The best months for Poon Hill are March to April for flowers and October to November for the clearest air. Winter is cold but clear, and the monsoon hides the view.
December to February
Cold at Ghorepani, with frost or snow possible. Skies are often clear and trails quiet. Pack warm layers and take care on icy steps.
March and April
Rhododendrons bloom and the forest is colourful. April is busy, and mornings are usually clear. Warm days make walking pleasant.
May
Warm and hazy with afternoon cloud. Sunrise is still often clear. Leeches start at the end of the month.
June to September
Monsoon rain, cloud and leeches. The Poon Hill view is rare. Not recommended, although late September improves.
Sunrise times and light
Sunrise at Poon Hill ranges from about 5:30 in May to 6:45 in December. Start climbing about an hour before sunrise. The best light is just before and after the sun clears the horizon, when the peaks glow pink and gold. Cloud often builds after eight.
Planning around festivals
Dashain and Tihar fall in autumn, bringing many domestic travellers and sometimes limited transport. If you want a quiet trek, avoid the festival days or book lodges early. The days between festivals can be calm.
Monsoon and shoulder months
June to August bring heavy rain, leeches and frequent cloud. The forest is lush and waterfalls run, but the view is rare. September and early December are shoulder months with fewer people and decent chances of clear weather. Check the forecast before committing.
Winter clarity
In January and February, the air is dry and clear, with the best chance of an unobstructed view. Nights are cold and the stone steps can be icy. Pack warm clothing and consider microspikes.
October and November
The prime season with clear skies and dry trails. October is busy; November is cold but quieter. See the best time guide.
Crowds by month
Peak months fill lodges in Ghorepani. Book early or arrive earlier in the day to secure rooms.
Months to avoid
Peak monsoon from June to August brings leeches, cloud and slippery stone steps. January and February can have snow on the upper trail. Spring and autumn are the safest choices.
