Destination
Annapurna Region
Duration
9 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Moderate
Max Altitude
4,500 meters / 14,764 feet
Group Size
1 to 14
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Accommodation
Hotel, Tea-house
Meals
Nepali and Continental
Transportation
Private Vehicle

Trip Overview

The Mardi Himal trek is one of the newest and most scenic treks in Nepal, officially opened in 2012. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a less crowded and shorter experience. Located in the Annapurna region, east of the Annapurna Base Camp trek, it offers stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.

Journey Begins: Kathmandu to Pokhara

The adventure begins in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, which is home to several major UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Pashupatinath, Bouddhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. First, ensure you have all the essentials, trekking gear, and permits, including the TIMS card. You can travel to Pokhara by either road or flight, enjoying beautiful natural scenery along the way.

The Trekking Route

The trekking route is moderate and filled with adventure and fun. The trek officially starts with a drive from Pokhara to Kande. From there, you will trek to Pritam Deurali. The trail passes through charming Gurung villages such as Deurali and Badal Dadha, as well as high and low camps. As you progress, you’ll walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests, surrounded by peaceful scenery with minimal human settlement. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the vegetation begins to thin, providing a chance to spot various Himalayan birds. The trek becomes more strenuous as you approach High Camp, but the spectacular view of Machapuchhare makes it worthwhile. An early morning hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp rewards trekkers with breathtaking sunrise views and panoramic vistas of the Annapurna range. After enjoying the views, you will descend through the villages and then drive back to Pokhara.

Highlights of the Trek

The trek offers panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and the sacred Machapuchare. Especially in spring, the rhododendron forests are a beautiful sight. Witnessing the sunrise or sunset at Mardi Himal Base Camp presents a breathtaking display of glowing skies over snowy peaks. The trek is peaceful and provides an authentic experience, allowing for interaction with the Gurung and Magar communities, which helps deepen your understanding of their culture. You’ll also have the chance to try local food.

Why Choose the Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, blending natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. It is less commercialized and untouched by mass tourism, offering a peaceful experience. While relatively short, the trek provides the opportunity for a high-altitude adventure within just 9 days. It’s also perfect for photography, featuring stunning rhododendron forests, dramatic landscapes, and cloud-swirled mountains that create incredible visuals.

"Ready to experience the magic of Mardi Himal? Contact us today to plan your perfect trek!"

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu
Day 2: Drive to Pokhara 
Day 3: Drive and Trek to Pittam Deurali (2,100m / 6,890ft)
Day 4: Trek to Badal Danda (3,210m/11,528ft.)
Day 5: Trek to High Camp (3,600m/11,810ft.) and Acclimatization
Day 6: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp
Day 7: Trek to Sidhing and Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,624ft.)
Day 8: Drive back Kathmandu/ Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 9: Departure

Day-by-day itinerary

Expand All

Mardi himal - Kathmandu
Kathmandu / Mardi Himal Trek

Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist you in transferring to your hotel. In the evening, you can meet with your guide to discuss the trek. Depending on your arrival time, feel free to explore Thamel, visit Durbar Square, or indulge in authentic Nepali cuisine.

Mardi Himal Trek
Pokhara / Mardi Himal Trek

After breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara through scenic hills, rivers, and beautiful countryside. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Mardi Himal Trekking ....
Kande / Mardi Himal Trek

After breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara, you will drive to Kande, which takes around 2 hours. Upon reaching Kande, your trekking adventure begins with a gentle climb through forests and traditional Gurung villages. You will have the opportunity to admire the stunning views of terraced farmlands and the panoramic vista of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Pittam Deurali is primarily a resting point with excellent sunset views. Overnight stay in a teahouse/lodge

Mardi-himal-trek
Trek to Badal Danda

In the morning, you will trek from Pittam Deurali to Badal Danda, gaining an altitude of about 1,110 meters. The ascent takes you through dense rhododendron and oak forests, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. Badal Danda means “hill above the cloud,” providing a floating sensation as clouds swirl below. The trek lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, and you will stay overnight in a teahouse in Badal Danda.

Mardi Himal Trek
On the way to High Camp

After breakfast, you will set out on your journey toward the Mardi Himal trek. This trek takes about 2 to 3 hours. While the distance is relatively short, the altitude gain of about 390 meters (1,280 feet) can make it challenging. You will have light hiking for acclimatization around High Camp to help prevent altitude sickness before ascending to the base camp. Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and keep an eye out for Himalayan monals, yaks, and blue sheep.

Mardi-himal-trek
Mardi Himal Base Camp

Early in the morning, you will hike from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp, a journey that takes approximately 7 to 8 hours (4 hours ascending, 3–4 hours descending). Aim to start early to catch the sunrise at the base camp. The trail to the base camp is narrow and exposed but offers jaw-dropping views. At the base camp, you will be at an altitude of 4,500 meters, enjoying close-up views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchhre. After spending some time at the base camp, you will descend to Low Camp.

Mardi himal trek
Back to Sidhing / Mardi Himal Trek

From Low Camp, you will trek down to Sidhing, which takes about 3 hours. This path is less crowded and more peaceful compared to other trekking routes, and you will descend through dense forest and rural areas. Sidhing is a charming village that offers a glimpse into daily Nepali life. After spending some time there, you will drive back to Pokhara, where you will spend the night in a hotel. You can relax, visit nearby attractions, or go shopping if you wish

Mardi-himal-trek
Celebrating a Successful Trip with a Farewell and Certificates

After breakfast, we drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Enjoy scenic views of the hills, rivers, and countryside along the way. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and rest.

Mardi-himal-trek
Before Airport Departure

Your journey concludes where it began. After checking out of the hotel, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport based on your flight departure time. Port based on your flight time.

Flexible Adventure Planning

Customize Your Dream Trip

Modify itinerary, accommodation, transportation, or activities according to your travel style and schedule.

Additional Information

Trek Duration and Difficulty

The Mardi Himal trek typically takes around 9 days, depending on the itinerary. It is considered to have a moderate difficulty level, making it suitable for beginners with good physical fitness as well as experienced trekkers. The trail is well-marked but includes steep sections and narrow ridgelines. The gradual altitude gain helps reduce the risk of acute mountain sickness.

What's included

Included
  • Airport Transfers (Pick-up & Drop-off)
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara Transport (Tourist Sofa Bus)
  • Accommodation (Teahouses/Lodges during the trek)
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the trek)
  • Trekking Permits (ACAP & TIMS)
  • Professional Guide & Porter (Guide with First Aid Kit)
  • Necessary Trekking Equipment (Sleeping Bag & Down Jacket on rent)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Fees
  • Emergency Support (Basic First Aid)
Not Included
  • International Flights (To/From Nepal)
  • Nepal Visa Fees
  • Travel Insurance (Mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
  • Personal Expenses (Snacks, drinks, hot showers, WiFi, battery charging)
  • Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (Except breakfast at hotels)
  • Trekking Gear (Personal clothing, boots, trekking poles, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide & Porter (Customary but not mandatory)
  • Emergency Evacuation & Helicopter Rescue (If required)
  • Extra Accommodation Costs (Due to delays, weather, or personal reasons)

Equipment Checklist

Essential gear for comfort, warmth, and safe trekking at altitude.

Clothing

  • Warm jacket (down or fleece)
  • Trekking shirts (2-3, lightweight & quick-dry)
  • Trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
  • Thermal inner layers (top & bottom)
  • Wool or fleece sweater (for warmth)
  • Warm hat, sun hat & buff/scarf
  • Gloves (light & warm)

Footwear

  • Strong trekking boots (waterproof & comfortable)
  • Warm socks (4-5 pairs)
  • Camp shoes/slippers (for evening)

Bags

  • Backpack (50-60L) if carrying your own gear
  • Small daypack (20-30L) for daily use
  • Duffel bag (if hiring a porter)

Sleeping Bags

  • Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C rating)
  • Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth)

Trekking Essential

  • Trekking poles (for balance & knee support)
  • Headlamp (with extra batteries)
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
  • Water bottles (1L x 2) or hydration pack
  • Water purification tablets/filter
  • Towel, wet wipes & hand sanitizer
  • Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 40+)
  • Toilet paper

First Aid and Medicine

  • Personal medicines
  • Altitude sickness pills (Diamox, if needed)
  • Painkillers & anti-diarrhea tablets
  • Blister plasters & antiseptic cream
  • Electrolyte powders

Others Items

  • Camera/phone & power bank
  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)
  • Cash (NPR, as ATMs are rare)
  • Small lock (for bags)

Documents

  • Passport & trekking permits (TIMS & Annapurna Permit)
  • Travel insurance (covering trekking)

Traveller Reviews

Verified guest feedback collected from Tripadvisor and Google Reviews.

Review from
Escape
India Oct 09, 2026

Amazing Mardi Himal Trek with Trek Curator!

We had an amazing experience trekking to Mardi Himal with Trek. Nepal is a beautiful and safe destination, and everything was well organized from start to finish.

Our guide, Pradip, was friendly, helpful, and very professional throughout the trek. TN managed our entire trip and made sure everything went smoothly. He was also very kind, responsive, and supportive.

Thank you, Trek Curator Pradip and TN, for making our Mardi Himal Trek such a wonderful and memorable experience. Highly recommended!

Review from
Pooja Princess
India Oct 09, 2026

An Unforgettable Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal

We are six friends from India who decided to visit Nepal, and we chose Trek Curator to organize our trip. We contacted them for the Mardi Himal Trek and planned our journey accordingly. We arrived in Nepal on September 25 during heavy rainfall, but we still decided to go ahead with our trek.

Our guide, Pradip, was excellent. He guided and supported us throughout the trek and took very good care of our group. TN Bhatta handled all the arrangements, and we sincerely thank him for organizing everything so well.

The Mardi Himal Trek was a wonderful and memorable experience for all of us. The mountain views were beautiful, and we truly enjoyed every moment of the journey.

Even though some areas of Nepal were affected by heavy rain and flooding, many trekking destinations were still open and accessible. If you are planning a trek in Nepal, we highly recommend getting in touch with Trek Curator and planning your journey with their team.

Thank you, Trek Curator, for making our Nepal trip so special!