor for a full list)
- Prescription medications (if required)
- Basic first aid items (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads)
- Pain relievers (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox if recommended)
Toiletries & Hygiene
- Quick-dry towel & face cloth
- Biodegradable shampoo & conditioner
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Multipurpose wipes (face & body)
- Deodorant
- Face & body moisturizer
- Nail clippers & file
- Small comb or brush
- Biodegradable laundry soap
- Toilet paper (can buy more during the trek)
- Hand sanitizer (small bottle)
- High UV protection sunscreen
- Lip balm with UV protection
- Feminine hygiene products (bring enough for the trip)
Accessories & Miscellaneous
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Dry bags or ziplock bags (for waterproofing valuables)
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Watch with light & alarm
- Backpack rain cover
- Day pack (for essentials during trekking)
- Money belt (for storing cash & passport)
Extras (Optional but Recommended)
- Camera & extra batteries
- Binoculars
- Journal & pen
- Trail map & guidebook
- Energy/protein bars
- Playing cards (for entertainment)
- Small book or e-reader
- Steripen or water purification tablets
***Make sure to pack no heavier than 15kg after fully packed.***
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: NP – Holidays – All Programs
Nepal is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world. Nepal first opened its borders to outsiders in the 1950s. It is home to Mount Everest, the birthplace of Buddha, and an astonishingly beautiful landscape, ranging from the well-known peaks of the Himalaya to the low-lying regions of the Terai.
The Nepali people are as diverse at the geography, with over 70 languages or dialects and scores of traditional festivals celebrated throughout the year.
However, Nepal is also one of the most under-developed countries in the world, with low rates of literacy, high rates of poverty and a persistent gender imbalance. The government is frequently unable to provide adequate education and health facilities throughout the country and both urban and rural areas are forced to live without necessary resources to promote growth and development of their communities.
Nepal is a year round destination, and the cliate can vary between the North and South regions. The best overall times to visit are during spring and autumn (particually for trekking).
December to Febuary is winter, and it can get extremely cold in the mountains (down to sub zero). Summer in this region has a pleasent temperature but still bring some warmer clothing for the evenings.
Summer in southern Nepal can get extremely hot (plus 40°C) in some areas. Winter temperatures in this area can range from 7°C to 23°C.
Kathmandu has a pleasent climate on average. The monsoon rains start from June to September in Nepal.
The majority of Nepalis are either Hindus or Buddhists, but there are many other religions here too like Islam, Christianity, Jainism and Sikhism. You will find many temples and monasteries around Nepal. The right hand is used for important things such as passing money, eating and the giving of gifts.
Nepalese people love their food and much of it has been influenced by Indian and Tibetan cultures. Nepali people have a lot of respect for elders and will call each other didi (“older sister”), bahini (“younger sister”), etc, even if they are not actually related. The family unit is very strong and having a close knit family is important for the local people.
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