Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek

Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek

Poon Hill – Annapurna Base Camp – Mardi Himal Trek – 15 Days

Route: Kathmandu – Pokhara – Ulleri – Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani – Chhomrong – Annapurna Base Camp – Landruk – Forest Camp – Low Camp – High Camp – Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint – Badal Danda – Siding – Pokhara

Overview

The Poon Hill – Annapurna Base Camp – Mardi Himal Trek is a carefully designed 15-day private trekking journey combining three of the most scenic experiences in the Annapurna region: the famous sunrise from Poon Hill, the spectacular Annapurna Base Camp sanctuary, and the beautiful high ridge of Mardi Himal.

The journey begins with a direct trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a private jeep drive to Ulleri. There is no trekking on the first day, allowing you to begin the walking portion of the journey from Ulleri the following morning.

From Ulleri, the trail climbs through Ghorepani to Poon Hill before continuing through Tadapani, Chhomrong and the Annapurna Sanctuary toward Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters. After exploring the Annapurna Base Camp area, the trail descends through Himalaya, Sinuwa, Chhomrong and Landruk.

From Landruk, the route joins the quieter Mardi Himal trail. The trek continues through Forest Camp, Low Camp and High Camp before making an early-morning ascent to the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint at approximately 4,200 meters. After reaching the viewpoint and enjoying the spectacular Himalayan panorama, the trail descends through Badal Danda to Siding.

On the final day, a private jeep takes you from Siding directly to your hotel in Pokhara, followed by a farewell dinner in the evening.

This private trekking package is based on two people traveling together, with an experienced English-speaking guide and one porter.

Trek Highlights

  • Sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill

  • Beautiful Ghorepani and rhododendron forests

  • Scenic trails through Tadapani and Chhomrong

  • Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters

  • Machhapuchhre Base Camp and spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)

  • The dramatic mountain landscape of the Annapurna Sanctuary

  • Traditional mountain villages including Chhomrong, Jhinu Danda and Landruk

  • Peaceful and less-crowded trails toward Mardi Himal

  • Forest Camp, Low Camp and High Camp

  • Spectacular ridge walking above the tree line

  • Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint at approximately 4,200 meters

  • Close views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and surrounding peaks

  • Scenic descent through Badal Danda to Siding

  • Private jeep transportation from Siding to your hotel in Pokhara

  • Farewell dinner in Pokhara after completing the trek

Trek at a Glance

Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Trek Type: Private guided trek
Package Basis: 2 people
Maximum Trekking Elevation: Approximately 4,200 meters at Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint
Annapurna Base Camp Elevation: 4,130 meters
Trekking Start: Ulleri
Trekking End: Siding
Final Destination: Pokhara
Guide: Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
Porter: One porter for two trekkers
Approximate Total Trekking Distance: Approximately 120–130 km, depending on the exact trail and lodge locations

Important Note About Mountain Trail Distances

In the Himalayan mountains, kilometer distance is not always the most meaningful way to understand a trekking day. Mountain trails are very different from roads or flat walking paths. Steep ascents and descents, stone steps, uneven terrain, narrow trails, forest sections, river crossings, altitude, weather and other geographical features can significantly affect the time required.

For this reason, this itinerary emphasizes estimated walking time, elevation gain and loss, and the character of the trail rather than giving an exact kilometer distance for every day. Walking times and elevation figures are approximate and may vary depending on trail conditions, weather, lodge location, individual walking pace and other local factors.

Detailed 15-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu to Pokhara and Drive to Ulleri

Today, you travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you continue by private jeep directly to Ulleri, the starting point of the trekking portion of the journey.

There is no walking or trekking today, as the private jeep takes you directly to Ulleri.

Travel Time: Approximately 7–8 hours by tourist bus, followed by approximately 3–4 hours by private jeep, depending on road and traffic conditions
Walking: No trekking today
Overnight: Ulleri

Day 2

Ulleri to Ghorepani

The trek begins from Ulleri. The trail climbs through beautiful forests and traditional mountain villages toward Ghorepani. The route includes stone steps and gradual uphill sections, with increasingly impressive views of the surrounding mountains.

Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Approximate Ascent: +1,100 meters
Approximate Descent: -200 meters
Overnight: Ghorepani

Day 3

Ghorepani – Poon Hill – Tadapani

Early in the morning, hike to Poon Hill to enjoy the sunrise over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and surrounding Himalayan ranges. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, continue toward Tadapani through rhododendron forests and scenic mountain trails.

Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Approximate Ascent: +700 meters
Approximate Descent: -900 meters
Overnight: Tadapani

Day 4

Tadapani to Chhomrong

The trail descends through forest and traditional settlements before crossing local streams and climbing toward Chhomrong. Chhomrong is an important village on the route to Annapurna Base Camp and offers impressive views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Approximate Ascent: +700 meters
Approximate Descent: -800 meters
Overnight: Chhomrong

Day 5

Chhomrong to Upper Sinuwa to Dovan

After descending through the stone steps from Chhomrong, cross the Chhomrong Khola and continue through Upper Sinuwa and dense forest toward Dovan. The trail gradually enters the deeper Annapurna Sanctuary landscape.

Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Approximate Ascent: +1,000 meters
Approximate Descent: -700 meters
Overnight: Dovan

Day 6

Dovan to Himalaya to Deurali

Continue deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary, passing through Himalaya before climbing through forest and mountain terrain toward Deurali.

Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Approximate Ascent: +900 meters
Approximate Descent: -100 meters
Overnight: Deurali

Day 7

Deurali to Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp

This is one of the most spectacular days of the trek. From Deurali, continue toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks. The trail then continues toward Annapurna Base Camp, located within the magnificent Annapurna Sanctuary.

Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Approximate Ascent: +900 meters
Approximate Descent: -100 meters
Overnight: Annapurna Base Camp

Day 8

Annapurna Base Camp to Himalaya

Wake early at Annapurna Base Camp to enjoy the morning mountain scenery before beginning the descent. Retrace the trail through Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Deurali toward Himalaya.

Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Approximate Ascent: +100 meters
Approximate Descent: -1,500 meters
Overnight: Himalaya

Day 9

Himalaya to Sinuwa

Continue descending through the Annapurna Sanctuary, passing through Dovan and Upper Sinuwa before reaching Sinuwa.

Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Approximate Ascent: +200 meters
Approximate Descent: -1,000 meters
Overnight: Sinuwa

Day 10

Sinuwa to Chhomrong to Jhinu Danda to Landruk

The trail climbs back toward Chhomrong before descending toward Jhinu Danda. From Jhinu Danda, continue toward Landruk through beautiful hill landscapes and traditional villages.

Walking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Approximate Ascent: +700 meters
Approximate Descent: -1,000 meters
Overnight: Landruk

Day 11

Landruk to Forest Camp

Today, leave the main Annapurna Base Camp route and join the quieter Mardi Himal trekking trail. The trail climbs gradually through forest toward Forest Camp, with peaceful mountain surroundings.

Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Approximate Ascent: +1,000 meters
Approximate Descent: -200 meters
Overnight: Forest Camp

Day 12

Forest Camp to Low Camp

The trail continues through beautiful forest toward Low Camp. As you gain elevation, the forest gradually becomes more open and mountain views become increasingly impressive.

Walking Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Approximate Ascent: +500 meters
Approximate Descent: -100 meters
Overnight: Low Camp

Day 13

Low Camp to High Camp

Today, the trail continues toward High Camp. The forest gradually gives way to open alpine terrain, and the views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and the surrounding Himalayan peaks become increasingly spectacular.

Walking Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Approximate Ascent: +700 meters
Approximate Descent: -100 meters
Overnight: High Camp

Day 14: High Camp – Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint – Badal Danda

Elevation:

  • High Camp – approximately 3,550–3,600 m / 11,647–11,811 ft

  • Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint – approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

  • Badal Danda – approximately 3,210 m / 10,531 ft

Walking Time: Approximately 5–7 hours, depending on the highest viewpoint reached and trail conditions
Approximate Ascent: Approximately +600–700 m to the Upper Viewpoint
Approximate Descent: Approximately -900–1,000 m
Overnight: Badal Danda

Highlight: Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint

An early morning start takes you from High Camp toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint. The trail follows the high ridge above High Camp, with increasingly open alpine landscapes and spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Weather permitting, the Upper Viewpoint offers panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and other peaks of the Annapurna range.

The Upper Viewpoint is generally around 4,200 meters. A higher continuation toward Mardi Himal Base Camp, approximately 4,500 meters, may be considered only if weather, trail and snow conditions are suitable and the guide considers it safe and appropriate.

After enjoying the magnificent Himalayan scenery, you retrace your route and descend along the ridge toward Badal Danda. The trail gradually leaves the higher alpine landscape and enters more sheltered terrain.

You will spend the night at Badal Danda, enjoying the peaceful mountain surroundings and, weather permitting, beautiful views across the Himalayas.

This is one of the most rewarding days of the Mardi Himal section, combining an early-morning high-altitude viewpoint excursion with spectacular mountain scenery before a gradual descent to Badal Danda.

Day 15: Badal Danda – Low Camp – Siding – Pokhara

Date: November 26, 2026

Elevation:

  • Badal Danda – approximately 3,210 m / 10,531 ft

  • Low Camp – approximately 2,970 m / 9,744 ft

  • Siding – approximately 1,700–1,850 m / 5,577–6,070 ft

  • Pokhara – approximately 822 m / 2,697 ft

Walking Time: Approximately 4–5 hours
Trekking Descent: Approximately -1,400–1,500 m
Transportation: Private Jeep from Siding to Pokhara
Driving Time: Approximately 3–4 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions
Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

After breakfast at Badal Danda, you begin the final trekking day of your journey. The trail descends gradually through the beautiful mountain landscape toward Low Camp, where you will have lunch and take a well-deserved break.

From Low Camp, the trail continues downhill through forested sections and local mountain settlements toward Siding, the final trekking point of the Mardi Himal route.

Upon reaching Siding, a private jeep will be waiting to drive you toward Pokhara. The journey provides a comfortable transition from the mountain trails back to the lakeside city.

After arriving in Pokhara, you will be transferred directly to your hotel for check-in. You can then relax, refresh and enjoy some free time in the peaceful atmosphere of Pokhara.

In the evening, we will organize a special farewell dinner in Pokhara to celebrate the successful completion of your Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal trekking journey.

With the final descent from Badal Danda to Siding and the scenic drive back to Pokhara, your trekking adventure comes to a memorable close. It is a wonderful opportunity to look back on the mountain trails, Himalayan views, local villages and unforgettable experiences shared throughout the journey.

Private Guided Trekking Package

Price: USD 1,070 per person (On based of minimu Two Trekkers in the Group)

Total Package Price: USD 2,140 for 2 people

The above price is based on two people traveling together on a private guided trekking package.

This private trekking experience is designed to provide personalized service and professional support throughout the Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal journey.

The package includes one experienced English-speaking trekking guide and one porter for two trekkers to carry the guests' main trekking luggage.

Package Includes

  1. Experienced, English-speaking private trekking guide.

  2. Trekking porter to carry your main luggage: one porter for two trekkers.

  3. Guide's and porter's salary, meals, accommodation, insurance and transportation.

  4. One large-size trekking duffel bag with our company name and logo, provided for keeping your main personal trekking belongings during the trek. The duffel bag will be carried by our porter.

  5. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

  6. TIMS / trekking registration.

  7. Poon Hill viewpoint fee.

  8. Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

  9. Private jeep transportation from Pokhara to Ulleri, the starting point of the trek.

  10. Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking portion of the trip.

  11. Seasonal fruits during the trek.

  12. One cup of tea or coffee, up to three times per day, during the trek.

  13. Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.

  14. Sleeping bag for use during the trek.

  15. Trekking poles for use during the trek.

  16. Crampons, if required, for use during the trek.

  17. Private jeep transportation from Siding, the trekking end point, to your hotel in Pokhara.

  18. Necessary company arrangements and professional trekking services throughout the trip.

  19. Trekking completion certificate.

Trekking Equipment Provided

For your comfort and convenience, sleeping bags, trekking poles and crampons, if required, are provided by our company for use during the trek.

These items are provided for the duration of the trek and should be returned to the company after completing the trek.

Package Excludes

  1. Bottled drinking water and boiled drinking water.

  2. Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee such as espresso, cappuccino, latte and similar beverages.

  3. Hot showers, Wi-Fi/internet and battery charging at mountain teahouses.

  4. Personal expenses not specifically mentioned under the "Package Includes" section.

  5. Personal travel insurance.

  6. Emergency medical evacuation, if required. Any emergency evacuation costs must be covered by the client's travel insurance or paid directly by the client if not covered by insurance.

  7. Tips and gratuities for the trekking guide and porter.

  8. Any additional expenses arising from circumstances beyond the company's control, including unexpected transportation, accommodation or other costs not specifically mentioned under the "Package Includes" section.

Tipping for Guide and Porter – Important Note

Tipping is a customary part of trekking culture and tradition in Nepal. At the end of the trek, guests are encouraged to offer a gratuity directly to their trekking guide and porter in appreciation of their hard work, dedication, care and professional service throughout the journey.

Tipping is not included in the trekking package price. It is given directly to the guide and porter at the end of the trek and is generally based on the quality of service, the difficulty and duration of the trek, and the guest’s personal satisfaction. There is no fixed or compulsory tipping amount.

Your generosity is sincerely appreciated by our trekking team and is a meaningful way to recognize the people who support you throughout your Himalayan journey.

For more information about tipping practices and recommended amounts in Nepal, please visit our dedicated tipping information page:

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/tipping-trekking-guides-in-nepal

Important Information

Trekking conditions in the Himalayas can change due to weather, trail conditions, local circumstances and other factors. Walking times, elevation figures and the exact trail followed may therefore vary.

This itinerary is designed to provide a balanced combination of Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal while allowing the trek to finish conveniently in Pokhara.

The guide will manage the daily pace, route and schedule according to the actual conditions encountered during the trek, while keeping the safety and well-being of the trekkers as the highest priority.

Important Note About Mountain Trail Distances

In the Himalayan mountains, kilometer distance is not always the most meaningful way to understand a trekking day. Mountain trails are very different from roads or flat walking paths. Steep ascents and descents, stone steps, uneven terrain, narrow trails, river crossings, forest sections, altitude, weather and other geographical features can significantly affect the time required to complete a particular section.

For this reason, this itinerary emphasizes estimated walking time, elevation and the character of the trail rather than presenting an exact kilometer distance for every day.

Walking times and elevation figures are approximate and may vary according to the exact trail followed, weather, trail conditions, accommodation location, trekking pace and other conditions in the mountains.

Your guide will assess the conditions each day and manage the walking pace and route accordingly.

Important Note About the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint

The Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint is approximately 4,200 meters above sea level and is the highest planned point of this itinerary.

The higher section toward Mardi Himal Base Camp, at approximately 4,500 meters, is beyond the standard Upper Viewpoint route and is not included as a guaranteed part of this itinerary. Any continuation beyond the Upper Viewpoint would depend on weather, snow, trail conditions, available time and the physical condition of the trekkers.

Reaching the highest possible point is not the priority. Safety, proper pacing and an enjoyable trekking experience always come first. The guide will assess the conditions on the day and make the appropriate decision regarding any additional section beyond the planned Upper Viewpoint.

Approximate Total Walking Distance

For general reference, the complete trekking route from Ulleri through Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Landruk, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint area and Siding is approximately 120–130 km.

This figure is provided only as an approximate reference. Actual trail distance can vary because Himalayan trekking routes do not always follow a fixed or uniform path. The exact distance may change according to the trail followed, accommodation location, viewpoint conditions, weather, trail conditions and local circumstances.

Trekking Route Summary

Kathmandu → Pokhara → Ulleri → Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani → Chhomrong → Dovan → Himalaya → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp → Himalaya → Sinuwa → Chhomrong → Jhinu Danda → Landruk → Forest Camp → Low Camp → High Camp → Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint → Badal Danda → Siding → Pokhara

This journey combines the Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal trekking routes into one extended private trekking experience.

The trek officially ends at Siding. From Siding, private transportation will be arranged to your hotel in Pokhara. A farewell dinner will be arranged in Pokhara at the end of the trekking journey.

Private Trekking Service

This package is designed for travelers who prefer a private guided trek with their own dedicated trekking guide rather than joining a large group.

Our aim is to provide a safe, comfortable and well-organized Himalayan trekking experience with attentive service throughout the journey.

Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. provides private guided trekking services in the Himalayas with experienced local guides and carefully arranged transportation, accommodation, permits and trekking support.

Our trekking guides are experienced, professional, English-speaking and familiar with the trekking routes included in this itinerary. The guide will remain responsible for coordinating the daily trekking arrangements and supporting the trekkers throughout the journey.

Additional Information

Trekking Equipment List

For detailed information about recommended trekking clothing, equipment and personal packing requirements, please visit:

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/trekking-equipment-list-in-details

Tourist Visa Information

For updated information about Nepal tourist visa fees and related requirements, please visit:

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/nepal-visa-fee-updated

24/7 Customer Support

For assistance before, during or after your trip, please visit:

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/customer-support

Customer Notice & Acknowledgment

By confirming your booking with Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd., you acknowledge that you have read, understood and agreed to the applicable information, policies and terms related to your trekking package.

Please review the following:

We are dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable and well-organized Himalayan trekking experience.

Have a wonderful trekking journey!

Contact Information

Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd.

Your Hiking Guide in the Himalayas

Nepal Government Company Registration No.: 215808/75/076

Kumarigal-7, Bouddha, Kathmandu, Nepal

Tel/WhatsApp: +977 9808717598

Email: nepalhimalayanhiking@gmail.com

Website: www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com