Shyam Bahadur Lama
- Trekking & Tour Leader
"Live The Adventure Of A Lifetime"
Nepal School Expedition – Poon Hill
Recommended by 99.9% of travelers
Trip Code:
Hike26
Max. Altitude:
Poon Hill 3,210 meters
Duration:
14 Days
Best Time for Visit:
Spring & Autumn
Transportation:
Private Car, jeep, Bus
Difficulty:
Moderate
Region:
Nepal
Arrival On:
Kathmandu
Departure From:
Kathmandu
Trip Highlights for Nepal School Expedition – Poon Hill
- Embark on a 21-day educational expedition combining cultural immersion, community service, Himalayan trekking, and wildlife exploration across Nepal.
- Contribute to a meaningful community service project, working alongside local students and residents to support school improvement initiatives.
- Experience authentic Nepalese culture through guided visits to Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traditional villages, and cultural exchanges.
- Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m), surrounded by the spectacular peaks of the Annapurna Sanctuary, including Annapurna I and Machhapuchhre.
- Develop leadership, teamwork, and resilience through daily expedition challenges, shared responsibilities, and outdoor learning experiences.
- Walk through diverse Himalayan landscapes, including terraced farmland, rhododendron forests, alpine valleys, and traditional Gurung villages.
- Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views from Annapurna Base Camp, one of Nepal's most iconic trekking destinations.
- Explore Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
- Experience an exciting jeep safari, canoe ride, birdwatching excursion, and traditional Tharu cultural performance in Nepal's subtropical lowlands.
- Learn about environmental conservation and responsible travel through guided nature experiences and sustainable tourism practices.
- Stay in a variety of accommodations, including hotels, safari tents, mountain teahouses, and a jungle lodge, offering a diverse travel experience.
- Travel with experienced guides and expedition leaders, ensuring a safe, educational, and well-supported journey throughout Nepal.
Overview
The Nepal School Expedition – Poon Hill is a 14-day educational journey that combines cultural immersion, community service, adventure, and Himalayan trekking into one meaningful experience. Designed for school groups, the expedition encourages students to step beyond the classroom and develop practical life skills through real-world experiences, teamwork, and exploration.
The journey begins in Kathmandu, where students discover Nepal’s rich cultural heritage through guided visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant local markets, and historic temples. These experiences provide valuable insight into Nepal’s history, traditions, and everyday life while helping students build a deeper appreciation for different cultures.
Students then travel to Kakani, where they participate in a community service project alongside local teachers, students, and residents. Working together on school improvement initiatives allows participants to make a positive contribution while experiencing authentic cultural exchange. These shared experiences encourage empathy, collaboration, and a stronger understanding of community engagement.
Adventure continues with an exciting white-water rafting experience on the Trishuli River. Guided by experienced rafting professionals, students learn the importance of communication, trust, and teamwork as they navigate the river’s thrilling rapids in a safe and supportive environment.
The expedition concludes with the scenic Poon Hill Trek, one of Nepal’s most rewarding short Himalayan adventures. Walking through traditional Gurung villages, terraced hillsides, and beautiful rhododendron forests, students experience the diversity of the Annapurna region while building resilience and confidence with every step. The unforgettable sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 metres), overlooking the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, is a fitting reward for their efforts.
Throughout the expedition, students are encouraged to take responsibility, support one another, and embrace new challenges. Leadership opportunities, daily reflection sessions, and collaborative activities help strengthen communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills while fostering personal growth.
More than simply an adventure holiday, the Nepal School Expedition – Poon Hill offers a well-rounded educational experience that combines outdoor learning, cultural understanding, environmental awareness, and community engagement. Students return home with lasting friendships, greater confidence, and unforgettable memories, along with valuable life skills that continue to benefit them long after the journey has ended.
Detailed Nepal School Expedition – Poon Hill Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, complete immigration formalities and collect your baggage. Our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, the vibrant tourist hub of Kathmandu (Altitude: 1,350m).
Today you can:
- Purchase a local SIM card for your team phone (Ncell or Namaste/NTC recommended).
- Exchange your personal budget into Nepalese rupees.
- Familiarize yourselves with the days ahead.
If the team arrives in Nepal before dark, we will hold a meeting for team introduction and trip orientation this evening before dinner. The guide and the team leader will conduct the meeting with team introductions and a comprehensive trip orientation, covering logistics, safety, and daily routines, followed by a question-and-answer session.
If the team arrives in Nepal late this evening, our guide will meet you at your hotel tomorrow morning for the team meeting. The meeting time will be confirmed during airport pickup.
18:00 – We will then proceed to our welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant featuring cultural performances.
Accommodation: Hotel Kailash Kutee, Thamel Kathmandu
06:30 : Student wake up and pack bags for the day
07:00 – Enjoy your first breakfast in Nepal at the hotel.
08:00 – If the team meeting did not happen yesterday, our guide and the team leader will conduct the meeting with team introductions and a comprehensive trip orientation, covering logistics, safety, and daily routines, followed by a question-and-answer session.
10:00 – Following the meeting, enjoy a full-day guided tour of Kathmandu’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)– An ancient hilltop stupa offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square– The historic heart of the city, featuring royal palaces, courtyards, and intricately carved temples.
- Pashupatinath Temple– One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati River.
Lunch will be served at an appropriate time during the day.
15:00 – Arrive back from the tour to Hotel Kailash Kutee, Thamel. Rest and preparation for community project until we meet for dinner.
18:00 – Dinner in a restaurant near by the hotel
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags for the day
07:00 – Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing Kathmandu.
09:30 – We drive 25 km, approximately 1.5 hours to Kakani Village, nestled in the hills north of the valley.
11:00 – Arrive at Kakani Brighter Secondary School. You will be welcomed by the school community and given a tour of the school to see the available facilities. You will also receive an orientation covering the tasks for the coming days, introductions to the local team, and preparation for the work ahead.
You will be provided with a lockable room for storing your belongings, resting, and holding group meetings during the volunteering period.
Note: Local skilled laborers, tools and project supplies will be pre-arranged
Tasks may include:
- Painting and general renovations
- Construction of pathways or retaining walls
- Landscaping and ground leveling
- Educational and cultural exchange activities with local students
12:30- Lunch time. Lunch will be provided at the project site for the duration of your volunteer work.
You may begin working alongside the local skilled laborers after lunch.
16:00 – Conclude the tasks for the day and walk to Kakani Adventure Camp for your overnight stay (40-minute walk). We will walk this distance daily to and from the project site. This daily walking serves as excellent warm-up for your upcoming Poon Hill trek.
Your backpacks and other belongings will be transported to the campsite by jeep.
Upon arrival, you will be shown to your safari tents and given a tour of the camp facilities. Here, we settle into our base for the volunteering period.
18:30 – Dinner time.
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags for the day.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:30 – Walk to the project school (40 minutes)
Today marks a full day of hands-on community service. Working alongside local skilled laborers and community members, students will contribute to meaningful infrastructure improvements at a local school.
Throughout the day, students will rotate through different workstations, ensuring everyone gains a variety of experiences. The focus is on collaboration, teamwork, and cultural exchange. In the evening, engage with the local community through storytelling, games, and music.
Additional activities include play games, exchange stories and languages with the local community.
Leadership & Creativity Opportunities:
- Take turns leading small work teams.
- Facilitate group discussions on the day’s progress.
- Document experiences through photography, journaling, or sketching.
12:30- Lunch time.
16:00 – Return back to the campsite for overnight.
18:30 – Dinner time
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags for the day.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:30 – Walk to the project school (40 minutes)
The final day of the community project is dedicated to completing remaining tasks and leaving the site in good order. Students will work alongside locals to finish renovations, clean up the work area, and celebrate the achievements of the past three days.
12:30 – Lunch time.
Community Farewell in the late afternoon: The local community will host a farewell ceremony, expressing gratitude through traditional songs, dances, and speeches. This is a powerful moment of cultural exchange and reflection on the impact of your contribution.
16:00 – Return back to the campsite for overnight.
18:30 – Dinner time
06:00 – Student wake up and pack bags to leave the place.
06:30 – Breakfast
07:30 – Drive to Trisuli 120 km.
Lunch on the way at suitable time.
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Kakani community and embark on a scenic drive of approximately 4 hours (120 km) toward the Charaudi, Trishuli River, one of Nepal’s most popular white-water rafting destinations, where your rafting adventure begins!
With a thorough safety briefing from rafting guide and being fitted with safety gear, you will work with your rafting guides to navigate through rapids like Snell’s Nose, Monkey, and Teen Devi before heading to the shore for an overnight stay at a riverside camp.
After an adrenaline-fuelled day on the river, unwind at a riverside camp, gather around the bonefire, and enjoy a delicious dinner while sharing stories with your crew.
16:00 – Arrive Safari Tented, Rafting Camp, Trishuli River
18:00 – Dinner time
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags to leave the place.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:00 – Drive to Pokhara 96 km. (3 hour)
Embark on a scenic 3 hour drive to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lakeside city and the gateway to the Annapurna region.
The journey winds through river valleys, hillside farms, and rural villages, offering your first glimpses of Nepal’s dramatic landscapes.
11:00 – Arrive Hotel Crown Himalayas, Lakeside Pokhara. Settle in.
12:00 – Start guided tour to the World Peace Pagoda, a gleaming white stupa that sits above Phewa Lake. From here you can enjoy wide views of Pokhara and the surrounding hills and on a clear day the distant Himalayan peaks.
Lunch will be served at an appropriate time during the day.
Later you can wander through the lively lakeside streets and explore local shops and cafes and pick up any last minute gear you may need for the trek.
17:30 – Group meeting at your hotel, where your leaders and guides will brief you on backpacking, trek route, daily routines, altitude awareness, and safety protocols for the days ahead.
18:00 – Dinner time
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags to leave for the trek.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:00 – Drive from the hotel to Birethanti
- Drive: 48 km. (1.5 hour)
- Trek: 8 km (4-5 hours)
- Sleeping Elevation: Alt. 1540 m.
- Accommodation: Local Teahouse, Tikhedhunga
- Equipment carrier: Porters will carry group gear; students will carry daypacks only for the duration of the trek.
After breakfast, a scenic 1.5-hour drive takes you beyond the Pokhara Valley to Birethanti, the trailhead for your trek. The route winds along the valley’s outskirts, revealing breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and patchwork farmlands, before descending into the warmer lowlands of Nayapul, nestled beside the Pokhara–Beni highway.
From Birethanti, the trail ascends through dense forests and traditional villages, with spectacular mountain views accompanying you along the way. After a rewarding day of walking, you will arrive at the picturesque village of Tikhedunga, where you will rest for the night.
Lunch will be served at an appropriate time during the day.
15:00 – Arrive at your teahouse for the overnight.
18:00 – Dinner time
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags for the day.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:00 – Start trekking
- Trek: 10 km (5-6 hours)
- Sleeping Elevation: Alt. 2860 m.
- Accommodation: Local Teahouse, Ghorepani
The trail features the famous 3,300 stone steps from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri, a challenging but rewarding climb. From Ulleri, the path continues through rhododendron and oak forests to Ghorepani (2,860m), a charming hilltop village with stunning mountain views.
Lunch will be served at an appropriate time during the day.
16:00 – Arrive at your teahouse for the overnight.
18:00 – Dinner time
04:00 – Student wake up and pack bags for the hike to Poon Hill.
04:30 – Start hiking up to Poon Hill.
06:00 – Arrive Poon Hill top for a spectacular sunrise panoramas in the Himalaya.
- Trek: 11.5 km (6-7 hours)
- Sleeping Elevation: Alt. 2540 m.
- Accommodation: Local Teahouse, Tadapani
- Poon Hill Sunrise: Prepare for an early start (4:00–4:30 AM)
This is the highlight of the trek. We depart Ghorepani early in the morning (pre-dawn) for the ascent to Poon Hill (3,210m), a famous viewpoint offering one of the most spectacular sunrise panoramas in the Himalaya. Watch as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna (8,091 m), Machhapuchhare and dozens of other snow-capped giants.
After soaking in the views and capturing photographs, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue our trek to Tadapani (2,630m). The trail winds through dense rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and birds along the way.
Lunch will be served at an appropriate time during the day.
16:00 – Arrive at your teahouse for the overnight.
18:00 – Dinner time
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags for the day.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:00 – Start trekking
- Trekking: 10 km (5-6 hours)
- Sleeping Elevation: Alt. 1565 m.
- Accommodation: Local Teahouse, Landruk
Today’s trail winds downward through enchanting forests of rhododendron and oak, passing through the villages of Bhurjung Khola and Kimche. Along the way, we are rewarded with sweeping views of Annapurna South and the iconic Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) peak.
En route, we pass through Gandruk (1,940m)—a vibrant Gurung village renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional stone architecture, and warm hospitality. Widely regarded as one of the most picturesque villages in the Annapurna region, Gandruk offers a fascinating glimpse into Gurung traditions and daily life.
Lunch will be served at an appropriate time during the day.
From Gandruk, we descend to the Modi Khola, cross the river, and follow a gentle uphill trail to Landruk—a delightful Gurung settlement where we will rest for the night.
15:00 – Arrive at your teahouse for the overnight.
18:00 – Dinner time
06:30 – Student wake up and pack bags for the day.
07:00 – Breakfast
08:00 – Start trekking
- Trek: 12 km (5-6 hours)
- Drive: 23 km. (1 hour)
- Sleeping Elevation: Alt. 850 m.
- Accommodation: Hotel Crown Himalayas, Pokhara
Our final day of the trek starts with hiking through farmland then climb gradually through a rhododendron forest before reaching Australian Camp. From here, descend to Kade to meet your transfer back to Pokhara.
15:00 – Arrive Hotel Crown Himalayas, Pokhara. Settle into the accommodation and enjoy some well deserved rest. Spend the evening exploring the Fewa lakeside area and relaxed atmosphere of Nepal’s favourite adventure town.
18:00 – Dinner time
06:00 – Student wake up and pack bags to leave the place.
06:30 – Breakfast
07:30 – Drive from the hotel to Kathmandu 200 km (7-8 hours). Leave Pokhara after breakfas for Kathmandu, winding through river valleys, hillside farms, and rural villages. The journey offers a final opportunity to appreciate Nepal’s dramatic landscapes.
Lunch on the way at suitable time.
14:00 – On arrival in of Kathmandu you will head to Thamel to check into your accomodation. Spend the late evening relaxing at your hotel or wandering around the streets of Thamel.
18:00 – Dinner time
07:00 – Student wake up pack bags.
08:00 – Breakfast. Enjoy a final breakfast in Kathmandu.
09:30 – If time permits, your guide will take you to:
- Boudhanath Stupa– A final visit to this iconic giant Buddhist stupa
- Asan Market and Thamel Market: Wander through the vibrant, chaotic bazaar to pick up any last-minute handicrafts, textiles, or pashminas.
Afterward, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport 3 hours before your flight departure time, carrying with you memories, friendships, and a newfound sense of confidence to take on the world.
*Note:
- A team meeting will be held every evening before dinner to share experiences, discuss queries, and review plans.
Experienced Guides
Cost Included
Accommodation
- Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Kakani Adventure Camp (Safari Tented Camp)
- Riverside Safari Tented Camp on the Trishuli River
- Local teahouses during the Poon Hill Trek
Meals
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the expedition
- Welcome dinner with traditional Nepali cultural performance
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Transportation
- Airport arrival and departure transfers
- Private transportation throughout the expedition
- All road transfers as outlined in the itinerary
Trekking & Adventure
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- All trekking permits
- White-water rafting experience
- Professional rafting guides and safety equipment
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter support during the trek (students carry daypacks only)
- Group first-aid kit
- Daily safety and altitude briefings
Community Project
- Community service project coordination
- Local supervisors and skilled labour
- Construction materials and equipment
- Cultural exchange activities with the local school and community
Sightseeing & Activities
- Guided Kathmandu heritage tour
- Pokhara sightseeing
- World Peace Pagoda visit
- Leadership and reflection sessions
- Cultural performances and farewell ceremony
Guides & Support
- Experienced English-speaking expedition leader
- Licensed trekking guides
- Professional rafting guides
- Local support staff throughout the expedition
Entrance Fees & Taxes
- Monument entrance fees
- Trekking permit fees
- Government taxes and service charges
Cost Not Included
- International airfare
- Airport taxes (if applicable)
- Nepal visa fees
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking, rafting, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation
- Personal snacks and beverages
- Laundry, Telephone and internet charges,
- Personal trekking equipment
- Personal medical expenses
- Emergency rescue or helicopter evacuation
- Additional expenses caused by weather, road closures, natural disasters, or flight delays
- Gratuities for guides, rafting crew, porters, drivers, and support staff
- Any services not specifically listed under Cost Included
Equipment & Packing List
In addition to making trekking more enjoyable, having the appropriate gear guarantees your safety and readiness for a range of situations. Regardless of skill level, every hiker has to invest in high-quality equipment and understand how to utilize it properly. A delightful journey can differ from a difficult ordeal depending on the level of planning and equipment used. Please make your selections of the necessary equipment from the list below.
Clothing
- Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers
- Fleece Jacket Or Pullover
- Warm Cotton Trousers
- Shirts And T-Shirts
- Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
- Sun Hat Or Scarf
- Woolen Hat
- Sunglasses
- Raincoat
Footwear
- Trekking Boot
- Thick Socks
- Light Socks
- Camp Shoes
- Sandals
Essential Gear
- Sleeping Bag(4seasons)
- Down Jacket
- Daypack
- Water Bottle
- Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Personal & Miscellaneous Items
- Insect Repellent
- Laundry Soap
- Plasters
- Cards And Personal Medical Kit
- Toilet Articles
- Pocketknife
- Binoculars
- Notebook & Pen
- Towel
- Camera
- Toilet Roll
- Sewing Kit
- Film
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FAQ's For Nepal School Expedition – Poon Hill
This expedition is designed for secondary schools, colleges, and youth groups looking for a balanced educational program combining culture, community engagement, adventure, and outdoor learning.
The trek is graded easy to moderate, with daily walks of approximately 4–6 hours. It is suitable for students with a reasonable level of fitness and does not require previous trekking experience.
The highest point is Poon Hill (3,210 metres / 10,531 feet).
No. Previous trekking experience is not required. Our experienced guides provide comprehensive briefings and support throughout the trek.
Yes. Rafting is conducted by certified professional rafting guides using internationally approved safety equipment. Students receive a detailed safety briefing before entering the river.
Depending on local needs, students may assist with classroom painting, landscaping, pathway construction, school improvements, and cultural exchange activities with local students.
Accommodation includes comfortable hotels, safari tented camps, riverside camping, and traditional mountain teahouses, offering students a variety of experiences throughout the expedition.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the expedition. Vegetarian and most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide the most favourable weather for trekking, rafting, and sightseeing.
As a locally owned and operated adventure company based in Kathmandu, Lhasso Adventure specializes in educational travel, trekking, and community-based expeditions across Nepal. Our experienced local team designs safe, well-organized programs that combine adventure, cultural immersion, responsible tourism, and meaningful learning, giving students an authentic experience while supporting local communities.
If you have any more specific questions or need further details, please feel free to contact us anytime.
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