Two trails, one sunrise, yet each one is a whole new adventure. At Mardi Himal, you walk above the clouds to see Machapuchare's shining face. At Poon Hill, you welcome the golden sunrise over Dhaulagiri with hundreds of happy trekkers.
Both treks promise magic in Annapurna, but which one is right for you? In this guide, our experienced local specialists show you the true distinctions, hidden gems, and how to pick (or even combine) these two amazing trips.
As the first light tips over the blade-sharp peak of Machapuchare into Mardi Himal's ridge line, trekkers miles away in Poon Hill are watching a similar sunrise wash across Dhaulagiri's frozen peaks. Both are moments of pure Himalayan magic— but both are something much different too. And that's where almost all trekkers get hung up—should you go for the less-visited solitude of a ridge-top trek to Mardi Himal or opt for the iconic Poon Hill trek with its sunrise?
With more than 15 years of experience guiding both trails in all climate conditions, we've identified what makes them so different – and which hikers are best suited to each.
We are well aware of the overwhelming experience you go through when comparing treks online. There are hundreds of blogs vying to show you the best possible treks. That's precisely why we decided to make this guide. It's a fair comparison between treks that our team members have done more times than we can count.
Then you'll know precisely which trek you are best suited for based on fitness level, availability of time, or travel preferences — or both if you are just not sure which one to pick!
Both the treks to Mardi Himal and Poon Hill take place in the midst of Annapurna itself. They are not more than a few hours away from Pokhara. But these treks are surprisingly divergent.
Poon Hill Trek (also referred to as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek), holds a reputation for being its most classic short trek. Spanning over a period of 4 to 5 days, originating from Nayapul or Ulleri, it passes gradually over steep hillsides, stone steps, and rhododendron forests to finally land at Poon Hill (3,210 m), which serves as witnessing ground to one of the most famous sunrises in the Himalayas.
The Mardi Himal Trek, on the other hand, is relatively a new route which has been identified in recent years for trekkers. From Kande or Phedi to High Camp (3,580m), with an optional ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), this trek takes around 5 to 7 days to complete. It leads gradually to the ridge line beneath the revered mountain Machapuchare (6,993m).
As far as elevation gain goes, Poon Hill is relatively easier—the trails are well-constructed with stone staircases and lodges spaced at intervals. In comparison, Mardi Himal treks are more rugged—trails are narrower with steep mountain climbs. In terms of elevation gain too, Mardi Himal treks are steeper with greater elevation gains of nearly 1,300 meters.
With the official opening of the new trail to Mardi Himal in 2012, one thing that quietly transitioned was that local guides began favoring this route not because it's less challenging but because it remains relatively authentic and less crowded, a glimpse into what trekking in Nepal was like.
| Feature | Mardi Himal Trek | Poon Hill Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5-7 days | 4-5 days |
| Max Elevation | 4,500m (Base Camp) | 3,210m (Poon Hill) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Challenging | Easy to Moderate |
| Trail Type | Narrow, ridge-line, rugged | Well-built, stone steps |
| Crowd Level | Low to Moderate | High (popular route) |
| Best For | Solitude seekers, photographers | First-timers, families, groups |
One thing you want to achieve in your hiking adventure? Walk amid clouds with mountains looming before you. Then pick Mardi Himal. The route rapidly ascends to rhododendron forests before linking to an exposed mountain ridge topped by Machapuchare (Fishtail). From High Camp, see Annapurna South and Hiunchuli tinted in copper and gold shortly before dawn. Not many trekkers get to stay this high.
Poon Hill provides a wider view but from lower ground. Taking in the view platform before dawn, you'll be one of dozens of trekkers waiting for the first light to illuminate Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Nilgiri. The journey itself wanders past Gurung and Magar villages that seem frozen in time, stone trails lined with rhododendron forests bursting with pink and red blooms in spring.
Insider's tip: On days with good weather, you'll get 360-degree views from Mardi's ridge, but Poon Hill offers just one epic moment to witness the sunrise before the trail goes green and you're enveloped once more.
Be prepared for steeper climbs and lessened air density after Day 3. Trails become treacherous after rain. Trekking poles are useful in such conditions.
It's a gentle exercise but not too tough, which makes it perfect for beginners.
In the case of Mardi Himal, teahouses expanded rapidly since 2018. One can expect warm wooden interiors with minimal electricity (solar-powered in higher camps), but Wi-fi signals aren't reliable. Cloud View Guest House, near Low Camp or Namaste Teahouse near High Camp, would serve warm meals and plenty of warm blankets. Nights can get freezing in October to December.
The trek to Poon Hill is much more refined—there are Hotel Snow View options in Ghorepani or Rhododendron Guest House in Tadapani with private rooms, warm showers, charging points, and baked goodies.
The bottom line: Poon Hill if you want quiet and rustic scenery or Mardi if you like to stay warm and sociably.
With its passage through quiet Gurung villages like Siding or Lwang Ghalel, where cups of mountain tea are poured directly into brass kettles and trekkers are greeted with tentative "Namastes" by village children, you get to witness bee-keeping methods that are traditional to the region.
Poon Hill offers a glimpse into Magar culture that thrives in areas like Ghorepani and Ulleri. March to April rhododendron festivals are held to pay homage to the flowering season.
Etiquette tip: Take photos around or of senior members with respect, enter houses without shoes, and say "Namaste" to locals with your hands together.
Carry a 24-70 zoom lens for landscape and portraits. Drones are not allowed inside the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Both treks offer something unique – it's not a case of which is best but which suits your rhythm. Mardi Himal offers those who yearn for quiet ridges and a raw experience. Poon Hill offers the Himalayan dream a few days into your trip.
"Even a beautiful trek can become stressful if one does not know basic details like permits, transportation, packing, and budget", so we've compiled a list to allow you to prepare with confidence for either a Poon Hill trek or an alternative like a Mardi Himal Trek.
Both treks are within the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), so you will need a standard trekking permit:
| Permit Type | Cost (USD) | Where to Get |
|---|---|---|
| ACAP Entry Permit | $30 (3,000 NPR) | Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu or Pokhara |
| TIMS Card (optional for organized treks) | $10-20 | TIMS Counter, Pokhara |
Your trekking agency can arrange it easily before departure. This saves a few hours of paperwork. Don't forget to carry passport-sized photos along with your passport photocopy.
| Trek | Starting Point | Distance from Pokhara | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mardi Himal | Kande or Phedi | 30-40 km (1 hour drive) | Private jeep or local bus |
| Poon Hill | Nayapul | 42 km (1.5 hour drive) | Private jeep or shared bus |
A taxi ride will cost around USD 40-50 return, or around USD 10 for local transportation.
If you want a smooth commute, your guide will pick you directly from your hotel after breakfast. He or she will organize your lunch before you proceed to the first village.
Both are short treks but with slightly varying conditions:
Nights at High Camp or Base Camp can go down to -5°C in autumn or winter.
Warmer trail (rarely below 0°C in main season).
In both treks, your daypack should not weigh more than 6-8 kg. You will have a porter who will carry your big duffel bag. Make sure to pack it in waterproofing plastic.
Below is a cost estimate breakdown associated with hiking using a licensed local tour operator (per person in USD dollars):
| Cost Item | Mardi Himal Trek | Poon Hill Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Guide fee (per day) | $30-35 | $30-35 |
| Porter fee (per day) | $25-30 | $25-30 |
| Accommodation (per night) | $3-8 (teahouse) | $5-10 (teahouse) |
| Meals (per day) | $20-30 | $20-30 |
| Total Package Cost (organized) | $400-600 | $350-500 |
Pro tip: Be sure to check inclusions before you book, as budget options sometimes exclude water drinking, shower charges, or transportation back to your village. With our team, you'll get a complete pricing list – no hidden "village fees"!
| Season | Mardi Himal | Poon Hill |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Clear mornings, occasional mist on ridges | Rhododendron blooms, warmer trails |
| Autumn (Sept-Nov) | Best visibility, crisp air, busier trails | Perfect weather, crowded sunrise spots |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Snow at High Camp, fewer trekkers, colder nights | Clear skies, chilly mornings, manageable trails |
| Monsoon (Jun-Aug) | Lush greenery, leeches, cloud-blocked views | Green forests, wet stone steps, fewer crowds |
Or if you like quiet with clear picture-taking conditions, late November or mid-December has incredible clarity with fewer trekkers.
Can't choose? Well, You don't have to.
A smart combination route would go like this: Kande to Mardi Himal Base Camp to Landruk to Ghandruk to Ghorepani to Poon Hill. And you get a 10 to 12 day circuit. That's the best of both worlds – rugged Mardi or rich Poon Hill.
We frequently recommend this combination to our travelers. We organize private transportation between parts to cater to both luxury and adventure seekers. It's a great option for photographers or repeat trekkers who want to explore more.
Visitors generally underestimate the difference in 'trail feeling' between these two. 'Mardi Himal Trek' feels spiritual. It's like you are building a personal connection with Mount Himalayas. 'Poon Hill Trek' feels like a celebration. It's like you are witnessing Mount Himalayas' grandeur together. Whichever you opt for, having a trusted guide makes all the difference— not merely for navigating but for connection to culture, weather safety, and insider's warmth that cannot ever be found in a map.
Both treks—Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill Trek—are safe to undertake and well-guided. The conditions are quite different in terms of elevation. Awareness of these differences before you embark will not only ensure a safe journey but a very enjoyable journey too. This guide has been written to make you completely confident before you actually embark.
The maximum point to stay overnight on the Mardi Himal Trek is High Camp (3,580m), which offers a day trek to Base Camp (4,500m). While not a serious concern in terms of health, the lower oxygen density does make breathing a bit more laborious for those who are not used to high altitudes. Be sure to move at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated with warm water or ginger tea, and resist alcoholic beverages until after returning to lower elevations.
Adding an additional night stay in Low Camp or High Camp represents one of the easiest ways to acclimate. For those aged over 50 or who are inexperienced trekkers above 3'000 meters, this really makes a great difference. Not to forget that you get to enjoy more sunset time amidst these mountains.
In comparison, Poon Hill has a maximum elevation of 3,210 m, which is still a safe point. Very few trekkers tend to face issues related to elevation sickness at this point. As a result, it has become a preferred point for people who want to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas regardless of whether they are carrying heavy backpacks or are senior citizens.
Local knowledge: At high altitudes, water is the true 'secret' to staying healthy—try to get in at least 3 liters per day. Garlic soup, electric lemons, or 'black' tea are traditional Nepalese tiger 'cures' that actually work.
The ridgeline trek to Mardi Himal offers relatively high exposure compared to shorter treks. As a result, there are possible dramatic temperature changes. In late autumn to winter months, you can expect night-time temperatures to go below -5°C or drop to lower numbers around High Camp. In terms of dressing warmly for an earlier departure to base camp to enjoy the viewpoints, you are advised to wear warm layers like down jackets, insulating layers like base layers, or wind-resistant jackets. The guide will set off around 4.30-5.00 am to conquer the top.
Fog and mist can also hamper the Poon Hill trek. They are common in spring (March to May). The lower forests tend to become fogged up around mid-morning. Thus, to witness that famous sunrise view from Poon Hill between 5:30-6:00 a.m. calls for rising with the sun. Trails are not affected even if there's rain. Take a light rain coat, quick-drying pants, and a poncho to cover your backpack.
In both options, waterproof trekking boots are essential. In spring or monsoon, you can expect to find wet stone steps or muddy trails. And remember—conditions in the Himalayas are liable to change in minutes. Our guides check mountain weather forecasts before heading out each morning. They can then adapt to ensure you stay safe but also get to your desired destinations on schedule.
Bonus tip: During colder months, you can purchase warm water bottles (available in some teahouses) which are really helpful in sleeping in those high-altitude areas.
Both treks lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Thus, in case of a need to evacuate, rescues can happen seamlessly. Helicopter rescues are possible at all times of the year. Also, we keep contact with our counterparts in both Pokhara and Kathmandu around the clock. It's mandatory to purchase travel insurance that includes trekking to 5,000 m and helicopter evac.
The nearest major medical facilities for those trekking to Mardi Himal are found in Pokhara City Hospital, which can be reached within 3-4 hours of landing. As for Poon Hill treks, Ghandruk Health Post or Birethanti Clinic are available to address some basic complaints. Every guide you will trek with will possess first-aid supplies.
In our experience, almost all health issues are actually relatively trivial—blisters, dehydration, or fatigue. But our staff considers health prevention to be first and foremost. Every day, our guides check trekkers' sleeping patterns, eating routines, and hiking to make sure trekkers are all within the "safe zone."
Actual scenario: A person had slight dizziness near Low Camp during a spring trek. We stopped to relax with local tea. We rested for two hours. Later in the afternoon, she was smiling. Slowly, she trekked to High Camp. Clearly, patience, not speed, holds the answer to safety in the Himalayas.
Neither of these treks requires you to be an elite hiker. As long as you possess a decent level of fitness and an optimistic attitude, you'll manage both treks. Provided you are capable of hiking 5 to 6 hours in hilly areas carrying light luggage, you'll find no issues. Beginning light exercises like walking, staircase training, or cycling three to four weeks prior to landing in Ladakh will improve both your endurance and confidence.
In the Mardi Himal trek, there are steeper ascents (particularly between Forest Camp and High Camp), so flexibility exercises are also beneficial. As for Poon Hill, endurance training is more emphasized since there are continuous steps—most notably Day 2's ascent from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani involving more than 3,000 stone steps.
Preparation for the mind is equally important. Trekking days begin earlier than you are used to, meals are plain, and luxury to a minimum. But these are the moments you savor later—drinking tea in a wooden teahouse, watching clouds move across mountain peaks, laughing with your porter.
We've had trekkers aged 10 to 72 undertake these routes. The trick isn't to be young or athletic but to have pacing, mindset, and the benefit of a qualified local staff. As one of our guests from Canada reported after doing Mardi Himal Trek at 61 years with us:
"I understood that instead of testing my body, 'the mountain was teaching me to slow down and see.'"
In leading our treks, we are founded on a simple ideology. The prioritization task for us remains safety first, smiles second, and summit third. In our planning concerning acclimatization or weather observations, our aim remains to leave you fit, happy, and tuned to the 'Spirit of the Himalayas'!
With proper planning in place, with a guide to show you the way, mountains are no longer something to be feared but become like home.
We've helped hundreds of trekkers complete both the Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill Trek routes. And naturally, we've heard numerous queries. Below are some common queries related to these treks. We've provided answers that are both honest and informed based on our first-hand knowledge.
Poon Hill Trek is an excellent option if you are a first-time trekker. The trek is relatively shorter compared to other treks to Everest Base Camp. The maximum elevation you'll need to climb to will only be 3,210 meters. The trek passes through villages and teahouses. These are warm villages with welcoming communities.
But nonetheless, compared to other treks in Nepal, both Poon Hill and Mardi Himal treks are relatively easier. Poon Hill does not involve high-altitude hiking like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks. In fact, after completing these treks, you are bound to get hooked to mountains. As a result, you'll see some trekkers doing Poon Hill in the first year, returning to Poon Hill in the following year.
The two prime treks that take place in Nepal are in spring (March to May), which offers pleasant weather with clear skies, and autumn (Sept to Nov), when there are clear skies and favorable weather.
As spring treks allow you to witness rhododendron forests blooming with flowers in red, pink, and white hues.
During fall treks, you get to enjoy crisp and dry weather conditions. In winter (December to February), you can opt for both treks. But you need to bear in mind that nights can get colder, especially if you are trekking above 3,000 meters. During Monsoon (June to August), you get to see greenery around you since treks are less crowded.
Both trails feature teahouses run by Gurung or Magars. These are small but lovely lodging options. Also, meals are generally in common areas that are warmed by wood-burning stoves. Further, these teahouses are relatively basic. They feature shared bathrooms.
In Poon Hill, teahouses are marginally more developed with a more extensive menu for eating. In Mardi Himal, specifically past Forest Camp, there are fewer lodges. But these are run with typical Himalayan hospitality—home-style dal bhat meals, 'hot' lemon tea. And if you're lucky, you get to listen to some Nepali songs around the fire. These evening gatherings are something that trekkers remember lifelong.
Both treks are classified as moderately difficult. They will test your endurance but not your technical hiking skills. On the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need to trek for 5-7 hours per day. There are steep ascents to climb. The steepest climb is between High Camp and Base Camp.
As for Poon Hill, a normal trek takes around 4-6 hours per day. The toughest part of trekking to Poon Hill would involve walking up to 3,000+ steps of stone steps that go from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani. But your guide will pace you easily so you can enjoy trekking because you'll be walking amidst a lot of greenery in a natural environment with waterfalls.
Although hiking alone can be feasible, engaging a licensed local guide is highly advised. They organize everything related to your trek, manage your lodges, and check your health status daily. Meanwhile, porters are responsible for carrying your baggage (up to 12-15 kg), so you'll only need a daypack. More importantly, traveling with a local group of trekkers adds to your adventure. Along with learning mountain culture, you will pick up some local vocabulary and hidden spots you never would have found otherwise. In fact, our guests love hearing that camaraderie with their guide/porter was one of the highlights of trekking.
Tips:
Don't pack too much because you can get everything you need in Pokhara. Also, you'll need to take some money with you in local currency (Nepalese Rupees), which you will need for your personal expenditures. There are no ATMs past Nayapul or in the villages of Siding.
Absolutely — if you've got around 10-12 days in hand. The combined trek offers you a glimpse into both the tranquil ridge of Mardi Himal and a bustling sunrise at Poon Hill. The trek begins from Kande, treks to Mardi Himal Base Camp, descends to Landruk, passes through Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, and ends at Nayapul.
"This combination features a great synergy—there's adventure in one option and plenty to see in terms of culture. And everything fits within a medium level of difficulty. This combination appeals to quite a few travelers looking for 'the best of both worlds'," adds one of our staff members.
Locally-based trekking companies will mean you pay fair wages and are involved in proper portering. And you are not merely arranging a trek but are directly supporting mountain communities. With us, as you travel, your journey will be tailored to your needs whether you like to focus on photographing nature's wonders, immerse in local culture, or simply get away to relax alone. We will take care of everything so you can focus on what's truly important—walking in the Himalayas' shadow.
As the sun sets behind the Annapurna range, coloring Dhaulagiri gold, it's not hard to see why these two treks--Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill Trek--have become so popular with trekkers to Nepal. They are two very different excursions into the same Himalayan soul.
And if you are looking for quiet trails, mountain grandeur, or the thrill of hiking in a rarely trod place, you are traveling the route to Mardi Himal. Every footstep you take to get there draws you deeper into Machapuchare's realm of spiritual quiet — a phenomenon that's both raw and fundamentally personal.
And if you are someone who loves living in villages, coziness, and traditional sceneries—that begin with one of the world's finest sunrises visible with the dawn's light—then Poon Hill Trek will actually become a trek you will never forget. Poon Hill Trek represents a warm hug to Nepal—the warm welcoming face, cups of steaming 'Masala Tea,' everything fitting perfectly into a short journey.
| Choose Mardi Himal if you want... | Choose Poon Hill if you want... |
|---|---|
| Solitude and fewer crowds | Social atmosphere and popular trails |
| Higher altitude challenge (up to 4,500m) | Easier, lower elevation trek (3,210m) |
| Close-up mountain ridge experience | Panoramic sunrise from viewpoint |
| Rugged, authentic trails | Well-built stone paths |
| 5-7 days trekking time | 4-5 days trekking time |
| Adventure photography | Cultural immersion in villages |
| More physical challenge | Beginner-friendly option |
In both treks, the same heart pulses—of Gurung and Magars' kindness, rhythm of the trail, and happiness found in mountain simplicity. The only difference lies in your desire to experience the Himalayas. Do you want to experience them in quiet awe or in colorful connection?
Now after more than 15 years guiding both routes, we can say with certainty: you can't go wrong. Every trek offers its own brand of peace. We've had trekkers crying silently in awe at Mardi's View Point when the clouds parted to show them Machapuchare, or laughing and dancing after Poon Hill's first Himalayan sunrise.
And other times, you may not want to decide which trek to undertake because you prefer reflection or since you prefer celebration. But if you need reflection, go to Mardi Himal. And if you need celebration, go to Poon Hill. Or if you want both? We'll create a trek itinerary that's just for you.
Whether you've got five days or two weeks to devote to our trekking adventures, our team of local experts stands ready to assist you in planning your trek based on your fitness level, timeframe, and travel aspirations. We take care of everything so that your experience remains seamless.
Both trails lead to discovery. The choice to make is — which sunrise are you going to witness?
Whether you are planning to experience the untouched ridges of Mardi Himal or witness a golden sunset from Poon Hill, we will guide you to create your trek according to your fitness level, desired date of travel, and adventurous nature.
Our local experts have done these routes hundreds of times and know every curve, teahouse, or sunrise point worth stopping for.
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