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Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek
US$900

Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek

157 reviews
51 reviews
Recommended by 99% of travelers

Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek combines three famous trekking destinations of the Annapurna region which are Poon Hill, ABC and Mardi Himal Base Camp.

We at Outfitter Himalaya offer a 17-day adventurous Journey in Annapurna and once-in-a-lifetime venture that explores the lush Himalayan foothills and barren, glacial zone.

Trip Facts
Duration
17 Days
Trip Grade
Strenuous
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4130 M
Group Size
1-12
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Hiking and Walking
Best Time
Autumn and Spring
Overview

Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek Overview

Are you intrigued by the beauty and adventure of the Annapurna region? Do you want to explore multiple trekking routes in one trip? Then our Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Himal are one of the perfect options.

We have designed a trekking itinerary in a way that will allow you to acclimatize, avoid altitude sickness, and make you confident as each day passes by. Poon Hill, ABC and Mardi Himal go gradual and offer ample time to enjoy the mountains.

Trekkers looking to challenge themselves and push their limits can consider the ABC with the Annapurna Circuit. It is another fantastic combined trekking program.

Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek Highlights

  • Embark on one of the most adventurous trekking adventures in the Annapurna region and explore three famous destinations
  • Enjoy trekking through rhododendron and bamboo forests, beautiful villages, and uneven hillsides
  • Explore the picturesque Ghorepani village and witness a gorgeous sunrise and mountain view from the Poon Hill viewpoint
  • Experience the simple mountain lifestyle and meet with different mountain communities
  • Make it to the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna Base Camp
  • Indulge in natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda (Tatopani)
  • Enjoy offbeat terrain at the Mardi Himal Base Camp
  • Witness diverse landscapes and jaw-dropping mountain panoramas
  • Come across a wide range of flora, fauna, vegetation, and climates along the trail

The three trekking destinations of the Annapurna region

Ghorepani Poon Hill

Ghorepani is a lovely village located at 2,874 meters. Rhododendron trees and snow-capped mountains surround it. Home to Gurung and Magar communities, Ghorepani village is famous for its beauty. Many tourists visit this village every year to enjoy its beauty and tranquility.

Likewise, Poon Hill is a viewpoint situated above Ghorepani village. You will reach in around an hour's walking distance from Ghorepani. The trail is well-established and goes through rhododendron forests. From the top, you can see a gorgeous sunrise and 17+ mountains.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

Annapurna Base Camp is the lap of the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Annapurna. It is located at 4,130 meters above sea level. Trekking to ABC is exhilarating. You will follow a forested route and traverse the Annapurna Sanctuary.

On the way, you will also come across the infamous Hinku Cave and Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Unlike the world-renowned Everest Base Camp trek, you can spend the night at the ABC, which makes it very special.

Mardi Himal Base Camp

Mardi Himal is located east of Annapurna Base Camp. It is a 5,587-meter peak situated beneath the towering Annapurna and Fishtail mountains. Walking to Mardi Himal Base Camp has gained massive popularity in the last two to three years.

This entry-level offbeat trek offers stunning mountain views and a refreshing break from the crowded ABC and Poon Hill trek routes. It is also a moderately difficult trek, so all ages of trekkers can do it. The trek route is not established like others, so the experience is raw.

Poon Hill, ABC and Mardi Himal Walking Route

ABC with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal has everything Annapurna has to offer. Starting the journey in the bustling city of Kathmandu, you will travel to Pokhara. Explore the two biggest cities in Nepal and shop for the trek before you hit the trail.

A lovely hour-long ride from Pokhara takes you to Nayapul, where you will start walking. You will spend many days trekking through the lush Himalayan foothills and discovering a wide range of flora and fauna. The trail goes through forests of Rhododendrons, Pine, Bamboo, etc.

Likewise, you will pass by picturesque mountain villages, where you can enjoy the mountain lifestyle and observe the locals' daily chores. Cross thrilling suspension bridges over gushing rivers and deep gorges. Follow uneven hillsides overlooking the vast greenery of the lower region.

Throughout the Journey, you will constantly ascend and descend. The trail touches three high points and witnesses jaw-dropping mountain panoramas from all places. Spend the night in simple yet cozy lodges and relish delicious local meals. Enjoy nature, peace, and soothing air. Replenish your heart, soul, and body.

You will love this trek if you love sunrises, sunsets, beautiful landscapes, and heavenly mountain vistas.

Combining the three popular trekking destinations of the Annapurna region allows you to witness a wide range of sceneries in one trip. Every day and every turn in the trail will bring you a diverse landscape. From the lush hills to the snow-capped mountains, the views will change a lot.

The journey will present you with many stunning sunrises and sunsets of your life. Mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Fishtail ), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m), and many others are seen throughout the way.

Annapurna Conservation Area

Poon Hill with ABC and Mardi Himal route is within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The conservation area protects and preserves flora, fauna, vegetation, and the local communities. The Annapurna Conservation Area permit is one of the permits foreigners must obtain to travel in the Annapurna region.

The conservation area is huge and spread across the region. It protects everything living in lush subtropical forests and the alpine zone. The trail is also spread across diverse altitudes, so you will experience diverse climates, weather, and temperatures.

Get top-notch service and genuine price with Outfitter Himalaya

Trekking with a local Nepali company like Outfitter Himalaya ensures you get the finest service, a genuine price, and an immersive experience. We arrange everything for the trek from the ground.

Our dedicated team handles all the arrangements, including transportation, permits, food, and accommodation. You will get all the services as per the itinerary. With us, you are not bound by fixed itineraries. We are very flexible in customizing trips according to your guests' requirements. Safety is our top priority. We make sure our guests are safe and comfortable.

We do not discriminate against anyone. You will feel a home away from home with us. Traveling with us allows you to enjoy perks such as:

Complimentary airport pick-ups and drop-offs as per the itinerary

  • Free duffel bag to use during the trek
  • English-speaking, friendly, native guide and porter
  • Best package cost and no hidden price
  • Full transparency in our policy
  • 24/7 support
  • Flexible itineraries
  • Eco-friendly, sustainable trips
Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek Itinerary Outline
  • Day 01: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
  • Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Day 03: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Ulleri
  • Day 04: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani
  • Day 05: Early morning hike to Poon Hill and trek to Tadapani
  • Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Chommrong
  • Day 07: Trek from Chomrong to Himalaya Hotel
  • Day 08: Trek from Himalaya to Annapurna Base Camp
  • Day 09: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Dovan
  • Day 10: Trek from Dovan to Jhinu Danda
  • Day 11: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Landruk Village
  • Day 12: Trek from Landruk to Forest Camp
  • Day 13: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp
  • Day 14: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and descend back to Low Camp
  • Day 15: Trek to Siding and drive back to Pokhara
  • Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Day 17: Departure from Nepal
Poon hill ABC and Mardi Himal Trekking route map
Roadmap
Itinerary
Poon Hill ABC and Mardi Trek PlanExpand all

Meet the Outfitter Himalaya team at the airport and follow them to the hotel. They will transfer you to the hotel we have booked for you in Thamel. During the ride, enjoy the bustling streets of Kathmandu. Upon reaching the hotel, settle in and get rest. Later in the day, you will prepare for the trek and meet with your mountain guide.

Max Altitude: 1,345m / 4,412 ftAccommodation: HotelTravel Mode: Private Tourist Vehicle

We will begin the day early and have breakfast. Then, get ready to leave the hotel on time and enjoy a comfortable, scenic ride to Pokhara. The highway follows lush hills and rivers, and the scenery is lovely.

You can see waterfalls, terraces, forested hills, small towns, and snow-capped mountains during the ride. Upon reaching Pokhara, check-in at your hotel and spend the remaining day resting and exploring the beautiful Phewa Lake and

Max Altitude: 830m / 2,723 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 210km / 130 milesTravel Mode: Tourist Bus

After a scrumptious breakfast, we will drive for one and a half hours to reach Nayapul from Pokhara. The ride will be scenic and relatively smooth. From Nayapul, the trek starts. You will follow the lush Himalayan foothills and pass through picturesque villages.

Gradually ascend via terraces of maize, rice, and millet. The trail goes past settlements like Birethanti and Sudami. From here, you will walk to Tikhedhunga and continue trekking uphill on stone stairs to reach Ulleri. This part of the route is a bit tough.

Max Altitude: 1,960m / 6,430 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 50km / 31 milesTravel Mode: Vehicle and Walking

Leaving Ulleri, you will follow lush forested hills covered with rhododendrons and other vegetation. Enjoy stunning landscapes on the way. Cross two streams and ascend to Nangethanti. From here, you will keep walking uphill to reach Ghorepani village.

The villagers will welcome us with breathtaking views of mountains like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, Fishtail, and many others. In this village, you can see the lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar communities.

Max Altitude: 2,860m / 9,383 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 11km / 6 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Today, you reach Poon Hill. Before the sunrises, start hiking from Ghorepani to Poon Hill. It is around a one-hour hike through rhododendron trees. Once you reach Poon Hill, spend some time relishing a soothing sunrise and grand view of the western Himalayan range on the horizon.

The climate will be cold, so make sure you are wearing warm clothing. After enjoying the view, return to Ghorepani village and have breakfast. Then, trek to Tadapani to spend the night. The trail descends via lush forests and a few small villages.

Max Altitude: 3,210m / 10,531 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 13km / 8 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Now, you start trekking to Annapurna Base Camp. From Tadapani, descend to Chhomrong village, passing by settlements such as Chuile, Ghurjung, and Top Danda. As the trail continues, the density of the forest increases. The soothing scent of the forest and peace will let you unwind and enjoy nature.

Max Altitude: 2,170m / 7,119 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 10km / 6 milesTravel Mode: Walking

The trail from Chhomrong continues to the Himalaya Hotel. You will walk following stone staircases for an hour and descend to Chhomrong Khola. Cross the river using a suspension bridge and trek following another stone staircase for an hour. You will reach Sinuwa.

We will have lunch here. The trail continues through dense pine, oak, Bamboo, and rhododendron forests. It also passes by settlements like Bamboo and Dovan before reaching the Himalayan Hotel. The mountain views along the way are excellent.

Max Altitude: 2,920m / 9,580 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 11km / 6 milesTravel Mode: Walking

We will go to the Annapurna Base Camp today, but we have a long day ahead. Start trekking early and gradually ascend, leaving the tree line behind. Around two hours of walking from the Himalayan Hotel, you will enter the Annapurna Sanctuary.

The foliage gets much denser. Pass by the Hinku Cave and follow a rocky trail to Machhapuchhre Base Camp. From here, the trail ascends to the base camp of Mt. Annapurna. You will walk on narrow, steep, rocky tracks. At the Annapurna Base Camp, you will be surrounded by glaciers and towering mountains. Explore the base camp and walk down to the lodge for the night stay. The lodge is made off the glacier.

Max Altitude: 4,130m / 13,549 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 11km / 6 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Begin this day early in the morning with a surreal sunrise and a delicious breakfast. After that, get ready to leave the base camp and follow the same trail back to Dovan. You will trek past Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Hinku Cave. Likewise, retrace the trail back to the Himalayan Hotel and descend to Dovan for the night stay.

Max Altitude: 2,600m / 8,530 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 12km / 7 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Dovan to Jhinu Danda, we have a long descent. First, follow the same trail back to Bamboo and continue descending to Chhomrong village via lush forests. From Chhomrong, a different trail will take you to Jhinu Danda. The trail is covered with lush forests, and sections of it involve walking alongside forested hillsides.

There are natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda. They cost a few bucks to use. You will start walking to Mardi Himal Base Camp the next day, so a natural hot spring break before that will provide your body with much-needed soothing.

Max Altitude: 1,760m / 5,774 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 12km / 7 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Have a warm Nepali-style breakfast and start your journey to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. From Jhinu Danda, the trail descends to Landruk. In Landruk, you can see the traditional mountain lifestyle and mud/brick houses.

Max Altitude: 1,565m / 5,134 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 8km / 4 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Today you wil trek from Landruk to Forest Camp. Start the day with a delicious breakfast and slowly ascend to Forest Camp via a lush forest of birch, giant rhododendrons, mountain oak, maple, and hemlock.

Max Altitude: 2,600m / 8,530 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 9km / 5 milesTravel Mode: Walking

From Forest Camp, the trail ascends through woods to Low Camp. It is a sharp ascent via dense forests. You can see stunning views of Mt. Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli from the trail. From Low Camp onwards, the forests get sparse, and the mountain views are frequent and clear. The later part of the trail follows the Mardi Himal ridge and ascends to High Camp.

On the way, you may come across Danphe, the national bird of Nepal. The views of the mountains from the High Camp are spectacular.

Max Altitude: 3,540m / 11,614 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 horusDistance: 12km / 7 milesTravel Mode: Walking

Today, you will have a final significant ascent to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. You will start walking early in the morning, following the ridge of the Mardi Himal. The trail is steep and rocky, so you have to be extra careful. On the way, you can see a crossbreed of yak and cow, Dzokpo.

Upon reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp, witness a gorgeous sunrise and jaw-dropping views of mountains like Annapurna, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, etc. After enjoying the views, follow the same trail back to Low Camp for the night.

Max Altitude: 4,120m / 13,517 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest HouseDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 11km / 6 milesTravel Mode: Walking

It is the last day of the trek. You will continue trekking, following a different path that leads to Siding Village. You will descend via forested hills and uneven hillsides.

The walking part ends in Siding, and from here, you will drive back to Pokhara in a local jeep. The guide will drop you at your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day in Pokhara as you wish.

Max Altitude: 830m / 2,723 ftMeals: Breakfast and LunchAccommodation: HotelDuration: 7-8 hoursTravel Mode: Walking and Drive

On this day, you will drive back to Kathmandu. We will leave Pokhara early in the morning and follow the same highway back. The ride will be smooth, comfortable, and scenic. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, settle in the hotel. Spend the rest of the day in the city as you wish.

Max Altitude: 1,345m / 4,412 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 210km / 130 milesTravel Mode: Tourist Bus

Our adventurous trek has ended. Today, you will fly back to your home, or you can join another trek or tour with us in Nepal. Our team will drop you off at the international airport according to your flight departure time.

Max Altitude: 1,345m / 4,412 ftMeals: BreakfastTravel Mode: Private Tourist Vehicle
Cost Details
Service Details
What's Included
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • Three -night Accommodation (2-3 star) in Kathmandu with breakfast on twin/double sharing basis
  • Accommodation in Guest house/tea houses during the Trek on twin sharing basis
  • Three Meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners) daily on trek
  • Annapurna conservation entry and TIMS permit
  • 2-night hotel Accommodation (2-3 star) in Pokhara with breakfast on twin/double sharing basis
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • An experienced, knowledgeable and helpful local trekking guide
  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (Travel insurance company)
  • Sleeping bag, Duffle bag, and down jackets if necessary (returnable after the Trek)
  • Office expenses, Tax and VAT
  • Serve fresh fruits after dinner as dessert
  • T-shirt and trekking map
  • A farewell dinner
  • First Aid with an oximeter
What's not Included
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • International flights to and from Nepal
  • Travel insurance
  • Food (lunch and dinner) while in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Trekking porter/s (available on Add-on)
  • Your personnel expenses/shopping
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, chocolate bars and bar bills
  • Hot shower, internet, telephone, and laundry
  • Tips for the guide and staff
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section
Add-ons & Options

Hire a trekking porter

A trekking porter carries about 22-22 Kg, and we suggest hiring one for each of the two trekkers, which will cost US $300.00 for the trek.

Skip the long drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

You can skip the long drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by upgrading 30-minute flight at US $120.00

Skip a long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

You can skip the long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by upgrading 30-minute flight at US $120.00

Must-Know
Essential Information

Poon Hill, ABC and Mardi Himal Trek Difficulties

The ABC with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal has moderate difficulty, but you will be spending almost 13 days walking. It can tire you, but at the same time, you will also get used to walking 5 to 6 hours a day.

Every day will be adventurous and packed with new things to look forward to. During the trekking duration, you must adjust to the mountain lifestyle, which can be challenging for some trekkers.

As this is a long trek, we highly recommend that trekkers pack all the essentials for the journey. You will go above 4,000 meters twice on this trek, which is comparatively lower than the famous Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit treks.

Altitude sickness chances are low because you will spend a reasonable amount of time traversing low elevations and gradually ascending. Still, we highly suggest trekkers follow preventive measures. Beginner trekkers may consider the ABC trek with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal.

However, ensure you are physically and mentally ready to spend a long time in the mountains. If you are not an active individual, train for 4 to 6 weeks before the trek starts. Exercise, hike, and take long walks to build strength and stamina.

Guide and porter during Poon Hill, ABC and Mardi Himal Trekking

A guide will accompany you during the trek. He will trek with you and ensure you get the best mountain accommodation and service. We will provide a professional, reliable, friendly guide for a fantastic experience.

Porters are not included in our Cost. However, it is available at an additional cost, and you can add them on while booking the trip. You will also get a professional porter. Trekking with our team will make your ABC with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal safe and very immersive. You will learn a lot about the locals and the Annapurna region from our guide.

Note: Tips for guide and porter are not included in our Annapurna Base Camp trek with Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Cost. So, budget 15% to 25% of the package cost to tip them. It is up to your satisfaction level and wishes how much you want to tip them.

Useful Information for the Trekking

Useful information for Nepal Travel

Our FAQs
FAQs

You will start the day around 6:30 AM - 7:00 AM daily. Our goal is to be on the trail by 8:30 AM. It will give us ample time to enjoy the route and reach the next destination on time. You will have breakfast and dinner in the same lodge where you spend the night and lunch on the way.

The porter usually walks ahead of the group, and the guide is with you. In your day pack, pack essential things like a water bottle, snacks, money, documents, lip balm, SPF, etc. You will carry the day pack. There will be many ascents and descents during the trek, so we recommend getting trekking poles.

Trekking poles will help you maintain your balance on rugged terrain. Similarly, we recommend that trekkers wear trekking boots during the trek to avoid blisters. As it is a long trek, get a solar charger, download podcasts and music, and carry some traveler games to keep yourself entertained.

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