If you’re planning a short yet stunning trek in Nepal, two names often stand out - Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill Trek. Both trails lie in the Annapurna region, offering breathtaking mountain views, warm Gurung hospitality, and a perfect taste of Himalayan adventure without needing weeks of hiking.
But if you’re wondering - “Which trek is better: Mardi Himal or Poon Hill?” you’re not alone. Many trekkers find it hard to choose between these two scenic routes that promise unique experiences in the heart of Nepal.
In this guide, we’ll help you decide which trek best suits your time, fitness, and travel goals - by comparing route details, difficulty, highlights, weather, and costs.
Whether you’re a first-time trekker seeking a moderate adventure or a seasoned hiker craving something wilder - by the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly which trek to choose.
Overview of the Mardi Himal Trek
Location & Route
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the newest and most rewarding trekking routes in the Annapurna region. Hidden just east of the famous Annapurna Base Camp trail, it leads to the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) - offering panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
The trek typically begins from Kande or Dhampus, gradually ascending through rhododendron forests and charming hill villages like Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp.
Trek Duration
The standard itinerary lasts about 5 to 7 days, making it ideal for those with limited time but a desire to go high into the Himalayas.
Altitude & Difficulty
The highest point - Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m - makes it a moderate-level trek. The trails are steep at times, but the altitude gain is manageable for anyone with basic fitness.
Scenery & Highlights
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Stunning close-up views of Machhapuchhre’s sharp peak.
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Peaceful trails away from crowds.
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Serene Forest walks and ridgeline panoramas.
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Authentic homestays and local teahouses.
The best part? The Mardi Himal route still feels untouched and authentic, giving trekkers a rare chance to experience the Annapurna region before it becomes mainstream.
Overview of the Poon Hill Trek
Location & Route
The Poon Hill Trek, often known as the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, is one of Nepal’s most classic short treks. Located in the lower Annapurna region, it starts from Nayapul or Hile, winding through Gurung and Magar villages like Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk.
The highlight of this trek is the sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m) - where golden rays light up the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, one of Nepal’s most photographed moments.
Trek Duration
This trek takes around 4 to 5 days, making it one of the most accessible short adventures from Pokhara.
Altitude & Difficulty
The maximum altitude (3,210 m) makes it a low-altitude, easy to moderate trek - suitable for families, beginners, and even elderly travelers.
Scenery & Highlights
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Panoramic sunrise over the Himalayas.
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Charming ethnic villages and warm hospitality.
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Stone stair trails through rhododendron forests.
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Vibrant teahouse culture and local food.
If you’re seeking comfort, culture, and convenience, Poon Hill is the ideal introduction to trekking in Nepal.
Mardi Himal vs Poon Hill Trek - A Detailed Comparison
|
Feature |
Mardi Himal Trek |
Poon Hill Trek |
|---|---|---|
|
Maximum Altitude |
4,500 m |
3,210 m |
|
Trek Duration |
5-7 days |
4-5 days |
|
Difficulty Level |
Moderate |
Easy to Moderate |
|
Best Season |
Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov) |
Year-round (best in Oct-Apr) |
|
Major Highlights |
Close-up views of Machhapuchhre, remote feel |
Sunrise view from Poon Hill, cultural experience |
|
Trek Start Point |
Kande/Dhampus |
Nayapul/Hile |
|
Permit Requirements |
ACAP & TIMS |
ACAP & TIMS |
|
Trail Type |
Less crowded, peaceful |
Popular, well-marked |
|
Accommodation |
Basic teahouses |
Comfortable lodges |
|
Viewpoints |
Mardi Himal Base Camp, High Camp |
Poon Hill View Tower |
|
Culture |
Gurung villages, highland lifestyle |
Gurung and Magar villages |
|
Access from Pokhara |
1.5-hour drive to Kande |
1.5-hour drive to Nayapul |
Which Trek Offers Better Mountain Views?
If you dream of standing face-to-face with towering peaks, Mardi Himal takes the prize. You’ll see Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) so close it feels within reach, along with Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Meanwhile, Poon Hill offers a broader panoramic view, featuring the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges - perfect for stunning sunrise photos but from a lower altitude.
In short:
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Mardi Himal = Close, dramatic peaks.
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Poon Hill = Wide, panoramic horizons.
Trekking Experience & Atmosphere
Mardi Himal Trek feels more adventurous and offbeat. The trails are quieter, offering solitude and connection with nature. It’s ideal for trekkers seeking serenity and a semi-remote mountain feel.
Poon Hill Trek, on the other hand, is a social trail - popular with local and international travelers, families, and school groups. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy meeting fellow trekkers and staying in lively tea houses.
Which is Easier?
If you’re new to trekking, Poon Hill Trek is undoubtedly easier. The trail is well-paved with stone steps, the altitude is lower, and lodges are more comfortable.
Mardi Himal Trek involves longer ascents, higher elevation, and colder temperatures near base camp - but nothing too technical. A moderate fitness level is enough.
Cultural Experience
Both treks take you through Gurung and Magar villages, offering rich insights into local mountain life.
However, Poon Hill Trek passes through larger settlements like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, where you can visit community museums, traditional houses, and cultural lodges - making it slightly more immersive for those who love local interaction.
Costs and Permits
Both Mardi Himal and Poon Hill treks require the same two permits:
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) - USD 30 per person
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TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) - USD 20 per person
Average Trek Cost (per person):
|
Trek |
Average Cost (USD) |
Includes |
|---|---|---|
|
Mardi Himal Trek |
$400 - $600 |
Permits, guide, food, accommodation, transport |
|
Poon Hill Trek |
$250 - $400 |
Permits, guide, food, accommodation, transport |
Prices vary based on season, group size, and accommodation type.
Accessibility from Pokhara
Both treks are easily accessible from Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital.
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Mardi Himal starts from Kande or Dhampus - about a 1.5-hour drive.
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Poon Hill starts from Nayapul - also around 1.5 hours away.
This makes both excellent choices for travelers wanting a quick Himalayan experience without long travel days.
When to Go
Both treks shine in autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) - when the skies are clear, rhododendrons bloom, and the views are unbeatable.
However, Poon Hill is doable year-round, even in winter, since it doesn’t go too high.
Mardi Himal, meanwhile, can get snowy in December-February but remains trek-worthy with proper gear and guidance.
Verdict - Which One Should You Choose?
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Choose Mardi Himal Trek if you want a slightly challenging, less-crowded, high-altitude adventure with up-close views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna.
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Choose Poon Hill Trek if you prefer a short, comfortable, and culturally rich trek with iconic sunrise views and easy accessibility.
If time allows, you can even combine both treks - starting from Ghandruk, heading to Poon Hill, and continuing toward Mardi Himal Base Camp for the ultimate short trek experience.
Conclusion - Book Your Trek Today
Both Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill Trek showcase Nepal’s stunning landscapes and timeless mountain charm. Whether you’re chasing high ridges or sunrise horizons, each offers memories that last a lifetime. So, ready to choose your Himalayan adventure?
Get in touch with Best Heritage Tour for expert planning, local insights, and seamless logistics.
Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 | +977-9810043046
Email: info@bestheritagetour.com | bestheritagetour@gmail.com
Info & Booking: www.bestheritagetour.com
Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal
Author: Best Heritage Tour
Date: 16th October, 2025
