The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s newer and less-crowded treks, often called the hidden gem of the Annapurna region. It’s shorter than Annapurna Base Camp or Circuit, but still offers breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself.
Here’s a complete guide for you:
🌄 Mardi Himal Trek Overview
Region: Annapurna, near Pokhara
Duration: 5–7 days (can be extended)
Highest Point: Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m)
Difficulty: Moderate – shorter but involves steep climbs
Accommodation: Tea houses/lodges along the route
Best For: Trekkers seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path alternative to the popular Annapurna trails
🗺 Standard 7-Day Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary Day 1: Pokhara → Kande (1,770 m) → Australian Camp → Pothana / Deurali (2,100 m)
1 hr drive from Pokhara to Kande
Trek 4–5 hrs through forests and villages
Overnight in Deurali
Day 2: Deurali → Forest Camp (2,600 m)
Trek 5–6 hrs through dense forest, peaceful trail
Overnight in Forest Camp
Day 3: Forest Camp → Low Camp (2,990 m)
Trek 4–5 hrs uphill through rhododendron forest
First close views of Machhapuchhre appear
Overnight in Low Camp
Day 4: Low Camp → High Camp (3,580 m)
Trek 4–5 hrs, trail above the treeline with panoramic views
Overnight in High Camp (amazing sunset over Annapurna range)
Day 5: High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) → High Camp / Low Camp
Early morning hike (3–4 hrs) to Mardi Himal Base Camp
Stunning sunrise views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli
Return to High Camp or descend to Low Camp for overnight
Day 6: High Camp / Low Camp → Siding Village (1,700 m)
Descend through beautiful villages and farmland
Overnight in Siding (homestay/tea house)
Day 7: Siding → Pokhara
Trek 3 hrs then drive 2–3 hrs back to Pokhara
End of trek
🕒 Shorter Option – 5 Days Mardi Himal Trek
Day 1: Pokhara → Deurali
Day 2: Deurali → Low Camp
Day 3: Low Camp → High Camp
Day 4: High Camp → Mardi Base Camp → Low Camp
Day 5: Low Camp → Siding → Pokhara
(Best if you have limited time but want the highlights.)
🌟 Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
Less crowded than EBC or ABC
Close-up views of Machhapuchhre & Annapurna massif
Quiet trails through rhododendron & oak forests
Local Gurung & Magar culture in mountain villages
Panoramic ridge walk from High Camp to Base Camp
