Mardi Himal Trek
Less crowded alternative with stunning mountain views
Trip Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a beautiful and less crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna Base Camp trek. This relatively new trail offers stunning views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The trek takes you through lush forests, traditional villages, and alpine meadows with breathtaking mountain vistas.
This moderate trek is perfect for those looking for a quieter experience while still enjoying spectacular mountain views. The highlight is reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) with panoramic views of the Annapurna range.
- Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu
- Day 2 : Fly/Drive to Pokhara - 6-7 hours or 30 min flight
- Day 3 : Drive to Kande → Trek to Deurali (2,100m) - 4-5 hours
- Day 4 : Deurali → Forest Camp (2,550m) - 5-6 hours
- Day 5 : Forest Camp → Low Camp (3,150m) - 4-5 hours
- Day 6 : Low Camp → High Camp (3,580m) - 4-5 hours
- Day 7 : High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) → High Camp
- Day 8 : High Camp → Siding → Pokhara - 6-7 hours
- Day 9 : Drive/Fly to Kathmandu and Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Welcome to Nepal! Transfer to your hotel, meet your guide, and attend a pre-trek briefing. Explore the vibrant streets of Thamel in the evening.
Day 2: Fly/Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Scenic drive through the countryside or short flight to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. Explore the lakeside area in the evening.
Day 3: Drive to Kande → Trek to Deurali (2,100m) - 4-5 hours
Short drive to Kande where the trek begins. Climb through rhododendron and oak forests to Deurali, enjoying views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Day 4–6: Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp
Ascend through forests and alpine meadows to Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp, with increasingly spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna South.
Day 7: High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) → High Camp
Early morning climb to Mardi Himal Base Camp for spectacular sunrise views. After breakfast, return to High Camp for overnight stay.
Day 8–9: Descent to Siding, Pokhara; Drive/Fly to Kathmandu and Departure
Descend through forests and traditional Gurung villages to Siding. Drive back to Pokhara, then to Kathmandu for departure.
Note: The trek itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice.
Essential Gear
- Trekking boots (well broken in), daypack (30-35 liters)
- Sleeping bag (-5°C rated), trekking poles, headlamp with extra batteries
- Water bottles (2 liters), sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Clothing
- Base layers (thermal or synthetic), fleece jacket, lightweight down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants, trekking pants and shorts
- Warm hat and sun hat, gloves (lightweight and warm), wool socks (multiple pairs)
Accessories & Essentials
- First aid kit, water purification tablets, personal medications
- Camera with extra batteries, power bank, toiletries and wet wipes
- Snacks (energy bars, chocolate), cash (Nepali rupees for tips/shopping)
Your trek cost includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- Airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation pre-trek & 1 night post-trek in Kathmandu
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on twin sharing basis
- All meals on full board basis (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- All permits and conservation area fees
- Porters; insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance; group medical kit
Your trek cost does NOT include
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (evacuation cover mandatory)
- Personal expenses (drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers, etc.)
- Meals unless specified; sightseeing; gratuities
- Charges due to delays beyond our control
