Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek

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  • 12 days
  • |
  • Expert Level
Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek
  • DestinationTrekking in Annapurna
  • Activities Guided Trekking
  • Accommodation Guest House
  • Max. Elevation4500m.
  • Group Size15+
  • VehicleLocal Bus
  • MealsBLD

Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

  • Explore the vibrant city of Nepal, Kathmandu

  • Enjoy the scenic drive to Pokhara

  • Discover diverse landscapes in the Annapurna region

  • Witness the breathtaking sunrise view over the Himalayas from Poon Hill

  • Have a 360° view of the grand snow-capped Himalayas

  • Witness the lovely Annapurna Conservation Area

  • Experience the warmth of rural Nepali Tamang locals

  • Enjoy the authentic Nepali taste in rural Nepal

12 days Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek Overview

What would happen if you combine two spectacular trekking routes in one single trip? Yes, the result is unmatched. The Nepal Trekking Rangers is one of the leading trekking agencies of Nepal that is working relentlessly for sustainable trekking in Nepal. We felt that the best way to maintain the sustainability is by providing lots of options to the trekkers from across the globe. In 12 days including arrival and departure, trekkers get chance to walk on the rich trekking trail full of diverse vegetation and culture with a spectacular mountain views. The Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek is just not a trekking package but it is an idea to show the world that Nepal is the country of great natural surprises. 
In a single trekking trip, trekkers get to experience the most commercial trekking route of the Annapurna region and the most off the beaten route. The journey fills up with the contrasting hilly environment of Nepal from where one can accumulate marvelous memories of forests, villages, terraced farmlands, sunrise experiences, and spectacular mountain vistas. The Poon Hill section is the most commercial short trekking route of Nepal. The trail is often crowded with the trekkers from across the globe including Nepalese trekkers. However, the Mardi Himal Trek is for hard – core trekking lovers.

Poon Hill Trek Route Info

For years, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the cornerstone of Nepalese trekking industry. It is undoubtedly the most famous short trekking route of Nepal. The trail is suitable for all age group of trekkers. The chill mountain air and scenic mountain vistas including the green lush forests environment have made this trekking route an ideal place for families, senior citizens, and kids. The most iconic event on this trekking journey is the Poon Hill (3210 m) for sunrise experiences. It is so joyous to behold the mountains being lit up by the morning rays of sun. The hill is a perfect vantage point to observe mountains like Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Dhampus Peak, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna Himalayan range, Machhapuchhre etc.

Mardi Himal Trek Introduction

The Mardi Himal Trek route is comparatively new than the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. However, the popularity of the Mardi Trek is increasing tremendously. The major reason behind its popularity is the tranquil forests environment. Trekkers can feel as if they are walking in the wilderness trail from where they get to see the dwarfed look of the cascading hills below clouds. The trek truly makes you feel superior as you gaze the mountain vistas and surrounding landscape from the top of the ridge. It is the perfect alternative to the hustling and bustling of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

How to do Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek in a single trek?

There are different ways to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek in a single trek. Some prefer to do the Mardi Himal Trek at first and then move towards the Poon Hill area. However, this is not highly recommended. It is not the efficient way of the trek. The travel planners of the Nepal Trekking Rangers are so skilled that they have knitted the most scientific trekking itinerary. Our trek follows the classical itinerary of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek until the Tadapani Village. Trek to Mardi Himal starts from the Landruk Village which is opposite the famous Ghandruk Village. Finally, trekkers meet the original Mardi Himal Trek route in Rest Camp. The trip continues all the way to Upper View Point via High Camp before returning back to Sidding Village via Low Camp.

Best Season to Trek

Spring is the best time to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek. Months of the spring season in Nepal are March, April, and May. However, autumn is also equally rewarding season to do the trek. The trekking route of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is through green lush forests of rhododendron trees. Therefore, spring season is the time of the year where flowers bloom and entire forests look spectacular with the colors of more than 20 species of rhododendron. It is possible to do the trekking throughout the year as well but the trekking experiences may not be the same.

Trekking Difficulty

The grade of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek is easy. If you are physically fit and have an active lifestyle, then you can comfortably complete the trekking without any difficulties. However, the combination of these two trekking trails makes it the long detour. Therefore, the trekking activity in an average 6 to 7 hours every day for more than a week is never easy.

Accommodation and Meals

The condition of the meals and accommodation in the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route is very high. There are wide options of the lodging styles ranging from luxury lodges to basic tea houses. You can get food items from different parts of the world. Trekkers can order food from menu where you get items of different cuisines like Chinese, Indian, Continental, and Nepalese. However, the Mardi Himal Trek route is still new and there are basic tea houses. Limited food items are available from the menu. The most famous dishes to eat in this section are noodles, chowmeins, momo, and dal bhat. In comparison to the Poon hill trek route, Mardi Trek section has limited options of the meals and accommodation.

Permits

It is possible to do the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek with a single Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit. It costs NRs. 3000 to foreigners and NRs. 1500 to SAARC nationals. 
2026/2027 Best Short Annapurna Low Altitude Trek Deals 
Enjoy an epic trekking journey in Nepal’s two of the most popular short trekking route inside the famous Annapurna region. Get the best deals for 2026 / 2027 trekking season. We offer you the quintessential trekking package of the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek starting from 925 $ to 1100 $ per person. 

Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

A representative from Nepal Trekking Rangers will arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport to greet you and pick you up, and take you to your hotel. Breathe in a fresh new environment and freshen up. Get to a short meeting organized by Nepal Trekking Rangers where you'll see your guide and talk about the trek, trails, gear, and other things.

In the evening, stroll around Thamel and Indrachowk and view the local market with all its hues. Night meal at a good restaurant and ready for tomorrow's drive.

If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

Customize My Trip

Choose Your Package

US $520per person
Best Price GuaranteeTaxes Included

(Guide. Porter. Permits. Transportation. Accommodation)

Cost Includes

Transportation

  • International Airport Pick up and Drop off by Private Vehicle as per group size

  • Tourist Bus From Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu

  • Reserve or Private Vehicle to and from Starting and Ending point of the trek

Accommodation

  • 2 Nights Accommodation in Tourist Standard Boutique or Hotel in Kathmandu with Breakfast

  • 2 Night Accommodation in Tourist Standard Boutique or Hotel in Pokhara with Breakfast

  • 7 Nights Accommodation along the trek (Attached Bathroom in possible places or Guest Houses or Tea Houses)

Food and Drink

  • No Food and Drink

Permits and Expenses

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit

  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) Card If requires

  • All Local Government Taxes and Official expenses

Guide and Porter

  • Government Register Licensed holder Guide with speaking English Language

  • An Assistant guide each 7 Trekkers

  • A porter for each 2 clients (20 KGs limit weights for a Porter) and no PORTER for Solo Trekker

  • Covers their (guide and porter) wages, meals, hot drinks, accommodation, transportation, insurance and necessary trekking gears)

Souvenir or Complimentary

  • Nepal Trekking Rangers Company’s T-shirt/Cap/Buff

  • Trekking Route Pocket Map

Benefits

  • NTR’s Duffel Bag each client (return basis)

  • Sleeping Bag and Dawn Jacket (return basis) If you require

Cost Excludes

  • International Flights Fare

  • Nepal Entry Fees (15D-$30, 30D-$50 and 90D-$125)

Accommodation

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early return

  • Overstay than scheduled plan (early arrival or late departure)

Food and Drink

  • All meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara

  • All hot, cold, soft and hard drinks, all kind of Snacks and Chocolate bars during the trek

Tips or Gratitude

  • Guides and Porters as gratitude

Travel Insurance and Expenses

  • Travel Insurance covers emergency High Altitude Rescue/Evacuation (upto 6000m)

  • Personal Transportation of ground and Air both

  • Sanitary material such as wet wipe tissues/toilet paper

  • Hot Shower/hot or boiled water, Wifi, Battery Charge

  • Hot bag during the nights

  • Shopping/Souvenir for family and friends

  • All the extra things/expenses which has not included in the list

Dates & Prices

Your private Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek begins from and ends in , covering 12 days of adventure.

We organize exclusive trip for two or more, ensuring a personal and flexible experience.

Private Group Deals

1 PersonUS$ 745
2 - 6 PersonUS$ 620
7 - 14 PersonUS$ 570
15 - 30 PersonUS$ 520
Sold out dates
US $745US $745 per person (based on 1 people)
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Know Before You Go

What to Expect on Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek boasts an awesome combination of natural beauty, cultural exposure, and Himalayan landscape, making it one of Nepal's finest short treks. From the very beginning, the trekkers will have a timely trek in the Annapurna region with the perfect combination of the popular sites of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the off-the-beaten-path peace of the Mardi Himal Trek.

The most memorable moment of the trek is the Poon Hill sunrise (3,210 m). As the first rays of sun hit the snow-crowned ridges of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Nilgiri, the peaks seem to be drenched in golden light—an almost godlike moment. Along the way, you'll hike through a spectacular array of landscapes: thick rhododendron forests, cascading waterfalls, peaceful alpine ridges, and old villages. Spring makes it all even prettier, with the flowers exploding into bloom, but autumn offers clean mountain vistas and ideal trekking weather.

As you enter the Mardi Himal section, expect fewer trekkers, peaceful trails, and more breathtaking mountain views. The trek gradually climbs to High Camp (3,560 m), offering uninterrupted views of the entire Annapurna range, including Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and the sacred Machhapuchhre. From here, the pre-dawn hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) is both thrilling and spiritual; walking along a narrow ridge as the sun rises over the Himalayas is a memory you’ll carry forever.

The cultural immersion is a big plus. You'll be staying in actual Gurung and Magar villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, Landruk, and Siding, where you'll get good old-fashioned mountain hospitality, taste home-cooked Nepali food like dal bhat, and gain insights into local customs. Most nights you'll be sleeping in snug, family-run teahouses with simple but satisfactory facilities, warm meals, and camaraderie around the campfire.

This is a moderate-level difficulty trek and best suited for new to mid-level trekkers with a good level of physical fitness. Walking for every day is approximately 4 to 6 hours, with decent breaks in between and gradual gain in altitude. Though Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity are available in the lower villages, expect a lack of proper connectivity as you climb higher up, giving you the perfect opportunity to disconnect and connect with nature in the truest sense.

With all bases covered, from ACAP permits and TIMS cards to accommodations and transportation, by Nepal Trekking Rangers, you're free to just relax and take it all in. Whether you're chasing magic dawn from Poon Hill, hiking along great ridgelines to Mardi Himal Base Camp, or soaking up the tranquility of Himalayan villages, this trek is sure to be a well-rounded, genuine, and unforgettably enjoyable adventure in the heart of Nepal.

How to reach Mardi Himal from Poon Hill?

To reach Mardi Himal from Poon Hill, trek from Poon Hill to Tadapani and then to Landruk via Ghandruk. At Landruk, follow the trail of the Mardi Himal Trek and ascend through Forest Camp and Rest Camp to High Camp. Early morning trek from High Camp brings you to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Having seen the panorama, you descend through Low Camp to Siding and you drive back to Pokhara. The trek from Poon Hill to Mardi Himal Base Camp takes about 5 to 6 days and puts together finest scenic beauty, peaceful trails, and breathtaking Himalayan views.

Why Combine Poon Hill and Mardi Himal?

The combination of Poon Hill and Mardi Himal treks offers the uncommon blend of the most sought-after and the most peaceful trekking routes in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is the double temptation of life: Poon Hill, with its legendary sunrise views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal, with a peaceful off-path trek, ridge walks, and viewpoint excursions to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m).

Poon Hill offers cultural outlooks, landscapes, and glimpses of Magar and Gurung villages in an easy-going lower route. Mardi Himal offers remoteness and isolation as well as alpine severity. Both together form one of the finest short treks in Nepal, with a captivating mix of landscapes—rhododendron forest and fields under cultivation, and the tops of high ridges with Himalayan vistas.

For all who want a mix of everything from a trek, this mix will give maximum scenic return and well-balanced tests in the range of 10-12 days.

Best Season to Trek

The best season for a trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal is spring, from March to May. Spring is famous for lovely rhododendron flowers that blanket the woodlands with lovely pink and red hues, especially in the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. The weather is extremely gentle and lovely with lovely daytime temperatures being lovely for trekking. Spring's beautiful blue skies offer breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalayas, some of whose well-known peaks are Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Dhaulagiri. Spring is good for nature enthusiasts and photographers who prefer to observe the flower beauty of the landscape and distant mountain views.

Autumn, September to November, is peak season and perhaps the best time of year to trek in Nepal, including for the Mardi Himal Trek. After the previous summer monsoon, the weather is fresh and the air is pure with an open view of the Himalayan range. It is quiet weather, with nice day temperatures and refreshing cool nights. Autumn season trekkers enjoy good trail conditions, and it is time for new trekkers as well as experienced trekkers. The dry, bright weather of the season raises each moment of your hike—dawn on Poon Hill to the breathtaking alpine ridges of Mardi Himal Base Camp.

While monsoon months (June to August) receive rain showers, damp trails, and inadequate visibility, making it unpleasant and not safe to walk, winter (December to February) enjoys clear skies but cold temperatures, snow on the upper peaks, and no convenient teahouse amenities. Winter trekking is only appropriate for professional trekkers, as they are capable of withstanding the harsh climate. Therefore, for most of the travelers, spring and autumn are even the ideal periods to witness the natural and cultural splendor of the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek.

Trekking Difficulty

Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek is a leisure trek and ideal for beginners having minimal physical fitness levels and experience and experienced trekkers in search of a short Himalayan experience. The trek involves a mix of gentle slopes, rock steps, woodland trails, and steep ascents, especially climbing to Mardi Himal High Camp and Base Camp (4,500m). Even though it does not need any climbing expertise, decent stamina and mental flexibility are a must to appreciate the trek to the center.

Poon Hill, part of the trek is very simple with smooth trails, tea-houses at every rest station, and 4–6 hours of daily trekking. Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) is brief but very steep with dramatic all-round views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The more you walk in the Mardi Himal region, the more remote and undeveloped the trails are. The ascent from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,560m) and further to Mardi Himal Base Camp is steep and at a higher elevation, but with acclimatization, which is done slowly and can be endured by most trekkers.

The trek does contain a lot of elevation (up to 4,500m), and therefore, mild altitude sickness symptoms are not out of the question, but there is little possibility of this occurring as the trek is at such a relaxed pace. There's usually no problem with most tourists being just fine on the path with a well-planned itinerary, guide service, and proper hydration. On the whole, the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek difficulty is moderate—dynamically sufficient to be a genuine Himalayan experience but not so energetic that it cannot be accommodated by newcomers and experienced bandits.

Food and Accommodation on Trek

Accommodation during the Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek will be in community teahouses that provide simple but comfortable rooms in general, twin-sharing with common bathrooms at higher elevations. Villages at lower elevations, such as Ghorepani, Landruk, and Siding, have relatively better facilities, like hot showers and attached bathrooms.

Food is provided at the teahouses and ranges from choices. Dal bhat (lentils, vegetables, and rice), fresh and in abundance, is the healthiest and most available food. Pancakes, soups, noodles, Tibetan bread, momos, and hot drinks like ginger tea and coffee are foods as well. The higher you go on the Mardi Himal trek, the simpler the shelter and food become, but they are fresh and healthy. The food and accommodation in general are simple, hospitable, and warm—just the thing a Himalayan trekking tour will require.

Permits for Trek

You’ll need 2 key permits to trek in the Annapurna region: 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area is the protected area, so ACAP is mandatory. It costs you around Rs 3,000 for foreign nationals (about USD 25-30). For a SAARC country, it costs Rs 1,000. 

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS Card)

A TIMS card is used to monitor the safety of the trekkers and their emergency needs. It costs around NPR 1,000 (approx. USD 8–10) if trekking with a registered agency and NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 16–20) for independent trekkers. 

Both permits are available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or you can ask the Nepal Trekking Rangers for this paperwork.  

Packing List

Pack smart. When you hike in a high-altitude region such as Annapurna, you need to pack smart. The following is the list of gear you need:

Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and leggings

  • Fleece jacket or light insulated jacket

  • Waterproof and windproof shell jacket

  • Warm Down Jacket

  • Hiking pants

  • Thermal leggings or insulated pants for high altitude

  • T-shirts (3–4): Lightweight, quick-dry fabric

  • Warm hat or beanie

  • Sun hat or cap

  • Buff or neck gaiter

  • Gloves

  • Underwear

  • Socks

Footwear

  • Sturdy hiking boots

  • Camp shoes or sandals

  • Gaiters

Sleeping Gear

  • Four-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)

  • Sleeping bag liner 

  • Travel pillow 

Backpacks & Bags

  • Main backpack (50–65 L)

  • Daypack (20–30 L)

  • Rain cover

  • Dry bags or Ziploc bags

Trekking Gear

  • Trekking poles

  • Headlamp

  • Reusable water bottles

  • Water purification

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen 

  • Quick-dry towel

  • Notebook & pen

  • Personal Hygiene & Toiletries

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, and shampoo

  • Wet wipes/baby wipes

  • Toilet paper 

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Nail clippers, razor, and other small personal care items

  • A small, quick-dry face towel

First Aid & Medications

  • Personal medications (with prescription if needed)

  • Altitude sickness tablets (consult with doctor)

  • Paracetamol/ibuprofen

  • Antidiarrheal and digestive aids

  • Blister plasters and band-aids

  • Electrolyte packets/rehydration salts

  • Insect repellent

Electronics & Extras

  • Power bank/solar charger

  • Charging cables (type-C, micro-USB, etc.)

  • Plug adapter (Nepal uses Type C, D, and M sockets)

  • A Camera or a phone with enough storage

  • Extra memory cards and batteries

Documents & Money

  • Passport + photocopy

  • Travel insurance card/policy

  • Trekking permits (ACAP & TIMS)

  • Cash in NPR (ATMs not available on the trail)

  • Small notebook for contacts or journaling

Optional Extras

  • Energy bars or snacks

  • Lightweight reading book or Kindle

  • Playing cards

  • Earplugs (for noisy teahouse nights)

  • Duct tape/safety pins/repair kit

Traveller Review

Trip Advisor5.0 Rating out of 5 based on 1850 Reviews

  • His quite nature, and taking care of things when and where required.

    I spent over one month with Yuddha, his wife and team of assistants on treks and religious travel namely i) Annapurna , 5 days ii) Pokhara and Muktinath, 8 days and iii) Everest Base Camp and Three Passes, 19 days. I must say that my wife and I had wonderful time with Yuddha and his family. Yuddha is a true professional and goes out of way to make things happen. During my time there were several weather related events but Yuddha was able to find solutions for each adverse situation and allow us to continue our journey. He is flexible with timeline, providing facilities and help. My wife also stayed with his family while I was on trek. She thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality provided by his wife.
    Prakash B
    Prakash B 20th Oct, 2026

  • Great holiday on the roof of the world

    Yuddha the company owner has taken care of everything from domestic flights to car transfers, hotels etc. He has put together a very individual trip that has left nothing to be desired. Also the hike Anapourna Circuit was perfectly organized. I can only recommend this company to anyone who wants to travel to Nepal individually.
    Laura B
    Laura B 12th Aug, 2026

  • A Guide Who Truly Spreads Light

    Yuddha is the best guide I have ever met. He is sensitive, very experienced, and always cheerful. He answered my questions with openness, honesty, and kindness. He paid close attention to our group’s needs, and I felt completely safe under his guidance. He booked wonderful accommodations for us and handled the meals very professionally as well. I hope I’ll get the chance to hike with him again — I really miss our conversations. 😊
    Ghyzsofi
    Ghyzsofi 12th Aug, 2026

  • Highly recommend

    I had an amazing experience trekking in the Everest region with Nepal Trekking Rangers. What truly made this journey special was Yuddha. I first met him as a customer during the trek, and by the end of the trip, we had become friends.Yuddha was incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout the experience. Even after the tour ended, he continued to check in and offer extra care and help, which really meant a lot. His information, guidance, and genuine concern made the whole trip smooth and memorable.He is a truly nice guy—down to earth, mellow, and easy to be around. You can tell he genuinely cares about his clients and his work. I highly recommend Nepal Trekking Rangers and especially Yuddha to anyone planning a trek in Nepal. I sincerely hope his business continues to grow strong—he deserves it.
    Tia
    Tia 15th Oct, 2025