Treks
Mardi Himal Trek
Discover the less-traveled Mardi Himal Trek, a quiet trail that winds through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and jaw-dropping ridgelines beneath Machapuchare (Fishtail Peak). Perfect for those seeking solitude, panoramic views, and a true Himalayan experience away from the crowds.
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- Local expertise. We are born and raised in Nepal, so you get firsthand knowledge that an overseas agency cannot match.
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About this Treks
Itinerary
- Day1
Drive from Pokhara to Dhampus (1,650m), Trek to Forest Camp (2,550m)
Your adventure begins with a morning drive (1 hour) from Pokhara to Dhampus, a beautiful Gurung village perched on a ridge with excellent views of the Annapurna range. After breakfast and a brief rest, you start your trek through rhododendron and oak forests. The trail gradually ascends toward Pitam Deurali, where permits are checked. From here, you leave the main Annapurna trail and head toward the more secluded Forest Camp, walking through dense and peaceful woodland.
OvernightPokhara, Forest Camp
Altitude2,550m
Walk 5–6 Hours
Ride1 hr.
MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay Basic Tea House
RoutePokhara to Forest Camp
- Day2
Forest Camp to High Camp (3,580m)
After breakfast, you begin a steady ascent through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. The trail gradually opens up as you gain altitude, revealing stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail). You’ll pass through Low Camp and Badal Danda, a scenic ridge point with jaw-dropping Himalayan panoramas.
From Badal Danda, the path becomes more alpine — fewer trees, more sky, and more snow-capped peaks surrounding you. The final stretch to High Camp follows a narrow ridge with endless mountain views on both sides. Reaching High Camp by afternoon gives you time to rest and enjoy a dramatic sunset behind Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.- OvernightForest Camp, High Camp
- Altitude3580
- Walk6–7 Hours
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Stay Basic Tea House
- RouteForest Camp To High Camp
- Day3
Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), Return to Badal Danda or Low Camp
Begin your day early for the spectacular hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail climbs steadily along a ridge with dramatic drops on both sides and uninterrupted views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and surrounding peaks. The early start allows you to witness the mountains bathed in morning light — a magical experience.
After spending time at the base camp (or the viewpoint, depending on weather and energy), descend the same way but instead of stopping again at High Camp, continue down to Badal Danda (3,210m) or Low Camp (3,050m). Both locations offer cozy teahouses with mountain views, and choosing either gives a sense of progress without retracing the full route.- OvernightHigh Camp, Mardi Himal Base Camp, Low Camp
- Altitude4,500m
- Walk7-8 Hours
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Stay Basic Tea House
- RouteHigh Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp to Badal Danda or Low Camp (round trip and descent)
- Day4
Descend to Sidhing, Drive Back to Pokhara
After breakfast, continue descending from Badal Danda or Low Camp down through dense forest trails, eventually reaching Sidhing village (1,850m). This final stretch offers a peaceful farewell to the mountains, with glimpses of rural Nepali life along the way.
At Sidhing, a pre-arranged jeep will pick you up for a 2.5-hour drive back to Pokhara. Arrive by late afternoon, ready to relax and enjoy a well-earned meal by the lakeside.- OvernightLow Camp, Sidhing, Pokhara
- Altitude827m
- Walk4 to 5 hrs.
- Ride2.5 hrs.
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- StayHotel
- RouteLow Camp to Pokhara
Includes Excludes
Includes
A comprehensive medical kit- A farewell dinner
- Arrangements for pickup from the airport and a hotel, as well as drop-off in a private vehicle
- Cover insurance for guides, including their meals, salary, lodging, and transportation
- Experience guided sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley
- Receive a trip accomplishment certificate
- A Nepal Government certified English-speaking local trekking guide
- A tourist bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu
- ACAP Permit and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Permit card for trekking
- Accommodation with twin sharing and breakfast plan in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Accommodation with twin sharing during the trekking period
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with tea/coffee during the trekking period
Excludes
Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the cost includes section- International Air tickets
- Nepal entry visa
- Personal expenses like water, laundry, phone, and bar bills
- Tips to your guide and porter (tipping is expected)
- Travel and rescue Insurance
Additional Information
On the trail
Local CultureYou’ll pass through villages with Gurung and Tamang influences. Respect local customs — a simple ‘Namaste’ goes a long way.
Teahouse HospitalityEnjoy warm dal bhat dinners and tea by the fire. Most lodges are family-run, offering a personal, friendly experience.
Mountain BeliefsMachapuchare is sacred and unclimbed. Locals view it as the abode of Lord Shiva — be respectful and avoid loud behavior near viewpoints.
Festivals & LifeDashain and Tihar add vibrant cultural flavor in autumn. Ask your guide if village celebrations are happening during your trip.
Best time to go
Spring (March–May)This season brings blooming rhododendrons and mild weather. Views are clear and days are longer — ideal for photography and comfort.
Autumn (Sept–Nov)Dry, stable, and crystal-clear — autumn is the most popular season. Perfect conditions for ridge trekking and sunrise views.
Winter (Dec–Feb)Expect snow above 3,000m. Great for solitude and clear skies, but pack extra warm clothing and gear.
Monsoon (June–Aug)Slippery trails, clouds, and leeches can be challenging. Only for experienced hikers who want lush, green solitude.
What to pack
ClothingLayering is key — breathable base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell will keep you prepared for changing weather.
FootwearGood hiking boots with grip are essential for forest and ridge trails. Bring flip-flops or camp shoes for evenings.
BackpackA 30L–40L daypack is perfect for essentials. Porters are optional due to the trek’s short duration.
Sleeping EssentialsTeahouses provide blankets, but a -5°C to -10°C sleeping bag is recommended for High Camp nights.
Trekking GearTrekking poles help on steep ridges. Don’t forget a headlamp, reusable water bottle, and purification tablets.
Health & SafetyPack a personal first-aid kit, basic meds, and altitude pills. High Camp sits above 3,500m.
Cost and permits
PermitsYou’ll need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for $30 and a TIMS card for $20 — both available in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
AccommodationBasic teahouses cost $5–$10 per night. Fewer facilities than bigger routes — bring your own snacks and essentials.
MealsDal bhat is staple fuel. Meals cost $5–$10. Higher altitudes may offer fewer choices.
Guide & PorterA guide costs $25–$35/day, porters $20–$30/day. Not essential, but helpful for safety and navigation.
ExtrasBudget for Wi-Fi ($2–$4), hot showers ($2–$3), and charging ($1–$2). Cash is king — no ATMs after Pokhara.
Estimated CostTotal cost for a 5–7 day Mardi trek ranges from $500–$1000 depending on services and comfort.
Before you travel
This trip is organised by Nepal Travel Guide
.
Most tours need only an ordinary level of fitness. A trek asks for more, and the trip page says what to expect.
If you are pregnant, or you have a heart or spinal condition, tell us before you book. We will say whether this trip is suitable.
Many temples, trails, and vehicles are not accessible by wheelchair. Ask us if you need a plan with fewer steps.
The person who books must be 18 or older. Younger travelers need an adult with them.
Weather, flights, and local conditions can change the plan. We will contact you and adjust the itinerary.
Bring your passport, your travel insurance details, and the booking confirmation.
Getting aroundA private car, a coach, or a domestic flight, matched to the itinerary.
They loved the way. Now choose your day.
Reviews
Magic Moments on the Mardi Himal Trail
One of the highlights for me was the clear view of the mountains—absolutely breathtaking. And the night view from High Camp, looking down at the sparkling lights of Pokhara, felt magical. But what really stuck with me was the moment at Badal Danda, standing above the clouds. It felt like I was on top of the world. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
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