Annapurna Poon Hill and Mardi Trekking

Annapurna trekking at Poon Hill and Mardi



The Poon Hill and Mardi trek is an adventure on less-travelled trails than the classic Annapurna Base Camp. Starting in Pokhara, this itinerary will take you through enchanting traditional villages, dense rhododendron forests and spectacular terraced landscapes accompanied by a certified local Nepali guide native English speaker.

One of the most exciting stops is Poon Hill, a vantage point famous for its incredible sunrises. Arriving here at dawn, you can witness a breathtaking spectacle: the first rays of the sun illuminating the majestic peak of Dhaulagiri, tinging it with shades of gold and pink.

Continuing towards Mardi, the route becomes wilder and less frequented, providing an authentic and immersive trekking experience. The route culminates at the Mardi Upper View Point, located at an altitude of about 4,500 metres, from where there is the best view of the Annapurna peak and the sacred Machapuchare in the entire Himalayas.

We will take care of everything! We will pick you up from the airport, take you to a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, organise your transfer to Pokhara, overnight stays in the lodges, meals and transport with porters for everything you need during the trek.

Departure

Kathmandu

Trekking season

Apr – May
Oct -Nov

Duration

13 days

Difficulty

Easy-Average

Daily km

10-15 km

Max Altitude

Annapurna B.C.
4,130 mt

Next departure

April 2025

Our guide

Dalam Magar

Starting from

€ 1,449

Why choose Himalaya Exped for the Annapurna trek to Poon Hill and Mardi?

Himalaya Exped specialises in Himalayan treks and our guides have successfully completed the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp over 15 times, offering routes that directly explore the magnificent natural landscapes of this region.

With itineraries designed for the healthy and experienced hiker, these treks follow safe and established trails, allowing hikers to soak in the spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks.

Our experienced guides are not just escorts, but in-depth connoisseurs of each section of the route. They will guide you from Pokhara through lush forests and picturesque villages first to Poon Hill and then to Mardi. The route includes passage through the imposing peaks of Annapurna and Machapuchare, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains.

Your safety and an optimal experience are our priority: we manage every aspect of the trip, taking care of every detail to meet the challenges of altitude and landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine terrain. The journey culminates with two sunrises from Poon Hill and Upper View Point, ending with the return to Pokhara, offering unparalleled views of these majestic peaks, in an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Himalayas.

Annapurna Poon Hill and Mardi Trekking Itinerary

Himalaya Exped has created this optimised itinerary that ensures participants admire Annapurna from the two most spectacular points of the Annapurna Circuit, but in only two weeks, compared to the 22 days required to complete the full circuit, while maintaining adequate time for acclimatisation and exploration.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel, safety briefing and equipment check.

Day 02: Flight or bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Day 03: Jeep transfer from Pokhara to Tatopani.

Day 04: Trekking from Tatopani to Ghorepani (7-8 hours).

Day 05: Trekking from Ghorepani to Tadapani, ascending to Poon Hill to watch the sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South (6-7 hours).

Day 06: Trekking from Tadapani to Landruk (6-7 hours).

Day 07: Trekking from Landruk to Forest Camp (4-5 hours).

Day 08: Trekking from Forest Camp to Badaldada (6-7 hours).

Day 09: Trekking from Badaldada to Low Camp, ascending to Mardi Upper View Point (4,450m) to watch the sunrise over Annapurna (7-8 hours).

Day 10: Trekking from Low Camp to Sidhing (3 hours) and jeep transfer to Pokhara.

Day 11: Reserve day or explore the city of Pokhara.

Day 12: Flight or bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Day 13: Explore the city of Kathmandu.

Included in the Annapurna trekking tour package to Poon Hill and Mardi

As Himalaya Exped, we carefully select our hotel, internal transport and accommodation partners, and operate using the best equipment available to ensure the highest possible safety standards. The following are included in your booking package:

  • Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers from Kathmandu International Airport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara: 6 nights in 3-star hotels in double rooms (single rooms available upon request) with breakfast (including vegetarian and vegan options).
  • Connecting bus to Pokhara: included with a baggage limit of 13 kg.
  • Jeep transfer from Pokhara to Tatopani and back
  • Accommodation during the trek: Overnight stays in family-run lodges.
  • Breakfast: with vegetarian and vegan options, including tea and coffee.
  • Drinking water: 2 litres of boiled water in flasks or thermos flasks per day per member.
  • Guide: Certified local guide with excellent knowledge of Italian and English.
  • Porters: 1 porter for every 2 excursionists for the transport of personal luggage during the trek, maximum 13 kg per participant.
  • Porters: 1 porter for every 2 excursionists for the transport of personal luggage during the trek, maximum 13 kg per participant.
  • Permits: Permits required for trekking to Everest Base Camp, including TIMS and Sagarmatha National Park permit.
  • Insurance: Insurance for all Nepalese personnel involved.
  • Medical Kit: First Aid Medical Kit

Not included

Not included in the basic tour package, but we can integrate them or assist you in organising them:

  • International flight to and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal entry visa: ($30 for 15 days)
  • Additional overnight stays in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara: in case of early arrival or late departure, or in case of early return from trekking (for any reason) compared to the planned itinerary.
  • Single room in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara: You can request a quote for a single room with an additional charge of approximately $25 per night.
  • Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara: you can request a quote for full board
  • Lunches and dinners during the trek: You can request a quote for full board with an additional charge of approximately $30 per day.
  • Insurance: Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical, emergency evacuation.
  • Personal Expenses: Nepalese phone SIM card, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, personal equipment, souvenirs and miscellaneous purchases.
  • Guides and porters tips
  • Other expenses: Any item not listed in the section ‘What is included in the price’.

What you can expect on Annapurna

Our experience at your service to guide you to the Annapurna Trekking Poon Hill and Mardi

Certified Expert Guides over 4,000 meters

With Himalaya Exped, you can elevate your hiking skills through a trekking programme that includes high-altitude acclimatisation and fine-tuning your high mountain progression technique in challenging climatic conditions.

Our local experts share valuable knowledge inherited from generations of mountain guides, putting their experience at your disposal to tackle the Himalayas safely.

Safety is our priority

At Himalaya Exped, we require that all participants take out adequate high-altitude rescue insurance covering medical expenses, rescue and emergency transport above 5,000 metres.

All our guides and porters are insured: should the need arise, assistance will be quick and efficient, minimising risks and complications for you and your fellow trekkers.

Environmental sustainability by design

Himalaya Exped is strongly committed to environmental sustainability, emphasising the importance of leaving no waste and minimising the use of plastic bottles during excursions.

We promote family-run lodge accommodation, supporting the local economy and reducing environmental impact. These policies help to preserve the integrity of the Himalayan ecosystem, ensuring that its natural beauty remains unspoilt for future generations of explorers… or for your next adventure.

Photographic reportage

During the treks, we will document your adventure and share with you all the photographic material realised We ensure that every moment of the trip is captured, from breathtaking sunsets to towering peaks, so you can take home unique visual memories.

Our team of experienced guides will not only take you through optimal routes for photography, but will also help you improve your photographic skills in exceptional natural settings.

Recommended equipment for Annapurna Poon Hill and Mardi trekking

To safely face the challenges of high-altitude trekking, it is essential to be properly equipped.

  • Mountain boots or hiking boots: robust and comfortable for rough terrain.
  • Mountain socks: enough for a daily change.
  • Base layers in merino wool or synthetics: including jersey and long trousers.
  • Breathable intermediate jersey: for additional thermal insulation.
  • Technical underwear: suitable for keeping the body dry.
  • Waterproof shell with hood: for protection against wind and light precipitation.
  • Waterproof trouser covers: breathable and water-resistant.
  • Hooded down jacket: high thermal capacity for extreme cold.
  • Padded technical trousers: for complete protection against rain and snow.
  • Thermal jersey and underpants: comfortable for movement.
  • Thermal jersey and underpants: comfortable for movement.
  • Gloves with insulating liner: for colder and windier conditions.
  • Winter hat: made of wool or synthetic material.
  • Sun hat: to protect against intense sun.
  • Sun cream: grade 50 or higher
  • Sunglasses with UV protection: indispensable for strong solar radiation at high altitudes.
  • Hiking backpack: waterproof and light, suitable for carrying the necessary equipment (20-30 lt recommended).
  • Sleeping bag: rated for extremely low temperatures, down to -20°C or lower.
  • Headlamp
  • Universal plug adapter: for charging your mobile phone, camera, etc.
  • Power bank: no electricity is guaranteed in high-altitude lodges
  • Large mountain water bottle and thermos flask: at least 2 liters in total

Are you ready?

Download the checklist!

* Don’t worry if you miss something! It is possible to buy or rent any missing equipment directly in Kathmandu.

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F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)

For which people is trekking in Nepal on Annapurna to Poon Hill and Mardi?

Adult hikers in good health and with a spirit of adaptation.

How can I train for trekking in the Himalayas?

For trekking training in the Himalayas, one gradually prepares oneself to walk 6-8 hours in the mountains on routes of 15-20 km, with altitude differences of +1000/1200 m.
In addition, medium/intensive cardio training is recommended.

How long do you walk for and how much elevation gain do you overcome during the trek?

The average daily elevation gain is about +500 m, over a distance of about 15 km with 5 to 7 hours of walking and stops for lunch, visits and recovery.

Why are acclimatization days necessary?

Acclimatization to altitude is managed during the trek with scheduled stops at predetermined elevations, incorporating excursions with 500-700 meters of elevation gain and subsequent return to the lodge for overnight stays. This gradual approach helps the body adjust to the changes in altitude and prevents the onset of acute mountain sickness (AMS), which can cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping.

What technical difficulties might I encounter?

The paths to be followed do not present technical difficulties and are well beaten, sometimes on stone steps

How can I transport my clothes/equipment?

In Kathmandu, a special duffel bag will be provided for carrying luggage during the trek with carriers/yaks/ponies up to 13 kg

Should I consider a personal backpack?

Each participant will only bring a small backpack for whatever he or she considers useful to have during the day, such as water bottles, books, personal documents, basic medicines, sunglasses sun cream and a change of clothes. Access to the main luggage is guaranteed at the end of the day once the daily destination has been reached

Do you need special permits for trekking?

Yes, the guide will take care of trekking permits for entry into parks and protected areas

Is a sleeping bag necessary?

If necessary, it is also possible to rent locally for $3-5 per day (comfort temperature -20 degrees).

Where can I leave my flight suitcase?

Before the trek begins, it is possible to leave some luggage at the hotel, which can be retrieved on the way back.

What medicines should I take with me?

In addition to medicines for specific personal needs, the following are recommended: diamox to mitigate the effects of altitude sickness, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, intestinal disinfectant, antiseptic cream.

What kind of vaccinations are required/recommended?

There is no compulsory vaccination in Nepal, but anti-hepatitis, tetanus booster and tetanus booster may be recommended, to be checked with your doctor.

Is potable water available, or do I need to use purification substances?

Typically, bottled water is available at all lodges, and there are also points of sale along the trekking routes. Tap water is strongly discouraged unless you use a purifier like “Micropur” or similar. At Himalaya Exped, we are committed to providing you with 2 liters of potable water every morning for the entire duration of the trek.

What dishes does Nepalese cuisine offer?

The national dish is Dal Bhat, which is a type of lentil soup served with boiled rice and accompanied by various vegetables. It is usually served in generous portions, and a second helping is often offered.
You can also find pasta prepared in various ways, soups, noodles with vegetables, and eggs cooked in different styles. However, meat, whether yak or chicken, is not recommended due to its precarious preservation at high altitudes. Garlic is abundant in almost all dishes; if you’re not a fan, it’s best to request that it not be added.

Should I bring energy supplements with me?

Energy bars and water-soluble supplements are always recommended. If you have chosen full board, you will receive an energy bar every morning at breakfast.

Will I find comfortable accommodations at the evening stops?

Typically, the lodges are quite basic, though you will usually sleep in two-person rooms with a blanket or duvet provided. It is advisable to bring a good sleeping bag, which you can rent in Kathmandu upon request. Night temperatures can drop significantly, and the accommodations are generally not heated; often, a stove is lit in the dining area, but it is rarely sufficient unless you stay very close to it. Our guides will always strive to book the best available option and, where possible, accommodations with an en-suite bathroom.

What temperatures can I expect during my trek?

Temperatures vary significantly in Kathmandu, where you might experience warm days and cool nights. At higher altitudes, temperatures can drop well below freezing, depending on the season. In late autumn, it generally gets quite cold. At Everest Base Camp (EBC), temperatures could be as low as -10°C or lower, and even during the day, in the absence of sunshine, it remains cold. However, when the sun is out, it’s not uncommon to walk in a T-shirt.