Mardi Himal

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Altitude: 4,500m
  • Best Season: Spring, Autumn
  • Duration: 5 Days
All Regions Annapurna Region Everest Region Langtang Region Manaslu Region

Overview

Mardi Himal Trek is a scenic short trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region, offering stunning views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and surrounding peaks. The trail passes through lush forests, traditional villages, and peaceful mountain landscapes before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,500 m / 14,764 ft. The trek usually takes 5–7 days and is considered moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons, with clear mountain views and favorable trekking conditions.

Trek Route Map

Itinerary

Arrive in Kathmandu, meet our representative at the airport, transfer to your hotel, and attend a trek briefing. Trek permits will be arranged. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Fly to Pokhara (25 mins) or drive (7–8 hrs). Enjoy the lakeside city and prepare for the trek. Altitude: 825 m / 2,700 ft

Drive from Pokhara to Kande and begin trekking through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests toward Forest Camp. Drive: 1 hr, Trek: 5–6 hrs. Altitude: 2,520 m / 8,270 ft

Continue through peaceful forests with gradual uphill sections. Enjoy your first impressive views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. Trek: 4–5 hrs. Altitude: 3,150 m / 10,335 ft

Trek along the scenic ridge through alpine landscapes with panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Trek: 4–5 hrs. Altitude: 3,580 m / 11,745 ft

Start early and hike toward Mardi Himal Base Camp, enjoying spectacular Himalayan views before returning to High Camp. Trek: 5–6 hrs. Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,765 ft

Descend through forests and mountain villages to Siding. From Siding, drive back to Pokhara and relax by Phewa Lake. Trek: 4–5 hrs, Drive: 2–3 hrs. Altitude: 825 m / 2,700 ft

Fly back to Kathmandu (25 mins) or travel by road (7–8 hrs). Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Kathmandu or relaxing at your hotel. Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, marking the end of the Mardi Himal Trek.

Highlights

  • Stunning views of Mardi Himal (5,587m)
  • Close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain)
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna ranges
  • Diverse landscapes: rhododendron forests, rivers, grasslands, and Himalayan terrain
  • Peaceful traditional villages and Gurung culture
  • Scenic Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,500m
  • Beautiful sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas

Hotels and Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek

Teahouses (Most Common)

Teahouses are the standard accommodation along the Mardi Himal route. They usually offer:

  • Twin-sharing rooms with simple beds
  • Foam mattress, pillow, and blanket
  • Shared bathroom and toilet
  • Common dining hall with stove heating
  • Basic charging and Wi-Fi (extra cost)

At lower villages, accommodation is generally more comfortable, while facilities become more basic as you climb toward High Camp and Base Camp.

Lodges and Guesthouses

In villages such as Kande, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp, trekkers can find simple lodges and guesthouses with:

  • Basic private or twin-sharing rooms
  • Dining areas with heating
  • Hot showers at some lower and mid-altitude locations
  • Local and basic Western food options
  • Charging facilities, usually for an extra cost

Accommodation becomes more limited and basic at High Camp, especially during busy trekking seasons.

Accommodation at a Higher Altitude

As you climb toward High Camp (around 3,580m) and Mardi Himal Base Camp, accommodation becomes more basic:

  • Small and simple rooms
  • Thin walls and colder sleeping areas
  • Shared toilets
  • Limited hot water
  • Limited electricity and Wi-Fi
  • Basic food choices

Temperatures can become very cold at night, particularly during winter and early spring, so trekkers should carry warm layers and a suitable sleeping bag.

Cost of Accommodation

Room prices are generally affordable, although prices may increase at higher elevations.

Approximate room cost per night:

  • Lower villages: NPR 300–600
  • Forest Camp / Low Camp: NPR 400–700
  • High Camp: NPR 500–800

Hot showers, charging, and Wi-Fi may cost extra depending on the lodge.

Best Place to Stay

Low Camp is one of the popular overnight stops on the Mardi Himal Trek because it offers:

  • Comfortable teahouse accommodation
  • Beautiful views of Machapuchare
  • Forest and mountain surroundings
  • Dining facilities
  • A convenient location before continuing toward High Camp

High Camp is another important overnight stop, especially for trekkers planning an early morning hike toward Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Emergency Contact

Nepal Tourist Police – Number: 1144
Nepal Police Emergency – Number: 100
TAAN (Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal) – Contact: +977-1-5369770
Helicopter Rescue Services – In serious emergencies, helicopter evacuation may be required from locations such as Low Camp, High Camp, or other accessible points. Rescue is usually arranged through:
Your trekking agency
Travel insurance provider
Local lodge owner
Guide or porter
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