Mardi Himal Trek

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Trip Facts

  • Duration 9 Days
  • Trip Difficulty moderate
  • Max. Altitude 4490m
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time All seasons
  • Accommodation Teahouse

Mardi Himal Trekking is a great way to enjoy your Himalayan walks within serene and off the beaten tracks away from main trekking trails, a different from other popular Annapurna areas on this trek where you encounter less number of trekkers within its beautiful surroundings.

Mardi Himal is an amazing place and scenic destination around Annapurna Himalaya, where early explorers and pioneers christened the area as ‘The Other Sanctuary’ where the first one was located within Annapurna base camp.

An adventure that takes you around the hidden region on high ridges facing marvelous views of the mountain range of Annapurna Himalaya with Manaslu as well Dhaulagiri peak includes towering majestic Machhapuchare Himal the famous ‘Fish Tail’.

Trek to Mardi Himal takes you at the very bottom of Mardi Himal above 4,490 m / 14,817 ft high, whereas Mardi a small mountain at 5,587 m which is a broken south ridge flank of Machhapuchare Himal offer a glorious panorama of the mountain range.

Mardi Himal treks start from famous touristic city Pokhara with a short drive to reach high scenic hills of Dhampus and its large Gurung village adorned with Buddhism religion and culture, from Dhampus enjoy the panorama of the mountain range.

From here on the high trail then leaving the main villages and away from popular trekking trails heading into complete and pure wilderness within dense beautiful woods covered by tall rhododendron and pine trees.

As the walk progresses on steep up soon leaving the tree lines on entering into a wide-open valley beyond the ridgeline at Mardi Himal base camp where amazing views of mountains surround you leaving you breathless.

After a great scenic moment return journey downhill on the same trail for some time and back into the deep forest as long descend takes you to low warm farm villages for the short exciting drive back to Pokhara by its serene Phewa lake on ending our wonderful Mardi Himal Trekking.

Best Season for Mardi Himal Trek

March to May and September to November months of the year, March to May when most days are clear for views of mountains and pleasant walks with longer sunlight hours due to spring season when wildflowers especially rhododendron and magnolia in bloom.

The next best months are October to December although cold in the morning and nighttime with freezing temperatures around higher hills, but with the fine clear day but sunlight hours due to autumn/fall and pre-winter season.

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

    Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Kathmandu, at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters, is the capital city of Nepal and the starting point of your Mardi Himal adventure.
    After checking into the hotel, you can rest and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the surrounding area or visit some of Kathmandu's cultural attractions.
    In the evening, your trekking guide will provide a detailed briefing about the Mardi Himal Trek, including the route, daily walking schedule, trail conditions, weather, altitude, and important trekking preparations.

    Altitude: 1400m
    Meals: BB
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (820 m) | 6–8 Hours

    After breakfast, begin the scenic drive from Kathmandu at 1,400 meters to Pokhara at approximately 820 meters.
    The journey passes through the beautiful countryside of central Nepal, following winding mountain roads alongside rivers and green hills. You will pass through traditional villages, terraced farmland, forests, and several settlements along the Prithvi Highway.
    The route provides beautiful views of the Trishuli River and surrounding hills. After approximately 6–8 hours, you will reach Pokhara.
    Pokhara, situated at an elevation of approximately 820 meters, is one of Nepal's most popular tourist destinations and the main gateway to the Annapurna region. After arriving, check into your hotel and spend the remaining time relaxing or exploring the Lakeside area.

    Altitude: 820 M
    Meals: BB
    Accommodation: Hotel
  • Day 3: Drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Dhampus (1,650 m) and Trek to Forest Camp (2,520 m) via Pritam Deurali (2,100 m) | 5–6 Hours Trek

    After breakfast, drive from Pokhara at 820 meters to Dhampus at approximately 1,650 meters. The drive takes around 1–1.5 hours.
    Dhampus is a beautiful traditional Gurung village with impressive views of the surrounding hills and Himalayan peaks. From Dhampus, begin your trek through villages, terraced fields and forested trails.
    The trail gradually climbs toward Pritam Deurali at approximately 2,100 meters. From here, continue through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests toward Forest Camp.
    The trail becomes increasingly peaceful as you move away from the villages. The forest provides shade and beautiful natural scenery, while occasional openings provide views of the surrounding mountains.
    After approximately 5–6 hours of trekking, reach Forest Camp at around 2,520 meters.

    Altitude: 2520m
    Meals: B, L, D
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Day 4: Trek from Forest Camp (2,520 m) to Low Camp (3,150 m) | 5–6 Hours

    After breakfast, continue your trek from Forest Camp at 2,520 meters toward Low Camp at approximately 3,150 meters.
    The trail gradually climbs through dense rhododendron, oak and maple forests. This section is particularly beautiful during the rhododendron flowering season.
    As you gain altitude, the forest gradually becomes thinner and the trail begins to open toward the mountain ridges. You will start to experience impressive views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
    The trail continues along the ridge with several gradual uphill sections. After approximately 5–6 hours of trekking, reach Low Camp at 3,150 meters.
    From Low Camp, the surrounding mountain views become increasingly impressive, providing an excellent introduction to the higher sections of the Mardi Himal route.

    Altitude: 3150m
    Meals: B, L, D
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Day 5: Trek from Low Camp (3,150 m) to High Camp (3,580 m) | 4–5 Hours

    After breakfast, continue from Low Camp at 3,150 meters toward High Camp at approximately 3,580 meters.
    The trail gradually leaves the dense forest and enters more open alpine terrain. As you climb along the ridge, the views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks become increasingly spectacular.
    The trail provides excellent views of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m) and other surrounding peaks.
    Although today's distance is relatively short, the increasing altitude makes the trek moderately challenging. Walk slowly and maintain a comfortable pace.
    After approximately 4–5 hours, reach High Camp at 3,580 meters. From here, the mountain panorama becomes even more impressive.
    The remainder of the day can be spent resting and preparing for the early-morning hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

    Altitude: 3580
    Meals: B, L, D
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Day 6: Early Morning Hike from High Camp (3,580 m) to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) and Descend to Sidding (1,750 m) | 7–9 Hours

    Today is the highlight and most challenging day of the Mardi Himal Trek.
    Start early in the morning from High Camp at 3,580 meters and begin the hike toward Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500 meters.
    The trail follows the mountain ridge and gradually climbs through rugged alpine terrain. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly open, providing spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
    Continue toward Mardi Himal Base Camp, with magnificent views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
    After approximately 3–4 hours of hiking, reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp area at approximately 4,500 meters. Spend some time enjoying the spectacular Himalayan panorama before beginning the descent.
    Descend from Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters toward High Camp and continue downward through the alpine landscape. The trail then enters the forested area and continues toward Sidding.
    After a long descent, reach Sidding at approximately 1,750 meters.
    The complete trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and then down to Sidding takes approximately 7–9 hours, making this the longest and most physically demanding day of the trek.

    Altitude: 4500m
    Meals: B, L, D
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Day 7: Drive from Sidding (1,750 m) to Pokhara (820 m) | 3–4 Hours

    After breakfast, begin the drive from Sidding at approximately 1,750 meters to Pokhara at approximately 820 meters.
    The road passes through mountain villages, terraced farmland and forested hills before gradually descending toward the lower valleys.
    The journey takes approximately 3–4 hours, depending on road conditions.
    After arriving in Pokhara, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing. You may explore the Lakeside area, walk around Phewa Lake or enjoy the city's restaurants and cafés.

    Altitude: 820m
    Meals: B, L, D
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Day 8: Drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m) | 6–8 Hours

    After breakfast, begin the drive from Pokhara at 820 meters to Kathmandu at approximately 1,400 meters.
    The journey follows the scenic highway through the middle hills of Nepal. You will pass through traditional villages, terraced farmland, forests, and river valleys.
    The drive generally takes approximately 6–8 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way.
    After reaching Kathmandu at approximately 1,400 meters, transfer to your hotel and spend the remaining time relaxing or exploring the city.

    Altitude: 1400m
    Meals: BB
    Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge
  • Day 9: Final Departure from Kathmandu (1,400 m)

    Your Mardi Himal Trek officially concludes today.
    Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred from your hotel in Kathmandu at approximately 1,400 meters to Tribhuvan International Airport.
    The airport transfer generally takes approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic and the location of your hotel.
    You will then proceed with your international departure, carrying memorable experiences of the Mardi Himal, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre mountain ranges.

    Altitude: 1400 M

What's included

  • Pick-up and drop off from/ to tourist bus park.
  • 3 Star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • 3 Star hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
  • Clean Teahouse/ lodge accommodations during the treks.
  • Meals while on the treks (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide.
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by tourist bus.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area project permit.
  • Shared jeep transportation from Pokhara to Dhampus.
  • Complimentary farewell dinner.
  • Trip completion certificate.
  • First aid kit.
  • All taxes and service charges.

What's not included

  •  Meals in Kathmandu.
  • Supporting staff (2 trekkers-1 supporting staff with a maximum load of 20 kgs).
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, wi fi, shower, hot water, sweets, snacks, tips, etc.
  • All bar and beverage bills.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear.
  • Any expenses of personal nature.
  • Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances that is beyond our control.
  • Tips for guide, driver and supporting staff.
  • Early return from the trip or breaking up the journey due to personal/medical reasons: clients have to bear extra expenses in Kathmandu or en route with related expenses, as there will be no refund from the company in such a situation.

Equipment

Equipment & Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek

Clothing

  • Waterproof trekking jacket
  • Down jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Thermal innerwear
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts
  • Trekking trousers
  • Waterproof/windproof trousers
  • Warm sweater or fleece
  • Lightweight trekking shorts
  • Underwear
  • Warm socks
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Warm woolen hat
  • Sun hat/cap

Footwear

  • Comfortable trekking boots with good ankle support
  • Lightweight trekking shoes or sandals
  • Extra trekking socks
  • Gaiters, especially during snow or wet conditions

Trekking Equipment

  • Backpack (30–40 liters)
  • Duffel bag for personal belongings
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottle or hydration bladder
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Small daypack
  • Dry bags or waterproof packing bags

Personal Items

  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Lip balm with sun protection
  • Personal toiletries
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes and tissues
  • Toilet paper
  • Small personal mirror
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

First Aid & Medicines

  • Personal prescription medicines
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Bandages and blister treatment
  • Pain-relief medicine
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Elastic bandage
  • Basic cold and stomach medicines
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Altitude-sickness medication, if advised by a qualified medical professional

Electronics

  • Mobile phone
  • Camera
  • Power bank
  • Charging cables
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Spare camera batteries
  • Headphone/earphones

Documents & Money

  • Passport
  • Copies of passport
  • Trekking permits
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Emergency contact information
  • Cash in Nepalese rupees
  • Small wallet or money pouch

Recommended Extras

  • Trekking towel
  • Energy bars and snacks
  • Water purification tablets or portable filter
  • Thermos flask
  • Lightweight travel lock
  • Binoculars
  • Small sewing/repair kit
  • Earplugs
  • Travel pillow
  • Notebook and pen

 

Map

Mardi Himal Trekking Route Map

FAQs of Mardi Himal Trek

  • 1. Where is the Mardi Himal Trek located?

    Mardi Himal Trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, north of Pokhara. The route passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional mountain villages, alpine landscapes and the scenic ridge beneath Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
  • 2. How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

    The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It does not require technical climbing skills, but trekkers should be prepared for several hours of walking each day, steep uphill and downhill sections, uneven trails and higher-altitude trekking.
  • 3. What is the highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek?

    The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, approximately 4,500 meters above sea level. The highest overnight stop is generally High Camp at around 3,580 meters.
  • 4. How many days are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?

    The trekking portion can generally be completed in 5–7 days, depending on the starting and ending points and the pace of the group. Including travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara, a complete program can be arranged as a 9-day Mardi Himal Trek, as in our itinerary.
  • 5. Is Mardi Himal Trek suitable for beginners?

    Yes. Beginners with good physical fitness can complete the Mardi Himal Trek without previous high-altitude trekking experience. Regular walking, hiking and cardiovascular exercise before the trek are recommended.
  • 6. What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek?

    The best seasons are generally spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods usually provide clearer mountain views, more stable weather and favorable trekking conditions. Spring is also particularly beautiful because of the blooming rhododendron forests.
  • 7. What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?

    Trekkers generally need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for the Mardi Himal route. Depending on current regulations, a TIMS card may also be required. Permit requirements can change, so they should be confirmed before departure.
  • 8. Do I need a guide for the Mardi Himal Trek?

    A guide is strongly recommended for safety, navigation, local knowledge and assistance with accommodation and logistics. Regulations regarding mandatory guides can change, so the latest requirements should be confirmed before starting the trek.
  • 9. What kind of accommodation is available during the Mardi Himal Trek?

    Accommodation is mainly provided in local tea houses and trekking lodges. Rooms are generally simple and comfortable, with basic facilities. Accommodation becomes more basic at higher elevations, particularly around High Camp.
  • 10. What food is available during the trek?

    Tea houses provide a variety of common trekking meals, including dal bhat, noodles, pasta, rice, potatoes, soups, eggs, bread, and other local and international dishes. Vegetarian meals are widely available along the route.
  • 11. How many hours do I walk each day?

    Most trekking days involve approximately 4–6 hours of walking. The longest and most demanding day in our itinerary is the hike from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and down to Sidding, which takes approximately 7–9 hours.
  • 12. Do I need to worry about altitude sickness on the Mardi Himal Trek?

    Altitude sickness is possible because the trek reaches approximately 4,500 meters. Trekkers should maintain a slow and steady pace, stay properly hydrated, and allow their bodies to adjust to increasing altitude. Any symptoms of altitude sickness should be reported to the guide immediately.
  • 13. What should I pack for the Mardi Himal Trek?

    Essential items include good trekking shoes, warm and waterproof clothing, thermal layers, fleece jacket, gloves, warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, headlamp, personal medicines, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, and a small daypack.
  • 14. Is Wi-Fi and mobile network available during the Mardi Himal Trek?

    Mobile network and Wi-Fi availability varies along the route. Connectivity can be available in some villages and lodges but may be limited or unreliable at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank is recommended.
  • 15. What mountains can I see during the Mardi Himal Trek?

    The trek offers spectacular views of several Himalayan peaks, including Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The ridge section above High Camp provides some of the most impressive mountain panoramas of the trek.
  • 16. Can I do the Mardi Himal Trek without a porter?

    Yes. A porter is optional, but hiring one can make the trek more comfortable by carrying your main luggage. You can carry only a small daypack with essential items during the daily walks.
  • 17. What makes the Mardi Himal Trek special?

    Mardi Himal combines spectacular Himalayan views, peaceful trails, rhododendron forests, traditional villages and high-altitude ridge walking in a relatively short trekking program. The close views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range from the upper ridge are among its biggest attractions.

What Other Travellers' Say

smooth and exellent

I used twice service of All nepal Excursion and everytime everything was going smooth and exellent. Office in comfortable location, easy to reach.

They Can arrange all what you need. Good car/van/Bus, trustful drivers, hotels, permits and etc.

Thank for team. 🙏

Yulia Yurkova
5

Excellent

lovely experience

starstarstarstarstar 2 Nov 2020
We had lovely experience with & we want to do again & again. Special thanks for Mr Dependra Thapa ji who supported & guided well.

Kishor Khadka
5

Excellent

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