Mardi Himal Trek - 11 Days
Trip Code: MH-01
A short yet rewarding Himalayan trek, the Mardi Himal route offers stunning close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range through peaceful forest and ridge trails. Ideal for those seeking a quieter alternative, it combines scenic landscapes, cultural experiences and manageable trekking difficulty.Price Per Person
USD 990No. of People
Price Per Person
1 Pax
USD 990
1–5 Pax
USD 960
5–8 Pax
USD 920
8–12 Pax
USD 900
12–15 Pax
USD 850
Overview
Introduction to Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short treks, offering breathtaking Himalayan scenery without the crowds of the more famous routes. Located in the Annapurna region, this trail takes you through dense rhododendron forests, alpine ridges and dramatic mountain landscapes before reaching the spectacular Mardi Himal Viewpoint.
The trek begins with a journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal’s scenic lake city. From there, the trail climbs through beautiful forests and mountain ridges toward Mardi Himal.
The highest point of the trek is the Mardi Himal Viewpoint at around 4,200 meters, which offers an incredible close-up view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), one of Nepal’s most sacred peaks.
Although shorter than many Himalayan treks, the journey offers a complete trekking experience including mountain views, forest trails and cultural encounters.
Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
- Scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara
- Explore the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara
- Trek through rhododendron and oak forests
- Spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
- Walk along peaceful ridge trails above the clouds
- Sunrise views from Mardi Himal Viewpoint
- Experience traditional teahouse hospitality
- Less crowded alternative to other Annapurna treks
These highlights make the Mardi Himal Trek ideal for trekkers looking for mountain scenery and a quieter trekking experience.
What Makes the Mardi Himal Trek Special?
Unlike many classic treks that follow busy routes, the Mardi Himal Trek feels more intimate and peaceful. The trail climbs high ridges that provide unobstructed views of the Annapurna range almost throughout the journey.
One of the most memorable moments of the trek is reaching the Mardi Himal Viewpoint early in the morning. As the sun rises, the peaks of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna glow in golden light, creating a breathtaking Himalayan panorama.
Another unique aspect of this trek is the gradual transition in landscapes. You begin in lush forests filled with rhododendrons and bamboo before emerging onto alpine ridges with sweeping views of snow-covered peaks.
For trekkers seeking a quieter adventure in the Himalayas, this trek offers an unforgettable experience.
Trek Route Experience
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you are welcomed and prepared for the trek ahead. The next day, you travel west to Pokhara, a city famous for its lakes and mountain views.
From Pokhara, the trekking trail begins with a short drive to Kande before hiking toward Deurali through beautiful forest paths.
As you continue higher, the trail climbs through Forest Camp and eventually reaches High Camp, where the forest gradually gives way to open alpine terrain.
The highlight of the journey comes with the early morning hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint, where trekkers witness spectacular views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and the surrounding peaks.
After enjoying the mountain scenery, the trek descends through forests to Sidhing before returning to Pokhara and finally Kathmandu.
How Difficult Is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered moderate in difficulty.
It does not require technical climbing skills, making it suitable for beginners with good physical fitness. However, trekkers should be prepared to walk between 4 to 6 hours per day on mountain trails that may include steep ascents and descents.
The highest elevation of the trek is around 4,200 meters, which is significantly lower than Everest Base Camp, so the risk of altitude sickness is lower but still something to be aware of.
With proper pacing, hydration and preparation, most trekkers can complete the journey comfortably.
Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek are:
- Spring (March to May)
Rhododendron forests bloom with vibrant colors and the weather is generally clear with pleasant temperatures.
- Autumn (September to November)
This season offers excellent mountain visibility, stable weather and comfortable trekking conditions.
Winter months are quieter but colder, while the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and limited mountain views.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation during the trek is provided in local teahouses, which are small mountain lodges run by local families. Rooms are simple and usually twin-sharing, with shared bathrooms in most locations.
Meals typically include traditional and international trekking dishes such as:
- Dal bhat (rice, lentils and vegetables)
- Noodles and soups
- Pasta and potatoes
- Fried rice and pancakes
These meals are designed to provide energy for long days of trekking.
Permits Required
Trekkers in the Mardi Himal region require the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
These permits are mandatory and are arranged before the trek begins.
Places You Will See
Mountain vistas
Captivating view
Valley views
Itinerary
Highlights
- Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
- Warm welcome and private transfer to hotel
- Rest and recovery after international travel
- Optional walk around Thamel tourist area
- Trek briefing and preparation discussion
- First introduction to Nepali culture and atmosphere
Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: 30–60 minutes (airport transfer)
Distance: Approx. 6–8 km drive
You will arrive in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal. After airport pickup, you will be transferred to your hotel and assisted with check-in. The rest of the day is free for rest after your flight or a gentle walk around the nearby streets depending on your energy level. In the evening, a short briefing about the trek will help you understand the route, safety and preparations ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Difficulty Level: Easy
Highlights
- Trek permit and documentation arrangement
- Gear checking and last-minute shopping
- Visit to UNESCO heritage sites if time allows
- Explore vibrant streets of Thamel
- Cultural exposure to temples and local traditions
- Relaxation before Himalayan journey begins
Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: Full day (4–6 hours flexible activity)
Distance: Local travel only
Today is dedicated to final trek preparation. You can explore Kathmandu’s cultural landmarks, shop for trekking gear or simply relax. Your guide will help check permits and equipment. This is also a good day to experience Nepal’s rich heritage through temples and local markets.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Easy
Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara region
- Start of trek from Phedi through forest trails
- Traditional villages and terraced farmlands
- Gradual ascent into Himalayan foothills
- First glimpses of Annapurna range landscapes
- Peaceful overnight stay in mountain teahouse
Max Elevation: 2,100 meters
Duration: 6–7 hours (drive + trek)
Distance: 6 km trek + 6–7 hour drive
After an early breakfast, you will drive towards Pokhara region and continue to Phedi. From here, the trek begins through lush forests and stone steps leading upward. The trail gradually ascends through small settlements and terraced fields before reaching Deurali, offering your first real mountain views.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Deurali
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights
- Walk through dense rhododendron forests
- Beautiful views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
- Peaceful mountain trails with fewer settlements
- Gradual increase in altitude and cooler climate
- Scenic photo stops along forest ridges
- Cozy stay in a remote mountain lodge
Max Elevation: 3,000 meters
Duration: 5–6 hours trek
Distance: Approx. 8–9 km
Today’s trail becomes more scenic as you enter dense rhododendron and oak forests. The path climbs steadily with occasional clearings offering stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). As you reach Low Camp, the temperature drops and the Himalayan atmosphere becomes more prominent.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Low Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights
- Walk above the tree line into alpine zone
- Panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre
- Dramatic change in landscape and vegetation
- Clear mountain air and wide open ridges
- Stunning sunset views from High Camp
- Preparation for early morning viewpoint hike
Max Elevation: 3,550 meters
Duration: 4–5 hours trek
Distance: Approx. 6 km
The trail opens up today with breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range. As you ascend above the tree line, the landscape changes dramatically into alpine terrain. High Camp offers one of the best sunset views in the region.
Accommodation: Teahouse in High Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Highlights
- Early morning hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint
- Spectacular sunrise over Annapurna range
- Close-up view of Machhapuchhre peak
- Snow-covered Himalayan landscapes
- Emotional and rewarding summit experience
- Return trek to High Camp for rest
Max Elevation: 4,200–4,300 meters
Duration: 6–7 hours (round trip hike)
Distance: Approx. 8–10 km
Early morning hike leads you to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint. The sunrise over the Himalayas is one of the most unforgettable moments of the trek. After spending time at the viewpoint, you return to High Camp for rest.
Accommodation: Teahouse in High Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Highlights
- Scenic descent from High Camp ridge
- Changing views of Annapurna and forest valleys
- Quiet and peaceful woodland trails
- Opportunity to spot local birds and wildlife
- Refreshing lower altitude climate
- Comfortable rest in forest surroundings
Max Elevation: 3,550 meters → 2,500 meters
Duration: 5–6 hours trek
Distance: Approx. 10 km
Today you descend through ridgeline trails and forests. The journey feels refreshing as you retrace parts of the trail while enjoying different perspectives of the mountains. Forest Camp provides a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by greenery.
Accommodation: Teahouse in Forest Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights
- Final descent through traditional villages
- Experience rural Nepali lifestyle in Siding
- End of trekking route and farewell to trails
- Scenic countryside drive to Pokhara
- Relaxation time by lakeside city
- Comfortable hotel stay in Pokhara
Max Elevation: 2,500 meters → 1,700 meters
Duration: 5–6 hours trek + 2–3 hours drive
Distance: Approx. 8–10 km trek + drive
You descend further to Siding village, where your trekking journey officially ends. From here, a scenic drive takes you back to Pokhara. The evening is free to relax by Phewa Lake.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Highlights
- Scenic return journey from Pokhara
- Optional mountain flight experience
- Relaxed day after trekking adventure
- Last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel
- Reflection on trekking memories
- Return to cultural capital city
Max Elevation: 822 meters → 1,400 meters
Duration: 6–8 hours drive or 25 minutes flight
Distance: Approx. 200 km (drive)
After breakfast, you will travel back to Kathmandu either by tourist bus or flight. The rest of the day is free for shopping, relaxation or exploring more of the city.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Easy
Highlights
- Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
- Visit heritage temples and cultural sites
- Relaxation after Himalayan trek
- Local food experience in city restaurants
- Photography and shopping opportunities
- Free day for personal exploration
Max Elevation: 1,400 meters
Duration: Full day flexible
Distance: Local travel
This day is reserved for leisure or optional sightseeing. You can visit temples, UNESCO sites or simply relax in a cafe. It is a buffer day in case of weather delays during trekking.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Easy
Highlights
- Smooth airport transfer service
- Assistance with departure procedures
- Final views of Kathmandu city
- Completion of Himalayan adventure
- Last-minute farewell from Nepal
- Memorable trekking experience concluded
Duration: 30–45 minutes transfer
Distance: Approx. 6–8 km drive
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. Your journey concludes with beautiful memories of the Mardi Himal Trek and Nepal’s hospitality.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cost Include
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu to Pokhara and return transportation
- Accommodation during the trek
- All meals during the trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- Porters to carry luggage
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS trekking permit
- All ground transportation in Nepal
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- First-aid kit carried by the guide
- Government taxes and service charges
Cost Exclude
- International flights to/from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Travel and trekking insurance
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry, etc.)
- Extra porter services
- Wi-Fi, charging and communication fees
- Tips for guides and porters
Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek - 11 Days
Clothing
- Thermal layers (tops & bottoms)
- Trekking shirts and pants (quick-dry)
- Fleece and down jackets
- Waterproof/windproof jacket
- Gloves, hat, sunhat, trekking socks
Footwear
- Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in)
- Comfortable shoes for evenings
Accessories & Gear
- Sunglasses (UV protection), sunscreen, lip balm
- Headlamp / flashlight with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Backpack (30–40 L), daypack
- Sleeping bag (suitable for -10°C or lower)
- Camera / phone and power bank
Documents
- Passport and visa
- Trekking permits (TIMS & ACAP)
- Travel insurance documents
- Emergency contacts
Photo Gallery
Map
FAQs
While this trek is moderately challenging, it is suitable for beginners with good physical fitness and determination. Adequate preparation is recommended.
The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is clear, and the views are at their best.
The trek is designed for gradual acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. However, trekkers should be aware of symptoms and communicate with guides if feeling unwell.
Tea houses offer simple, hygienic meals such as rice, noodles, and soups. Boiled or filtered water is available, but bringing water purification tablets is advised.
Yes, charging facilities are available at most tea houses for a small fee.
A detailed packing list is provided, but key items include sturdy trekking boots, a warm down jacket, thermal layers, a backpack, and a sleeping bag.
Price Per Person
USD 990No. of People
Price Per Person
1 Pax
USD 990
1–5 Pax
USD 960
5–8 Pax
USD 920
8–12 Pax
USD 900
12–15 Pax
USD 850
