Annapurna Three Hills Trek

Your journey begins in the lakeside city of Pokhara. Upon checking into your hotel, you will meet your guide for a pre-trip briefing and gear check. The rest of the day is dedicated to self-exploration and last-minute shopping.

If you have a free evening, you can visit the Pame side of the Phewa Lake. While tourists stay in the main Lakeside area, locals go to Pame for the best fresh “Machha” (fish) and sunset views.

The day begins with a scenic drive to Tikhedhunga, the trailhead of your trek. You will begin your trek with a test of endurance along the legendary 3,300 stone steps of Ulleri. Watch out for the mule train. If one passes by you, ensure you are on the mountainside when they pass you!

The trek to Ghorepani is shorter. You will trek through the lush oak and rhododendron forests. Ghorepani translates to “Horse Water.” This is a watering hole of the ancient Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade Route. You have the rest of the afternoon to rest and prepare for an early start the following day.

You will conquer the first of the “Three Hills” before dawn. You will hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) for the iconic sunrise before returning to Ghorepani for breakfast. After breakfast, you will divert from the bustling trails into the quiet trails toward Dobato. In the evening, you will reach the Mulde View Point for sunset. Mulde is often considered to have more superior views than Poon Hill. From here, you can get a 360-degree spiritual experience away from the crowds.

The morning begins with yet another sunrise hike to Mulde. Take in the majestic sights of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs, light up with the first rays of the sun. From Mulde, you will descend through mossy forests, a natural habitat of the Himalayan Monal (Danphe), toward Tadapani. Listen for their distinct call for a rare sighting of these birds.

Leaving Tadapani behind, you will trek along the wilder side of the region. The trail takes you deep into rhododendron forests before reaching the community-managed teahouse/lodges in Chistibung. By staying in these community-run lodges, you directly support the local school funds and mountain health clinics, providing a unique “human element” to your adventure.

A steep hike awaits on the “Third Hill.” As you ascend toward the mighty Khopra Ridge, you will notice yourself above the treeline. Upon reaching the ridge, you stand in front of the massive 8,167-meter face of Dhaulagiri, overlooking the world’s deepest Gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge.

If you are looking for additional adventure, you can hike to Khayer Lake. This is a sacred pilgrimage site where locals believe Khayer Barahi resides. It is an alpine desert environment. Alternatively, you can rest in your teahouse/lodge before taking the direct descent to the charming Swanta village.

Today, you reach a much lower elevation zone. As you trek through terraced fields and traditional Magar villages, you will feel the atmosphere is gentler on your lungs. You will continue your trek, embracing the rich and unique lifestyle of the hills before you reach Shikha/Chitre.

On the final day of the trek, you will descend to Tatopani. You can soak in the natural hot water springs for a therapeutic relaxation session after a 10-day trek. After the soak, you will complete the final hike to your pick-up point, where a private vehicle will meet you and drive you back to Pokhara. This concludes your incredible 10-day Annapurna Three Hills trek.