2 Day Poon Hill Trek with 2 Day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour

Travelers seeking a blend of mountain majesty and wildlife wonders will find this 4-day adventure in Nepal irresistibly appealing. Combining a scenic trek to witness the world-famous sunrise over the Annapurna range with an exhilarating jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and local culture. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their short time in Nepal without sacrificing authentic experiences.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll get to see sunrise views over the Himalayas from Poon Hill, arguably one of the most iconic sights in the country. Second, the chance to spot wildlife like rhinos, deer, and possibly even tigers in Chitwan makes it a thrilling experience for nature lovers. Third, the cultural element—including a Tharu dance performance—adds depth to your adventure. That said, the long travel days, especially from Pokhara to Chitwan, might be tiring for some.

This tour suits travelers with a sense of adventure who enjoy a mix of physical activity, wildlife, cultural encounters, and stunning scenery—all packed into four days.

Good To Know

• Stunning Himalayan sunrise views from Poon Hill with panoramic peaks.
• Charming villages like Ghorepani and Ulleri nestled amid lush forests.
• Wildlife encounters including jeep safaris, canoe rides, and birdwatching.
• Cultural experiences such as Tharu dance performances and local village visits.
• Good value at $697, considering the included transport, permits, and activities.
• Long travel days may be a challenge but are part of the adventure.

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Exploring the Poon Hill Trek

The trek begins with a comfortable drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, where the scenery impresses immediately—terraced fields sprawling across rolling hills, framed by distant mountain peaks. From there, you start your ascent through thick rhododendron forests (a highlight if you’re visiting during spring when blooms are in full swing). The trail is moderately challenging, mostly uphill but manageable, with plenty of charming village stops along the way.

Ghorepani, your main stop for the night, offers good guesthouse accommodation. Its location makes it the perfect base for the early morning Poon Hill sunrise hike. Reviewers mention the “cozy guesthouses with warm hospitality,” which is appreciated after a day of trekking. You’ll be sleeping at around 2874m, so some might feel the effects of altitude, though most find it manageable with proper pacing.

The Sunrise at Poon Hill

The morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) is the highlight of the trek. It’s a 45-minute uphill walk, which many find worth the effort. Expect to wake up early—some tour operators suggest leaving around 4:30 am—so you can arrive in time for the sunrise. The moment the first light hits the peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, the view is absolutely breathtaking.

One reviewer describes it as “a moment I will never forget”—the sky turning shades of pink and orange, with the mountains glowing in the dawn light. From Poon Hill, you also get a great view of Machapuchare, the famous fishtail peak, and a panoramic outlook that makes the early wake-up call worthwhile.

After sunrise viewing, you descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast, leaving plenty of time to relax before heading back down to Ulleri and continuing your journey.

Transition to Chitwan: From Mountain Views to Jungle Adventures

After finishing the trek, you’ll journey from Pokhara to Chitwan, which takes approximately 9 to 10 hours by private vehicle. While the long travel time might seem daunting, it’s necessary to connect two of Nepal’s most interesting landscapes. The drive itself offers glimpses of the changing scenery, from mountain vistas to flat plains and river valleys.

Upon arrival, you check into a comfortable jungle lodge, where you’re welcomed with a drink and a briefing about your upcoming activities. The lodge experience provides a nice contrast to the mountain trek—more relaxed, with a chance to unwind before the wildlife adventures.

Wildlife Encounters in Chitwan

The core of the Chitwan experience is the jeep safari and canoe rides. The jeep safaris are a highlight for many, with the opportunity to spot a wide array of animals such as crocodiles, deer, rhinoceroses, and with luck, the Bengal tiger. Reviewers mention the guides are experienced and knowledgeable, making spotting wildlife more likely and enjoyable.

The canoe ride along Rapti River is another favorite, offering a peaceful way to observe exotic bird species and crocodiles basking in the sun. Many reviewers appreciate the well-organized activities, noting that the safaris feel authentic and not overly commercialized.

In the evening, guests often enjoy a performance of Tharu cultural dance, which provides insight into local traditions and adds a lively cultural touch to the safari experience.

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Practical Details & Considerations

The tour includes private transfers from Pokhara to Ulleri, Chitwan, and back to Kathmandu or Pokhara, ensuring a smooth journey without the stress of arranging transportation. Accommodation is in good guest houses and 2-star hotels, offering decent comfort for the price point. Includes all necessary permits and official documents, so there’s no hassle on arrival.

While the price of $697 per person might seem steep, it covers a lot—transport, guides, permits, activities, and some meals—making it quite reasonable given the included experiences. Note that food and drinks during the trek are not included, so budget extra for meals outside the provided breakfast.

Travelers should be prepared for the long travel days, particularly the from Pokhara to Chitwan. Also, pack essentials like hiking shoes, sunscreen, water bottles, and trekking gear to ensure comfort during the hike. Seasonal timing is important: the best months are March to May and September to December when weather conditions are most favorable.

What Reviewers Say

Many appreciated the stunning sunrise views that justified the early wake-up calls. One reviewer said, “The view from Poon Hill at sunrise was worth every step”—adding that it truly is one of Nepal’s most memorable sights. Others enjoyed the cultural aspect, especially the Tharu dance, which added a local flavor to their trip.

On the wildlife side, guests mentioned that the jeep safaris were well-organized, and they felt they had a good chance of spotting animals, though nature is unpredictable. Some noted that the long drive from Pokhara to Chitwan was tiring but worth it for the diverse experience.

The Sum Up

This combined trek and safari tour offers an excellent introduction to Nepal’s natural diversity, all packed into four days. For mountain lovers, the sunrise at Poon Hill is a bucket-list moment, while wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to see animals in their natural habitat. The experience balances outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and scenic beauty, making it perfect for travelers who want variety without a prolonged trip.

While the long travel days might be a downside for some, the value offered in terms of activities, scenery, and cultural exposure makes this a compelling choice for those with limited time in Nepal. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors seeking an authentic taste of the country’s highlights without sacrificing comfort.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour covers private transfers from Pokhara to Ulleri, Chitwan, and back, experienced guides, permits, and activities including jeep safaris, canoe rides, and a Tharu cultural dance. Accommodation in guesthouses and some meals are also included.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks during the trek are available for purchase, so budget accordingly. Breakfast is included in Chitwan, and food options are available in the lodges during the trek.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, cash, passport (or copy), hiking pants, reusable water bottle, and trekking gear to stay comfortable during hikes.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour involves moderate trekking and long travel days, so it may not be suitable for very young children or travelers with mobility issues. Always check with the provider if unsure.

What is the best time of year to go?
The ideal months are March to May and September to December, when the weather is most reliable—clear skies for Himalaya views and comfortable trekking conditions.

How difficult is the trek?
The trek to Poon Hill involves a 7-8 hour day on manageable trails with some uphill sections. It is suitable for most healthy adults who enjoy walking and have a reasonable fitness level.

Will I see wildlife during the safari?
While sightings depend on luck, guided jeep safaris and canoe rides are designed to maximize wildlife encounters. Rhinos, deer, and birds are common, and tiger sightings are possible but not guaranteed.

How long are the travel days?
The journey from Pokhara to Chitwan takes about 9 to 10 hours by private vehicle, which can be tiring but is necessary to connect the diverse landscapes of Nepal.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour is organized by Tour guide in Nepal with fixed itineraries, but some flexibility might be available—particularly around timing and optional activities. Booking in advance is recommended for best arrangements.

This 4-day trip is a fantastic way to experience Nepal’s mountain and wildlife wonders—offering memorable sights, cultural insights, and a taste of adventure. Whether you’re waking early for sunrise or spotting a crocodile in the river, this tour promises genuine moments that stay with you long after you leave.

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