A good packing list for Poon Hill is shorter than for higher treks, but it still has to cope with a wide temperature range. Mornings above Ghorepani can fall near or below freezing, while the lower villages are warm and humid. Pack light, because the fewer kilograms you carry, the more you enjoy the stairs.
Core clothing
- Two or three quick-dry T-shirts or base layers.
- One warm mid-layer, such as a fleece.
- A light down or synthetic jacket for evenings and the sunrise climb.
- A waterproof and windproof jacket and light waterproof trousers in spring and monsoon.
- Two pairs of trekking trousers and thermal underwear for winter.
- Warm hat, gloves, buff and sun hat.
- Several pairs of good trekking socks.
Footwear
Broken-in trekking boots or sturdy trail shoes with grip are essential because of the stone steps. Add lightweight sandals for the evening. In winter, gaiters or microspikes help on snow.
Sleeping gear
Lodges supply blankets, but a lightweight sleeping bag or a liner is wise for hygiene and warmth, particularly in winter. A bag rated to about zero degrees Celsius is enough for most months.
Daypack essentials
- A 25 to 30 litre daypack with a rain cover.
- A reusable water bottle and purification tablets.
- Headlamp, spare batteries and a power bank.
- Sunglasses, sun cream and lip balm.
- Snacks such as nuts, chocolate and energy bars.
Health and hygiene
Bring blister plasters, pain relief, rehydration salts, any personal medicines and hand sanitiser. Wet wipes and a small towel are practical because showers are not always available. Toilet paper is not always provided.
Optional extras
Trekking poles, a camera with a spare battery, a book, earplugs, a small padlock and a dry bag for electronics. Leave valuables at your hotel in Pokhara. Most hotels store spare luggage for free while you trek.
A simple packing checklist
Lay out everything on your bed the night before you pack, then remove a quarter of it. Most trekkers carry too much. Clothes dry quickly, so you need fewer sets than you think. Wash socks and shirts in the evening and hang them in the dining room or on your pack the next day.
Season adjustments
- Spring: add a light rain jacket and sun hat.
- Autumn: add warm layers for evenings.
- Winter: add gaiters, a thicker sleeping bag and warm gloves.
- Monsoon: add a poncho, dry bags and leech protection.
Footwear tips
Do not wear brand-new boots. Wear them on weekend hikes with the socks you will take to Nepal. Trim toenails and use blister prevention on known hot spots. Carry a second pair of insoles if your feet swell.
Small comforts
A light scarf, an eye mask, earplugs, a deck of cards, a notebook and a small thermos make evenings more pleasant. They weigh little and bring a lot of comfort.
