Poon Hill Trek in March

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular short treks in the Annapurna region in Nepal, offering the best Himalayan views of Annapurna range and unique cultural experiences. The classical Poon Hill trek starts at Nayapul (1,070m) and ends at Ghandruk (1,940m), making it ideal for beginners and families. But, nowadays, Ghorepani Poon Hill trek begins from Ulleri as the 4WD Jeep take the trekkers to Ulleri/Banthanti directly from Pokhara via Nayapool and Birethanti and ends either at the same place or at Ghandruk village.

The major attractions of Poon Hill trek are the vistas of sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m), which presents the glory of majestic peaks including Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Nilgiri. Ghorepani (2,874m) and Tadapani (2,630m) are some of the villages that remain as an important highlight of  this short trek from Pokhara.

Trekking in Ghorepani - Poon Hill requires permits such as the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) and ACAP. These Poon Hill Trek Permits can be issued at Kathmandu or even at Pokhara. before the trek commences formally.

Read Our Other Blog Posts Related to Poon Hill Trek 

1. Ghorepani Poon Hill Jeep Ride

2. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Route 

3. Poon Hill Trek in October

4. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Winter

5. Poon Hill Trek Cost 

6. Annapurna Base Camp Jeep Ride

7. Where is the Best View of Annapurna Range?

8. Poon Hill Trek in December

9. Ghorepani-Poonhill Trek- A Complete Trekkers' Guide

10. Poon Hill Trek in Spring

Basic sleeping facilities and meals-tea houses along the Poon Hill Trekking trail offer dal bhat, noodles, and momos. There is clean drinking water; bottled or boiled however, purification is a good idea. The Poon Hill Trek Accommodation includes local lodge accommodation on twin sharing basis. If you want private accommodation in Poon Hill Trek, you can get it with some extra costs. 

This easy trek requires a basic amount of physical fitness. A daily walk of 4 to 6 hours with ascents and descents is common; thus, regular cardio and strength training are warranted beforehand the trek. Practice walking, jogging with ups and downs with at least 6kgs of backpack. 

Poon Hill Trek Transportation includes a Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and then to Ulleri/Banthanti by 4WD Jeep drive back from Ghandruk to Pokhara while wrapping the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. 

Pun Hill Trek can be done virtually any time of the year; however, spring and autumn are better in terms of good weather and blooming rhododendrons. It's rewarding with either mountain or cultural encounters for the trek into Poon Hill.

Poon hill trek in March

The rewarding Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in March is one of the best in Nepal because this season offers perfect weather, blooming landscapes, and stunning mountain views from Ghorepani and Poon Hill.

During Poon Hill trekking in March, trekkers can see a kaleidoscope of rhododendron forests that are in full bloom and paint the red, pink, and white colors along the trails in Annapurna Conservation Area, the largest protected area in Nepal. 

The temperature ranges during the Poon Hill Trek in March are modest, with 10°C to 20°C during the daytime and 2°C to 8°C at night, which is favorable for trekking to Poon Hill and Ghodepani. Trekkers are recommended to prepare their Poon Hill Trek in March accordingly.

The different lodges located along the Poon Hill trek route in March are clean, cozy, and ready to accommodate trekkers. The basic facilities include warm blankets, private rooms, hot showers and even massage at Ghorepani village.

Food in Poon Hill Trek in March in the local lodges varies and is wholesome to include dal bhat, momos, noodles, and pancakes and even international items for energy-rich long days of trekking.

The mountain views from Poon Hill in March are great, with panoramic vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other snow-capped peaks like Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal and many other alluring mountain summits. These mountain views from the top of Poon Hill will mesmerize you as well your cameras. 

Challenges to Poon Hill Trek in March would involve some rare rain showers that obstruct views, a crowd, and thus fully-booked lodges which will result some nasty and unpleasant experiences during Poon Hill Trek in March.

 Given all the hardships, Poon Hill trekking during March gives probably one of the most memorable experiences because vibrant nature, culture, and the range view blend together.

Therefore, March is the second-best season for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, which might be considered very ideal for a Himalayan adventure near Pokhara in Annapurna region. 

Highlights of Poon Hill Trek in March

Brilliant Mountain Views

Probably, the most panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre ever. 

In March, the skies are clear, which makes the visibility just perfect for photography.

Golden sunrises light up the snow-capped peaks from the 3,210m Poon Hill viewpoint.

Pleasant Weather

March is the start of spring, which means mild and comfortable temperatures for Poon Hill trekking.

Daytime temperatures in March in Poon Hill Trek at lower altitudes range between 10-15°C, making it ideal to hike.

Nights can drop to 0-5°C at higher altitudes like at Ghorepani, requiring proper layering like down jackets and thermal inners. 

Unique Spring Blooms

March heralds the blooming of rhododendrons, Nepal's national flower.

The Poon Hill Trekking trails take on a vibrant hue with pink, red, and white blossoms, evoking a magical atmosphere in the forests.

This magic happens only during the spring season, which adds value to Ghorepani Poon Hill  trek.

Cultural Immersion

March is a month of festivals, and local events include Holi, the festival of colors.

Trekking through Gurung and Magar villages in March provides an opportunity for interaction with the locals in this joyful period.

Homestays-like accommodation in Ghandruk and Ghorepani offer real Nepalese culture and food.

Moderate Crowds

March will attract trekkers, but the trails are not as crowded as during peak months like October and November.

Have a well-rounded trekking experience that offers ample solitude and opportunities for socializing.

Wildlife Spotting

The early spring activity in the Annapurna Conservation Area provides the opportunity to see langurs, colorful pheasants, and mountain goats. Warmer weather in March will make wildlife more visible along the trail and the trekkers will get opportunity to capture them into their cameras during Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in March. 

No Risk of Monsoons or Extreme Cold

Stable weather in March in Poon Hill reduces the risk of rain and snowfall, which allows safe trekking. Not like in winter, there isn't any blockage of snow on the trails, meaning easy access to all viewpoints like Poon Hill, Thaple Danda and Ghanadruk Village. 

 Spectacular Sunrise Experience

March sunrises are incomparable due to clear skies and the warming spring glow.

Witness the golden glow of the Himalayas from the top of Poon Hill, which is unique to this season. The Poon Hill Trek in March offers a great combination of breathtaking views, comfortable weather, vibrant nature, and cultural richness, making it an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Advantages of Poon Hill Trek in March 

Spring Blossoms

March is the time for rhododendron forests to bloom.

Vibrant flowers add colors to trails and scenery.

Example: Poon Hill Trek in March is very much referred to as a "rhododendron paradise."

Clear Mountain Views

Post-winter skies usually remain clear in March.

Marvelous views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.

Example: Early morning hike to Poon Hill provides breathtaking sunrise and mountain views.

Mild Weather

Moderate March temperatures during the day from 10 to 20°C.

Nights are, sometimes, chilly but manageable from 0 to 5°C.

Example: Perfect for trekking to Ghorepani and Poon Hill without extreme heat or cold., even without down jacket and sleeping bag.

Comfortable Accommodation

Tea houses are more available than during peak April-May period,

A wide possibility to get warm meals and lodges. The lodges are well-maintained as the local lodgers receive a good deal of trekkers in March. 

Example:  You can enjoy Dal Bhat, Tibetan bread - Local common food

Easy-to-walk Trails

Well-tread paths with minor snow at low altitudes,

Less risk of accidents, relatively safe for average trekkers.

Example: Less chance of trail blockage due to landslides, no rainfall and no snowfall

Beautiful Starry Nights

The skies are clear in March and one can enjoy beautiful starry nights from Ghorepani, Tadapani and Ghandruk village in Poon hill Trek in March. 

No Need Trekking Poles, Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag

One doesn’t need to bring down jacket, trekking poles and sleeping bag if you trek to Poon Hill in March as the temperature is very mild and you won’t have to worry about cold. 

Disadvantages of Poon Hill Trek in March

Crowds Start Arriving

The beginning of the spring season, trails will no longer be empty. Popular routes like Ghorepani-Poon Hill might start to feel crowded in Spring Example: Sunrise viewpoints might have big company like at Poon Hill and Ghodepani. 

Unpredictable Weather

Occasional rain or snow at higher altitudes like at Ghorepani and Poon Hill

Weather can change quickly and affect visibility in March. You will experience somehow hot temperatures in Pokhara and at lower elevations like at Ulleri, Banthanti and Ghandruk village in late March. 

Example: Clouds block mountain views in the afternoon. 

Cold Nights

Nights are still chilly, especially at higher altitudes like at Ghorepani and Tadapani.

Example: Temperatures can drop to freezing if it rains, and this requires warm gear.

 Limited Luxury Amenities

Tea houses may not have heating or hot showers as the crowds flock to Poon Hill and Ghorepani. The teahouses are terribly crowded and you may have to wait longer for meals, accommodations, toilets and hot showers in March in Poon Hill Trek. 

Basic facilities are common, sometimes just shared bathroom facilities.

Transportation Issues

Highways to trailheads,  Prithvi Highway and the subways like Nayapul, are rough and have huge traffic if due to occasional rainfall. Example: Delays in bumpy roads or because of weather conditions especially Prithvi Highway from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Nayapool to Ulleri or Banthanti. 

March is a very good time to do the Poon Hill Trek since the rhododendrons are in bloom, mountain views are clear, and the weather is mild; however, be prepared for gradually increasing crowds, occasional unpredictable weather, and basic facilities in most accommodations.

Poon hill trek in early March

Poon Hill in early March is vividly colored because of the beginning of the rhododendron blooms as they paint the forest trails into red, pink, and white hues.

Trekking to Poon Hill in early March comes with pleasant weather: during the day, the temperature varies from 10°C to 15°C (50°F-59°F), while at night it cools down to approximately 0°C (32°F).

The mountain views from Poon Hill in early March are crystal clear, with breathtaking panoramas of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri,  Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Lamjung Himal and Machhapuchhre peaks against a crisp blue sky. 

Accommodations on the Poon Hill trekking route in early March are quite decent, having neat and tidy rooms, warm blankets, and a convenient atmosphere for trekkers.

Traditional Nepali food, including dal bhat, is commonly available at the lodges along with some international options such as pasta and pancakes during the early part of the month of March on Poon Hill.

Early March sees the trails moderately crowded, but not as crowded as in October and November, offering ample opportunity for solitude yet camaraderie with other fellow trekkers on the Poon Hill Trekking Trail in early March.

While Poon Hill trekking in early March is relatively easier and convenient, the occasional icy patches and chilly mornings require proper gear and care, sometimes.

Early March trekking to Poon Hill is ideal for those who prefer cooler/mild weather and the initial blooms of spring without the heavy crowds of peak seasons like in April and May.

Overall,  Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in early March is a rewarding short adventure from Pokhara that combines natural splendor, cultural immersion, and a moderate physical challenge to ascend Poon Hill and Ghorepani.

Poon hill Trek in Mid March

Mid-March is considered the best time and reigns supreme for Poon Hill trekking, as hills bury rhododendrons, making the trails colorful and full of life. The mild weather and the beauty of nature combine to form an excellent environment for the trekking enthusiast who choose doing a couple of days short trek from Pokhara for breathtaking Annapurna mountain ranges. 

During mid-March Poon Hill trekking temperature ranges from 5°C (41°F) to 20°C (68°F) at lower altitudes and may at times be around 0°C (32°F) during early mornings and nights in the higher altitudes, like Ghorepani, Thaple Danda and Tadapani.

Most local lodges along the  Poon Hill trek in Mid March offer tidy rooms, warm enough blankets, and basic amenities that make one's stay comfortable. Most of the food is Nepali in nature, with dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, momo, pancakes, tea, and coffee in the majority.

Poon Hill at mid-March is simply awesome, all-round vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre dazzling under clear skies. Sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill will be an unforgettable experience.

Some challenges on Poon Hill trek could be the steep climb up to Ghorepani and Poon Hill and chilly mornings at times, but these are doable if one is well-prepared and equipped.

Mid-March is regarded as the best time for trekking in Poon Hill, especially for those who want to experience moderate adventure, see spectacular views, and enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal. It is rightly considered the second-best trekking season for the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek after autumn:  Sep., Oct.  and Nov.

Poon Hill Trek in Late March

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking in late March is also a great opportunity for trekkers, as it mixes colorful landscapes, comfortable weather, and breathtaking Himalayan views.

Late March is the time when Poon Hill has clear skies and full-blooming rhododendron forests, adding magic to the atmosphere of the entire trail. Trekkers can see the hills painted with red, pink, and white colors, making Poon Hill Trekking Route one of the most picturesque trekking routes in Nepal.

During the time of trekking the Poon Hill in late March, the temperature fluctuates from low to a fairly moderate one-5°C/ 41°F nighttime to 20° C/ 68°F in the daytime. Weather conditions like that make Ghorepani Poon Hill  trekking in late March rather pleasant- neither strong heats nor piercing cold.

The accommodation on the Poon Hill trek in late March will be pretty good: tidy rooms, warm blankets, and  good hot showers. Food in the local lodges at Ghorepani, Tadapani and ghandruk village is typically Nepali: dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos, noodles, and pancakes are all there, so one does not go without enough energy.

The mountain views from Poon Hill in late March are great, and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including peaks such as Machhapuchhre-Fishtail, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Nilgiri, can be seen with unparalleled clarity during sunrise and sunset.

Though Poon Hill is an easy trek, steep ascents from Banthanti to Ghorepani, Ghorepani to Poon Hill, especially from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri ( if you are not using jeep ride to Ulleri from Pokhara via Nayapool), and crowding during peak season are some of the challenges one should expect. However, proper preparation, prior accommodation booking and an early start each day can help mitigate these difficulties in Poon Hill Trek in late March.

All things considered, late March Ghorepani Poon Hill trek presents one of the most rewarding short treks due to its integration of nature, culture, and relatively easier trails.

Final Words

Commonly, during the Poon Hill trek in March, one can get good views of the mountains, with clear skies affording panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Poon Hill at 3,210 meters also offers a fantastic sunrise view over the Himalayas.

The temperature will reach 5°C - 15°C (41° - 59°F) at a low elevation during the Poon Hill Trek in March, while it is considerably cooler higher up at Poon Hill. It might get down to 0°C (32°F) or below at an altitude during early mornings and nights. The cool temperatures together with clear skies create a perfect environment to trek to Poon Hill in March.

Challenges while trekking to Poon Hill in March include the unpredictable weather, a chance of either rain or snow (rarely), and physical strain from steep ascents from Nangethanti to Ghorepani and Ghorepani to Poon Hill, though this is generally not as long as in more strenuous treks such as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.

Poon Hill Trek in March is considered the next best time of visit to the place, after autumn. During this period, the weather remains favorable for trekking, and the routes are also not as crowded as during the peak month of October and November. The trek becomes unforgettable as it contains both the beauty of blossoming rhododendron forests and dramatic views of the mountains.

In summary, the Poon Hill trek in March will be unique and scenic. This is a very excellent time for trekkers to explore the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek with mild temperatures, vibrant nature, and spectacular mountain views. For those seeking the second-best trekking season of the year for trekking in Nepal, Poon Hill Trek in March should not be missed! Enjoy the natural beauty, the richness in culture, and the awe-inspiring landscapes this trek has in store for you.

Enjoy Poon Hill Trek in March with rain cover or rain poncho but without trekking poles, down jacket and sleeping bag as the weather and temperature will be the second most favorable of the year after autumn.