Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara through beautiful countryside, passing terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and the rushing Modi Khola River before reaching Tikhedhunga.

From Tikhedhunga, the trek starts with a steady uphill climb toward the picturesque Magar village of Ulleri. The highlight of the day is ascending the famous 3,300 stone steps, one of the most iconic sections of the Ghorepani trail. Although physically demanding, the rewarding mountain scenery and warm village hospitality make every step worthwhile.

Highlights

• Scenic countryside drive from Pokhara
• Traditional Magar villages
• The famous 3,300 stone staircase
• Beautiful Annapurna foothills scenery

Today's trail gradually climbs through dense oak and rhododendron forests, making this section especially spectacular during spring when thousands of rhododendrons bloom in vibrant shades of red, pink, and white.

As you gain elevation, occasional openings reveal panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. After crossing several streams and charming tea houses, you finally arrive in the lively mountain village of Ghorepani.

Highlights

• Rhododendron forests
• Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre views
• Traditional tea houses
• Peaceful mountain atmosphere

Before sunrise, begin a short but unforgettable hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m), one of Nepal’s most iconic sunrise viewpoints and a highlight of the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. The early morning climb takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour through stone steps and cool rhododendron forest, leading you above the clouds just in time for dawn.

As the sun rises, the entire horizon slowly lights up, revealing a breathtaking 360-degree Himalayan panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. From this famous Poon Hill viewpoint, you can clearly see towering peaks including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Machhapuchhre / Fishtail Mountain (6,993 m), Nilgiri Himal, Tukuche Peak, and several other snow-covered ridges stretching endlessly across the horizon. The golden sunrise paints these giants in shades of orange, pink, and gold, making it one of the most photographed scenes in the entire Annapurna trekking region of Nepal.

This moment is often described as the highlight of the Poon Hill sunrise trek, offering unmatched views of both the Annapurna Conservation Area and the Dhaulagiri massif in a single frame.

After spending time enjoying the sunrise, taking photos, and soaking in the Himalayan atmosphere, descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. From there, continue trekking through lush rhododendron and oak forests toward Tadapani. This section of the Annapurna trekking route offers continuous mountain scenery, peaceful jungle trails, and rich biodiversity, with chances to spot colorful Himalayan birds and wildlife along the way.

Highlights

• Sunrise from Poon Hill
• 360-degree Himalayan panorama
• Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
• Forest trail to Tadapani

Leaving Tadapani behind, the trail descends through lush rhododendron and moss-covered forests with occasional views of the Modi Khola Valley. The route gradually leads you toward the beautiful and culturally rich Gurung village of Ghandruk, one of the most famous settlements in the Annapurna region.

Upon reaching Ghandruk, you will take a lunch break and enjoy a guided tour of the village. Here, you can explore traditional stone houses, interact with the friendly Gurung community, and visit the Gurung Museum, which offers insight into the history, culture, clothing, and lifestyle of the local people.

After spending quality time in Ghandruk, the trek continues with a gentle descent toward the Modi Khola. After crossing the river, you begin an hour of ascent toward Landruk, passing terraced fields and scenic hillside trails. Landruk welcomes you with its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

Highlights

• Scenic descent through rhododendron forests
• Lunch stop and cultural tour in Ghandruk village
• Visit to the Gurung Museum
• Traditional Gurung culture and lifestyle experience
• Terraced farmlands and Modi Khola Valley views
• Mountain views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli

Today marks the transition from the popular Ghorepani trail to the quieter Mardi Himal Trek route. The trail climbs steadily through peaceful forests where trekkers encounter far fewer crowds.

As you enter the protected Mardi Himal ridge ecosystem, the surrounding environment becomes increasingly tranquil, with giant rhododendrons, oak trees, and occasional wildlife sightings.

Highlights

• Entering the Mardi Himal trail
• Quiet forest trekking
• Rich biodiversity
• Remote tea house experience

The trail gradually climbs through enchanting cloud forests covered with moss and ferns. As elevation increases, the forest begins to open, revealing dramatic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).

Today's shorter trek allows plenty of time to relax and acclimatize while enjoying one of the most peaceful sections of the entire journey.

Highlights

• Moss-covered cloud forest
• First close views of Machhapuchhre
• Comfortable acclimatization day
• Peaceful mountain environment

Today the landscape changes dramatically as you climb above the tree line into alpine meadows and rugged ridgelines. Every step offers increasingly spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

The crisp mountain air and open alpine scenery make this one of the most memorable days of the trek.

Highlights

• Alpine landscapes
• Panoramic Himalayan views
• High mountain ridges
• Sunset over Machhapuchhre

Begin before sunrise for the rewarding climb toward Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). The trail follows a spectacular narrow ridge with uninterrupted views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Standing at the base camp feels incredibly close to the towering face of Machhapuchhre, offering one of Nepal's most dramatic mountain viewpoints. After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, descend to Badal Danda for the night.

Highlights

• Mardi Himal Base Camp
• Close-up views of Machhapuchhre
• Annapurna Sanctuary panorama
• Spectacular ridge walk

Today's descent follows peaceful forest trails through traditional villages and terraced farmland before reaching Sidhing. This quieter route offers insight into rural Himalayan life far from the main trekking routes.

Enjoy your final evening surrounded by local hospitality and beautiful countryside.

Highlights

• Traditional mountain villages
• Forest trails
• Agricultural terraces
• Authentic local culture

After breakfast, drive back to Pokhara along scenic mountain roads, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek. Celebrate your achievement with a lakeside lunch in the afternoon and wonderful memories of the Annapurna region.

Highlights

• Scenic countryside drive
• Return to Pokhara
• End of your Annapurna trekking adventure