Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic and relatively less crowded trekking routes. Located in the Annapurna region, this short yet breathtaking trek offers panoramic views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. With well-maintained trails, cozy teahouses, and manageable altitude, it's an ideal trek for beginners and those on a tight schedule.
Why Choose Mardi Himal Trek?
Unlike the more commercialized Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks, Mardi Himal offers tranquility and raw natural beauty. You’ll walk through lush forests, rhododendron-covered hills, and ridge-top paths that feel untouched by time. The trek rewards you with close-up views of towering Himalayan peaks in just a few days.
Highlights include:
Less crowded trail
Stunning sunrise views from Mardi High Camp
Unique ridge-top trekking experience
Opportunities to explore traditional Gurung villages
Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary (5 Days)
Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the Mardi Himal trek route if you're aiming to complete it in 5 days:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande and Trek to Forest Camp (2,550 m)
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Trek time: 4-5 hours
Start your journey with an early morning drive from Pokhara to Kande. The trail from Kande ascends gradually through Australian Camp and Deurali before entering dense forest. You’ll trek under the canopy of rhododendron and oak trees to reach Forest Camp, your first overnight stop.
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,970 m)
Trek time: 3-4 hours
The trail from Forest Camp to Low Camp gets steeper, but the effort is worth it as the views become increasingly beautiful. You’ll start to see glimpses of Machapuchare (Fishtail) through the trees, and the forest begins to thin as you gain elevation.
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Low Camp to High Camp (3,550 m)
Trek time: 3-4 hours
Today’s trail leads you along a ridge with spectacular mountain views on both sides. Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare dominate the skyline. As you approach High Camp, the air gets cooler and the surroundings more alpine.
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m) and Return to Siding (1,750 m)
Trek time: 7-8 hours total
Start early for a sunrise hike to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint or Base Camp. The early morning light on the Himalayas is magical and perfect for photography. After soaking in the views, descend all the way down to Siding Village via a different trail through forests and traditional homes.
Accommodation: Tea house or local homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Siding to Pokhara
Drive time: 3 hours
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the village before driving back to Pokhara. You’ll be back in time to relax by Phewa Lake or explore Lakeside.
Meals: Breakfast
Cost Breakdown of Mardi Himal Trek (5 Days)
The Mardi Himal trek is budget-friendly compared to longer treks. Here's an approximate cost overview:
| Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| ACAP Permit | 30 |
| TIMS Card | 20 |
| Transport (Pokhara-Kande, Siding-Pokhara) | 30–40 |
| Guide (optional, per day) | 25–30 |
| Porter (optional, per day) | 20–25 |
| Accommodation (per night) | 5–8 |
| Meals (per day) | 20–30 |
| Miscellaneous (snacks, Wi-Fi, hot showers) | 20–30 |
Total estimated cost for 5 days:
Solo (no guide/porter): $200–250
With guide and porter: $300–400
Costs may vary depending on your group size, travel season, and personal spending habits.
Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal
The best seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek are:
Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views.
Autumn (September to November): Stable climate, crisp air, and excellent visibility.
Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to slippery trails and leeches. Winter (December to February) is possible but comes with freezing temperatures at High Camp.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Mardi Himal Trek
1. Acclimatize Smartly
Although Mardi Himal’s highest point is below 4,500 meters, altitude sickness can still occur. Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and don’t skip meals.
2. Pack Light but Smart
Include the following:
Warm layers (it gets cold at High Camp)
Windproof jacket
Comfortable hiking boots
Reusable water bottle
Snacks and energy bars
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Basic first aid kit
3. Stay in Tea Houses
Tea houses along the Mardi Himal trail are cozy and run by local families. They offer basic facilities such as:
Shared bathrooms
Warm meals (dal bhat, noodles, porridge)
Limited electricity and Wi-Fi (often paid)
Carry some cash, as ATMs are not available along the trail.
4. Hire a Local Guide
A guide enhances your safety, provides cultural insights, and helps with accommodation. Hiring one also supports the local economy.
5. Trek Responsibly
Do not litter
Use water purification tablets instead of buying plastic bottles
Respect local customs and traditions
Conclusion
The Mardi Himal Trek is a compact yet powerful Himalayan experience, perfect for travelers short on time but big on adventure. With manageable distances, awe-inspiring mountain views, and a touch of solitude, this 5-day itinerary strikes a perfect balance between effort and reward.
By planning well, respecting the environment, and following these tips, you can make your Mardi Himal Trek a safe, enriching, and memorable journey through Nepal’s majestic Annapurna region.
