Poonhill Trek from Kathmandu

How Difficult Is the Poonhill Trek?

The question most often asked by travelers: how difficult is the Poonhill Trek? Fortunately, this trek has been rated as Easy; that is, it is suitable for most with a reasonable level of fitness. Indeed, much of the trail consists of well-marked paths and stone steps, although some parts-like the steep ascent to Ulleri-are challenging. However, there is a leisurely pace on the trek and time aplenty for rest and scenery.

Higher altitudes, like at Poonhill-3,210 meters, you do get the feel of the height; the height is not extreme during the hike, and therefore it is rather safe in terms of altitude sickness. The manageable duration of five days even makes the trek an excellent starter for novice trekkers within the world of Himalayan trekking.

Best Time to Trek to Poonhill

Planning a Poonhill Trek from Kathmandu, the timing should be appropriate. It is a great adventure to be engaged in during the two most favorable trekking seasons of Nepal: during autumn, which starts in September and lasts until November, and spring, which begins in March and ends in May. The weather is usually stable during these times of the year, with clear skies for good visibility of the surrounding mountains.

During spring, the forests of rhododendron wear a complete bloom and wear a vibrant colored look. The crisp mountain air and the post-monsoon freshness bring in clear skies and perfect trekking conditions in autumn. Though winter and monsoon treks are quite possible, they will be challenging times of excessive cold and slippery trails; hence, most travelers would prefer going in the peak seasons.

Accommodations and Facilities on the Trek

The other factor trekkers usually are concerned with is the kind of accommodation and the availability of the facilities along the route. In the Poonhill Trek, you will stay in cozy tea houses and lodges where basic amenities but fairly comfortable can be found. Lodges like these are a place to keep warm while sleeping and enjoying simple meals while meeting other fellow trekkers around the world.

Most of the lodges along the route offer meals of traditional Nepali cuisine, such as dal bhat or rice and lentils, but often also international dishes. Facilities can be quite different from village to village, with some offering hot showers and others more basic facilities. Wherever you might stay, you'll feel welcome and at home because of the friendliness of the local communities.

What to Pack for Poonhill Trek

The key to a comfortable and pleasant Poonhill Trek from Kathmandu is to pack wisely. Because the trek covers a lot of altitudes, it would be proper to have multiple layers to accommodate all kinds of temperatures. Lightweight trekking clothes would do for the lower altitude areas of the trek, while at higher altitude areas, one would be pretty well off with warm clothes, especially for the early morning hike up to Poonhill.

Other things you should not forget to bring along are a high-quality trekking backpack, comfortable hiking boots, a down jacket, sleeping bag in case you happen to be trekking during colder months, and a pair of trekking poles that give support on some of the steeper sections. Besides this, remember also to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, shades, and a headlamp for early morning ascents up to Poonhill.