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.
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.
Distance:
200 km (124.2 miles)
Altitude:
820 m (2,690 ft)
Accommodations:
Hotel (3-star)
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Pokhara
Drive Time:
6–7 hrs/day
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:
3–4 hrs/day
Distance:
29 km (18 miles)
Altitude:
2,100 m (6,889 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Deurali
Drive Time:
1 hrs/day
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 hrs/day
Distance:
10 km (6.2 miles)
Altitude:
2,600 m (8,530 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Forest Camp
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:
6–7 hrs/day
Distance:
7 km (4.3 miles)
Altitude:
3,600 m (11,811 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
High Camp
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:
5–7 hrs/day
Distance:
12 km (7.4 miles)
Altitude:
4,500 m (14,763 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Base Camp
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:
5–6 hrs/day
Distance:
8 km (4.9 miles)
Altitude:
1,780 m (5,839 ft)
Accommodations:
Lodge-to-Lodge
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B.L.D)
Place:
Jhinu Danda
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 hrs/day
Distance:
55 km (34.1 miles)
Altitude:
820 m (2,690 ft)
Accommodations:
Hotel (3-star)
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Place:
Pokhara
Drive Time:
2 hrs/day
Dates for 2025 - 2026
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.
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.
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.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate or medium-grade adventure in the Annapurna region. It is short and suitable for anyone with reasonable health and fitness, including beginners. However, it is not a leisurely walk in the park. The trek is often described as “short but steep.” You will need to climb up and down while overcoming steep sections, battling high altitudes, and navigating challenging terrain.
Although Mardi Himal is a 7 Days trek, you will ascend to an altitude of 4,500 m above sea level. It is an easily accessible trek route from Pokhara. However, the average daily trekking time spans from 5 to 7 hours. It can be physically demanding to trek for long hours every day. Similarly, as you go higher, the air becomes thinner. It exposes trekkers to the risk of altitude sickness. The changing elevation also means you will face changing and unpredictable weather conditions. You will also come across diverse ecological zones. So, the temperature keeps changing, and you need to be prepared for it smartly.
The Mardi Himal Trekking trail is well-marked, but it is less developed than trails like Annapurna Base Camp. You will mostly trek on an off-the-beaten route that goes from dense rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and rocky, narrow ridges. Additionally, the steep trail and stone steps further require good physical fitness. The terrain is rough, rugged, and uneven. The remote location also means a lack of proper logistics. There is limited infrastructure, and the available facilities are mostly basic. So, while on trek, manage your expectations. You need to be ready for unforeseen challenges. The Mardi Himal trail not only tests your strength and stamina but also tests your mental endurance.
It is also important to understand the remoteness of the trek areas. Many trekkers fail to understand how physically and mentally tiring it can be when you are actually trekking. You need to be ready for the challenges and make preparations 2 to 3 months before the journey. Those who can tackle the Mardi Himal Trek difficulty will be rewarded with one of the most remarkable and unforgettable trek experiences.
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.
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.
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.
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) |
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 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.
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:
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.
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.
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