The Mardi Himal Trek is a short yet rewarding Himalayan adventure, ideal for travelers seeking breathtaking mountain scenery within limited time. This hidden gem takes you into the quieter side of the Annapurna region, offering dramatic landscapes, pristine trails, and authentic cultural encounters.Perfect for trekkers with non-extendable holidays, this 8-day journey leads you beneath the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and east of Annapurna Base Camp. Though the Mardi Himal peak rises to 5,587 m, the trek reaches a comfortable high point at Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,350 m)—making it achievable while still adventurous.Officially opened in 2012, the trail remains less crowded and rich in biodiversity. Along the way, you pass through charming villages and meet warm local communities, predominantly Gurung, alongside Brahmin, Chhetri, Tamang, and Thakali cultures. The trek offers a genuine glimpse into Nepal’s mountain lifestyle, traditions, and hospitality.The journey begins in Pokhara with a scenic drive to Phedi, followed by a gradual ascent through stone-paved villages, terraced farmlands, and lush forests of oak, maple, and blooming rhododendron. As you climb higher toward Forest Camp and High Camp, the views become increasingly dramatic. Sunrise and sunset from High Camp are unforgettable highlights.
Altitude: 822 m | Drive Duration: 7–9 hours | Distance: 200 km
Overnight: Pokhara | Accommodation: Hotel at Lakeside
Your Mardi Himal Trek – 8 Days begins with a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Although the distance is moderate, Nepal’s winding mountain roads make the drive an adventure. A short domestic flight is also available. After breakfast, meet your trekking guide and board a tourist bus for the drive through countryside filled with green hills, rivers, forests, and villages. Stop for lunch at a local town and continue towards Muglin. As you approach Pokhara, weather permitting, enjoy views of the Annapurna Range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Check in to your hotel at Lakeside and relax. An early night is recommended for the next day's trek.
Altitude: Phedi 1130 m | Walking Hours: 3–4 hours | Walking Distance: 6 km | Pothana Altitude: 1890 m
Overnight: Pothana | Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast, drive to Phedi through the Baglung Highway (1–1.5 hours). Begin the trek from Phedi to Pothana, passing traditional villages and local shops. Stop for lunch at Dhampus, then continue through forest trails with beautiful landscapes until arriving at Pothana for check-in and rest.
Walking Hours: 6–7 hours | Walking Distance: 7.9 km | Forest Camp Altitude: 2554 m
Overnight: Forest Camp | Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast, follow a rocky trail changing to a forest path. Climb to Deurali with views of Fewa Lake, Pokhara Valley, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Trek through lush forests of birch, rhododendron, oak, and maple. The trail becomes steep, climbs a ridge, and finally reaches Forest Camp. Enjoy the open green area and surroundings.
Walking Hours: 8 hours | Walking Distance: 12.2 km | High Camp Altitude: 3550 m
Overnight: High Camp | Accommodation: Tea House
Begin early and trek through forested paths transitioning to shrubs and mosses. Pass through colorful rhododendron areas to Low Camp for views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Continue steep trails along rocky paths to reach High Camp. Relax by the fireside and enjoy sunset views.
Walking Hours: 7–8 hours | Base Camp Altitude: 4350 m
Overnight: High Camp | Accommodation: Tea House
Ascend along rocky terrains and ridges to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. Enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna Base Camp and Machhapuchhre. Have lunch at Base Camp and descend back to High Camp for overnight stay.
Walking Hours: 6–7 hours | Walking Distance: 8.5 km | Altitude: 1750 m
Overnight: Siding | Accommodation: Tea House
Descend from High Camp to Low Camp, passing villages and rice terraces. Stop for lunch and continue downhill through lush green jungles and farmland to reach Siding Village.
Walking Hours: 3–4 hours | Saidighatta Altitude: 1206 m | Pokhara Altitude: 822 m | Drive Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Overnight: Pokhara | Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
Trek downhill from Siding to Saidighatta through rice fields, forests, and traditional Gurung villages. From Saidighatta, drive back to Pokhara. Rest and enjoy boating, sightseeing, or leisure activities in the city.
Altitude: 1,400 m | Drive Duration: 7–9 hours | Flight Duration: 40 minutes | Distance: 200 km
Overnight: Kathmandu | Accommodation: Three-Star Hotel
After breakfast, depart Pokhara for Kathmandu by jeep, bus, or a 40-minute domestic flight. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. In the evening, join a farewell Gala Dinner celebrating the successful completion of the Mardi Himal Trek.
Packing the right gear makes a big difference to your trekking experience. One porter is assigned for every two trekkers. Each porter carries a maximum of 22 kg, so the luggage allowance is 11 kg per trekker.
We recommend sharing a duffle bag (60+ liters) with your trekking partner for porter use. You should also carry a small daypack (20–30 liters) for valuables, documents, water, and daily essentials. Any extra luggage can be securely stored at your hotel free of charge during the trek.
While personal preferences may vary, the following packing list will help you stay warm, safe, and comfortable on the trail.
We can provide a (used, non-waterproof) duffle bag, (used) down jacket, and (used) sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
