Annapurna Base Camp (ABC):
Location: Situated in the Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal, the base camp is surrounded by towering peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli.
Altitude: The base camp is at an elevation of about 4,130 metres (13,549 feet).
Trekking Route: The trek to ABC often starts from Nayapul, passing through villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, and Deurali before reaching the base camp.
Highlights:
Breathtaking mountain views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Diverse landscapes, from terraced fields to alpine forests.
Opportunities to experience the local Gurung culture.
Surrounded by high peaks, creating a natural amphitheatre.
Poon Hill:
Location: Poon Hill is a popular viewpoint in the Annapurna region, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Altitude: Poon Hill is at an altitude of 3,210 metres (10,532 feet).
Trekking Route: Often included in the ABC trek, the trail to Poon Hill typically starts from Nayapul or Nayapul after a short drive from Pokhara.
Highlights:
Sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Ghorepani village, known for its charm and tea houses.
Rhododendron forests, especially beautiful during the spring bloom.
Close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountain.
While Poon Hill is a specific viewpoint, ABC is the destination for trekkers seeking to reach the base of the Annapurna massif.
Poon Hill can be visited as a shorter trek or as part of the ABC trek, adding an extra viewpoint experience.
Both locations offer stunning views, but ABC provides a more immersive experience surrounded by high peaks.
Both ABC and Poon Hill are popular trekking destinations, attracting adventurers from around the world with their natural beauty, cultural experiences, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The combination of these two destinations in a trek allows for a diverse and enriching journey through the Annapurna region of Nepal.