Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

Duration10 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4450 M
Group Size1-12
StartsKathmandu / Pokhara
EndsPokhara / Kathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking / Hiking
Best TimeThrough out the Year

What if someone told you there is a trek where cows, clouds, and huge mountains are your only company? You wouldn’t believe it right? That is what the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is like. You walk up to High Camp and the base camp while seeing Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli all around you. Every turn gives you a new view and a reason to stop for a moment.

The trek is full of little surprises that make it fun. One minute you’re walking under a sky full of clouds, the next you’re seeing peaks that look straight out of a postcard. Mornings at High Camp are worth waking up early for, with the changing light making the mountains look completely different each day.

You don’t have to rush or worry about anything. Go at your own pace, pause where it feels right, and follow the trail wherever it leads. The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is one of those Nepal trekking adventures that sneaks up on you and sticks in your memory. You get to explore the Annapurna region trekking trails, see mountains like Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South up close, and enjoy an adventure trek in Nepal that’s quiet, fun, and totally different from the usual crowded paths.

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Overview

If you are looking for one of the best trekking destinations in Nepal that is short, easy, and not crowded, Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect pick. The trail starts near Pokhara and goes up to Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,500 meters. It opened for international trekkers in 2012, so it is still quieter than other popular trails in the Annapurna region.

The trek passes through small villages where locals are friendly and welcoming. The path changes as you climb, from green forests to alpine areas. Keep your eyes open for the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s colorful national bird.

At the base camp, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri rise right in front of you. Machhapuchhre looks so close it almost feels like you could touch it. There is also a viewpoint before the base camp where the mountains line up perfectly for photos.

Most trekkers complete this route in five to seven days or even more. The trails are peaceful, the villages are welcoming, and the scenery is some of the best in Nepal without the crowds. If you want a short, easy trek with amazing views near Pokhara, Mardi Himal is definitely worth it.

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

  • A short and easy trek that’s perfect if you don’t have a lot of time.
  • Quiet trails, so you won’t run into crowds like Annapurna Base Camp.
  • Small villages with friendly locals along the way.
  • Chance to see the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird.
  • Reach Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters with amazing mountain views.
  • Get close to Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri.
  • A viewpoint before the base camp gives a perfect spot for photos.

Mardi Himal Trek 9 days Itinerary from Kathmandu

The Mardi Himal Trek is a stunning 9-day journey that starts with your arrival in Kathmandu, where you can explore the city and its famous cultural landmarks like Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. After sightseeing and preparing for the trek, you travel to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, either by a scenic 6-hour drive or a 35-minute flight.

The trek begins from Pokhara and takes you through Kande, Australian Base Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and finally Mardi Himal Base Camp. Along the way, you pass through forests and charming Gurung villages like Deurali and Siding, where you can experience the local Buddhist culture and hospitality. Low Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp offer unreal views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and surrounding peaks.

After reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp and enjoying the spectacular mountain scenery, the trail descends back to Siding, and you return to Pokhara to relax. The journey concludes with your drive or flight back to Kathmandu.

Pokhara to Mardi Himal Base Camp – 5 Days Itinerary

This 5 day journey will take you from Pokhara up to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back. You will pass small villages, maybe see Nepal’s colorful national bird, and get amazing views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna mountains. Each day is easy to follow and full of great scenery.

Day Itinerary Elevation Duration  
1 Drive to Kande and trek to Deurali 2,100 m 6 hours
2 Trek to Low Camp 3,050 m 6-7 hours
3 Trek to High Camp 3,580 m 5-6 hours
4 Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and trek back to Siding 4,500 m to 1,750 m 8-9 hours
5 Drive back to Pokhara 820 m 4 hours

How much does it cost for Mardi Himal Trek 2026/2027

The cost of the Mardi Himal Trek depends on how long you want to trek, the level of service, and whether you go solo or with a group. Nepal Trekking Routes offers a 10-day package for $690 per person. If you go with a bigger group, the price goes down because you can share expenses.

You can trek solo to save on costs, or join a guided Mardi Himal Trek for extra comfort and support. We are also happy to offer private tours where you can set your own pace, add cultural stops, or customize your itinerary.

For those who want the easiest option, our luxury Mardi Himal Trek includes premium lodges, private transport, and guides and porters taking care of everything. We are one of the best operators for Mardi Himal Trek and can even arrange last-minute bookings, though it’s always better to book in advance to get the best price and availability.

Mardi Himal Trek Package 

If you’re thinking about trekking to Mardi Himal, we’ve got a package for every style. You can go solo to save some money, join a guided Mardi Himal Trek package for extra support, or choose a private Mardi Himal Trek package to set your own pace and add cultural stops. For those who want comfort without compromise, our luxury Mardi Himal Trek package includes premium lodges, private transport, and guides and porters taking care of everything so you can just enjoy the views.

We are one of the best operators for Mardi Himal Trek packages and can handle groups or fully customized trips. Prices depend on how long you trek, the type of package, and whether you’re going solo or with friends. No matter which package you pick, you’ll get an easy, fun, and unforgettable experience with some of the best mountain scenery Nepal has to offer. 

Permits required for the Mardi Himal Trek

If you’re doing the Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll need a couple of permits. One is the ACAP permit, which stands for Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. This lets you enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and supports local communities along the trails. The other is the TIMS card, short for Trekkers’ Information Management System, which registers all trekkers in Nepal so authorities know you’re on the trail.

You can get both in Pokhara before you start your trek, or if you’re going with our guide, they’ll usually take care of it for you.

What can travelers expect from the Mardi Himal base camp trek?

If you take the Mardi Himal trek, you start from Pokhara and head up through small villages where people are super friendly. The trails aren’t packed with crowds, so you can stop, take photos, or just look around whenever you want.

Keep an eye out for the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s colorful national bird. By the time you hit Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters, you’re right in front of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. Each day has its own little adventure, and it’s short enough to do in a few days without feeling rushed.

Who is the Mardi Himal Trek suitable for?

If you want to see incredible mountains without the crowds, the Mardi Himal Trek is a great choice. You do not need to be a hardcore trekker, just reasonably fit for a few days of walking. Solo travelers, friends, or small groups will have a lot of fun. Along the way you will pass small villages and enjoy up close views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna mountains.

Why choose Nepal Trekking Routes for your Mardi Himal journey?

We are a local travel company and we know Mardi Himal inside out. Our team offers authentic service, personalized guidance, and extra add-on services so your trek is exactly how you want it. We also care about the communities we work with and give back through local projects, and above all, your safety is our top priority. Choosing us means you get a real Nepal experience, support local people, and can enjoy the trek without worrying about anything.

Itinerary

This is a 10-day plan for the Mardi Himal Trek. You’ll start in Kathmandu, spend a day exploring the city, then drive to Pokhara to get ready for the trek. From Kande, the hike begins through small villages up to Low Camp and High Camp, with the main day being Mardi Himal Base Camp. After that, you head back down to Siding and return to Pokhara and Kathmandu for your flight home.

The trek has plenty of highlights. You’ll see mountains like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, walk along peaceful trails, and experience life in small mountain villages. Reaching the base camp is the key highlight, and the views along the way make the Annapurna region unforgettable.

The plan is flexible. Nepal Trekking Routes can adjust it for your pace, add rest days, or include extra sightseeing so your Mardi Himal Trek fits exactly how you want it.

Trip PlanExpand All

As soon as you arrive at the Kathmandu Airport, the representative of Nepal Trekking Routes welcomes you there. Then, s/he transfers you to the hotel for your accomodation. You can walk around the tourist center Thamel and purchase some trekking gears. In the evening, the team leader instructs you all about Mardi Himal trek itinerary.

Today, the tour guide of our agency takes you around the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the valley. You'll visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple and Bouddhanath Stupa.  After completing Kathmandu excursion, you can go for shopping to take some souvenirs to your people in your home town. In the evening, the agency organizes farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant around Thamel area.

 

You have your breakfast and start the roadway trip to Pokhara, the most popular tourist hub of Nepal. While driving alongside the Prithvi Highway, you enjoy the snowcapped peaks of Manaslu region and wonderful terrain. The high altitude villages and green forests just below the deserted land also accompany you till you reach the destination. When you reach Pokhara hotel, you can explore the major touristic destinations of the city. If time favors, you can go boating on the Phewa Lake or try some adventure sports item as well.

After breakfast, a private jeep takes you to Kande via Australian Base Camp enjoying the Himalayan view. After taking lunch nearby Australian Camp, you move ahead towards Pothana, another stopover during Mardi Himal trek. After getting your Annapurna Conservatin Area Project permit checked at Pothana, you follow the trail uphill to reach Deurali for the night stop.

 

While having tea break, you enjoy the early sunrise view of Annapurna South and Mt. Machhapuchhre. Afterwards, following the trail that goes past Forest Camp (2,600m), you begin your journey towards Low Camp. Moving along the trail that goes through the dense rhododendron forests, you reach Low Camp relishing the beautiful mountain vistas. It is a vantge point for having a perfect view of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal. You can take a short hike to BadalDanda(Cloud Hillock) that give a better view of the amazing landscapes and silvery mountains. Overnight stay at a local teahouse at Low.

 

By leaving BadalDanda far behind, you follow the track passing through the rhododendron forests witnessing some birds. Your journey to High Camp becomes more memorable while enjoying the enthralling view of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal. Moving ahead through the rhododendron forests, you reach Middle Camp. You may have occasional glimpses of Lophophorus, the national bird of Nepal. Overnight stay at a teahouse.

Today is the most important day of the entire Mardi Himal trekking package as you reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. Enjoying the morning view of the Annapurna region, you ascend further towards the final destination of this trek. Mardi Himal Base Camp serves as the bestview point to have picturesque view eye-catching Himalayas, beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna of Annapurna region. Don’t forget to capture the incredible scenery in your camera and your memory!

Afterwards, you move downhill route to Siding village for the night rest. Siding is a beautiful traditional village on the lap of the Annapurna Himalayan Range, which is noted for its homestay facilities. Using homestay facility helps you to taste the delicious cuisines prepared and served by the local people. Likewise, you can better know about the culture, tradition and lifestyle of the local people while eating in the same kitchen with them!

After having breakfast, you begin the journey back to Pokhara in a private jeep or bus from Sidding. Driving along the off-road, you arrive until Hemja and finally Pokhara. Then, you will be relocated in the hotel. In the remaining time, you can take a tour around the lake city Pokhara. Go around the places you couldn’t manage to explore earlier. You can experience the night life in the Lake Side by tasting the delicious food items and beverage.

 

You are going back to Kathmandu by driving along the same route you had followed a little earlier. Driving along the Prithvi Highway, by enjoying the natural and cultural features around, you arrive Kathmandu in about 7 hours. Then, our crewmember transfers you to the hotel. In the spare time, you can visit the nearby areas from the hotel.

You have come to the end of Mardi Himal Base Camp trek 9 days’ itinerary. Thus, the team member of the company escorts you up to the Kathmandu Airport to meet your flight.

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Cost Details
Includes

Transport Service

  • Airport pickups and drop off service in private vehicle.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing vehicle service
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara Tourist Bus service (round trip)
  • Pokhara to Phedi or Kande Round trip Private vehicle service

Hotel Accommodation 

  • 3 Star Level Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu 3 Nights and Pokhara 2 Nights with Breakfast in twin sharing bed. 
  • Basic Tea House Accommodation during the trek

Meal 

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during the Trekking
  • farewell dinners with cultural program.
  • Breakfast during the Kathmandu and Pokhara stay

Trekking Guide and Porter 

  • An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader.
  • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter) and Porter carry 25kg maximum

Reward and other service

  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
  • T-shirt and trekking map are yours to take.
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS).
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader).
  • All government and local taxes.
Excludes
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks, beverages, hot shower, extra accommodation in kathmandu
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (without itinerary)
Route Map
Mardi Himal Trek
Essential Information

Best Season for the Mardi Himal Trek 

Picking the right season for your Mardi Himal Trek makes a big difference in what you see and how much fun you have. The weather, trail conditions, and mountain views all change throughout the year, so knowing the best time to go helps you enjoy the trek fully and safely. Choosing the right season also improves your chances of clear skies for photography and makes the trek easier to manage.

Mardi Himal Trek in Spring

Spring, from March to May, is when the mountains come alive with color. Flowers bloom along the trails and the paths are easy to walk. It’s a great time to see the mountains clearly and enjoy lively villages along the way.

Mardi Himal Trek in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, is perfect after the monsoon. The air is fresh, the mountains really stand out, and the trails are comfortable to hike. It’s ideal for anyone who wants classic mountain views without worrying about rain.

Mardi Himal Trek in Monsoon

Monsoon, from June to August, can be messy. Rain makes the trails muddy and slippery, landslides are possible, and clouds often hide the peaks. This season is only for trekkers who don’t mind getting wet and are okay with limited views.

Mardi Himal Trek in Winter

Winter, from December to February, brings cold temperatures and sometimes snow at higher points. The mountains can look stunning, and the trails are less busy, but you’ll need warm clothes and a bit of stamina for the chillier sections.

Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek 

During the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, you stay in small tea houses and lodges run by local families along the trail. Rooms are simple with twin beds, pillows, and thick blankets. In villages like Deurali or Forest Camp, you might get a few extra comforts, but as you go higher to Low Camp and High Camp, the lodges become more basic and bathrooms are usually shared.

One fun thing about Mardi Himal trekking accommodation is the dining room. Almost every lodge has a big stove in the middle, and in the evenings trekkers gather around it to stay warm, eat, and share stories from the trail. Electricity can be limited in higher places, and sometimes WiFi works only when the weather is good. It is simple living, but that is part of the real Mardi Himal Trek experience in the Annapurna region.

Food during the trek

Food on the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is simple but hits the spot after a long day of walking. Most tea houses serve things like dal bhat, fried rice, noodles, soups, potatoes, and eggs. Dal bhat is what most trekkers go for because it’s filling and you can usually get seconds.

As you climb higher on the Mardi Himal Trek, the menu gets smaller since all the ingredients are carried up by porters or mules. Even then, a hot plate of food and a cup of tea in the evening feels pretty amazing after a full day on the trail.

Mardi Himal Trek Packing List

If you’re heading out on the Mardi Himal Trek, pack clothes you can layer. Bring a warm jacket, a rain jacket just in case it rains, and comfy trekking clothes. Good shoes are a must, and trekking poles make the uphill parts way easier. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, sunglasses, and a small backpack to keep water, snacks, and your stuff handy.

You’ll also want a water bottle, a headlamp, sunscreen, and a tiny first aid kit. If you’re trekking in winter, grab some extra warm clothes and maybe a sleeping bag since the higher lodges can get really cold at night. Pack smart, and trust us, the trek will feel way more enjoyable and stress free.

Travel Insurance for the Mardi Himal Trek 

Before going on the Mardi Himal Trek, it is a good idea to get travel insurance. You never know when accidents, sickness, or sudden changes in weather might happen, so having insurance keeps you safe. Make sure your policy covers trekking up to 4,500 meters, emergency evacuation, and medical treatment.

Many trekking companies in Nepal ask for proof of insurance before the trek. It is a small cost compared to what an emergency could cost, and it lets you enjoy the Mardi Himal Trek without worrying about problems along the way.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies during the trek

On the Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll be climbing up to around 4,500 meters, so some people might feel a bit off from the altitude. You could get a headache, feel dizzy, or just really tired. It happens to everyone, even if you’re used to hiking.

The best thing to do is take your time, drink plenty of water, and rest if you need to. Eat light meals and don’t push yourself too hard on the way up. If you start feeling worse, it’s always safest to go down a bit and give your body a break. Paying attention to how you feel makes the trek way more enjoyable.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty

The Mardi Himal Trek difficulty is usually considered moderate. You don’t need climbing skills, but you should be comfortable walking about 5 to 7 hours a day on mountain trails. Some sections are quite steep, especially between Low Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp.

The highest point of the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is around 4,500 meters, so the thin air can make the climb feel harder near the top. Many first time trekkers still choose this route because it is shorter than most treks in the Annapurna region, and with decent fitness and a steady pace most people complete it without major difficulty.

Managing Money on the trek 

While trekking to Mardi Himal Base Camp, it’s a good idea to carry enough cash with you because there are no ATMs on the way. Tea houses and lodges along the trail usually only take Nepalese rupees, so make sure you have enough to cover meals, stays, and little extras like snacks or tips.

Higher up, lodges might not have change for bigger bills, so small notes come in handy. Bringing a bit of extra cash for hot drinks or souvenirs makes the trek smoother, letting you focus on the Mardi Himal Trek experience instead of worrying about money.

Is there any age restriction on this trek? 

There are no strict age restrictions for the Mardi Himal Trek. Regardless of age, trekkers should have a basic level of fitness. Families with kids or seniors often plan short treks in Nepal with more rest days. This Annapurna region trekking focuses on Low Camp or High Camp instead of reaching Base Camp. Also they can hire porters to reduce the strain of carrying a heavy backpack.

Safety Measures during the Trek 

The Mardi Himal Trek is amazing, but it can get tough at times. Listen to your body, take breaks when you need, and watch out for tricky spots. A little care goes a long way and helps you enjoy the trek without any worries.

  • Take your time and listen to your body, especially as you go higher
  • Drink plenty of water and keep eating to stay energized
  • Rest whenever you feel dizzy, tired, or notice signs of altitude sickness
  • Stick to the main trail and avoid shortcuts, especially on steep or slippery parts
  • Check the weather before starting your hike each day
  • Wear good hiking shoes and use trekking poles if you need extra balance
  • Keep your cash, documents, and valuables in a safe place
  • Let someone know your route or hike with a guide for added safety
  • Don’t push yourself too hard, slowing down can be the safest choice
  • Carry a small first aid kit and basic medicines for minor problems
FAQs

The trek usually takes about 5 to 10 days, depending on your pace. Some people prefer a shorter 5-day trek, while others take extra days to rest or explore Pokhara along the way. Either way, you will enjoy the trek to its fullest.

You can trek solo if you feel confident with maps and navigation, but having a local guide makes the trek safer and easier. A guide can also help with lodges, meals, and local culture along the trail. Our guides are experts in these aspects so don't hesitate to reach out. 

Yes, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance for the Mardi Himal Trek. You never know what might happen on the trail, so it’s better to be safe. Make sure your insurance covers trekking up to 4,500 meters and emergency help just in case. Having it means you can relax and enjoy the trek without worrying too much.

Absolutely! The plan isn’t set in stone. Nepal Trekking Routes can help you add extra rest days, see more sights, or go at a pace that feels comfortable. That way your Mardi Himal Trek is exactly how you want it, no stress, just fun.

Totally! Even if it’s your first trek, you can do the Mardi Himal Trek as long as you’re reasonably fit. Just take your time, go at your own pace, and a local guide can make everything much easier and more fun.

Not really. The Mardi Himal Trek is much quieter than other treks in the Annapurna region. You’ll get plenty of space on the trails and can enjoy the mountains and villages without bumping into a lot of other trekkers.

The views on the Mardi Himal Trek are just stunning. You’ll see Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri up close, walk along ridges, explore valleys, and pass through little mountain villages. Every day has something new to enjoy, and the scenery keeps getting better as you go higher.

Not really. You don’t need any climbing gear. Just bring comfy hiking shoes, trekking poles if you like, some warm layers, and a rain jacket. That’s all you need to enjoy the Mardi Himal Trek. Make sure you pack efficiently.

One of the popular treks in Annapurna region, Mardi Himal trek lies in Gandaki Province of Nepal.  The stunning view of Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchhre and Mt. Mardi including wonderful landscapes and ethnic villages are the rewards of this trek. To begin this trek, you can either drive along the Prithvi Highway or fly to Pokhara. Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes about 7 hours while flight takes just 35 minutes.

We recommend you to do this trek as there are many benefits of this. First of all, this is a moderate type of trekking that even the beginners can do it. The ethnic villages in the middle of the rhododendron forests that preserves different species of birds are equally beautiful.  The amazing vistas of the snow-clad peaks of Annapurna region from Mardi Himal Base Camp just incredible! If you make this trek in spring, the rhododendron forests decorate the entire region with really colourful flowers. The typical Nepali cuisines served at the best hospitality during homestay facility is another reason for visiting area.

Talking about Mardi Himal Short trek difficulty, it is moderate type of trekking in which you have to reach the highest elevation 4,500m. The trekking trail to Mardi Himal Base Camp is not much strenuous and you don’t have to walk too long as well. As there is not any high pass, even the beginners can do this trek without any difficulty.

There is less possibility for altitude sickness during this trek. First of all, you don’t have to cover too long distance. So, walk slowly by taking enough rest. Similarly, have enough water and hygienic food. Avoid cigarette and alcohol consumption. If you feel any symptom, inform to the trekking guide who helps you avoid it or recover from it.

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