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Alternative Treks to Annapurna Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is the most popular trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Every year, thousands of trekkers take this trek for the close-up views of mountains like Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. The route takes trekkers through diverse scenery and landscapes, and several villages. It is an ideal destination for both beginner and experienced trekkers.
But now, because of the heavy crowd on the ABC route, many trekkers seek alternative treks to Annapurna Base Camp that provide similar mountain views, cultural experiences, and adventure. Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Khopra Danda Trek are considered alternatives.
If you are looking for quieter routes and want to experience the same ABC trek, then you should definitely choose these routes to enjoy the natural and cultural richness of the Annapurna region.
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Why Look for Alternatives to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The number of trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp trail is increasing each year, as evidenced by 191,558 foreign trekkers in 2023 and 244,045 foreign trekkers in 2024. The trail is mostly crowded in peak seasons, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). In those months, teahouses and viewpoints fill up really fast. This makes it hard for trekkers to find comfortable rooms or, let’s say, any place to rest for the night. Trekkers also have to wait a long time to enjoy the peaceful mountain view that comes with.
That’s why many travelers now prefer alternative treks such as Mardi Himal, Khopra Danda, Gorepani Poon Hill, and Annapurna Circuit Trek. These routes provide the same stunning views of the Annapurna range but with more tranquility, local interaction, and authenticity in the Annapurna region. These alternatives help avoid the crowd and also support lesser-known communities. This gives a more personal trekking experience in the Himalayas.
Further, the Mardi Himal, Khopra Danda, and Ghorepani Poon Hill trek can be completed in fewer days (4-6 days). So, this makes it even tempting for those with limited time.
Best Alternative Treks to Annapurna Base Camp
Some of the best alternative treks to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal are Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Khopra Danda Trek.
Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a less crowded and moderately challenging trek in the Annapurna Region. It takes 4 days to complete the trek and is suitable for trekkers with basic fitness. The Mardi Himal Trek starts with a drive from Pokhara to Kande.
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!!!
Amazing Mardi Himal trek and awesome time with Harka and team
I would very highly recommend Himalaya Trip to anyone looking for a personalised, value-for-money tour guide for your trip to the Annapurna range in Nepal.
We communicated directly with Harka on email/Whatsapp, who helpfully recommended Mardi Himal based on a brief description of what we were looking for (of course you need to do your own research too, and provide information – length of stay, prior hiking experience, specific views – that is useful for Harka to recommend something tailored to you). We wouldn’t have known about this trek otherwise, as it’s less well known than Poon Hill, and it was exactly what we hoped to do in Nepal.
We didn’t feel like we’re just one of many, many tourists passing through. Hari and Shurpa, our guide and porter, made us feel like friends. It was fun to chat and equally, they left us to our own devices so we had enough privacy and independence on the trek. We also had a lot of flexibility to rest and decide how far we could walk in a day.
About the Mardi Himal trek is walking in the rainforest first, then the route opens to a mountain trail (crazy amazing views). Fairly manageable for novice trekkers who are moderately fit as you will feel like you are climbing upwards; although not ridiculously steep, you will definitely pant and ache. There’s limited boardwalk or stone steps. The final climb up to the Mardi Himal view point from High Camp can be challenging, as you will climb boulders and rocks. Worth the climb, lots of older folks and kids, so definitely doable and the views are 100% rewarding.
Solo female Trek to Mardi
I could not recommend Harka and his team more. I was a solo female traveler and I felt incredibly safe and well taken care of the entire time leading up to the trek and even after I left Nepal. I couldn’t decide on a trek and with Harka’s help, I settled on Mardi Himal. While it rained the entire time and we didn’t have any of the amazing mountain views, my guide Jay, was the absolute best and we had a great time. He took care of everything and made sure I never wanted for anything. I saw other guides along the way and trust me, Himalaya Trip go above and beyond. They are really a special crew of guys. I always felt safe and had so much fun the entire time.
I think my one suggestion would be that this itinerary could be shortened, especially if you are in good shape. A few of the days are really quite short and we still ended up with extra days in Kathmandu and Pokhara — not a complaint but merely a minor suggestion.
My experience overall was absolutely perfect and wonderful and something I will always always remember. Book with Himalaya Trip and don’t look back!!!
Mardi Himal Trek Experience
We decided to book the Mardi Himal Trek to get good views of the Annapurna region with only 6 days available. Harka and his team was very prompt and helpful throughout the planning process, which was why we chose Himalaya Trip. When we finally reached Kathmandu, we were welcomed at the airport with flowers and a private car to take us to Pokhara. During the trek, our guide was always attentive and provided good service in terms of ordering and preparing accommodation and food in the tea houses. He also brought fresh fruit to be served after dinner every day – and this was something special as we never saw any other guides doing this. In the evening he would also measure our oxygen levels to check for altitude sickness, and made us feel like we were in good hands the whole trek. We also got technical t-shirts as a souvenir for those who like that. Based on this experience, we recommend Himalaya Trip if you want to trek in Nepal.
Wonderful trekking again
Walked Khopra Danda and Mardi Himal with guide Hari and porter Ramesh. 4th time I walk with Hari and it was a great pleasure again. They really look after you, know about country and are fun to be with. Highly recommended!
Amazing trip – must do!
Amazing trip organised by Harka and guided by Ramesh. All clear and planned out well and really enjoyed the whole experience. Great value for money also, could not recommend more!
Highly Recommend Himalaya Trip!
Our porter guide Umesh took care of us well during our hike. Despite the not-so-ideal cloudy weather, we had a fun and memorable trip! The planning and hospitality from Harka pre-trip was also much appreciated! 🙂 You are in safe hands with Himalayan trip!
5 Days Mardi Himal Trek
The 5 Days Mardi Himal Trek at all was amazing! We had so much fun and at the end we were gifted with the beautiful panorama view at the mardi view point.
Min was a good guide and always in a happy mood/ good mood! The accommodation were all good.
Thank you again for all your support and also thank Min again for the last 5 days! We wish you all the best for the future and we make advertisement in our country for your company 😊💪🏻.
Germany, 16th Oct 2024
Exceptional trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp
The tour was exceptional and our guide was tremendous. Our guide was Ramesh and I can’t speak highly enough of him. The communication with Himalaya Trips was clear and concise. I would recommend this company to anyone wanting to do a trek in Nepal
New Zealand, Dec 2023
Mardi Trek with Guide Surpa
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!
Canada, 2024
Professional Guide and Service
Namaste
I just finished the Mardi trek with Surpa, thank you so much I’m very happy with all of the company and the guide, Surpa was perfect! Professional, take care of me every time and provide a lot of explanations. Thank you so much for this experience 🙏
France, 9th March 2024
Amazing & Unforgettable Experience
Just finished my Mardi Himal Trek for 5D4N last week with 2 of my friends and it was an amazing and unforgetable experience with generous support from Harka, Jay (guide) & Umesh (porter) from Himalaya Trip. I enjoyed so much the trails eventhough we had to pass so many steep stairs up and down which seemly never ending but with continous support from Jay our guide and pampered by the beauty of Himalaya’s landscape and peaceful ambience of the forest during the walk so we could passed it safely and happily. Everyday we had different beautiful and interesting view. We were so lucky at the Highcamp we could be the witness of the magical beauty of Annapurna South & Marchapurche that we could see so clear under the stars and full moon at night which that’s my favourite moment that I won’t forget. The next day, on the way to View Point, I and one of my friend were having light mountain sickness but once again with assistance and support from Jay, he with his professional experience ensured us how to manage this issue so calm and finally we made it to View Point and greeted with an extraordinary and increadible view of Annapurna South & Marchapurche that we could see so close. Goshh, I got goosebump and speechless. Overall I really appreciated and give credit for the great assistance from Himalaya Trip starting from Harka that always help and answer my questions with patience eventhough unexpected date changing at very last minutes, outstanding guidance from Jay for his patience and continuous support for giving us the best experience during the trekking, and Umesh who assist us to carry our stuffs. I feel like having a little family. Once again thank you Himalaya Trip for giving us best experience.
Indonesia, 2024
Mardi Trek with Ramesh
Hi Harka, Thank you so much for this amazing experience of 5 Days Mardi Himal Trek. We were so well taken care of by you and Ramesh dai. We will obviously be taking more trips with you in the future…
Big thanks also from Justyna!
We will be in contact with you soon again!
Thanks
Sarban
Netherlands, 10th Oct 2024
4 Days Mardi Himal Trek
Good morning Harka. Thank you for organising 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek for us. We had a great time and really enjoyed spending it with Ramesh and Sandeep. We appreciated them their knowledge with us and looking after us so well. We are in awe and still feel so blessed with the weather we managed to have at the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Thank you again, and please pass that on to Ramesh and Sandeep.
UK, 16th Oct 2024
Mardi Himal Trek in 4 Days
Thanks Harka, yes all good during my 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek. Thank you very much for organising, and for planning the route for my needs. Shupa was a fantastic guide, I will certainly recommend him to my friends, and hopefully will return for another trek in the future!
UK, 31st Oct 2024
Mardi Himal was awesome
Hello Harka
we are back from the track and everything was fantastic thank you very much ! Sandeep was very good, he is calm and sweet. I enjoyed his company. He is a good guide, attentive and shared interesting information. I was very happy to have a sleeping bag. I recommend them for all trekkers only because if people are cold they won’t enjoy themselves as much. 😃.
Warm clients are happy clients.
USA, 9th Nov 2024
4 days Mardi Himal Trek
Hi Harka Gurung! Our 4 Days Mardi Himal trek was lovely, Milan and Plekta were wonderful and we are so thankful to have them join us! Thank you for organizing this trip for us.
USA, 11th Nov 2024
The trek begins at Kande, with a gentle climb through forests filled with rhododendron and oak. From there, the trail gradually ascends along peaceful ridges, passing through small villages and stops like Australian Camp, Deurali, Forest Camp, Badal Danda, Low Camp, and High Camp before reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,500 m. Mardi Himal Base Camp offers the best view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is another popular short trek in the Annapurna region. This trek takes about 4 days and gives a wonderful mix of nature and culture. The trek is perfect for beginners and families.
The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek usually begins from Nayapul, which is about an hour’s drive from Pokhara. From Nayapul, the trail climbs steadily through the villages of Tikhedhunga and Ulleri, where you have to climb a long staircase. Then the path goes through forests and local villages to reach Ghorepani. The next morning, you hike up to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for a famous sunrise view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. After sunrise, the trail descends back to Ghorepani and then returns via the same route to Nayapul.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek encircles Annapurna Mountain in Western Nepal. This trek takes 10 days to complete and is perfect for adventurers seeking a high altitude trek. The trek starts from Besisahar, a town northeast of Pokhara. The route takes you through lush lowland forests and terraced fields as you gradually climb higher. Along the way, you pass through beautiful villages such as Chame, Pisang, and Manang. These villages are well known for their unique culture and traditions.
The highest point of the trek is the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, a challenging but unforgettable part of the journey. After crossing the pass, the trail descends through the beautiful Kali Gandaki Valley, known for its deep gorge and unique landscapes. The trek finishes in Jomsom or Marpha, from where you can fly back to Pokhara.
Khopra Danda Trek
The Khopra Danda Trek, also called the Khopra Ridge Trek, is an off-the-beaten trek. Takes about 6 days to complete. It is known for its quiet trekking route and stunning scenery with moderate difficulty.
The trek usually starts from Ghorepani or Tikhedhunga, following a less-traveled path that diverges from the popular Poon Hill route. The trail climbs through rhododendron forests and small villages like Tangting before reaching the ridge called Khopra Danda at about 3,700 m. From this ridge, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. A side trip to the sacred Khayer Lake adds a peaceful and spiritual highlight to the journey.
How to Choose the Right Trekking Alternative for You
Choosing the right trek in the Annapurna region depends on many things, like your fitness, experience, how much time you have, and what kind of scenery or culture you want to see. Each trek offers something special, so it’s important to find one that fits what you enjoy and can handle. Here are five simple points to help you decide:
Trekking Experience and Fitness Level
If you are new to trekking, starting with an easier trek like the Ghorepani Poon Hill is the best choice. It’s a short, beautiful, and easy trek. If you have done some trekking before and want a bit more adventure, then you can do the Mardi Himal or Khopra Danda treks. These treks are moderate challenges and give you wonderful views of the mountains. For those who have good fitness and plenty of trekking experience, the Annapurna Circuit trek is great for adventure. The trek is long, crosses high mountain passes, and shows a wide variety of landscapes.
Trekking Duration and Time Availability
The trek depends on the time you have. If you only have a few days, Poon Hill (4 days) or Mardi Himal (4 days) are excellent options. Both treks can be completed comfortably in a short time with amazing mountain views. If you have more time and want a longer experience, Khopra Danda (6 days) or the Annapurna Circuit (10 days) is perfect for you. The trek gives you more scenic views and allows you to learn about the local culture.
Scenery and Landscape Preference
Each trek provides a distinct scenic view. If you love peaceful forests, green hills, and quiet mountain views, Mardi Himal and Poon Hill treks are a wonderful choice for you. These treks take you through lush landscapes and calm paths. On the other hand, if you want to see a variety of landscapes like rivers, high passes, and alpine meadows, then the Annapurna Circuit is the best choice for you. Likewise, Khopra Danda gives some of the most stunning views, especially of the sunrise and mountain ranges.
Interest in Local Culture
The treks take you closer to local villages where you can meet the people, learn about their traditions, and enjoy warm hospitality. The Annapurna Circuit and Khopra Danda are known for their cultural richness. You’ll pass through remote villages and have a chance to experience the daily life of the mountain communities. If culture is important to you, these treks give more chances to connect with locals compared to the treks like Mardi Himal and Poon Hill.
Personal Preferences and Goals
Are you looking for a peaceful walk to relax and enjoy nature? Or do you want a challenging adventure with high-altitude climbs? The trek you choose really depends on your personal goals and interests. But no matter which trek you choose, the Annapurna region trek has amazing experiences that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Conclusion
Even though Annapurna Base Camp is the most popular, the alternative treks like Mardi Himal, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Annapurna Circuit, and Khopra Danda also give you beautiful mountain views, cultural experiences, and a peaceful journey with fewer crowds. Choosing the right trek depends on your fitness, time, and what kind of experience you want in the Annapurna region.
These routes are perfect, from easy short hikes to longer, adventurous treks with high mountain passes. No matter which path you choose, you can still enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and make unforgettable memories in Nepal.
