The combined Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal's most captivating adventures, offering the perfect blend of popular trekking routes and tranquil, lesser-known trails. Nestled within the Annapurna Conservation Area, this trek immerses you in the rich biodiversity, spectacular alpine vistas, and cultural tapestry of the Himalayas. Starting from the vibrant city of Pokhara, the journey takes you through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, cascading waterfalls, and high-altitude meadows before culminating at two iconic base camps: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters) and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters).
The trek first guides you to Annapurna Base Camp via a trail shared with the famed Ghorepani Poon Hill route, offering majestic views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other towering peaks. After witnessing the awe-inspiring amphitheater of mountains from ABC, the route transitions toward the Mardi Himal section—a more secluded and pristine experience. Here, trekkers are treated to close-up views of Machhapuchhre, enchanting forest trails, and panoramic ridge walks.
The ideal seasons for the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring offers vibrant rhododendron blooms, pleasant temperatures, and clearer skies. Autumn is the most popular season due to stable weather and crystal-clear mountain views, making it perfect for photography and high-altitude trekking. While winter (December to February) is colder and snow-covered, it still attracts trekkers seeking solitude. Monsoon (June to August) is not recommended due to slippery trails and leeches.
For a safe and comfortable trek, the following gear is essential:
Accommodation is provided in teahouses—simple lodges run by local families. Rooms typically have twin beds with shared bathrooms. Annapurna Base Camp teahouses can be fully booked during peak season; early booking is advisable.
Meals include traditional dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), pasta, momos, soups, and pancakes. Meals are freshly cooked, but options decrease at higher altitudes.
One ACAP permit is valid for both Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal trails as they fall within the same conservation area.
The ACAP permit supports conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and community development. It also helps regulate tourism for environmental protection and safety monitoring.
Safety is paramount. Stay hydrated, acclimatize properly, and do not rush. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Always inform your guide if feeling unwell.
Carry medicines for
Boiled water is available at teahouses. To minimize plastic waste, use purification tablets or filters for tap or stream water.
Hiring a guide ensures safety and cultural insights. A porter carries your gear (typically up to 20kg), allowing you to trek comfortably. Guides and porters are trained and familiar with emergency protocols.
Trekkers can opt for:
Pokhara offers relaxation and adventure. Enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, visiting caves, waterfalls, and experiencing vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place to unwind post-trek.
Mandatory for trekkers and recommended for guides/porters. It must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations.
WiFi is available in many teahouses for a small fee. We provide Nepali SIM cards with data for reliable communication.
Rooms can be scarce during peak season. We recommend early arrival or advance booking to secure a bed.
Carry Nepali Rupees. Exchange or withdraw cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara. ATMs are unavailable along the trail.
Be polite, dress modestly, and follow local customs. Respect religious sites and ask before taking photographs.
Start the trek with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kimche via Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar. Begin your hike to Chhomrong through terraced fields and charming Gurung settlements, soaking in views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
After breakfast, descend to the Chhomrong Khola and cross a suspension bridge before climbing through forests to reach Sinuwa, and then continue through dense woods to Bamboo. The day offers both cultural and natural beauty.
Continue ascending through damp bamboo forests, passing Dovan and Himalaya. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you approach Deurali, located on the ridge above the Modi Khola river.
One of the most rewarding days, you pass Machhapuchhre Base Camp and gradually ascend to Annapurna Base Camp. Surrounded by snow peaks, this amphitheater is a breathtaking highlight of the trek.
Wake early to catch sunrise at ABC before retracing your steps downhill through the sanctuary and back to Bamboo. The descent offers different perspectives of the majestic peaks.
Descend to Chhomrong and take a steep downhill trail to Jhinu Danda. End the day with a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot springs located by the river.
Leave the ABC route and transition to the Mardi Himal trail. Trek through quiet forests of rhododendron and oak, gradually gaining elevation and remoteness.
Ascend through thinning forests to Low Camp and then across alpine meadows to High Camp. Stunning views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range dominate the horizon.
Begin before dawn to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp and enjoy sunrise over the mountains. After soaking in the views, descend steeply to Low Camp through forests.
Finish the trek with a descent to Kande, passing through villages and farmland. Drive back to Pokhara for rest and celebration.
Arrivals & Departures
Pre-Trek Comfort
All Permits Handled
Experienced Team
Mountain Lodging
Travel Made Easy
Essential Gear Provided
Stay Hydrated & Fueled
Stay Connected
Your Safety First
Trek Guide Map
Eco-Conscious Travel
No Hidden Fees
Meals in City and Trek
Extra Drinks & Snacks
Additional Stays
Tips for GUide and Porter/drive
Guest Travel Insurance
Unexpected Costs
City Tours
Flights & Visa
Personal Trekking Gear
Extras on the Trail
The Annapurna Base Camp trek typically takes 7 to 12 days, depending on the chosen route and pace. The Mardi Himal trek usually spans 5 to 8 days, with the duration varying based on the itinerary and acclimatization needs.
Both treks are considered moderate. The ABC trek reaches an altitude of 4,130 meters, while the Mardi Himal trek ascends to 4,500 meters. While prior trekking experience isn't mandatory, good physical fitness is essential.
The optimal trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering clear skies and favorable weather conditions.
HimalayanWindows
Yes, both treks require the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
Teahouses are common along both routes, providing basic lodging with shared facilities. Rooms are typically twin-sharing with communal bathrooms.
Himalayan Glacier
Teahouses offer a variety of meals, including local dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) and international options such as pasta and pancakes. Vegetarian meals are widely available.
Bottled water is available for purchase, but to reduce plastic waste, it's recommended to use water purification tablets or filters for tap or stream water.
Both treks typically start from Pokhara. You can reach Pokhara from Kathmandu by a 6-8 hour bus ride or a 25-minute flight.
While solo trekking is possible, hiring a guide or porter can enhance safety and ease the physical burden. Guides also provide valuable insights into local culture and geography.
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a rain jacket, a sleeping bag, a first-aid kit, and water purification methods. A detailed packing list can be found here.
Yes, especially on the ABC trek. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. It's crucial to acclimatize properly and ascend gradually.
In case of emergencies, helicopter evacuations can be arranged, provided you have appropriate travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.
Cell phone coverage is available in many areas along the treks, though it may be intermittent. Some teahouses offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but connections can be slow and unreliable.
Himalayan Glacier
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