Best Time for the ABC, Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek
Spring and autumn generally offer the most favorable trekking conditions, with better mountain visibility and more stable weather. March to May and September to November are popular periods for trekking in the Annapurna region. However, each season offers a different experience, from spring rhododendron blooms to the greener landscapes of the monsoon and colder winter scenery.
For a detailed month-by-month comparison of weather, trail conditions, temperatures, and mountain views, see our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Best Time Guide.
Poon Hill, ABC, and Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty
The ABC with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek is a strenuous long-distance trek because it combines almost 13 days of walking with frequent ascents and descents, rugged mountain trails, and elevations above 4,000 meters. Most trekking days involve around 5 to 7 hours of walking, with some sections requiring longer or more demanding climbs.
The gradual itinerary allows your body time to adjust to increasing altitude, but you should still be physically prepared for consecutive days of trekking. Regular hiking, walking, and endurance training for 4 to 6 weeks before the trek can help you build the strength and stamina needed for the journey.
For more information about walking hours, terrain, fitness requirements, and preparation, see our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty Guide.
Altitude and AMS
Altitude sickness can occur at higher elevations, particularly as the trek approaches Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp. The itinerary follows a gradual ascent, but proper pacing, hydration, rest, and awareness of altitude symptoms are important. If you experience symptoms that worsen or do not improve, inform your guide immediately.
For a detailed explanation of the elevation profile, acclimatization, and altitude sickness, read our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Altitude and AMS Guide.
Accommodation
The ABC with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal- 17 Days Package includes accommodation for 16 nights. Four nights will be spent in cities (two in Kathmandu and two in Pokhara), and the other 12 nights will be spent in mountain tea houses.
Teahouse accommodations along the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) via Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek are generally basic and offer a mix of rustic charm and essential amenities such as clean bedding, basic toiletries, and communal dining areas. Rooms are primarily simple twin beds with thin mattresses, blankets, and pillows, and at the higher altitudes (ABC, High Camp), they are dormitory-style, meaning you will share a room with other trekkers in bunk beds.
The bathrooms are shared (squat/Western) with cold-water sinks. Hot showers are available in lower villages like Ghorepani, Landruk, or Chhomrong.
Accommodation on the trail is mainly in local teahouses and guesthouses, with facilities becoming more basic at higher elevations. For more information about rooms, bathrooms, hot showers, and what to expect at different stops, read our Annapurna Base Camp Trek Accommodation Guide.
Food and drinks
Our package includes 41 meals (16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, and 12 dinners). The breakfasts are included in the city hotel, and all three meals a day are included on the trek. You will have dinner and breakfast in the lodge/tea houses. You will stay overnight and have lunch in the tea houses available along the trail.
Indulge in breakfast options such as porridge (oatmeal or rice), Tibetan/Gurung bread, chapatti, pancakes, toast with jam/honey, scrambled/fried eggs, muesli, and cornflakes. For lunch and dinners, enjoy the local favorite, Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetable curry, pickles), or other options like Thukpa (noodle soup), chow mein, fried rice, pasta dishes, pizza, and sandwiches.
Quench your thirst with various beverages available at the teahouses, including milk tea, black tea, coffee, hot lemon, and hot chocolate. Rest assured, you will have plenty of options to refresh you during your trek.
For a more detailed look at the meals available along the trail, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, desserts, and drinking water, read our Food and Drinks in Annapurna Base Camp Trek guide.
Nepal Travel Information