Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden pride for adventurers! It is located just a few kilometers east of Annapurna Base Camp. You can enjoy an entirely charming and peaceful destination beyond lush rhododendron forests. Whereas, the breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna I almost throughout the trek.
Mardi Himal (5587m) is an extension of the southwest section of the Machhapuchhre peak. The trail to Mardi Himal High Camp leads through the small Gurung and Magar settlements. Along with the rhododendron forests until high camp.
The landscape changes quite abruptly from hills to a rugged high mountain landscape. Also one of the shortest famous family treks in Annapurna. It remains a peaceful trail compared to the neighboring Ghorepani and Annapurna Base Camp trails.
Mardi Himal trek begins in Kathmandu, with a drive or flight to Pokhara, and then continues to Kande Village, about 40 km northwest of Pokhara. From there, the journey takes you through beautiful stops like Australian Camp and Deurali, leading up to Low Camp. As you climb higher, you’ll pass through stunning rhododendron and bamboo forests on your way to High Camp (4,500m).
From High Camp, a short hike takes you even higher for panoramic views of the Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal. The actual Mardi Himal summit is just a couple of hours away, though most trekkers enjoy the views from the viewpoint above High Camp.
After soaking in the beauty, you’ll descend through alpine meadows and lush forests to Siding Village, where the trek concludes with a drive back to Pokhara. Your adventure ends once you return to Kathmandu.
The Mardi Himal Trek is best done in the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is clear, and the views are at their best.
Duration: Those who want to participate in this Mardi Himal Trek must have 9 days of vacation, and if you are already here in Nepal, then you can complete it in a week.
Physical Fitness: Moderate level of fitness. First-time and beginner trekkers can participate in this trek.
Health Condition: Must be physically fit and healthy.
Age requirements: No age restrictions.
Daily walking hours: Trekkers must be able to walk an average of 4-5 hours during the trek.
Passport: Foreign trekkers must have a valid passport( at least six months of validity)
Health and Travel Insurance: High Route Adventure will not ask for your travel insurance, but we highly recommend having it.
The Mardi Himal trek is less populated than the rest of the treks, which is perfect for individuals who yearn to have time to themselves. You trek through beautiful rhododendron forests, serene groves of bamboo, and grasslands covered in wildflowers. Fresh air, birdsong, waterfalls, and the swaying of the breeze in the trees make you feel as if you have bid farewell to the stress of everyday life. It is the perfect way to relax and be one with nature.
The Mardi Himal trek takes you to the base camp at about 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). Reaching this height feels like a big achievement. The walk is tough in some parts, with rocky and steep paths, but the view at the top is worth it. You’ll see stunning mountains like Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail). It’s a moment that boosts your confidence and gives you a feeling of success.
Along the trek to Mardi Himal, you will pass through Gurung villages. They are very friendly and generous. You will have the option to have tea at their homes and see them doing everyday chores. It is the best way to experience Nepali culture and traditions.
On the trek to the Mardi Himal, you will stay overnight in small villages in teahouses. They provide basic accommodation and meals, but it is genuine and homey. You’ll dine with fellow hikers, huddle over the fire, and share tales. There will be no luxuries so that you will enjoy the little things – such as an open sky full of stars.
This trek is neither too hard nor too demanding. It is suitable for the majority, even if you’re trekking inexperienced. No climbing skills or special gear is needed. With a little exercise and getting used to the altitude, many novices do the trek and have fun.
Season | Daytime Temperature | Nighttime Temperature |
Spring (mardi himal trek in march, april, may) | 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) at lower altitudes, 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at higher altitudes | 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F) at lower altitudes, -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F) at higher altitudes |
Summer/Monsoon (mardi himal trek in june to august) | 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) at lower altitudes, 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at higher altitudes | 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) at lower altitudes, 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at higher altitudes |
Autumn (mardi himal trek in september to november) | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) at lower altitudes, 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at higher altitudes | 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) at lower altitudes, 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) at higher altitudes |
Winter (mardi himal trek in december, january) | 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F) at lower altitudes, -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) at higher altitudes | -5°C to -12°C (23°F to 10°F) at lower altitudes, colder at higher altitudes |
Mardi Himal trek is possible throughout the year, but the best seasons to experience this wonderful trail are the spring and autumn seasons. The two seasons have been chosen as the most suitable due to the following reasons.
The ideal season to hike to Mardi Himal is autumn because it has clear weather with stable conditions.
Note: Off-seasons for the trek to Mardi Himal are December to February (winter) and from June to August (monsoon season). Winter is a season of freezing temperatures and snow, especially at higher altitudes, which can render hiking difficult. The monsoon season comes with heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and the danger of landslides, so trekking is not advisable.
Here is the list of permits and their costs for the Mardi Himal Trek in the table below:
Permit Name | Description | Cost (Approx.) |
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. | $30 USD |
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) | Mandatory for all trekkers to ensure safety and proper record-keeping. | $20 USD |
To get the Mardi Himal Trek permits you need to provide us the following documents and information:
Note: When you book with us, you don’t have to worry about getting these permits. We will arrange this for you to make your trip smooth and hassle-free.
The cost of the 9-day Mardi Himal Trek package with High Route Adventure depends on the group size. The larger the group, the more discounts you can receive per person. Let’s take a look at the Mardi Himal trek package cost per person.
No. of People | Price Per Person |
1 – 1 | $630 USD |
2 – 6 | $570 USD |
7 – 12 | $540 USD |
Are you looking for the short Mardi Himal trek which can be completed in under a week? Then here is our 5 Days Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara. To know more in detail about the cost and the package, make sure to contact us. This Mardi Himal Trek 5 Days is best for Nepali and foreign who want to explore Mardi Himal from Pokhara.
Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary 5 Days
Day 1: Drive to Kande, then Trek to Samjay Deurali( 1 hr drive and 4 – 5 hr trek)
Day 2: Trek to Badal Danda( 6 – 7 hr trek)
Day 3: Trek to High Camp(2 – 3 hours trek)
Day 4: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and trek to Low Camp( 7 – 8 hrs trek)
Day 5: Trek to Sidhing and drive to Pokhara( 3 hours trek and 3 hours drive)
Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon your arrival, our representative will warmly receive you at the airport and bring you to your hotel located at the heart of the city. You'll meet your trek guide at the hotel and discuss the itinerary in detail. The guide will prepare your TIMS and other permits in advance.
After early breakfast at the hotel, you'll embark on a commute and drive towards Pokhara located almost 200km west of Kathmandu City. Along with being a popular tourist destination, Pokhara serves as the gateway to many major and minor trek destinations such as Upper Mustang, Annapurna, Ghorepani, Sikles, and Mardi Himal. The scenic road journey may last 6-7hr and will offer a unique perspective on the lifestyle of hilly inhabitants. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll be escorted to your hotel.
After early morning breakfast at the hotel, you'll embark on a scenic 40min drive northwest of Pokhara. You'll drive almost A hour through Baglung Highway to arrive at the quaint Kande village. From here, you'll begin traversing along the forest's path toward Mardi Himal. Passing through small Gurung villages, you'll arrive at the Australian camp from where you can catch the magnificent sights of Annapurna massif. The trail continues along the lushly decorated rhododendron forest towards Pothana village. a Gurung village and you take to stop for lunch there. you'll find a forested ridge that takes you directly toward Pitam Deurali. It is lying in between Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, and Machhapuchhre peaks. stay overnight
Leaving Pitam Deurali, you'll continue trekking through the forested path toward the forest camp. The trail passes along the beautiful rhododendron forests. You won't find mountains visible in this section. Rising above the forests, you'll make your way towards Low Camp with only a handful of lodges. Once at Low Camp, you'll find the pristine views of Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal up close. You can choose to hike an hour more towards Badal Danda to enjoy a clearer view of the surrounding mountains.
The trail leaves the forested path and advances towards rugged and sparsely vegetated terrain. You'll walk above the rhododendron forest and arrive in the shrubby alpine zone. Close to High Camp, you can catch the first close sight of snow-capped Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre peaks. A short uphill trek from here will bring you to High Camp. Overnights stay at High Camp.
You'll make the final ascent of the trek and climb toward Upper View Point. You'll continue along the steeper trail that approaches Mardi Himal. Almost two hours of trekking will bring you to Mardi Himal Base Camp from where you can catch the pristine sight of Mardi Himal's summit. Almost two hours of the additional hike will bring you to Upper View Point. You can catch a close view of the Mardi Himal summit along with Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Gangapurna, and Annapurna III peaks from here. Afterward, you'll begin descending towards Badal Danda.
Leaving Badal Danda, you'll begin descending through the Rhododendron forested trail towards the Magar settlements. You'll take a detour and climb down towards Siding village which lies close to Low Camp. Unlike other villages in the region, Siding remains a traditional Magar village located amidst the lush forests on the foothills of Mardi Himal. From Siding, you'll catch a commute back to Pokhara City. It may take almost 1:30 hr to reach Pokhara. Overnights stay at Pokhara.
Today, you'll bid farewell to Pokhara city and head back to Kathmandu. The beautiful sight of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna I will be visible while you depart. It may take 6-7hr through Trishuli Highway to arrive at Kathmandu. Once in Kathmandu, you will be escorted to your hotel.
You'll leave for the airport. Our representative will drive you back to the airport approximately 2hr early so as to avoid any delays from traffic congestion.
Mardi Himal Location: Mardi Himal is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area in north-central Nepal, close to the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mountain.
Mardi Himal Base Camp altitude: The Mardi Himal Base Camp altitude is 4,500 meters above sea level.
Mardi Himal Trek Route: The Mardi Himal Trek normally starts in Kande, a small village about a 40-minute drive from Pokhara. For shorter journeys you can also start your trek from Kalimati, Pitam Deurali, or Siding
Mardi Himal Trek Shortest route: Dhampus Pothana village is an excellent choice for a 5-day Mardi Himal trek.
On this 9 Days, Mardi Himal trek, your trekking starts from Kande, which stands at an altitude of 1770 meters (5,807 feet) and takes you to the maximum altitude of base camp, which is 4500 meters (14,764 feet). While reaching such altitude, some trekkers might face altitude sickness symptoms such as Headache, Dizziness or light-headedness, Nausea or vomiting, Loss of appetite, Fatigue or weakness, Shortness of breath, and Trouble sleeping (insomnia).
Pro Tips: To avoid altitude sickness during the Mardi Himal Trek, follow acclimatization plans such as walking slowly, avoiding alcohol, drinking enough water and taking proper rest.
Mardi Himal Trek routes take you through the diverse landscape, like lush forests, steep inclines, and rocky paths. Walking in such terrain can be tough for first-time trekkers.
Pro Tips: To deal with tough terrain, use good trekking shoes, carry trekking poles and maintain good leg strength.
The Mardi Himal weather is unpredictable sometimes, with the potential for rain, snow, or bright sunshine even in one day.
Pro Tips: Pack layer clothing items, waterproof clothing, and rain gear.
The Mardi Himal Trek route is less developed compared to the Annapurna base camp trek and Everest base camp trek. You can expect basic teahouse accommodations and limited medical facilities.
Pro Tips: Carry essentials like a first-aid kit and travel insurance for emergencies.
Long trekking days, especially during the Mardi Base Camp summit, are tough and demand mental fortitude.
Pro Tip: Stay positive and focus on your dream of reaching base camp.
Read more: A Complete Travel Guide to Mardi Himal Trekking
While you book the Mardi Himal Trek Package with High Route Adventure then we will arrange your room in the tea house/mountain lodge. This tea house provides the basic facilities of lodging and food for the trekkers. Inside the room you will get a cozy room with a warm blanket, small table, twin bed, bedsheet, pillow and shared toilet facilities.
When you are in the Mardi Himal Trek High Route Adventure will arrange a three meal for you. You will have a veg and non veg option and if you have any special dietary option then you can tell us while booking. Mostly you will get the simple Nepali traditional mean and few other international dishes made in Nepali style. Let’s see the common dish you can expect on the menu in the tea house.
Breakfast: Tibetan bread with jam or honey, Boiled eggs or omelette, Pancakes (plain, apple, or banana), Porridge or muesli with milk
Lunch and dinner: Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles), Fried rice or noodles with vegetables, egg, or chicken, Pasta with tomato or cheese sauce, Mo:Mo (Nepali dumplings), Noodles, Potato curry or vegetable curry with rice or chapati
Drinks: Black tea, milk tea, or masala tea, Coffee (instant or brewed), Hot lemon with honey, Bottled water or boiled/filtered water, Soft drinks, Alcoholic beverage
Note: Drinks will not be included in the Mardi Himal Trek Package.
ATM: You can find the Atm facilities in Kathmandu and Pokhara city but at the trekking areas there are no Atm Facilities. So carry local currency while you are on a trek.
Drinking water: You can buy the water bottler or use a hot water bottle to refill water. Water is expensive at high altitude compared to lower altitude.
Wifi: All the tea houses that you will spend the night in provide you the facilities of Wifi at extra cost. They will charge you around USD 1- 3 to use WIFI service.
Hot Shower: Hot shower facility is also available at the tea house but it's not free and water is also limited. You need to pay around USD 2-3 for a hot shower facility.
Electricity: You will find the charging station in the tea house where you can charge your all electronic devices and this service is also not free. You need to pay around USD 1-3 per hour.
On this Mardi Himal Trek Package we will arrange for you the tourist bus from Kathmandu. You will reach Pokhara in around 6-7 hours and from Pokhara we will arrange you a private jeep or taxi to Kande. After completing the trek you will take a tourist bus and return to Kathmandu. For those who want to avoid the road they can use the flight. If you want to use flight then you need to add the extra cost for this service.
Note: The flight fare can be changed depending upon peak season, availability and other factors.
Here are the teams that you will get once book the Mardi Himal Trek Package with High Route Adventure.
Private Vehicle with Driver: We will arrange your private vehicle for airport pickup and drop of facility.
Trekking Guide: We will provide you with a licensed trekking guide who is experienced and well-trained. Our guide speaks good English and will ensure your safety while giving proper instructions throughout the trip. If you are in a large group then we will also provide you with an assistance trekking guide.
Porter: High Route Adventure will provide you porter service for your Mardi Himal Trek and one porter will be assigned among two trekkers. One porter will carry a language up to 20kg.
For those who have extra time and want to explore more of the Annapurna region, you can add Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp to your Mardi Himal trek itinerary. You can even add both Ghorpani and Annapurna base camp in Mardi Himal Trek as well. This side trip will add more adventure to your trekking journey, as you will experience a stunning sunrise view, beautiful landscapes, and a deeper connection with the Himalayas.
Booking: To book the Mardi Himal Trek with High Route Adventure we suggest you read the details about the package. After that, you can book the Mardi Himal Trek package for your preferred date based on your interest and schedule. To confirm the booking you need to make an advance payment of 20% of total cost that is written on the website.
Payment: You can make a payment using a credit card, bank transfer, or other secure online payment methods accepted by High Route Adventure. We will not be responsible for the bank charge. For the Online Payment check here:
Cancellation Policy: The advance payment is non-refundable, but you can use it for any future trek in Nepal or choose to postpone your trip to a later date.
Mardi Himal Trek takes you near Mardi Peak (5,587m), Fishtail Peak or Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and other 7000 and 8000-meter tops. The most noteworthy purpose of your journey is to Mardi Himal Base Camp situated at 4,500 meters above ocean level. The low degrees of oxygen in such a climate will sometimes a while make breathing troublesome.
The symptoms of altitude sickness include dizziness, nausea, difficulty in sleeping, fatigue, and headache. You can also experience loss of appetite, rapid pulse, and shortness of breath. If you feel any of the mentioned sicknesses then immediately inform your tour guide or someone responsible and start climbing down to lower altitudes if you can.
The symptoms can have varying effects on different people. The most commonly felt symptom is shortness of breath. So, be mindful and keep out of these symptoms.
Altitude | Oxygen Level |
1000m/3281ft | 88% |
2500m/8201ft | 73% |
3000m/9843ft | 68% |
3500m/11483ft | 64% |
4000m/13123ft | 60% |
4500m/14764ft | 57% |
Contrary to popular belief, you don't require a lot of intricate gear and equipment for this journey. Here's a basic checklist of the vital elements you must remember to carry when embarking on your Mardi Himal Trek:
There are only a few of the essential items. Find a Packing list for the trekking in Nepal.
The majority of trekking gear can be rented in Kathmandu, alleviating the need for heavy baggage. By packing only the necessities and acquiring the remaining items through rentals or purchases in Kathmandu, you can travel light. Thamel's shops provide both branded and locally crafted gear and equipment.
You can leave your spare luggage in your hotel’s storage room. It is completely safe and free. But do make sure to lock your luggage before leaving it in storage.