Combined Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Ridge
- 8 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Autumn (Sep–Nov) & Spring (Mar–May)
We combine two classic Annapurna routes, climbing from terraced hillsides through rhododendron forests to the high alpine viewpoints of Poon Hill and Mardi Himal.
At a glance
Trip overview
Our eight-day itinerary brings together two distinct trail systems in the Annapurna region: the sweeping ridgeline panoramas from Poon Hill and the quieter, more direct alpine ascent toward Mardi Himal. By linking these routes, we cross terraced farmland, stone staircases, and dense stands of rhododendron before breaking out above the treeline onto exposed ridges.
This trek suits walkers with previous experience in multi-day hiking who feel comfortable sustaining daily walks of five to seven hours on varied mountain terrain. We encounter settlements populated primarily by Gurung and Magar communities, providing insight into rural hill life and traditional farming practices below the high peaks.
Beginning at lower elevations along river valleys, the trail climbs steadily through the Modi Khola drainage basin and surrounding hills. As we gain altitude toward High Camp and the upper viewpoints, the physical demand increases, requiring steady pacing and appropriate layering for fluctuating temperatures.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Poon Hill Sunrise
We reach the 3210 m summit before dawn to watch the first light hit Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre.
Rhododendron Forests
We walk beneath ancient canopies of rhododendron and oak, particularly vibrant during spring blooms along the trail to Tadapani.
Mardi Himal High Camp
We spend nights perched on narrow ridges at 3540 m, flanked by vertical rock faces and sweeping valley drops.
Upper Viewpoint Push
We climb to 4500 m on the final ridge for unobstructed perspectives of the Annapurna massif and surrounding glacial cirques.
Gurung Culture
We pass through traditional stone-built villages like Ghandruk and Landruk, observing daily mountain agriculture.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Drive from Pokhara to Birethanti 1100 m and walk to Tikhedhunga 1425 m
Meals: B
Day 1
Drive from Pokhara to Birethanti 1100 m and walk to Tikhedhunga 1425 m
Meals: B
We depart our Pokhara hotel by vehicle for the short drive to Birethanti, where our trail begins along historical trade routes. The path follows farm settlements alongside rushing water before a moderate climb brings us to Tikhedhunga for our first night near local waterfalls.
Day 2
Trek to Ghorepani village 2885 m
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Trek to Ghorepani village 2885 m
Meals: B / L / D
Today we ascend the stone staircases through Ulleri village, gaining elevation steadily as we leave the cultivated terraces behind. We enter dense forests of oak and rhododendron, eventually arriving at the ridge village of Ghorepani.
Day 3
Morning hike to Poon Hill 3210 m and trek to Tadapani 2640 m
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Morning hike to Poon Hill 3210 m and trek to Tadapani 2640 m
Meals: B / L / D
We make a pre-dawn departure for the ridge of Poon Hill to view the sunrise over the high peaks. Returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, we then set off through deep forest trails toward the settlement of Tadapani.
Day 4
Trek to Tolka village 1630 m via Ghandruk and Landruk
Meals: B / L / D
Day 4
Trek to Tolka village 1630 m via Ghandruk and Landruk
Meals: B / L / D
Our route leads us downhill through terraced fields and into the traditional Gurung village of Ghandruk. After exploring the stone alleys, we continue traversing the hillside past Landruk before dropping further down to Tolka.
Day 5
Trek from Landruk to Forest Camp 2600 m
Meals: B / L / D
Day 5
Trek from Landruk to Forest Camp 2600 m
Meals: B / L / D
We leave the main valley floor behind and begin a sustained upward pull into quieter woodland terrain. The trail climbs beneath heavy tree cover, bringing us to Forest Camp for our overnight stop.
Day 6
Trek to High Camp 3540 m
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6
Trek to High Camp 3540 m
Meals: B / L / D
The path steepens as we move above the tree line, opening up broad vistas toward Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. We arrive at High Camp by early afternoon to rest and acclimate to the thinner mountain air.
Day 7
Day hike to 4500 m viewpoint and return to Badal Danda
Meals: B / L / D
Day 7
Day hike to 4500 m viewpoint and return to Badal Danda
Meals: B / L / D
We make an early start from High Camp, climbing the narrow upper ridge to reach the 4500 m viewpoint for close-up mountain vistas. After taking in the scenery, we retrace our steps down the ridge to sleep at Badal Danda.
Day 8
Trek to Sidding 1700 m and drive to Pokhara
Meals: B
Day 8
Trek to Sidding 1700 m and drive to Pokhara
Meals: B
Our final morning involves a descent following the river drainage down to the roadhead at Sidding village. From here, we board our vehicle for the return drive back to Pokhara.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
- Local tea house accommodation during the trek
- All meals on trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Pokhara to Nayapul transfer and Sidding to Pokhara jeep
- Experienced, licensed trekking guide and supporting staff
- Medical kit bag carried by lead guide
Not included
- International airfare and Nepal entry visa
- Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance
- Personal expenses such as battery charging, hot showers, and Wi-Fi
- Tips for guide and porter team
Before you go
Good to know
Altitude management
We reach a maximum elevation of 4500 m on this route, making proper hydration and steady pacing essential. Our team monitors all participants for signs of acute mountain sickness throughout the upper ridge sections.
Teahouse accommodation
Lodges along the trail are family-run and provide basic twin-share rooms with wooden beds and foam mattresses. Dining areas are heated by central stoves, though sleeping quarters are unheated.
Physical conditioning
Expect several consecutive days of sustained ascending and descending on stone steps and dirt trails. Prior cardiovascular training and stair-climbing practice will significantly increase your comfort on the trek.
Drinking water
Bottled water is available at lower elevations but becomes scarce and expensive higher up. We recommend carrying your own reusable bottles and using iodine tablets, chlorine dioxide, or a reliable filter.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy Hiking BootsEssential
Footwear
Must be broken-in with good ankle support for stone steps.
High-Loft Down JacketEssential
Clothing
Mandatory for cold evenings at High Camp and early morning ridge walks.
Waterproof Shell JacketEssential
Clothing
Essential protection against sudden mountain winds above the treeline.
Thermal Base LayersEssential
Clothing
Synthetic or merino wool sets for sleeping and high-altitude days.
Sleeping Bag (-15°C rated)Essential
Camping
Teahouse blankets are provided, but temperatures drop below freezing at higher camps.
Headlamp with Extra BatteriesEssential
Safety
Required for the pre-dawn starts to Poon Hill and the upper viewpoint.
Reusable Water BottlesEssential
Safety
Paired with purification tablets or a personal filter.
Valid Passport and Insurance DetailsEssential
Documents
Required for checkpoint registrations and permit issuance.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP)
PermitRequired entry permit for all trekkers entering the Annapurna region.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum altitude reached on this trek?
We reach a maximum elevation of 4500 m during the day hike from High Camp before descending to sleep at lower altitudes.
Do I need permits for this trek?
Yes, we arrange the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and required local documentation as part of your trip.
How difficult is the walking terrain?
The route features extensive stone staircases, steep forest ascents, and narrow ridgelines. Daily walking ranges from 5 to 7 hours.
Where do we stay overnight?
We stay in local tea houses operated by families along the trail, offering basic twin-share rooms and communal dining spaces.
Can I charge electronic devices along the trail?
Most tea houses offer electricity for charging devices in the dining hall, though operators usually charge a small hourly fee.
What kind of food is available in the lodges?
Lodges serve a variety of dal bhat, noodle dishes, soups, momos, and basic western items like porridge or eggs for breakfast.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 8 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
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