Mardi Himal Trek

Overview

Launched in 2012, the 9-day Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new yet increasingly popular route into the stunning Annapurna Sanctuary. While less known than the Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Base Camp treks, it offers equally breathtaking views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), and Gangapurna Himal (7,454m), making it a rewarding and cost-effective trekking option.

Inspired by the Mardi Himal Trek, Green Valley Nepal Treks has also introduced a new itinerary: the Annapurna North Base Camp Trek, perfect for those seeking to explore fresh and challenging terrain in the Annapurna region.

Scenic Trails Through Rhododendron Forests and Alpine Landscapes

The trek begins with a journey through dense rhododendron forests on winding trails. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into high-altitude terrain, offering stunning views of Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail. The forest is rich in biodiversity, featuring bamboo groves and a chorus of birdsong. Wildlife sightings may include Himalayan Thar, long-tailed langurs, and birds like the Danphe, Kalij, and Monal.

This lesser-traveled route is ideal for avoiding crowds while enjoying nature’s tranquility.

A Rapid Ascent to 4,000 Meters with Comfortable Amenities

Mardi Himal Trek is one of the few treks in Nepal that brings you quickly to an elevation of over 4,000 meters. The growing number of tea houses along the route provides more dining and lodging options, making the journey accessible for trekkers of varying fitness levels.

This hidden gem offers a unique blend of panoramic mountain views, encounters with wildlife, forest walks, river crossings, and ridge trails. One highlight is reaching Badal Danda, where you’ll witness spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre.

Trek Itinerary Overview

Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites before flying to Pokhara. A short drive takes you to Kande, the trek’s starting point. From there, you’ll hike to Australian Camp, then to Pothana, and spend the night at Pitam Deurali.

The trek continues through Forest Camp and Rest Camp before reaching Low Camp for an overnight stay. The next day, you’ll ascend to High Camp, followed by a morning hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. Afterward, descend to Siding village and return to Pokhara by shared jeep.

In Pokhara, enjoy a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake and explore local attractions before returning to Kathmandu by tourist bus, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure.

Plan Your Trek with Green Valley Nepal Treks

At Green Lotus Trekking Pvt. Ltd, we’re proud to offer this carefully crafted 9-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary—designed to deliver the experience of a lifetime. Bookings are now open for 2025 and 2026. We also offer itinerary customization based on your schedule, budget, and fitness level.

For pricing and additional details, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help!

Benefits of Booking Mardi Himal Trek With Us

• Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from the international airport
• Free Green Valley Nepal Trek T-shirt and duffel bag
• Complimentary Mardi Himal Trek map
• Medical kits available when needed
• Free luggage storage at Green Lotus Trekking during the trek

What Can You Expect from Mardi Himal Trek?

• Tucked away in the heart of the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden treasure alongside the famed Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks.
• Reaching an altitude of 4,500 meters, this trek is beginner-friendly yet deeply rewarding. Unlike the busier routes in the area, Mardi Himal offers a peaceful, less crowded experience—perfect for immersing yourself in nature.
• As the sun rises, witness a breathtaking panorama of Mount Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiuchuli glowing in the early light—an unforgettable moment on the trail.
• Between March and April, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland. Even at lower elevations, fresh snowfall creates the feeling of a true mountain expedition, making the journey both magical and invigorating.
• Though relatively short, the trek is filled with memorable experiences and modern comforts. Cozy tea houses with Wi-Fi, hot showers, and charging stations ensure a comfortable trip—no camping required.

For Whom Is the Mardi Himal Trek Suitable?

The Mardi Himal Trek is ideal for a wide range of travelers, especially those seeking a moderate yet rewarding Himalayan experience. Here’s who will enjoy this trek the most:

• Beginner Trekkers: With its moderate difficulty, the Mardi Himal Trek is perfect for first-time trekkers or those with limited experience. It offers a manageable challenge while showcasing the grandeur of the Himalayas—without the demands of more strenuous routes like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit.
• Nature Lovers: If you’re drawn to natural beauty, this trek is a treat. The route passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and alpine meadows, with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
• Solitude Seekers: Unlike Nepal’s busier trails, Mardi Himal remains relatively quiet, especially during the off-season. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a peaceful, less-crowded trekking experience.
• Fitness Enthusiasts: While not overly strenuous, the trek does require several hours of hiking each day on varied terrain. A decent level of physical fitness and some pre-trek training will greatly enhance your enjoyment.
• Photography Buffs: The ever-changing landscapes, dramatic sunrises and sunsets, and snow-capped peaks offer endless photographic opportunities. Nature and landscape photographers will find the trail incredibly inspiring.

Note: While the trek is accessible, individual fitness levels and preferences vary. It’s recommended to consult a trekking agency or certified guide to determine if this trek suits your personal condition and expectations.

Preparation for Mardi Himal Trek

Trekking to Mardi Himal Base Camp is a moderately challenging adventure that rewards those who are prepared. While it’s suitable for anyone in good health, being physically fit and mentally motivated is key.
Fitness Tips
To get ready:
Practice with short hikes: Build stamina with walks that last 6–8 hours over varied terrain.
Do aerobic exercises: Running, swimming, and cycling are great ways to increase endurance.
Try yoga: It helps improve breathing and flexibility.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during the trek.
With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy one of Nepal’s most scenic trekking experiences!

Useful Info

Best Season For Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek:

The Mardi Himal Trek can be done year-round, but autumn and spring are considered the best seasons for an unforgettable experience.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Nepal, including the Mardi Himal route. Following the monsoon, the weather clears up, offering:

• Crisp, clean air
• Excellent visibility of the Annapurna range
• Stunning landscapes and vibrant fall colors

This is the most popular time due to ideal temperatures and scenic beauty.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is the second-best time for the trek. Nature comes alive with:

• Blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers
• Lush greenery and rejuvenated trails
• Generally clear skies with great mountain views

This pre-monsoon season is perfect for nature lovers, offering both beauty and pleasant trekking conditions.

Meals on Mardi Himal Trek:

Food is an essential part of your trekking experience. While options are basic, teahouses along the trail provide hearty and satisfying meals to keep you energized.

Breakfast

Breakfast fuels your day and is typically served before the trek begins. Common options include:

• Bread or chapati
• Eggs (boiled, scrambled, or omelets)
• Porridge or soup
• Pancakes (plain, honey, or apple)

Lunch

Lunch is considered the main meal of the day in Nepal. Most trekkers enjoy:

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables) – a staple and energy-rich option
• Noodles, pasta, momos (dumplings), pizza, burgers, and other local or Western-style dishes

Dinner

After a long day of hiking, dinner is a chance to relax and refuel. Teahouses offer:

• Similar options to lunch, including Dal Bhat and a variety of hot meals
• Hot and cold beverages (tea, coffee, soft drinks)

Note: While Nepalese trekkers often eat Dal Bhat twice a day, international trekkers can choose from a variety of familiar and local dishes.

Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a teahouse trek, meaning accommodation is provided in local guesthouses along the route. The trail passes through a remote and less populated part of the Annapurna region, so lodging is simple and limited in terms of amenities. Rooms are generally small and mostly twin-sharing. Private rooms may be available upon request, but cannot be guaranteed, especially during peak trekking seasons. Bathrooms may be shared or attached, depending on the location and availability. As altitude increases, accommodation options become more basic and harder to secure.

Difficulty Level of Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is often overlooked but offers a moderate level of difficulty, making it suitable for beginners. Compared to treks like Everest Base Camp or Manaslu Circuit, it is relatively easier. However, some steep ascents can be challenging, especially for first-time trekkers. The most demanding section is the climb from High Camp to Base Camp, which involves steep and rocky terrain. Trails can become slippery during rain, especially through forested areas. Proper rest, hydration, and moderate fitness levels are key to a successful trek. No technical equipment such as ropes or ice axes is required.

Travel Insurance for the Mardi Himal Trek
Though the risk of altitude sickness on the Mardi Himal Trek is relatively low, travel insurance is essential. The trek may encounter unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, illness, landslides, or extreme weather. Your insurance must cover medical expenses, high-altitude evacuation, and helicopter rescue. While we can recommend providers based on our clients’ experiences, we do not offer insurance ourselves. Once you’ve booked your trek, please submit a copy of your insurance policy. In case of emergency, we will coordinate evacuation using the details provided.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and Remedies
Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), may occur above 3,000 meters. Since Mardi Himal Base Camp sits at 4,500 meters, AMS is a potential risk. Common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and nosebleeds.
If symptoms appear, stop ascending and rest. If there’s no improvement, descend to a lower altitude. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen (500 mg) can help manage symptoms. Acetazolamide (250 mg, twice daily) may also be used to prevent or treat AMS.

Recommended Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek
Proper gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. Your equipment should be lightweight, breathable, and suitable for high-altitude trekking. Here’s a suggested packing list:

• Sleeping bag (suitable for cold temperatures)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Trekking poles
• Duffel bag or backpack
• Warm, layered clothing
• Gloves, hats, and thermal socks
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Personal hygiene items
• Water bottles and purification tablets
• All necessary travel documents

Refer to our detailed Nepal Trekking Packing List for more information.

Guides and Safety Measures:

At Green Valley Nepal Treks, your safety is our top priority. We take the following precautions to ensure a safe trekking experience:

• Experienced trek leaders and certified guides
• First aid and wilderness training for all staff
• Regular health and motivation checks during the trek
• Sanitation checks for meals and accommodations
• Availability of essential equipment and first aid supplies
• Authority to modify or cancel treks based on health conditions
• Emergency evacuation via helicopter if needed (insurance required)

How To Book For Mardi Himal Trek?
Green Lotus Trekking is a government-registered, fully licensed, and bonded trekking company in Nepal. We are proud members of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN).

To book your Mardi Himal Trek:

• A 10% advance payment is required
• Email us the following within a week of booking:
  • Copy of your passport
  • Two passport-sized photos
  • Travel insurance details
  • Flight information

We accept payments via Western Union, bank transfer, or online through our website. The remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu by cash, bank transfer, or credit card. Payment instructions will be provided after booking.