The sunrise from Poon Hill is one of the most popular moments in the Himalaya. This is how a clear October morning usually unfolds.
Quick answer: Expect a 4:30 a.m. start, a 45–60 minute climb by torchlight from Ghorepani, sunrise around 6 a.m. over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas, and breakfast back at the lodge by 8.
Your alarm, or your guide's knock. It's cold and dark; pull on every layer.
Headtorches bob up the stone steps from Ghorepani. You join a line of trekkers climbing quietly.
You reach the top, about 3,210 m, and buy a hot tea from the stall. Stars fade over the ridge.
A pink glow touches the summit of Dhaulagiri, then spreads along the range.
The sun rises. Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre turn gold. Cameras click.
The crowd thins. Take a moment without the phone.
Back down to Ghorepani for porridge and Tibetan bread, then on towards Tadapani.
Plan it: Poon Hill trek guide and Ghorepani.