Planning a trek in the Annapurna region and torn between two popular short treks? Mardi Himal and Poon Hill both offer stunning Himalayan views, but cater to different preferences. Whether you’re chasing spectacular sunrise panoramas with cultural immersion or craving solitude and close-up mountain vistas, this comparison will help you decide which trek best suits your adventure style.
Key Differences:
| Feature |
Poon Hill Trek |
Mardi Himal Trek |
| Max Elevation |
~3,210 m – moderate altitude |
~4,500 m – higher altitude |
| Difficulty |
Easy–Moderate; beginner‑friendly |
Moderate–Challenging; steeper & rugged |
| Views |
Wide panoramic sunrise vistas |
Close-up, immersive Himalayan ridges |
| Crowds & Comfort |
Very popular; numerous teahouses & amenities |
Less crowded; basic lodging at higher elevations |
| Duration & Distance |
~3–5 days, ~40 km |
~5–7 days, ~40–50 km |
If you’re seeking a gentle introduction to Himalayan trekking, Poon Hill is ideal. It takes about 3–5 days, is predominantly easy to moderate, and peaks at \~3,210 m—low altitude means minimal risk of AMS and no need for acclimatization. The trail is well-supported by numerous teahouses offering decent amenities (hot showers, Wi‑Fi, varied meals) and rich cultural interactions in Gurung and Magar villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. Sunrise from Poon Hill delivers spectacular 360° panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and more.
Conversely, Mardi Himal is for trekkers craving more solitude, challenge, and proximity to the mountains. Over 5–7 days, you ascend to \~4,500 m, requiring acclimatization and making the trek moderately strenuous. The trail takes you through dense rhododendron and oak forests, rugged ridges, and alpine meadows, culminating in breathtaking up-close views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself. Though accommodation becomes sparse and more rustic at higher camps, the remoteness enhances the sense of wilderness.
In short: choose Poon Hill for an easy, comfortable, culturally rich trek with panoramic views; choose Mardi Himal if you’re up for a tougher, more remote adventure with intimate alpine scenery and fewer crowds.
