Trek into one of Nepal’s lesser-known yet beautiful high-altitude trails with this Mardi Himal Trek. Following a quieter route off the Annapurna trail, you’ll reach over 4,000 metres with some of the best panoramic views of Machhapuchhre and the surrounding peaks. A good level of fitness and a sense of adventure is all you need for this rewarding trek.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
You'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. There will be time to meet your guide, go over your trek, and pick up any last bits of kit you may need in the lively Thamel area.
Day 2: Drive to Kande and trek to Deurali (2,100m)
After a morning drive to Kande, you’ll start walking through forests and scenic trails with gradual ascents. The walk to Deurali takes about 4–5 hours, offering your first proper taste of the trekking terrain and views.
Day 3: Trek from Deurali to Forest Camp (2,550m)
This section leads you into denser forests, mostly covered with oak, maple, and rhododendrons. The path is peaceful with gradual ups and downs. Expect about 6 hours of trekking through quiet trails with minimal human settlement.
Day 4: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,970m)
As altitude increases, the trees begin to thin, and views of Machhapuchhre start to open up. The walk is around 3–4 hours, and Low Camp gives you your first proper feel of the high alpine environment.
Day 5: Trek to High Camp (3,540m)
A steady but short uphill section takes you to High Camp, where the landscape opens up dramatically. The trail continues along a ridge, with incredible views either side. After a 3–5 hour walk, you’ll settle in at High Camp in anticipation of reaching base camp.
Day 6: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and return to High Camp
Today’s the big one. You'll have an early start to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp, which offers wide views over Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. The round trip takes 7–8 hours depending on pace and conditions. Return to High Camp for a well-earned rest.
Day 7: Trek to Siding Village (1,750m)
A long descent through forested trails and traditional villages brings you down to Siding. You’ll notice a shift in temperature and terrain as you descend, with the total walk lasting around 6–7 hours.
Day 8: Drive from Siding to Pokhara
After breakfast, you'll hop in a vehicle back to Pokhara, where you can enjoy a relaxed evening by the lakeside or treat yourself to a hot shower and local food.
Day 9: Drive or fly back to Kathmandu
Return to Kathmandu where your trip officially ends. You’ll have the option of a farewell dinner and time to reflect on the trek before heading home.
The Mardi Himal Trek takes place in the Annapurna region of Nepal, beginning with a short drive from Pokhara and heading deep into the foothills of the Himalayas. The route travels through dense forests, ridgelines, and small mountain villages before reaching High Camp and Base Camp — one of the best viewpoints in the region.
Trekkers experience peaceful trails away from the crowds found on other routes like Annapurna Base Camp. You'll move from lush lower hills to open alpine terrain, with views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and other Himalayan giants appearing more frequently as you climb. With its relatively short duration and excellent scenery, it’s become a favourite for those looking for something quieter but equally rewarding.
Accommodation throughout the trek is in traditional Nepalese teahouses, run by local families. These are basic but comfortable, offering twin or shared rooms with a mattress, blanket, and pillow. Most teahouses have shared toilets, and in the higher villages, facilities can be more limited. Hot showers are sometimes available for an extra fee, especially in lower camps like Forest Camp and Siding.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll stay in guesthouses or small hotels with private rooms and ensuite facilities. These locations provide a good place to rest and recharge at the start and end of your trip. Meals are typically provided at the accommodation throughout the trek, with a choice of local dishes like dal bhat, noodles, soups, and simple Western options depending on location.
This trek is suitable for any person in reasonable physical condition who is comfortable walking for several hours each day. Previous high-altitude experience is helpful but not required, as the itinerary is designed with gradual acclimatisation in mind.
You should be prepared for a mix of weather conditions and have gear that can handle cold temperatures and occasional rain. While the trail is well-marked and supported by experienced guides, the high point at 4,500 metres means it’s essential to follow acclimatisation advice.
The centre offers expert-led trekking experiences across Nepal with a strong focus on safety, preparation, and fun. With over 2,500 happy customers and hundreds of five-star reviews, the team puts a lot of care into every trek, whether you're going solo, as a couple, or with a group. Their guides are seasoned mountain trekkers who know the Himalayas inside out — and they’re great company too.
Part of what sets them apart is their community contribution. Each year, 3% of their revenue goes towards supporting local schools, providing clean water to remote villages, and helping care for elderly residents in need. They also work with guides from remote communities, making sure trekking not only benefits travellers but also those who call the mountains home.
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