Overview
What is the Poon Hill and Mardi Himal trek?
A brisk, action-packed seven-day route that brings together two distinct Annapurna experiences: the culturally rich sunrise panorama from Poon Hill at 3,210 m and the rugged, close-up mountain wilderness of Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m.
The trek progresses from established stone trails and Gurung villages to quieter woodland paths and exposed alpine ridges, creating a varied journey for adventure seekers who want both classic views and a more remote high-mountain finish.
Trip quick facts
At a glance
- Duration
- 6N/7D
- Route
- Pokhara · Ulleri · Ghorepani · Poon Hill · Tadapani · Forest Camp · High Camp · Mardi Himal Base Camp · Siding
- Highest point
- Mardi Himal Base Camp · 4,500 m
- Best for
- Moderately experienced trekkers seeking sunrise views, village trails and a close-up alpine ridge
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Best season
- March–May · September–December
Trek preparation
Gear & logistics blueprint
A practical layering and equipment system for the route’s forest, ridge and high-altitude conditions.
| Category | Essentials |
|---|---|
| Upper body | Merino or synthetic base layers, active fleece mid-layer, Gore-Tex shell and a heavy down jacket for static periods. |
| Lower body | Lightweight trekking pants, thermal merino bottoms and waterproof shell pants. |
| Footwear | Broken-in waterproof trekking boots, three to four pairs of merino wool socks and camp shoes. |
| Accessories | 30–40 L daypack, trekking poles, category 3/4 sunglasses, double glove system and a warm beanie. |
From the road
Rhododendrons, ridges and the route
Itinerary
Day by day
Day 1Pokhara to Birethanti, trek to Ulleri+
Drive from Pokhara to Birethanti near Nayapul, then begin the trek through terraced farmland and small villages. Finish with the famous 3,000-plus stone steps to the Gurung village of Ulleri at 2,055 m.
Day 2Ulleri to Ghorepani+
Climb gradually through cool oak and rhododendron forest to Ghorepani at 2,860 m. The shorter trekking day leaves time to acclimatise, rest and prepare for the early start to Poon Hill.
Day 3Poon Hill sunrise, trek to Tadapani+
Hike before dawn to Poon Hill at 3,210 m for sunrise views across Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. Return for breakfast, then follow pine ridges and deep gorges to Tadapani at 2,630 m.
Day 4Tadapani to Forest Camp+
Leave the busier Annapurna trails and turn toward the Mardi Himal ridge. The quieter route descends toward the river before climbing into the thick, mossy woodland of Forest Camp at 2,600 m.
Day 5Forest Camp to High Camp+
Climb through Low Camp and Badal Danda as dense forest gives way to alpine scrub. Reach High Camp at 3,550 m for close views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South and panoramic sunset light from the ridge.
Day 6Mardi Himal Base Camp, descend to Low Camp+
Start early along the steep, narrow ridge to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m, with dramatic proximity to Machhapuchhre. After time in the alpine landscape, make the long, steady descent to Low Camp at 2,970 m.
Day 7Low Camp to Siding, drive to Pokhara+
Descend steeply from the ridge into traditional agricultural villages and finish the trek at Siding at 1,700 m. Continue by pre-arranged jeep to Pokhara at 822 m.
Inclusions
- Seven-day Pokhara-to-Pokhara route plan
- Altitude-aware staging through Poon Hill, High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp
- Pre-arranged jeep transfer from Siding to Pokhara
- Custom planning around your dates and group
Exclusions
- Accommodation, meals, permits and guide services are not specified in the supplied itinerary
- Travel to and from Pokhara is not specified
- Personal trekking clothing and equipment
- The final custom quote will confirm all commercial inclusions and exclusions
Things to carry
Planning questions
Before you enquire
Who is the Poon Hill & Mardi Himal Trek for?+
This itinerary is best suited to moderately experienced trekkers seeking sunrise views, village trails and a close-up alpine ridge. Mohan will ask about your experience, group and comfort level before recommending the final plan.
Can the itinerary be customised?+
Yes. Dates, group size, stays, transfers and selected activities can be adjusted where availability, permits, route conditions and safety allow.
How do I get the current price?+
Send an enquiry with your preferred month, group size and departure city. Mohan will confirm availability and prepare a custom quote with the current inclusions.
