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Poon Hill Trek vs Mardi Himal Trek
Poon Hill and Mardi Himal treks are two of the most popular short trekking destinations in the Annapurna Region. No matter which season of the year you are planning, you can easily consider any of these two destinations. Both treks have some similarities and some differences that make them unique. The starting point of these two treks is Phedi, which you can reach by taking a short drive from Pokhara. The route then diverges from here. For Poon Hill, you will drive toward Nayapul, and for Mardi Himal, you will get toward Kande.
The views you get from both treks are incredible. The peaks, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre, can be witnessed throughout the journey. However, you may be wondering what is best for you. Although both the treks are short, easy, and affordable, there are certain differences that can make your selection a little easier. To clarify more precisely, Himalaya Trip presents ‘Poon Hill Trek vs Mardi Himal Trek’ so that you can decide which trek is best for them.
Table of Contents
Poon Hill vs Mardi Himal Trek in Chart
| Features | Poon Hill Trek | Mardi Himal Trek |
| Highest elevation | 3,210 m (Poon Hill) | 4,500 m (Mardi Base Camp) |
| Popularity | very popular | newly open but shortly popular |
| Sunrise view | Best views | Good views |
| Himalaya views | Faraway views of Dhaulagiri to Annapurna ranges | Close-up views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre |
| Accommodation, Food | Better facilities | Limited facilities |
| Duration | 4 days | 4 days |
| Distance | 42.5km or 26.4miles | 41.1km or 25.54 miles |
| Difficulty Level | Medium | Moderate to Hard |
| Price (per person) | USD 299 | USD 310 |
About Poon Hill Trek
- Poon Hill is a popular viewpoint at an elevation of 3,210 m.
- It lies in the Annapurna region and is highly crowded.
- Suitable for all age groups and can be done throughout the year.
- Stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Vantage points for sunrise and sunset.
- Traverse through beautiful settlements of Magar and Gurung ethnicities.
- Adore panoramic views of snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Dhampus Peak, Dhaulagiri II, and many more.
About Mardi Himal Trek
- Mardi Himal Trek is at an elevation of 4,500 m.
- A moderate-level trek that is possible to do all year round.
- Nestled within the Annapurna massifs and beside Mt. Machhapuchhre.
- A newly opened trek that is quiet and less crowded.
- Best fusion of cultural diversity, rich biodiversity, splendid mountain panoramas, and charming terrains with scenic landscapes.
- Admire the towering snow-capped peaks and traverse numerous attractive ethnic villages.
- Enjoy the local hospitality and try local foods.
- Immerse in local culture, tradition, and lifestyle.
- Outstanding views of snowy mountains such as Mardi, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayas.
Poon Hill Trek Video
Features of Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Treks
Highest elevation
The highest elevation you will reach during the Mardi Himal Trek is 4,500 meters, which is the Base Camp. Similarly, with Poon Hill Trek, you will get to 3,210 meters, which is the Poon Hill itself. In comparison, the Poon Hill trek can be quite achievable for beginners with proper planning and preparation. The difference in altitude can make the Mardi Trek slightly more challenging.
Popularity
The Poon Hill trek was discovered dated back; thus, in terms of popularity, the trek is quite more known. It is also considered to be one of the most popular trekking destinations in the Annapurna region due to easy accessibility, shorter duration, and incredible views. Similarly, the Mardi Himal is newly discovered and is recently gaining popularity due to its feature of quiet and less-crowded trails adorned with unspoiled nature.
Sunrise View
No matter which trek you opt for, both of them offer you incredible sunrise views over the Himalayas. However, considered to be the best viewpoint, Poon Hill’s views are slightly more fascinating. You will get a better and clearer sunrise view is the prime highlight of the Poon Hill trek. From Mardi Trek, the sunrise view is possible, but it may not be as clear as that of Poon Hill.
Mardi Himal Trek
4 Days
Adventure Treks
USD 310 per person
3 Days Poon Hill Trek
3 Days
Trekking
USD 260 per person
Poon Hill ABC Mardi Himal Trek
12 Days
Trekking
USD 775 per person
Himalaya Views
The Mardi Himal trek treats you with close-up views of the snow-capped Himalayas, such as Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Likewise, the Poon Hill trek offers you stunning valley views and distant views of the Dhaulagiri to Annapurna ranges. Both treks provide the best mountain views in a shorter time, giving the easiest yet rewarding experience.
Accommodations and foods
As an organized and slightly popular trek with years of establishment, the Poon Hill trek is slightly better in terms of accommodations and food. Getting a variety of places to rest and try dishes is limited due to the newly developed route. For authentic trekking and off-the-beaten paths, the Mardi Himal can be quite a good option for you. But if you are looking for a slightly developed trekking route, consider Poon Hill.
Duration of trek
Both the trek, Poon Hill and Mardi Himal, can be completed in 4 days of time span. The trek follows the same route till Phedi, and then it starts to diverge. These are the two of the shortest treks you can choose from in Nepal, offering you a rewarding experience. In addition to that, to enhance the experience, you can merge the two treks and extend the journey for about 6 to 8 days.
Trek Distance in KM or Miles
With a similar distance covered, the Poon Hill trek is about 42.5km or 26.4 miles, while Mardi Himal Trek is approximately 41.1km or 25.54 miles from the trek starting point to the ending point. You can easily complete this trek in the span of 4 to 5 days based on your physical fitness and preparations. In addition to that, you will also cover some extra distance of above 200 kilometers from Kathmandu to reach the starting point.
Difficulty
The rough trails and several ups and downs with an elevation gain are difficult factors for you during these treks. In terms of difficulty, the Mardi Himal trek goes up to 4500m elevation, making it more difficult than the Poon Hill trek, which goes to an elevation of 3,210m. The Mardi cannot be a good choice for you if you cannot handle the higher elevation. But, both treks are quite achievable.
Price of the trek
The Poon Hill trek costs USD 299 per person, while the Mardi Himal trek costs USD 310 per person for a 4-day trek. For a budget-friendly traveler, the Mardi is a better option. However, if you want a well-developed route with good facilities available, pay a higher price and choose the Poon Hill Trek. But the views you get throughout are quite similar.
Mardi Himal Trek Video
Itinerary of Poon Hill Trek and Mardi Himal Trek
Poon Hill Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu or Pokhara – Nayapul drive and trek to Ulleri (1960m, 42km or 1 hour and a half drive and 11km or 5-6 hours walk).
Day 02: Trek from Ulleri-Bhanthati – Nangethanti -Ghorepani (2874m, 8km or 5-6 hours walk).
Day 03: Trek from Ghorepani-Poonhill-Tadapani-Ghandruk (1939m, 18km or 8 or 9 hours walk).
Day 04: Trek Ghandruk-Syauli Bazar and drive to Nayapul-Pokhara or Kathmandu (5.5km or 2-3 hours walk and 52km or 2 hours’ drive).
Poon Hill Trek Map
Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Drive Pokhara – Kande and trek to Australian Camp – Pothana- Deurali – Forest Camp (2600m, 33km or 1-hour drive and 14km or 6-7 hours walk).
Day 02: Trek from Forest Camp – Low Camp – Badal Danda – High Camp (3600m, 7.5km or 6-7 hours walk).
Day 03: Hike to View Point, Mardi Himal Base Camp, and trek down to Badal Danda (3300m, 14km or 6-7 hours walk).
Day 04: Trek from Badal Danda to Siding 5.6km or 4-5 hours walk, drive to Pokhara.
Mardi Himal Trek Map
Conclusion
Poon Hill and Mardi Himal are both the trek that takes you through the diverse landscapes and beautiful views of Annapurna Region. The involvement of similar days, shorter duration, and incredible views make this trek quite similar to each other. However, some other factors can make these treks slightly different from each other. The Mardi Himal trek distance is slightly shorter than the Poon Hill trek, but both treks can be completed in 4 days. Poon Hill trek is a classic popular one, while the Mardi Himal trek is shortly gaining its deserved popularity.
Amazing trip in Mardi Himal
I hereby express my huge gratitude to my trekking guide Sandeep, who did not only guide me through the whole trek in clear instructions and explanations, but also handle all the affairs in accommodations and meals. And he is a really nice and dedicated guy who kept sharing all he knows about Nepal. I also thank Harka for good communications on the affairs before and after the trip. They make this trip so wonderful and memorable!
Amazing experience !
Amazing experience! Our guide Sandeep was wonderful and took great care of us on the 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek. Communication with Harka and organisation is very easy! highly recommend.
初學者也能上手的美麗路線
我們選了Mardi Himal五天的行程，我和男友兩人之前都沒有多日爬山住山屋的經驗，但是Himalaya Trip會在我們到加德滿都的時候，先特別來跟我們做行前會，對過每天的行程、和提醒我們該帶什麼，我們忘記帶頭燈了，所以有去買，也好險有提醒，登頂看日出那天真的有用到。
全程帶領我們的嚮導Ramash，已經做登山嚮導將近20年了，經驗非常豐富，對我們一直都很有耐心，有他在，他會記得所有的路線、教我們該怎麼走比較省力、和很多山屋的人都很熟了，看他們互動很可愛，也謝謝Ramash幫我們打點好所有餐點、房間、記得我們喜歡吃什麼，時不時來關心我們有沒有吃飽、會不會太累，覺得非常被照顧，有他在真的很安心。
Mardi Himal路線很適合新手、不喜歡太多遊客的路線的人，全程的山屋在三月初的時候，很清閒，很多時候很安靜、有一些其他登山客、但不會到不舒服的擁擠。
一路上可以看到平常我在臺灣沒看過的驢隊、帶著貨物上山下山、也可以看到氂牛，或是看到當地的年輕人在登山客吃力爬山時，穿著拖鞋、手插口袋、蹦蹦跳跳的上山下山，好像非常簡單一樣，非常有趣，當然也有非常辛苦的挑夫，帶著20-30公斤重的行李上下山，總之一路上都有很多有趣的人事物可以看。
接下來是關於登山行程：
1️⃣第一天我們的領隊Ramash早上八點到了我們的飯店一樓等我們，接我們上接駁車，到了登山起點開始爬，第一天非常輕鬆大約爬2.5小時就到第一天的山屋了，中間還有停留大約1.5小時在其他tea house吃午餐，非常驚訝，沒想到只爬了一個早上就可以休息，而且第一天住宿好舒服，竟然還有自己的獨立衛浴，房間也很乾淨，我們吃了好吃的晚餐。
第一天的行程ramblr 紀錄： http://rblr.co/p2WeO
2️⃣第二天早上七點有住宿幫我們用早餐，八點開始爬，今天行程比較長，我們從海拔2100m爬到2958m，花了大約八小時（其中兩個半小時在休息或是吃午餐），Ramash都會來問我們的狀況來決定什麼時候吃午餐、什麼時候休息，不會太累，我覺得很剛好，就算我是初學者我也覺得因為途中幾乎每半小時就會經過一間tea house，可以休息、上廁所的地方很多，不用擔心會太累或是憋尿，晚上睡覺的山屋仍然有獨立房間、乾淨的床，睡得非常好。
第二天的行程紀錄： http://rblr.co/p2YQt
3️⃣ 第三天也是很輕鬆的一個早上就結束的行程，花了三小時，從2958m到3504m，下午還可以睡個午覺，再起床吃晚餐，也感謝Ramash在我們其中一位感覺有點高山症狀況的時候關心我們、給我們建議，後來狀況好很多就可以繼續明天的行程。
第三天行程紀錄：http://rblr.co/p2YQx
4️⃣第四天是登頂日，我們早上5點出門，要去view point看日出，天氣大好，萬里無雲，我們超級開心、也很幸運的看到了所有漂亮個群山，一切的辛苦都值得了！也很謝謝Ramash給我們加油打氣，在男友體力不夠的時候在他身邊陪伴，鼓勵他走到最後的View Point，終於看到漂亮的大景。
看完回山屋吃完飯之後再往下走，看體力狀況決定要往下走多久，我們是決定走到中午就停下來休息過夜，很感謝、也覺得能決定每天走多久很舒服。
第四天行程紀錄： http://rblr.co/p2aRU
5️⃣第五天我們一樣也是輕鬆的半天行程，2.5小時走回可以搭吉普車的點，再搭兩小時的吉普車回市區。一路上車程可以看到山邊的小村莊與田野，我覺得也是很重要的體驗，能看到平常在市區看不到的風景。
第五天行程紀錄：http://rblr.co/p2aRX
總結，很推薦新手也可以來，只要你能有足夠體力爬樓梯，這個路線不用攀繩、也不用攀壁，很新手友善，可以先請旅遊門診幫忙開的高山症的藥備著，有症狀再吃，其他沒有什麼好擔心的，就是爬樓梯而已。
Марди Химал украл моё сердечко!!!
Я побывала на треке Марди Химал с гидом Джей. Так как был не сезон я была одна с гидом. Это было самое безумное путешествие в моей жизни. Я никогда не ходила в походы, поэтому выбрала без сложной экипировки. Без гида я бы не пошла, так как не разбираюсь в лесах и горах. Похол бы не очень лёгким, но под силу даже не подготовленым. Организация была превосходной, я выбрала полный пакет, и жилье и еда (кроме напитков), на обратном пути был ремонт дороги и мы продолжи свой путь пешком, что было очень классно и интересно. Гид мне помогал, особенно с дыханием и скоростью и это очень облегчило мне подъем. Восход на 4200 был очень тяжёлым, но он стоил всех испытаний. Это невероятное зрелище которое открывается твоим глазам. Очень рекомендую данную компанию, заказала за 1,5 месяца, внесла предоплату 10% и готовилась к поездке. Если решусь ещё раз поехать в Непал то обязательно выбиру данную компанию. Спасибо вам за эти эмоции.
Excellent Company and Trek for First Time Visitor
First time in Nepal and my Nepali friend recommended this company. My guide Ramesh was amazing. I ended up being the only one in my group, but it was still great. Ramesh was very accommodating and allowed us to be flexible and join other trekking groups. Weather was somewhat cloudy but he knew when and where to be to get us the best views. We were able to stay out of the rain and wait out for the best views. I highly recommend booking with this company, as it was affordable but had excellent service. The hike was a lot of ascent but had great views and very different scenery. Overall excellent experience and felt that everything was considered, especially since it’s my first time in Nepal and I was on a tight schedule.
Incredible 5-Day Trek to Mardi Himal with Surpa & Himalayan Trip
I had the best experience trekking to Mardi Himal over five unforgettable days. The journey was breathtaking, with stunning mountain views, serene forests, and a peaceful atmosphere that made every step worth it.
A huge thank you to my guide, Surpa, and Himalaya Trip for organizing such a seamless adventure. Surpa’s knowledge, patience, and kindness made the trek even more special. He ensured everything ran smoothly, shared fascinating insights about the region, and always kept the energy positive. Whether it was adjusting the pace, finding the best viewpoints, or making sure I was comfortable, Surpa went above and beyond.
The entire trek was well-organized, from accommodations to meals, and I always felt supported. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for an incredible adventure in the Himalayas. If you’re considering the Mardi Himal trek, do yourself a favor and book with Himalaya Trip and ask for Surpa!
4 day Mardi Himal
My second trek with Himalaya Trip…..everything was super smooth and well organized. Mardi is a great choice for short trek. Thanks to Harka and my guide Surpa who was with me last year as well. Will definitely book with them again!
Mardi in November with Himalayatrip
My Wife and I have booked a 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek in November 2023. We met Harka in Kathmandu to brief about our trek. He is very kind and fast response. We have very good weather so beautiful Himalayas views from Mardi Himal Base Camp 4500m which is highest elevation of this trek. Our guide Surpa take care very well and booked nice accommodation all the places. We really enjoyed this trek. We highly recommend Mardi Trekking and Himalaya Trip. If you come back and we definitely use this company other trek in the future. Joseph
Epic Solo trek with Guide Porter
Just completed an incredible Solo Mardi Himal Trekking. Undoubtedly it was one of the best experiences of my life and unforgettable too. Despite its immense physical and mental challenges, the 5-day trek was fully worth it. Great deal with Himalaya Trip at reasonable prices. The company of friendly porter guide Sandeep, and his warm hospitality and attention to detail were impressive. Cherry on the top was breathtaking views, what more could I ask for? I am certain, I’ll be going through for next treks with them in the future.
Mardi Trek in July with Jay
My family, friends and I, just finished the Mardi trek from 11th to 15th July. Unfortunately the weather was not favorable but the organization was excellent. Mr Harka Gurung also organized the transfer from Katmandu to Pokhara by jeep, the road is not the best but it gave the possibility to see a piece of Nepal. Our guide Mr Jay was amazing, attentive to our needs and kept us entertained. We can say that we have found a friend. If we go back to Nepal we will definitely turn to Himalaya Trip. Luciana, Gianni, Samuele and friends.
Mardi Himal Trek
My family, friends and I, just finished the Mardi Himal trek from 11th to 15th July. Unfortunately the weather was not favorable but the organization was excellent. Mr Arca Gurung also organized the transfer from Katmandu to Pokhara by jeep, the road is not the best but it gave the possibility to see a piece of Nepal. Our guide Mr Jai was amazing, attentive to our needs and kept us entertained. We can say that we have found a friend. If we go back to Nepal we will definitely turn to Himalayan Trip. Luciana, Gianni, Samuele and friends.
5 Days Mardi Himal Trek 11th -15th July 2023
Me and my family and friends went for this trek from 11th to 15th july. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t good but the organization was perfect in every detail. A special thanks to the guide Jay, who was amazing, careful to our needs and able to make us happy despite the weather. We recommend Himalaya Trip for your trekking in Nepal
Amazing trip, with amazing views, and amazing Nepali people
Amazing trip, with amazing views, and amazing Nepali people! Long hours of daily trekking, in the vicinity of simple small hotels, far away from civilization but the relaxing ambiance and fresh foods sum up our amazing experience. Nice warm weather during the days, chilly weather (almost 4 degrees) during nights, and
an unexpected blizzard on High Camp forced us to descend. An unforgettable experience descending 1700m down with snowing and raining, and getting wet. A fresh getaway and a "cut-off" from the daily rush for a workaholic like me was refreshing. Mardi Himal Trek is for those who wish to be close to nature, need a break from a hectic life, feel freedom, and are open to any new experience in the lap of the Himalayas. 🙂 Ps – Big thanks to Jay, he was always close, always helpful and we felt always safe. PT
What a great trekking experience!
Fair Prices, Great Reviews, The Himalaya Trip was our choice for the Mardi Himal Trek. And we don’t regret it as everything was smoothly arranged by Harka, the owner of the organization. Also great information beforehand on what to expect, what to and not to do, and the use of gears which were fruitful.
Lucky and Glad to have Babu as our guide as he was a caring, interesting conversational partner, and extremely committed travel companion. Always concerned about our well-being and health. With him, we felt secure and well-cared for even at a high altitude. Babu is a very experienced guide and well-versed in the region. He took us to the best tea houses, and the best routes, and also shared many interesting details about life and hiking in the high mountains. Without worries, we were able to enjoy our trek.
Very much delighted to have Mardi Himal Trek
Very much delighted to have Mardi Himal Trek with the professional team and professional organization. Trekking itself is fantastic with the assistance of an excellent guide. Special thanks to Harka Gurung for continuous support throughout the trek, even at the places his help was there which were not his duties (transport Kathmandu-Pokhara).
Thanks to Harka for planning Mardi Himal trek in February
We had a great experience trekking the Mardi Himal trek! Thanks to Harka for planning the trip and to our excellent guide Jay for being patient with us!
Entertaining and Informative Mardi Himal Trek
A big shout out to our guide Jay and our porter Surpa for making our Mardi Himal Trek more entertaining and informative. Throughout the trek, valuable insights about the trails and mountains along with fun banter our 5 days were spent quite interestingly without the internet. Most importantly, they paced us so well that we never experienced any high- altitude sickness. Would like to trek with them again in the future!
great trip to Mardi Himal – Nov 2018
We had a great trip to Mardi Himal Base camp end of November 2018. Everything was perfectly organised by Harka and our guide Jay and porter Milan took great care of us during the entire trip. Would definitely recommend to book a Nepal trip with Harka and his team!!!
Overall, both treks are enchanting, and as per your preferences, you can opt for these treks to witness extra adventure and fun on shorter days. It is not necessary to consider a long trek for a beautiful adventure. A short trek is also the best option in Nepal, as you do not have to compromise on the views and beauty. It does not matter which of the destinations you choose; both treks offer you the best trekking experience in the Himalayas.
