26/09/2026
Mardi Himal Trek – A Spectacular Himalayan Adventure
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic short treks, offering an incredible combination of peaceful forest trails, traditional mountain villages, dramatic Himalayan landscapes, and spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I, and Mardi Himal.
Starting from the beautiful city of Pokhara, the trail gradually climbs through rhododendron and oak forests before reaching the open alpine ridges above High Camp. As you gain altitude, the landscape changes dramatically—from lush green forests to wide mountain meadows and rugged Himalayan terrain.
The highlight of the trek is the early-morning hike toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint, around 4,200–4,250 meters, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. Some longer itineraries continue toward the true Mardi Himal Base Camp, around 4,500 meters.
Why Trek Mardi Himal?
Mardi Himal is ideal for trekkers who want a relatively short Himalayan adventure without sacrificing spectacular mountain scenery. The route combines:
Stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
Panoramic Annapurna mountain views
Beautiful rhododendron and oak forests
Traditional Gurung villages and local culture
Peaceful mountain trails and alpine landscapes
Sunrise and sunset from the high ridge
Comfortable teahouse accommodation
A convenient starting point near Pokhara
The trek is generally considered a moderate trek, with a steady climb and some demanding sections at higher elevations.
Mardi Himal Trek Route
A popular itinerary follows:
Pokhara → Kande/Phedi → Australian Camp → Pothana/Deurali → Forest Camp → Low Camp → High Camp → Upper Viewpoint/Mardi Himal Base Camp → Siding → Pokhara
High Camp is around 3,580 meters on some current route references, while the Upper Viewpoint is approximately 4,200 meters. Elevation figures can vary slightly between route maps and operators.
Day-by-Day Outline
Day
Itinerary
Approx. Elevation
Day 1
Pokhara to Kande/Phedi, trek to Forest Camp
2,500–2,600 m
Day 2
Forest Camp to Low Camp
3,000–3,200 m
Day 3
Low Camp to High Camp
3,580 m
Day 4
Early morning hike to Upper Viewpoint / Mardi Himal Base Camp, return
4,200–4,500 m
Day 5
High Camp to Siding Village
1,700–1,900 m
Day 6
Siding/Lumre to Pokhara
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The route can be customized into shorter or longer itineraries depending on your walking pace, transportation, and whether you want to visit the true Base Camp. Nepal Tourism Board also publishes a 10-day version that incorporates travel from Kathmandu and additional villages.
The Himalayan Views
One of the greatest attractions of Mardi Himal is the impressive mountain panorama. From the upper ridge, trekkers can see Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Annapurna I, along with other peaks of the Annapurna massif.
The close-up view of Machhapuchhre from the high ridge is particularly spectacular, especially around sunrise when the mountains begin to glow.
Experience Local Culture
The lower section of the Mardi Himal trail passes through villages where you can experience the hospitality and traditional lifestyle of local mountain communities, including Gurung settlements. The combination of cultural villages, forests and high-altitude landscapes makes the trek more than simply a mountain walk.
Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek
The most popular periods are generally spring and autumn, when mountain visibility is often favorable and the trails are more comfortable. Spring also brings rhododendron blooms to the forest sections.
Winter can bring cold temperatures and snow at higher elevations, while the monsoon season can bring rain, clouds and slippery trails.
Trek with Himalayan Guide Treks
With Himalayan Guide Treks, you can experience Mardi Himal with an experienced local trekking team, carefully planned itineraries, knowledgeable guides, comfortable teahouse accommodation and support throughout the journey.
Whether you are looking for a short Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara, a relaxed itinerary for your family, or a longer Annapurna adventure, we can customize the trek according to your available time and interests.
Mardi Himal Trek – Explore the Quiet Side of the Annapurna Himalayas
Start your adventure from Pokhara and walk through forests, traditional villages and spectacular Himalayan landscapes to the high ridge beneath Machhapuchhre.
Himalayan Guide Treks – Explore the Himalayas.
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More information details
Himalayan Guide Treks Pvt Ltd.
Email: [email protected]
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