Side by side
| Mardi Himal Trek | Khopra Danda Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 6 | 8 |
| Highest point | 4,500 m | 4,660 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Total distance | 55 km | 78 km |
| Best months | March to April and October to December | March to May and October to December |
| Typical cost | $400 to $700 | $680 to $1,150 |
| Starts from | Kande (1,750 m) or Forest Camp via taxi from Pokhara | Nayapul or Ghandruk, near Pokhara |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Mardi Himal Trek if
The Mardi Himal trek is a 5 to 7 day moderate trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area that follows a ridge high above the Modi Khola valley to a high camp at 4,500 m with extraordinary close-range views of Machhapuchhre (the Fishtail) and Mardi Himal. Opened to trekkers in 2012, it remains significantly less crowded than the nearby Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill routes.
The High Camp altitude of 4,500 m requires good acclimatisation and cold-weather preparation. The trails are well-marked but steeper than Poon Hill.
Choose the Khopra Danda Trek if
The Khopra Danda trek is an 8 day ridge trail in Nepal's Annapurna region reaching 3,660 m at the lodge and 4,660 m at holy Khayer Lake. It offers close panoramic views of Mount Dhaulagiri across the Kali Gandaki gorge without the heavy foot traffic of Poon Hill.
Steep forest trails and an exposed ridgeline. The excursion up to Khayer Lake at 4,660 m requires good fitness, early morning departures and steady footing over loose stone paths.
