The Annapurna Base Camp Trek via Poon Hill adds Poon Hill to the beginning of the ABC route. It takes more days than the direct route and involves plenty of uphill and downhill walking. If you are comfortable walking 5–7 hours a day, it can be a good first Himalayan trek. No climbing experience or technical equipment is needed.
The trek begins with a drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, followed by trekking to Ghorepani. The next morning, you walk to Poon Hill before sunrise and return to Ghorepani for breakfast. From there, the trail continues to Tadapani before heading toward Chhomrong.
From Chhomrong, you descend into the Modi Khola valley and follow the river through Bamboo, Himalaya, and Deurali. The forest becomes thinner as you gain height. At Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700 m), you are already above the tree line, with the surrounding peaks filling the valley.
The trail then enters the Annapurna Sanctuary and continues to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre surround the basin. You spend the night here before beginning the descent.
The higher days need a steady pace. Drink enough water, take breaks when needed, and let your guide know if you feel unwell. The trail does not require technical skills, but the altitude and long walking days can still be tiring.
I recommend this route when someone wants to see more of the Annapurna region rather than take the shortest way to Base Camp. The route gives you time in the lower villages before moving into the higher valley, so you see the area change step by step.
