Trip overview
Mardi Himal Trek Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a short and scenic trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region. The trail offers close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and other Himalayan peaks. Our 5-day Mardi Himal Trek takes you through rhododendron forests, mountain villages, alpine landscapes, and high mountain viewpoints.
This short trek is a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy the Himalayas without spending many days on the trail.
A Short Trek with Himalayan Views
The Mardi Himal trail offers peaceful paths, beautiful scenery, and friendly village experiences. In just a few days, you can reach an altitude of around 4,500 meters and enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna range.
The trek is suitable for travelers with limited trekking experience. However, the higher sections include steep and rocky trails, so good fitness and proper pacing are important.
The journey starts in Pokhara, a beautiful city known for its lakes and mountain views. From Pokhara, the trail climbs through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
As you gain altitude, the scenery changes from green hills and forests to open ridges, alpine meadows, and snow-covered mountains.
Highlights of the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
One of the main highlights is the hike toward Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). From the upper trail, you can enjoy impressive views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
The hike from High Camp (3,580m) to the Upper Viewpoint takes about 3–4 hours. The trail becomes more open as you climb, giving you wider views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Along the route, you will pass stone huts, simple teahouses, prayer flags, and rocky viewpoints. Compared with the popular Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal trail offers a quieter trekking experience.
Cultural and Natural Experiences During the Mardi Trek
The trail passes through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional mountain villages. You can experience the local culture of the Gurung and Magar communities as you walk through the hills.
Spring is a beautiful time to trek through the lower forests. Rhododendron flowers add bright colors to the trail, while clear weather often brings excellent mountain views.
The Mardi Himal region also has a variety of vegetation and wildlife. You may see different bird species and other Himalayan wildlife along the trail. The landscape changes from temperate forests to alpine vegetation and open grassy meadows as you gain altitude.
The combination of forests, hills, valleys, and snow-covered mountains makes the Mardi Himal Trek a rewarding short adventure.
Itinerary and Trailheads
There are several ways to trek in the Mardi Himal region, with different starting points and itineraries. Our 5-day Mardi Himal Trek follows a practical route from Pokhara to Pokhara with gradual altitude gain and classic overnight stops.
You can also start the trek from Kande, near Australian Camp. Another popular option is to begin from Pitam Deurali, which has become easier to access because of the road network.
Some trekkers also start from Siding Village. This route includes steeper sections, so a gradual itinerary is important. Starting too high and gaining altitude too quickly can make the trek more difficult.
You can also learn more about the Mardi Trekking route. For travelers who need help with local arrangements, we also provide Pokhara porter and guide services.
Why Choose Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek gives you a complete Himalayan experience in a short time. You will walk through forests, villages, open mountain ridges, and high-altitude landscapes while enjoying views of the Annapurna range.
The trail includes some steep climbs and rocky sections. With a steady pace and a suitable itinerary, both new and experienced trekkers can enjoy the journey.
If you want a short and less-crowded trek in Nepal, Mardi Himal is a practical choice. The trek combines mountain scenery, local culture, peaceful trails, and the excitement of reaching a high Himalayan viewpoint.
Even with only five days, you can experience forests, green hills, mountain villages, alpine landscapes, and spectacular Himalayan views.
After your trek, you can spend extra time exploring Pokhara Valley. The city’s lakes, viewpoints, restaurants, and surrounding attractions make it a natural addition to your Mardi Himal holiday.
You can also explore more trekking options through our amazing trekking trips in Nepal.
Side Treks and Expansion from the Mardi Trail
You can extend your Mardi Himal adventure if you have more time. For example, you can combine the route with the Mardi Himal Trek via ABC Trek and continue toward Annapurna Base Camp.
You can also add the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek to enjoy another famous viewpoint in the Annapurna region. The Khopra Ridge Trek is another option for travelers who want to explore more of the Annapurna mountains.
Adding extra days allows you to explore these trails at a comfortable pace and enjoy more of the region.
Himalaya View Treks Pvt. Ltd. can arrange a flexible Mardi Himal itinerary based on your available time and trekking plans. Our travel planners can help you choose the right route, accommodation, transportation, and trekking services.
You can also read our trekking guides and blogs for information about itineraries, accommodation, meals, permits, transportation, and trekking preparation.
Mardi Himal Classic Route Trek
The Mardi Himal Classic Route Trek takes you through peaceful forests, mountain villages, alpine landscapes, and high Himalayan viewpoints. With our experienced trekking team, you can enjoy local hospitality, mountain scenery, and professional support throughout the journey.
If you have five days and want to explore the Everest region instead, our Everest View Short Trek offers another short Himalayan experience.
For travelers who prefer quieter trails, we also offer trekking adventures in the Ganesh Himal Region, with beautiful landscapes, Tamang culture, and views of the Himalayan range.
Whichever route you choose, our team can help you plan a comfortable and well-organized trekking experience in Nepal.
Short Itinerary
Mardi Himal Trek - 5 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande / Phedi and Trek to Deurali (2,100m)
Day 2: Trek from Deurali to Low Camp (2,970m)
Day 3: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3,580m)
Day 4: Early Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) / Upper Viewpoint and Trek Down High Camp.
Day 5: Trek to Siding and Drive Back to Pokhara
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Kande and Trek to Deurali via Australian Camp
Drive from Pokhara to Kande and begin the trek toward Deurali. Walk through beautiful forests and mountain villages via Australian Camp, with views of the Annapurna range and surrounding hills.
Walking time: 4–5 hours | Deurali: 2,005 m (6,578 ft)
Day 02: Deurali to Low Camp
Continue through peaceful forests along the Mardi Himal trail. As you gain altitude, the landscape opens up and you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.
Walking time: 6–7 hours | Low Camp: 2,985 m (9,793 ft)
Day 3: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp
Trek through the forest and along the ridge toward High Camp. The trail becomes more open as you climb higher, offering increasingly impressive views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.
Walking time: 4–5 hours | High Camp: 3,580 m (11,745 ft)
Day 04: Hike to Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint and Return to High Camp
Start early and hike toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint. You can continue toward Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,500 m, depending on weather, trail conditions, and your group’s pace. Enjoy panoramic mountain views before returning to High Camp.
Walking time: 6–7 hours | Mardi Himal Base Camp: Approximately 4,500 m (14,764 ft) | High Camp: 3,580 m (11,745 ft)
Day 05: Trek to Siding and Drive to Pokhara
Descend through forests and traditional villages to Siding. From Siding, drive back to Pokhara and enjoy the scenic journey. Your Mardi Himal Trek ends after arriving in Pokhara.
Walking time: 4–5 hours | Driving time: Approximately 3 hours | Pokhara: 822 m (2,697 ft)
Included
- Pokhara to Kande and Siddding to Pokhara by private car/van/bus depend on group sizes
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your Mardi Himal Trek with 4 nights of teahouse accommodation during the trek.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide familiar with the Mardi Himal route.
- One assistant guide for groups of more than 10 trekkers.
- Guide wages including his meals, accommodation, Salary, and Insurance.
- Equipment for the Company staff
- Water purification drop or tablets for safe drinking water
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day during Mardi Himal Trek
- Oximeter to measure Pulse and oxygen level
- Company T-shirt and duffel bag.
- Local government, taxes, including official Service Charge
- Trip completion certificate
Not Included
- Hotel accommodation and Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery charge fee during the Mardi Himal Trek)
- Personal clothing and trekking gear
- Personal travel insurance including evacuation coverage
- Additional costs if delays flights and outside the itinerary
- All the costs and expenses which are not mentioned in includes list.
- Porter service: USD 20 per day, if required.
- Tips for guide and porters. in end of the treks
Useful Info
Mardi Himal Trip Highlights
Scenic Trails & Alpine Views: Experience quiet, beautiful hikes through lush rhododendron forests, open alpine ridges, and high-altitude meadows.
Panoramas of the Annapurna Range: Enjoy up-close, breathtaking vistas of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli from High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Cultural Immersion: Walk through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, learning about their rich customs, authentic mountain culture, and warm hospitality.
Authentic Teahouse Experience: Relax in cozy, family-run teahouses along the trail, enjoying local hot drinks and friendly conversations with residents.
Unforgettable Sunrises & Sunsets: Wake up to golden morning light over snow-capped peaks and end your days with spectacular valley sunsets.
A Quieter Himalayan Adventure: Enjoy a less-crowded, off-the-beaten-path alternative to the classic Annapurna routes while retaining world-class mountain scenery.
Equipment & Packing List for the Mardi Himal Trek
The following guide outlines recommended clothing and equipment for a safe and comfortable trekking experience in Nepal. While this is a general checklist, individual needs and preferences may vary.
Recommended Footwear
Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with adequate ankle support. Ensure they are well broken in before your trek to prevent blisters.
Camp Shoes: Lightweight trainers, sneakers, or sandals to wear around the teahouses after a day of hiking.
Socks: 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking wool or synthetic trekking socks, plus a pair of thermal socks for higher altitudes.
Gaiters: Recommended for spring or winter treks to keep dust, mud, or snow out of your boots.
Have questions about this trek? Chat with our travel planner directly on WhatsApp (+977 9841146306) for instant replies.
Trip Map
