Mardi Himal Trek-07 Days
Trip Facts
Highlights
- Spectacular views of place","Machhapuchhre","fishtail mountain nepal"], Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli
- Explore Mardi Himal Base Camp and High Camp for panoramic sunrise and sunset views
- Walk through dense rhododendron forests and alpine meadows
- Visit traditional Gurung villages and experience authentic local culture
- Less crowded, peaceful trekking route compared to Annapurna Base Camp
- Comfortable teahouse accommodations with freshly prepared meals
- Ridge trail offering dramatic Himalayan landscapes and photography opportunities
Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most beautiful and less-crowded trekking routes in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. This short yet rewarding adventure takes you off the main Annapurna trail and leads you to the base of Mardi Himal, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and peaceful Himalayan landscapes. Perfect for trekkers who want a quieter alternative to the busy Annapurna Base Camp route, this trek combines natural beauty, cultural experience, and moderate adventure in a short timeframe.
Organized professionally by Mountain Buddha, the Mardi Himal Trek is designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and memorable Himalayan journey. The trail passes through dense rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and scenic ridgelines with panoramic mountain views. As you ascend higher, the landscape changes dramatically from green hills to alpine terrain with wide-open vistas of towering Himalayan giants.
One of the major highlights of this trek is the close-up view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), along with stunning panoramas of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The trek reaches Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,500 meters, where trekkers are rewarded with unforgettable sunrise views over the Annapurna range. The ridge walk leading to High Camp is particularly scenic, offering dramatic mountain backdrops throughout the journey.
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with good physical fitness as well as experienced trekkers. The route offers comfortable teahouse accommodation and freshly prepared local meals. With proper acclimatization and a well-planned itinerary, the trek ensures a smooth and enjoyable high-altitude experience without extreme difficulty.
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek with Mountain Buddha is an ideal choice for those seeking a short Himalayan adventure filled with spectacular scenery and authentic cultural encounters. Whether you are trekking for the first time or returning to explore a new trail, Mardi Himal offers a perfect balance of adventure, tranquility, and mountain beauty in the heart of Nepal.
Itinerary
Arrive in Pokhara and transfer to your hotel. This day is for rest, exploration of Lakeside, and trek briefing by your guide from Mountain Buddha. Prepare your gear and enjoy the beautiful views of the Annapurna range from Pokhara.
Drive about 1–1.5 hours to Phedi, the starting point of the trek. From Phedi, begin your trek through lush forests and terraced fields to Dhampus, a picturesque Gurung village. Enjoy your first views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Today, the trail climbs steadily through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows. Pass small settlements and enjoy panoramic mountain views of Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. Deurali provides a serene mountain environment with fewer trekkers.
Start early for the climb to High Camp, passing through open ridges and spectacular landscapes. From High Camp, a short steep ascent takes you to Mardi Himal Base Camp, where you can enjoy stunning close-up views of Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. Return to High Camp for overnight stay.
Descend through forests and terraced fields to Sidding village, enjoying the changing landscapes and views of surrounding peaks. The descent is moderate and allows you to relax after the high-altitude adventure.
Continue descending from Sidding to Phedi, then drive back to Pokhara. Evening free to explore Lakeside or rest after the trek.
Transfer to Pokhara airport or bus station for onward journey. Optionally, spend extra time sightseeing in Pokhara before departure.
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Pokhara
- 2 Nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara on twin-sharing basis with breakfast
- Private vehicle or taxi from Pokhara to trailhead (Phedi) and back
- All required trekking permits in the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
- 3–4 Nights teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek (twin-sharing basis)
- Three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during trekking
- Experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide from Mountain Buddha
- Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, max 20–25 kg per porter)
- Guide and porter salary, food, accommodation, and insurance
- First aid medical kit carried by guide
- All government taxes and service charges
Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees at teahouses
- Bottled drinks, alcohol, and bar bills
- Meals in Pokhara (except breakfast included at the hotel)
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs
- Tips for guide and porter (optional but customary)
- Emergency rescue or evacuation costs in case of unforeseen situations
Equipment
Clothing
- Lightweight and breathable t-shirts/shirts
- Long-sleeve shirts for sun protection
- Light jacket or fleece for mornings/evenings
- Waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket
- Comfortable trekking pants and shorts
- Warm sweater or jacket (especially for Pokhara sunrise or Chitwan evenings)
- Underwear and socks (quick-dry preferred)
- Sleepwear for hotels and lodges
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Gloves and scarf (optional for mornings/evenings)
Footwear
- Comfortable walking or trekking shoes (well broken-in)
- Sandals or flip-flops for lodges/hotels
- Socks (extra pairs recommended)
Accessories
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
- Small daypack/backpack for daily excursions
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Camera or smartphone with charger
- Power bank
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
- Travel umbrella or rain poncho
Personal Items & Toiletries
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Towel (quick-dry recommended)
- Prescription medications (if any)
- First-aid kit (plasters, band-aids, antiseptic)
- Insect repellent (especially for Chitwan)
Documents & Money
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Nepal tourist visa or visa-on-arrival documents
- Travel insurance documents
- Photocopies of passport, tickets, and permits
- Local cash (Nepalese Rupees) and international credit/debit card
Optional Items
- Binoculars (for birdwatching and wildlife in Chitwan)
- Notebook or travel journal
- Snacks or energy bars
- Lightweight sleeping bag (optional if staying in remote lodges)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes 6–7 days, starting from Phedi and ending back in Pokhara. The trek can be extended if you want a more relaxed pace or extra acclimatization days.
The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters, and High Camp reaches around 4,150 meters. Proper acclimatization days are included in the itinerary to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
This trek is considered moderate. Trekkers should have a reasonable level of fitness and stamina for daily walking of 4–7 hours over steep and uneven terrain. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not required.
Accommodation is in teahouses and lodges along the trekking route on a twin-sharing basis. Hotels in Pokhara are included at the start and end of the trek. Basic facilities like warm beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms are available; hot showers may be available at an additional cost.
Yes, three meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) are included during the trek. Meals are freshly prepared at teahouses and typically include Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread.
While it is possible to trek independently, Mountain Buddha provides an experienced licensed guide and optional porter service, which is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and carrying luggage.
Trekking in the Annapurna region requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System), which are arranged by the trekking company.
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