The 5 popular places to visit near Poon Hill are Tatopani, Kali Gandaki Gorge, Muldai Hill, Ghandruk and Jhinu Hot Spring. If you have around 8-10 days to spend near Pokhara and Poon Hill, you will truly enjoy the whole Annapurna region at once.
Most importantly, the mountain views, sunrise and sunsets, deep gorges, natural hot springs, authentic Nepali culture and natural hot spring are the major highlights of this trip.
In conclusion, it is best idea to adjust Tatopani, Kali Gandaki Gorge, Muldai Hill, Ghandruk and Jhinu Hot Spring in your Poon Hill Trek itinerary for better experience.
Poon hill is one of the most well-known viewpoints in the Annapurna Himalayas near beautiful Pokhara city. It reaches up to around 3210m and can provide breathtaking views watching the sunrise behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges depending on the weather.
Actually, there are many beautiful places to visit in the area including traditional villages, mountainous scenery, river gorges and natural hot springs. These can each however be found along different trails and roads.
Popular Places to visit Near Poon Hill
Tatopani – This village can be found along the Kali Gandaki Valley further down the valley. The town is best known for their natural hot spring pools.
Kali Gandaki Gorge – Located within the Kali Gandaki River, this gorge sits between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. This can be accessed with different routes connecting Jomsom.
Muldai Hill – This peaceful viewpoint can be found near Dobato, if walking along the right trails there will be fantastic views.
Ghandruk – Traditional largest Gurung (ethnic people of Nepal) village, with great stone houses.
Jhinu Hot Springs – This natural hot water pool can be found close to the Modi Khola along the lower Annapurna trails.
Summary of things to explore Near Poon Hill
Attraction | Approximate Height | Description
Poon Hill | 3210m | Breathtaking sunrise views of the Himalayas.
Tatopani| 1190m | Natural hot springs.
Kali Gandaki Gorge | Variable| Deep river gorge.
Muldai Hill | 3637m| Peaceful mountain viewpoint.
Ghandruk | 1940m | Traditonal Gurung village.
Jhinu Hot Springs |1780m | Natural hot water swimming pools.
Note: The heights are all approximate. Different sources may show differently.
Now, let's see all 5 popular places to visit near Poon Hill in detail one by one.
This beautiful riverside village (Myagdi District) sits at around 1190m. Due to the village having natural hot spring pools along the Kali Gandaki River, this makes it a great stop off point for trekkers.
Meanwhile, Tatopani can be a good alternative to heading back to Pokhara after visiting Poon hill. The trail from Ghorepani takes around 6-8hrs to descend from Chitre and Shikha. It also takes around 16-17km.
Popular Things To See In Tatopani
Natural_hot_springs – Great place to take your time relaxing in a communal swimming pool.
Kali Gandaki River – Beautiful view walking the river bank and surrounded by the hills.
Traditional Villages – Experience authentic local culture, beautiful terracotta lands and beautiful village life.
Optional Trekking Extensions – If feeling up for more trekking you can head towards Beni or can also arrange transport.
Interesting Facts About Tatopani Trekking
Details | Information
Height | About 1190m
Distance from Ghorepani | 16-17km
Walking Time | Approximately 6-8hrs
Route Taken | Ghorepani-Chitre-Shikha-Tatopani
Best thing to see| Natural Hot Water Pools.
Recommended Extension | 1 night stay.
Useful Tips
However, please note that Tatopani isn’t a quick stop to do on the way back from Poon Hill as it requires quite a long walk down. Plan for an extra full day and ensure that the trails are clear before, especially due to possible disruptions from monsoon.
Whilst the local culture believes that these springs are great for relaxing and relieving tired muscles please note these are not proven to help medically.
This amazing landscape region follows the Kali Gandaki River through the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges of Nepal. It includes stunning landscapes with great drops, jagged riverbanks, and lush green hills juxtaposed with the dry areas of Mustang.
While the gorge can often rank amongst the deepest on earth it will depend which measurement method you choose. This section is much more substantial than Poon Hill and therefore extra time will be required to complete.
Things to See
Dana – Amazing dramatic landscapes and spectacular river scenery can be found in the lower part of the gorge.
Tatopani – Natural hot springs and scenic walks by the Kali Gandaki.
Jomsom – Windy landscapes, authentic villages and much dryer landscape typical of the higher areas of Lower Mustang.
Riverscape – You can see beautiful contrasting landscapes from subtropical forests to arid areas.
Extra Facts
River Valley – Kali Gandaki (N.W Nepal)
Major Mountain Ranges – Annapurna I (8091m), Dhaulagiri I (8167m)
Local Villages – Dana/ Tatopani/ Ghasa/ Lete/ Jomsom
Jomsom Elevation – Roughly 2720m
What to do – Scenic driving, Trekking & Landscape Photography
Suggested Extra Time – 1-3 extra days depending on your route.
Note: The elevations and timings may vary. It will also depend how you measure the depth of the gorge.
Top tips
As you will need extra transport or extra days to reach the different areas of the gorge you should check the road conditions, river level and local access to the trails. If you are visiting during the monsoon season make sure the roads are safe to drive during this time.
This Himalayan Viewpoint sits above Dobato within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Roughly 3637m above sea level provides visitors with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landmarks. On a clear day you would have fantastic views of Annapurna South, Dhaulangiri and Machhapuchhre.
Here, Muldai Hill Trek often provides a quieter and calmer experience compared to Poon Hill as it sits above the scenic forested ridges. It can provide you with a different view of the impressive landscape in front of you.
Things to See
Mountain Views – Panoramic vistas of Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges. (Visibility varies depending on the weather).
Photography – Get there early to capture sunrise images.
Walk through lovely oak & rhododendron forests. Tadapani-Dobato Route.
Quieter – Not often as busy as Poon Hill.
Trekking Facts
Viewpoint Elevation – Roughly 3637m
Elevation of Dobato – Roughly 3350m
Distance to Viewpoint (return) – Roughly 1.5-2km depending on route.
Time to Climb – Roughly 30-60mins (one way)
Tadapani to Dobato – Roughly 6-7km. Usually take around 4-6hours.
Suggested Extra Time – One night’s stay in Dobato.
Note: Distances and timings will vary. Please make sure you chose the correct hiking route.
Useful tips
Muldai Hill view point sits well with other popular hiking spots such as Ghandruk, Tadapani & and Ghorepani. Be sure to pack a Head-torch, warm clothes and suitable shoes as the walk up can be quite chilly and slippery.
Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village in Kaski District of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of approximately 1940m in the Annapurna region. This village has some wonderful views across the mountains and is a great place to stop off and experience the local culture. It has some wonderful stoney buildings nestled on the terraced hillsides.
Likewise, the Ghandruk village has all local experiences of village life to offer you with certain level of comforts in accommodation.
Meanwhile, it provides great views towards Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre if the weather. You will be able to walk around the small village streets and learn more about the Gurung culture.
Key Highlights
Traditional stoney buildings – Get a glimpse of unique traditional buildings with slate roofing and narrow village streets.
Local culture – Learn about the Gurung culture including traditional dress, community and history.
Mountain Views – Gorgeous views towards Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre on a clear day!
Cultural Museum – Explore the local cultural museum with traditional Gurung artefacts. (Subject to Opening Times)
Explore the beautiful surroundings – Walk around the farms, viewpoints and traditional buildings.
Quick Info
Altitude – Approx: 1940m
Location – Kaski District, Gandaki Province
Nearest main tourist spot – Pokhara
Key Culture – Gurung Culture
Trek Connections – Tadapani, Ghorepani & Chhomrong.
Recommended Amount of Time to Spend – Half Day/One Night
Useful TIPS
This makes a great stop off for anyone trekking along the Ghorepani-Poon Hill or Annapurna Base camp route. It is also recognised by the Nepal Tourism Board as being accessible from Pokhara along roads. Travel time depends on road conditions.
Importantly, remember to have permission from locals to take photos and please consider staying at locally owned lodges and shops to help the local community.
Jhinu Danda is a village in the Annapurna region of Nepal. At approximately 1780m it has hot springs that traditionally serve as a relaxing break for trekkers heading to the Annapurna Base Camp route down into Chhomrong.
Important Note: The hot spring pools have been damaged due to flooding in August 2026. Please do not assume they have opened as the pool is currently flooded.
Crosscheck with local trekking company before heading towards it.
Key Highlights
Modi Khola – Have a great look at the beautiful river valley and keep a safe distance from the water.
Trek Connections – Connections to Chhomrong, Ghandruk & other Annapurna villages.
Beautiful Mountains – Green hills and steep mountains providing beautiful views across the Annapurna range.
Stays – Have a lovely evening at a local lodge.
Quick Info
Altitude – Approx: 1780m
Location – Kaski District, Gandaki Province
River – Modi Khola
Stroll – Approx: 15-30 mins down to traditional hot springs.
Main Trek Route – Annapurna Base Camp Route
Hot Springs – Flood Damaged
Walking times will vary depending on the trek you walk. Check with locals to see if the hot springs are open.
Useful TIPs
Here, you can go directly to Jhinu from Poon Hill but needs enough time and permit validity. Ensure when travelling you have permission to walk the trails. Check the conditions of the river and if the spring has re-opened.
Even if the hot springs have not opened you can still visit the local village and enjoy the views across the treks. Please ensure you wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water and a raincoat! Stay away from the river during heavy rains.
On the whole, the best time to visit areas around Poon Hill are during springtime (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During springtime you will see gorgeous rhododendron forests and trekking routes will be very picturesque. However, weather can be cloudy, reducing visibility at the mountains.
During the autumn many treks will be favourable and there will be amazing mountain views. However, during October and early November many areas can get busy meaning it is advisable to pre-book any accomodation/transport.
When to Visit the Poon Hill Area
Season| Months |Conditions
Spring| March-May| Rhododendrons bloom, nicer days
Autumn| Sept-Nov| Trekking high season, often good visibility
Winter| Dec-Feb| Cool mornings, can be snowy with icy terrain
Monsoon| May-June| Rainy, cloudy and muddy, can have landslides
Best Times to Visit Each Area
Poon Hill and Muldai Hill: Often have favorable conditions during both spring and autumn for great sunrise views.
Ghandruk: Great during spring; forests in full bloom. Great walks around the village during autumn.
Tatopani and Kali Gandaki Gorge: Generally favorable during autumn and spring, however you may want to confirm good road conditions.
Jhinu Hot Spring: Only visit when you can confirm that it is safe.
Useful Tips for Choosing your Season
During monsoon there can be landslides and muddy paths due to rain. This area (around Kali Gandaki valley) can also be affected by road issues. Parts of the Beni-Jomsom corridor have been effected by recent flooding during 2026 so confirm that the area is favourable before heading towards Tatopani/Jomsom.
Importantly, Nepal Tourism Board recommends visiting many trekking sites during spring and autumn. Often, you will find clearer skies during October and November. However, you cannot guarantee sunrise views during any season so try to be flexible with your mountain views.
The easiest areas to combine with Poon Hill are Ghandruk and Muldai Viewpoint. However, Tatopani and Kali Gandaki Gorge will take you longer to reach or mean extra car travel. Jhinu Hot Spring would fit better into an Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Here, most trekking to Poon Hill area (3-4 days) are focused around Ghorepani and Poon Hill with return routes from local villages. To include all sites, you will need extra 5-7 days of trekking and will need to plan your route carefully.
Routes to Take
Poon Hill and Ghandruk: Take a 4-5 day trek to take in mountain views and experience local Gurung culture.
Poon Hill and Muldai Hill: Will take about 5-6 days depending on where you start from and overnight stays.
Poon Hill and Tatopani: Will take you 6-8 days or more depending on transport and return route.
Kali Gandaki Gorge: Extra 1-3 days depending on how far you go through Tatopani/Dana and possibly Jomsom.
Poon Hill and Jhinu: Extend your trip depending on whether you can confirm that the hot spring is open for extra 2-3 days
Comparison of Trekking Extensions
Extension Suggested| Duration| Best for
Poon Hill and Ghandruk| 4-5 days| First time trekkers and culture
Poon Hill and Muldai Hill| 5-6 days| Sunrise photography and less busy trails
Poon Hill and Tatopani| 6-8 days or more| Hot springs and valley views
Kali Gandaki Gorge| Extra 1-3 days or more| River views and travelling through Mustang
Poon Hill and Jhinu| Around 5-7 days| Great mountain views in sanctuary. Maybe stop at hot spring if open.
Note: These are just guidelines. The times will depend on the route you take, transport and trail conditions.
Final Tips
Choose to visit Ghandruk to enjoy the culture or Muldai Hill for extra mountain views. If you have enough time and can confirm that the roads are open then you can include Tatopani and Kali Gandaki valley.
Importantly, recent flooding has caused some issues along parts of the Beni-Jomsom corridor. The Galeshwor-Dana section was reported to have damage in October 2026. Confirm that you can get there and the conditions of the trail.
Typically, you’ll take tourist buses/cars/jeep to the trailhead at Nayapul, Ulleri, Banthanti, Jhino Danda or Ghandruk and then you would walk to your destination from there. These villages include Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani and Tadapani to name but a few and depending on the route that you take.
Likewise, a further bus and/or walking may also be required if you are aiming to go towards Tatopani/Kali Gandaki valley. As with the Muldai Hill and Jhinu Danda, careful routes would need to be planned to ensure suitable accommodation was available.
Importantly, the jeeps from Pokhara can directly take you to Ghandruk, Jhino Danda and Tatopani if you want.
Getting To Poon Hill & nearby
Transport Type| Description Notes
Tourist Bus / Car/ Jeep | Travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Time varies depending on congestion and the quality of roads.
Private Jeep | Travelling from Pokhara to select trailheads like Ghandruk, Ulleri or Banthanti. This varies depending on how far you are going.
Local Jeep / Bus | Villages and roads will be accessible to Ghandruk and Ulleri. However, services may not be readily available.
Trekking from Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Muldai and through the villages| The time taken will vary depending on the distance and fitness (normally 10-12 km daily walk and 7-8 hours time)
Local Transport| Tatopani and parts of the Kali Gandaki Valley, Should ensure routes are open.
Trekking Permits for these Areas
You need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) when entering the area as a foreigner. Permit fees can vary and exemptions also do so please check this with the correct authority before publishing.
For foreigners, ACAP cost Rs. 3000 and for SAARC natinals it costs only Rs.1000 per person for entry. It will be a single entry permit.
Teahouses & Costs
Basic accommodation, food and services can be found at the teahouses and guesthouses within Ghorenpi, Tadapani and Ghandruk. However extra transport, staying overnight, hot shower facilities, charging devices and premium accommodation can add to your overall budget.
The cost of teahouse including meals will cost between Rs. 3000-4000 per day.
Here, the Published Poon Hill Trek Cost by Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd.
The published prices below are from Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd for their standard packages:
Package| Group Size| Per Person
3 Day Poon Hill Trek| 1 person| $195
3 Day Poon Hill Trek| 2-4 people| $155
4 Day Poon Hill Trek| 1 person| $235
4 Day Poon Hill Trek| 2-4 people| $195
4 Day Poon Hill Trek| 6-10 people| $175
4 Day Poon Hill Trek| 12-16 people| $145
Detail Information here can be found by clicking 3 day and 4 day Poon Hill Trek in our website.
Inclusions in Trekking Packages
Transport – Jeep/Bus transfers depending on the rip to the trailhead and back to Pokhara.
Permits – You need Conservation Area Permit.
Accommodation & Food – This would be provided via the lodges.
Guide & Porter – This will depend on the packages and what has been confirmed.
Extra Costs – Your own Insurance, Gratuities, drinks/snacks and any extras like laundry and shower, phone calls and Wi-Fi may not be included.
Importantly, check what exactly will be included in the packages you’re looking at. Some packages provide breakfast only while others offer full board. The extensions to visit Tatopani, Kali Gandaki Gorge and Jhinu Danda will also need to be built into your overall budget.
If you’ve got the time to fit in these places, a flexible itinerary and an extra budget, it’s definitely worth including them! Not only will you receive stunning views throughout the Himalayas they will give you insight into the Gurung peoples, beautiful river views and you’ll get to experience more parts within this amazing Annapurna region.
In fact, these sites aren’t on the same trail and there has been recent flooding damage. It would be best to contact your local trekking company to put a realistic itinerary together with what you’ve got available in terms of days and personal interests.
Recommendations:
Mountain views – Poon Hill & Muldai Viewpoint. Try include both on your trip if the path is clear.
Culture – Ghandruk provides a great insight into the Gurung heritage.
River views and Hot Springs – Try include Tatopani and parts of the Kali Gandaki valley. Ensure transport is available.
Hot Springs – Ensure they have opened up Jhinu Hot Spring for bathing.
Thus, the best way would be to customize your itinerary. Contact Haven Holidays Pvt. Ltd here to share about your plans and transport options to receive an updated quote.
1. What are the best places to visit near Poon Hill?
Some of the best places to visit near Poon Hill include Ghandruk village, Tadapani, Muldai Viewpoint, Tatopani Hot Spring, Kali Gandaki Gorge and Jhinu Hot Spring. Ghandruk gives you great insight into the Gurung culture along with beautiful mountain views. Muldai is a great place to enjoy a more peaceful view of the Himalayas. However, Tatopani and Kali Gandaki Gorge are better to visit as an extension.
2. Can I visit Tatopani after Poon Hill trek?
Yes, you can visit Tatopani after completing the Poon Hill Trek. This is usually by trekking through Ghorepani to the lower Kali Gandaki valley or connecting by road. Tatopani is famous for it’s natural hot springs. You will need to allow extra time for the transportation to and from this area. Road connections can vary depending on the route and season.
3. How do I get to Kali Gandaki Gorge from Poon Hill?
Kali Gandaki Gorge is not directly next to Poon Hill so you will need to visit as an extension. This is usually by passing through Tatopani and the Beni-Jomsom road corridor towards the Kali Gandaki Valley. This area follows the Kali Gandaki River between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. You will need to allow extra time for transportation or trekking.
4. Is Muldai Hill a better place to view the mountains than Poon Hill?
Muldai Viewpoint can be a great place to enjoy a more peaceful experience. It has great views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on clear days. However, Poon Hill is a more well known place to visit and can easily be added to a short itinerary. Muldai usually requires an overnight stay around Dobato and extra trekking. Depending on how much time you have and what route you are on, you can decide which is better for you.
5. Can I visit Ghandruk whilst doing my Poon Hill trek?
Yes, Ghandruk is a popular stop on the classic Poon Hill trekking route. This village is famous for the Gurung culture, traditional stone houses and local culture. Many itineraries will visit this place on the way down from Tadapani. You will need to allow extra time to explore this village.
6. Is Jhinu Hot Spring close to Poon Hill?
Jhinu Hot Spring is located within the lower Modi Khola area. This is close to the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route. You will usually need to visit as an extension. This can be done by visiting the Annapurna trails or carefully planning your route by road and foot. Please make sure you can access the trails and have transportation.
7. How many extra days will I need?
Ghandruk is often included within a 4 or 5 day Poon Hill itinerary. You may not need any extra days. Muldai Viewpoint can add around half a day onto a full day itinerary including an overnight stay. Tatopani, Kali Gandaki Gorge and Jhinu Hot Spring can add 1 or more days onto your itinerary, depending on your transportation and route.
8. What is the best time of year to visit these attractions?
The best time of year to visit Poon Hill and the surrounding areas is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-November). During the spring you will see the rhododendrons in bloom and during the autumn the mountains will often be clear and trekking conditions will be pleasant. During the monsoon season the trails can become very slippery. The mountains can also be quite obscured. During the winter, mornings can be very cold at the higher viewpoints.
9. Do I need a guide to visit Muldai Viewpoint?
We recommend using an authorized guide to visit Muldai Viewpoint. The route from Tadapani to Dobato is not as straightforward as the main Poon Hill route. Some parts of the route are not as clear. A guide can help with navigating, finding accommodation and dealing with the changeable weather. If you are a foreign trekker please make sure you know what the current rules are for guides and permits in Nepal.
10. Can Haven Holidays set customized itinerary for my Poon Hill trek including these extensions?
Yes, Haven Holidays can set a customized itinerary for your Poon Hill trek including places like Ghandruk, Muldai Viewpoint or other suitable stops within the Annapurna region. Extensions to Tatopani, Kali Gandaki Gorge and Jhinu Hot Spring will need to be planned carefully. Please let us know what dates you would like to travel, how many days you have available, your fitness level and what places you would like to visit so we can give you a realistic itinerary and quotation.
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