Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days

Q: How long does the Mardi Himal Trek take?

The trek typically takes 5–7 days, depending on your starting and ending points and walking pace.

Q: What is the difficulty level of the Mardi Himal Trek?

The trek is considered moderate: Daily walking ranges between 4–6 hours. Steep ascents and descents, particularly near the High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). Suitable for beginners with good physical fitness.

Q: What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek?

Spring (March–May): Warm weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views. Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, excellent visibility, and ideal trekking conditions. Winter (December–February): Cold but manageable; clear skies with snow at higher altitudes. Monsoon (June–August): Wet and slippery trails, but the landscape is lush and green.

Q: Do I need a guide or porter for this trek?

Guide: Not mandatory but recommended for first-timers. They help with navigation and local knowledge. Porter: Helpful if you don’t want to carry your backpack. The trail is well-marked, so independent trekking is possible for experienced trekkers.

Q: What permits are required for the trek?

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~$25). TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): NPR 2,000 (~$15–20). Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Q: Where does the trek start and end?

Start: Kande or Phedi (about 1 hour’s drive from Pokhara). End: Phedi, Kande, or Siding Village (depending on your chosen route). Trekking routes can be customized for shorter or longer durations.

Q: What is the highest point on the Mardi Himal Trek?

The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). Many trekkers also visit the Viewpoint (4,200 m) and High Camp (3,580 m).

Q: What are the accommodations like?

Teahouses: Basic lodges with simple rooms (usually twin sharing). Facilities include basic meals, communal bathrooms, and limited electricity or Wi-Fi (for a fee). Higher altitudes have more limited amenities.

Q: What kind of food is available?

Teahouses serve a variety of meals, including: Local: Dal Bhat, momos, noodle soup. Western: Pancakes, omelets, pasta, fried rice. Snacks and hot drinks like tea and coffee are widely available.

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Transportation
All ground transfers are arranged via private vehicle, including airport pickups/drop-offs and overland travel between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the trek starting/ending points.
Group Size
Suitable for individuals and groups of up to 24 participants. Both private departures and group joining options are available.
Maximum Altitude
4,500 meters (14,764 feet) – Mardi Himal Viewpoint, the highest point of the trek.
Accomodation
Lodge-to-lodge trekking with comfortable teahouse accommodations throughout the trek. Hotel accommodation in Pokhara is included, depending on the itinerary.
Fitness level
Moderate – Ideal for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Prior experience with high-altitude trekking is not required but can be beneficial.
Arrival on
Kathmandu, Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport – KTM)
Departure from
Kathmandu, Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport – KTM)
Best season
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) – These are the most favorable seasons, offering stable weather conditions, clear mountain views, and blooming rhododendron forests.
Guiding method
The trek is led by a government-licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide. Porter service is provided (one porter for every two trekkers) to carry luggage.
Tour type
Fully guided lodge-to-lodge trekking adventure.
Language
Professional English-speaking guides provided. Guides fluent in other languages are available upon request.
Meals
Three freshly prepared meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included during the trek. Breakfast is also included during the hotel stay in Pokhara.
Permits
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP),Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Review

The Mardi Himal Trek is an enchanting adventure that takes trekkers off the beaten path into the heart of the Annapurna region. Known for its pristine trails and awe-inspiring landscapes, this trek offers an immersive experience of Nepal’s natural and cultural wonders. Starting from Pokhara, the journey ascends through lush rhododendron and oak forests, transitioning into alpine meadows and rugged ridges as you approach High Camp. The trek culminates at the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,200m), where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of iconic peaks, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional Gurung villages, where you can experience warm hospitality and learn about local traditions.

The trek is moderately challenging, making it accessible to both seasoned adventurers and first-time trekkers seeking a unique Himalayan experience. With its serene trails, majestic mountain views, and fewer crowds compared to other Annapurna treks, Mardi Himal has become a popular choice for those seeking tranquility and connection with nature. Whether marveling at the sunrise from the Mardi Himal View Point or descending through charming villages like Siding, this trek promises unforgettable memories and a profound sense of achievement.

Highlights

Explore medieval Kathmandu and peaceful Pokhara
Lifetime trek experience for the first-timers
Explore lakeside and gaze at snow capped peaks in Pokhara
Enjoy the spectacular scenery of Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m) and Hiunchuli (6441 m)
Trek to Annapurna beneath the Machhapuchhre, the sacred ‘Fishtail Peak’
Joy of living in mountain lodges and sharing the traditional culture and lifestyle

Day 01 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (840m)

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (840m)

Drive Duration: 6–7 hours

Take a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway, following rivers and winding through picturesque hills and villages. Arrive in the peaceful lakeside city of Pokhara.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3 Stars Hotel

Day 02 :

Drive to Kande – Trek to Pritam Deurali (2,100m)

Drive to Kande – Trek to Pritam Deurali (2,100m)

Drive Duration: 1.5 hours (Pokhara to Kande – 1,770m)
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Trek Distance: ~8 km

Begin your trek from Kande, ascending through rhododendron forests. Pass Australian Camp and Pothana to reach Pritam Deurali with excellent views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

Overnight: Tea house in Pritam Deurali

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 03 :

Trek from Pritam Deurali to Forest Camp (2,600m)

Trek from Pritam Deurali to Forest Camp (2,600m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Trek Distance: ~10 km

Leave the main trail for a quieter route through dense forests rich in flora and birdlife. Gradually climb to Forest Camp, also known as Kokar.

Overnight: Tea house in Forest Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 04 :

Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (3,150m)

Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (3,150m)

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Trek Distance: ~6 km

Continue through rhododendron forests as the landscape opens up. Near Low Camp, enjoy dramatic views of Machhapuchhre soaring above the valley.

Overnight: Tea house in Low Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 05 :

Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3,580m)

Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3,580m)

Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Trek Distance: ~8 km

Trek above the tree line along a scenic ridge with panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalaya. Reach High Camp, perched on a narrow ridge facing majestic peaks.

Overnight: Tea house in High Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 06 :

Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) – Return to Low Camp (3,150m)

Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) – Return to Low Camp (3,150m)

Hike Duration: 7–8 hours
Hike Distance: ~11 km (round trip)

Start early for a sunrise hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail offers ridge-top walking with spectacular views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Descend to Low Camp after enjoying the base camp vistas.

Overnight: Tea house in Low Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tea House

Day 07 :

Trek to Siding Village (1,280m) – Drive to Pokhara (850m)

Trek to Siding Village (1,280m) – Drive to Pokhara (850m)

Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Trek Distance: ~7 km
Drive Duration: 2–3 hours

Descend through forests and terraced fields to the traditional Gurung village of Siding. After lunch, drive back to Pokhara.

Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

Day 8 :

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive Duration: 6–7 hours

Conclude your journey with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. You may also opt for a 25-minute flight (optional).

Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu (or end of trip)

Breakfast

3 Stars Hotel

FAQs-Mardi Himal Trek

Expand all

How long does the Mardi Himal Trek take?

The trek typically takes 5–7 days, depending on your starting and ending points and walking pace.

What is the difficulty level of the Mardi Himal Trek?

The trek is considered moderate:

Daily walking ranges between 4–6 hours.
Steep ascents and descents, particularly near the High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m).
Suitable for beginners with good physical fitness.

What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek?

Spring (March–May): Warm weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views.
Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, excellent visibility, and ideal trekking conditions.
Winter (December–February): Cold but manageable; clear skies with snow at higher altitudes.
Monsoon (June–August): Wet and slippery trails, but the landscape is lush and green.

Do I need a guide or porter for this trek?

Guide: Not mandatory but recommended for first-timers. They help with navigation and local knowledge.
Porter: Helpful if you don’t want to carry your backpack.
The trail is well-marked, so independent trekking is possible for experienced trekkers.

What permits are required for the trek?

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~$25).
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): NPR 2,000 (~$15–20).

Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Where does the trek start and end?

Start: Kande or Phedi (about 1 hour’s drive from Pokhara).
End: Phedi, Kande, or Siding Village (depending on your chosen route).
Trekking routes can be customized for shorter or longer durations.

What is the highest point on the Mardi Himal Trek?

The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). Many trekkers also visit the Viewpoint (4,200 m) and High Camp (3,580 m).

What are the accommodations like?

Teahouses: Basic lodges with simple rooms (usually twin sharing).
Facilities include basic meals, communal bathrooms, and limited electricity or Wi-Fi (for a fee).
Higher altitudes have more limited amenities.

What kind of food is available?

Teahouses serve a variety of meals, including:

Local: Dal Bhat, momos, noodle soup.
Western: Pancakes, omelets, pasta, fried rice.
Snacks and hot drinks like tea and coffee are widely available.

How should I prepare physically for this trek?

Engage in cardio exercises like walking, running, or swimming.
Practice hiking with a loaded backpack.
Include strength training to prepare for steep ascents and descents.

What gear should I pack?

Clothing: Layered clothing, warm jacket, thermal base layers, gloves, and a hat.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots and socks.
Accessories: Trekking poles, a good-quality backpack, and a rain cover.
Essentials: Water purification tablets, sunscreen, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Mardi Himal Trek?

While the trek does not go extremely high (max: 4,500 m), mild symptoms of altitude sickness are possible.

Acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.
Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.

Is the Mardi Himal Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the trek is beginner-friendly with proper preparation and a reasonable fitness level. It’s shorter and less strenuous than other treks in the region, like the Annapurna Circuit.

Is travel insurance necessary?

Yes, ensure your insurance covers:

Trekking up to 4,500 m.
Emergency evacuation by helicopter.

Are there ATMs along the trail?

No, there are no ATMs along the trek. Withdraw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu before starting.

What are the highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek?

Stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
Fewer crowds compared to popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp.
Vibrant rhododendron forests in spring.
The serene and less-commercialized atmosphere of villages and trails.