Mardi Himal Trek
Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering spectacular mountain scenery without the crowds found on some of Nepal's more popular trekking routes. Reaching a maximum altitude of 4,500 m (14,764 ft) at Mardi Himal Base Camp, this trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, peaceful alpine meadows, scenic ridgelines, and charming mountain villages, with breathtaking views at every turn.
Your adventure begins in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara before a short drive to Phedi, where the trekking trail begins. As you ascend through dense forests and traditional villages, the landscape gradually transforms into open alpine terrain with panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Along the way, you'll enjoy magnificent views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and several surrounding Himalayan peaks.
One of the highlights of the trek is reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp, where you'll be rewarded with spectacular close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the surrounding mountains. The scenic ridge leading to High Camp and Base Camp is considered one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Annapurna region, offering unforgettable Himalayan panoramas throughout the journey.
At Summit Calling, we believe that every trek should be safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Our experienced local guides, carefully planned itineraries, and commitment to excellent service allow you to explore the Himalayas with confidence while creating lifelong memories.
Trek Highlights
- Reach Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) and enjoy spectacular close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range
- Walk along one of the most scenic ridgelines in the Annapurna region with panoramic Himalayan views
- Experience breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna I
- Trek through beautiful rhododendron, oak, and pine forests filled with rich Himalayan flora
- Stay in traditional Himalayan tea houses and experience warm local hospitality
- Explore charming mountain villages, including Pothana and Siding Village
- Enjoy peaceful trails with fewer crowds compared to many other popular treks in the Annapurna region
- Witness spectacular sunrise and sunset views from High Camp
- Ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers looking for a short and rewarding trek
- One of Nepal's best short Himalayan treks
Itinerary
Tap a day to see the full details.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival in Pokhara, our team will receive you and transfer you to your hotel. Hotel check-in begins at 12:00 PM, so if you arrive earlier, you can leave your bags at the reception and start exploring while your room is being prepared.
Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside city and the gateway to many of Nepal's most popular trekking adventures. Once you have settled in, you will have free time to explore the Lakeside area, known locally as Baidam. This lively part of the city is filled with cafés, restaurants, souvenir shops, and outdoor gear stores. It is the perfect place to relax beside Phewa Lake, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or purchase any last-minute trekking essentials. In the evening, we will gather at the hotel for a detailed trek briefing, where you will meet our team and fellow trekkers. We will walk you through the itinerary, conduct a gear check, discuss altitude safety, and answer any last-minute questions to ensure everyone is well prepared for the journey ahead.
Today, we begin with a short scenic drive from Pokhara to Phedi, where our trekking adventure officially begins. The drive passes through peaceful countryside, terraced farmland, and small villages before reaching the trailhead at the base of the Annapurna foothills.
From Phedi, we begin our climb through beautiful forests and stone staircases towards Dhampus, a traditional Gurung village known for its spectacular mountain views. Continuing along the well-maintained trail, we gradually ascend through rhododendron and oak forests before reaching Pothana, a peaceful village located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area.
After checking into our tea house, you can relax while enjoying magnificent views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and the surrounding hills. The peaceful mountain atmosphere makes Pothana a wonderful place to begin our Himalayan adventure.
After breakfast, we leave Pothana behind and follow a peaceful trail into dense forests of rhododendron, oak, maple, and pine. Compared to other popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region, today's trail is quieter, allowing us to fully enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the surrounding wilderness.
As we gain altitude, the forests become denser and the sounds of birds and flowing streams accompany us along the way. During spring, the rhododendron forests burst into colourful bloom, creating one of the most beautiful sections of the trek.
By afternoon, we arrive at Forest Camp, a small stop surrounded by pristine woodland. After checking into our tea house, enjoy a warm meal and relax in the peaceful Himalayan surroundings as we prepare to climb higher tomorrow.
Today is one of the most scenic days of the trek. Leaving Forest Camp, we continue climbing through beautiful forests before reaching Low Camp, where the landscape begins to open and magnificent mountain views appear for the first time.
As we continue towards Badal Danda and High Camp, the dense forests gradually give way to alpine meadows and open ridgelines. Throughout the day, breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal accompany us, becoming even more spectacular as we gain altitude.
By afternoon, we arrive at High Camp, beautifully located on a ridge overlooking the Annapurna range. After checking into our tea house, spend the evening enjoying one of the finest sunset views in the region while preparing for tomorrow's exciting hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Today is the highlight of the trek. We will begin before sunrise and make our way towards Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). The trail follows a spectacular ridgeline with breathtaking views throughout the journey. As we climb higher, the vegetation becomes sparse, giving way to rugged alpine terrain and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Upon reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp, you will be rewarded with magnificent close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and several surrounding Himalayan peaks. This incredible viewpoint offers one of the closest perspectives of Machhapuchhre available to trekkers, making it one of the most memorable moments of the entire journey.
After spending time at Base Camp, taking photographs, and enjoying the spectacular surroundings, we will retrace our steps to High Camp for a short rest before continuing our descent to Low Camp. Walking downhill is generally easier, allowing us to cover more distance while enjoying the changing landscapes once again. Upon arrival at Low Camp, we will check into our tea house and enjoy a well-deserved evening of rest after an unforgettable day in the Himalayas.
Today, we leave the main Mardi Himal trail and descend towards the traditional Siding Village. The route passes through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, peaceful mountain trails, and terraced farmland as we gradually lose altitude.
Unlike the ridgeline route used during our ascent, today's trail offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local communities living in the Annapurna region. Along the way, we pass traditional homes, cultivated fields, and picturesque hillside landscapes that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage.
By afternoon, we arrive at Siding Village, a quiet Himalayan village known for its warm hospitality and beautiful surroundings. After checking into our tea house, enjoy a relaxing evening while experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of this charming mountain village.
After breakfast, we begin our final day of trekking with a gentle descent from Siding Village to Saidighatta. The trail passes through forests, terraced farmland, and small villages, offering one last opportunity to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Annapurna region.
Upon reaching Saidighatta, our vehicle will be waiting to transfer us back to Pokhara. The scenic drive winds through beautiful countryside before returning to the lakeside city.
After checking into the hotel, you will have time to freshen up and relax. In the evening, join us for a traditional farewell dinner as we celebrate the successful completion of the Mardi Himal Trek. You will also receive your Mardi Himal Trek Completion Certificate in recognition of this memorable achievement.
Today marks the end of your unforgettable Mardi Himal Trek. Depending on your onward travel plans, enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Our team will transfer you to Pokhara Airport, or assist with your onward travel arrangements, in good time for your flight or journey ahead.
Thank you for choosing Summit Calling for your Mardi Himal Trek. We hope to welcome you again on another unforgettable Himalayan adventure. Safe travels!
Trek Difficulty
The Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. No previous mountaineering experience is required. During the trek, you'll typically walk 4 to 7 hours per day on a mix of forest trails, stone staircases, alpine ridgelines, and mountain paths. While the climb to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) can be physically demanding, the gradual ascent allows your body time to adjust to the increasing altitude. We recommend preparing with regular walking, hiking, stair climbing, or cardio exercises for a few weeks before your trek.
Inclusions
- Accommodation in Pokhara (2 Nights)
Stay in a comfortable 3-star category hotel on a twin-sharing basis.
- Accommodation During the Trek (5 Nights)
Twin-sharing accommodation in mountain lodges/tea houses throughout the trek.
- Airport Transfers
Airport pick-up on arrival and hotel-to-airport transfer in Pokhara as per the itinerary.
- Ground Transportation
Ground transportation between Pokhara, Phedi, and Saidighatta, and all transportation as per the trekking itinerary.
- Permits & Documentation
All necessary paperwork, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and all applicable trekking fees.
- Professional Trek Guide
Experienced English-speaking trekking guide throughout the trek.
- Porter Service
One porter is shared between two trekkers for carrying personal luggage (maximum combined weight of 20 kg).
- Assistant Guide
Assistant trekking guide for groups of six or more participants.
- Health & Safety
Basic first-aid medical kit carried by the trekking guide.
- Trekking Map
Complimentary Mardi Himal Trek route map.
- Staff Salary & Allowance
Salary, insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, and allowances for trekking staff.
- Taxes & Service Charges
All applicable government taxes and local service charges.
- Trek Completion Certificate
Mardi Himal Trek Completion Certificate.
- Farewell Dinner
Traditional farewell dinner in Pokhara.
Exclusions
- Meals
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara, breakfast on Day 2 and Day 8, and all meals during the trekking days at mountain lodges/tea houses, except the farewell dinner (where included as per the itinerary). Meals during the trek are available as an add-on with our Meal-Inclusive Package.
- Travel Insurance & Emergency Rescue
Mandatory travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and hospitalization.
- International & Domestic Travel
International airfare to and from Nepal, domestic travel to and from Pokhara, and any excess baggage charges.
- Nepal Entry Visa
Nepal entry visa fees and any associated immigration charges.
- Personal Expenses
Bottled water, beverages, alcohol, tea/coffee, snacks, personal food purchases, Wi-Fi, phone calls, battery charging, laundry, hot showers, hot drinking water, souvenirs, and other personal comfort services.
- Personal Trekking Equipment
Sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking boots, clothing, trekking poles, personal medication, and other personal trekking gear. Trekking equipment can be rented or purchased in Pokhara.
- Hotel Accommodation & Services
Additional hotel accommodation in Pokhara beyond what is specified in the itinerary, including extra nights, room upgrades, early check-in before 12:00 PM, and late check-out.
- Tips & Gratuities
Tips for trekking guides, porters, and support staff.
- Itinerary Changes & Emergency Evacuation
Expenses arising from itinerary changes due to weather conditions, illness, landslides, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances, including emergency evacuation costs.
- Force Majeure
Costs arising from natural disasters, landslides, earthquakes, strikes, political unrest, pandemics, government restrictions, or other force majeure events.
- Other Exclusions
Any service, activity, or expense not specifically mentioned under the Inclusions section.
Optional Add-ons
- Single Occupancy
Private room available on request at an additional cost (subject to availability).
- Room with Attached Washroom
Available on request at an additional cost (subject to availability).
- Personal Trekking Guide
Available on request at an additional cost.
- Additional Porter
Available for carrying luggage beyond the standard baggage allowance, at an additional cost (subject to availability).
- Extra Hotel Night in Pokhara
Available before or after the trek at an additional cost (subject to availability).
Altitude & Acclimatization
Although the itinerary allows for gradual altitude gain, it's important to be aware of the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Our experienced guides monitor every trekker throughout the journey and prioritize safety at all times.
- Walk at a comfortable pace
- Stay well hydrated
- Eat nutritious meals
- Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trek
- Inform your guide immediately if you experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, or unusual fatigue
Best Time to Trek
Spring (March–May)
- Rhododendron forests in full bloom
- Pleasant daytime temperatures
- Excellent mountain visibility
- Ideal conditions for photography
Autumn (September–November)
- Stable weather
- Crystal-clear Himalayan views
- Comfortable trekking temperatures
- Nepal's most popular trekking season
Winter (December–February)
- Snow-covered landscapes
- Fewer crowds on the trail
- Cold temperatures, especially near High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp
- Suitable for trekkers prepared with proper winter gear
Monsoon (June–August)
- Lush green forests and vibrant landscapes
- Waterfalls at their most spectacular
- Peaceful trails with fewer trekkers
- Frequent rainfall and slippery sections along the trail
- Best suited for experienced trekkers who don't mind wet conditions
Why Choose Summit Calling?
- Experienced Local Guides
Our licensed, English-speaking trekking guides have extensive experience in the Mardi Himal region and are committed to making your journey safe, enjoyable, and informative.
- Carefully Planned Itinerary
Our well-paced itinerary is designed to provide a comfortable trekking experience with gradual altitude gain, allowing proper acclimatization while maximizing your time in the mountains.
- Safety First
Your safety is our highest priority. Our guides carry a basic first-aid medical kit, monitor trekkers throughout the journey, and are trained to respond to altitude-related situations.
- Comfortable Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable 3-star hotel accommodation in Pokhara and clean, welcoming tea houses throughout the trek, offering an authentic Himalayan experience.
- Transparent Pricing
Our packages include all essential trekking permits, accommodation, transportation, guide services, porter support, and government taxes, with no hidden costs.
- Small Group & Private Departures
Choose from scheduled small-group departures or customize the trek with a private itinerary that best suits your travel plans.
- Authentic Himalayan Experience
Explore beautiful forests, traditional Gurung villages, scenic ridgelines, alpine landscapes, and spectacular mountain views while experiencing the warm hospitality of the Annapurna region.
- Memorable Trekking Experience
From the peaceful forests of Forest Camp to the breathtaking views from Mardi Himal Base Camp, every day of the trek offers unforgettable scenery and rewarding Himalayan experiences.