Trekking the Himalayas’ Soul: Annapurna, Manaslu, Mardi & Ghorepani

September 10, 2025
4 mins read
Annapurna

Nepal has so many treks that bring dreams for every traveler. Some treks are long and big, some treks are short and soft, but all give memories forever. Manaslu circuit trek, Annapurna base camp trek, Mardi Himal trek, Ghorepani Poon hill trek, these four trails show the big face of the Himalaya. They are not the same but are all beautiful. Every trail gives nature, people, mountains, culture, and a story. Trekkers from around the world come again and again.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu circuit trek is a remote trek in Nepal. It goes around Mt. Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. Trekking is hard but so rewarding. You walk from low green land to high pass. Larke La pass is the main point, 5106 meters high. Local people are a mix of Hindu and Buddhist, so culture looks different. Tea houses are not luxury but enough. Many villages look old, quiet, and simple. Trek feels like old Nepal, not crowded like Everest or Annapurna.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna base camp trek is a famous trek. It goes inside a big mountain circle. The trek brings you to 4130 meters, the base of Annapurna I. Paths go through forest, rice fields, small Gurung villages, rivers, and high mountain valleys. Every day views change. One day you see Machhapuchhre, the next day a big glacier. Trek is not too long, 7 to 12 days people finish. Tea houses are good; the food also has many choices. Because the trail is popular, you meet many trekkers and locals. The atmosphere is warm. Sunrise and sunset from base camp give a heart shock.

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal trek is a quiet trek. It goes near Machhapuchhre mountain. The trail is small; fewer people go compared to ABC. You start from Pokhara, climb through forest, rhododendron jungle, and ridge walk. Mardi Himal base camp is around 4500 meters. The views are sharp and close, like you can touch a mountain. Many times you walk alone with silence. Trek is not long, 5 to 7 days. Perfect for those who want a mountain feel but not too crowded. The tea house is now more open but still simple.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon hill trek is a short and easy trek. Many families, beginners, and old people also can. The trek goes in the Annapurna region; the highest point is Poon Hill at 3210 meters. Morning sunrise from Poon Hill is world famous. You see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre all in one line. The trail goes through forest, waterfall, and the village of Gurung and Magar people. Trek can be done in 3 to 5 days, depending on how slow or fast you go. It is perfect for those who have a short time but want mountain taste.

Why Choose These Treks?

Each trek gives a different reason. Manaslu is for those who want to be remote and wild. ABC is for those who want classic and mixed culture and nature. Mardi Himal is for silence and close mountains. Poon Hill is easy and short with sunrise. Together they cover almost all types of trekking. They are a Nepal beauty in small packages.

Routes And Highlights

Manaslu Circuit

Start from Arughat or Soti Khola, then go through Maccha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaon. The main highlight is Larke La pass. A side trip to Manaslu base camp and Birendra Lake was also nice.

Annapurna Base Camp

Start from Nayapul or Jhinu. Pass Ghandruk, Chomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and then ABC. Highlight is Machhapuchhre base camp and the final Annapurna sanctuary.

Mardi Himal

Start from Kande or Dhampus. The trail goes to Forest camp, Low camp, High camp, then Mardi Himal base camp. The highlight is the ridge view and Machhapuchhre is very close.

Ghorepani Poon Hill

Start from Nayapul. Pass Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Ghorepani, then climb Poon Hill. Highlights are the sunrise and the cultural village walk.

Best Time To Trek

Autumn (Sep to Nov) is the best time. The weather is clear and sky blue, and a mountain is showing. Spring (Mar to May) is also good; the forest is full of rhododendron flowers. Winter is cold but possible, with fewer people. Summer monsoon rain and leeches are not the best.

Food And Accommodation

All treks are tea house style. The food is Dal Bhat, noodles, momo, bread, egg, and soup. In Annapurna, there is more western food like pizza and pasta. The Manaslu side is more simple. The rooms are basic, with two beds, blankets, and in some place a hot shower. In Poon Hill and ABC more comfort. Mardi Himal is simple but enough.

Weather Condition

The weather changes fast on the mountain. Morning mostly clear; afternoon clouds come. Manaslu is higher, colder and windier than in the past. ABC and Mardi Himal also have cold nights. Poon Hill is less high, more mild. Always bring a warm jacket, raincoat, and sleeping bag.

Culture And People

In Manaslu, there are many Tibetan-style villages. People follow Buddhism, prayer flags, and monasteries. In Annapurna, Gurung and Magar people mix cultures. In Mardi Himal, a small village, you meet local friends. In the Poon Hill trek, Gurung and Magar also see terrace farming and folk songs. Locals always welcome a big smile.

Difficulty Level

The Manaslu circuit is hard, a long day, a high pass, and strong. ABC is a medium step climb but not too high. Mardi Himal is medium-short, but the ridge climb needs stamina. Poon Hill is easy; only the Ulleri steps are a little tough. Anyone with average fitness can do Poon Hill.

Trekking Permit

Manaslu needs a special permit, and also a guide and company are required. ABC, Mardi Himal, and Poon Hill need TIMS and the Annapurna Conservation permit. All can get from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Tips For Trekkers

Walk slowly; don’t rush. Drink water always. Carry some cash; there’s no ATM in the mountains. Respect the locals; ask before the photo. Bring warm clothes even in spring. In Manaslu, carry some snacks, because there is a long distance between the lodges. In Poon Hill, go early for sunrise; there are many people.

Experience Of a Trekker

Many trekkers say Manaslu is best because it is less crowded and more wild. ABC gives a dream view with easy access. Mardi Himal gives a peaceful, peaceful feeling. Poon Hill gives a quick reward. All treks have a different charm.

Conclusion

The Manaslu circuit, Annapurna base camp, Mardi Himal, and Ghorepani Poon Hill are all treasures of Nepal. Each trail is different, but all show mountain souls. Those who go once always dream of returning. A Nepal trek is not just a walk; it is a life memory. Choose any; you will be happy.

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