Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
- Kick things off with white-water fun on the Trisuli River
- Enjoy views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and other peaks
- Trek through blooming rhododendron forests (in March-April)
- Enjoy a relatively easy trek that many visitors overlook
- Immerse yourself in Nepali culture with a local homestay in the hills
Trip Overview
Mardi Himal Trek was officially opened in 2012 newly opened route and hidden treasure in the Annapurna region. There are limited teahouses with basic facilities. This is a short relatively easy and unspoiled trek not far from Pokhara. Yet it is highly diverse with cultural insight, beautiful forest walks, and alpine landscapes. As the trail mostly stays along the ridge, the altitude gain becomes more gradual. This trek is the best destination to avoid the crowd. The Mardi Himal trek offers imaging views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, and Manaslu ranges. Mardi Himal base camp, Siding village, and Lwang are the major attractions of this trek. Situated just east of one of the most popular treks of Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp trek. Few trekkers make their way to the Mardi Himal Base Camp spectacularly situated at the base of Mardi Himal and the impressive Machapuchhre.
Mardi Himal Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek takes you through stunning landscapes, lush forests, and picturesque villages, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.The trek starts from the beautiful city of Pokhara and takes you through the off-the-beaten path to the base camp of Mardi Himal. The route passes through the traditional Gurung villages and dense forests, giving you a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle.
The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, which stands at an altitude of 4,500 meters. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other peaks. The best time to trek the Mardi Himal trail is from March to May and September to November. The trek takes around 5-7 days, depending on your pace and itinerary.
Overall, the Mardi Himal trek is a great option for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path trek with stunning views of the Himalayas and a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle.
Mardi Himal Trek the trail goes along small winding paths, through magical rhododendron forests until you climb out of the forest at an elevation of around 3,300 m. The landscape changes quite abruptly into a rugged high mountain landscape, with amazing views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. From High Camp (3580 m; some maps incorrectly mention 3900 m), you can climb up to Mardi Himal Base Camp in about 3-4 hours, which offers spectacular close-up views of the entire Annapurna Range.
SHORT ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and then transfer to respective Hotels
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara 860 m – 06 hrs journeys
Day 03: Drive to Kande and trek to Deurali (2,232 m / 5 Hrs )
Day 04 : Trek to Forest camp (2,600 m / 5 Hrs)
Day 05: Trek to high camp (5 Hrs / 3,550 m)
Day 06: Explore Mardi Himal base camp (6 Hrs / 4,500 m)
Day 07: Trek back to forest camp (5 hrs)
Day 08: Walk to lwang than drive back to Pokhara (5 Hrs / 1,500m)
Day 09: From Pokhara drive to Kathmandu 1,345 m – 06hrs.
Day 10: International Departure for Homeward Bound.
Trip Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and then transfer to respective Hotels
- Distance : 7 km
- Duration : 30 Minutes drive to hotel
- Max. Altitude :1345m.
On reaching Kathmandu via respective airlines well received by company guides and staff for short drive in the hub of Kathmandu city where your hotels located. After checking into your lovely rooms getting refreshed join in at the Hotel lobby for group briefing regarding treks and other useful information to make your stay in Nepal enjoyable and pleasant.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include:
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara
- Distance : 200 Km
- Duration : 6 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude :860 m
Annapurna Base Camp trekking begins with the overland drive to Nepal Mid West taking a comfortable coach or Tourist Bus to reach scenic Pokhara, a beautiful and leading tourist place in all Himalaya range, with warm sub-tropical temperatures and close views of Annapurna Himalaya with Mt. Machhapuchare ‘Fish Tail’.On reaching Pokhara transfer to respective hotels by the Phewa Lake with views of Annapurna and Machhapuchare peak, afternoon at leisure for short walks around the lakeside.Overnight at the hotel.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Kande and trek to Deurali
- Distance : 30 km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :2,232 m
After breakfast, drive for about 40 mints to Kande on Pokhara Baglung highway. The trail climbs for about 1 ½ hrs to the ridge at 2,060 m. The clearing in the forest with lodge settlement is known as ‘Australian camp’. The place is scenic with a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and Pokhara valley. The trail further winds through the rhododendron forest to the mountain pass called ‘Deurali’. Deurali is overlooking into the Modi Khola valley wedged between Annapurna South and Mardi Himal / Mt Fishtail.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04: Trek to Forest camp
- Distance : 11 km
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
- Max. Altitude :2,600 m
After spending the beautiful morning in the ridge-top village of Deurali, we head off the main Annapurna trekking trail and follow the forested ridge to Forest camp. Since this is a new trekking destination, there are no teahouses along the way and we need to carry pack lunch and sufficient water. The day’s walk in the rhododendron forest is beautiful with a gradual uphill.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05: Trek to high camp
- Distance : 15 km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :3,550 m
The trail gradually climbs through the rhododendron forest following the ridge. The low camp has got a couple of tea houses in the clearing of the forest. The view of Mt Fishtail and Mardi Himal appears much closer. You find yourself closer to a clear blue sky with a view of layers of Himalayan foothills and a sweeping valley towards the south. Note: You can trek 1 more hr to Badal Danda (Cloud Hill) above the tree line in the consent of a guide for a better view. From Badal Danda, we leave the tree line and arrive in the shrubby alpine zone. Snowcapped peaks of Annapurna South, Huinchuli and Fishtail in a distance above the deep valley on either side. High camp is a small pasture after the climb. Here you find yourself above the clouds and closer to snowcapped peaks.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06: Explore Mardi Himal base camp
- Distance : Explore day
- Duration : Explore day
- Max. Altitude :4,500 m
The day trip is more difficult than other days with the steep climb and long walk. The trail becomes more vertiginous at some points with uneven and steep rocky steps. The first steep climb will take about 2 hrs to the ridge top which is marked as MBC (Mardi Himal Base Camp). However, the real base camp will take about another 2 hrs along the ridge. The view is amazing all along the ridge. While Mardi Himal and Mt Fishtail appear right above us, the view of Annapurna I, Gangapurna and Annapurna III also appear at a distance.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07: Trek back to forest camp
- Distance : 14 km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :2600m
Even though the scenery is stationary, season and sunlight make it different and interesting. Spend another morning watching the change that the sun’s rays bring. Walk down to forest camp after breakfast.
- Accommodation: Tea House
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08: Walk to lwang than drive back to Pokhara
- Distance : 40 km
- Duration : 5 to 6 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,500 m
The trail climbs down steeply through rhododendrons and Maple forests to the permanent settlements closer to the valley basin. Lwang is a self-sufficient Gurung village with a rich culture and happy people. The village is the best place to watch the Nepalese countryside lifestyle and enjoy organic food. The village farmers also grow organic tea on 50 hectares of land. Farmers offer homestay accommodation. The waterfall on the outskirts of the village offers one of the most exciting canyoning adventures. down to the Mardi River basin and drive back to Pokhara. It will take about 1 ½ hrs to get to Pokhara in a 4 WD. The first 1 hr is a drive on the dirt road.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 09: From Pokhara drive to Kathmandu
- Distance : 200 km
- Duration : 6 to 8 hours
- Max. Altitude :1,345 m
After a wonderful time in the high mountains and hills, take a morning driving journey back to Kathmandu, on reaching Kathmandu after 5-6 hours of nice interesting drive, transfer to respective hotels with the afternoon free at leisure or last day shopping souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Day 10: International Departure for Homeward Bound.
- Distance : 7 km
- Duration : 30 Minutes drive to ariport
- Max. Altitude :
Last day in Nepal in the country of high Himalayan mountains with fascinating culture, after a memorable time on Annapurna Base Camp Trekking with wonderful adventure and experience, as per your international flight time our staff transfers you to the airport for the flight homeward bound or to your next port of call and respective countries.
- Accommodation:
- Meals Include: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Airport Pick up & drop by private car in Kathmandu
- Pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before the trek
- 2 Nights of standard accommodation in Katmandu with Breakfast (3-star hotel)
- 2-Night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
- 3 Times Meals with Cup of Tea Or Coffee (Break Fast, Lunch & Dinner)
- All mountain accommodation (Soft, comfortable, private room with shared toilet)
- An experienced, helpful, friendly and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, etc.
- All necessary paperwork and permits (Annapurna Conservation permit and TIMS )
- Guide salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
- All Ground Transportation
- A strong, helpful porter with proper equipment (one porter for two people – porter will carry a maximum of 25 kilos )
- Daily seasonal fresh fruits as per the availability
- Kathmandu -Pokhara-Kathmandu by tourist bus
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Worst-case rescue and medical evacuation arrangements
- All government and local taxes
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the cultural restaurant
Cost Includes
- Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Katmandu).
- Your Travel and rescue insurance.
- Your personal expenses. (Phone call, Wifi, Laundry service, bar bills, battery recharge, a bottle of water or hot water, Mineral water, Hot shower, etc.)
- All the alcoholic drinks and bar bills.
- International airfare and airport departure tax.
- Extra Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival or late departure. early arrive from the mountain (due to any reason) Than the scheduled Itinerary.
- Services not mentioned in the ‘Services Includes’ section ( Please ask us if you are confused about any services )
- Kathmandu and Pokhara- lunch and Dinner
- Tips for the guide and porter.
Equipment’s
Recommended equipment list
This list is a guide to help you pack for your trip. This is not intended to be a comprehensive clothing and equipment list; rather it is intended to act as a reminder of those items that we feel necessary for your comfort and convenience. we also suggest that you pack only what is necessary.
Head
• The warm hat that covers your ears
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Headlamp with extra batteries
Upper body
• T-shirts
• Fleece jacket or sweater
• Fleece wind–stopper jacket
• Waterproof shell jacket
• Down vest and /or jacket (optional)Hands
• Lightweight gloves (water /windproof)
• Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower body
• Underwear
• Hiking trousers
• Fleece or woolen trousers
• Lightweight thermal bottoms
• Lightweight cotton pants
• Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric )shell pants Feet
• Thin lightweight inner socks
• Heavy poly or wool socks
• Hiking boots with spare laces
• Camp shoes (sneakers and sandals)
Sleeping
• Sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C de 14 degrees F)
• Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
Toiletries
• Toothbrush /paste
• Multi-purpose soap
• Nail clippers
• Deodorants
• Medium-sized quick-drying towel
• Face and body moisturizer
• Small mirror
• Female hygiene products
Personal hygiene
• Wet wipes (baby wipes)
• Tissue/toilet roll
• Antibacterial hand wash
Medical
• Small, personal first-aid kit (simple and light)
• A cough and /or cold medicine
• Anti–altitude sickness pills; Diamox or acetazolamide
• Stomach antibiotic
Extras /luxuries
• Reading book
• Trail map /guidebook
• Journal and pen
• Travel game(chess, backgammon, playing cards, etc)
• Modest swimsuit
• Binoculars
• Camera
Trip Map
FAQ
What is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is an easy trekking route in Nepal, leading to the base camp of Mardi Himal, one of the highest peaks in the world at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet). The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages, culminating at the Annapurna Sanctuary, a high glacial basin surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.
How long does the trek take?
Typically, the trek lasts around 5–10 days, depending on your starting point, pace, and the specific itinerary you choose. Some trekkers combine it with the Poon Hill trek to add an extra 3–4 days for acclimatization and a scenic sunrise viewpoint.
What is the best season for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Autumn (September–November) and Spring (March-May) are ideal due to stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures. The monsoon season (June–August) can bring heavy rains and leeches, making trails slippery. Winter (December–February) offers fewer crowds and clear skies but can be quite cold, with snowmaking access to the base camp challenging.
How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered moderate to challenging. Trekkers don’t need technical climbing skills, but the altitude and steep ascents can be demanding. Daily walking times vary from 4–7 hours, and trekkers should be in reasonably good shape.
What Type of Accommodation on the trek Mardi Himal Trek?
In Kathmandu, we use the deluxe hotel to ensure a comfortable stay and a relaxed environment before and after your adventure. All breakfasts are included at the hotel in Kathmandu. Rooms are generally twin share – depending on group size and room availability, the triple share may be offered at your request. A single supplement room is available at an additional cost. On request single supplement will be charged US$200.well plan trekking will arrange clean and comfortable rooms with attached washrooms; however, teahouses in some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. also, note that single rooms are available in the trekking regions at the lower elevations but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.
What is the maximum altitude of the trek?
Mardi Himal Trek sits at 4500 meters (13,550 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization and hydration are important to ensure a safe ascent.
Is altitude sickness a risk on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes, there is a risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), especially as you approach the higher altitudes around the base camp. Gradual ascent, rest days, and plenty of water are essential in minimizing AMS risks. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms and consider carrying medications like Diamox, after consulting with a doctor.
What is the Climate and Weather Mardi Himal Trek?
The climate of Nepal is as varied as its geography. The low-lying Terai has a sub-tropical monsoonal climate. The Himalayan foothills, where most of our treks take place, are best in the cool dry season from September to May. The traditional trekking season in Nepal is from late September to May, with October and November generally recognized as having the best weather. Spring is also a popular time of year with warmer weather and the advantage of seeing spring flowers and rhododendrons in bloom. The visibility is good, and the days are pleasantly warm, although nights can be cold, and snow is possible above 3,000 meters.
Is a guide or porter necessary for the trek?
While it’s possible to trek independently, hiring a guide can enhance safety and cultural understanding, and porters can help carry heavy bags, making the trek easier. In some seasons, guides are highly recommended, especially if there is snow or poor visibility on the trail.
How much does the trek cost?
The ABC Trek can range from $500–$1,500 depending on whether you’re trekking independently or with a guided tour. Costs include permits, accommodation, meals, guide/porter fees, transportation, and gear rental if needed.
What Type of Physical condition & experience requirements?
For a physically fit person of all ages with sound health who has done moderately to strenuous walking and activity before or at present. This type of trek involves long ups and downs and the length of walking will be from 5 – 7 hours every day with rest and breaks in between. The whole trip goes from a week to two weeks or more in the high altitude. This trip is for well-experienced people who have done previous long high hills or mountainous trekking in and around the Himalayas or other mountainous areas on rough terrains, this trip involves walking in snow and ice conditions sometimes and encountering high of over 4,000 meters passes, as for moderate people can join on this type of trips as long they are super physically fit and a mind with positive and determinations. Past hiking experience is a must but no technical skill is required for this trip .participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases should inform well plan trekking before booking the trek. we also
What permits do I need?
Trekkers need two permits:
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) — for safety and tracking.Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) — for entry into the conservation area. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation along the Mardi Himal Trek trek consists mainly of tea houses (basic guesthouses) that offer simple rooms and hot meals. Rooms may be shared, and electricity may be limited. Facilities get more basic with altitude, and hot showers and Wi-Fi usually come with a fee.
What kind of food is available?
Meals consist of local Nepalese dishes (like dal bhat), as well as international staples (like pasta, noodles, and fried rice). Food prices increase with altitude, so budgeting accordingly is wise.
How About The Drinking Water Options?
Tap and River Water
Available Sources: Streams, rivers, and taps are common along the trail. Safety: These sources are not safe for direct consumption without treatment because they may contain bacteria, parasites, or other contaminants.
Boiled Water
Availability: Most tea houses and lodges offer boiled water, which is a safe option. Cost: The price increases as you ascend due to transportation and fuel costs. Eco-Friendliness: Using boiled water reduces the need for single-use plastic bottles.
Bottled Water
Availability: Bottled water is sold at tea houses and shops along the trail.Cost: Prices increase at higher altitudes due to the difficulty of transportation.Environmental Concerns: Plastic waste management is a significant issue in remote areas. Avoid this option if possible.
Treated Water
Options: Carry water purification tablets (e.g., iodine or chlorine), or use portable water filters or UV sterilizers (e.g., SteriPen).Advantages: Lightweight, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.Effectiveness: Kills bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Ensure proper use based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I Use Wifi (Internet) To Mardi Himal Trek?
Wi-Fi in Villages and Tea Houses Cost: Wi-Fi is usually not free. Lodges typically charge anywhere between NPR 200–500 (USD 2–5) per device, depending on the location.
Reliability: The higher you go, the weaker and less reliable the connection tends to be. Weather conditions can also affect connectivity.
Alternatives to Wi-Fi
Local SIM Cards: Purchasing a local SIM card (e.g., NTC or Ncell) with a data plan plan is another option. NTC has better coverage in the Mardi Himal Trek, you can use most of the places where NTC 4 G data is working. The Ncell SIM card is not working.
Client Reviews
Steyan
Estefanía H
Manish
Mani
Madageskar
Kristin Bolton
Kristin Bolton
Kate Vogel
jojo
Irene Wong
Wonderful winter Manaslu circuit Trek
Our guide Raju and his brother are lovely and made our trip wonderful. They were very helpful and experienced, took care of everything and even cooked for us sometimes. They know a lot about the Manaslu region and their knowledge really enhances the experience. Highly recommend them if you are thinking about doing the Manaslu circuit trek . Source Tripadvisor