Annapurna Poon Hill Trek
- 15 Days
- USD
Mardi Himal Trek, nestled close to the Annapurna Base Camp, is one of the lesser-known and less-explored trekking routes in the Himalayas. Despite being officially opened for trekking only in 2012, this trail offers a truly unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, allowing trekkers to witness the grandeur of the Mardi Himal Base Camp while avoiding the crowded routes of the more famous Annapurna treks. This relatively short but breathtaking trek offers diverse landscapes, from dense forests to high alpine ridges, with uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself.
The adventure begins in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, known as Nepal’s trekking hub, before a scenic drive leads to Dhampus, a charming Gurung village with breathtaking mountain views. The trail then ascends gradually to Pothana, another picturesque settlement surrounded by lush green hills and stunning Himalayan vistas. At this point, the route diverges from the main Annapurna Circuit and enters a more isolated and untouched region, winding through thick rhododendron forests towards Forest Camp. During spring, the entire trail is painted in vibrant hues as the rhododendron flowers bloom, creating a magical atmosphere along the dense jungle paths.
As the journey continues, the trail gradually climbs higher through the Himalayan foothills, offering trekkers a sense of solitude and tranquility rarely found on the busier trekking routes. The tree line eventually fades away, revealing an entirely new dimension of the trek—dramatic ridges with breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. With each step, the beauty of the Annapurna and Mardi Himal ranges becomes more pronounced, making this trek an unforgettable experience for those seeking both adventure and serenity in the Himalayas.
Mardi Himal Trek, located close to the renowned Annapurna Base Camp, is one of the Himalayas’ lesser-known and less-explored trekking routes. Although the area was officially opened for trekking only in 2012, it has quickly gained popularity among adventure seekers looking for a peaceful and untouched Himalayan experience. This trek offers an incredible opportunity to witness the Mardi Himal Base Camp while walking along a trail that remains relatively unexplored compared to the busier Annapurna routes. With breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse landscapes, and cultural encounters along the way, Mardi Himal is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of adventure, solitude, and natural beauty.
The journey begins in Pokhara, Nepal’s famous lake city and trekking hub, from where a scenic drive takes trekkers to Dhampus, a beautiful Gurung village perched on a ridge with stunning views of the Annapurna range. The well-maintained trail then continues toward Pothana, another picturesque settlement where trekkers can soak in panoramic mountain vistas and enjoy the region’s unique hospitality. At Pothana, the route branches away from the main Annapurna trekking trails, leading into a denser and more secluded jungle path that eventually reaches Forest Camp, aptly named due to its surroundings of thick rhododendron and oak forests.
During spring, the entire region bursts into life as the rhododendrons bloom, covering the hillsides in shades of pink, red, and white. This stretch of the trek is particularly magical, with towering trees, the sound of birdsong, and the occasional sighting of Himalayan wildlife, such as langurs, Himalayan monals, and musk deer. The trail gradually ascends through the Himalayan foothills, eventually emerging from the tree line, revealing an entirely new dimension to the trek. As the landscape opens up, trekkers are greeted with sublime panoramas of the snow-capped peaks, making every step feel more rewarding.
As the ascent continues, the view of the Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal becomes more spectacular with each turn. The changing colors of the mountains throughout the day—soft pastel hues at dawn, golden reflections under the midday sun, and the fiery glow of sunset—create a breathtaking visual spectacle. The trek provides a 360-degree Himalayan experience, offering a sense of isolation and tranquility that is rare on more commercialized trekking routes.
The return journey follows a different route, descending through Low Camp and passing through Lwang, a traditional Gurung village where trekkers can experience local culture, warm hospitality, and delicious organic food grown in the terraced fields. The final section of the trek transitions from steep mountain trails to a scenic drive back to Pokhara, providing one last opportunity to appreciate the stunning landscapes before re-entering civilization.
The Mardi Himal Trek offers an alternative way to explore the Annapurna region, one that is as scenically rewarding as the more well-known treks yet provides a more intimate and peaceful experience. With its diverse landscapes, breathtaking mountain views, rich cultural interactions, and a sense of solitude, this trek feels like a private journey through a hidden Himalayan paradise. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mardi Himal is a trek that leaves a lasting impression and a deep connection with the mountains.
Packing for Your Next Adventure: Everything You Need to Know
The key to having a good time in the mountains is to be organized and plan ahead. In addition to all of your training, ensuring that you have the appropriate equipment is an important aspect of preparing for your trip. Choosing the proper equipment will give you an extra comfort and safety boost, so you can be at your best while still enjoying yourself. It’s essential to have the right gear with you to get the most out of your trip. To help you better prepare for the mountain you will be climbing, we have provided a complete packing guide.
TREKKING GEAR LIST
HEADWEAR & EYEWEAR | UPPER BODY |
Sun Cap | Thermal Wear |
Balaclava | Trekking T-Shirts |
Fleece Cap | Mid Weight Trek Top |
Head Buff | Fleece Jacket |
Neck Gaiter | Gore-Tex Jacket |
Sun Glasses (UV Protection) | Down Jacket |
LOWER BODY | PERSONAL EQUIPMENT |
Thermal Wear | Down Sleeping Bag (-10°C to -20°C) |
Trekking Pants | Headlamp (Rechargeable Batteries) |
Mid Weight Trek Pants | Trekking Pole |
TRAVEL NECESSITIES | HANDS AND FEET |
Rucksack (45 – 55 Ltr) | Fleece Gloves |
Day Pack (30 – 40 Ltr) | Wind Stopper Gloves |
Duffle Bag (Optional) | Trekking Shoes |
Valid Passport | Trekking Socks |
PP Size Photo (2 Copies) | Flipflop |
Insurance Paper | Gaiters (we notify you, if required) |
MEDICAL | EATING & DRINKING |
Brufen / Combiflam | Energy Bar / Snacks |
Paracetamol & Antibiotics | Water Bottle |
Handy Plast & Crepe Bandage | Thermos |
Iodine Tincture | Water Filter (optional) |
MISCELLANEOUS | TOILETRIES |
Lip Balm | Hand Disinfectant |
Sunscreen | Wet Tissue |
Moisturizer | Tooth Paste |
Quick Dry Towel | Tooth Brush |
Power Bank | Soap |
Poncho / Umbrella | Shampoo |
Our training goal is to get you physically and mentally prepared to face the climb with more confidence. The climbing goal will be to perform consistently throughout the adventure. Fitness for mountaineering requires a high overall level of physical conditioning. Both cardiovascular and motor fitness are needed to climb at varying levels of intensity and to navigate challenging terrain, often while carrying a loaded pack and at high altitudes.
Training goals are critically important and allow you to perform better at higher altitudes and enjoy the entire adventure. We suggest that you examine the physical requirements of the climb you are approaching and work on your fitness in different levels. Click here to Learn more about Trip Grades and choose what’s best for you!
Establish a timeline for your training program and focus on specific conditioning for better results. Along with your workouts try and add hikes and climbs in the outdoors whenever possible to get more comfortable with different terrains. Sound fitness gained through a well-guided program is the only best way to ensure a safe and successful adventure.
Mountaineering Fitness and Training
It may also be helpful to break down your training timeline into a number of key phases. These are:
Phase 1 : Base physical fitness
The first phase of getting prepared for your climb is to focus on your base fitness. You should incorporate a fitness routine that focuses on both cardiovascular fitness and motor fitness training. For those who are not used to intense workouts this phase will help you to kickstart your training. Remember that consistency is the first most important factor in achieving any goal. Combine your basic fitness regimes along with running and stair climbing. You are now ready for outdoor adventures.
Phase 2 : Training specific for the climb
Once you have established your base physical fitness, you will need to train specifically for the climb. Depending on the difficulty and intensity of the climb, add advanced workout sessions combined with uphill training. Try and do the same fitness routines with some added loads. Strength training combined with cardiovascular and motor fitness will help with the overall conditioning. This will take your workouts to the next level and help gear up for the mountaineering challenge ahead.
Phase 3 : Outdoor Training
Nothing can replace training in the real outdoors. In the final phase of your training, you should be attempting climbs which are similar to the ones you are approaching. It is great to test your endurance outdoors. This gives you a great edge in preparing for conditions similar to the ones you will encounter during your expedition. It isn’t always possible to find similar terrains close to where you live, but it is best to find a hike as close to the climb as possible. This is the best way to test your climbing gears as well.
Training goals and timeline
Working out for at least 5 days in a week is the best way to get your body physically prepared for the climb ahead. Regular and consistent training always gives the best result and keeps you highly motivated. Make sure that you workout regularly and also give enough time for rest and recovery. Keep it balanced and have a properly planned fitness routine and never overdo exercises to the point of injury. While 2 to 3 months is a good amount of time to train, starting your training earlier allows more time to adjust and prepare.
Click here to learn more about Training for your Upcoming Climb and get ready for the adventure!
Start Date | End Date | Price | Availability | Book |
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16 Mar, 2025 | 25 Mar, 2025 | $ USD | Guaranteed | Book now |
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