The Mardi Himal Trek is a spectacular short trekking adventure in the Annapurna region, ideal for travelers seeking pristine nature, solitude, and awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas. The trek begins from Kande near Pokhara and passes through lush forests, traditional villages, and high ridges, culminating at the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). Along the way, trekkers enjoy close-up views of iconic peaks such as Mt. Mardi (5,553 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,997 m), Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), and Mt. Putha Hiunchuli (7,246 m). The moderate difficulty makes it suitable for those with a good level of fitness, offering a balance of adventure, nature, and cultural exposure.
Itinerary – Mardi Himal Trek 2025/2026
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide for a briefing and explore Kathmandu at leisure.
Food: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Elevation: 1,350 m
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
Full-day sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley UNESCO heritage sites: Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Food: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Elevation: 1,350 m
Day 3: Drive to Pokhara
Scenic 200 km drive to Pokhara along rivers and rolling hills. Relax by Phewa Lake or explore the town in the afternoon.
Food: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Elevation: 900 m
Day 4: Drive to Kande & Trek to Deurali (2,100 m)
Drive to Kande, trek via Australian Camp and Pothana to Deurali (4–5 hrs). Pass the ACAP/TIMS checkpoint along the way.
Food: BLD
Accommodation: Lodge
Elevation: 2,100 m
Day 5: Trek to Forest Camp (2,600 m)
Trek through dense forests with rhododendron trees, moss, and ferns. Arrive at Forest Camp and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Food: BLD
Accommodation: Lodge
Elevation: 2,600 m
Day 6: Trek to High Camp (3,600 m)
Ascend above the tree line via grassy pastures and small rhododendron bushes. Enjoy views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
Food: BLD
Accommodation: Lodge
Elevation: 3,600 m
Day 7: Hike to Base Camp (4,500 m) & Trek to Low Camp (2,900 m)
Reach Mardi Himal Base Camp along the ridge (5 hrs). Descend to Sidhing village (4 hrs) for an overnight stay. Witness spectacular close-up mountain views.
Food: BLD
Accommodation: Lodge
Elevation: 2,900 m
Day 8: Trek to Sidding & Drive to Pokhara
Short trek to Sidding, then drive back to Pokhara. Leisure time in the evening.
Food: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Elevation: 900 m
Day 9: Drive to Kathmandu
Drive back to Kathmandu by mid-afternoon. Optional farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Food: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Elevation: 1,350 m
Day 10: Final Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight or continue with additional activities in Kathmandu.
Food: Breakfast
Trip Cost Includes
Airport pick-up & drop-off
3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin sharing)
2 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara (twin sharing)
Breakfasts in Kathmandu & Pokhara
Basic lodge accommodation during trek
Professional trekking guide
Necessary number of porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
Trekking permits and TIMS card
All overland transportation
Guide insurance including emergency rescue
Equipment for guides & porters
First aid kits and duffle bag
Trip Cost Excludes
International flights, travel insurance, and Nepal visa fees
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
Alcohol and personal drinks
Tips for guides and porters
Private transport if required
Any other expenses due to unforeseen circumstances
Why Choose Mardi Himal Trek 2025/2026
Secluded Trails & Less Crowded
Unlike the more popular Annapurna or Everest treks, Mardi Himal offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience, letting you immerse yourself in nature without the crowds.
Breathtaking Himalayan Views
Witness stunning close-up views of Mt. Mardi, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Putha Hiunchuli from the Base Camp and High Camp ridges.
Short & Rewarding Trek
Perfect for those with limited time, this 10-day trek combines moderate challenge with incredible scenery, making it accessible for moderately fit trekkers.
Diverse Landscapes
Trek through lush rhododendron forests, alpine pastures, and high mountain ridges, experiencing the dramatic shift from subtropical valleys to the high Himalayas.
Cultural Experience
Enjoy Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites before the trek and explore traditional Gurung and Magar villages along the trail, gaining insight into local Nepali culture.
Professional Support & Safety
Experienced guides, trained porters, first aid kits, and emergency procedures ensure a safe and well-supported trekking adventure.
Unique Photography Opportunities
From sunrise over the Annapurna range to wildlife sightings like the colorful Danphe pheasant, the trek offers endless opportunities for nature and landscape photography.