The Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal combined trek is a comprehensive 7 day moderate itinerary that expertly merges two iconic Annapurna experiences: the legendary sunrise panorama from Poon Hill (3,210m) and the intimate, close-up views of the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) massif from the Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m). This unique route offers greater cultural immersion than the standard trails, passing through traditional villages like Ulleri, Ghorepani, and the major Gurung settlement of Ghandruk, before ascending through serene rhododendron forests and alpine pastures to the high ridges of Mardi Himal. Perfect for photographers and first-time trekkers seeking a diverse Himalayan adventure without extreme altitude, it delivers both sweeping mountain vistas and nose-to-nose peak encounters, with optimal conditions during the vibrant spring bloom or the clear autumn skies.
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- Duration7 Days
- Price from$730/ person
- Difficulty LevelModerate
- Max Altitude(45,00 M) 14,764 Ft
There are very few treks in Nepal that remain perennially favorite among all kinds of travelers. You have likely heard of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, a long-renowned classic in the Annapurna region and still the best short trek in the country. Complementing Poon Hill is the beautiful Mardi Himal trek, which has surged in popularity for those seeking a completely different Himalayan experience in a short time frame. While we have abundant information and videos about Poon Hill on our YouTube channel, this combined journey offers something truly special.
If you are new to trekking in Nepal, it's important to understand that while many Annapurna routes may sound similar, each offers distinct vistas. The first leg of this combined Ghorepani Mardi Himal trek takes you to Ghorepani Poon Hill, the premier lower-elevation viewpoint. The sunrise panorama from Poon Hill (3,210m) is famously beautiful and sweeping. This route also enriches the journey by passing through more traditional villages—like Ulleri, Ghorepani itself, and the expansive Gurung settlement of Ghandruk—than the standard Mardi Himal trail.
While Mardi Himal is a popular short trek and one of Rugged Trails Nepal's best-sellers in the Annapurna region, its appeal is different. It may not offer the same 360-degree panoramic range as Poon Hill, but it brings you astonishingly close—nose-to-nose—with peaks like Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The trek's unique vegetation and landscapes, from serene forests to alpine grasslands above the clouds, provide a beautiful contrast to the Ghorepani trail. An added highlight is the chance to see yaks grazing in these high pastures, a rare sight on such an accessible trek.
Spring Season on the Ghorepani Mardi Himal Trek
For photographers, spring is the ideal season. The trail comes alive with vibrant rhododendron blooms set against the majestic mountain backdrop. Rugged Trails Nepal can provide guides with specific photography knowledge upon advance request, ensuring you capture the magic. Remember, you don't need professional gear to enjoy this trek; our team will help you experience it in a unique and memorable way.
Is the Ghorepani Mardi Himal Trek Difficult?
We classify this as a moderate trek, suitable even for first-time trekkers without prior high-altitude experience. The itinerary is carefully designed for gradual acclimatization; you will spend time at Poon Hill (3,210m) before ascending higher, allowing your body to adjust safely. While extreme gear is not necessary, a reliable pair of hiking boots and appropriate warm clothing are essential. If this is your first trek, trust in your own capability and leave the logistics to us—our team is dedicated to taking care of every detail, every step of the way.
What makes this tour very interesting
- Panoramic Mountain viewpoint Poon Hill
- Rhododendron Forest, rainforest.
- Reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp.
- Nose to Nose view of Mt Fishtail.
- Local Gurung village, Ghandruk.
Trip Gallery
Ghorepani Mardi Himal Trek Video
Itinerary
The 2 beautiful short treks combined the trek itinerary from Pokhara. Short Ghorepani Poon HIll and Mardi Himal Trek in 7 days with Rugged Trails Nepal. This itinerary is possible to arrange from Kathmandu to Kathmandu after taking 25 minutes flights to Pokhara.
- Day: 1
Pokhara drive to Ulleri and Trek to Ghorepani
Our guide and other members will be at your hotel by 8:30 in the morning with the Jeep. 2-3 hrs drive from Pokhara to Ulleri village with the scenic view of Pokhara valley, rivers, and mountain villages. After reaching Ulleri, we will start our proper trek to Ghorepani. Lunch will be on the way somewhere, which will be decided by the guide. We will see Mt Annapurna south, Heuchuli and Mt. fishtail peak at some point but the trail is almost inside the rhododendron forest and rivers. From Ghorepani, we will be able to see Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna ranges and so on other peaks.
The sunset view is possible on the same day from Poonhill, 45 to 1 hr walk from Ghorepani. However, we will be visiting Poonhill next morning for Sunrise but if you are interested Our guide will escort you for sunset. - Day: 2
Poon Hill (3,210 M) - Ghorepani Trek to Tadapani.
Morning sunrise and mountain view from Poonhill (45 to 1 hrs walk). Poonhill is the best viewpoint in the Annapurna region for panoramic mountain views. Enjoy the sunrise and beautiful after Poonhill hike back to Ghorepani. We will have breakfast at the lodge and start walking towards Tadapani. Deurali is another beautiful place to see the mountains and the landscapes which is 1 and a half walk from Ghorepani. After Deurali the trails is almost downhill and flat somewhere till our lunch spot Banthati. Passing through Rhododendron forest, small waterfalls, rivers towards Tadapani. The last push is quite uphill to Tadpani, we can see the beautiful Mountain view and sunset from here.
In the Morning wear warm clothes and carry water with you. - Day: 3
Tadapani Trek to Landruk
Enjoy the morning breakfast with the glorious sunrise, and morning mountain views from your teahouse. It's a different kind of experince having a local breakfast seeing the snowy peaks after breakfast starts our hike towards Landruk village. We will pass through Ghandruk village, one of the biggest Gurung in this area. The trail is almost downhill and the last gently push to Landruk village.
- Day: 4
Landruk Trek to Forest Camp (Rest Camp)
As usual, we will start our day after breakfast at the tea house. Today the trail is quite difficult because we will be walking almost inside the Rhododendron forest. We will not see views and a peaceful walk towards to Forest Camp. As its name we will be in the middle of the forest and we will not see any mountain views from here.
Depends on your walking time we will try to push 30 min more from Forest Camp to Rest camp if time permits. Rest Camp is near to Forest camp and from here we can see Mt. Fishtail and the sunrise is beautiful from here. - Day: 5
Forest Camp (Rest Camp) Trek to High Camp
We will be passing through the forest up to Low Camp and from low camp, we can see Mt. Fishtail full image. 45 Min walk from Low Camp to Badal danda and after that, the vegetation is completely different. On a clear day, we can see beautiful views of Annapurna South, Heuchuli, Mt. Fishtail. We will have lunch at Badal Danda and trek to High Camp. The evening view is beautiful from High Camp.
Next morning we will start walking 3-4 in the morning to reach a Viewpoint for sunrise. Bedtime quite early and pack your small daypack bag for the morning with water. - Day: 6
Mardi Himal Viewpoint - Base Camp 4500 M (14,764 ft)Trek to Badal Danda
Your breakfast will be packed and the guide will give you in the morning. Don't forget to put headlight with you and we will be walking in the dark. Nearly 2 hrs walk from High Camp to Mardi Himal viewpoint, enjoy the breathtaking view from the upper viewpoint. After enjoying the morning views we will hike back to High Camp. Lunch at High Camp and trek to Badal Danda which is short 1 hr.
Badal danda is another great spot for sunset and sunrise with spectacular mountain views. - Day: 7
Badal Danda Trek to Siding and Drive to Pokhara.
Last breakfast in the mountain, if you like to see the sunrise wake up early morning and get on the right spot. Some people like to meditate and yoga practice in the mountains. The trail will meet to Low camp where we came before and after low camp descending all the way to Siding village. We will have lunch at the siding and then drive to Pokhara.
What's Included
- All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- Accommodation during the trek.
- Local guide and porter to carry bags.
- Private transportation from Pokhara -Trek- Pokhara.
- All Trek permits and government taxes.
- Duffle bags, hiking poles.
- Guide porter salary, allowance, and insurance.
- Farewell dinner.
- Ghorepani Mardi Himal Trekking Map.
- First Aid Kit.
What’s Excluded
- Personal expenses such as drinks, tipping, etc.
- Travel insurance.
- Hotel in Pokhara
- Camera, Mobile Battery charge, showers during the trek.
Similar to Your Taste
Reviews
Amazing 5 Star Experience
- Daniel, United StatesRugged Trails delivered an absolutely phenomenal experience on our three-day Mardi Himal trek in the Annapurna range. The entire trip ran flawlessly from the first step out of Pokhara to the final descent. Our porter worked like a machine—steady, reliable, and always two steps ahead of what we needed—while our guide, Shrawan Kumar, was perfect in every way. Patient, knowledgeable, and calm no matter how steep or how long the climb became, he set the pace, kept the group motivated, and explained local culture, landscape, and trail details with the kind of depth you only get from someone who truly knows the mountains.
The trek itself was life-changing: stunning ridgelines, surreal views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna, and the kind of quiet that resets your entire brain. We can’t wait to come back and do it again—there’s no question who we’ll book with. If you want the best possible Annapurna or Mardi Himal experience, ask specifically for Shrawan Kumar. He made an already incredible journey unforgettable.
Poon Hill onto Mardi Himal
- Nik Owen, United KingdomAwesome hike taking in the mountain views and the sights and sounds of the jungle. It took us 7 days including the jeep transfer in and out of the mountains on the 1st and last day.. we were a small group and the going was good but never rushed, plenty of opportunity for pit stops. Rugged Trails made the trip as simple as can be, from collection and drop off @ the hotel, to arranging all the lodgings, meals, etc. Our guide was knowledgeable, helpful, & friendly, assisted by the awesome, often overlooked porter. I wouldn't hesitate to use Rugged Trails for future trips
Beautiful weather and great choice
- Agostina Maria, BelgiumI had a very nice trip! Kel and Sanjay (did I spell that right? 😅) have taken excellent care of us. Many thanks and good luck with your future endeavors!
