Mardi Himal Trek

Name: Mardi Himal Trek
Brand: Nepal Trekking Routes
Price: 690 USD
Availability: InStock

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Duration10 Days

Trip GradeEasy

CountryNepal

Maximum Altitude4450 M

Group Size1-12

StartsKathmandu / Pokhara

EndsPokhara / Kathmandu

ActivitiesTrekking / Hiking

Best TimeThrough out the Year

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Overview

Leading you towards Nepal, Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most beautiful trekking destinations. It lies in the eastern side of the Annapurna region closer to the lake city Pokhara. It has been open since 2012 for international trekkers, promoting the Nepal tourism industry in this region. Since then, it has been gaining its popularity over and over again among the national and international visitors. Nowadays, people choose this trek instead of the Annapurna Base Camp trek as it is easy and short.

Trekking to Mardi Himal base camp (5,587m/18,330ft) is a wonderful mixture of nature and culture. This Nepal trek is an experience of unspoiled natural vistas, diverse cultures, and beautiful pine, oak, and rhododendron forests including alpine terrain. While moving along the less crowded Nepal Trekking trails, you have glimpses of Lophophorus, the national bird of Nepal.

The Mardi Himal viewpoint offers breathtaking vista of the snowcapped peaks of Annapurna (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m) Massifs. The alluring panorama of snowcapped mountains, lush valleys, dense forests, turquoise lakes, and natural waterfalls is an added beauty. This Annapurna Conservation Area trek is the best package for trekking in Nepal for tourists with limited vacations. From Mardi Himal Base Camp, Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993m) seems as if you can touch it with your hand!

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

Easy trekking trails that pass through clean ethnic villages
The growing tourist destination in Nepal
Rhododendron forests are inhabited by different species of birds
Nepali typical cuisines at homestay facility
Breathtaking views of the snowy peaks of the Annapurna region from Low Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp
Incredible outlook of landscapes cultivated farming land, and Pokhara Valley
The closest view of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) as if just a yard away

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 lush forests, ridges, 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 breathtaking 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

The Mardi Himal Trek starts from Pokhara and goes to Phedi, the trailhead. From there, trekkers walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests up to Forest Camp. The path gradually climbs to Low Camp, providing closer views of Mardi Himal and Machapuchare. You then continue your trek to High Camp and finally hike to Base Camp, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range. The main highlight of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp.

On the descent, the trail passes through Siding Village, a small settlement with traditional houses. Along the way, you can see waterfalls, terraced fields, and forested landscapes. The route then returns to Phedi and finally back to Pokhara. The trek combines peaceful trails with breathtaking mountain views, making the journey scenic and memorable.

5 Days Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking itinerery Outline

Day 01: Drive to Kande (1,770m/5,807ft) and Trek to Deurali (2,125m/6,972ft)-6 Hours
Day 02: Trek to Low Camp (3,150m/10,335ft)-7 Hours
Day 03: Trek to High Camp (3,850m/12,631ft)-5/6 Hours
Day 04: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,764ft), and Trek back to Siding (1,750m/5,741ft)-8/9 Hours
Day 05: Drive to Pokhara-4 Hours

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

The Mardi Himal Trek cost depends on the duration of trek, service level, individual preference and whether group or solo. Nepal Trekking Routes offers 10 Days Mardi Himal Trek Package for $690 per person. If you are trekking with a larger group, the cost will be reduced due to shared expenses. We offer special discount for group trekkers.

You can have various budget options for the Mardi Himal Base CampTrekking.

You can do Mardi Himal Trek solo to save on guide or porter costs.
A Mardi Himal guided tour offers added comfort and support.
A Private Mardi Himal Trek tour offers personalized trekking experience, with customized itinerary, additional cultural stops, or pace adjustment to suit your preferences.
Luxury Mardi Himal Trek includes premium lodges, private transportation, guides and porters.

Nepal Trekking Routes is one of the Mardi Himal Trek best tour operator. We offer Mardi Himal Trek last-minute booking, however it is advised to book your trek in advance.

How to reach Mardi Himal Trek

To get to the Mardi Himal Trek, follow these steps:

Travel to Pokhara: To begin your journey, fly or take a bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Drive to Starting Point: From Pokhara to Mardi Himal trek, take a local bus or private vehicle to Kande or Phedi, common starting point.
Begin Trekking: Start your journey to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Itinerary

The Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary starts with a reception at Kathmandu International Airport, and then sightseeing in Kathmandu the next day. On day three, you drive to Pokhara, enjoying snowcapped peaks, green forests, and high-altitude villages along the Prithvi Highway. From Pokhara, the trek begins with a drive to Kande and a hike to Deurali, followed by trekking to Low Camp and then High Camp. The main highlight is hiking to Mardi Himal Base Camp which provides panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Machapuchare, before descending to Siding Village. The trek concludes with a drive back to Pokhara, then onward to Kathmandu, and finally your departure from Nepal.

Along the way, trekkers pass through lush rhododendron and oak forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced fields. You also walk through small villages, experiencing the local culture and traditional Himalayan lifestyle. Each stop, from Low Camp to High Camp, provides breathtaking views of mountains and valleys, making the journey scenic and memorable. The trek combines peaceful trails with stunning landscapes, offering a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty.

Trip PlanExpand All

Day 01: Reception in the Kathmandu International Airport (1,350m/4,429ft)

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.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

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.

Day 03: Drive to Pokhara (910m/2,986ft)-6 Hours

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.

Day 04: Drive to Kande (1,770m/5,807ft) and Trek to Deurali (2,125m/6,972ft) -6 Hours

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.

Day 05: Trek to Low Camp (3,150m/10,335ft) -7 Hours

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.

Day 06: Trek to High Camp (3,850m/12,631ft) -5/6 Hours

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.

Day 07: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,764ft), and Trek back to Siding (1,750m/5,741ft) - 8/9 Hours

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!

Day 08: Drive to Pokhara -4 Hours

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 Nayapul 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.

Day 10: Drive Back to Kathmandu -7 Hours

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.

Day 10: Final Departure

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

Essential Information

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most underrated yet spectacular treks in Nepal. It offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal itself. The trails are quieter compared to popular treks like the Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks. Here is useful information you need to know:

Duration: The Mardi Himal Trek duration is customizable and takes around 10 days.
Accessibility: The trek starts from Kande which is accessible from Pokhara. You can take a private jeep or a public bus from Pokhara to Kande.
Difficulty: The trek is moderately challenging and is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness.
Distance:Mardi Himal Trek distance ranges from 40 to 42 km, depending on the chosen route.

Mardi Himal Trek Permits and Fees

The Mardi Himal Trek Nepal falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you’ll need the following permits:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): $30 per person
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System): $10 for group trekkers; $20 for solo trekkers

These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Mardi Himal Trek Packing List

Packing light is recommended. You should be prepared for varying weather conditions and trail needs. Here are the list of trekking essentials:

Clothes: Warm layers (windproof jackets), trekking pants, comfortable shirts, and gloves.
Footwear: Trekking boots and lightweight sandals.
Gear: A sturdy backpack, trekking poles, sleeping bag, and headlamp.
Essentials: Waterbottle, toiletries, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and personal medications.

Accommodation and Food

Accommodation: Teahouses offer basic accommodations with simple rooms, twin beds with blankets.
Food: Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali Meal), noodles, soups, fried rice, pancakes, etc. Prices increase with altitude due to transportation difficulty.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty

Trekking the Mardi Himal is relatively easy. However, it can be challenging for begnners. Here are the challenges you need to consider:

Altitude: Although the trek is short, reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500m requires caution regarding altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is essential to prevent Mardi Himal Trek altitude sickness.
Weather: Rapid weather changes at high altitudes can bring unexpected cold, rain or snow.
Trail Conditions: The trail is rugged. Some parts can be steep, especially between High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking in Spring Season (March-May): Spring is one of the best season for Mardi Himal Trek. The weather is mild and comfortable. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom adding vibrant colors to the trail. The wild animals are active after the winter hibernation.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking in Autumn Season (September-November): Autumn is a popular time for trekking. The weather is stable with pleasant temperatures. The clear skies offer stunning views of snow-capped peaks. This season offers cultural experiences as major festivals of Nepal are celebrated in this season.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking in Winter Season (December – February): Mardi Himal Trek in winter is possible but very cold. The occasional snow blocks the higher trails making it difficult to pass through. Proper gear and warm clothing are required in this season.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking in Summer/Monsoon Season(June-August): Summer coincides with the monsoon. Heavy rainfall makes the trails slippery, but the landscape is lush and green. There are fewer trekkers and you can have a peaceful trail to yourself during Mardi himal Trek in monsoon.

Why Choose Mardi Himal Trek?

This trek is perfect for Beginners. It is shorter and less demanding compared to other treks in Nepal.

It offers cultural experience. You will stay in traditional villages and interact with locals including Gurung and Magar communities.
This is off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal. It offers a chance to experience Nepal’s natural beauty without large crowds.
You will have quick access due to close proximity to Pokhara. You will spend less time travelling to and from the trailhead.

Age Restrictions

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.

FAQs

Where is Mardi Himal trek?

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.

Why should I do Mardi Himal trek?

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.

Is Mardi Himal trek difficult?

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.

What about altitude sickness during Mardi Himal trek?

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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