Overview The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short Himalayan adventures, taking you to the hidden ridge lines beneath the breathtaking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) and the striking […]
Duration: 4 Days
Best Time:
Trip Grade: moderate
Start from and End to
Min to Max Pax in a group
Meals:
Accommodation: Tea House
Highlights
Dramatic ridge walk facing Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.
Walk through lush rhododendron, pine, and magnolia forests.
Chance to observe Gurung villages, traditions, and Himalayan lifestyle.
Reach the stunning Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m).
Perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and natural beauty.
Excellent for photographers—sunrise and sunset views are magical.
Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short Himalayan adventures, taking you to the hidden ridge lines beneath the breathtaking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) and the striking Mardi Himal. Known for its serene trails, pristine rhododendron forests, panoramic ridge walks, and close-up views of the Annapurna range, this trek offers a peaceful alternative to the busier classic routes.
With Himalayan Guide Treks Pvt. Ltd., you’ll experience this journey with highly experienced, government-certified guides, a safety-first approach, ethical trekking practices, and warm Nepali hospitality. Our personalized care, small-group philosophy, and deep knowledge of local culture ensure that every trekker enjoys an authentic, secure, and memorable Himalayan experience.
Who This Trek Is For
The Mardi Himal Trek is ideal for:
Trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Himalayan experience
Beginner to intermediate trekkers in good physical condition
Nature lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers
Families and small groups wanting a peaceful, less crowded trail
Those with limited time but wanting high-altitude adventure
Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal
Spring: March to May:
Spring is one of the most beautiful periods because rhododendrons bloom throughout the lower forests.
Autumn: September to November
Autumn usually provides excellent mountain visibility and comfortable trekking conditions.
Winter: December to February
Winter is possible but temperatures can be very cold, especially at higher elevations.
Monsoon: June to August
Rain can make trails muddy and slippery, although the hills become beautifully green.
Trek Difficulty Level
Difficulty: Moderate – Adventurous
Maximum altitude: 4,500 m
Daily walking: 4–6 hours
Trails involve steep ascents, forest paths, and high mountain ridges
Good fitness is recommended, but no technical climbing is required.
Possible in: December–February (cold but clear) Not recommended: June–August (monsoon)
Required Permits
You will need the following trekking permits:
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Himalayan Guide Treks handles all permits on your behalf.
Rooms are twin-sharing; private rooms available when possible
Meals include Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and continental options
Safe drinking water provided (refill system encouraged for sustainability)
Transportation / How to Reach the Starting Point
Drive or fly from Kathmandu → Pokhara
Short drive to Kande, the starting point of the trek
Return from Dhampus → Pokhara by private vehicle
All transportation is arranged and managed by Himalayan Guide Treks.
Mardi Himal Base Camp
Mardi Himal Base Camp is located at approximately 4,500 meters above sea level, depending on the route and viewpoint used. Standing beneath Machhapuchhre and the surrounding peaks creates one of the most memorable moments of the trek. Early morning is particularly spectacular, when the first sunlight reaches the Himalayan peaks.
Altitude Profile & Acclimatization Notes
The trail gradually ascends from:
Pokhara (860m)
Potana (1,900m)
Forest Camp (2,520m)
Low Camp (2,970m)
High Camp (3,700m)
Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m)
We follow a safe ascent pace with a special acclimatization day at High Camp before the base camp hike.
Weather & Packing Tips
Recommended Gear
Warm down jacket & thermal layers
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Good hiking boots
Gloves, hat, buffs
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Refillable water bottle & purification tablets
Weather Notes
Temperatures drop sharply at night above 3,000m
Mornings are usually clear with chances of clouds in the afternoon
Guide & Porter Support
With Himalayan Guide Treks, you’ll be supported by:
Experienced, certified English-speaking local guides
Strong, insured porters with responsible load limits
Team trained in altitude management, first aid, navigation, and emergency care
Your safety, comfort, and pace are always our priority.
Travel Insurance Requirements
All trekkers must have insurance that covers:
High-altitude trekking
Medical emergencies
Helicopter evacuation (mandatory for Nepal trekking routes)
Please share your policy details before the trek starts.
Local support network throughout the Annapurna region
Your well-being is always our highest concern.
Responsible & Sustainable Travel Tips
To protect the Himalayas:
Carry a reusable bottle
Avoid single-use plastics
Respect local customs and cultural norms
Do not disturb wildlife
Support local lodges and communities
Follow your guide’s instructions on waste management
Himalayan Guide Treks is committed to ethical and eco-friendly trekking.
Why Choose Himalayan Guide Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Highly experienced, certified guides with deep regional expertise
Safety-first approach with trained staff
Personalized care and small group philosophy
Ethical, responsible, and eco-conscious trekking practices
Transparent pricing, reliable logistics, and flexible itineraries
Warm Nepali hospitality offering a truly authentic Himalayan experience
Your journey is not just a trek—it’s a connection to mountains, culture, and people.
Itinerary
If you want tailor-made trip or want to personalize this itinerary, just feel free to contact us. We are always there to help you to make your holiday plan. Contact us
Your Mardi Himal adventure begins with a warm welcome from our guide in Pokhara at around 8:00 AM after breakfast. We then take a scenic one-hour drive to Kande via Hemja and Naudanda along the Pokhara–Baglung highway.
From Kande, the trek starts with a gentle uphill walk through lush forests. Along the way, you’ll pass through Australian Camp and Pothana, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the Annapurna range.
After about 4 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Pitam Deurali, a charming village surrounded by terraced fields perfect for a relaxing lunch break. From here, the trail continues deeper into peaceful forests rich in wildlife and birdlife, including Nepal’s national bird, the Danphe.
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Forest Camp (Kokar), where you’ll stay overnight in a cozy mountain lodge. Basic facilities like WiFi, charging, and hot showers are available (extra cost).
Day 02
Forest Camp – Low Camp – Badal Danda – High Camp
Duration6–7 hours
Altitude3,600 m
AccommodationHigh Camp Guest House
MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, we continue trekking through dense rhododendron and oak forests. The trail gradually ascends to Low Camp and then opens up towards Badal Danda, a stunning ridge known as “Cloud Hill.”
Here, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. As you climb higher, the landscape changes from green forest to alpine terrain.
The final stretch to High Camp includes some narrow ridge trails and steeper climbs. Take it slow and enjoy the scenery. Our guides ensure a comfortable pace. Overnight stay at High Camp with basic lodge facilities.
Day 03
High Camp – Mardi Himal Base Camp – Low Camp
Duration6–7 hours
Altitude4,500 m
AccommodationLodge
MealsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Today is the highlight of the trek. We start early before sunrise and hike up to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
The trail is rocky and includes narrow ridges, but the reward is absolutely worth it. From the top, you’ll witness breathtaking panoramic views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre.
Watching the sunrise over these snow-covered peaks is an unforgettable experience.
After spending some time at the base camp, we descend back to High Camp for lunch and continue down to Low Camp for overnight stay.
Day 04
Low Camp – Sidhing – Pokhara
Duration4–5 hours
Altitude830 m
AccommodationHotel
MealsBreakfast & Lunch
After breakfast, we begin our descent towards Sidhing village. The trail passes through beautiful forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
The walk is mostly downhill and relatively easy, though some sections can be steep. After reaching Sidhing, we take a jeep back to Pokhara, arriving around lunchtime.
Inclusions
What's included
Arrival transfer for international flights
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara (tourist bus)
Teahouse accommodation during the trek
Three meals daily during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit
Group first aid kit and medical supplies
Licensed trekking guide with supporting staff and porters
Staff food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment
Insurance and transportation for support staff
All applicable government taxes
Himalayan Guide Treks T-shirt
What's not included
International airfare and airport taxes
Nepal entry visa fees
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Tips for trekking guides, porters, and local staff
Travel and medical insurance for emergencies
Emergency rescue and evacuation
Personal expenses, including battery charging, laundry, alcoholic and soft drinks, hot showers at teahouses, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The standard itinerary is 12 days, including Kathmandu and Pokhara stays. The trekking part is 7 days.
2. Do I need prior trekking experience?
No. Basic fitness and the ability to walk 4–6 hours per day is enough.
3. What is the highest altitude?
500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp.
4. Are the trails crowded?
No. Mardi Himal is still relatively quiet compared to ABC or Annapurna Circuit.
5. What kind of accommodation is available?
Teahouses with clean beds, warm dining rooms, and simple but hearty meals.
6. What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Your guide is trained to handle AMS. You will descend immediately if needed and emergency evacuation will be arranged.
7. Can I charge my devices on the trek?
Yes, teahouses offer charging—sometimes for a small fee.
8. Is Wi-Fi available?
Available at some lodges, but not guaranteed in higher sections.
9. What should I pack?
Warm layers, trekking boots, waterproof gear, headlamp, medicines, and personal essentials.
10. Can I do the trek solo?
Yes, but trekking with a guide is strongly recommended for safety and navigation.
11. Are vegetarian/vegan meals available?
Yes, most lodges offer veg meals. Vegan options vary but can be arranged.
12. When is the best time for photography?
Early morning at Low Camp and High Camp offers stunning golden light on Machhapuchhre and Annapurna.
