7 Days Tour on Poon Hill Trek and Chitwan Jungle Safari

Nepal in a Week: Trekking to Poon Hill and Exploring Chitwan’s Wilderness

For travelers eager to pack a lot of Nepal into a single week, this 7-day tour offers a compelling mix of mountain adventure and wildlife discovery. Starting in Pokhara, you’ll trek through lush forests and charming villages, culminating in the breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill. Following the trek, a scenic drive takes you to Chitwan National Park, where the jungle’s wild inhabitants—rhinos, tigers, and exotic birds—are waiting to be seen. The best part? You get this all for just $750 per person, with a well-planned itinerary that balances physical activity with cultural experiences.

What we really love about this experience is how it’s carefully tailored for those short on time but eager for authentic Nepali adventures. The guided trek with a knowledgeable local (who gets rave reviews) makes the mountain sections accessible and rewarding, while the Chitwan safari offers a genuine glimpse of Nepal’s rich biodiversity. Plus, the inclusion of cultural visits, like Tharu village dances and Ghandruk’s traditional Gurung culture, enriches the journey beyond just scenery.

A potential consideration? The trek involves moderate physical activity, so travelers should be comfortable with some uphill walking and variable terrain. While most find the pace manageable, those with mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly. That said, the overall experience is designed to be rewarding without requiring alpine-level fitness.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want a well-rounded Nepal experience in just a week. It suits travelers who appreciate guided insight, scenic vistas, and an authentic taste of local life.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining mountain trek and jungle safari for a diverse experience.
• Expert guides enhance the trek with local knowledge and ensure safety.
• Stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill remain a highlight for trekkers.
• Authentic cultural encounters in Ghandruk and Tharu villages deepen your understanding of local life.
• Comfortable transportation between destinations makes logistics smooth.
• Excellent value at $750, given the included activities, permits, and accommodations.

A Closer Look at the 7-Day Journey

Starting in Pokhara and Trekking to Ghandruk

Your adventure begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The drive is pleasant, with views of the hills and river valleys. From there, the trek kicks off through villages like Birethanti, along the Modi Khola river, with your guide handling all the permits and official paperwork—important for a smooth start.

Day 1’s trek is about 7 hours, but the route is rewarding with its mix of forests and mountain scenery. We loved the way the trail unfolds through rhododendron and oak forests, especially if you’re visiting during the blooming season. You’ll pass waterfalls and small villages, experiencing rural Nepalese life firsthand. The pace is generally gentle enough for most, but be prepared for some uphill sections.

The Magic of Poon Hill Sunrise

The highlight for many is Day 3, when you wake early to hike up to Poon Hill. The early start is worth it—standing on the hilltop as the sun rises over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare mountains is a view that stays with you. The panoramic vistas are simply breathtaking, and your guide will point out the peaks and explain their significance. We loved the way the cool mountain air and the quiet early morning make the moment even more special.

Returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, you then trek onwards, passing more scenic landscapes and waterfalls, leading to Tadapani. The day’s walk, about 7 hours, keeps you immersed in nature and local flavor without overexertion.

From Trekked Villages to Lakeside Relaxation

Day 4 combines trekking with cultural exploration. You descend to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village renowned for its well-preserved architecture and local museum. Walking through Ghandruk offers a glimpse into rural Nepalese life, and we appreciated the chance to explore on foot rather than just pass through.

After visiting Ghandruk, your guide will arrange a vehicle to take you back to Pokhara’s lakeside, where you can unwind and reflect on the trek. Staying at a comfortable guesthouse, you’ll enjoy the serene lakeside atmosphere, with options to explore or relax by the water.

Transition to Chitwan and Wilderness Adventure

Day 5 transports you on a scenic drive through lush landscapes to Chitwan National Park. The drive offers a change of scenery from the mountain forests to jungle terrain teeming with wildlife. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a welcome drink and a briefing about upcoming activities.

The next two days are packed with wildlife encounters. Day 6’s early morning canoe ride on the Rapti River is an excellent way to see water birds and crocodiles. Jungle walks with guides are designed to maximize your chances of spotting tigers, rhinoceroses, and a variety of bird species. A jeep safari adds another layer of adventure, giving you a broader view of the park’s vastness.

We loved the opportunity to see rhinoceroses up close and learned from guides that the park is an important refuge for these animals. The cultural element continues with visits to Tharu villages where traditional dance performances give a lively insight into the local culture.

Final Day and Return

On your last day, a bird-watching tour offers a peaceful way to start the morning, with over 500 bird species present in the park. After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Pokhara or Kathmandu, wrapping up your adventure. The 6-hour journey is comfortable, with scenic views along the way.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Guided Trekking with Local Expertise: The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience more enriching. As one reviewer notes, “Amrit was exceptional” and helped ensure everything ran smoothly, which is vital when navigating remote trails.

Stunning Mountain Vistas: The highlight for many is the sunrise from Poon Hill. The panoramic views of the Himalayas, especially at dawn, are unforgettable, and the trek route itself offers plenty of scenic diversity.

Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visiting villages like Ghandruk and Tharu villages offers a genuine glimpse into Nepalese village life and traditional dance performances. These moments add depth to your trip, going beyond just scenery.

Wildlife Safari in Chitwan: The jungle activities—canoeing, jungle walks, jeep safaris—are well-organized, with experienced guides. The chances of spotting rhinos and tigers make it a highlight for wildlife lovers.

Good Value and Logistics: For $750, the tour includes all necessary permits, accommodations, transport, and park activities. The transportation between locations is comfortable, with a private car for the trek start and a tourist bus for the longer transfers.

What Could Be Better

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, some might find the 7-day pace slightly intensive, especially with long walking days. Also, the trek involves moderate physical activity, requiring decent fitness. Travelers who dislike early mornings or uphill walks may want to consider their comfort level before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for adventure travelers who want a taste of Nepal’s mountains and wildlife without dedicating weeks to the trip. It also suits culture enthusiasts eager to explore local villages and traditions. The guided nature of the tour makes it accessible for those unfamiliar with trekking or wildlife safaris, provided they’re comfortable with moderate activity levels.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, but it does involve moderate physical activity. You should be comfortable walking for several hours and tackling some uphill sections.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
During the trek, accommodations are in guesthouses, which are basic but comfortable. In Pokhara and Chitwan, you stay in 2-star hotels that are clean and well-located.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private car transfers from Pokhara to Nayapul and Kimche to Pokhara, as well as a tourist bus for longer trips.

What is the main highlight of the trek?
The sunrise from Poon Hill is the standout moment, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included in Pokhara and Chitwan, while lunch and dinner during the trek are not included but can be purchased along the way.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a guided, scheduled tour, so customization is limited. However, you can discuss specific needs with the provider beforehand.

What kind of guide will I have?
A government-licensed English-speaking guide who is experienced in trekking and wildlife safaris.

Is the tour suitable during certain seasons?
While not explicitly stated, Nepal’s best trekking seasons are generally autumn and spring, when the weather is clear and stable.

What should I pack?
Layers for mountain weather, sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear, and a camera for the vistas.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour offers a well-thought-out combination of mountain hiking, culture, and wildlife exploration, all at a very reasonable price point. It’s tailored for travelers who want a rich Nepal experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Expect stunning vistas, engaging guides, and authentic cultural encounters that will leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of photos.

If you’re looking for an adventure that balances physical activity with cultural and natural sights, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for those with a moderate level of fitness, a curiosity for local traditions, and a love for wildlife. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a pair of good walking shoes!

Note: This review is based on the detailed tour information and genuine traveler feedback, aiming to give you an honest and practical overview of what to expect from this Nepal adventure.