The Mardi Himal Trek is a 4–6 day journey in the Annapurna region. It is known for its dramatic ridge-line trail, where the mountains feel unbelievably close. The trek takes you from green forests to open viewpoints and finally to the high camp area with breathtaking views. Mountains you will see: Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal Annapurna I (from viewpoints). It’s short, scenic, and less commercial compared to other popular treks.
Highlights of the Mardi Himal Hike
- Close-up views of Machhapuchhre
- Stunning ridge walk from Low Camp to High Camp
- Peaceful trail with fewer trekkers
- Colorful rhododendron forests (March–April)
- Beautiful sunrise and sunset viewpoints
- Cozy teahouse stays
- Great option for beginners
- Perfect 4–6 day adventure
Simple Day-by-Day Mardi Himal Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara → Kande → Forest Camp (2,550m)
Drive: 1 hour
Walk: 4–5 hours
Highlights: Forest trail, peaceful start
Day 2: Forest Camp → Low Camp (3,050m)
Walk: 4 hours
Highlights: Rhododendron forest, first Machhapuchhre views
Day 3: Low Camp → High Camp (3,580m)
Walk: 3–4 hours
Highlights: Stunning ridge walk, open views
Day 4: High Camp → Mardi Viewpoint / Base Camp (4,200m–4,500m) → Low Camp
Walk: 6–7 hours
Highlights: Iconic sunrise, close-up mountains
Day 5: Low Camp → Sidhing → Pokhara
Walk: 3–4 hours
Drive: 2–3 hours
Highlights: Quiet route, rural villages
This is the most comfortable version, but it can be made shorter or longer.
Trek Distance & Walking Hours
- Total Distance: 35–40 km
- Walking Hours: 4–7 hours per day
- Maximum Altitude: 4,500m (Mardi Base Camp)
- Moderate but beginner-friendly if you walk slowly.
Best Time to for Mardi Himal Trek
Best Seasons
- March – May (spring): Wildflowers, warm weather
- September – November (autumn): Clear skies, best views
Possible Seasons
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold, but fewer trekkers
- Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Rainy and cloudy
Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty Level
- Moderate
- Suitable for beginners with basic fitness
- Gradual climbs
- Ridge trail requires careful walking
- One of the easier high-altitude treks in Nepal
Permits Required for Mardi Himal Trek
Easily arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Accommodation & Food
Teahouses provide:
- Private rooms (basic)
- Blankets
- Hot meals
- Charging
- Wi-Fi in some areas
- Food includes:
- Dal Bhat
- Fried rice
- Pasta
- Soups
- Potatoes
- Tea & coffee
Simple but comfortable for this trek.
Mardi Himal Trek Cost Breakdown
Approximate cost for Mardi Himal trek:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Permits | $40–50 |
| Guide | $25–30/day |
| Porter | $20–25/day |
| Meals & accommodation | $25–35/day |
| Transport | $20–30 |
Total: $320–$480 depending on services
Why Is Mardi Himal Trek Famous?
- Powerful close-up view of Machhapuchhre
- Dramatic sunrise and sunset points
- Quiet alternative to Annapurna Base Camp
- Beautiful ridge-line path
- Short trek with big rewards
Who Is This Trek Best For?
- Beginners
- Solo trekkers
- Couples
- Photographers
- Short-time travelers
- Anyone wanting peaceful trails
Packing List
- Warm jacket
- Gloves and hat
- Good trekking shoes
- Layered clothing
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Power bank
FAQs
1. Is Mardi Himal Trek good for beginners?
Yes, it is beginner-friendly and one of the best short high-altitude treks.
2. How many days does it take?
Normally 4–6 days, depending on your comfort.
3. Is altitude sickness common?
Rare, but slow walking and hydration help.
4. Do I need a guide?
Highly recommended for navigation and safety.
5. What is the best viewpoint?
Mardi Viewpoint (4,200m) offers the most dramatic sunrise.
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful short treks. It is peaceful, not crowded, and offers closer mountain views than many longer treks. The highlight is the stunning ridge walk toward Mardi Base Camp, with the mighty Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) standing right in front of you.
If you want a short adventure with big mountain scenery and a calm environment, Mardi Himal is the perfect choice.
