Mardi Himal Trek
Duration
12 days
Activities
Tour and Trekking
Max Altitude
4,100m (13,451ft.)
Group Size
02-08
Expedition Overview
Facts of the trip
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Arrival On
Kathmandu
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Departure From
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Accommodation
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Teahouse basis accommodation during trekking
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Meals
BB plan in Kathmandu and All meals during the trek and expediiton
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Best Time
October-December, February- May
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Transportation
Private Car, Jeep or Van
Nestled in the heart of the Annapurna region, Mardi Himal (5,587m) is a breathtaking peak that offers an unforgettable trekking experience with panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you through lush rhododendron forests, rugged ridgelines, and high alpine meadows, where the serenity of nature is at its finest. With fewer crowds and pristine beauty, the Mardi Himal Trek is a must for those seeking an intimate encounter with the Himalayas.
The journey to Mardi Himal begins from Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From here, you can take a short drive to Kande, Phedi, or Ghandruk, which serve as the starting points for the trek. The trail winds through charming villages, dense forests, and ridges, gradually ascending towards Low Camp (2,970m), High Camp (3,580m), and ultimately Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). The final stretch offers a thrilling ridge walk with breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna range. The descent follows the same or an alternative route through Siding or Landruk, where a jeep ride takes you back to Pokhara. This trek, typically completed in 5 to 7 days, is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and mesmerizing Himalayan scenery.
Highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek
- Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m): The trek culminates at Mardi Himal Base Camp, offering spectacular views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and the Annapurna range. The base camp is less crowded than other trekking destinations, providing a peaceful and intimate experience with the mountains.
- Panoramic Views of the Annapurna Range: Throughout the trek, trekkers are treated to unobstructed panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. The ever-changing mountain vistas, especially at higher altitudes, are a key attraction of the trek.
- Less Crowded and Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Mardi Himal Trek offers a more peaceful alternative to the busier Annapurna Circuit and Ghorepani Poon Hill treks. The route is relatively uncrowded, giving trekkers a more serene and authentic trekking experience while still enjoying incredible mountain views and beautiful nature.
- Diverse Terrain and Forests: The trek takes you through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and bamboo groves, offering diverse landscapes. As the altitude increases, trekkers will pass through lush forests filled with vibrant flowers and wildlife, providing a mix of nature, tranquility, and beauty.
- Local Culture and Villages: Along the route, trekkers pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, where they can experience the warm hospitality of the locals and gain insight into their culture and lifestyle. The villages offer a perfect opportunity to experience the traditional Himalayan way of life.
- Sunset and Sunrise Views: In addition to the stunning views from Mardi Himal Base Camp, trekkers can enjoy beautiful sunrise and sunset vistas along the trail. The light on the snow-capped peaks at dawn and dusk creates a magical atmosphere that adds to the trek’s charm.
The Mardi Himal Trek is an incredible journey for those seeking a shorter trek with magnificent mountain views, cultural immersion, and peaceful surroundings. It’s perfect for trekkers looking for a less commercialized route in the Annapurna region.
Itinerary
Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan intl. airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu (1,300m). After time to get refreshed, evening you will meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and after meal briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 30 Min
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Dinner
Today, morning we will ready after your breakfast to head on for our relaxing guided day trip to world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley and visit the highlights of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. We take you to visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is place of thousand of devotees, Saddhus (holy men/Baba), and can be seen the cremating body most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati. Hundreds of monkeys are giggling with you and take a time to exploring surrounding area and visit Bouddhanath stupa an another pilgrimage centre which is most popular and important place for Buddhist. You can explore with rounding prayer wheel and flattering colorful flag with melodious chanting noise. After your lunch at Bouddha visit Swoyambhunath stupa also known as monkey temple covering wide range of area with highest point of Kathmandu valley and enjoy the 360 degrees of valley view. After exploring the surrounding areas visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square which is old royal palace of Kathmandu and can be seen lot of temple, architectures and Kumari (living goddess) and walk in a freak street and late afternoon back to hotel and evening briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, what to do and does not in the trek? Introduce with our fellow trekking staff and chances to ask remaining question and simply relax at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driver to Pokhara in 7 hrs ( or 22 min flight). We take early morning tourist bus (or possible to take morning or day flight). Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 920m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive from Pokhara to Phedi, it takes one hours by driving. The road is reasonably good. Then trek from Phedi to Pothana village Deurali (2150m). It takes 4 hours then. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 1600m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This is beautiful walk through forest. After morning breakfast we trek about 5 hours to reached Forest camp walking through Pothana village. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 1850m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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As we climb there are natural windows in the woods that view out onto thrilling panoramas towards Hiunchuli Peak and the knife-sharp traverse towards Annapurna South. We have magnificent closer view of Fishtail and Annapurna Mountain range, Far below, to our left, we can see Modi Khola Valley leading up into the Annapurna Sanctuary. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 2250m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After early breakfast we start trekking to reach our highest point of the trek. With clear weather the view today will never be forgotten. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 4100m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb at 5000/5300m and back to low camp (4100m), free day to explore around. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 5000m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today the trail descent about 1600m through the shade of the forest, and out onto terraced fields. Here, as we make our way along the banks of the Mardi Khola from the hill-side village of Siding, down through the lovely fields, past the simple farms and over the ‘interesting’ bridges, there is no doubting this is indeed the idyllic Nepali countryside. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 1280m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After few hour walk we drive to Pokhara. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 920m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Early morning we take tourist bus to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We provide free transportation to international airport for final departure. (or follow your next adventure activities)
- Accommodation: No
- Hours: 30 Min
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
What's Included
- Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up & drop by private car/van/bus.
- Tourist Standard accommodation in 2/3 star level hotel in Kathmandu breakfast included (4 nights).
- Tourist standard accommodation in star level hotel in Pokhara including Breakfast.
- Kathmandu City Tours inclusive tour guide, private car/van/bus.
- Full board meal during trekking.
- A local government license holder Trekking Guide during the trek, a cook the required number of porters, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and a general first aid kit.
- Annapurna Conservation Entry permit
- Trekking Permit TIMS
- Surface Transfer to and from Kathmandu
- All our government taxes.
- Tourist service charge, vat.
- Official expanse
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
- Nepal entry visa fee you obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport.
- Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry.
- Personal trekking Equipment.
- Tips for trekking staff and driver. (Tipping is expected.)
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
What to Expect
Accommodation:
We will be staying at 2/3 star hotel in Kathmandu, and in tea-houses during the trek. All rooms are on twin-shared basis. Single bedroom will be arranged on request and will cost additional. Fourteen Summit will arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, tea-houses at some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also note that single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and in trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher altitude.
Meals:
All meals will be provided during trekking (On demand, we can arrange only breakfast during the trek and trekkers can order lunch and dinner individually from the tea-house menu). In Kathmandu, breakfast will be available. There will also be welcome and farewell dinners taking place for guests. While on trek, we have breakfast and dinner in the tea-houses/lodges where we spend the night and lunch on our way to next destination. Authentic Nepalese, Tibetan, continental meals and Indian cuisine are common choices in the menu.
Physical Condition & Experience Requirements:
Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate trek. Travelers who can walk up to 4-5 hours a day on an uphill and downhill trail will consider this trip fulfilling and enjoyable. It is a good idea to prepare for the trek by jogging and exercising regularly at least for a month prior to the start. Trekking to the Mardi Himal should be relatively easy for those who have experience in walking/trekking in high altitudes. Determination, good physical health, positive attitude and average physical fitness are good preconditions for a successful accomplishment of the trek. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases should inform Fourteen Summit before booking the trek.
Best Time to Travel:
The best time for trekking to Mardi Himal Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The temperature is moderate and guarantees amazing views throughout the trip. Although this trek can be undertaken during winter, the cold temperature might not be suitable for everyone.
Equipment List
Fourteen Summit has compiled a list of necessary equipment, personal medical supplies and symptoms of medical condition likely to face during trekking / peak climbing. Also, please do understand that items listed below should be considered as an essential summary.
We highly recommend you to be familiar with all of your equipment and basic understanding of medical Conditions related to high elevation.
Your document to travel to Nepal:
Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport)
Dollars in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport
Credit cards, bank/ATM/cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines
Accessories:
Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees F
Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
Large plastic bags – for keeping items dry inside trek bag
Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
Water bottles
Toiletries
Small wash towel
Rain coat
Personal Clothing items
Head:
Sun hat or scarf
Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body:
T-shirts
Weight thermal tops
Fleece jacket or pullover
Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
Hands:
Lightweight gloves
Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower Body:
Underwear
Hiking shorts
Lightweight cotton long pants
Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
Fleece or wool pants
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Feet:
Thick, warm wool hiking socks
Hiking boots with spare laces
Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
Personal Hygiene:
Personal hygiene supplies;
Two tubes lip sun cream, at least 1 large tube regular sun cream (min. factor 30), some after-sun lotion in case you do get a sunburn
One toothpaste/brush set;
One hand sanitizer gel
1 (fast drying) synthetic towel
Medical Supplies:
Personal prescription medications; Please let your leader know about any medical issues before the climb.
Small personal first-aid kit; (Simple and Light): first-aid tape, plasters (Band-Aids),alcohol-free wipes for cuts, personal medications, etc. (The leaders will have more extensive first-aid kits)
One skin blister repair kit
Anti-diarrhea pills (Imodium) (one regular package)
Anti-headache medication (Aspirin or Ibuprofen) (one regular package)
One small bottle cough and/or cold medicine.
One course antibiotics for chest infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One course antibiotics for stomach infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One small bottle anti-altitude sickness medication: Diamox (Acetylzolamide), available locally, for more about this medication, please contact us or your doctor
One small bottle of water purification tablets (needs to contain silver-ions AND chlorine) or a water filter or UV sterilizer.
Earplugs
Extra prescription glasses/contact lens. Contact lens wearers, please bring glasses in case of emergency.
Photo and Video
FAQ
The Mardi Himal Trek is a short and scenic trekking route in Nepal, located in the Annapurna region. It is a lesser-known yet stunning alternative to popular treks, taking around 4–7 days to complete. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high ridges, leading to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) with breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
The trek is considered moderately difficult, suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The daily walking duration ranges from 4 to 7 hours, with some steep ascents and descents. While the trek does not reach extreme altitudes, proper acclimatization is still necessary, especially when ascending towards the upper viewpoints.
The best seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) due to clear skies, stable weather, and beautiful mountain views. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides the best visibility. Winter trekking is possible but comes with cold temperatures and snowfall, whereas monsoon season (June-August) brings rain and slippery trails.
Yes, trekkers need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and they are checked at various points along the trek.
The trek typically takes 4 to 7 days, depending on the starting point and trekking pace. Many trekkers begin from Kande or Phedi, while some start from Ghandruk or Sidhing to explore alternative routes. The duration can be adjusted based on fitness level and time availability.
Accommodation consists of tea houses and lodges, which provide basic rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. The lower sections have better facilities, including hot showers and Wi-Fi, but as you go higher, the lodges become more basic with limited amenities. Meals include dal bhat, noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread, with prices increasing at higher altitudes.
Although altitude sickness is less common compared to treks like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, it can still occur above 3,500m if trekkers ascend too quickly. It is recommended to stay hydrated, take it slow, and listen to your body. If symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea appear, descending to a lower altitude is the best solution.
The trek can be done independently, as the trail is well-marked, but hiring a guide can enhance the experience by providing insights into local culture and navigation. A porter is helpful if you prefer to trek with a lighter backpack. Guides and porters also contribute to the local economy and ensure safety on the trail.
The most common starting point is Kande, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. Some trekkers start from Phedi or Ghandruk, depending on their route preference. The trek typically ends in Sidhing or Landruk, from where you can take a jeep back to Pokhara.
The Mardi Himal Trek is special because of its off-the-beaten-path experience, breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to other Annapurna treks. It offers a close-up view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and an authentic trekking experience through traditional villages and untouched natural beauty, making it a perfect short trek in Nepal.