Treks

Mardi Himal Trek Days 6 Trip Grade Moderate Maximum Altitude 4,500 m (Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint) Starts Pokhara (820 m) → drive to Kande (1,770 m) Ends Dhampus (1,650 m) → drive back to Pokhara (820 m) Best Time Autumn (Late September–Mid November) Spring (Late March–Early May Country Nepal Activity Trekking Trip Price: US $ 1,190 per person Click here The Mardi Himal Trek is a six-day journey through the Annapurna foothills that begins and ends near Pokhara, offering trekkers a high-mountain experience without the crowds of its more famous neighbors. Starting from the terraced valley of Kande, you climb through oak and rhododendron forests to reach a series of camps—Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp—each progressively higher and more remote. The highlight of the trek is the early-morning ascent from High Camp to the Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint at approximately 4,500 meters, where you are rewarded with an unobstructed panorama of the Annapurna South massif (7,219 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and the snowy ridges of Mardi Himal (5,587 m) itself. After soaking in these vistas, you retrace your steps back through lush forests and inviting Gurung villages before returning to Pokhara. This relatively short route—just under a week from start to finish—combines steep alpine ascents with cultural encounters, making it an ideal moderate-difficulty trek for those who want high-altitude scenery on a tighter schedule. Difficulty and Altitude ProfileMardi Himal is graded as a moderate trek: although the elevations involved are significant, there are no technical rock scrambles or exposed ridgelines that require specialized mountaineering skills. You begin at roughly 1,770 m (Kande) and reach a maximum of around 4,500 m at the Base Camp viewpoint—an overall altitude gain of 2,730 m. The most strenuous sections occur on Days 2 and 4, when you ascend from Forest Camp (2,500 m) to Low Camp (3,050 m) in about five hours, and then from Low Camp to High Camp (3,550 m). On Day 4, you leave High Camp well before dawn to climb an additional 950 m up to the Base Camp viewpoint, often over rocky, uneven terrain and loose scree. Because of this rapid elevation gain, a night at Low Camp followed by rest and acclimatization in High Camp is crucial. Weather can be unpredictable above 3,000 m: early-morning frost, afternoon clouds, or light snow are all possible even in the shoulder seasons. Overall, you should be comfortable walking six hours per day on uneven trails, with occasional steep pitches and altitude thinning the air above 3,500 m. Accommodation and FacilitiesThroughout the trek, accommodation is in locally operated teahouses—simple lodges made of stone and wood with corrugated-iron roofs. At Forest Camp (2,500 m) and Low Camp (3,050 m), facilities include basic dormitory-style rooms, communal dining areas heated by small wood-stoves, and eastern-style squat toilets. By the time you reach High Camp (3,550 m), lodges become more rudimentary: rooms are smaller, heating may be limited to one or two small stoves, and toilets often consist of pit latrines a short walk away from the main building. Seasonal menus rely heavily on dhal bhat (lentil-rice), noodle soups, and Tibetan dishes such as thenthuk; you can expect to pay premium prices (up to 800–1,000 NPR) for meals at High Camp due to the cost of transporting supplies. Hot showers are unavailable above Low Camp, and potable water must either be boiled or treated with purification tablets. Itinerary planners build two nights at High Camp to allow for acclimatization, and a final night at Forest Camp when descending, so that you move at a comfortable pace rather than rushing. Highlights Itinerary Cost Details Base Camp Viewpoint (4,500 m): Dawn summit on Day 4 delivers unobstructed vistas of Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m). The sunrise light plays off jagged ridges in a dramatic panorama. Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre: Visible from Australian Camp (1,930 m) and Forest Camp. On clear mornings, Machhapuchhre casts its shadow onto adjacent ridges. Dense Rhododendron & Fern Forests: From Kande up to Forest Camp, the trail winds under vibrant spring blooms and moss‐covered oaks. Gurung Villages: Dhampus (1,650 m) and Landruk (1,565 m) showcase traditional stone houses, terraced fields, and prayer flags—an immersive glimpse into local mountain life. Alpine Meadows: Between Low Camp and High Camp, you cross open grassy slopes where yaks graze in summer, sprinkled with wildflowers in late spring. Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 Day 1: Pokhara (820 m) → Kande (1,770 m) → Australian Camp (1,930 m) → Forest Camp (2,500 m)You depart Pokhara early in the morning by jeep or taxi and drive 20 km uphill to Kande (1,770 m). From Kande, a well-marked stone-and-dirt trail climbs gently through terraced fields and pine forests for about two hours until you reach Australian Camp (1,930 m), where you pause for tea and panoramic views of the Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Continuing another two hours on a narrow forest path—winding through rhododendron and oak trees—you arrive at Forest Camp (2,500 m) by mid-afternoon. Here, you stay in a basic teahouse nestled under dense oak canopy, with no further uphill sections to help you acclimatize. Day 2: Forest Camp (2,500 m) → Low Camp (3,050 m)On Day 2, after breakfast, you follow a steep, zigzagging path that climbs through moss-covered rhododendron groves and towering firs. The ascent takes roughly five hours. Along this trail, intermittent viewpoints offer glimpses of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre behind dense forest. You arrive at Low Camp (3,050 m) in early afternoon, where small stone-and-wood teahouses provide simple meals. From Low Camp’s small clearing, you can see the shadow of Machhapuchhre and enjoy cooler temperatures at this higher elevation. Day 3: Low Camp (3,050 m) → High Camp (3,550 m)Day 3 begins with a shorter uphill of approximately two to three hours. The trail rises out of the rhododendron forest and into sparse alpine scrub, and the trees give way to more open views. By late

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek Days 5 Trip Grade Easy to Moderate Maximum Altitude 3,210 m (Poon Hill) Starts Pokhara Ends Pokhara Best Time Sept–Nov & Mar–May Country Nepal Activity Short Trek & Mountain Panorama Trip Price: US $ 990 per person Click here The Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek is a perfect Himalayan experience for those who want big views in a short timeframe. It offers breathtaking mountain panoramas, lush forests, and traditional Gurung villages—without requiring high-altitude acclimatization or weeks on the trail. Starting just a short drive from Pokhara, this loop trek takes you through rhododendron jungles, stone staircases, and ridge-top settlements to Poon Hill (3,210 m)—a viewpoint famous for its 360° sunrise view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Nilgiri ranges. Despite its popularity, the trail retains a charming, local feel—especially in villages like Ghandruk and Tadapani, where you’ll meet friendly Gurung and Magar communities known for their bravery as Gurkha soldiers. The region also bursts into color during spring with blooming rhododendrons and is known for warm hospitality, comfortable teahouses, and easy access. With a gentle pace and options for customisation, this trek is ideal for families, beginners, and time-bound travelers looking for a rewarding Himalayan adventure. Highlights Itinerary Cost Details Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 m): Iconic panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri (7th highest peak), and Machhapuchhre. Charming Villages: Explore traditional Magar and Gurung culture in Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Rhododendron Forests: Spring (March–April) brings fiery blooms across dense alpine forests. Accessible Route: No flights needed—easily reached by road from Pokhara. Perfect Short Trek: Low risk of altitude sickness; ideal for beginners or a short getaway. Day 1 2 3 4 5 Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga / Ulleri (1,570 m) – 4–5 hrs After breakfast in Pokhara, we drive for about 1.5 hours to Nayapul, the trek starting point. The trail follows a gentle path alongside the Modi Khola river, through terraced farmland and small settlements. After lunch at Birethanti or Hile, a steep but scenic climb leads to Ulleri—a stone-built Magar village perched on a ridge. Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani (2,860 m) – 5–6 hrs We climb further through rhododendron and oak forests. The air grows cooler as we ascend, with occasional glimpses of Machhapuchhre through the trees. Passing Nangethanti, we arrive in Ghorepani, a major trail junction with stunning views. The village sits beneath Poon Hill and is surrounded by mountains. Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m), trek to Tadapani (2,630 m) – 6 hrs We start before dawn, hiking for an hour to reach Poon Hill in time for sunrise. As the light hits, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri glow gold and pink. After soaking in the views, we return for breakfast and begin our trek to Tadapani—a forested path with monkey sightings and waterfall crossings. Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m) – 4 hrs Today is an easy downhill walk to Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in the region. The village has a rich cultural museum, beautiful stone homes, and mesmerizing mountain views. Explore the narrow alleys and learn about the Gurung way of life before a relaxed evening in a cozy lodge. Day 5: Trek to Nayapul & Drive back to Pokhara – 4 hrs trek + 1.5 hrs drive After breakfast, we descend gradually to Kimche and Syauli Bazaar, following the Modi River again through green hills and terraces. At Nayapul, our private vehicle will be waiting for the drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy a lakeside dinner and maybe a well-earned massage! Included in The Cost Trekking guide/porter All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking) Accommodation in Tea house (lodges) during the trek Entry Permit for Annapurna conservation Area All land transportation from pokhara to nayapul and back to pokhara Flight tickets from Kathmandu to Lukla and Lukla to Kathmandu Necessary insurance and equipment for trekking staff Airport pick- up and drop-off service Government taxes and Our service charge Not Included in The Cost Personal nature expenses Drinks, beverages, etc. Tips Sleeping bag and down jacket if required Lunch and dinner in Pokhara Hotel in Pokhara Road Blockeds and personal Expense. In Case of emergency , your personal travel insurance includes your helicopter rescue, trip cancellation and medical expenses. Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210 m): Iconic panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri (7th highest peak), and Machhapuchhre. Charming Villages: Explore traditional Magar and Gurung culture in Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Rhododendron Forests: Spring (March–April) brings fiery blooms across dense alpine forests. Accessible Route: No flights needed—easily reached by road from Pokhara. Perfect Short Trek: Low risk of altitude sickness; ideal for beginners or a short getaway. Day 1 2 3 4 5 Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, trek to Tikhedhunga / Ulleri (1,570 m) – 4–5 hrs After breakfast in Pokhara, we drive for about 1.5 hours to Nayapul, the trek starting point. The trail follows a gentle path alongside the Modi Khola river, through terraced farmland and small settlements. After lunch at Birethanti or Hile, a steep but scenic climb leads to Ulleri—a stone-built Magar village perched on a ridge. Day 2: Trek to Ghorepani (2,860 m) – 5–6 hrs We climb further through rhododendron and oak forests. The air grows cooler as we ascend, with occasional glimpses of Machhapuchhre through the trees. Passing Nangethanti, we arrive in Ghorepani, a major trail junction with stunning views. The village sits beneath Poon Hill and is surrounded by mountains. Day 3: Sunrise at Poon Hill (3,210 m), trek to Tadapani (2,630 m) – 6 hrs We start before dawn, hiking for an hour to reach Poon Hill in time for sunrise. As the light hits, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri glow gold and pink. After soaking in the views, we return for breakfast and begin our trek to Tadapani—a forested path with monkey sightings and waterfall crossings. Day 4: Trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m) – 4 hrs Today is an easy downhill walk to Ghandruk, one of the largest Gurung villages in the region. The village has a