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Mardi Himal Trek
Annapurna Region

Mardi Himal Trek

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Duration

10 Days

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Difficulty

Moderate

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Start/End

Kathmandu - Kathmandu

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Best Season

Sep-Nov & Mar-May

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Trip Area

Annapurna Region

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Max Altitude

4100m

Overview

Discover one of the Annapurna region's most rewarding treks on the Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu. Tucked between the popular Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill routes, Mardi Himal remains one of Nepal's best kept secrets, offering close up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself across a rewarding ten day journey. Starting and ending in Kathmandu, the trek leads through peaceful rhododendron and oak forests, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and remote high camps before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,460m (14,632ft). With dramatic mountain scenery, minimal crowds, and a well-rounded itinerary, the Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent choice for travelers who want a genuine Himalayan trekking experience combined with the cultural richness of Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most rewarding alternative treks in the Annapurna region, offering an excellent combination of accessibility, cultural charm, and jaw dropping mountain views across a well-balanced ten day itinerary starting and ending in Kathmandu.

Unlike the busier trails leading to Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal remains a peaceful and less travelled route, allowing trekkers to enjoy uninterrupted views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Hiunchuli in a quieter setting. After a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and a short transfer to Phedi, the trek begins with a climb through dense forests of rhododendron and oak toward Deurali, offering early glimpses of the surrounding peaks and the Pokhara valley below.

As the trail continues toward Forest Camp and High Camp, the dense forest cover gradually thins into open ridgelines, giving way to sweeping panoramic views on both sides of the trail. High Camp, perched at 4,100m (13,451ft), serves as the base for the trek's highlight, an ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,460m (14,632ft), where Machhapuchhre towers directly ahead alongside close up views of Mardi Himal and the wider Annapurna range.

One of the defining features of this trek is the dramatic contrast in scenery across a relatively short distance. Trekkers move from lush subtropical forest to high alpine terrain within a few days, experiencing a wide range of landscapes rarely found together on a single itinerary. The descent takes a different route entirely, passing through Sidhing village and the organic farming community of Lwang Ghale, adding a rich cultural dimension to the return journey before reaching Lumre and driving back to Pokhara.

The Mardi Himal Trek reaches its highest point at Base Camp near 4,460m (14,632ft), making it one of the higher alternative treks in the Annapurna region. Despite this altitude, the trek remains achievable for most trekkers with a reasonable fitness level, given the gradual ascent profile built into the itinerary.

Whether you are looking for a complete Himalayan adventure that combines Kathmandu's cultural sites, Pokhara's lakeside charm, and a genuine off the beaten path trek, the Mardi Himal Trek delivers unforgettable mountain views, peaceful trails, and a well-rounded sense of adventure across ten memorable days.

hotel_class Trek Highlights

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  • • Close up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal from Base Camp itself
  • • A well-balanced ten day itinerary combining trekking, cultural sites, and lakeside relaxation
  • • Quiet, less crowded trails compared to other popular Annapurna routes
  • • Walk through peaceful rhododendron and oak forests before reaching open alpine ridges
  • • Cultural encounters with local Gurung and Magar communities, including the organic farming village of Lwang Ghale
  • • Spectacular sunrise and sunset views from High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp
  • • A distinct ascent and descent route, adding variety and fresh scenery throughout the journey
  • • Comfortable teahouse stays at Deurali, Forest Camp, High Camp, and Sidhing village
  • • A sustainable, low impact trekking option ideal for eco conscious travelers
  • • Fully supported trek with experienced guides, private transport, and included meals

Useful Information

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Accommodation

The Mardi Himal Trek offers comfortable accommodation that blends quality hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with simple mountain lodges along the trekking route. Before and after the trek, you will stay in tourist standard hotels in both cities, providing comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi access, and daily breakfast, giving you the chance to relax before and after your Himalayan adventure.
During the trek, accommodation is provided in small, locally operated teahouses at Deurali, Forest Camp, High Camp, and Sidhing village. These lodges are simple but welcoming, offering twin sharing rooms with basic beds, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. Since Forest Camp and High Camp sit at higher, more remote elevations, rooms are more basic than those found on busier Annapurna trails, and facilities such as hot showers or private rooms may be limited depending on the season and availability.
Despite the simplicity, the warm hospitality of the local Gurung and Magar lodge owners makes every stay memorable. Dining halls at each stop are cozy gathering spaces where trekkers can warm up, enjoy a hot meal, and take in incredible mountain views. Staying in these small mountain lodges is part of what makes the Mardi Himal Trek feel like an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Food and Dining Experience

Meals throughout the Mardi Himal Trek are freshly prepared at each teahouse, offering a satisfying mix of traditional Nepali food and simple international options. Since the route is quieter and less commercialized than other Annapurna trails, menus are somewhat simpler, especially at Forest Camp and High Camp, but portions remain generous and filling.
Breakfast typically includes options such as eggs, toast, Tibetan bread, porridge, pancakes, and hot tea or coffee. For lunch and dinner, dal bhat remains the most popular and practical choice, offering rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles with unlimited refills in most lodges. Other available options include noodles, soups, fried rice, and momos, depending on the teahouse and season.
Hot drinks such as milk tea, black tea, ginger tea, and hot lemon are widely available and especially welcome in the cooler temperatures of High Camp. While the food options become more limited at higher elevations, the meals remain wholesome and are well suited to the energy demands of trekking in the mountains.

Why Choose the Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek stands out as one of the best alternative trekking options in the Annapurna region, offering incredible mountain views and a rich cultural journey through Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the Annapurna foothills. For travelers seeking a complete Himalayan experience, this trek delivers close up mountain scenery, village culture, and a genuine sense of adventure across a well-rounded ten day itinerary.
One of the biggest draws of this trek is its close up perspective of Machhapuchhre. Few other trails in Nepal offer such an intimate view of this iconic and sacred peak. Combined with sweeping views of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself from Base Camp, the scenery along this route is among the most striking in the entire region.
The trek also appeals to those seeking a quieter alternative to busier routes such as Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill. With fewer trekkers on the trail, Mardi Himal offers a more peaceful, personal connection with the mountains, while still providing comfortable teahouses and a well-established trail.
Combined with its distinct ascent and descent routes, dramatic scenery, cultural charm, and easy access from Kathmandu and Pokhara, the Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent choice for trekkers, photographers, and adventure seekers looking for a rewarding journey in the Annapurna Himalaya.

Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek

The best time to complete the Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November). These months provide the most stable weather, clear mountain visibility, and comfortable trekking temperatures throughout the route.
Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests along the lower sections of the trail, filling the hillsides with vibrant shades of red and pink. The pleasant daytime temperatures and colorful landscapes make this an especially beautiful time to trek.
Autumn is equally popular due to its dry weather and excellent visibility following the monsoon season. Clear skies during this period reveal outstanding views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks, making it one of the most rewarding times to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Both seasons offer reliable trail conditions, comfortable temperatures, and some of the best mountain panoramas found anywhere near Pokhara.

Mardi Himal Trek During Winter and Monsoon

The Mardi Himal Trek can also be completed during winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August), though each season brings a different experience.
Winter offers quiet trails and clear skies, with fresh snow often covering the upper sections around High Camp and Base Camp. Temperatures can drop well below freezing at night, so proper winter clothing is essential for a comfortable trek during this period.
During monsoon, rainfall is common and can make the lower trail sections muddy and slippery, while clouds may occasionally obscure mountain views. However, the forests remain lush and green, and trekkers willing to accept some uncertainty in visibility can still enjoy a quieter trail with fewer crowds.
Although spring and autumn remain the most popular choices, well prepared trekkers can still enjoy a rewarding adventure on the Mardi Himal Trek during winter or monsoon.

Trek Difficulty and Fitness Requirements

The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior hiking experience. No technical climbing skills are required, though the ascent to Base Camp and the long descent to Sidhing involve sustained effort over several consecutive days.
Trekkers typically walk between three and seven hours each day, with the longest and most demanding days occurring during the climb from Forest Camp to High Camp and the descent from High Camp to Sidhing village. The trail includes forest paths, ridge walks, and steep sections near High Camp and Base Camp.
The highest point reached is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,460m (14,632ft), making this one of the higher alternative treks in the Annapurna region. The gradual ascent profile built into the ten day itinerary allows most trekkers with a reasonable fitness level to adjust comfortably to the altitude.
Preparing with regular walking, hiking, or general cardio training before the trip will help improve stamina and make the trek more enjoyable, particularly given the sustained climbing required on the approach to High Camp and Base Camp.

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization

Since the Mardi Himal Trek reaches a maximum elevation of 4,460m (14,632ft) at Base Camp, altitude sickness is a genuine consideration, particularly during the ascent from Forest Camp to High Camp and the subsequent hike to Base Camp. Moving at a steady pace and allowing the body time to adjust across these higher days is important for a safe and comfortable trek.
Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. Most trekkers avoid serious issues by ascending gradually, drinking plenty of water, eating well, and listening closely to their body as they gain elevation.
Our experienced government licensed guides accompany every trekker on the route and are trained to recognize the early signs of altitude sickness. They monitor each trekker's condition closely, especially during the High Camp to Base Camp stage, and will adjust the pace or itinerary if necessary. Your safety and comfort remain the top priority throughout the Mardi Himal Trek.

Transportation Information

The Mardi Himal Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, passing through winding mountain highways, river valleys, and terraced farmland along the way. This drive offers an excellent introduction to Nepal's diverse landscapes before the trekking portion of the journey begins.
From Pokhara, a short drive takes you to Phedi, the actual starting point of the trek. After completing the trekking route, trekkers descend to Lumre, where a private vehicle transfers them back to Pokhara. From Pokhara, the return journey to Kathmandu follows the same scenic highway used at the start of the trip.
Private vehicles can be arranged for greater comfort, while shared tourist transportation is also available depending on the selected trekking package. All transportation throughout the journey is carefully organized by our team, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying the trek.

Internet, Charging and Wi-Fi Availability

Wi-Fi and charging facilities are available at some lodges along the route, though connectivity is more limited than on busier Annapurna trails due to the remote nature of Forest Camp and High Camp. Where available, lodges typically offer Wi-Fi for an additional fee, though signal strength can vary depending on weather conditions.
Charging facilities are available at most stops, usually through solar power systems given the remote location of the higher camps. Small charges typically apply for charging phones, cameras, and other electronic devices.
Since facilities can be limited at higher elevations, carrying a fully charged power bank is strongly recommended, particularly for the days spent at Forest Camp, High Camp, and the hike to Base Camp.

Travel Insurance Requirements

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all trekkers undertaking the Mardi Himal Trek. Since the trek reaches Base Camp at 4,460m (14,632ft), it takes place in a remote mountain setting with limited medical facilities and requires adequate high-altitude coverage.
Your insurance policy should include coverage for trekking up to at least 5,000 meters, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, and trip cancellation or interruption. Given the steep and sustained climbing involved in reaching Base Camp, having a policy that covers emergency evacuation is particularly important on this trek.
Reviewing your policy carefully before arriving in Nepal ensures you have adequate coverage for high-altitude trekking and gives you peace of mind throughout your journey.

Permits Required for Mardi Himal Trek

All trekkers undertaking the Mardi Himal Trek are required to obtain the necessary permits before beginning the journey. These permits support conservation efforts, maintain trekking infrastructure, and help track trekkers for safety purposes throughout the Annapurna region.
The required permits include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card. Both permits are essential for legally trekking in the region and are checked at designated checkpoints along the route.
Our team arranges all necessary permits before your trek begins, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your adventure. Unless otherwise stated, permit costs are included in your trekking package.

What Makes the Mardi Himal Trek Different?

The Mardi Himal Trek stands apart from other Annapurna region treks by offering a distinct ascent and descent route packed with dramatic scenery and close up mountain views. While reaching Base Camp at 4,460m (14,632ft), the trek combines the cultural richness of Kathmandu and Pokhara with a genuinely off-the-beaten-path mountain experience.
One of the most distinctive aspects of this trek is its intimate proximity to Machhapuchhre. Few other trails in Nepal bring trekkers this close to the iconic peak, making it a favorite among photographers and mountain lovers seeking a unique perspective.
The trek also offers a quieter, more peaceful alternative to Nepal's busier trekking routes. With fewer trekkers along the trail, Mardi Himal provides a more personal and undisturbed connection with the Himalayan landscape, while still maintaining comfortable lodges and a well-marked trail.
The descent route through Sidhing village and Lwang Ghale adds further distinction to this trek, introducing an organic farming community and a different perspective of local mountain life rarely seen on the standard ascent route alone.
Combined with its dramatic ridge walks, unforgettable close up mountain views, and rich cultural stops along the way, the Mardi Himal Trek offers an adventure unlike any other trek in the Annapurna region.

Packing Tips for Mardi Himal Trek

Packing appropriately is essential for a comfortable trekking experience, since temperatures vary significantly between Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the higher elevations near High Camp and Base Camp. Layering your clothing is the most effective approach for staying comfortable throughout the trek.
Essential clothing includes a warm down jacket, waterproof jacket, fleece layer, thermal base layers, trekking pants, moisture wicking shirts, gloves, a warm hat, and quality hiking socks. Comfortable, well broken in trekking boots with good ankle support are particularly important given the steep sections near High Camp and Base Camp.
Other recommended items include a daypack, reusable water bottle, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, headlamp, power bank, camera, personal medications, and a basic first aid kit. Since the hike to Base Camp involves an early start in cold temperatures, packing warm layers for this stage is especially important.
Although teahouses provide blankets, carrying a lightweight sleeping bag is recommended, particularly for overnight stays at High Camp where temperatures can drop significantly.

Mardi Himal Trek Distance and Daily Walking Hours

The Mardi Himal Trek covers approximately 55 to 60 kilometers of trekking in total, spread across six trekking days between Phedi and Lumre. The route involves a significant elevation gain, climbing from 2,100m (6,890ft) at Deurali to 4,460m (14,632ft) at Base Camp, before descending through an entirely different route to Sidhing village and Lumre.
Trekkers typically walk between three and seven hours per day, with the most demanding days falling on the climb from Forest Camp to High Camp and the long descent from High Camp to Sidhing village. Shorter days occur at the start and toward the end of the trek, allowing for a more balanced overall pace.
The itinerary is carefully structured to combine gradual altitude gain with manageable daily walking distances, allowing trekkers to fully enjoy the mountain scenery, village culture, and rewarding hike to Base Camp without feeling rushed at any point in the journey.

route Day-by-Day Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m / 4,264ft)

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you can relax or explore the lively streets of Thamel. In the evening, you will attend a detailed trek briefing where your guide reviews the itinerary and prepares you for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft)

After breakfast, you will begin a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The route follows rivers, terraced fields, and hillside settlements while offering pleasant views of the countryside. On arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure by the lakeside. <br>Driving Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours

Day 3: Drive to Phedi and Trek to Deurali (2,100m / 6,890ft)

After breakfast, you will drive from Pokhara to Phedi, the starting point of the trek. From here, the trail climbs steadily through forest sections and small settlements, offering early views of the Annapurna range and the Pokhara valley below. You will reach Deurali by the afternoon, where you will spend the night at a simple lodge surrounded by forest. <br>Driving Duration: 30 to 45 minutes<br>Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Day 4: Trek from Deurali to Forest Camp (2,520m / 8,268ft)

Today's trail continues through dense rhododendron and oak forest, gradually gaining elevation along a quiet ridge. The route offers occasional clearings with views of the surrounding hills before reaching Forest Camp, a peaceful overnight stop tucked within the tree line. <br>Walking Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Day 5: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (4,100m / 13,451ft)

The trail from Forest Camp to High Camp involves a longer and more demanding climb, passing through thinning forest before opening into alpine terrain. As the trees give way to open ridgeline, panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and the Annapurna range begin to unfold. High Camp sits in a dramatic alpine setting and serves as the base for the following day's hike to Base Camp. <br>Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Day 6: High Camp, Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,460m / 14,632ft)

Today is the highlight of the trek. After an early start, you will hike from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp, a steep and challenging climb rewarded with unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After spending time at Base Camp taking in the scenery, you will descend back to High Camp for an overnight stay. <br>Walking Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Day 7: Trek from High Camp to Sidhing Village (1,700m / 5,577ft)

Today involves a long descent along a different route from the one used on the way up. The trail drops steadily through forest and hillside terrain before reaching Sidhing village, a quiet settlement offering a different perspective of local mountain life compared to the busier trekking villages higher up the route. <br>Walking Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Day 8: Trek to Lumre, Drive to Pokhara

The final trekking day takes you from Sidhing through the organic farming village of Lwang Ghale, where you can observe traditional farming practices in a peaceful rural setting. From here, the trail continues to Lumre, where a private vehicle will meet you for the drive back to Pokhara. <br>Walking Duration: 3 to 4 hours<br>Driving Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Day 9: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,300m / 4,264ft)

After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu along the same scenic highway. On arrival, you will transfer to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. <br>Driving Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours

Day 10: Final Departure

Your Mardi Himal Trek comes to an end today. Depending on your flight schedule, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.

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