If you’re looking for a trek that’s easy to moderate in difficulty and packed with unforgettable views, the Mardi Himal Trek via Poon Hill is just what you need. Nestled in Nepal’s breathtaking Annapurna region, this route offers two incredible vantage points — Poon Hill and Mardi Base Camp — where you’ll soak in awe-inspiring views of the majestic, snow-capped peaks.
This trek is a fantastic alternative to the often-crowded Annapurna Base Camp trail. In just a short time, you’ll experience stunning Himalayan landscapes without the bustle, making it perfect for those craving serenity and raw natural beauty.
Get ready to be amazed by panoramic vistas of some of the world’s highest and most iconic mountains, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (the “Fishtail”), and Himchuli. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages where the warmth of the locals and the beauty of the traditional lifestyle will capture your heart.
This journey is a unique blend of two iconic treks: first, you’ll complete the classic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, renowned for its golden sunrise views, and then venture onto the lesser-known trails of Mardi Himal — a hidden gem offering a quieter, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned hiker seeking a peaceful yet spectacular route, the Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek promises an experience you’ll never forget.
12 days / 11 nights Poonhill Mardi Himal trip
Annapurna Region: A Trekker’s Himalayan Dream
Highlights
- Explore Pokhara’s top attractions, including the World Peace Pagoda, Devi’s Fall, Phewa Lake, and the International Mountaineering Museum.
- Discover the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region, featuring vibrant rhododendron forests, diverse wildlife, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages.
- Hike the scenic Poon Hill to Mardi Himal route, enjoying breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Fishtail (Machhapuchhre), with cozy overnight stays in teahouses.
- Witness unforgettable sunrises over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from the famous Poon Hill viewpoint.
- Experience warm local hospitality that refreshes your spirit after a long day’s trek.
- Trek to the base of Mardi Himal for mesmerizing views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
- Enjoy panoramic sights of Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna II, III, IV, and South, Mount Hiunchuli, Mount Machhapuchhare, and more.
- Visit the village of Siding to experience the unique culture, traditions, and daily life of the local people.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. Once you're settled at the hotel, we will schedule a trip briefing at the hotel lobby or restaurant.
After a relaxed breakfast, you will take a tourist bus to Pokhara, a journey of about 7 to 8 hours. Pokhara serves as the starting point for the Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek. Along the way, you'll pass scenic landscapes, lush hills, and the flowing Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers.
For quicker travel, we can also arrange a direct flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara for an additional fee. The flight takes just 25 minutes, giving you more time to explore the beautiful Pokhara Valley, home to lakes such as Fewa, Begnas, Rupa, Dipang, Maidi, Khaste, Gunde, and Nyureni. From the valley, you'll enjoy stunning views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal.
The journey from Pokhara to Birethanti takes about 1.5 hours, following the Modi Khola River. Your Mardi Himal Trek via Poon Hill officially begins at Birethanti. Along the way, you'll pass local villages, teahouses, lush green hills, rivers, and friendly locals. After reaching the charming village of Hile, you will continue to Tikhedhunga. From there, the trail climbs steeply up a stone staircase after crossing a suspension bridge, leading you to the large Magar village of Ulleri, where you’ll be treated to views of Hiunchuli and Mount Annapurna South.
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your trek from Ulleri. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, following the Bhurungdi Khola to reach Nangge Thanti. Much of the day will be spent trekking through dense jungle, making for an exciting adventure. If you trek in spring, you'll enjoy vibrant rhododendron blooms, sightings of wildlife, and stunning views of snow-capped mountains. After a short final ascent through the forest, you’ll arrive at Ghorepani, where you can relax and take in panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna.
From Ghorepani, a short one-hour hike leads to Poon Hill (3,210m), the best viewpoint on the trail and a dream for photographers. Here, you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas, with panoramic views of Annapurna, Bahari Shikhar, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and more.
After capturing the breathtaking scenery, return to Ghorepani for breakfast before continuing the Mardi Himal Trek towards Tadapani. The trail connects with the Annapurna Circuit and winds through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests, passing Deurali and descending through more rhododendron woods to reach Banthanti. From there, the path crosses a cane field, ascends along the Bhurungdi Khola, and climbs steeply for about 20 minutes before arriving at Tadapani, a charming village offering stunning views of the Annapurna range.
The trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk is a gentle walk through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests, often lined with vibrant wildflowers. Continuing via Baisi Kharka, you’ll reach Ghandruk, where you can enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Machapuchare, Annapurna III, and Hiunchuli. Ghandruk also offers cultural attractions, including a museum and a Buddhist monastery.
The village is known for its unique architecture, featuring stone walls and slate-tiled roofs. From Ghandruk, the trail leads through the small village of Phedi, crosses the Modi River, and continues to the settlement of Landruk.
The trail from Landruk to Forest Camp is a steep climb through pine and juniper forests, offering increasing views of the high peaks as you ascend. Forest Camp is a quiet, remote area with only a few basic lodges.
From there, the trek continues to Low Camp through moss- and lichen-covered woodlands, dominated by rhododendron bushes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri peaks. Like Forest Camp, Low Camp has limited, simple lodges, surrounded by stunning Himalayan vistas.
From Low Camp, the trek continues through a rhododendron forest to Badal Danda, a climb that takes about an hour. Though the trail is challenging, it rewards you with stunning views of Mardi Himal, the Annapurna Range, and Machhapuchhre. As you ascend, the ridge narrows, offering sweeping views of the valleys below.
To the left lies the Modi Khola River Valley, lined with villages leading toward the Annapurna Sanctuary. To the right, you’ll see the Mardi Khola and Seti River Valleys, and on clear days, even the Pokhara Valley. Continuing along the ridgeline, you’ll reach High Camp. If you’re lucky, you might spot the Daphne, Nepal’s national bird, along the way.
Today begins early to catch the sunrise over the mountains—one of the most memorable and challenging parts of your Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek. The trail is tougher than expected, with steep and uneven ascents. Reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters takes about five hours, offering a rewarding sense of achievement as you cross lush high-mountain landscapes.
At the base camp, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna III (7,555m), and Gangapurna (7,455m). After soaking in these magnificent sights, you’ll descend to Badal Danda, where you can experience the magical sensation of clouds drifting around you.
After creating unforgettable memories at Badal Danda—enjoying the stunning Himalayan views and exploring the unique local flora and fauna—you'll begin your descent to Siding Village. Instead of returning to Forest Camp, the Mardi Himal Trek via Poon Hill takes an alternative route to this charming village. After lunch in Siding, you’ll continue to Pokhara by shared jeep. Upon arrival, you'll have free time to relax, go boating, or explore the vibrant lakeside area.
After breakfast, you’ll take a deluxe tourist bus along the Prithvi Highway back to Kathmandu. The 205-kilometer journey takes about 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic, passing through diverse landscapes and bustling towns like Damauli, Dumre, and Mugling. In the evening, you’ll celebrate the successful completion of your Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek with a traditional Nepali dinner and live ethnic music. It's also a great time to buy souvenirs or capture final memories with photos.
We will arrange your airport transfer approximately three hours before your departure. If you have extra time, we can organize additional side trips for you, or you are free to explore on your own.
1 Pax - @950; 2 Pax - @775 per person; 3 Pax - $750 per person; 4 Pax - $730 per person; 5 Pax - $720 per person; 6-10 Pax - $700 per person
Cost Includes
- Pickup from Kathmandu International Airport on your arrival date and time.
- 2 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu (before and after the trek) on a bed and breakfast (BB) plan.
- 2 nights' accommodation in Pokhara (before and after the trek) on a BB plan.
- Tourist bus ticket from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
- Taxi transfer from Pokhara to Birethanti (trek starting point).
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- 8 nights' accommodation in teahouses during the trek.
- Required permits for the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek.
- Experienced, English-speaking guide, including his food, lodging, transportation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
- Shared Jeep transportation from Siding village (trek endpoint) to Pokhara.
- Government VAT and official fees.
- Purified drinking water (Ef-Chlor water purification tablets).
- Certificate of achievement (upon request).
- Farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant in Thamel before departure.
- Free luggage storage at Green Lotus Trekking during the trek.
- Airport transfer service for final departure.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare, Nepal visa fees, and travel insurance.
- Lunch, dinner, and any extra night accommodation in Kathmandu beyond the itinerary.
- Porter service (available at USD 220 per porter, each carrying up to 25 kg).
- Personal expenses during the trek (hot showers, drinks, extra meals, Wi-Fi, battery charging, upgraded accommodations, etc.).
- Tips for staff (highly appreciated and expected).
FAQs
At Green Lotus Trekking, we have extensive experience guiding solo female travelers through the Himalayas. When you join our Mardi Himal Poon Hill Trek, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. We guarantee a secure, memorable adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
We assign one porter for every two trekkers, depending on group size. Each porter can carry 12 to 15 kg of baggage per person. You will need to carry a daypack for personal essentials such as your wallet, camera, water bottle, snacks, headlamp, and electronics. Please pack only what is necessary.
Clean, boiled, and filtered drinking water is readily available at teahouses along the trek for a small fee. We highly recommend bringing a reusable water bottle.
While altitude sickness (AMS) can’t be completely prevented, you can significantly reduce the risk by following these tips:
- Drink at least 4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine, as they contribute to dehydration and headaches.
- Allow enough time for proper acclimatization.
- Consider taking Diamox, an over-the-counter medication, to help prevent and ease symptoms of AMS.
You can store your unnecessary belongings for free at your hotel in Kathmandu or at our office before starting the trek.
Yes, most tea houses along the route offer electricity and Wi-Fi. You can charge your phone and camera, but using Wi-Fi typically requires an additional fee.
Yes, Green Lotus Trekking can customize the itinerary based on your interests, schedule, and budget. While the current itinerary is designed from years of trekking experience, options like flights or road travel at the start or end of the trek can also be arranged, depending on availability.
Yes, beginners with reasonable physical and mental fitness can complete this trek. You’ll be supported by a professional, experienced guide, along with porters and a cook, ensuring you have the assistance you need throughout the journey.
Yes, you will need the following permits to complete the trek:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Credit and debit cards are only accepted in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Once you enter the trekking region, cards are not accepted. Make sure to carry enough cash for the trek.
Your adventure begins with a tourist bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, a 1 hour and 15-minute drive brings you to Birethanti, the starting point of the trek. The journey starts through lush terraced fields of paddy and mustard, passing the Magar and Gurung villages of Hile and Tikhedhunga before reaching Ulleri.
The next day, you trek through beautiful rhododendron forests and the charming village of Banthanti to reach Ghorepani. Early the following morning, you’ll hike up to Poon Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over Machhapuchhre and the surrounding Himalayas, then return to Ghorepani for breakfast.
After breakfast, the trek continues through Tadapani, Ghandruk, and Landruk, where you begin the Mardi Himal Trek. From Landruk, you ascend through Forest Camp and dense rhododendron, pine, and oak forests to reach Low Camp. After an overnight stay, you trek to High Camp the next morning.
On the following day, you hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp without heavy backpacks to fully enjoy the views. Afterward, you descend through Badal Danda to Siding, from where a shared vehicle takes you back to Pokhara. Here, you can relax and explore Pokhara’s highlights, including a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake.
Finally, your 12-day Mardi Himal and Poon Hill Trek concludes with a tourist bus ride back to Kathmandu.
At Green Lotus Trekking Pvt. Ltd, we are excited to offer this carefully designed itinerary to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Bookings are now open for 2025 and 2026! We can also customize this trek to suit your time, budget, and fitness level.
If you have any questions about the Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Trek Package Cost, feel free to contact us anytime.
Benefits of Booking the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek with Us
- Free international airport pick-up and drop-off services
- Free Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek map
- Medical kit available for emergencies
- Oximeter provided to monitor oxygen levels at high altitude
- Free luggage storage at the Green Lotus Trekking office during the trek
- Sleeping bags available on request
What to Expect on the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek?
Throughout the trek, you’ll enjoy continuous views of snow-capped mountains while passing through charming hill villages inhabited by the Poon, Magar, and Gurung communities, where Buddhism, Hinduism, and ancient Bon traditions blend.
Near Mardi Himal, accommodation is in simple lodges with shared bathrooms and showers. Despite the basic facilities, you can enjoy hearty meals in clean, warm dining areas. The trails lead through lush rhododendron and pine forests, high meadows, quiet villages, and serene waterfalls.
From the Mardi Himal Viewpoint, you’ll witness breathtaking views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Himchuli. If weather permits, a visit to Mardi Base Camp offers even more stunning alpine scenery.
Both Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Base Camp serve as excellent viewpoints to capture the magnificent Annapurna mountain range, including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna Massif, Hiuchuli, Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu.
Is the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek Right for You?
This trek is ideal if you are looking for:
- A short, scenic route slightly off the beaten path
- Close-up views of the Himalayas through beautiful forests and traditional villages
- Opportunities to experience diverse ethnic cultures, including Gurung, Magar, Brahmin, Chhetri, and Dalit communities
- A moderately challenging trail suitable for people of all ages, thanks to well-maintained paths
If you enjoy interacting with locals and learning about different lifestyles and traditions, this trek offers a rich cultural experience.
Participants should be in good physical and mental health, capable of walking 5–6 hours daily on varied terrain while carrying a backpack.
Preparing for the Mardi Himal Trek via Poon Hill
While the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is relatively easier, the Mardi Himal section requires more preparation and stamina. Physical fitness, motivation, and basic trekking experience are essential.
Before your trip:
- Practice walking 5–6 hours daily on both flat and hilly terrain
- Build stamina with aerobic exercises like running, swimming, or cycling
- Incorporate yoga to improve breathing and flexibility
- Stay well-hydrated to prepare your body for the altitude
With proper preparation, you’ll fully enjoy one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking experiences.
Useful Information for Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek
Best Time for the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek
Spring (March, April, May)
Spring is the ideal season for the Mardi Himal Poon Hill Trek. During these months, rhododendrons and other plants bloom, transforming the landscape into a vibrant, green paradise. Clear skies during the pre-monsoon period provide excellent mountain views.
Autumn (September, October, November)
Autumn is another prime season for trekking. Following the monsoon rains, the air is crisp and clear, offering superb visibility of the Annapurna region’s scenic beauty. These months also mark one of the busiest trekking periods in Nepal.
Meals on the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek
- Breakfast
Breakfast is essential for building stamina for the day’s trek. Typical options include bread, chapati, eggs, porridge, soup, and pancakes.
- Lunch
Lunch, the main meal of the day, often features Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), a favorite among trekkers for its nutrition and energy boost. Other options like noodles, pasta, pizza, hamburgers, dumplings, and desserts are available at most teahouses.
- Dinner
Dinner menus are similar to lunch offerings. Besides meals, teahouses provide a variety of hot and cold beverages.
Accommodation on the Trek
Accommodation ranges from comfortable lodges in populated areas to basic teahouses in remote regions. Most rooms have twin beds, with some offering attached bathrooms, although shared bathrooms are common. It is customary to have dinner at the teahouse where you stay overnight, helping keep lodging costs lower.
Trek Difficulty
The Mardi Himal Trek via Poon Hill is moderately challenging but easier than treks like Everest Base Camp or Manaslu. Some uphill sections can be tough for beginners, but regular rest stops make the trek manageable. No technical equipment is needed. The toughest part is the steep climb from High Camp to Base Camp. Trails can be slippery during rain, so caution is necessary.
Travel Insurance
Although the risk of altitude sickness is low, accidents, illnesses, or sudden weather changes can occur. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation (including helicopter rescue), and high-altitude trekking is mandatory. We can recommend reliable insurers but do not provide insurance ourselves. Please submit proof of insurance after booking.
Altitude Sickness and Remedies
Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness, AMS) can occur above 3,000 meters, including at Mardi Base Camp (4,500 meters). Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If symptoms appear:
- Stop ascending and rest.
- Descend if symptoms persist.
- Stay hydrated.
- For severe pain, take Ibuprofen 500 mg or similar.
- Take acetazolamide (250 mg twice daily) to prevent or reduce symptoms.
Packing List for Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek
Essential gear includes:
- Sleeping bag
- High Mountain trekking boots
- Trekking poles
- Duffel bag
- Warm, breathable clothing
- Socks, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
Choose lightweight, comfortable gear. Also, carry necessary documents such as permits, insurance, and identification.
Safety Measures
Green Lotus Trekking prioritizes your safety:
- Experienced, trained guides and trek leaders
- Guides certified in wilderness first aid
- Regular health checks and motivational support during the trek
- Strict hygiene standards for food and lodging
- Full first-aid kits and necessary equipment
- Authority to cancel or continue the trek if health issues arise
- Immediate helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies (insurance required)
Booking Procedure
Green Lotus Trekking, a government-authorized and NMA/TAAN-recognized operator, has over ten years of experience. Booking is simple:
- Deposit 10% of the total trip cost.
- Submit passport copies, photos, travel insurance, and flight details within a week.
- Payment options include bank transfer, Western Union, or online through our website. Upon arrival, you can pay the balance by cash, credit card, or bank transfer. Full payment details will be shared after booking.
