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 theGhorepani 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.
Ghorepani - Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
- Poon Hill Panorama: Legendary 360° sunrise views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.
- Mardi Ridge Walk: A spectacular "above the clouds" journey along a high-alpine scenic ridge.
- Fishtail Proximity: An intimate, "nose-to-nose" encounter with the iconic Mt. Machhapuchhre.
- Rhododendron Forests: Trekking through the world’s largest blooming forest canopy (vibrant in Spring).
- Cultural Landscapes: Scenic terraced fields and traditional stone-roofed Gurung and Magar villages.
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.
Short Outline Trek Plan
| Day | Trekking Route | Max Altitude | Walking Time | Distance |
| 01 | Pokhara to Ulleri (Drive) & Trek to Ghorepani | 2,874 m | 4 Hours | 10 km |
| 02 | Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Tadapani | 3,210 m | 5–6 Hours | 12 km |
| 03 | Tadapani to Landruk Village | 1,430 m | 5 Hours | 11 km |
| 04 | Landruk to Forest Camp (Rest Camp) | 2,500 m | 5 Hours | 8 km |
| 05 | Forest Camp to High Camp | 3,580 m | 5–6 Hours | 9 km |
| 06 | Viewpoint/Base Camp & Trek to Badal Danda | 4,500 m | 6 Hours | 13 km |
| 07 | Badal Danda to Siding & Drive to Pokhara | 3,250 m | 4 Hours | 6 km |
Can we skip the Ulleri stone stairs?
Yes! We now utilize 4WD jeeps to drive past the traditional starting point, taking you directly to Ulleri or as far as Banthanti. This allows you to skip the famous 3,000+ stone steps and save your energy for the higher ridges. Please note that during heavy monsoon rain, jeeps may only reach Tikhedhunga if river levels are high. However, a new motorable bridge is currently under construction, which will soon provide reliable year-round access regardless of the weather.
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.
Can this itinerary be customized to include Kathmandu transfers?
Yes, we can absolutely arrange this journey starting from Kathmandu! We have a dedicated, hassle-free version of this package—the Ghorepani Poon Hill & Mardi Himal Trek (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)—designed for travelers who want a seamless experience from arrival to departure. Whether you prefer the convenience of a 25-minute scenic flight or the adventure of a road trip via private jeep or tourist bus, we can fully customize the logistics to fit your schedule. If you have the time and want a completely smooth transition from the capital to the high ridges of the Annapurna region, this comprehensive package is the perfect choice to ensure every detail of your Nepal adventure is professionally managed.
What makes this tour very interesting
Trip Briefing & Meeting Your Guide
Even though the 7-Day Ghorepani Mardi Himal Trek officially begins in Pokhara, we provide comprehensive support starting from the moment you confirm your trip.
1. Guide Details & Communication
Once your trek is confirmed, we will send you all the essential trip details. Approximately 2 days before your trek begins, we will provide you with your specific guide’s name and contact information so you can connect via WhatsApp or phone.
2. The Pre-Trek Briefing in Pokhara
To ensure a smooth start, we require your Pokhara hotel details for pickup coordination. Your guide will meet you at your hotel the afternoon or evening before the trek for a formal briefing.
What to Expect: Your guide will provide a detailed trek map, distribute Rugged Trails duffle bags, and conduct a final gear check to ensure you have everything needed for the mountains.
3. Meeting Us in Kathmandu
Since we are based in both Kathmandu and Pokhara, we are happy to assist you in the capital as well. If you are staying in Kathmandu before heading to the Annapurna region, we can meet you in Thamel to provide an early briefing, assist with gear shopping, or answer any last-minute questions.
Rugged Trails Note: Whether you meet us in Kathmandu or Pokhara, our team is dedicated to making your transition into the Himalayas as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Life on the Trail: Food, Lodging, and Facilities
Trekking in the Annapurna region is as much about the local hospitality as it is about the mountain views. Here is what you can expect regarding food and facilities during your Ghorepani – Mardi Himal journey.
The Legendary "Dal Bhat Power"
In Nepal, trekking and Dal Bhat are inseparable. This nutritious meal of lentil soup, rice, and vegetable curry is the ultimate Himalayan fuel.
- The 24-Hour Rule: You’ll often see the "Dal Bhat Power 24 Hour" T-shirts—this is because Dal Bhat comes with free refills of rice and lentils to keep your energy high!
- Diverse Menus: If you need a break from local food, teahouses offer surprisingly extensive menus, including Tibetan bread, porridge, eggs, Momos (dumplings), noodles, pasta, and even pizza.
- Himalayan Coffee Culture: You don’t have to settle for instant coffee. Many lodges, even at higher altitudes like Ghorepani, now feature bean-to-cup machines for your morning latte or espresso.
Teahouse Lodging: Authentic Mountain Hospitality
This is a "Teahouse Trek", meaning we stay in permanent stone lodges rather than tents.
- Established Hubs: In major stops like Ghorepani and Landruk, you will find well-established guest houses, some offering rooms with attached bathrooms.
- Higher Altitudes: Beyond these hubs, rooms remain private, but bathrooms are typically shared. Most toilets are Western-style commodes.
- Cozy Dining: While bedrooms are not heated, the communal dining areas feature traditional wood-burning stoves, creating a warm environment to socialize and relax in the evenings.
- Pro Tip: Pack a quick-dry travel towel, as lodges do not provide them.
Staying Powered & Connected
- Electricity & Charging: Power is stable up to Landruk, where charging is usually free. At higher elevations like Low Camp (Rest Camp) and High Camp, lodges rely on solar power, and a small fee (approx. NPR 100–300) per device is standard.
- WiFi & Data: Many teahouses offer WiFi for a small fee (approx. NPR 200). However, connections can be unstable due to weather.
- The Best Connection: We recommend getting a Nepal Telecom (NTC) SIM card with a data pack. It is generally more stable and cost-effective than teahouse WiFi on this specific route.
Water & Hygiene
- Drinking Water: To protect the fragile mountain environment, we highly recommend using a reusable bottle with purification tablets or a filter. You can also purchase boiled or filtered water at every lodge (starting from NPR 100 per liter).
- Hot Showers: Staying clean is easy! Gas geysers or hot bucket water are available throughout the trek for a small fee (starting from NPR 200).
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.
FAQs
- How Difficult Is The Ghorepani - Mardi Himal Trek?
This is a moderate trek. While the Mardi Himal section is steeper and reaches a higher altitude (4,500m), the first half of the trip through Ghorepani acts as perfect "active acclimatization." If you can walk 5–6 hours a day on uneven terrain, you can complete this trek.
- Can We Really Skip The Ulleri Stone Stairs?
Yes! We arrange a private 4WD Jeep from Pokhara to bypass the grueling climb. In normal weather, we can reach as far as Banthanti. During heavy monsoon rains, the jeep may stop slightly earlier, but a new bridge is under construction to ensure year-round vehicle access.
- What Kind Of Insurance Do I Need For This Route?
You must have travel insurance that specifically covers trekking up to 4,500 meters. Many standard policies only cover up to 3,000m. Ensure your policy includes emergency helicopter evacuation and medical coverage.
- When And Where Do I Meet My Guide?
We provide your guide’s details 2 days before the trip. If you are starting in Pokhara, your guide will meet you at your hotel the evening before for a briefing, gear check, and to provide your trek map and duffle bag. We can also meet you in Kathmandu for an early briefing if you are staying there first.
- Is There WiFi And Electricity On The Trail?
Yes, most teahouses have WiFi (usually for a small fee of $2–$5) and charging stations for your devices. However, at High Camp, electricity is often solar-powered, so we recommend bringing a power bank for your phone and camera.
- Is The Water Safe To Drink?
We recommend using water purification tablets or a filtered bottle (like LifeStraw). While bottled water is available for purchase at lower altitudes, we encourage trekkers to use purified tap water to reduce plastic waste in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Useful Information
Navigating Nepal: Insider Tips for Your Ghorepani – Mardi Himal Adventure
At Rugged Trails Nepal, we believe a successful trek starts long before you reach the trailhead. To help you navigate the Himalayas with the confidence of a local, we’ve compiled these essential "Insider Tips" regarding safety, logistics, and culture.
1. Street Smarts in Kathmandu & Thamel
While the 7-day Ghorepani Mardi Himal Trek begins and ends in Pokhara, most travelers start their journey in Kathmandu.
- Avoid "Shopping Traps": In Thamel, you may be approached by friendly locals offering to practice English or show you around. Many of these individuals work on commission and may lead you to overpriced shops.
- The Pro Move: A polite "No, thank you" is all you need. For authentic recommendations on gear, pashminas, or art, always consult your Rugged Trails guide.
2. Food Safety: Protecting Your Trek
Nothing ruins a trek faster than a stomach upset.
- Stick to Reputable Cafes: While street food smells amazing, we recommend avoiding it right before your trek if your stomach isn't accustomed to South Asian spices.
- Eat at the Finish Line: Stick to high-quality restaurants in Kathmandu or Pokhara pre-trek. Save the street food adventures for your post-trek celebration dinner!
3. Money & the "Mountain Mindset"
- Currency & ATMs: ATMs are plentiful in Kathmandu and Pokhara. We recommend exchanging your currency in Kathmandu to get the most competitive rates before heading into the Annapurna region.
- Patience is a Virtue: Himalayan travel is unpredictable. Road conditions and weather can change instantly. A "Mountain Mindset"—being calm, flexible, and friendly—is the secret to a memorable journey.
4. Cultural Etiquette & Connection
- Learn the Language: A simple "Namaste" (Hello) or "Dhanyabad" (Thank you) opens doors and hearts.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals. If you are a photography enthusiast, we recommend using a zoom lens for respectful portrait shots.
5. How to Reach Pokhara from Kathmandu (4 Best Ways)
Before starting your Annapurna trek, you must reach Pokhara. Here are the most reliable options:
| Option | Travel Time | Approx. Cost | Best For... |
| Tourist Bus | 7–8 Hours | Rs. 1,000+ | Budget Travelers (7:00 AM Departure) |
| Night Bus | 8–9 Hours | Rs. 1,300+ | Saving a day (8:00 PM Departure) |
| Private Jeep/Car | 5–6 Hours | $100 USD+ | Comfort, groups, or rafting stops |
| Domestic Flight | 25 Minutes | $118 USD | Speed and luxury (Daily flights) |
Pro Tip: If taking the Night Bus, bring earplugs. These buses often play loud local music or movies. If driving, please note that ongoing construction on the Prithvi Highway currently makes the 210 km journey take about 6 hours.
6. Luggage Storage with Rugged Trails Nepal
Don't carry what you don't need! We offer secure storage for your extra bags while you are on the trail.
- Our Policy: We store clothing and gear, but for safety reasons, we do not store cash, jewelry, or high-value electronics.
- Hotel Storage: Most hotels in Pokhara offer free luggage storage for returning guests—a very convenient and common practice.
- Hassle-Free Logistics: Once you return from the Mardi Himal trek, we can arrange to transport your stored luggage to your new hotel or your next destination.
24/7 Support for Your Peace of Mind
Whether you are starting in Kathmandu or meeting us in Pokhara, the Rugged Trails Nepal team is always available via WhatsApp or phone. You aren't just a client; you are traveling with friends in the Himalayas.
Ghorepani - Mardi Himal Seasonal Weather Chart
| Season | Month | Temp (High Camp) | Views & Visibility | Trail Notes |
| Winter | January | -10C to 5C | Crystal Clear | Snow on trails; very cold |
| February | -8C to 7C | Excellent | Potential snow at High Camp | |
| Spring | March | -5C to 12C | Great Morning Views | Rhododendrons blooming |
| April | 2C to 15C | Excellent | Peak season; perfect weather | |
| May | 5C to 20C | Hazy Afternoons | Warm and lush greenery | |
| Monsoon | June | 8C to 18C | Cloudy / Mist | Wet trails and leeches |
| July | 10C to 18C | Low Visibility | Heavy rain; mountains hidden | |
| August | 10C to 18C | Mist & Clouds | Lush forests; high waterfalls | |
| Autumn | September | 5C to 15C | Improving | Rain stops; fresh air |
| October | 0C to 14C | Best Clarity | Most popular trekking month | |
| November | -2C to 10C | Sharp & Clear | Dry air; getting colder | |
| Winter | December | -7C to 6C | Brilliant Skies | Quiet trails; winter freeze |
Quick Weather Tips:
- Temperature Gap: Remind travelers that Pokhara is tropical and warm, but Mardi Himal High Camp (3,580m) is alpine and cold. They need to pack for both summer and winter!
- The Early Bird Rule: In the Himalayas, the best views are almost always between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Clouds usually move in by the afternoon, especially in the Spring.
- Safety First: During the winter months (Dec–Feb), the trail from High Camp to the Upper View Point can be icy. We recommend trekkers carry micro-spikes (crampons) for safety.
Essential Packing List: Ghorepani - Mardi Himal Trek
The secret to a comfortable trek is the layering system. You want to be able to strip down to a T-shirt during sunny afternoons and bundle up in a warm down jacket the moment the sun drops below the peaks. While the teahouses provide plenty of warm blankets, we recommend bringing your own lightweight "puffy" sleeping bag for extra comfort and personal hygiene. Follow the link to find out the trekking gear checklist and to buy trekking gear in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.
1. Clothing: The Layering System
Base Layers:
2-3 Moisture-wicking T-shirts: Synthetic or merino wool (avoid cotton as it stays wet).
1 Long-sleeve base layer: Perfect for sun protection and chilly mornings.
1 Pair of Thermal tops/bottoms: Essential for sleeping and the early morning hike to Poon Hill/Mardi Viewpoint.
Mid & Outer Layers:
1 Fleece Jacket: Your primary layer for trekking in the morning.
1 Down Jacket: Essential for high-altitude evenings and sunrise hikes.
1 Waterproof/Windbreaker Shell: To protect against unexpected mountain wind or rain.
Bottoms:
1-2 Pairs of Trekking Trousers: Lightweight and quick-dry (convertible zip-offs are highly recommended).
1 Pair of Leggings or Track Pants: Comfortable wear for the teahouses in the evening.
Head & Hands:
Sun Hat or Cap: Crucial for intense high-altitude UV rays.
Warm Beanie: For cold mornings and nights.
Lightweight Gloves: To protect against the morning chill.
2. Footwear & Gear
- Hiking Boots: Mid-cut with good ankle support. Important: Ensure they are well broken-in before your trip!
- Trekking Socks: 3 pairs of wool-blend socks (these help prevent blisters and manage moisture).
- Camp Shoes: Sandals or lightweight sneakers to let your feet breathe at the teahouses.
- Daypack (20-30L): To carry your water, camera, rain jacket, and sunblock. Your main luggage will be carried by our porters.
- Headlamp: Essential for sunrise hikes and navigating teahouses at night (with extra batteries).
3. Health & Personal Care
- Sun Protection: SPF 30+ sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and polarized sunglasses.
- Hydration: Two 1-liter reusable water bottles and water purification tablets or a filter.
- First Aid Kit: Moleskin/blister tape, ibuprofen, rehydration salts, and any personal medications.
- Personal Hygiene: Wet wipes (a "mountain shower"), hand sanitizer, and a small quick-dry travel towel.
- Power Bank: To keep your phone and camera charged at higher altitudes.
Do I Need Travel Insurance for This Trek?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. While the Ghorepani – Mardi Himal route is a moderate trek, having comprehensive insurance is the best way to ensure a "stress-free" journey in the Himalayas.
1. Why It’s Important
In Nepal, insurance is becoming mandatory for many trekking permits (such as the Manaslu Circuit), where both staff and trekkers must show proof of coverage. Even on shorter treks, insurance protects you against:
- Medical Emergencies: Coverage for injuries or sudden illness.
- Altitude Sickness: Although this trek is safer than others, you will still reach 4,500m (14,764 ft), where altitude-related issues can occur.
- Travel Delays & Cancellations: Protection for flight delays (common in Nepal) or trip interruptions.
2. Elevation Requirements
When purchasing your policy, ensure it covers trekking up to 4,500 meters. Many standard travel insurance policies only cover up to 2,500m or 3,000m. You must verify that your "Adventure Sports" or "Trekking" rider includes high-altitude coverage up to 4,500m.
3. Recommended Insurance Providers
To make your planning easier, we have compiled a list of reputable companies that specialized in high-altitude coverage.
Read our guide:Best Travel Insurance for Nepal Trekking
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!
