Food and Drinks on Poon Hill Trek

The Poon Hill Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic and accessible trekking routes. Located in the Annapurna region, this short yet rewarding trek is famous for its breathtaking sunrise view over the Himalayan peaks. But beyond the stunning landscapes and cultural charm, another important part of the trekking experience is food and drink. What you eat and drink along the trail fuels your journey, keeps you healthy, and adds a delightful cultural flavor to your adventure.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about food and drinks on the Poon Hill Trek.

How Are the Foods on the Poon Hill Trek?

Meals on the Poon Hill Trek are served at local teahouses—small lodges along the trail that offer food and accommodation. While you won’t find fancy dining or gourmet options, the food is homemade, filling, and comforting—just what a trekker needs after hours of hiking.

The menus are fairly standard across the trail, featuring Nepali staples and a few Western options:

Dal Bhat (rice with lentils, vegetables, and pickles)

Fried rice and noodles with vegetables or egg

Pasta with tomato sauce or cheese

Momos (Nepali dumplings)

Pancakes, porridge, chapati, and eggs for breakfast

The food is usually vegetarian, especially at higher elevations, and prepared fresh from locally sourced ingredients.

How Much Does Food Cost on the Poon Hill Trek?

The cost of food increases as you climb higher. That’s because everything must be carried up the mountains by porters or mules. Still, food is reasonably priced considering the effort it takes to get it there.

Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect:

Dal Bhat: NPR 500–800

Fried rice/noodles: NPR 400–700

Breakfast set: NPR 500–700

Soup or porridge: NPR 300–500

Hot drinks (tea/coffee): NPR 100–250

Bottled water: NPR 100–200

On average, trekkers spend NPR 2,500–3,500 per day on meals and drinks.

Can I Get Vegan Foods on the Poon Hill Trek?

Yes! Vegan food is fairly easy to find on the Poon Hill Trek. Traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat are plant-based when served without ghee (clarified butter). Vegetable noodles, fried rice, and boiled potatoes are also vegan-friendly.

To ensure your meals are 100% vegan:

Clearly communicate “no meat, no eggs, no milk, no butter”

Choose meals that are naturally vegan

Bring some vegan snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or protein bars

Can I Have Gluten-Free Food During the Poon Hill Trek?

Gluten-free options aren’t labeled on menus, but many meals can be made gluten-free if you ask. Dal Bhat is naturally gluten-free, and you can also safely eat:

Rice-based meals

Boiled or fried potatoes

Lentil soup

Scrambled or boiled eggs (if you're not vegan)

Avoid:

Bread, chapati, and pancakes (made from wheat)

Noodles or momos unless confirmed gluten-free

If you are sensitive to gluten, it’s a good idea to carry gluten-free snacks or instant meals.

Is Meat Forbidden on the Poon Hill Trek?

Meat is not banned, but it’s not always recommended. While some teahouses offer chicken or buffalo meat, freshness can be an issue. Since meat is transported without refrigeration, there is a higher risk of contamination, especially in higher villages.

Most trekkers choose to eat vegetarian meals during the trek for health and safety reasons. Dal Bhat, lentils, beans, and eggs provide sufficient protein.

Can I Bring My Own Food During the Poon Hill Trek?

Absolutely. Carrying your own food and snacks is a smart move, especially if you have dietary restrictions or want to save time and money.

Good trekking snacks include:

Granola or energy bars

Dried fruit and nuts

Trail mix

Instant soup or noodles

Electrolyte powders

Instant coffee or tea bags

Make sure to pack out all your wrappers and plastic waste responsibly.

Dietary Tips Along the Poon Hill Trek

Here are a few essential tips to stay healthy and energized during your trek:

Eat warm, cooked meals to avoid foodborne illness

Avoid raw vegetables or unpeeled fruits

Drink plenty of fluids—dehydration is common at altitude

Limit alcohol and caffeine

Choose carb-rich meals like rice, potatoes, or noodles to fuel your hike

Be cautious with dairy if you're not used to unpasteurized milk

How is the Breakfast on the Poon Hill Trek?

Breakfast is served early (around 6:30–8:00 AM) and includes options like:

Tibetan bread or toast with jam or honey

Boiled eggs, omelets

Pancakes (plain, banana, or apple)

Oats, porridge, or muesli

Black tea, masala tea, coffee, or hot lemon

A warm breakfast gives you the energy you need to start your trek or ascend to Poon Hill before sunrise.

How is Lunch on the Poon Hill Trek?

Lunch is often eaten at a teahouse mid-route, where trekkers stop for a rest. You’ll find dishes such as:

Dal Bhat (most popular)

Vegetable fried rice

Chowmein or pasta

Garlic soup (great for altitude)

Boiled or fried potatoes

Lunch is filling but not overly heavy—perfect for keeping your energy up during the hike.

What Will I Have for Dinner During the Poon Hill Trek?

Dinner is usually served where you stay overnight. Teahouses prepare meals in the common dining area, and it’s a time to relax and connect with other trekkers.

Dinner menus typically include:

Dal Bhat (you’ll love the refills!)

Thukpa (Sherpa noodle soup)

Vegetable curry with rice

Pasta or macaroni

Soup and toast

For dessert, some places offer apple pie or rice pudding, especially in bigger villages like Ghorepani or Ghandruk.

What Are the Drinks Available on the Poon Hill Trek?

Staying hydrated is essential on the trek, and you’ll have access to a variety of hot and cold drinks.

Available drinks include:

Boiled drinking water (safe and refillable)

Black tea, ginger tea, masala tea

Hot lemon or hot chocolate

Instant coffee

Soft drinks (Coke, Sprite – limited availability)

Beer or local liquor (not recommended while trekking)

To reduce plastic waste, bring a reusable bottle and refill it with boiled water or purified tap water.

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Final Words

Food and drink on the Poon Hill Trek may be simple, but they’re a big part of the trekking experience. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of hot Dal Bhat in a chilly mountain lodge or sipping ginger tea after a long day’s walk, these moments make the trek memorable.

With options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free trekkers, and a warm meal at every stop, you’ll never go hungry. Just be prepared, eat smart, and let the flavors of the Himalayas fuel your adventure.

Ready to explore Poon Hill? Book your trek with Haven Holidays and let us take care of the details—from food to permits—so you can focus on the journey.