Our mind is at musing when we reach serenity. Block out negativity and dive into a euphoric experience that tingles our senses every time we revisit our memories.
This very sanctuary lies 3,210 metres above sea level- the Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most famous peaks. As you draw closer from Pokhara to Nayapul in a rented car and preferably a guide, the thought of seeing the mountains from Poon Hill will be laced with promise. The west side of Poon-hill is filled with striking views of the picturesque mountains from where the peaks of Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Machapuchre- better known as the famous Fish-Tail, Dhaulagiri – the 7th highest mountain in the world, Mansalu and many more penetrate the clouds like skyscrapers. Trek all the way to the top of Poon Hill as early as possible in the Annapurna region of Nepal if you want to gaze at the mesmerising sunrise.
Now imagine a 360-degree panorama of the prodigious Himalaya Mountains, and the lush peeking through the array of cotton-like clouds floating across the summit-you have made it to the top! Sounds absolutely breath-taking right? For all that’s worth, Nepal is the perfect mix of natural beauty and rich culture that one can only experience by walking through them.
By now, it should be lunch time. Begin treking by walking through the hilltop villages; your next destination for the day is Ulleri (2070 m). Despite getting tired, the beautiful rice terraces, the glimpse of snow-capped mountains, the cherry blossoms will egg you on. Don’t be surprised if you have companions for it is a popular destination for trekkers. Spending a night to experience the enthralling moonbeam at a tea house is highly recommended; don’t forget to wake up to a beautiful sunrise streaming golden rays over the snowcapped mountain. This beautiful view will follow you from Ulleri all the way up to Ghorepani (2850m).
It’s time to make your way through the magical Rhododendron forest. The beautiful ponies and horses add to its charm. The sunlight peeking through the brooding forest, with chopped wood strewn around gives the atmosphere a surreal aura. A long walk through the forests and hilltop villages later, you’ll reach Ghorepani, a beautiful dainty village. The entire region is rife with lovely scenarios – the horizon speckled with an array of snowy, bare and lush green mountains. However, like all good things, the trip to the hilltops must end with a sumptuous dinner, speaking of which, the Ginger Soup and Fried Rice are a must try. As for breakfast, munch on their especial cheese toast and Tibetan bread.
Next, let’s walk down to Tadapani (2630 m). Beware! Once you sign up for this, there is no turning back. No doubt you’ll enjoy every bit of your journey but it’ll come with sore feet. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t be afraid to lose yourself in the sound of the streams, waterfalls and chirping birds while you’re at it. Making plans for a night in at Tadapani is recommended for the clear sky embedded in a bright moon and thousands of stars will be one of the best things you’ll ever see.
The Machapuchre and South Annapurna stand in all its glory on the way to Ghandruk, which, again, offers mesmerising views of rice terraces, marigolds and Fish-Tail Mountain. You might want to mingle with the localities for an insight into their cultures for Ghandruk is comparatively a busy village and quite interesting too where the only mode of commute is the foot.
From Ghandruk, one can make their way to Kimche for a bus to Pokhara and then sadly, back home to the daily hustle and bustle of life. But the memories you’ll make during the trip will make you smile every now and then.
By
Monisha Kaiser