5,587-metre (18,330 ft)
MAX-ALTITUDEAnnapurna, Nepal
LOCATIONGROUP-SIZE
Minimum 02DIFFICULTY
ModerateThis is a short, relatively easy, and most beautiful trek not far from Pokhara. This trip covers some of the breathtaking Himalayan ranges, glacial valleys, and hidden landscape of the Annapurna Region with diverse culture and tradition. Basic facilities and teahouses are limited so camping trek is also possible in this route. The trail goes along small winding paths, through a miraculous rhododendron forest until you reach the forest camp at an elevation of 3300 meters. The landscape eventually sets on the rugged trail dominated by the rugged high mountains landscape with amazing views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna and Hiunchuli. The trail undulates along the ridge and after a tiresome walk; you climb up to High camp and Mardi Himal base Camp on the following day. The entire Annapurna range is visible from the mardi himal base camp view point.
Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal
If you’re dreaming of vibrant rhododendron blooms or crystal-clear mountain vistas, plan your trek in spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November). During these windows, the skies are generally stable, the trails are dry, and you’ll be treated to postcard-perfect views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
What to Pack for the Mardi Himal Trek
Heading into the Himalayas means preparing for four seasons in one day, think moisture-wicking layers, a down jacket, waterproof shell and trusty hiking boots. Don’t forget sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF) and a compact water filter if you’re going off-grid.
Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m/4593ft)
Arrival at Kathmandu. Meet, assist and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the Hotel. (Welcome Dinner)
Day 02
Fly to Pokhara (25 mins), Drive to Dhampus (1 hr), Trek to Forest Camp (6 hrs).
Early breakfast, meet your Guide, and take a scenic flight to Pokhara. On the arrival at Pokhara meets our Sherpa and drives to Dhampus from where our trekking starts.
Overnight at Teahouse. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 03
Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3700m/121405ft) - 6 hours
Further proceeding on the tough forest, the sound of insects-like Cicadas surrounds you. Continuing further, a trail keeps being darker and gloomy even under sunshine, feels damp soil and smells of decaying leaves and woods. Arrive High camp for overnight stay.
Overnight at teahouse lodge. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 04
Hike up to Mardi Himal Base Camp and return to Mid Camp or Low Camp – 7 hours
Early morning at around 5:00, start hiking up to Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is also a viewpoint. You will have an awesome view of mountains such as Mardi Himal (5587m), Annapurna South (7219m), and Annapurna I (8091m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Tent Peak (5695m), Machapuchhre (6993) also called Fishtail. After spending some time, we descend down to High Camp for our full breakfast and then down to Mid camp or Low camp according to our convenience.
Overnight at teahouse lodge. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 5
Mid Camp/Low Camp to Pokhara/Kathmandu
We will start our trek early in the morning after breakfast. Descend down to Siding for lunch and from there drive back to Pokhara. Fly back to Kathmandu, last flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu will be at 3:35 PM.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. (Breakfast, Lunch and Farewell Dinner)
Day 06
Final Departure.
Rest until your final departure. (Breakfast Included)
Got any question or Inquiries about the trip ?
In the morning after breakfast go for a walk and later return for lunch. After lunch the guest are free to rest.
Call our experts +977-9851031177
Inclusions
Cost Includes
- Airport arrival and departure service on private tourist vehicles with a/c.
- Welcome Garlands of seasonal flowers upon arrival.
- Himalayan Holidays Nepal's Duffle bag to carry your luggage during trek.
- Welcome Dinner in a traditional Nepali restaurant with some cultural dance programs.
- 2 nights stay at a 3 or 4 star hotel in Kathmandu and 1 night stay at Pokhara on a twin sharing basis including breakfast and all taxes.
- Tea House Trek as per Itinerary including meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) accommodation at Lodges and Tea Houses, and the service of experienced English speaking trek Guide.
- Cost of required number guide, sherpas and porters and their meals and insurance.
- Annapurna Conservation Area fees & TIMS Permit.
- Farewell Dinner in a restaurant which is famous among trekkers and climbers.
Cost Excludes
- International airfares and airport departure taxes.
- Flight Fare from Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu quoted separately.
- Items of a personal nature such as; laundry, bar bills, snacks, alcoholic beverages, extra mileage, optional tours such as Mountain Flights, telephone calls, internet services, personal gratuities as tips to guides, bell-hops or hotel porters, drivers, etc.
- Mineral water bottle during the trek.
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance or "Umbrella Insurance" to cover – Illness, hospitalization, travel medicines, loss of valuables, thefts, change of itinerary, flight and tour cancellations due to unavoidable circumstances and most of all Emergency Helicopter Charter for evacuation purpose.
- Tips for guide, porters and sherpas.
- Any items that are not mentioned in above the costs include section.
Availability
Book this trip with us from the following dates. For Custom Trips or general inquiries, Contact Us.
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Dec 07 (Thursday)
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Dec 10 (Sunday)
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on your pace and chosen itinerary. Most trekking days involve 4–6 hours of walking, covering 10–15 km on undulating trails. It’s a relatively short trek compared to others in the Annapurna region, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a real Himalayan adventure.
This trek is considered moderately challenging. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, it does involve steep ascents and some narrow ridge paths. The highest sleeping point is at High Camp (3,580 m), with Mardi Himal Base Camp reaching up to 4,500 m. Good physical fitness, a bit of endurance, and mental readiness for mountain trekking are all helpful.
The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring offers blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn is known for crystal-clear skies and uninterrupted mountain views. Winter treks are possible but come with colder nights and occasional snow. The monsoon season (June–August) is generally not recommended due to rain and leeches.
You’ll need two permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
These are mandatory for all foreign trekkers and can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Most trekking agencies handle this for you as part of the package. Make sure to carry your permits and a passport copy during the trek.
Expect to stay in basic mountain teahouses. These are simple but cozy lodges offering shared rooms, clean bedding, and hearty meals. Bathrooms are usually shared, and hot showers may cost extra or be unavailable at higher altitudes. Food options include dal bhat (lentils and rice), noodles, soup, eggs, and occasional Western dishes. Vegetarian and vegan meals are easy to find.
Absolutely! The Mardi Himal Trek rewards you with stunning close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. As you climb higher, you leave the forest behind and reach open ridgelines with panoramic vistas – it’s truly a hidden gem for photographers and nature lovers.
While Mardi Himal isn’t as high as Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, altitude sickness can still occur, especially around High Camp or Base Camp. That said, the risk is relatively low if you ascend gradually, drink lots of water, and rest when needed. Most itineraries are designed to help you acclimatize naturally.
Layered clothing is key! You’ll want:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- A warm fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants
- Comfortable trekking boots
- Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Water purification tablets or filter
If you’re booking with a porter, you’ll only need to carry your daypack during the trek.
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