TICINO TREKS

Mardi Himal Trek
Mountain Vector

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

Country

Nepal

Duration

9 days

Max Altitude

4,250 m

Group Size

5 Person

Difficulty

moderate

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Description

The Mardi Himal Trek is a short and stunning journey in the Annapurna region, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience with dramatic mountain views, serene forest trails, and traditional Gurung hospitality. The trek leads to the base of Mardi Himal (5,587m), a less explored yet spectacular peak lying just beneath the towering Machapuchare (Fishtail) and the south face of Annapurna. It is an excellent alternative to the more crowded treks in the region, perfect for trekkers who want to escape the busier trails like Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani.

This moderate trek begins from Pokhara and ascends gradually through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and ridge-line trails that offer continuous views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare, and Mardi Himal. The trail passes through charming settlements like Deurali, Forest Camp, and High Camp before reaching the upper viewpoint at around 4,250 meters. The viewpoint is the highlight of the trek, offering jaw-dropping sunrise panoramas over the Annapurna range.

This route is especially rewarding during spring (March to May) when rhododendrons bloom in full color, and autumn (October to December) when clear skies provide the best Himalayan vistas. Lodging is in tea-houses along the trail, with basic but comfortable facilities, and the route requires no technical climbing, just a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure.

The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect introduction to trekking in Nepal for those with limited time but an appetite for breathtaking views, cultural immersion, and peaceful trails away from the crowds.

Travel Notes

Best Trekking Seasons:

  • Autumn (October–December): Stable weather, clear skies, cool temperatures.

  • Spring (March–May): Warmer days and blossoming rhododendron forests.

Trek Style:

  • Tea-house accommodation (basic lodges run by locals).

  • Daily walking time: 3 to 7 hours.

Fitness & Experience:

  • Suitable for beginners with average fitness.

  • No technical climbing required.

  • Acclimatization is naturally built into the route.

 

Itineraries

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours by tourist bus. The route follows the Trishuli and Marshyangdi river valleys, passing through beautiful terraced hillsides and rural towns. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll check into your hotel near Phewa Lake and enjoy a relaxed evening in this vibrant lakeside city.

 

After breakfast, a 30-minute drive brings you to Phedi, the starting point of your trek. From here, you begin a steady ascent through stone stairways and dense forest trails, passing villages and terraced farmland. The day’s trek lasts about 6 hours, gradually climbing to the peaceful forested settlement of Deurali, which offers the first distant glimpses of Annapurna South and Machapuchare.

 

Today, the trail leads you through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests, with chirping birds and occasional views of the snow capped peaks peeking through the trees. This portion of the trek takes 6 to 7 hours, and the path becomes quieter and more tranquil as you reach Forest Camp, also known as Kokar. Here, you’ll spend the night in a peaceful forest lodge.

 

The journey continues upward as the forest gradually thins and the ridge trail opens to views of Mardi Himal and Machapuchare. You’ll hike for about 5 to 6 hours, gaining elevation steadily along moss-covered trees and misty pathways. Low Camp offers a cozy cluster of lodges set against a backdrop of alpine wilderness and the striking Fishtail peak.

 

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, ascending the ridge with incredible mountain vistas on both sides. You’ll walk for around 3 to 4 hours, crossing alpine meadows and yak pastures as you climb toward High Camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with sweeping panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. High Camp is your final lodge before the trek’s highest viewpoint.

 

You’ll begin before sunrise for a hike to the upper viewpoint of Mardi Himal, which takes approximately 4 hours round trip. The pre-dawn start allows you to witness the first golden light striking the snow-covered peaks. From the viewpoint, you can see Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and the sheer face of Machapuchare. After soaking in the breathtaking sights, you’ll descend back to High Camp for breakfast and an overnight stay.

 

After breakfast, you begin a long descent through dense forest, farmlands, and small settlements. This scenic day of trekking lasts about 6 to 7 hours, gradually leading you away from the ridgeline toward Sidhing, a charming and less commercial Gurung village. Here, you’ll experience authentic rural hospitality and stay in a local tea house.

 

The final day of trekking is a gentle downhill walk that takes about 2 to 3 hours, passing through terraced fields and villages until you reach Lumre. From here, a private vehicle will drive you back to Pokhara, where you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy the comforts of the lakeside city once again. The remainder of the day is free for rest or exploration.

 

In the morning, you’ll travel back to Kathmandu via tourist bus, a journey that takes 6 to 7 hours. You’ll retrace your way along the river valleys and rolling hills. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the trek officially concludes. You may wish to enjoy a farewell dinner or do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel.

 

Cost Includes

  • Accommodation & Meals

    • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Pokhara (twin-sharing, 3-star standard with breakfast)

    • Tea-house (lodge) accommodation during the trek (basic but clean)

    • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner with tea/coffee)

    • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara at the end of the trek

    Permits & Entry Fees

    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

    • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card

    Transportation

    • Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back

    • Private vehicle from Pokhara to Phedi (trek start point)

    • Private vehicle from Dumre to Pokhara (after trek)

    Trekking Crew

    • Professional licensed trekking guide (English-speaking)

    • 1 porter for every 2 trekkers (maximum 15–20 kg per porter)

    • Guide’s and porter’s salaries, insurance, lodging, and meals

    • Assistant guide if group size exceeds 5 people

    Logistics & Support

    • First aid kit (carried by the guide)

    • Down jacket and sleeping bag (on request, return after trek)

    • Duffle bag for trekking gear (to be returned after the trek)

    All government and local taxes

Cost Excludes

  • Accommodation & Meals

    • Lunch and dinner in Pokhara and Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)

    • Bottled drinks, mineral water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages

    • Snacks and desserts beyond included meals

    Personal Gear & Equipment

    • Personal clothing, trekking boots, and gear (headlamp, poles, etc.)

    • Sleeping bag liner and personal toiletries

    Insurance & Emergency Services

    • Travel insurance (mandatory, covering medical and emergency evacuation)

    • Helicopter rescue or evacuation (if required)

    • Personal medical expenses, hospitalization, or medication

    Entry & Visa

    • Nepal tourist visa (easily available on arrival at Tribhuvan Airport)

    • International airfare and airport departure taxes

    Miscellaneous

    • Tips for guide and porters (customary, but at your discretion)

    • Extra nights in Pokhara or Kathmandu in case of early return or delays

    • Any services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary (paragliding, boating, etc.)

    • Additional transportation or porter service not included in the program



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