Mardi Himal, Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp are the three classic short and medium treks from Pokhara. They share the Annapurna region, but each has a distinct character. Choosing between them is easier when you know what each offers.
Mardi Himal
A ridge trek of five to seven days, with a high point at the View Point at about 4,200 m. Its strength is the direct, close-up view of Machhapuchhre and a quiet, wilder feel. Lodges are simple and facilities limited. It is a good choice for those who prefer solitude and don't mind basic comfort.
Poon Hill
A short trek of four or five days, with a high point of about 3,210 m. Its strength is the famous sunrise panorama and comfortable village lodges. It is the easiest of the three and the best for beginners and families, although it can be crowded.
Annapurna Base Camp
A longer trek of nine to twelve days, with a high point of about 4,130 m. Its strength is the dramatic arrival in the sanctuary, surrounded by peaks, and its variety of landscapes. It requires more time and fitness, and it is the busiest of the three.
Quick comparison
- Days: Poon Hill 4 to 5, Mardi Himal 5 to 7, ABC 9 to 12.
- Difficulty: Poon Hill easy to moderate, Mardi Himal moderate, ABC moderate to demanding.
- Crowds: Poon Hill and ABC busy, Mardi Himal quieter.
- Lodges: Poon Hill most comfortable, Mardi Himal simplest.
- Views: Poon Hill for panorama, Mardi Himal for Machhapuchhre, ABC for immersion.
How to choose
Choose Poon Hill if you have four or five days and want an easy start. Choose Mardi Himal if you have about a week and want quiet and ridge views. Choose ABC if you have ten days or more and want the classic sanctuary. Many people do two of them in one trip.
Which has the best lodges
Poon Hill has the most comfortable lodges, with attached bathrooms, hot showers and wifi in many villages. ABC has a wide range of lodges, from basic to comfortable, with good food in lower villages. Mardi Himal's lodges are the simplest. If comfort matters, choose Poon Hill or the lower part of ABC.
Which is best for a first trek
Poon Hill is the best first trek because it is short and easy. Annapurna Base Camp is a great first long trek if you have time and fitness. Mardi Himal suits trekkers with some experience who want something quieter.
Combining all three
With three weeks you can do all three in sequence from Pokhara, using the city for rest between each. This gives a broad taste of the Annapurna foothills and sanctuary and allows you to compare the routes yourself.
