The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new but rapidly growing trekking route in Nepal. Perfect for those seeking a shorter yet rewarding Himalayan adventure, this trek provides close-up views of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Dhaulagiri range. Due to its moderate difficulty, beautiful landscapes, and peaceful trails, Mardi Himal Trekking has gained immense popularity among both domestic and international trekkers.
Located in the eastern part of the Annapurna region, the trail winds through rhododendron forests, high ridges, and traditional Gurung villages. Unlike more crowded routes like the Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp treks, the Mardi Himal trail offers solitude and serenity, ideal for trekkers looking to avoid the masses.
Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approx. 6 hours) → Taxi to Kande (1 hour) → Trek to Australia Camp (1,890m; approx. 1.5 hours)
Day 02: Trek from Australia Camp to Forest Camp (2,520m; approx. 6 hours)
Day 03: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,970m) or Badal Danda (3,268m; approx. 3-4 hours)
Day 04: Trek from Badal Danda to High Camp (3,540m; approx. 3 hours)
Day 05: Early morning trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,250m) and return to High Camp (approx. 7 hours)
Day 06: Trek to Siding Village (1,700m; approx. 6 hours) → Drive back to Pokhara (approx. 3 hours)
Optional Day 07: Explore Pokhara or return to Kathmandu
The trek begins from Kande, a short drive from Pokhara, and ascends gradually to Australian Camp with its first panoramic mountain views. From there, the trail continues to Pothana and climbs to Deurali, a junction where the Mardi Himal trail diverges into denser forests.
From Deurali, the trail passes through thick forests rich in rhododendron and wildlife as it leads to Forest Camp. As trekkers ascend to Low Camp or Badal Danda, the trees start to thin, and vistas of Machhapuchhre open up dramatically. High Camp, situated at 3,540m, provides stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The most rewarding part of the trek is the climb to Mardi Himal Base Camp. Though the hike is steep and physically demanding, it offers unmatched panoramic views. After the base camp exploration, the descent begins toward Siding Village, a quiet hamlet that showcases the cultural side of the trek.
Preparation is key for a successful Mardi Himal trek. Here are some essentials to consider:
If you're not joining a guided tour, study the route or download GPS-based trekking apps.
The Mardi Himal Trek has a good number of tea houses and lodges along the trail, offering basic accommodation and home-cooked meals. Rooms typically include twin beds with blankets, but carrying a sleeping bag is recommended for colder months.
Meals include typical Nepali dishes such as dal bhat, momos, fried rice, and noodles. Some places offer Western-style breakfast and snacks. While basic, the food is freshly prepared and nutritious—ideal for trekking needs.
To trek in the Mardi Himal region, you'll need:
These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before you begin your trek.
While the trail is straightforward, hiring a licensed guide enhances your safety, navigation, and cultural experience. A porter can help carry your backpack, making the trek more enjoyable and less physically demanding.
Its relatively low altitude compared to other treks reduces the risk of severe altitude sickness, making it perfect for those new to trekking.
Your trek typically starts and ends in Pokhara, a major city in western Nepal. From Pokhara, jeeps or local buses can take you to Kande or Phedi, the common trailheads for the Mardi Himal route.
How to Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Return
You have several travel options between Kathmandu and Pokhara:
Book flights in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons.
Mardi Himal lies in the Annapurna region of central Nepal, to the east of the Annapurna Base Camp trail. It is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area and offers an off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer crowds and equally spectacular views.
One of the main highlights of the trek is the incredible panorama of Himalayan peaks, including:
The sunrise and sunset views from High Camp and Base Camp are unforgettable, with the peaks turning golden in the early light.
Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering grand Himalayan views, cultural interaction, and peaceful trails. Ideal for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike, this trek is a fantastic short Himalayan adventure that fits within a week. With proper planning, preparation, and guidance from Peace Nepal Treks, your journey to Mardi Himal will be safe, scenic, and truly memorable.
For bookings and detailed information, contact Peace Nepal Treks today and let us help you explore one of Nepal’s most breathtaking trekking routes.
Catch the tourist bus from Kathmandu at 7 AM, and enjoy the scenic 6-hour drive to Pokhara, arriving by 3 PM. Afterward, take a 1-hour taxi ride (about 30 km) to Kande. From Kande, it's a 2-hour uphill walk to Australian Camp (2,100m), where you'll enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna region. Stay overnight at Australian Camp.
After breakfast, you’ll begin your trek through the beautiful rhododendron forests, with views of the Annapurna Range gradually opening up. The day involves a steady climb, gaining altitude as you trek towards Forest Camp. The walk is moderate and takes about 5–6 hours, offering a peaceful, quiet atmosphere as you leave behind the main trekking trails. Overnight at Forest Camp.
Today we have a choice, we can go all the way to Badal Danda which sits at 3050m, or we can stop at the Low Camp where there are two lodges with marvelous views of Maccapuchare and the Annapurnas. The trek starts with a fairly steep climb out of the jungle, so it is fairly common for people to decide to rest up and enjoy the views upon arriving at Low Camp. All in all, though, this is not a very strenuous day and there are plenty of photo opportunities once the camp is reached, with Mardi Himal itself also coming into view.
The high camp is at 3900m, so by the time we reach here we are completely above the tree line and breathing will become noticeably more difficult with the thinner air. We will most likely complete our walking by lunchtime which will give time to explore the surroundings and take plenty of photos of the spectacular area in which we will camp.
This is the biggest day of the trek by far. We will start early in the morning to make sure we get the best of the clear weather and give us plenty of time to relax at the Base Camp of Mardi Himal. Situated at almost 4500m, it is quite an achievement to reach here. The view from Base Camp is special indeed, with all the major mountains of the Annapurna range in view. We will have lunch at Base Camp and then return to High Camp. Depending on the time it takes us, we may decide to continue back to Bardal Danda or even Low Camp (it is much faster going down!).
Assuming we stayed at Low Camp the previous night, we will aim to reach Siddhing and catch the local bus or local jeep to Pokhara.
Note: We can book any kind of a night hotel stay in Pokhara upon your request as per your budget. You can have a good relax after long walking on trekking. So for it, you have your own choice of a hotel stay in Pokhara.
Water: Mineral waters are available at all stops during tea house treks (paying your own). You can also use tap water if you choose to use water purification tablets.
Medical support: An emergency first aid kit is carried by the support staff at all times.
Food on a Tea House Trek: During tea house treks, you pay for your meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at the lodges. The cost is usually around USD 30 per person each day. You can pick your meals from a menu at each tea house.
Travel insurance is required for everyone who treks or climbs with us. Your insurance should cover emergencies like accidents, altitude sickness, and ambulance or helicopter rescue costs if needed. Please bring a copy of your insurance papers when you travel to Nepal and send us a copy too. This will help us take care of everything if any emergency happens.
Mardi Himal Trek is situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal, specifically in the north-central part of the country. It starts near Pokhara and lies to the east of the popular Annapurna Base Camp route. The trail winds through dense forests, traditional villages, and high ridgelines, culminating in breathtaking views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range.
The trek typically takes 5 to 7 days, depending on your pace and starting point. Some itineraries can extend to 10 days if you include acclimatization days or add side trips. The short duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time.
The most recommended trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and visibility of the mountains is excellent. Spring offers vibrant rhododendron blooms, while autumn presents crisp air and stunning views post-monsoon.
It is considered a moderate-level trek, suitable for beginners with decent fitness levels. While the trek includes some steep ascents and descents, the trails are well-marked and manageable. No technical climbing skills are needed.
While the trek can be done independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended for navigation, cultural insights, and safety, especially for first-timers. Guides are also helpful in arranging accommodations and meals in advance.
Yes, hiring a porter is common and beneficial. Porters carry your heavy backpack, allowing you to trek comfortably and enjoy the scenery. This also supports the local economy and ensures a safer, less strenuous trek for you.
You’ll need two permits:
These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek.
Tea houses and lodges are available throughout the route. They offer basic rooms with twin beds and shared toilets. Higher altitudes have fewer options, so it's advisable to book in advance during peak seasons.
Meals include local and simple Western dishes such as:
The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500 meters (14,763 ft) above sea level. From here, you’ll have a close-up view of Machapuchare and Annapurna South.
Yes, altitude sickness can occur, especially above 3,000 meters. While the trek’s gradual ascent helps with acclimatization, it's important to stay hydrated, ascend slowly, and recognize early symptoms of AMS (acute mountain sickness).
Key peaks visible include:
13. How do I get to the starting point of the trek?
The trek usually begins from Kande or Phedi, which are accessible from Pokhara by local jeep or bus (1–2 hours). To get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, you can take a tourist bus (6–8 hours), private car, or a 25-minute domestic flight.
Yes, Mardi Himal is safe for solo travelers, but you should be cautious. Always inform someone of your plans, carry maps or GPS, and consider joining other trekkers on the trail. Hiring a guide adds an extra layer of safety.
Mardi Himal is ideal for first-timers because:
This makes it one of Nepal’s best introductory treks.
Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and successful Mardi Himal Trek. While most tea houses provide basic necessities, having your personal trekking equipment ensures safety and preparedness, especially in higher altitudes. Here’s a list of recommended items for trekkers:
Proper gear is essential for a comfortable and safe trekking experience to Mardi Himal Base Camp. Below is a list of the necessary equipment categorized by type:
Upper Body
Lower Body
Accessories
4. Sleeping Essentials
5. Trekking Equipment
6. Personal Essentials
7. Miscellaneous
Spring/Autumn
Winter
Monsoon (Summer)
Tips
This equipment list ensures you’re prepared for the varied weather and terrain of the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek.
Having comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for the Mardi Himal Trek. Although the trek is moderate in difficulty, the altitude, terrain, and remote location mean that medical emergencies, weather delays, or trip cancellations can occur.
Make sure your insurance explicitly covers trekking up to 4,500 meters in elevation. Popular providers for trekking insurance include World Nomads, Allianz, AXA, and SafetyWing.
Carry a copy of your insurance certificate and emergency contact numbers during your trek.
Choosing the right time for your trek is essential to get the most out of the Mardi Himal experience. The weather impacts trail conditions, mountain visibility, and overall enjoyment of the trek.
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