Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is an 8-day Himalayan journey from Kathmandu into Nepal’s Annapurna Region. The trek combines forest trails, remote mountain lodges, open ridgelines and close views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Mardi Himal.

Starting with an overland journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the trekking route begins at Kande. The trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forests before reaching Forest Camp and the open ridge above High Camp.

The main objective is Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at approximately 4,500 metres. The high-altitude trail provides increasingly close views of Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail Mountain, and the surrounding Annapurna peaks.

After exploring the upper viewpoint or base camp, the route descends through High Camp to Siding Village. A road transfer returns trekkers to Pokhara before the journey continues to Kathmandu.

This itinerary is suitable for active travelers seeking a short Nepal trek with dramatic mountain scenery and fewer days of walking than longer routes such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty

Mardi Himal is a challenging trek. Expect five to seven hours of walking a day on steep, uneven trails. The base camp day is the hardest, at seven to nine hours with an early start. No climbing skills are needed, but you should be fit. Four to six weeks of hiking, stair climbing or cardio training will help.

If snow, weather or altitude makes the full route unsafe, your guide may turn around at the Upper Viewpoint, which still offers some of the best views on the trek.

Regular walking, stair climbing, cardiovascular exercise and day hikes are recommended for at least four to six weeks before departure.

Best Time to Trek

Autumn (September–November) brings the clearest skies and steadiest weather. Spring (March–May) is the season for rhododendron blooms. Winter is possible, but snow can close the ridge above High Camp, and the monsoon brings rain, leeches and cloud.

Accommodation and Meals

You’ll stay in hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and in simple teahouses on the trail. Rooms are basic twin-bed rooms with shared bathrooms. Hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging usually cost extra. Teahouses serve dal bhat, noodles, soups, eggs and Tibetan bread, and the menu gets shorter as you climb.

Permits and Guide

You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. Mardi Himal also requires a licensed trekking guide. Himalera arranges all permits before departure.

Is It Right for You?

This trek is a good fit if you’re fit, short on time and want big Himalayan views without a long expedition. It suits first-time trekkers who are ready for steep trails, basic lodges and real altitude. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation is essential.