Mardi Himal Trek
Duration: 7 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Accomodation: Hotel/ Lodge/ Tea House
Meal: B-L-D
Max. Altitude: 4500m / 14, 764 ft 
Best Seasons: Spring (March-April-May) & Autumn (Sep-Oct-Nov)Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal trek is one of the best trek in Nepal. The trek is ideal for exploring lush valleys, high-altitude alpine meadows, dense forests covered in lichen, and several streams with waterfalls tumbling down from above.
The beautiful, snow-capped mountains that loom over you in all directions will be all around you. This is a very beautiful location in a remote part of Nepal that not many visitors visit. In this culturally diverse and breathtakingly beautiful area, you will relish the isolation. As you hike to Machapuchare Base Camp, you will appreciate the sense of being genuinely off the beaten path.
Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city with Phewa Tal (Lake) at its heart, is where the Mardi Himal Trek begins. The trail begins by following riverbanks and through a rhododendron forest. The trail climbs in the direction of Phedi after descending to the Mardi Khola (river). Amazing vistas of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South (7219m), Mt. Himalchuli (7893m), and Mt. Machapuchare (6993m, Fish Tail), Mardi Himal (5587m), may be seen on the Mardi Himal hike.
Anyone with a moderate level of fitness can complete the Mardi Himal path. You could have trouble breathing as you ascend from the valley level, but the breathtaking scenery will more than make up for it and serve as a pleasant diversion.
On this unique journey to a more isolated part of Nepal that is off the traditional trekking tracks, we promise you will appreciate the seclusion. From Mardi Himal High Camp, you may enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of sunrise and sunset.
Mardi Himal Trekking Information
The Mardi Himal short walk is one of the most popular trekking sites in Nepal’s Annapurna region. The seven-day journey begins with a trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara and, the following day, to Phedi.
You can reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp after a quick three-day hike from Phedi. The trek map shows the route from Pothana to Low Camp, from Low Camp to High Camp, and finally to Base Camp.
Only on the fifth day will you arrive at the Mardi Himal Base Camp journey. You will spend a few hours in the Mardi Himal Base Camp before returning to Siding to spend the night. On the sixth day, we will return by car to Pokhara, and on the seventh day, we will arrive in Kathmandu.
Highlights of Nepal Mardi Himal Trek
- Fishtail and Mardi Himal up close.
- Peaceful stroll in an oak and rhododendron forest.
- A short and easy trekking route in the Annapurna region.
- Varied terrain and fauna.
- Discover the Gurung culture in the area.
- Among the best places to take pictures.
Detailed Itinerary - Mardi Himal Trek (7 Days)
After a 6- to 7-hour trip to Pokhara Valley and its breathtaking Phewa Tal (lake), we settle into your hotel near the lake. There are lots of stores, pubs, and eateries along Lakeside to keep you occupied. (Option: take a picturesque 30-minute flight to Pokhara.)
Right after breakfast in Pokhara, you will have a short, scenic drive to Phedi, the starting point of your trek, which is about 30 minutes away. The trail right away ascends through stone steps and terraced fields, passing through beautiful Gurung villages. You will begin an uphill trek to Dhampus, which is at an altitude of 1,750m, a beautiful village offering a panoramic view of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. From there, the trail enters into a lush forested path leading to Pothana, a peaceful settlement surrounded by rhododendron and oak trees. Pothana offers stunning sunset views over the Himalayas and is an excellent place to rest overnight.
Overnight at lodge in Pothana.
Leaving Pothana, you’ll take a quiet trail that rises gradually through dense forest of rhododendrons, oaks, and maples. The route passes by Deurali at 2,100 meters, where a small clearing opens up to offer great views of the Annapurna Range and Pokhara Valley below. From Deurali, you continue on the less-traveled Mardi Himal trail, dropping into deep forest. The trek today is tranquil, with birdsong and the occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks above the trees. In about 6 hours of trekking, you reach Forest Camp at 2,540 meters, a quiet resting spot surrounded by thick jungle.
Overnight at lodge in Forest Camp.
Today is a higher trek into more alpine terrain, and the trees become much shorter as the altitude increases. The trail then passes Low Camp at 3,050m, from where there are spectacular views of Machhapuchhre-Fishtail and Mardi Himal. The forest now opens up as you reach open ridges with breathtaking mountain vistas on every side. Continuing along the narrow ridge, the path reaches High Camp at 3,580m, offering a spectacular view at sunset over Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. It will get quite cold, the air thinner, and the evening chilly, but the mountain panorama viewed is really rewarding.
You start off early today, as the highlight of your trek awaits: Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail is steep and rough, but the reward is great. As you rise along the ridge, the views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre get more spectacular. It takes about 3 hours to reach Base Camp, which is at an altitude of 4,500m, for breathtaking close-up views of Mardi Himal and other peaks around. After spending some time, you will head back for the night at Low Camp, following the same route back carefully down the ridge.
Overnight at the lodge in Low Camp.
After breakfast, you will begin your descent through forested trails towards Kalimati, passing small villages and terraced farms along the way. Downhill is easy and scenic, with chirping birds, now and then with glimpses of the Himalayas. Once at Kalimati, a vehicle will be arranged for you to drive back to Pokhara, which takes about 2 hours. You may spend your time in Pokhara by Phewa Lake, enjoy a nice dinner, and reflect on your amazing trek journey.
Overnight at the hotel in Pokhara.
After breakfast, you will either drive to Kathmandu on the scenic Prithvi Highway or take a short 25-minute flight. The drive is on winding roads with spectacular views of river valleys, terrace farms, and occasional villages dotting the landscape. Later in the day, arrive at Kathmandu and spend the afternoon at leisure, either exploring Thamel for souvenirs or resting from your adventure. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
What's Included
A complete overview of everything included in the Mardi Himal Trek package:
- Airport Transfers
Private vehicle for airport pick-up and drop-off upon arrival and departure. - Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara
- 2 nights in a standard 3-star hotel
- Daily breakfast included
- Twin-sharing room basis
- Transportation
- Tourist bus Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu
- Private jeep/car to Kande or Phedi (trek start point)
- Return transport from Siding/Lwang to Pokhara
- Meals During the Trek
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at mountain teahouses
- Seasonal fruits in the evening
- Hot drinks (tea/coffee) as per the package
- Teahouse Accommodation
- Comfortable lodge/teahouse rooms during the trek
- Shared bathroom facilities
- Blanket and mattress provided in lodges
- Professional Trekking Staff
- Licensed English-speaking Trekking Guide
- Porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
- All staff covered with insurance, meals, accommodation, and equipment
- Trekking Permits
All necessary permits for the Mardi Himal Trek:- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- Essential Safety Gear
Guide carries:- First-aid medical kit
- Oximeter for daily altitude checks
- Maps and emergency route plan
- Company Expenses & Taxes
- All official service charges
- Government taxes
- Office support during the trek
What's Not Included
Items that are not included in the Mardi Himal trekking cost:
- Travel Insurance
- Meals in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Lunches and dinners in the city before/after the trek. - Personal Trekking Equipment
- Extra Beverages & Snacks
- Personal Expenses
- Hot shower (if charged)
- Wi-Fi and charging fees in teahouses
- Laundry or shopping
- Unscheduled transportation
- Tips for Guide & Porter
Not mandatory but highly appreciated. - Emergency Rescue Costs
Helicopter evacuation if required (covered by your travel insurance).
Departure Dates
Route Map & Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions - Mardi Himal Trek
The trek typically takes 4–7 days, depending on your itinerary and how far you trek each day.
It is considered a moderate trek, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The final ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp is steeper and more challenging.
The best seasons are:
Spring (March–May)
Autumn (September–November)
These offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent mountain visibility.
The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,763 ft).
Yes, trekkers need:
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
TIMS Card
Yes! Many beginners complete it. However, good physical fitness is helpful, especially for the steep sections.
From Mardi Himal viewpoints, you can see:
Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
Annapurna South
Hiunchuli
Annapurna I & II
Mardi Peak
Expect to spend USD 250–700, depending on guide/porter services, accommodations, food, and route.
It is less crowded than popular treks like ABC or Poon Hill, although it has become more popular in recent years.
Temperatures can drop below -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) at High Camp and above, depending on the season.
Essentials include warm clothing, good trekking boots, rain gear, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, water purification, and a basic first-aid kit.
Useful Info
Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty
Depending on your physical condition, the Mardi Himal trek might be rated as moderate to tough. Those with adequate physical health can easily finish the walk. It could be difficult, though, if you have certain medical issues like asthma. In a short amount of time, the trip reaches a noteworthy altitude of 4500 meters. Thus, you are frequently at danger for altitude sickness. Therefore, the easiest method to deal with it is to properly acclimate and eat a balanced diet. You must also be ready for the lengthy walks. To reach 8 to 15 km or more, you will need to walk for roughly 5 to 6 hours every day.
Altitude Sickness During Trek
Another typical issue that is likely to arise on the Mardi Himal base camp trek is altitude sickness, which is the agony and suffering brought on by the high journey altitude. Acclimatization strategies include using the proper climbing skills, drinking enough water, and being aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Headache, nausea, appetite loss, dyspnea, and exhaustion are symptoms of altitude sickness. To avoid and treat the disease, it is advised that you consult a doctor and take Diamox (acetazolamide). Be ready for a helicopter evacuation in the worst situation.
Mardi Himal Trek Cost
The total cost of the Mardi Himal hike is $500 per person. The length of the journey, the number of people in your group, the kind of lodges or teahouses you will stay at, and whether you go trekking alone or with a travel agency can all affect how much it costs.
Safety and Security
With a well-kept hiking track and numerous teahouses along the route, the Mardi Himal trek map is a safe walk. However, hikers should always be aware of the possibility of altitude sickness when climbing, particularly above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). Walking at a steady pace, properly acclimating, and staying hydrated are all crucial. Because they are knowledgeable about the local customs, weather, and topography, hiring a local guide can improve your trekking experience. Although theft incidents are uncommon, it is advisable to avoid carrying any valuables when hiking. You can leave them at your hotel or in our office.
Book Mardi Himal Trek with Confidence
Join Top Trail Nepal, your trusted local trekking agency in Kathmandu, for the journey of a lifetime. Our experienced guides, strong safety record, and personal service make your Everest dream come true.
- $790 1 people
- $750 2 people
- $685 4 - 6 people
- $650 7 - 12 people