Poon Hill Mardi Himal trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Arrive in Kathmandu and one of our representatives will receive you and then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore the city where your hotel is located which is usually at Thamel – the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu where every needs and facilities for the tourist are located like hotels, pubs, restaurants, departmental stores, trek gear shops etc. Or you can simply rest at your hotel if you are jet lagged and get ready for an amazing Himalayan trek. Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu in a tourist bus (6-7 hrs)

Early in the morning drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara in a tourist bus. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes, offering glimpses of rural life, terraced fields, and stunning views of the Himalayas (weather permitting). The drive is around 200 kilometers (125 miles) long and usually takes between 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

 

The bus will finally arrive at the tourist bus park in Pokhara and you will check-in hotel in Pokhara. The rest of the time is rest at hotel or you are free to explore Pokahra if you wish.

 

Option: You can choose to either take a private vehicle for Kathmandu/Pokhara drive or fly to Pokhara from Kathmandu (25 minutes flight) Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara (Breakfast)

Day 03: Drive to Nayapul from Pokhara & trek to Ulleri (1960m/5 hrs)

Drive to Nayapul and start the trek to Ulleri. Enjoy beautiful mountain panorama of peaks like Machhapuchhre Himal and Annapurna massifs passing along bamboo forests and green Himalayan pastures. Then you will arrive Ranghia village and gradual climb upward will come Tikhedhunga. Then you will continue the hike along the suspension bridge after which begins a climb on stone steps to reach Ulleri village. Overnight at Lodge in Ulleri (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 04: Trek from Ulleri to Ghorepani (2850m/4-5 hrs)

After breakfast trek begins to Ghorepani from Ulleri passing along Nangethanti. Upon reaching Ghorepani which means ‘horse water’ as in the past the location used to be the place where travellers stopped for a drink and rest for their horses. The village of Ghorepani provides spectacular Himalayan views of the peaks like Hiunchuli, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, and the Annapurna ranges. Overnight at Lodge in Ghorepani (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 05: Hike to Poon hill & Trek to Tadapani (2500m/6-7 hrs)

Wake up early in the morning for hike to Poon Hill which is one of the highlights of the trek. From Poon Hill watch most spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas. Mountains seen from Poon Hill are Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Varaha Shikhar, Mt. Annapurnas, Machhapuchhare, and Lamjung Himal. Afterward hike back to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue hike to Tadapani passing along terrace farms and streams. Overnight at Lodge in Tadapani (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 06: Trek from Tadapani to Landruk (1430m/6-7 hrs)

The trail zig zags today to Landruk through thick rhododendron woodlands and oak and maple trees. Then the regular trekking trail is left behind and you will follow a less-trodden trail. The vegetation becomes more lush and green, and the environment more peaceful and isolated. Annapurna skylines dominates the trail. Then you will reach a beautiful Gurung community village of Ghandruk and yet another small village of Phedi. After crossing the Modi Kholi will reach Landruk. Overnight at Lodge in Landruk (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 07: Trek from Landruk to Forest Camp (2500m/5-6 hrs)

The trail today is a steady ascent through hamlets of pine and juniper to Forest Camp. Mountain views become more outstanding along the way. There are a limited number of lodges at Forest Camp which are basics though the environment is peaceful and isolated. Overnight at Lodge in Forest Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 08: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600m/5-6 hrs)

The trail today continues through the dense forest to High Camp from Forest Camp ascending upwards. The forest is fill with rhododendrons and trees covered in moss and lichen. Soon Low Camp is reached where you will have your lunch enjoying view of Mt. Machhapuchhre. After low camp, the trail ascends towards west with the amazing views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli Himal.

The trail goes through Mardi Himal Ridge with the sight of beautiful rhododendron bushes. the colorful Danphe can also be seen along the way. Soon High Camp is reached where lodges are bigger than those located at Lower Camp. From High Camp the views are superb of peaks like Annapurna south, Hiunchuli Himal and Mt. Machhapuchhre. Overnight at Lodge in High Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 09: Hike to View Point (4500m), then Return to Low Camp. 7-8 hrs

Wake up early in the morning for the sunrise view over the Himalayas from the Mardi Himal viewpoint located at 4500 meters. It’s a challenging hike walking on the narrow and rocky trails. But the view you will witness at the end of hike makes it all worth it. Mardi Himal is scared peak in Nepal and on one has climbed it due to it’s sacred value. En route also observe Nepal’s national bird Lophophorus. Afterward, return back to High Camp for breakfast then further hike to Low Camp for an overnight stay. Overnight at Lodge in Low Camp (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 10: Trek from Low Camp to Siding Village (1280m/4 hrs) & drive To Pokhara (3 Hours/ 7-8 hrs)

The trail goes thorough a steep descend from Low Camp to the village of Siding following the same route which we took on the start of the trek. Then you will leave the trail and walk through the forest heading to Modi Khola River. Descending further will soon reach Siding Village where we rest then drive to Pokhara. Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara (Breakfast in Siding Village)

Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara by a tourist bus. (6-7 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Kathmandu from Pokhara by a tourist bus retracing the same highway route which you took earlier. Upon reaching Kathmandu, check-in hotel and the rest of the time is free to explore or rest. In the evening is Farewell Dinner at one of the authentic Nepali Restaurant with a cultural show.

 

Option: You can choose to either take a private vehicle for Pokahra/Kathmandudrive or fly to Kathmandu from Pokhara (25 minutes flight) Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu (Breakfast)

Day 12: Final Departure

The trip concludes and our office representatives will take you to the international airport in Kathmandu to catch your onward flight to your next destination or fly back home. You need to be at least 3 hours prior to your flight time at the airport.

Thank you for visiting Nepal and we hope your Himalayan Holiday has come true. Have a safe flight back home!

If you plan to extend your holiday then other travel activities like jungle safari, rafting, mountain biking, bungee jumping etc are also up on the list.

EQUIPMENT CHECK-LIST

 

 

1. What is the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek?

The Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek is a combination of two popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers a diverse and scenic trekking experience, taking you to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint for sunrise views and to the less-visited Mardi Himal Base Camp, providing stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain ranges.

2. What is the starting point of the trek?

The trek often starts from the town of Nayapul or Phedi, which are accessible by road from Pokhara. Some trekkers may choose to start from other trailheads like Ghandruk or Landruk

3. Is the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek difficult?

The Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with a basic level of fitness. While there are some steep sections, the trail does not involve extremely high altitudes, making it accessible to a wide range of trekkers.

4. What is the best time to do the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek?

The best time for the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, making the trekking experience more enjoyable.

5. Are permits required for the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek?

Yes, permits are required for the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek. The required permits typically include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

6. What are the highlights of the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek?

The trek offers a range of highlights, including the stunning sunrise views from Poon Hill, trekking through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, exploring traditional villages like Ghandruk and Landruk, reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp with its panoramic mountain views, and experiencing the local culture and hospitality.

7. What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

Teahouses and lodges are available along the Poon Hill Mardi Himal Trek route, providing basic accommodation and meals. The facilities may vary, but they are sufficient for a comfortable stay.

Accommodation
While you are in Kathmandu, we opt to accommodate you in 3 star or 5 star hotels like Hotel Royal Singhi (3 star), Hotel Manaslu (3 star), Radisson (5 star), Yak & Yeti (5 star) or similar.

 

During the trek, you will be accommodated in a Tea House/ Lodge or Trekking Inn. Most of these lodges and teahouses cater good services and are equipped with modern amenities. We will endeavor to provide you the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.

 

Meals
We never compromise with the quality of food and the health of the trekkers as well as the crew members. Generally, we opt for the fresh and nutritional local community food available in the Annapurna Region. You could make your delicious pick from an array of traditional food like Sweet Potato, Buck Wheat Barley etc. . This way, you could not only get the real sense of the local culture and life patterns but also contribute to promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Besides, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads, Masala Curry etc. are also available in the restaurants for your retreat.

 

Porter and Staff Care
When it comes to high altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitude conditions, are provided with adequate clothing and equipments.

 

Any Experience Required?
There is nothing hard and fast rule about trekking experience. Any adventure enthusiast, with a generic physical aptitude can definitely relish the thrill of this trek.

 

Our Guides
Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you could actually connect with the nature, culture and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides, who are fairly literate, multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the Annapurna region. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining, but also equally informative.

 

Travel Insurance
It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both- medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you, makes your trip secure and hassle free.

The provided trip plan by Marron Treks is customizable but subject to unpredictable factors like weather, political unrest, and flight disruptions in Nepal. Delays or changes might occur due to various reasons, and Marron Treks will prioritize client safety. However, they are not liable for resulting consequences, striving to maintain the essence of the original trip plan. 

Cost Inclusion

• Airport pick-up and drop services.
• Hotel accommodations in Kathmandu & Pokhara with breakfast as per itinerary.
• Kathmandu/Pokhara/Kathmandu transfers by a tourist bus.
• All trekking accommodations with Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner at local lodges.
• Four seasonal sleeping bags (to be returned after trip completion) & Marron Treks 
  duffel bag
• A comprehensive medical kit (will be carried by the trekking guide)
• Pokhara/Kande & Siding/Pokhara transfers by private vehicle.
• Experienced Government licensed English Speaking Guide & Porter (1 porter for two people) including their food, accommodation, salary & insurance.
• Permits for Annapurna Conservation Area and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
• Farewell dinner with Nepalese cultural program.
• All government and local taxes. 

Cost Exclusion

• International airfare
• Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (USD30 for 15 days)
• Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Personal travel insurance.
• Emergency rescue evacuation (to be covered by the client's travel insurance).
• Other expenses of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower etc.)
• Cost of personal trekking gear and equipment
• Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
• Tips to guides & porters (Tipping is expected).