Two iconic Annapurna treks in one unforgettable Himalayan journey
The 9-day Poon Hill and Mardi Himal combined trek is one of the most rewarding short trekking adventures in Nepal. It perfectly blends the classic sunrise viewpoint of Ghorepani Poon Hill with the off-the-beaten-path alpine experience of Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Both routes lie within the breathtaking Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal’s largest protected trekking region, known for its rich biodiversity, traditional villages, and dramatic Himalayan scenery.
This journey starts and ends in Pokhara, making it easily accessible for trekkers with limited time who still want a complete Himalayan experience.
Trip Overview
- Duration: 9 Days
- Maximum altitude: 4,500m (Mardi Himal Base Camp) / 3,210m (Poon Hill)
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Accommodation: Teahouse / Mountain lodge
- Start & End point: Pokhara
- Best seasons: March–May & September–November
- Trek style: Scenic + Cultural + Alpine adventure
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul → Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)
Your journey begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, passing through lush hills, rivers, and terraced farmland. From Nayapul, the trek officially starts as you follow the Modi Khola river valley, passing small villages and suspension bridges.
The trail gradually ascends to Tikhedhunga, a peaceful village surrounded by green hills.
Overnight: Tikhedhunga
Highlights: Riverside trekking, rural villages, first Himalayan foothills experience
Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860m)
This is one of the most challenging uphill days of the Poon Hill section. The trail climbs steep stone steps through Ulleri village, which has over 3,000 steps, before entering dense rhododendron and oak forests.
As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and mountain views begin to appear.
Ghorepani is a beautiful mountain village surrounded by forests and snow peaks.
Overnight: Ghorepani
Highlights: Ulleri stone steps, rhododendron forests, mountain village atmosphere
Day 3: Early Morning Poon Hill Sunrise → Trek to Tadapani
Early morning, you hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. From here, you witness a magical sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and surrounding peaks.
After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, the trek continues through dense forest trails toward Tadapani, offering peaceful nature walking and occasional mountain views.
Overnight: Tadapani
Highlights: Sunrise panorama, Himalayan range views, forest trekking
Day 4: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1,940m)
The trail descends through rhododendron forests and stone steps toward Ghandruk, one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in the Annapurna region.
Ghandruk offers rich cultural experiences, traditional stone houses, and excellent views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.
Overnight: Ghandruk
Highlights: Gurung culture, traditional village, mountain viewpoints
Day 5: Ghandruk to Landruk → Trek to Jhinu Danda (Hot Springs)
Today’s trek continues through scenic forests and river valleys. You descend toward Landruk village and then gradually move toward Jhinu Danda.
Jhinu is famous for its natural hot springs located beside the Modi Khola river, where trekkers can relax and recover.
Overnight: Jhinu Danda
Highlights: Natural hot springs, river valley scenery, forest trails
Day 6: Jhinu Danda → Drive to Kande → Trek to Forest Camp (Mardi Route)
After breakfast, you either drive or trek to Kande/Pothana area, where the Mardi Himal section begins. The trail ascends through dense rhododendron forests filled with birds, orchids, and peaceful wilderness.
You reach Forest Camp, a quiet settlement surrounded by thick forest.
Overnight: Forest Camp
Highlights: Transition to Mardi route, dense forest trekking, peaceful environment
Day 7: Forest Camp to High Camp (3,580m)
Today’s trek becomes steeper as you climb above the tree line. The trail follows narrow ridges with breathtaking views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
High Camp is a small settlement located on a ridge with panoramic Himalayan views.
Overnight: High Camp
Highlights: Ridge walking, close-up Machapuchare views, alpine landscape
Day 8: High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) → Return to Low Camp
This is the most important and rewarding day of the Mardi Himal section. Early morning, you hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m).
From the top, you witness dramatic views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, and surrounding glaciers. After spending time at the base camp, you descend back to High Camp and continue down to Low Camp.
Overnight: Low Camp
Highlights: Base camp sunrise, glacier views, high-altitude experience
Day 9: Low Camp to Siding → Drive to Pokhara
The final trekking day descends through forests and small local villages toward Siding. This peaceful trail offers a gradual return to lower elevation landscapes.
From Siding, a jeep ride takes you back to Pokhara, marking the end of your unforgettable Himalayan journey.
Overnight: Pokhara (or end of trip)
Highlights: Final descent, local village life, scenic drive
Trekking Highlights:
- Sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210m)
- Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m)
- Close-up view of Machapuchare (Fishtail)
- Traditional Gurung villages (Ghandruk, Landruk)
- Natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda
- Forests, ridges, and alpine landscapes
- Two iconic treks in one journey
For More Information & Booking:
Nepal Tour & Treks Pvt. Ltd
📍 Kathmandu, Nepal
📞 +977 9861779840
📧 info@nepaltourntreks.com
🌐 www.nepaltourntreks.com
We are specialize in:
- Annapurna, Everest, Langtang & Manaslu trekking packages
- Customized private trekking itineraries
- Licensed guides & porter services
- Safe, professional Himalayan adventures
