Mardi Himal Trek In 7 Days Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, just a short distance from Pokhara. This 7-day trek is known for its stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal. It takes you through dense forests to traditional villages, picturesque nature, and unique culture. Throughout this trek, one can also encounter friendly locals from the Gurung and Magar communities and get closer to their different traditional perspectives and lifestyles. Not as popular as the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it offers a quieter and less crowded route in the Annapurna region.

It is suitable for beginners as the trails are not too steep, although some sections can be challenging. You will see beautiful panoramic mountain vistas and pass through some pretty small villages like Dhampus, Deurali, and Low Camp. The best time to trek is in spring or fall when weather conditions are clear and most favorable for sights. You can drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Dhampus to reach the starting point.

If you want a memorable trekking experience, the Mardi Himal Trek is a great choice. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker, this trek offers something special for everyone. You can venture on this adventure and book the 7-day Mardi Himal Trek with us. We look forward to providing you with an adventurous, organized, safe, and enjoyable trip as per your choice.

Duration
7 Days

Per Person From
~~$799~~$699

Annapurna Region Region

Nepal Destination

Treks in Nepal Activity

4500m Max. Altitude

40 Group Size

Medium Grade

Highlights Of 7 Days Mardi Himal Trek

Stunning views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli peaks.
Less crowded routes offer a serene trekking experience compared to other Annapurna treks.
Trek through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and diverse flora and fauna.
Reach the base camp at 4,500m for panoramic mountain vistas.
Experience Gurung and Magar villages, their hospitality, and local traditions.
Comfortable accommodations and hearty meals in traditional mountain teahouses.
A short drive from Pokhara and moderate difficulty make it ideal for beginners and seasoned trekkers.

7 Days Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Today, we will start our 7 day adventure. We will begin our journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The 200 km drive will take about 6 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. We will pass vibrant towns like Naubise, Malekhu (famous for its fish), Mugling, and Dumre. The road winds through terraced farmlands, dense green hills, and along the Trishuli River.

We will stop for lunch at a highway restaurant, likely in Mugling or another convenient spot. The drive includes smooth stretches and bumpy patches, making it slightly tiring. As we approach Pokhara, the majestic peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre will start to appear. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening near Phewa Lake.

Trek Time:

6–7 Hours Drive

Distance:

200km

Altitude:

820 m

Accommodations:

Hotel in Pokhara

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

On day 2, we will begin the day with a short, one-hour drive from Pokhara to Dhampus, covering approximately 20 km. The drive passes through quiet villages like Phedi and Naudanda, with glimpses of the Annapurna range. At Dhampus, we will begin our trek, ascending through stone-paved paths surrounded by terraced fields.

The trek from Dhampus to Deurali is about 9 km and takes 2.5 to 3 hours. We will pass through Pothana, a small village where we can stop for lunch. The trail combines gentle inclines and steeper sections, with some forested stretches providing shade. As we reach Deurali, the views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre become even more breathtaking. We will spend the night in a cozy teahouse

Trek Time:

1 Hour (Drive), 3-4 Hours (Trek)

Distance:

20 km Drive, 9 km Trek

Altitude:

2,100m

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will start our trek toward Forest Camp, covering a distance of about 10 km in 5 to 6 hours. The trail leaves behind the villages and enters a dense forest of rhododendron, oak, and maple trees. This road is serene and very silent, and you can hear the songs of birds or other wildlife.

The trail is mostly uphill, with gradual inclines and a few steep sections that require careful footing. As we approach Forest Camp, the vegetation becomes thicker, and the air cooler. Forest Camp is a remote area with only a few tea houses, offering a quiet environment at night.

Trek Time:

5-6 Hours Trek

Distance:

10 km

Altitude:

2,600m

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today, we will trek about 7 km over 6 to 7 hours as we ascend from Forest Camp to High Camp. The trail initially winds through forests but gradually opens up to stunning views of Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal. We will pass through Low Camp, where we can take a short break and enjoy the mountain vistas.

Lunch will be at Low Camp, which offers a few teahouses with basic facilities. After Low Camp, the trail becomes steeper and narrower, requiring extra caution. The air gets thinner as we gain altitude, but the incredible scenery motivates us. High Camp offers a panoramic view of the Annapurna range, and we will settle into a teahouse for the night.

Trek Time:

6 to 7 hours Trek

Distance:

7 km

Altitude:

3,600m

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Leaving High Camp, we will begin the day early to make the most of the clear morning skies. The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek covers about 6 km and takes 3 to 4 hours, with steep and rocky trails. The climb is challenging, but the reward is unparalleled views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.

After spending time at Base Camp, we will retrace our steps to High Camp for lunch. From there, we will descend to Low Camp, which is about 6 km away and takes 2 to 3 hours. The descent is easier but still requires steady footing on the rocky paths. At Low Camp, we will rest in a teahouse surrounded by lush greenery.

Trek Time:

3-4 Hours trek to Mardi Base Camp, 2-3 Hours Trek to Low Camp

Distance:

6 km to Base Camp, 6 km to Low Camp

Altitude:

4,450m (Base Camp), 2,970m (Low Camp)

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s trek is mostly downhill, covering about 8 km in 5 to 6 hours. We will pass through many charming Gurung and Magar Villages where you pass through places such as Forest camp, Landruk, etc. The day’s trail offers insights into traditional Gurung culture. The trail winds through terraced fields and forests, with occasional river crossings on suspension bridges.

We will stop for lunch at Siding, a quiet village with a few small eateries. From there, the path becomes steeper as we descend toward Jhinu Danda. At Jhinu Danda, we can relax in the natural hot springs, located a short walk from the village.

Trek Time:

5 to 6 hours

Distance:

8 km

Altitude:

1,780m

Accommodations:

Teahouse

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our final trekking day begins with a descent to Siwa or Ghandruk Phedi, covering about 5 km in 2 to 3 hours. The trail passes through villages like Landruk and terraced farmlands. Today’s trek offers one last look at the Annapurna region’s beauty. We will cross suspension bridges and follow the Modi Khola River as we approach the road ahead.

From Siwa or Ghandruk Phedi, we will drive back to Pokhara via Nayapul, a journey of about 50 km that takes around 2 hours. The drive offers scenic views of rivers and hills, bringing us back to the bustling lakeside town of Pokhara. Upon reaching Pokhara, we will part ways and say a final goodbye to each other. Hope to see you soon for your other trip to Nepal. Namaste.

Trek Time:

2-3 Hours Trek to Phedi, 2 Hour Drive to Pokhara

Distance:

5 km to (Jhinu Danda-Phedi) & 50 km to (Phedi-Pokhara)

Altitude:

820m

Accommodations:

Hotel in Pokhara

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch

What's Included In Mardi Himal Package?

Vehicles pick up and drop off at international and domestic airports.
A highly experienced government-licensed guide and porter.
Bus Tickets.
Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and medication for all the staff.
All Administrative expenses and government taxes.
All trekking permits required for the trip.
Assistance for emergency Rescue.
A participation Certificate.
Farewell dinner after the trip

What's Excluded in Mardi Himal Package?

International flight tickets.
Nepali entry visa fee.
All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and extra accommodation in Kathmandu due to early return from the trek, early arrival, or late departure.
Personal expenses. (hot shower, wifi, battery charge, cold drinks, alcohol, extra porters, shopping snacks, personal clothing & gear)
Travel insurance.
Tips for guides and porters.
Excess Baggage Charges.

Mardi Himal Trek Gallery

Can a beginner Trek to Mardi Himal?

Yes, a beginner can do the Mardi Himal Trek. However, make sure you are physically fit to overcome some challenges you may encounter. This adventure is relatively short and can be completed within a week. Also, the route is well marked and managed, offering you gradual ascends and moderate elevation gain. The highest point you will reach in this adventure is 4,500 meters. This means you will have a lower risk of altitude sickness compared to other treks.

A Trekker at Mardi Himal Trek

Offering you a straightforward and stress-free adventure, this trek will also offer some of the best and most comfortable teahouses with quite a few better facilities. Your journey will start from Pokhara. Throughout the trek, you will walk through stunning rhododendron forests, picturesque villages, and terraced fields. With plenty of tea houses offering food, shelter, and a welcoming atmosphere, you will have everything you need to rest and recharge after each day’s trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Route

Our Mardi Himal Adventure begins early in the morning from Kathmandu. We will take a ride at 6 am towards Pokhara. The ride is bumpy and off-road in some sections. As an alternative, we can also take a flight to Pokhara ( Based on your wish). Upon reaching Pokhara, we will head to Dhampus on a jeep. From there, our real trekking adventure begins. Our first stop is Deurali, which we will reach by passing through the beautiful rhododendron forests. Moving forward, we will reach Forest Camp.

As we continue, we will pass through Low Camp, where we will get our first stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Climbing higher, we will arrive at High Camp, where the trail becomes steeper and more rugged. This section between High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp is the most challenging, with narrow ridges and rocky paths. However, it will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.

After that, we will begin our descending journey. We will take an alternate route, passing through Jhinu Danda and Siwa, where we can experience local Gurung culture and hospitality. Finally, we will drive to Pokhara via Nayapul and end our adventure there. Our 7-day Mardi Himal Trek offers the best com combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and a manageable trekking route.

Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization at Mardi Trek

Although the chance of getting altitude sickness is comparatively low compared to other popular treks in Nepal, such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, you might also be affected by it. Altitude sickness occurs due to high-altitude encounters, crossing over 3,000 meters. You might feel short of breath during your trekking adventure. Other symptoms include headache, dizziness, and vomiting. This can sometimes be life-threatening if not treated in time. Make sure you are well aware of altitude sickness.

Here are some tips you can follow to protect yourself from altitude sickness:

Ascend gradually and listen to your body.
Drink plenty of water, about 3 to 4 liters
Avoid having caffeine and alcohol on the journey.
Practice some breathing techniques prior to your journey.
Have a healthy diet and carry some snacks with you.
Learn about the symptoms and preventive measures prior to your trek.
If the situation gets worse, make sure you descend immediately.

Temperature through the months during Mardi Himal Trek

Give a Call to Our Expert

Can I complete Mardi Himal in 3 Days?

Is Mardi Himal Trek safe?

Is Mardi Himal for beginners?

Yes, Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most beginner-friendly trekking adventures in Nepal. Taking you to the beautiful Annapurna Region of Nepal, the trek is well-marked and has significant elevation gains. As a beginner with a good fitness level, you can easily conquer this adventure. However, make sure you are well-planned and prepared for it.

Can you trek Mardi Himal without a guide?

Yes, taking a guide with you for the Mardi Himal Trek is not mandatory, but it is generally recommended, especially if you are a beginner. The guide will help you in navigation and will also provide help during emergencies. Furthermore, traveling with them means you can fully enjoy the trek as they will provide detailed information about the places you will be passing by.

Is Mardi Himal safe?

How hot is High Camp Mardi Himal?

How do you go to Mardi Himal from Kathmandu?

Do I need travel insurance for Mardi Himal Trek?

Although travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. As you will be trekking to the Himalayas, a high-altitude region where the weather is cold and unpredictable, it is highly recommended that you get one. Travel insurance helps you cover unforeseen events like emergencies, medical expenses, baggage loss, flight delays, and more, giving you peace of mind.

Are there any internet facilities during the Mardi Himal Trek?

Is the drinking water safe?

Food and Accommodation at Mardi Himal

During our 7 days of Mardi Himal Trek, we will be staying for 6 nights. In major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, we will be staying at hotels, while in higher trekking altitudes, we will be staying in teahouses. Teahouses are the local people’s family-run hotels. They offer you basic facilities and comfortable stays, with most tea houses offering simple rooms with shared bathrooms.

They will provide basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and a pillow.

However, the major attraction of the trek is the communal dining space. They also offer you Wi-Fi services and hot water if you pay additional charges. As you ascend, the lodges may become more basic, but they will still provide a cozy place to rest after a day of trekking. If you book with us, we will look after all your accommodations, and you will be staying in the best teahouse in the area.

Teahouses or lodges offer food during the meals. Food along the trek is hearty and designed to fuel you for the day’s journey. Common dishes include dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and soups. As you climb higher, the menu options may become more limited, but you will still have a variety of familiar foods. The tea houses at lower elevations may have a wider selection, but the higher you go, the focus will shift to simple, nutritious meals to energize you.

Food Options

Breakfast

Porridge, Toast with jam or butter, Pancakes or chapati with honey, Eggs, Muesli with yogurt, Tibetan bread with butter and jam, Tea or coffee.

Lunch
Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), Vegetable curry with rice or bread, Noodles, Fried rice or momo (dumplings), Sandwiches, Soup, Tea or juice.

Dinner
Dal Bhat, Vegetable or chicken curry with rice, Momo, Pasta with tomato sauce or noodle stir fry, Pizza, Stews or soups, Tea or hot drinks.

Required Permits for 7 Days Mardi Himal Trek

You need two permits to complete the Mardi Himal Trek: an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Getting this permit is essential for you, as they are checked at many checkpoints. Make sure you carry them in your hand for ease. You can get these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board office or a trekking operator in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Permits are not received online.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): As the trekking trail passes within the conservation area, getting this permit is essential to make your entry. It costs NPR 3,000 per person for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.

Best Time take 7 Days Mardi Himal Trek

The best time for the Mardi Himal Short Trek is from March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn). These seasons offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and stable weather, making your trek more enjoyable and safe. In spring, you will also witness the beautiful blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, adding vibrant colors to landscapes. Similarly, in autumn, you will get a chance to witness the two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, enhancing your overall cultural experience.

Mount Machhapuchhre Seen during Mardi Himal Trek

Besides these two seasons, we generally do not recommend trekking during summer and winter. Summer brings monsoons together, meaning you will encounter heavy rainfall, making the trail slippery. As for winter, you will face heavy snowfall, making trails steep. Also, extremely low temperatures may not be favorable for every individual. However, you can also consider trekking during these seasons with proper preparations, as you will get lush greenery during summer and white snow-covered landscapes during winter.

Here is a table showing the best time for the Mardi Himal Trek, including daytime and nighttime temperatures for each season:

Season	Daytime Temperature	Nighttime Temperature
Spring (March to May)	10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)	-5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
Summer/Monsoon (June to August)	15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)	5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
Autumn (September to November)	10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)	-5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
Winter (December to February)	5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)	-10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F)

Things To Know During 7 Days Mardi Himal Trek

Baggage Limit

If you are trekking to Mardi Himal, you should generally be prepared with good packing essentials. As you will be trekking with us, we recommend you not to carry more than 15 kg, i.e., 10 kg in a backpack and 5 in a day bag. Your bag will be carried in a duffle bag by a porter along with another fellow bag. So, we generally recommend that you do not carry more than 15 kg in total. If your bag exceeds, you are required to pay some extra cost from $10 per kg.
Tipping

Tipping is a customary and appreciated gesture on the Mardi Himal Trek, as it acknowledges the hard work of your guides, porters, and other staff. While there are no strict rules, it is typical to tip your guide around $5 to $10 per day and your porter about $3 to $5 per day, depending on the length and difficulty of the trek. You can give tips to guide and porter individually or as a group, presenting them at the end of the trek in an envelope along with a thank-you note for their service.

Safety Tips

Take your time to adjust to the altitude by including acclimatization days and staying hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
Include essentials like pain relievers, bandages, antiseptic, and altitude sickness medication in your bag.
Drink plenty of water to stay energized and reduce the risk of altitude-related issues.
Bring layers, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.
Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost or encountering unsafe terrain.
Consider hiring a guide or porter for navigation, safety, and carrying your gear.
Check weather conditions regularly to avoid trekking in bad weather or foggy conditions.
Be cautious on steep or rocky sections, especially between High Camp and Base Camp.
Follow the guidance of locals and avoid damaging the environment or disturbing wildlife.
Carry a mobile phone or a satellite device for communication in case of emergencies.