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What if you could reach one of the best mountain ridges in less than 10 days of walking? The Mardi Himal Trek is a short Himalayan journey in the Annapurna Conservation Area that takes you from temperate oak zones to high viewpoints near the 4,042 m base camp. It is an easy-to-moderate trek that covers about 41-45 km and offers simple teahouse accommodation along the entire route.
The trek begins with a drive from Pokhara towards the trailhead before heading towards Ghorepani and Poon Hill. An early morning hike to Poon Hill offers views of the sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. From Ghorepani, the trail continues through rhododendron and oak forests towards the Mardi Himal area, passing Low Camp and High Camp before reaching the higher viewpoints. From around 4,042 meters, the Mardi Himal viewpoint provides impressive views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.
The trail also passes through villages where Gurung and Magar communities have lived for generations. Along the way, you can experience local food, traditional houses, and the quieter side of life in the Himalayan foothills. Teahouses provide basic accommodation and meals throughout the trek, making the route accessible for travelers who prefer a traditional trekking experience.
Combining the sunrise at Poon Hill with the mountain scenery of Mardi Himal makes this trek different from following either route alone. With forests, villages, viewpoints, and close views of the Annapurna mountains, the Ghorepani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek offers a varied experience for travelers looking for a shorter trek in Nepal.
If you wish to walk a short Himalayan journey in Nepal, then this trek is for you.
You’ll leave Kathmandu (1,400 m) and begin your journey on the Prithvi Highway. The road moves out of the valley and heads toward the Trishuli River. You’ll pass Naubise and Malekhu, a town known for fresh fish. Near Muglin, we join the Marshyangdi River that flows from the Manang region.
We may stop for lunch around Mugling or Kurintar. During this section, you can also see the Manakamana Cable Car. As we continue, the road keeps turning with the river. We’ll later follow the Seti Gandaki River before reaching Pokhara city (830 m). On a very clear day, you may see some peaks of the Annapurna range as well. Overnight in Pokhara.
Drive Time:
7–8 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
200 km (124.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
830 m (2,723 ft)
Accommodations:
Not included
Meals:
Not included
Place:
Pokhara
We acknowledge that many travelers want to enjoy their own style of time in Pokhara. If you prefer to arrange your own accommodation, you are completely free to do so. If you want us to manage it for you, you are always welcome. Just let us know.
If you want to save time, you can choose a 25-minute mountain flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara that provides a fast connection.
The second day is also a driving day. You’ll drive from Pokhara to Ulleri, a place known for its terraced fields, stone houses, and beautiful Annapurna range views. The road to Ulleri is rough, and you’ll travel in a 4WD jeep built for off-road travel. This route bypasses the long staircase (around 3,200 steps) that most trekkers climb from Tikhedhunga.
The drive takes you through small roadside settlements where you’ll see daily village life, such as farmers working on the fields and mules carrying goods. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more open, and the air feels cooler. After an hour, you’ll reach Ulleri (2,050 m). A Magar village known as the entry point for the Poon Hill route.
Once you arrive, you’ll settle into your lodge, enjoy local food, and prepare for the start of your trekking journey the next morning.
Drive Time:
3 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
60 km (46.6 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,960 m (6,430 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Lunch, Dinner (L.D)
Place:
Ulleri
You’ll begin your day today after having breakfast at around 8:00 AM and moving deeper into the Annapurna Conservation Area. The walk feels easier than yesterday because the steep staircase section is now over. You’ll walk inside thick rhododendron and oak forests, which are some of the largest in the entire Annapurna zone. If you’re trekking in spring, you’ll see these forests filled with red and pink blossoms.
After crossing the forest, you’ll reach Banthanti (2,100 m) and later Nangethanti (2,430 m), a common lunch stop where you can rest and enjoy a meal before the final climb. As you approach Ghorepani (2,860 m), the air turns cooler and fresher because you’re nearing the Annapurna mountain range. The village is a major junction for the trails leading towards Poon Hill and the deeper parts of the Annapurna region.
Trek Time:
4–5 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,860 m (9,383 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Ghorepani
Today you’ll wake early for a 40-minute pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m). The trail starts in darkness, and you walk with a headlamp. At the top, you’ll see the sun rise over the Himalayas, lighting up some tallest peaks like Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Tukuche (6,920 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), and Nilgiri South and North. After enjoying the views and taking photos, you’ll return to Ghorepani for breakfast at your teahouse.
From Ghorepani, the trek continues to Tadapani (2,630 m). There are a few uphill sections where you may see grey langur monkeys and many local bird species on the way. Tadapani is the junction where the Ghorepani Circuit and Mardi Himal routes separate. You’ll settle in for the evening, resting and enjoying the natural view.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
11 km (6.8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,630 m (8,629 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Tadapani
You start the day at Tadapani with a descent towards the Kimrong Khola river. After crossing the river on a suspension bridge, you’ll do an uphill climb to reach Ghurjung (2,010 m). From Ghurjung, the path passes above the Modi River, leading to a stone staircase ascent to Chhomrong (2,170 m). Chhomrong is a large Gurung village and a junction for trekkers heading to Annapurna Base Camp.
From here, you can see Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. You can stop in Chhormong for lunch as the village has several teahouses and shops. After Chhomrong, you’ll head towards Jhinu Danda (1,780 m). The village is known for its natural hot springs beside the Modi River. After settling into the teahouse, you can walk down to the rock pools to soak your tired muscles in the warm water.
Trek Time:
5–6 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
13 km (8 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,780 m (5,840 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Jhinu Danda
You start the day at Jhinu Danda by descending to the Modi Khola River. A long suspension bridge takes you across the river leading towards Landruk (1,565 m). Landruk is a traditional Gurung village perfect for a short break before the climb begins. From Landruk, the trek route diverges from the main Annapurna Base Camp route and connects with the Mardi Himal route.
The path can be slippery from here, so be cautious while placing your footsteps. You have to trek upward to reach the Forest Camp (2,500 m). It is a small, remote collection of teahouses located inside the forest. From Forest Camp, the trek continues to Rest Camp (2,800 m). Here, you won’t see forests, but you will get a clear view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna Range, and Hiunchuli.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
18 km (11.1 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
~2,630–2,800 m (8,629–9,187 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Rest Camp
Today you’ll start your day by having breakfast at Rest Camp and trekking uphill to reach Low Camp. As you approach Low Camp, the trees begin to thin, and you get your first unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
From Low Camp, the trail leaves the small forest section behind entirely and opens up onto an open grassy area. After 1.5 to 2 hrs of climb, you’ll reach Middle Camp (3,210 m), also known as Badal Danda, “Hill of Clouds”. True to its name, you’ll often find yourself trekking above the cloud line.
The final push to High Camp involves a steeper ascent. The trail becomes more rocky, with low alpine scrub and rhododendron bushes. You may spot wildlife like the Danphe pheasant in this treeless landscape. High Camp (3,600 m) is the last cluster of teahouses on this route where you’ll rest, hydrate, and acclimatize for today.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
7.5 km (4.7 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
3,600 m (11,811 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
High Camp
This day is the highlight of your Mardi Himal trek itinerary, as you begin before sunrise from High Camp and trek to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,042 m). You’ll move over rocky sections and loose scree, and in winter and monsoon seasons, patches of ice. When you reach the viewpoint, you’ll see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tent Peak, the Annapurna Sanctuary, and the pyramid of Machhapuchhre.
At the top, you’ll find a small tea shop where you can take a sip and enjoy the views. After spending some time, you’ll descend the same way back to High Camp, where a late breakfast waits before you continue downwards. The trail then follows the same path back through Badal Danda and drops into the forest. As you lose altitude, the air becomes warmer and easier to breathe.
You’ll reach Low Camp by late afternoon, where you’ll settle into a teahouse for the night. You can take your time to rest your legs after the biggest altitude gain of the entire Mardi Himal Trek.
Trek Time:
6–7 hrs/day
Trek Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
2,990 m (9,810 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Low Camp
Your final day on the Mardi Himal route begins with a downhill walk to Sidhing Village. This section follows a different path from your ascent by creating a full circuit. You’ll pass small settlements like Kalimati and Ghalel, which give you a close look at local village life away from the busy main routes.
From Sidhing (1,700 m), you’ll board a jeep for the unpaved track that leads towards the main highway. Once you reach Pokhara, the trekking section officially ends. You can take a short rest and continue the journey back to Kathmandu.
Trek Time:
3–4 hrs/day
Drive Time:
10–11 hrs/day
Drive Distance:
260 km (161.5 miles)
Trek Distance:
7 km (4.3 miles)
Sleep Elevation:
1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Accommodations:
Not included
Meals:
Breakfast, Farewell Dinner (B.D)
Place:
Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you can also choose the hotel you want to stay in by yourself. But if you need our help, feel free to reach out. We’ll arrange everything for you.
If you want to reach Kathmandu earlier or spend some time at Pokhara, you can choose a 25-minute flight that gives you a quick connection.
This trek stands out because it connects two different routes in one journey: the Mardi Himal Trail and the Ghorepani-Poon Hill Trail. It’s perfect if you want a balanced trek with culture, scenery, and adventure in one trip.
Hidden trails leading to Mardi Himal feel special because this route opened for trekking only in 2012, so it still keeps its natural character. You’ll walk through rhododendron, oak, and maple forests along the trek that were once used mainly by local shepherds. As you climb above 3,000 m near Badal Danda, you’ll get closer to Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
Mountain views on this trek feel unbelievable because you see Machhapuchhre and Mardi Peak from two completely different angles. From Poon Hill, you get a classic postcard view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges along with Machhapuchhre. Later, the Mardi Himal Viewpoint takes you closer, where Machhapuchhre and Mardi Peak stand directly in front of you.
The sunrise panorama from Poon Hill is one of the main reasons this trek is a must-do. You’ll start before dawn and watch the first light revealing the mountains like Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli in gold. This viewpoint offers you an all-around view of an entire range of over 7,000 m and one 8,000 m peak.
The rhododendron zones between Forest Camp and Low Camp are a highlight of the Mardi Himal Trek. This trail passes dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and maple, home to over 30 rhododendron species, including the national flower of Nepal, “Lali Guras“. The prime time to witness this rhododendron bloom is during the spring season (Mar to May), with peak blooming occurring from mid-Mar to late Apr.
The Gurung hospitality on the Mardi Himal and Ghorepani is a key reason to do this trek. In villages like Pittam Deurali and Landruk, you’re welcomed in traditional slate-roofed homes and teahouses, where you can enjoy local Gurung meals and friendly interactions with locals. Even at higher Forest and Low Camps, Gurung tea house owners provide comfortable beds, bathrooms, and heating despite basic facilities.
Adding Ghorepani and Poon Hill to the Mardi Himal itinerary gives you two very different mountain experiences in a single journey. Poon Hill is famous for the sunrise view over Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre. In contrast, the Mardi Himal viewpoints bring you nose-to-nose with these mountains.
The Ghorepani route also adds cultural and natural value to the journey. Villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghurjung are well-known Magar and Gurung settlements that offer cultural interaction, something that is less common on the Mardi Himal Trail. This zone also takes you through some of the largest rhododendron forests in the world.
Adding Ghorepani also offers practical benefits. The slow elevation gain helps with better acclimatization. It reduces the chance of altitude sickness compared to a direct ascent on the Mardi Himal-only route. The Ghorepani area has well-developed teahouses and better facilities as well. Overall, combining these two routes increases the value of your permit and makes efficient use of your trekking days.
Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and the combined trek are all good choices, but the best option depends on how much time you have and what kind of trekking experience you are looking for. Poon Hill is a popular choice for a shorter and easier trek, especially if you want to enjoy sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges without spending too many days on the trail. The route also takes you through traditional villages and beautiful rhododendron forests.
Mardi Himal is a good choice if you want a quieter trail and more time in the mountain scenery. The trek takes you closer to the mountains and offers impressive views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and the surrounding peaks. Compared with Poon Hill, Mardi Himal generally feels more remote and involves steeper sections, making it a better option for trekkers looking for a little more adventure.
If you have enough time and want to experience both routes, the combined Poon Hill and Mardi Himal trek can be a rewarding option. It gives you the chance to enjoy the sunrise from Poon Hill, explore the villages and forests along the trail, and continue toward the quieter landscapes of Mardi Himal. For a short and relatively easy experience, Poon Hill may be the better choice, while Mardi Himal suits those looking for a quieter and more adventurous trek. If you want to experience the highlights of both areas, the combined trek is worth considering.
The combined Mardi Himal and Ghorepani trek is considered to have an easy to moderate difficulty. Here are some difficulty factors that affect the trek:
| Factor | Ghorepani (Poon Hill) Section | Mardi Himal Section | Combined Trek |
| Max Altitude | 3,210 m (Poon Hill Viewpoint) | 4,042 m (Mardi Himal Viewpoint) | 4,042 m |
| Terrain | Well-established, often stone-paved trails, some steep sections (e.g., the 3,200 steps to Ulleri). | Quieter, less-maintained trails, steep ascents, and descents. | Diverse landscapes, from terraced fields to alpine shrubs |
| Daily Walking Hours | 5 to 7 hrs | 5 to 8 hrs | 5 to 8 hrs daily on average |
| Physical Demands | Moderate | Moderate to Challenging | Requires good health and stamina for daily walking and elevation changes. |
| Altitude Sickness Risk | Minimal due to the lower maximum elevation. | Mild risk above 3,000 m on the way to High Camp and Base Camp | Manageable with a well-paced itinerary and proper acclimatization. |
Yes, Mardi Himal is generally harder than Poon Hill. The Mardi Himal trek involves steeper sections, longer walking days, and trails that can become more challenging as you get closer to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The higher elevation also makes the trek more demanding, especially for those who are not used to walking in the mountains.
Poon Hill is usually considered an easier trek because the route is shorter and the highest point is lower. The trail passes through well-established paths and villages, with plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. Although there are still plenty of uphill and downhill sections, the overall difficulty is more manageable for beginners and travelers with limited trekking experience.
Mardi Himal is a better choice if you want a more challenging trek and closer views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains. Poon Hill is more suitable if you are looking for a shorter and easier Himalayan trekking experience with beautiful mountain views. Your fitness level, trekking experience, and the number of days you have available can also make a difference when choosing between the two.
Health, safety, and comfort on the Mardi Himal and Ghorepani Poon Hill trek require careful preparation, the right gear, and attentive health practices. The main health risks include altitude sickness, dehydration, and minor injuries. To prevent altitude sickness (AMS), it is crucial to ascend gradually and avoid alcohol and smoking. The itinerary naturally follows the principle of “Climb High, Sleep Low,” which helps the body adapt.
Recognize early symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue, and descend immediately if they worsen. Consult a doctor about carrying Acetazolamide (Diamox) for prevention or treatment, but it should never replace safe trekking practices. Food and water are equally important. Always purify water using boiling, filters, or purification tablets, and opt for nutritious, high-carbohydrate meals like Dal Bhat, while avoiding raw vegetables and meat at higher altitudes.
Comfort in the mountains comes from smart packing, appropriate clothing, and a clear idea of what’s available. A three-layer clothing system, a base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof shell keep you warm and dry. Essential gear includes sturdy trekking boots, trekking poles, a sleeping bag rated to -10°C, and a headlamp for early hikes or power outages. Teahouse accommodation is basic, so carrying a power bank, towel, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wet wipes is recommended to maintain hygiene and comfort throughout the trek.
The best times to trek the Mardi Himal are during the two primary peak seasons: Autumn and Spring. For these popular periods, you should book flights, guides, and accommodation in advance or simply contact us.
| Season | Months | Highlights | Considerations |
| Autumn (Peak) | September to November | Clear blue skies, stable weather, and local festivals. | The busiest season on the trails and in teahouses. |
| Spring (Peak) | March to May | Rhododendron forests in full bloom, mild temperatures, and clear mornings | It can be slightly hazy in the afternoons in May; trails are still busy. |
| Winter (Off-Season) | December to February | Snow-covered trails, pristine winter landscapes, and very clear skies. | Very cold temperatures and potential trail closures due to heavy snow require specialized cold-weather gear. |
| Monsoon (Off-Season) | June to August | Green scenery, very few trekkers, and less crowded teahouses. | Heavy rain, slippery and muddy trails, leeches, risk of landslides, and poor mountain visibility due to clouds. |
It is best to book your place at least 1 to 2 months in advance. This helps to prevent last-minute hassle in crowded areas like Ghorepani and High Camp.
The combined Mardi Himal and Ghorepani trek is ideal for beginners to experienced trekkers, as the reliable trails in the Ghorepani region and the lower maximum sleeping altitude help reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The route also works well for anyone with moderate fitness, since you only need the ability to walk for 5 to 8 hrs a day.
This trek is also perfect for nature lovers and photographers. You’ll witness sunrise views from Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Viewpoints. If you’re wondering how these two iconic trekking destinations compare in terms of scenery, difficulty, and overall experience, read our guide on Mardi Himal Trek vs Poon Hill Trek.
Families and trekkers of many age groups also find this route suitable, with many completing it successfully between the ages of 10 and 75. And because the itinerary fits within trek 9 days, it’s a great choice for travelers who want a full Himalayan experience but don’t have weeks to spare. Overall, this trek is well-suited for anyone looking for balanced adventure.
To prepare for the Mardi Himal and Ghorepani Trek, a combination of physical conditioning, logistical planning, and mental preparation is necessary.
You’ll need a visa to travel in Nepal, and the easiest option is the Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You can speed up the process by filling out the Online International Arrival Form within 15 days of your travel date, then bringing the printed barcode or saving it on your phone. The visa fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days.
Travel insurance for this trek must cover high-altitude trekking, as both Poon Hill at 3,210 m and the Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,042 m exceed the limits of most standard policies. You need a plan that clearly covers trekking up to at least 4,500 m and includes emergency helicopter evacuation. It is important in remote areas where a rescue flight can cost USD 5,000–10,000.
Hygiene and sanitation on this trek depend on safe water, clean hands, and smart food choices. Never drink tap or stream water without treatment, as local sources can carry bacteria and parasites. Purify all water by boiling, filtering, or using tablets. Hand hygiene is just as important. Use sanitizer before every meal and carry wet wipes for times when water is not available. Choose hot, freshly cooked meals like dal bhat, avoid raw vegetables, and limit meat at higher altitudes.
Learning a few Nepali phrases adds real value to this trek. Many people speak English, but using local words shows respect. Simple phrases like Namaste, Dhanyabad, and Hajur go a long way. “Hajur” is especially useful because it can mean yes, pardon, or you’re welcome. Using respectful terms like Didi for older women and Dai for older men also creates warm interactions. Saying Namaste with the proper gesture makes the greeting complete.
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