Poon Hill starts about 1.5 hours by road from Pokhara. The only real travel decision is whether to reach Pokhara by air from Kathmandu or by road from India.
Reaching Pokhara
Fly from Kathmandu in about 25 minutes or take a tourist bus or private car for six to eight hours. From India, travellers cross at Sunauli and continue by road to Pokhara.
Pokhara to Nayapul
A taxi or shared jeep takes roughly 1.5 hours to Nayapul, where the trek begins at Birethanti. Some groups start at Tikhedhunga to save time on the first day.
Road to Ghorepani
A rough jeep road now reaches parts of the route, but most trekkers prefer to walk the Ulleri stairs and forest trail. Ask your guide which stretches are pleasant and which are dusty.
Returning
You can return by the same trail or finish at Ghandruk or Tadapani, then take a jeep to Pokhara. See extensions and combinations.
Shared versus private transport
Shared jeeps are cheap but wait for passengers. A private taxi leaves when you want and is easier with luggage. If you are travelling with children or seniors, a private vehicle is worth the extra cost. Ask your hotel in Pokhara to arrange pickup the night before.
Leaving the city early
Leave Pokhara by seven in the morning to reach Nayapul by half past eight and walk before the heat builds. Early starts also help you reach Tikhedhunga or Ulleri with time to rest. Bring water and a snack for the drive.
Buffer
There are no mountain flights, so delays are rare, but a spare day helps if sunrise is clouded out and you want a second attempt.
Where the trek officially starts
Most people begin at Nayapul or Birethanti, where permits are checked. From here the trail climbs steadily to Ulleri and then Ghorepani.
Easier starting points
If you want to shorten the first day, some operators use a jeep further up the road. This saves climbing but removes a scenic stage of the walk.
Choosing between bus and taxi
A local bus is the cheapest way to Nayapul, a taxi is faster. Starting from Pokhara before 8 am gives you time to reach Ulleri or Tikhedhunga on the first day.
