Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek

The Poon Hill-Mardi Himal Trek offers an incredible journey through the heart of the Annapurna Region in Nepal. Starting from the charming village of Ghorepani, trekkers ascend to the famous Poon Hill, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including stunning sunrise vistas over iconic mountain peaks.

/2 Photos

Good To Know

  • Duration 12 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 4500 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

The Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek guides you through Nepal’s Annapurna Region, beginning in Ghorepani. From there, trekkers ascend to Poon Hill, where they enjoy panoramic Himalayan views and breathtaking sunrise vistas. As the trail continues, it winds through rhododendron forests before arriving at Ghandruk, allowing you to experience the local culture. Along the way, cozy teahouse lodges provide a comfortable place to rest.

The journey continues to Mardi Himal, passing Forest Camp and High Camp before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp. This path features serene forests and dramatic landscapes with spectacular Annapurna Range views. The trek’s moderate difficulty suits many enthusiasts, promising an unforgettable adventure in Nepal’s stunning scenery.

The Poon Hill-Mardi Himal Trek offers an unforgettable adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna Region, with stunning views and rich culture. For more details and expert planning assistance, visit our website, Kalpa Holidays.

Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

  • Get the opportunity to see the world’s 7th highest mountain, Dhaulagiri I (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m) Machhapuchre (6,997m), Gangapurna Himal (7,454m), and the captivating Mardi Himal itself (5,587m).
  • Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Gurung and Magar ethnic communities.
  • Traverse diverse natural landscapes, including lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages. 
  • Encounter rare species of wildlife and avian wonders along the way. 

Best time for Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek 

The best time to trek the Ponnhill-Mardi Himal is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Annapurna Region, including the Poonhill-Mardi Himal. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant. During the day, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations. However, higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are usually clear, offering stunning views of the nearby mountains. These include Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season. The Poonhill-Mardi Himal trail is more crowded than other Annapurna Region treks.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek trail is more crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Poonhill-Mardi Himal. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Greetings and welcome to Nepal! This is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from the Kalpa Holidays will be there to meet you, as per your flight schedule, and they will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, a brief overview of your upcoming trip will be provided. If you wish to explore the city on foot, feel free to inquire with your guide, who will do their best to organize a suitable walking excursion based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 822 m
  • Meal Breakfast

Today we have two options one is by flight and another is by road. A flight from Kathmandu takes about 25 minutes, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and rivers. We’ll arrange everything for a smooth journey. If we prefer to drive, our guide will take us on an 8-hour trip via the Prithivi Highway, with stops for meals and breaks. This route offers scenic views of rivers, forests, fields, and villages.

Flying gives us more time to explore Pokhara, enjoy Phewa Lake, and stroll around Lakeside. Driving allows us to experience the evening in Lakeside, witness the Sandhya Aarati ceremony, and shop for trekking essentials. Our overnight stay will be in the Lakeside area.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1892 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll start our journey. We can take a jeep from Pokhara to Ulleri or hike from Hile to Ulleri. The drive to Hile is 2-3 hours, followed by a 3-4 hour uphill trek to Ulleri. We’ll enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, encountering locals and animals along the way. The final climb is a good warm-up.

Ulleri, at 2070 meters, offers views of Annapurna South. We’ll stay in a lodge and enjoy a log fire, and Nepali cuisine, and join in singing and dancing with other trekkers.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2874 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

As the sun rises, it unveils stunning views of Himchuli and Annapurna South (7,219 m). After breakfast, we’ll set off on our journey to Ghorepani. Along the way, we’ll catch glimpses of Mt. Machhapuchhre in the distance, trekking through oak and rhododendron forests with babbling streams flowing through the hills. We’ll take a break at Nange Thanti for lunch and some well-deserved rest.

Afterward, we’ll continue our ascent through the forested terrain towards Ghorepani. From there, we’ll be able to spot Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), the 7th highest mountain in the world. Ghorepani village, a Magar community, welcomes visitors with its numerous lodges, homestays, and friendly locals.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3210 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we embark on our journey to our day’s destination. Choose between a scenic jeep ride from Pokhara to Ulleri or, for a more immersive experience, a trek from Hile to Ulleri. The drive to Hile takes about 2-3 hours, followed by a 3-4 hour uphill trek to Ulleri. Leaving urban areas behind, we will enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, encountering locals, donkeys, mules, and horses along the way. The final ascent to Ulleri is a satisfying warm-up.

Ulleri, a bustling Magar village at 2070 meters, offers stunning views of Annapurna South. Explore its church and cozy lodges, where we’ll spend the night. Relax by the log burner, savor authentic Nepali cuisine, and join fellow trekkers for singing and dancing.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1430 m
  • Meal Brakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Tomorrow, we will start a trek from Tadapani to a new destination of Mardi Himal. The trail will pass through dense rhododendron woodlands, oak, and maple trees. Throughout our journey, the Annapurna Mountains will dominate the skyline. Eventually, we will reach Ghandruk, a significant village, for lunch. Continuing our descent, we will arrive at the Modi River, crossing it via a bridge. Following this, a gradual uphill hike for approximately an hour will lead us to the charming village of Landruk, where we plan to stay overnight at a guesthouse. In the morning, we will enjoy a unique experience, relishing a local breakfast while witnessing a glorious sunrise and mountain views.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

On this day of the Poonhill-Mardi Himal trek, we will embark on a serene journey from Landruk towards Forest Camp. The trail will wind through lush forests filled with vibrant red rhododendrons, Nepal’s national flower. As we hike through the tranquil Rhododendron forest, we’ll eventually reach Kokar, a clearing where the forest camp awaits. Here, nestled at 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) on a ridge, cozy tea houses offer basic accommodation and delicious local food. We’ll unwind amidst magnificent mountain views, setting the stage for an unforgettable night in the Himalayas.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3580 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, after breakfast, we will trek from Forest Camp to High Camp. Our journey takes us from Forest Camp to High Camp, and as we continue our trek, we will pass through lush rhododendron and oak forests. After a rest and having lunch at a low camp, we’ll ascend, breaking through the treeline for stunning views of Annapurna South and Himchuli. Crossing into the alpine zone at Badal Danda, a beautiful grassland and snow-capped peaks will greet us.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4500 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today we will continue our trek from Forest Camp to High Camp to Mardi Base Camp. We will have the option to pack breakfast for the journey or enjoy it back at High Camp. Along the ridge, we will enjoy panoramic vistas, including the stunning Mardi Himal viewpoint at 4200m with views of Annapurna South, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhre. The final stretch will take about 2 hours, with challenging trails and thin air, but the reward at the base camp will be unforgettable. We will capture the panoramic views before returning to High Camp for breakfast. Afterward, we will retrace our steps, passing yaks and enjoying the serene environment. Lunch will be at Badal Danda, where we will reflect on the day’s adventures amidst the Himalayan scenery, staying overnight to cherish these extraordinary moments.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1280 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After enjoying a hearty breakfast with this stunning backdrop, we’ll head back to Pokhara. The trek from Badal Danda to Sidhing will take us through dense forests and offer views of the majestic Mt. Machhapuchhre. The descent might be challenging, but the vistas will be worth it. After about five hours, we’ll arrive in Sidhing, where a comfortable jeep will be waiting to take us back to Pokhara’s Lakeside. It’ll be a peaceful end to our unforgettable day on the Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, you’ll commence your journey back to Kathmandu. Your return trip offers the same two options as your journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be transported to your hotel for an overnight stay.

With the remaining time, you can explore the exquisite Kathmandu Durbar Square or other culturally significant sites within the city, which boast a wealth of heritage. Your night will be spent in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our delightful Poonhill-Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours prior to your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your enriching cultural and natural journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Nayapool.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

Yes, hikers are required to obtain the following permits for trekking: 1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 2. TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System)

In Nepal, only the cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara are equipped for credit and debit card payments, while rural hiking areas do not accept cards. Therefore, it's essential to carry enough cash with you when entering these regions.

The Poonhill Mardi Himal presents a moderately demanding trek. Yet, with a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to walk for six to seven hours each day at a steady pace, completing this journey is achievable. It's characterized more by its sense of adventure than by its level of difficulty.

The Poonhill Mardi Himal Trek entails some potential dangers because of its high elevations, severe weather patterns, and the risk of landslides. Therefore, it's important to be cautious. Our trekking team will take measures to ensure your safety during the journey.

The optimal period to embark on the Classic Annapurna Circuit trek is typically during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather conditions and superb visibility, enhancing the trekking experience. Additionally, autumn coincides with festive celebrations in Nepal.

If you're reasonably fit, completing the Poonhill Mardi Himal Trek including Tilicho Lake is feasible. Prior trekking experience isn't necessary, but having a positive mindset and determination greatly help. If you have any preexisting heart, lung, or blood conditions, it's essential to seek medical advice before embarking on this trek.

Yes, having travel insurance is obligatory for undertaking the Poonhill Mardi Himal Trek including Tilicho Lake. Your insurance policy should include provisions for helicopter rescue up to the trek's highest point and should also cover treatment expenses, considering the trek's extreme altitude and isolated location.

Although you can't entirely avoid altitude sickness, you can reduce its chances by following certain measures. These include proper acclimatization, walking at a comfortable pace, staying well-hydrated, trekking to higher altitudes but sleeping at lower ones, and eating nutritious meals. Additional guidance on minimizing the risks of altitude sickness will be offered by our guides.

We recommend against consuming water from local sources such as taps, wells, and rivers in trekking regions due to potential contamination. Instead, you can buy bottled mineral water at hotels and stores along the way. However, for environmental reasons, we suggest using a refillable water bottle and filling it with boiled water, which is often accessible at hotels and teahouses.

If you're allergic to certain medications, it's advisable to seek advice from your doctor and ensure you have your own supply of medicines. Most medications can be obtained in Kathmandu at an affordable price.

Indeed, the company makes certain that vegetarian hikers are provided with sufficient nutritious and sanitary vegetarian meals. We carefully choose top-quality lodges and teahouses to ensure that our clients' dietary needs are met.

Certainly, it is possible to hire trekking gear in Nepal, and we can suggest suitable shops in Kathmandu for this service.

Typically, you can access Wi-Fi at most tea houses and lodges during your stay, usually for a nominal fee.