70% repeat customers, delivering consistently unforgettable experiences every time.
Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
Stunning views of numerous mountain peaks, including Mardi Himal, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri, during an unforgettable adventure.
Sunrise before the mountains at the Mardi Upper Viewpoint.
It begins with exciting sightseeing around Kathmandu and a scenic drive to Pokhara.
Pokhara visit, including boating in Phewa Lake and dinner at the lakeside
Encounter many waterfalls and rivers that are hidden within the subtropical forest of the Mardi Trek map
Witness the rich biodiversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area while spotting the rare flora and fauna
Comfortable stay and great food in the newly built tea houses along the trail
Avoid the crowd of Annapurna Base Camp Trek in the peak season and enjoy the solitude of nature all by yourself.
Mardi Himal Trek Overview
Mardi Himal Trek is a 5-day adventure that has recently gained popularity because of its easy access. The starting point of the trek is Pokhara, which is at 820 meters, leading you to the highest point, 4,200 meters, at Mardi Himal Base Camp. You will find ample teahouses and meal options throughout the trek, making your trekking adventure comfortable. Rich in flora and fauna, you can witness species such as Musk deer, Danfe, and many more if you are lucky enough.
5 Days Mardi Himal Trek
The Journey to Hidden Himalayan Gems adventure offers stunning mountain views. Notable peaks include Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre. The trek is about 200 kilometers (14 miles) from the Capital City, Kathmandu. To reach Pokhara, take a bus ride for 6 to 7 hours or take a direct flight for 30 minutes, followed by a 2-hour ride to Kande. Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of the Nepal Mardi Himal trek has gained popularity with its panoramic Annapurna views, less crowded trails, and diverse landscapes.
5 Days Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary
Day
1
Drive to Kande and trek to Forest Camp
After Breakfast drive towards Kande, the starting point of the trek. It takes about 2 hours to ride via hemja. We will begin our trekking adventure upon reaching here, leading us to the Australian Base Camp. There, we will make a short stop for lunch while enjoying the beautiful views of the Himalayas.
Resuming our journey, we will get to Deurali. From Deurali, the trail is rather relaxing as we walk through the thick forest. There are a few uphill and downhill walks before we reach the forest camp for the night. The forest camp has about ten tea houses where we can get good food and comfortable sleep.
Day
2
Trek to Low Camp / High Camp
Day 2 offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. We will enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Forest Camp before embarking on a shorter, scenic trek to Low Camp. The path meanders through thick forests, with occasional viewpoints providing stunning mountain panoramas. After half an hour, we stopped at a viewpoint for the mountain panorama.
The Mardi Himal trail is not marked well as we walk upwards in the forest, so following the guide’s instructions is crucial. After trekking for a few hours, we arrive at Low Camp by early afternoon, giving us plenty of time to rest and soak in the majestic mountain views.
Day
3
Trek to High Camp
The walking distance from Low Camp to High Camp of Mardi Himal Peak is only about 4 to 5 hours, so we start walking quite late in the morning. After breakfast at Low Camp, we started walking uphill at 7 am. As we trek, we will witness the forest changing into landscapes with small gaps.
After passing Middle Camp, we will follow a newly made stone path and enjoy the fantastic mountain views. From 2 to 3 p.m., we will rest in one of the well-established lodges, which feel surprisingly cozy for such an isolated location.
Day
4
Trek to Mardi Base Camp/ viewpoint and back to Badal Dada
Today marks the highlight of our overall adventure. Also considered to be the most challenging part of our entire journey, to complete it, we will start our trek at around 4:30 or 5:00 am, before sunrise. If we successfully reach a viewpoint before dawn, we will see the best views of the camp from there. The opinions of entire mountain vistas turning Golden in the morning are the most fantastic sight of Annapurna, Fishtail, and Mardi during the trek.
From there, we can walk to the Base Camp or return to the High Camp. While many trekkers choose to return to High Camp, we highly recommend continuing to Mardi Himal Base Camp, a 3-hour trek further up, to fully experience the grandeur of the Himalayas before heading back to badeldada.
Day
5
Trek to Siding and Drive to Pokhara
On Day 5, we begin our descent, trekking from badeldada to shining . The Mardi Himal trail to Seding is quite steep, and you must be careful about falling rocks. But the changing landscapes, from alpine meadows to dense forests, make it a visually rewarding journey.
After 5 to 6 hours of walking, we finally reached shining At Seding, a private Jeep will be waiting for us. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we can relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy a well-deserved meal, and explore the bustling Lakeside district one last time.
The above map shows that your journey will start from Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, you’ll be going to Pokhara, which is at an altitude of 800m. Reaching Pokhara from Kathmandu will take you 8hours on a touristbus and 25minutes by flight. According to our Mardi Himal trek map and itinerary, we will drive you to Kande through Hemja Kande after you reach Pokhara. After you reach Kande, you will start your trekking journey. As seen on the map, you’ll trek toward forest camp from Kande.
To reach Forest Camp, you’ll go through the Australian camp. The overall journey takes 7 hours to reach Forest camp, which is at an elevation of 2600m. After Forest Camp, go to Low Camp at 3150m according to our map. To reach Low camp from Forest camp, it will take 3 to 4 hours on foot. As per our Map, your next trekking journey will go to High camp after Low camp. The elevation of the High camp is 3580m, and it takes only 4 to 5 hours to reach the Low camp. As per our map itinerary, your next and final destination will be Mardi upper viewpoint.
It takes you to reach the Mardi Upper viewpoint is 5 hours. You can see the mountains from the Mardi upper viewpoint, including Annapurna, Machhapuchre, and Mardi. As per our map itinerary, you can either trek to base camp or return to Upper camp. It takes 3 hours to reach the base camp from Mardi’s upper viewpoint, but the mountain views are unclear. It’s best to go back to the Upper camp. As the map shows, you’ll return from your journey after reaching your destination. You will hike to Phedi. After crossing Modi Khola, reaching Phedi will take 4 to 5 hours.
After reaching Phedi by foot, you’ll finally return to Pokhara through 2 hours of driving. Per our map itinerary, your journey will end, and you’ll return to Kathmandu, where your journey started. It takes you 8 hours to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara. You’ll go through Prithivi Highway to reach Kathmandu. Before reaching Kathmandu, you’ll enjoy the view of the Trishuli River and the fantastic forest during the drive.
What To Expect?
What's included
Meals on the entire board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the whole trekking
Trekking map
An experienced Government license holder guide
Insurance, salary, equipment, transportation, local tax for guide,
Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available)
All necessary paper works and national park entry permits
Travel and rescue arrangement
All government taxes and tourist service charges
What's not included
Meals in Kathmandu before and after trekking.
Your travel insurance ( Rescue )
Nepal entry visa fee.
Tips for trekking staff and driver
Drinks (hot, cold, and alcoholic)
Trekking porter/Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
Personal shopping and laundry etc
Personal trekking equipment
We Offer Group Discount
No. of Tourists
Price Per Person in USD
1 Paxes
$530
2 - 5 Paxes
$405
Review
Puru recommended this trek to me as I was a first-time trekker and didn’t want to do the long and arduous trek. This was a perfect choice, and Puru arranged everything so I did not have to worry about anything. He provided me with a lovely guide who always had my well-being in mind. The Mardi Himal is a beautiful...
Deborah Australia
Puru recommended this trek to me as I was a first-time trekker and didn’t want to do the long and arduous trek. This was a perfect choice, and Puru arranged everything so I did not have to worry about anything. He provided me with a lovely guide who always had my well-being in mind.
The Mardi Himal is a beautiful trek with gorgeous views and lovely walking trails. My guide was very helpful in taking pictures with my camera and pointed out the good spots for photos. He did this trek many times but did not scatter over it but told me many stories. When we returned to Pokhara after the tour, I wanted an extra day in Pokhara to relax and explore the surroundings. This was no problem, I just contacted Puru, and he made the arrangements quickly.
I will recommend the Mardi Himal trek, but most of all, I will recommend My Everest Trip as they provide top service, makes you feel good taking care of, and all the staff I met were excellent and kind people. I would love to do another trek with you guys again.
Thank you so much.
Deborah Australia
Good itinerary, skilled staff, reasonable price, and excellent service provided by My Everest Trip and the manager Puru added so much to this Trek. The safety and well-being of the clients are a top priority. During the whole Trek, our guide and porters showed respect and kindness. The daily walks between 4 and 6 hours leave you time to admire...
Annette Denmark
Good itinerary, skilled staff, reasonable price, and excellent service provided by My Everest Trip and the manager Puru added so much to this Trek.
The safety and well-being of the clients are a top priority. During the whole Trek, our guide and porters showed respect and kindness.
The daily walks between 4 and 6 hours leave you time to admire the gorgeous surroundings. The Mardi Himal trek sure is excellent, and since we did this Trek in the spring, the blooming rhododendrons were at their peak. Being in the Himalayas region is always a pleasure, and being with good people makes it more joyful.
I appreciate everything My Everest Trip did to make this a great trip, and I highly recommend this company.
Annette Denmark
Additional Information
View Form Mardi Himal
The Mardi Himal trek, 7 days, will offer you a more significant opportunity to witness the unique landscapes of Nepal. Some famous villages you pass by with this adventure include Siding, Lwang, and Ghale. With the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, you can immerse yourself in the rich local culture and traditions. Along the way, you can experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
You will also see terraced farms, sacred rivers, and traditional lifestyles. The Mardi Himal trail is a relatively less crowded path, which allows you to connect deeply with the region’s natural beauty and serenity. As you trek, stunning panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks will greet you.
The mountains you can witness on this trek include:
Annapurna Range
Dhaulagiri (8167m)
Manaslu Mountain Range
Mount Machhapuchhre (6988m)
Mt. Hiunchuli (6441m)
Mardi Himal Peak (5587m)
My Everest Trip ensures you stay safe and comfortable while trekking in Nepal with our highly experienced Trek to Mardi Himal. Or, if you want to know more about what it’s like to take this trip.
Where to Stay In the Mardi Himal Trek?
Accommodation is provided in teahouses on the Mardi Himal trek. They are small lodges run by local families, offering simple rooms, usually with a bed, mattress, pillow, and blanket. The rooms are often shared between two or more people, but they provide a basic level of comfort after a long day of trekking. The facilities are clean but basic, with shared bathrooms and limited hot water. Some teahouses at lower elevations might offer extra comforts like Wi-Fi or charging points, but these amenities are usually limited as you go higher.
As the trek climbs to higher altitudes, the teahouses become more rustic and simple. There may be fewer rooms, and hot showers or electricity availability is often reduced. However, the warmth and friendliness of the local hosts make up for the lack of luxury. Offering a communal area, you can gather with fellow trekkers and enjoy the warmth of wood stoves while sharing stories and enjoying the mountain views. Despite the basic accommodations, the experience of staying in these traditional lodges adds to the charm of the trek.
Meals in the Mardi Himal Trek
During the Mardi Himal short trek, meals are designed to provide the energy needed for long days of hiking. Most teahouses serve a set menu with Nepali and international dishes. The most common meal is dal bhat, a traditional Nepali dish with rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry. Other options include noodle dishes, pasta, soups, and momos (Nepali dumplings). Many meals use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, especially at lower altitudes where farming is more common.
As you ascend, food choices can become more limited due to the remote location and difficulty transporting supplies. However, the meal you have will be wholesome and satisfying. As for a hot drink, you will also get multiple options, from tea and coffee to ginger lemon honey tea. These drinks are perfect for warming up after a cold day of trekking. Even though the meals available can be simple, they keep you fueled and ready for the challenges of the trail.
Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times for the Mardi Himal trek, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. The trail is adorned with blooming rhododendron forests, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The views of the snow-capped peaks like Machhapuchhre and Annapurna are stunning, and the weather is generally stable. This season is ideal for those looking to experience beautiful scenery and pleasant hiking.
Summer (June to August)
Summer coincides with the monsoon season in Nepal, making the Mardi Himal trek more challenging due to heavy rainfall and slippery trails. Clouds often obscure the mountain views, and there is an increased risk of landslides. However, the landscapes become lush and green, and those willing to trek in the rain can enjoy fewer crowds. Be prepared for wet conditions and leeches on the trail.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the most popular time for the Mardi Himal trek, offering crisp weather, clear skies, and stunning mountain views. The temperatures are mild, and the monsoon rains have cleared the atmosphere, making the distant peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre sharply visible. This season attracts many trekkers, so the trails and teahouses may be more crowded, but the ideal weather makes it worth it.
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings cold temperatures and snow to higher elevations, making the Mardi Himal trek more difficult. However, the clear skies and crisp air provide excellent visibility of the mountain ranges. The trails are much quieter during this time, offering solitude for those who don’t mind the cold. Proper winter gear is essential, and the lower parts of the trek remain accessible even during the coldest months.
Cost For Mardi Himal Trek
The cost of the Mardi Trek varies depending on factors like duration, inclusions, and the trekking agency chosen. This trek can, on average, range from $400 to $900, covering permits, guides, accommodation, meals, and transportation. I’m selecting a reputable trekking company that provides a transparent breakdown of costs and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience in the scenic Mardi Himal region.
That’s because people have yet to acknowledge the beauty of the after-rain view, which is one of the perks of the summer trek. However, you must avoid the evening walk and aim to reach the destination quickly. With raincoats, bag covers, and rain boots, summer treks on the Mardi Himal trek 9 days are easily achievable with the right gear.
You will need significantly less packaging, and the walk will get easier. Similarly, the clear views of winter with the thick layer of snow are second to none. All the regions above 3000 to 3500m are covered in snow, and you will be surrounded by paradise.
All you need is an extra pair of clothes and good guidance from the MyEverestTrip team’s expert. This being the off-season for trekking in Nepal, the trails are quiet and peaceful. The tea houses are mostly empty, so you can enjoy the utmost attention and get a discount. Good luck.
Difficulty Around Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal trek is considered moderate in terms of difficulty. It is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trail involves a mix of steep ascents, rugged paths, and narrow ridges, which can be physically challenging, especially at higher altitudes. However, compared to more intense treks in Nepal, the Mardi Himal trek is manageable for most well-prepared and acclimatized trekkers.
Here are five significant difficulties you may face:
Steep Ascents and Descents
The trek involves several steep ascents and descents, particularly as you approach the High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp. Uphill climbs can be strenuous and require endurance and strength, while downhill sections can stress the knees. Proper trekking poles and pacing yourself will help reduce the strain.
Altitude Sickness
As the trek reaches altitudes above 4,000 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp, there is a risk of altitude sickness. You can witness symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, making the trek more challenging. To avoid altitude sickness, you should acclimatize properly by ascending gradually and staying hydrated throughout the journey.
Narrow and Rocky Trails
Parts of the trail, especially near the High Camp, become narrow and rocky, requiring careful navigation. These sections can be tricky, particularly in bad weather. Also, this section can be pretty challenging if you fear heights. Trekking in a group or with a guide is recommended for safety on these rugged paths.
Unpredictable Weather
The weather in the mountains can be highly unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. You may experience sudden temperature drops, strong winds, or even snowfall, making the trail more difficult and uncomfortable. Proper gear for all weather conditions is essential to managing this challenge.
Physical Endurance
The Mardi Himal trek is not extremely long, but it demands a good level of physical fitness. You need the stamina to walk for several hours daily over varying terrain, including steep climbs, forested trails, and exposed ridges. You should train and build your strength to complete this adventurous journey.
Why 9 Days Mardi Himal Trek Instead of 5 Days?
The advantages of choosing the 9-day version over the 5-day version for the Mardi Himal trek include better acclimatization. This longer itinerary involves fewer chances of altitude sickness since your body will get enough time to acclimate to the higher altitude. Since the daily hikes are much shorter, they can be done leisurely, accommodating all fitness levels comfortably.
This means that the overall trek can be less physically straining and thus can increase your overall experience of the trekking journey. These days, they can visit local villages in more detail and get to know the culture. You will not be so hurried that you can enjoy great views of the Annapurna range and other peaks. Besides, this 9-day trek allows for more flexibility in case of bad weather or other unexpected delays. Overall, an increased number of days means more safety and pleasure in general.
Who Can Trek to Mardi Himal?
The Mardi Himal trek is suitable for many trekkers, including beginners. Its easy accessibility and trekking trails are perfect for those with basic fitness levels and some or no prior hiking experience. Beginners will find moderate difficulty manageable, especially with proper preparation and a good guide. You will get well-marked trails and many teahouses along the way, making it a welcoming option for those new to trekking in the Himalayas.
While it caters to beginners, this trek is also popular among casual hikers and those looking for a less crowded alternative to more popular trails. If you are looking for the best family trekking route, the Mardi Himal can be for you. While the trek involves some steep sections and altitude gains, it is generally not overly strenuous. With adequate pacing, hydration, and acclimatization, most people can enjoy the stunning views and unique cultural experiences along the Mardi Himal trail.
Cultural Encounters Along the Mardi Himal Trek
Offering you a rich cultural trek, you will get to explore the various cultures and traditions of those residing here. Most of the people living here are Gurungs and Magars. Some significant villages you will pass through include Siding, Lwang, and Ghale. Upon reaching there, you can interact closely with friendly locals, learn about their daily lives, and witness their traditional practices. Many people indulge in agriculture and grow captivating rice, millet, and vegetables. The culture of the area is also reflected in the architecture. You will also notice beautifully crafted wooden houses.
This adventure offers a chance for cultural immersion, and you can participate in festivals if your timing allows. The traditional dances, music, and rituals of the rich heritage of the Gurung and Magar will be evident. A visit to the local monastery and temple will provide valuable insight into the spiritual beliefs of its inhabitants, where traces of Buddhist and Hindu influence can be found in their practices. Homestays or village visits engage you with the native people, creating memories and attachments with the region’s heritage.
Combined Mardi Himal Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Planning on adding some extra adventure to your journey? Try combining the Mardi Himal Trek with the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This merger allows you to experience two beautiful trekking adventures in Nepal in just one route. Lasting for about 12 to 14 days, this journey will enable you to explore the diverse landscapes, witness breathtaking mountain views, and immerse yourself in rich local culture.
While taking the ABC route, you will navigate beautiful rhododendron forests, charming villages, and the Annapurna Sanctuary. Throughout the journey, you will witness stunning views of peaks such as Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the majestic Annapurna I. Located above 5,000 meters, this adventure will take you to the base of the 10th highest mountain in the world, Mount Annapurna. The people’s beautiful views and warm hospitality make this trek worth exploring.
Combining the Mardi Himal and ABC treks is ideal for those seeking a more comprehensive trekking experience in the Annapurna region. You can enjoy the less crowded trails of Mardi Himal before joining the more popular ABC route. Both treks offer a perfect blend of cultural encounters, stunning landscapes, and challenging terrains, catering to those seeking a diverse and fulfilling trekking adventure.
Why Choose My Everest Trip?
MyEverestTrip is a Nepalese Travel and Trekking Agency based in Kathmandu. We have been operating in different trekking regions for over a decade and have traveled with hundreds of travelers worldwide.
With the pure intention of bringing trekkers to Nepal safely and comfortably, we have an entire team of travel planners, guides, and porters. We also have connections to hotels and restaurant lines throughout Nepal to ensure our trekkers get the best possible facilities.
So, here is the reason why you should travel with MyEverestTrip
FAQs
What are the Permits for Mardi Trek?
Mardi Himal Trekking Permit
You need two kinds of permits for the Mardi Trek. The first is ACAP, an entry card to the Annapurna Conservation Area. This $30 permit (Rs 200 for SAARC countries) can be issued from Kathmandu/ Pokhara or even at the entry point while you are traveling. The money goes for the management of the conversation area itself. The following permit is called a TIMS card and costs $20 for solo trekkers and $10 for group trekkers. The government issues the Mardi Himal Permit, which helps trace your movement within the country.
Is there Internet Service in Mardi Base Camp Trek
Internet in the Mardi Trek is available but relatively slow. There’s no issue with free Wi-Fi in Deurali. Wi-Fi costs a few dollars ($1 to $3) in low and high-Mardi base camps. But the internet is volatile and slow. It would be helpful to send some texts, but you cannot stream or upload high-quality videos with such a connection. Back to Siding, you might find free Wi-Fi with a not-so-good link.
How Long is Mardi Trek?
The Mardi Trek typically takes 5 to 7 days to complete, starting from Pokhara. The duration can vary depending on the itinerary and the pace of the trekker.
Can you trek Mardi Himal without a guide?
You can trek Mardi Himal without a guide, as the trails are generally well-marked. However, having a guide is recommended for a safer and more informative experience. Solo trekkers should possess good navigation skills and be familiar with the trail conditions.
Are there any age restrictions for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek?
There are no official age restrictions for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. However, if you are trekking here, you should be healthy and possess a reasonable fitness level. As we recommended, we recommend not trekking with children below 10 and adults above 70.
Is Mardi Himal Trek suitable for beginner trekkers?
The Mardi Himal Trek is generally considered suitable for beginner trekkers due to its well-marked trails and moderate difficulty. However, if you are a beginner, you need to be physically prepared. Your itinerary should also include proper acclimatization days. Also, hiring a guide or porter is generally recommended on this journey.
What are the mountains seen from the top of Mardi Viewpoint?
You can enjoy stunning views of several prominent mountains from the Mardi Viewpoint, including Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The panoramic scenery from this viewpoint is a significant highlight of the trek.
Is tipping necessary for porters and guides in the Mardi Himal Trek?
Tipping is not mandatory in Nepal’s trekking industry, but is generally appreciated for exemplary service. If you are satisfied with the assistance your guide and porters provided, a tip is a great way to show your gratitude. The amount can range from $50 to $200, depending on your will and the service you received.
Sankranti in Sanskrit means ‘transition’ or simply ‘going from one place to another.’ So, in simple terms, Maghe Sankranti implies the arrival of Magh (माघ),…
