Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek

Poon hill trek with mardi himal
Starting Price:
$1050Per Person
$125
( Based on 5 Reviews )
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Trip Highlights

  • Trip Code:NHA308
  • Destination:Nepal
  • Total Duration:12 Days
  • Trip Price:$125
  • Trip Grade:Moderate
  • Best Time:Sep to Dec And Jan To May
  • Max Elevation:4200 M
  • Start Point:Kathmandu
  • End Point:Kathmandu
  • Accommodation:lodge to lodge
  • Transportation:By Car/van/Bus on sharing basis

Trip Highlights

  • Panoramic vistas of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Himalchuli, and other majestic Himalayan peaks.
  • Witness an unforgettable sunrise from Poon Hill as golden light illuminated the snow-capped peaks.
  • Escape the busy routes with the serene and secluded Mardi Himal trail that offers untouched natural beauty.
  • Explore charming Magar and Gurung villages, experience local traditions, and enjoy warm hospitality from the locals.
  • Trek through terraced farmland’s, and pine forests, and dramatic high-altitude terrains.
  • Provides incredible panoramic view of the Annapurna range from Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters), with strikingly close sights of towering peaks like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and the surrounding valleys.
  • Enjoy vast vistas like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) from High Camp (3,580 meters) where the scenery is both peaceful and breathtaking.
  • A perfect balance of adventure, with challenging yet rewarding trails, and serene moments surrounded by stunning landscapes.
  • Begin and end the trek near the beautiful lake city of Pokhara offering opportunities for relaxation and some worthy attractions including Phewa Lake, David Fall, World Peace Pagoda, and International Mountaineering Museum.
  • Trek through vibrant forests along with blooming dense rhododendrons during the spring season in the Annapurna region.
  • Enjoy breathtaking light displays over the Himalayas from strategic viewpoints along the trail. 

Tour Overview

The Poon Hill- Mardi Himal Trek is a spectacular choice for anyone seeking a relatively short yet rewarding trekking experience in Nepal’s iconic Annapurna region. The Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek follows a grouping of two popular trekking routes: the Poon Hill Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek. This journey combines the beauty and popularity of Poon Hill (3,210 meters) with the peacefulness, serene and less-traveled trails of Mardi Himal (5,587 meters), creating a unique experience that balances cultural immersion, scenic magnificence, and a moderate level of physical challenge. Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek serves as a fantastic substitute for the busy Annapurna Base Camp route, providing similarly breathtaking Himalayan vistas within a shorter duration.

What makes Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek truly special is its incredible diversity of landscapes, ranging from terraced farmlands and lush rhododendron forests to high-altitude alpine meadows with awe-inspiring views of some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Annapurna South (7,219 meters), Machhapuchhre (Fistail) (6,993 meters), and Himalchuli (7,893 meters). Along the way, trekkers can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Magar and Gurung communities and interacting with locals in traditional villages and experiencing their warm hospitality.

Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek has two renowned trails, beginning with the Poon Hill Trek and continuing seamlessly into the Mardi Himal Trek. The Poon Hill portion of the trek offers breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, vibrant rhododendron forests and warm hospitality from local communities. The Mardi Himal portion of the trek provides spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal itself and offers a sense of discovery, as it remains relatively untouched and far from the crowded trails of other popular treks. The viewpoints along the trek offer magical sunrise and sunset experiences over the snow-capped peaks. Diverse wildlife can be spotted in the forests, including various bird species and Himalayan animals. The peaceful ambiance and panoramic views from High Camp (3,580 meters) and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters) are sure to leave trekkers in awe.

Unlike some of the more challenging treks in Nepal, Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek journey is accessible to people who has moderate fitness levels as the route is designed to minimize risks related to altitude sickness as most of the trek remains below 3,500 meters, with only the final leg to Mardi Himal Base Camp reaching higher evaluations.

Detail Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from the Nepal Hiking Adventure Company. They will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. After settling in, you can take some time to relax or explore the vibrant city of Kathmandu if your schedule allows.

On Day 2, you will begin your journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Pokhara is the starting point for the Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek. The drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, depending on the traffic to go around 205 kilometers, offering beautiful views of the countryside, rivers, and mountain landscapes along the way. Upon the arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore the picturesque lakeside area, or enjoy the serene views of the Annapurna range. You will spend the night in Pokhara, preparing for the trek ahead.

If you prefer a quicker option, we can arrange a direct flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara for you, at an additional cost. The flight takes just 25 minutes, allowing you to enjoy stunning aerial view of the Pokhara valley and surrounding landscapes, giving you more time to relax and explore upon arrival.

You will embark on a short drive from Pokhara to Birethanti, the starting point of your Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and passes through picturesque landscapes and small settlements. From Birethanti, your trekking adventure begins as you make your way towards Ulleri.  The trail ascends gradually passing terraced fields, lush greenery, and charming villages such as Hile and Tikhedhunga. The trek includes a steep climb of stone steps before reaching Ulleri, a beautiful Magar village.

Upon reaching Ulleri, you will be greeted with stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, providing a taste of the majestic Himalayan landscaped awaiting you. You will spend the night here, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and a peaceful ambience.

Your trek continues as you journey from Ulleri to Ghorepani. The trail ascends gradually, taking you through dense forests filled with rhododendron, oak, and magnolia trees. During the spring season, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant shades, adding a magical touch to the sorroundings.

As you climb higher, you’ll pass through scenic villages like Banthanti and Nangethanti, where you can take short breaks and enjoy the local ambiance. Upon reaching Ghorepani, a picturesque village perched at 2,880 meters, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli and Annapurna South. The sunset and sunrise views from here are especially breathtaking.

You will spend the night in Ghorepani, preparing for an early morning hike to Poon Hill to witness one of the most stunning Himalayan sunrises.

Your trek continues as you journey from Ulleri to Ghorepani. The trail ascends gradually, taking you through dense forests filled with rhododendron, oak, and magnolia trees. During the spring season, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant shades, adding a magical touch to the sorroundings.

As you climb higher, you’ll pass through scenic villages like Banthanti and Nangethanti, where you can take short breaks and enjoy the local ambiance. Upon reaching Ghorepani, a picturesque village perched at 2,880 meters, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli and Annapurna South. The sunset and sunrise views from here are especially breathtaking.

You will spend the night in Ghorepani, preparing for an early morning hike to Poon Hill to witness one of the most stunning Himalayan sunrises.

On Day 5, you will begin your day with an early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters), just a short but steep ascent from Ghorepani which takes about an hour to reach. The early start rewards you with one of the most stunning sunrises in the Himalayas. From Poon Hill, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges including towering peaks like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Manaslu, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Bahari Shikhar, Lamjung Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other peaks all bathed in the golden light of dawn.

After soaking in the breathtaking views, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue your Mardi Himal with Poon Hill Trek towards Tadapani. The trail descends and then climbs through beautiful rhododendron forests, passing through villages like Banthanti. As you approach Tadapani, the trail opens up to amazing views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Tadapani, at 2,630 meters, is a peaceful village with an excellent view point for Himalayan views. You will spend the night here surrounded by nature’s majestic mountain scenery.

You will begin your Poon Hill Trek with Mardi Himal Trek by descending from Tadapani towards the village of Ghandruk, situated at an altitude of 1,940 meters. Ghandruk is a large Gurung village known for its traditional stone houses and spectacular views of the Annapurna range. Take some time to explore the village and enjoy its scenic surroundings before continuing your trek. From Ghandruk, you will descend further towards the valley, passing through terraced fields and small settlements.

Continuing your journey, you will reach Landruk at 1,565 meters. The route offers views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli which provides beautiful vistas as you approach Landruk. This peaceful village, with its stone houses and terraced farmland will be your destination for the day, where you can rest and enjoy the serene atmosphere before continuing your adventure.

On Day 7, you’ll start your Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek from Landruk and make your way up to Low Camp. The trail climbs steadily through terraced fields and forests filled with rhododendron and oak trees. As you get higher, the surroundings become quitter, and you’ll enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.

You’ll pass through a few small villages and get occasional views of the Annapurna Mountains in the distance. The trail becomes steeper as you get closer to Low Camp, but the effort is worth it when you see stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the other peaks.

Once you reach Low Camp, you’ll be at 3,050 meters, a quiet place to rest and enjoy the views. It’s a great spot to help your body adjust to the higher altitude before continuing your trek the next day.

The journey of Poon Hill with Mardi Himal trek for the Day 8 will begin at Low Camp and you will be ascending through a lush rhododendron forest, taking about an hour to reach Badal Danda (Cloud Hill). From here, the trail continue to High Camp and as you ascend, the dense forests gradually give way to open alpine landscapes which offers uninterrupted views of majestic peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. To your left, you’ll see the Modi Khola River Valley, while the Mardi Khola and Seti River Valleys stretch out to your right. On clear days, the Pokhara Valley is also visible in the distance. It you’re lucky, you might even spot a daphne (Himalayan monal), Nepal’s national bird, adding a touch of wildlife to your trek to High Camp.

The trail becomes steeper in parts, but the rewarding views make it worthwhile. You’ll pass through rugged terrain and grasslands, where the mountain air feels crisp and refreshing. Reaching High Camp, situatued at 3,600 meters, you’ll be greeted by a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayan views of Machapuchhre and Annapurna South.

Begin your day with an early trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp, a journey that is both challenging and unforgettable. You will get up early in order to experience the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic mountains today. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you ascend making this section as the most challenging part of the Poon Hill-Mardi Himal Trek. It takes approximately 5 hours to reach to Base Camp, requiring you to navigate uneven paths and steep sections.

As you climb higher, the surroundings transform and offers panoramic views of the Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Annapurna III (7,555m), and Gangapurna (7,455m). The sense of achievement grows with each step and upon reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at an elevation of 4,500 meters, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled vistas of snow-capped mountains and the dramatic landscapes of the Himalayas.

After enjoying this high-altitude heaven, you’ll retrace your steps back to High Camp and continue descending to Badal Danda, where the serene surroundings and stunning mountain vistas provide a perfect opportunity to unwind.

On Day 10, you will descend from Badal Danda to Lumre. The trail gradually takes you downhill¸ passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages. Upon reaching Lumre, a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara. This marks the end of your trekking adventure of Poon Hill-Mardi Himal Trek, and you can relax in Pokhara, enjoying the city’s lakeside ambiance.

After enjoying breakfast you will set off on a drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The journey takes around 7-8 hours depending on the traffic to go around 205 kilometers. and offers scenic views of lush hills, terraced fields, winding rivers, and picturesque villages along the way.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can enjoy a relaxing evening or some last-minute exploration of the city. Like this, the Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek will come to a successful and satisfying conclusion.

Day 12 marks your final departure. If you inform us about your departure time, we will arrange an airport transfer for you based on your flight schedule. If you have some extra time before your flight, we can organize optional side trips for you, or you are welcome to explore the city at your own pace before heading to the airport.

Cost and Dates

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Additional Info

When to go to Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek?

Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek in Autumn Season

  • The best time to trek to Poon Hill Mardi Himal is during autumn (September to November). In autumn, the route offers clear skies, stable weather, and crisp temperatures, providing the best visibility of the Himalayan peaks. This is the peak trekking season in Nepal.

Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek in Spring Season

  • The best time to trek to Poon Hill Mardi Himal is spring (March to May). In spring, it’s ideal for witnessing the vibrant rhododendron blooms along the trails, with pleasant weather and clear mountain views. It is also less crowded than autumn.

Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek in Winter Season

  • For the winter season, there are both pros and cons. In winter (December to February), the pros can be that the routes are less crowded, offering a more peaceful trekking experience and clear, crisp views of the mountains can be seen especially in the lower altitudes. But the cons during winter season are cold temperatures, especially at higher altitudes like Mardi Himal Base Camp and High Camp, with possible snow on the trail and also the risk of altitude sickness.

Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek in Summer/Monsoon Season

  • For the summer/monsoon season, there are both pros and cons. In summer/monsoon season (June to August), there will be lush green landscapes, vibrant forests, and flowing rivers, making it a beautiful time for nature lovers. But the heavy rainfall can make the trails slippery and more challenging, and some parts of the trek may be muddy or washed out and frequent cloud cover and rain may obscure mountain views during summer/monsoon season.

In summary, the autumn and spring seasons offer the most favorable weather and are the best time for the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek.

Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek Route

The Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek follows a combination of two popular trekking routes: the Poon Hill Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek.

The Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara that might take around 7 to 8 hours, where you will get ready for the trek. Next day, you will drive to Birethanti from Pokhara for around an hour and fifteen minutes, the starting point of the trek, and then trek through lush forests and terraced fields to reach Tikhedhunga or Ulleri. Next day, you will continue your trek through rhododendron forests, passing Banthanti and making your way to Ghorepani, a popular stop with stunning mountain views. On the next day, you will wake up early to hike to Poon Hill for an unforgettable sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, before heading back to Ghorepani for breakfast.

After breakfast, you will continue your trek to Tadapani, a picturesque village surrounded by forests, and then make your way to Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village known for its views from Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. From Ghandruk, you will trek to Landruk, where you will start the Mardi Himal portion of the trek. As you trek through Forest Camp and Low Camp, you will gradually ascend towards High Camp, where you will be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks.

The next day, you will trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp, located at 4,500 meters, offering spectacular close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the surrounding peaks. After spending time at the base camp, you will descend to Badal Danda and then continue your trek down to Siding, where you will spend the night. On the final day of the trek, you will drive back to Pokhara and then return to Kathmandu, where your memorable trek will come to an end.

We understand that every traveler has unique preferences and requirements. Therefore, we are more than happy to tailor this package according to your available time, budget, and physical endurance, ensuring an experience that suits your needs perfectly. Whether you wish to adjust the itinerary, include additional activities, or need assistance with any other arrangements, we are here to assist you. For any questions, more details, or to discuss how we can personalize your Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek package, please feel free to reach out to us.