Mardi Himal Trek

Recommened by 99% of travelers

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Duration

10 Days

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Difficulty

Moderately difficult
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Trail Type

Subtropical Forests → Temperate Forests → Alpine Meadows → High-Altitude Ridge

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Best Season

Spring (March to May) & Autumn (September to November)

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Accommodation

Teahouse/lodges
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Region

Annapurna Region

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Start / End Point

Pokhara / Pokhara

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Max. Altitude

4,200 m (13,780 ft) at Mardi Himal Viewpoint

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Group Size

2 - 24

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Activity Per Day

5-7 hours Walking

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Transportation

Tourist bus and jeep

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Best Suited For

First-time Himalayan trekkers, casual adventurers, and trekkers looking for a scenic but moderate journey

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

  • You’ll get a close view of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna range. 
  • Experience a less crowded, peaceful trekking route. 
  • Walk through lush rhododendron and oak forests, and an alpine ridge with mountain views. 
  • Stand on Badal Danda (Cloud Hill) and witness sunsets above a sea of clouds.
  • Get to the trek’s highest point, Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,200 m (13,780 ft), and see the Annapurna massif face to face.
  • Watch the first light hit Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre from the Upper View Point.
  • Explore authentic villages like Siding or Lwang and experience genuine mountain hospitality and tradition. 

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the spectacular journeys in the Annapurna region that has drawn numerous travelers for its exceptional beauty and fewer crowds. Lying between the two iconic peaks’ faces of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South, the trek feels refreshingly fresh and unspoiled. Similarly, the route to Mardi Himal is known for its peaceful trails, close-up mountain views, and fresh natural beauty. 

The highlight of the Mardi Himal Trek is its high-altitude ridgeline. Unlike many treks that follow river valleys, this trail takes you onto a narrow ridge that takes you to high altitude for several days. Likewise, what makes the Mardi Himal Trek special is the stunning view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) along with Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Even though the trek is not very long, the views are rewarding and definitely the most remarkable adventure of your life.

The Mardi Trek is ideal for trekkers looking for a first Himalayan experience with big views but less challenge and shorter days. To anyone looking for an alternative route in the Annapurna region, this trek can be a good option. It suits both trekkers with reasonable fitness and experienced trekkers with good fitness. In addition, nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking peace will especially appreciate the Mardi Himal trail. 

10-day Detailed Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arrival in Kathmandu. Gear check.

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Drive Distance

5.8 km (3.60 mi)

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Drive Duration

30 minutes

Overnight Elevation

1,400 m (4,593 ft)

Welcome to Nepal. When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will welcome you and take you to your hotel. After a long flight, we care that you must be tired. So, this day is kept easy so you can rest and feel comfortable. You’ll check into the hotel, take a shower, relax in your room, or enjoy a short walk around the hotel area.

In the evening, our guide will help you to do gear check. He’ll make sure you have all the necessary trekking gear, including shoes, a jacket, a backpack, and other essentials. If something is missing, you can buy or rent it in Kathmandu. Your overnight stay is at the hotel in Kathmandu. 

Day 2 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

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Drive Distance

~200 km (124.3 mi)

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Drive Duration

7-8 hours

Overnight Elevation

822 m (2,697 ft)

Today, marking the beginning of your Mardi Himal journey, you’ll leave Kathmandu and make your way towards Pokhara. You can choose a comfortable drive or a short flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu (Flight cost is extra and is not included in the package cost). While the drive takes about 7-8 hours, the flight takes just 25 minutes. Although the drive is long, it takes you through Nepal’s scenic landscape, with rivers, hills, villages, and green landscapes.

If you choose to fly, you won’t regret it as the journey is quick and offers beautiful views of the mountains from the sky. After arriving in Pokhara, you’ll notice a change in the environment, which becomes relaxed and peaceful. You’ll also notice that the city is completely different from Kathmandu, as it is surrounded by mountains and centered around Phewa Lake. The day’s overnight stay is at Pokhara’s Hotel. 

Day 3 :

Drive from Pokhara to Kande by Jeep and Trek to Deurali

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Trek Distance

5.5-6 km (3.42 - 3.73 mi)

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Trek Duration

5.5-6 km (3.42 - 3.73 mi)

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Drive Distance

27 km (16.78 mi)

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Drive Duration

1 hour

Overnight Elevation

2,100 m (6,889 ft)

From today, your official journey to Mardi begins. Early morning, you’ll have a hearty breakfast in Pokhara at your hotel. After breakfast, we will meet you and take you on a one-hour jeep drive from Pokhara to Kande. The drive is scenic, passing through green hills and small settlements. Likewise, Kande village serves as the starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek.

After arrival at Kande, your trek begins towards Deurali. The initial phase of the trek starts with stone steps and gradual uphill walking through forests. The walk is not too harsh; you walk at a comfortable pace, take breaks, rest, and enjoy the fresh air.

The surroundings are peaceful, with trees, birds, and occasional mountain views through the forest. By the time you reach today’s overnight point, your body slowly adjusts to trekking, making you ready for the quite difficult days ahead. Overnight and dinner are at the Deurali’s lodge. 

Day 4 :

Trek from Deurali to Rest Camp

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Trek Distance

7 - 8 km (4.35 - 4.97 mi)

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Trek Duration

7 - 8 km (4.35 - 4.97 mi)

Overnight Elevation

2,600 m (8,530 ft)

Good morning in the Annapurna region. Wake up with the fresh air of the Himalaya and enjoy your morning meal while enjoying the raw beauty of nature. After breakfast, be ready to continue the walk into the natural beauty of the Annapurna region. The day starts with a walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests with shade and cool air. If you are trekking during spring, expect to see blooming flowers that make your walk even more enjoyable.

The route from Deurali to the Rest Camp is longer and slightly challenging. So, keep your pace slow yet steady, take breaks from time to time, and stay hydrated. As you get closer to Rest Camp, the environment becomes quieter, with fewer trekkers around. The settlement itself lies in a peaceful area, surrounded by forest and hills. Enjoy your evening and night at the Rest Camp. 

Day 5 :

Trek from Rest Camp to Mardi High Camp

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Trek Distance

8 - 8.5 km (5-5.3 mi)

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Trek Duration

8 - 8.5 km (5-5.3 mi)

Overnight Elevation

3,580 m (11,745 ft)

The fifth day marks one of the most rewarding and exciting days on the Mardi Himal Trek journey. Leaving Rest Camp after breakfast at the village, the trek takes you higher, where the forest slowly fades, and the landscape opens up. You’ll follow narrow ridges with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Continuing the trek, you begin to see mountain peaks, including Machhapuchhre in its closest form. With each step, the air feels cooler, and the scenery becomes more stunning. You will trek for about 7 hours today, which is quite long and also challenging. Yet, the stunning scenery at every step makes the walk worth it. When you reach High Camp, it will be sunset time, an unforgettable moment. Have a warm dinner and rest early tonight for the early-morning viewpoint hike another day. 

Day 6 :

Early Morning Trek to Mardi Viewpoint, then Descend to Low Camp

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Trek Distance

11-13 km (6.8 - 8.1 mi)

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Trek Duration

11-13 km (6.8 - 8.1 mi)

Overnight Elevation

3,000 m (10,000 ft)

This is the day you’ve been eagerly waiting for. Early morning, at around 4:00 AM, the hike begins towards the Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,200 m (13,780 ft). You begin the hike to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint with headlamps. The route is narrow and rocky, with a steady uphill climb; in some sections, the path is steep but not technical. In this section, walk slowly and carefully while following the ridge. 

After 2-3 hours of walking from High Camp, you get to the Viewpoint. Standing at the viewpoint feels like “yes, I did it.” From here, you get clear and close views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and other surrounding peaks. Sunrise time is the highlight, when the mountains change color with the sun’s light. Take time to appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas from the viewpoint, click photos, and most importantly, congratulate yourself. 

Afterward, you descend to High Camp through the same route. At High Camp, have your breakfast, rest, and prepare yourself to descend to Low Camp. The trail is mostly downhill and easier on the body, but take care of your knees. It takes about 4-5 hours to reach Low Camp, where you’ll spend the night. 

Day 7 :

Trek from Low Camp to Sidhing, then drive to Pokhara

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Trek Distance

5-6 km (3-3.7 mi)

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Trek Duration

5-6 km (3-3.7 mi)

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Drive Distance

25-30 km (15.5-18.6 mi)

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Drive Duration

2 hours 30 minutes

Overnight Elevation

822 m (2,697 ft)

Today, you’ll make your return journey, so it is mostly downhill. You’ll leave Low Camp after a hearty morning meal at the teahouse where you stayed last night. After breakfast, you’ll pack your backpack and make your way towards Siding. The path follows forests and quiet sections. Along the way, you see terraced farms, local houses, and villagers performing daily tasks. 

After you reach Sidhing, take a short break, then drive to Pokhara in a jeep. The drive takes you through a mountain village and transitions to city chaos. Within 2.5 hours, you get to Pokhara. Check into the hotel, get refreshed, and if you want, you can experience the nightlife of the city. Overnight at Pokhara. 

Day 8 :

Pokhara Exploration

After long trekking days, the eighth day is for you, for your comfort, and leisure time. On the day, you don’t have to trek for several hours, nor do you need to be involved in any physical activities. Similarly, you can wake up without any hurry, enjoy a slow breakfast, and take in the city’s peaceful atmosphere. 

In the afternoon, you can explore some of the well-known sites of the city, including Sarangkot, Pumdikot, World Peace Stupa, and Devis’ Fall. In the evening, you can roam around the lakeside or try boating. The Lakeside area is full of cafés and restaurants where you can sit, enjoy good food, and simply relax. Overnight at Pokhara’s Hotel.

Day 9 :

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

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Drive Distance

~200 km (124.3 mi)

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Drive Duration

7-8 hours

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Flight Hours

25 minutes

Overnight Elevation

1,400 m (4,593 ft)

Today you return to Kathmandu by drive or flight. The transportation option entirely depends on your preferences. As already mentioned, the ground transportation option is longer yet scenic. And the airway option is quicker, letting you witness the mountain sights once again. But note that the flight cost is not included in our package.

After arriving in Kathmandu, our representative will drop you off at your hotel. Check in, freshen up, and explore Kathmandu’s tourist hub, Thamel, for the rest of the day. Overnight at Kathmandu’s Hotel. 

Day 10 :

Free or departure

Depending on your schedule, you may explore Kathmandu or prepare for departure on the tenth day. If you want to explore the city or a heritage site, we would be happy to assist you. But if you have your ticket to your home country, we must say goodbye to you. 

A representative from Kora Adventure will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Your journey to 10 days Mardi Himal Trek officially ends here. We hope you enjoyed the adventure and returned home with unforgettable memories. Have a safe flight. 

Cost Includes

  • All required permit fees (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and others)
  • Licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
  • All guide and porter expenses (salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, equipment)
  • Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek (twin sharing)
  • Full board meals during trekking days (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Seasonal fresh fruits during the trek
  • One cup of tea or coffee during trekking days
  • Shared jeep transportation from Pokhara to Kande and from Sidhing to Pokhara 
  • Round-trip transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara by tourist bus
  • Trek duffel bag
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Welcome and Farewell Dinner
  • Fingertip pulse oximeter and thermometer (carried by the guide)

Cost Excludes

  • International airfare to/from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (unless specified)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Medical and emergency evacuation insurance
  • All personal expenses: personal trekking gear, clothing, hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, laundry, bottled water, soft drinks, snacks, and alcoholic beverages
  • Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff (it is recommended)
  • Expenses due to delays, weather conditions, road closures, itinerary changes, or early return

Additional Information

Altitude Build Up On the Mardi Himal Trek

During the Mardi Himal trek, expect a slow and safe rate of altitude gain. Thus, the trek is suitable for beginners and first-time trekkers. Instead of taking you to high altitude in just one or two days, the trail rises step by step. Therefore, your body gets time to adjust to thinner air by taking you to a high altitude. 

The trek starts at a low altitude near Pokhara at 822 m (2,697 ft), where breathing feels normal and easy. During the first few days, the walk goes through forests and gentle uphill paths. This early phase helps the body slowly adapt to thinner air while following natural trails rather than steep, sudden climbs. 

As you move higher toward Rest Camp at 2,600 m (8,530 ft) and High Camp at 3,580 m (11,745 ft), the air becomes cooler and thinner. Each day adds elevation, but it is comfortable for sleeping. The highest location you’ll experience on this trek is Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,200 m (13,780 ft). However, you’ll hike to the high point in the morning and return to Low Camp (3,000 m / 10,000ft) for an overnight stay. Thus, the experience will be safe and comfortable. Overall, the altitude build-up on this trek is well-planned and balanced.

Skill vs Stamina: What Matters More on Mardi Trek

When trekkers think about trek difficulty, they think the total distance and the size of the mountains are the factors that influence it. But that perception can be misleading in the Mardi Himal trek. 

About skill vs stamina: what matters more on the trek is stamina, not special skills. The trek doesn’t require technical gear, but it involves walking for several days along a path that ascends and descends. So, you must be able to keep moving at a steady, slow pace and just be consistent. 

Similarly, altitude tolerance is what you need for the trek. The trek gains height slowly, and the highest point is reached during a day hike rather than an overnight stay. Breathing is challenging at higher elevations like Rest Camp and the viewpoint, but is manageable with proper acclimatization and staying hydrated. 

Furthermore, terrain handling is part of the experience. The route follows a mixture of forest paths, ridgelines, stone steps, and downhill sections. So, each section needs careful walking and balance. Still, the route does not require tough climbing. 

Given the above information, technical skills are not required for Mardi Trek. Also, there’s no need for the use of ropes, glacier travel, or mountaineering techniques.

Why Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna Region?

There are numerous well-known treks in the Annapurna region, but why choose the lesser-known Mardi Himal trek? Well, one of the primary reasons travelers choose Mardi Himal over other treks in the Annapurna region is how differently it lets you experience the mountains without taking you to too high an altitude and longer days. 

Likewise, another reason to choose the trek to Mardi in the Annapurna region is the closeness it provides you with Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Few treks in the region take you so directly under this sacred mountain. From High Camp, the Machhapuchhre feels almost within reach, which is rare even on longer and other famous routes.

Moreover, another reason to choose Mardi Himal over other treks in the Annapurna region is the contrasting landscape it offers in a short distance and duration. Within 5 days of trek, the journey takes you from forests near Pokhara to open alpine ridges and high mountain terrain to the Mardi Himal viewpoint. In addition, the trek to the Himalaya offers a quiet alternative in a famous region.

Mardi Himal Trek: The Secret Gateway to Mount Machhapuchhre view

The Mardi Himal Trek route is known as a peaceful, secret route to one of Nepal’s most sacred and attractive mountains, Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Most of the Annapurna region’s trek offers a view of Machhapuchhre from a distance, but this trek route leads you straight toward Machhapuchhre’s south face. Similarly, the view of Mount Fishtail will accompany you throughout the journey, which seems closer as you take each step. 

What makes this trek feel like a “secret gateway” is its position within the Annapurna region. While nearby trails follow crowded routes, Mardi Himal passes through narrow slopes and high viewpoints that take trekkers below the sharp twin peaks of Machhapuchhre. Also, the High Camp and Viewpoint of Mardi Himal offer such a close view of Machhapuchhre that very few treks on the Annapurna route do. 

Moments Past Trekkers Remember Most on the Mardi Himal Trek

  • Walking in silence, with only the sound of footsteps and wind through the trees.
  • Stopping without reason, just because the view asks you to pause.
  • Feeling tired, then calm, as the body settles into the altitude. 
  • The first deep breath of cold morning air before the sunrise. 
  • Sharing simple meals at night, wrapped in warmth and feeling safe. 
  • Choosing Dal Bhat for 24-hour power and ignoring other menus. 
  • Passing through lush rhododendron and oak forests, tranquil ridges, and open landscapes with sweeping valley views. 
  • Seeing the first sunlight hit the peaks from High Camp.
  • The climb from Kande, through the forest path, with gradual ascent and changing terrain. 
  • Waking early (3:30-4:00 AM) to catch sunrise over the peaks from Mardi Viewpoint. 
  • Nights at teahouses without signals and relying on cash. 

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