Activity
Hiking/ Trekking
Duration
11 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Arrival City
Kathmandu
Departure City
Kathmandu
Max Altitude
4250m/13944ft
Meals
8 Breakfast, 6 Lunch, 7 Dinner
Accommodation
3 star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara; and Tea House during Trek.
Best Season
January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October November, December.
Off-beaten path with a remote and secluded setting
Expansive panorama of snow-capped mountains, including Mardi Himal, Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri
Experience the unique culture and tradition of Gurung and Magar villages like Siding and Forest Camp
Breathtaking sunrises over the Annapurna range and Machapuchhre Himal
Walk along the beautiful trail, enjoying the scenic landscape
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the untouched and less crowded Himalayan trail in the Annapurna region. This pristine trek offers an adventure in off-the-beaten-path, surrounded by natural beauty. Usually, most trekkers head straight to the more well-known Annapurna Base Camp trek. However, just south of this well-known trek lies an offbeat discovery, the Mardi Himal Trek.
With the lush rhododendron forest, charming villages, terraced fields, and verdant meadows, the trail opens up to a majestic view of snow-capped mountains, including the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre. Moreover, the biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area will keep you entertained throughout the trek. Even though this trek does not take you very high up from the settlement areas, it is high enough to have a close-up view of the Himalayas.
The standard Mardi Himal trek itinerary starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a short transfer to Phedi—the trek's starting point. From here, the route passes through Deurali, Forest Camp, Mardi Himal, Low Camp, and then High Camp Mardi Himal. The final ascent to Mardi High Camp and the upper viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of Mardi Himal and neighboring peaks, making it one of the most rewarding high-altitude treks in Nepal.
Upon arrival at the International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representatives and transferred to your hotel.
Today is free for you to relax and explore at your own pace. You may also wish to shop for trekking gear such as jackets, hats, t-shirts, walking sticks, and trekking bags, which are easily available near your hotel.
In the evening, we will gather for a welcome dinner hosted by our company, where you can meet your fellow trekkers and enjoy a delicious meal to kickstart your adventure.
Dinner Included
Today, we will drive to Pokhara Valley, often referred to as the "Dreamland of Nepal" due to its stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and breathtaking mountain views.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel. In the evening, we will enjoy an hour of boating on the tranquil Fewa Lake, offering a peaceful experience with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Afterward, you'll have free time to explore the vibrant lakeside area, relax, or enjoy the local cafes and shops.
Breakfast Included
After breakfast, we will take a short drive to Phedi, where our trek to Mardi Himal begins. The trail starts with steep stone steps, and as we continue, we pass through charming villages, terraced fields, and lush forests, gradually making our way to Dhampus.
Dhampus is a popular destination for a short trek in the Annapurna region, offering incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere. From Dhampus, we will proceed to Deurali, a small, picturesque village located on a ridge.
Deurali provides panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal. Enjoy the spectacular mountain vistas from your tea house, where we will stay overnight.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Today, we will start our trek from Deurali to Forest Camp.
We will begin by walking on a flat trail for about an hour, passing through a road lined with pine trees before entering the vibrant, colorful rhododendron forests. The trail continues through the peaceful, quiet surroundings, offering a serene atmosphere as we make our way toward Forest Camp.
Upon arrival, you'll be able to relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the area.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Today’s walk is both beautiful and interesting, as the path takes us through lush, scenic forests.
We will trek for around 5 hours, gradually making our way to Forest Camp, where we’ll be treated to fantastic views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Upon arrival at Forest Camp, you can relax and explore the area, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Today, we will trek uphill along a ridge towards Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre.
As we ascend, the landscape begins to change, with the tree line thinning out. The area becomes drier, and the trail is mostly lined with shrubs and isolated rhododendron bushes.
We may even have a chance to spot the Daphne pheasant, the national bird of Nepal, as we make our way to High Camp.
Upon reaching High Camp, our final destination for the day, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the stunning Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
On our trek to the Upper Viewpoint, we will ascend and descend along a steep and sometimes narrow trail. The path takes us through lush pastures, and we’ll hike along a narrow ridge before finally reaching the viewpoint.
The view from the Upper Viewpoint is absolutely stunning, offering a magnificent Himalayan vista. From here, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Mardi Himal (5587m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Baraha Shikhar (Mt. Fang) (7647m), Tent Peak (5695m), Singhachuli (6501m), Machapuchhre (6993m), and many other towering peaks of the Annapurna range.
After soaking in the incredible views, we will trek back to High Camp for an overnight stay.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Today, we will take a different route from High Camp, which leads us to Sidhing instead of returning to Mardi Himal. This alternative route allows us to experience a different side of the trek, making the journey even more exciting and rewarding.
Sidhing is a peaceful village, tucked away from the busier trails, offering a quiet and serene atmosphere for trekkers. It provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
We will spend the night in Sidhing, soaking in the calm surroundings.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
Today, we will have an early breakfast and begin our walk towards Lumre, where we will catch a drive back to Pokhara.
Upon reaching Pokhara, we will check into your hotel. You will have the rest of the day free to explore the beautiful Lakeside area, relax by Fewa Lake, or wander around the vibrant streets filled with cafes, shops, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy your free time to unwind and soak in the charm of Pokhara.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Included
After breakfast, we will drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the beautiful scenery as we cross hills, rivers, and villages along the way.
Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will check into your hotel, and you will have a little time to refresh and relax.
In the evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant, where you will enjoy a cultural show. This dinner, hosted by our company, will celebrate the successful completion of your trek and provide a memorable end to your Nepal adventure.
Breakfast, Dinner Included
Today, you will have free time to relax or do some last-minute shopping before your flight.
Our representative will come to pick you up from your hotel at the scheduled time and transfer you to the airport for your departure. Safe travels, and we hope you carry beautiful memories from your adventure in Nepal!
Breakfast Included
02 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu inclusive of breakfast on a twin shared basis
02 nights’ accommodation in Pokhara inclusive of breakfast on a twin shared basis
06 nights’ accommodation during trek in a Tea House on a twin shared basis
All meals while on trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Airport – Hotel – Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)
Half day guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu inclusive of entrance fees
English speaking Trek leader/Guide
Porters to carry your bags (1 porter for 2 guests)
Sleeping bags
Duffel bags, T- Shirt (Yours to keep)
Food, Accommodation, Salary, Insurance and equipments for all staffs
All necessary permits for the trek
Welcome and Farewell dinner
All ground transfers on a comfortable private vehicle
Government, hotel and all applicable taxes
International Airfare and taxes
Travel Insurance with rescue and emergency evacuation
Nepal Entry visa (Visa is obtained in Nepal Airport immigration on arrival. USD 25 per visa for 15 days, USD 40 per visa for 30 days and USD 100 per visa for 90 days. All the visas are multiple entry visas. Please carry 02 passport sized photographs
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
All items of personal nature like telephone bills, laundry, drink etc.
Items such as hot water for shower/drinking; Mobile phone and camera charging etc will be extra during trek which can be paid to the tea house/lodge owner directly.
The Mardi Himal Trek takes you to a less crowded area of the Annapurna region, covering a total distance of 64.30 km (39.9 miles). Starting the trek from Phedi, passing through forest camp, low camp, and high camp, you will reach the viewpoint, the highest point of your Mardi Himal Trek, with an elevation of 4250 m. From there, you will trek back to High Camp and then to Lumre to conclude your amazing trek.
The duration of your journey can depend on the Mardi Himal Trek itinerary you choose. If you choose an itinerary with more highlights and enough acclimatization days, then you will have longer days on the trek. However, if you choose a package with no acclimatization days and brief exploration, then the duration of your journey can be short.
Your Mardi Himal Trek can be short, of 5 days, or long, of 7 to 11 days. Additionally, if you include other treks like the Khopra Ridge Trek or the Ghorepani Poonhill trek, your journey in the Himalayas can last for 10 to 15 days too.
While trekking in Nepal, you don't have to follow the same classic route. There are various routes that can take you to your destination. Likewise, the starting and ending points of your Mardi Himal Trek can be changed with the route you take. Many people prefer to start this rewarding trek from Phedi after taking a scenic drive from Pokhara.
However, some trekkers prefer to start their Mardi Himal trekking from Kande as well. When it comes to the ending point, trekkers will prefer to trek back to high camp and pass Sidhing village to reach Lumre, where they will end their trek. If you don't prefer this route, you can trek back to low camp and end your journey in Phedi or Kande, too.
For the adventure of the Mardi Himal Trek, you will have to pay about USD 750 to USD 1200. The Mardi Himal Trek costs can vary upon various factors like itinerary, route, amenities included, etc. This trek is perfect for both budget-friendly travelers and luxurious travelers.
We are providing you this exclusive Mardi Himal Trek package for USD 900 per person. This cost includes all the accommodations in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and during the treks. Moreover, the permits, guides, and porters will also be included in this cost. The meals during the trek and transportation are also part of this Mardi Himal Trek package.
Generally, spring and autumn seasons are considered to be the best times for trekking in Nepal. So does for Mardi Himal Trek. The rhododendron blossoms along the trail will break the monotonous atmosphere of the trek. Moreover, the skies will be clear, providing you panorama of Himalayan views.
Likewise, during the autumn season, the trails will be dry, accompanied by mild temperatures. The pleasant atmosphere will make trekking to Mardi Himal more convenient and comfortable. Additionally, the warm day and chilly morning, and evening provide the perfect temperature for trekking. Your experience in the Mardi region will be enhanced by the festive atmosphere of the fall season.
Mardi Himal Trek is graded as a moderately difficult trek. This trek encompasses the forested trails, followed by some steep ascents and descents on the gravel route. Some sections of this trek involve walking on the narrow ridgeline with exposed sides, which adds to more difficulty level of this adventure. However, this trek does not have any technical climbing, making it a feasible trek for beginners.
If you are someone looking for a less crowded trek in a remote setting, then this trek is perfect for you. Trekkers craving for unspoiled nature and a sense of solitude usually prefer this trek.
Even though this trek doesn't require any technical climbing, the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek requires long hours of walking along with occasional demanding ascents and descents. So you will require a good level of physical and mental fitness to successfully complete this trek. Novice trekkers can also complete this rewarding trek; however, prior preparation for the trek is highly recommended.
Moreover, this trek can be completed within a short time, so if you have limited time on hand, you can easily embark on this trek. Hence, whether you are solo trekkers or in group, seasoned trekkers or just beginners, Mardi Himal Trek offers you the perfect blend of beauty, solitude, and adventure.
Teahouses dotted along the forested trail of the Mardi region offer you diverse options of hearty meals and drinks. You can expect food like bread and butter, sel roti, paratha, porridge, congee, etc, for breakfast. Likewise, you will get more energy giving food such as Daal Bhaat Tarkari, gundruk dhido, momo, thukpa, chowmin, etc, for lunch and dinner. You will also get diverse options of cold drinks, hot drinks, and even hard drinks in these teahouses.
Since the Mardi Himal trek is distinct from other mainstream treks like the Everest Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will find simple teahouses and lodges for accommodations alongside the trail. Most of the teahouses will have rooms on a twin-sharing basis. The beds will be well equipped with blankets, pillows, and a mattress. In the lower elevation, you can find an attached western-style bathroom. However, as you ascend higher, you will find a communal traditional-style bathroom.
These teahouses may offer you additional facilities like hot showers, WIfi, and electrical charging; however, you will have to pay an extra amount for those amenities. Even though you will find basic and limited facilities in these teahouses, the warmth and hospitality of the people will definitely warm up your heart in the cold Himalayas.
Choosing a trek according to your fitness level is key to a successful trek. Analysing your fitness level is the first step of preparation for the Mardi Himal Trek. Even though this trek is moderate, some sections in the High Camp Mardi Himal and Forest Camp Mardi Himal can test your wits and strength, especially if you are a beginner. So, you should be prepared beforehand, physically and mentally, for this adventure.
You can try doing exercises that increase your physical strength and endurance. Exercises like planks, push-ups, lunges, etc, will increase your leg and core strength. Likewise, cardiovascular exercises like swimming, cycling, walking, etc, will increase your endurance. Consistency of these exercises weeks before the trek will help in preparing your body physically.
Furthermore, you can prepare mentally for the trek by setting realistic expectations for the trek. Learning about the route, teahouses, difficulty level, etc, will also help in having a general idea about the trek.
To complete the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need two permits:
The risk of altitude sickness is usually high above 3000 m. Moreover, Mardi Himal Trekking will take you to a maximum altitude of 4250 at the viewpoint. So, the chances of falling into the trap of altitude sickness are pretty high. Hence, you should take necessary precautions and safety measures along with proper acclimatization to avoid high-altitude sickness. If you are a first-time trekker, try choosing a package that has enough acclimatization days. Make sure to stay hydrated. Walk at your own pace and take short breaks in between. Do not push yourself if your body is clearly hinting at altitude sickness.
Mountain Adventure will not only be your travelling guide but a friend who will take care of everything from permits to porters. With our expertise in this field, we will ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable journey. With us, you will get genuine support, honest pricing, and a team that truly cares about your comfort and safety. Whether you're trekking for the first time or coming back for more, we’ll make sure your Mardi Himal adventure will be an unforgettable memory that you will cherish lifetime. Contact us.
Lim Kheng
Me and my husband recently in Apr 2025 engaged Mountain Adventure for our Mardi Himal trek. From the start to finish, every detail was handled professionally and the team ensured that we have a safe and enjoyable trip, maximizing our trekking experience. This is the third time we engaged them as we have complete trust in the team. From timely communication to clear itineraries and helpful trekking advice, making the whole trip stress-free and efficient. Every detail was taken care of.
