Mardi Himal Trek – A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region Kathmandu to Kathmandu – 11 Nights / 12 Days
All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 to 14 participants. 👉 “One Destination. One Small Group. One True Adventure.”
🗓️ 12 Days – Arrival to Departure
👥 Small Group | 4–14 Participants
🚩 Guaranteed Departure
🎒 Guided by English Speaking Trek Leader or Hire Prasan
The Mardi Himal Trek is a lesser-known but stunning alternative to the more crowded trails of Annapurna. Tucked quietly to the east of the famous Annapurna Base Camp route, this short and scenic trek leads you off the beaten path and up to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), right beneath the dramatic summit of Machapuchare (Fishtail).
The trail offers a perfect blend of adventure, solitude, and natural beauty. From lush forests of rhododendrons to high alpine ridges with sweeping views of the Annapurna range, the Mardi Himal Trek feels like your own private path to the heart of the Himalayas.
Ideal for trekkers looking for a quieter trail with equally epic views, this is a journey that takes you beyond the typical tourist routes—offering soulful connection, high-mountain panoramas, and unforgettable moments of peace.
Why Mardi Himal Trek With Prasan?
Trek with a certified local guide who has led more than 40 Himalayan treks and lives this mountain life every day. When you join me on the Mardi Himal Trek, you gain not only expert guidance—but deep connection to the land, culture, and the moment.
✅ Over 10 years of experience as a licensed trekking and wellness guide
✅ Small groups for authentic and immersive experiences
✅ Mindful, wellness-centered approach with yoga, meditation, and sound healing
✅ Strong focus on safety, altitude awareness, and ethical travel
✅ Personalized care with heart-centered leadership
Walk quietly. Breathe deeply. Discover the magic of Mardi Himal together.
Highlights Of Mardi Himal Trek
- Panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Machapuchare (Fishtail)
- Quiet and less-crowded trails—perfect for off-the-beaten-path trekking
- Scenic ridge walks with dramatic sunrise and sunset views
- Lush rhododendron forests and diverse Himalayan flora and fauna
- Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters with breathtaking alpine scenery
- Traditional Gurung and Magar villages with warm local hospitality
- No domestic flights required—easy road access from Pokhara
- Daily guided wellness sessions: yoga, meditation, and sound healing
- Ideal for short-duration trekkers with moderate fitness
- Great for photography lovers—cloud play, mountain backdrops, and forest light
Mardi Himal Trek Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Airport pick-up and hotel transfer.
- Day 2: Drive to Pokhara (820m) – Scenic 6–7 hour overland journey.
- Day 3: Drive to Kande, trek to Deurali (2,100m) – 1 hr drive, 4–5 hrs trek.
- Day 4: Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m) – 6–7 hours through dense rhododendron forest.
- Day 5: Trek to Low Camp (3,150m) – 4–5 hours along forested trail.
- Day 6: Trek to High Camp (3,550m) – 3–4 hours with stunning ridge views.
- Day 7: Hike to View Camp (4,500m) and back – 6–7 hrs round trip.
- Day 8: Trek down to Siding Village (1,750m) – 6–7 hours descent.
- Day 9: Drive to Pokhara – 2.5 hour drive, free time by the lake.
- Day 10: Free day in Pokhara – Optional relaxation or adventure activities.
- Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu – 6–7 hour return journey.
- Day 12: Final departure – Airport drop-off after breakfast.
🗓️ Mardi Himal Trek – Detailed Itinerary
12 Days / 11 Nights | Kathmandu to Kathmandu
The Mardi Himal Trek itinerary is a well-paced, 12-day journey that takes you from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene heights of Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters. This scenic and off-the-beaten-path trek winds through rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and dramatic ridgelines with panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail).
Perfect for trekkers seeking a shorter yet rewarding Himalayan adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek offers rich cultural encounters, peaceful trails, and breathtaking sunrise moments above the clouds—all in under two weeks.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Airport pickup, hotel check-in, trek briefing, welcome dinner
Accommodation: Tourist-standard hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the magical Himalayas! Your Mardi Himal Trek adventure begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal’s vibrant capital. Our friendly representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the city. After you’ve settled in, we’ll gather in the evening for a trek briefing, gear check, and traditional welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali flavors. This is a great time to meet your guide, fellow trekkers, and get excited about the journey ahead.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Scenic countryside drive, riverside views, lakeside sunset
Accommodation: Hotel near Phewa Lake
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we begin a scenic 6–7 hour drive to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region and starting point for the Mardi Himal Trek. The road winds through lush hills, charming villages, and alongside the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. We’ll arrive in Pokhara by late afternoon—just in time to enjoy a lakeside sunset over the calm waters of Phewa Lake. You can spend the evening walking along the vibrant lakeside promenade, sipping tea, or relaxing in your hotel.
Day 3: Drive to Kande, Trek to Deurali (2,100m)
Activities: Short drive, trek through rhododendron forest and terraced fields
Accommodation: Cozy tea house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we drive for about an hour to Kande, where our actual Mardi Himal Trek on foot begins. The trail starts with a gentle climb through Australian Camp and continues to Pothana. You’ll pass through stone-paved paths, oak forests, and open ridgelines with striking views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail). We reach Deurali by afternoon—a peaceful village perched on a ridge offering beautiful Himalayan vistas.
Day 4: Trek from Deurali to Forest Camp (2,600m)
Activities: Peaceful forest trail, birdwatching, immersion in nature
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving the main trail behind, we venture into the forested section of the Mardi Himal Trek. This part of the route is serene and silent, perfect for reconnecting with nature. The trail winds through a dense canopy of rhododendron and mossy woods where you may spot Himalayan monals and other birdlife. The stillness of this day is meditative. We reach Forest Camp by late afternoon, where the quietude and beauty of the mountains surround us.
Day 5: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (3,150m)
Activities: Ascend through thinning forest, first glimpses of high peaks
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we gain more altitude as we hike toward Low Camp. The trees begin to thin, and the landscape becomes more open, offering your first full view of Machapuchare’s razor-sharp summit. The trail is peaceful, and the views become more rewarding as we go higher. The air is crisp, and the Himalayas begin to feel closer with every step of the Mardi Himal Trek.
Day 6: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3,550m)
Activities: Ridge walk with panoramic views, evening mountain photography
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This is one of the most scenic sections of the Mardi Himal Trek. We follow a narrow ridgeline with drop-offs on either side and views stretching across the Annapurna range. Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Fishtail seem close enough to touch. High Camp is nestled on an open hillside and offers a perfect place to watch sunset over the mountains. Prepare your camera—this is a magical night.
Day 7: Hike to View Camp (4,500m), Return to High Camp
Activities: Sunrise ascent, dramatic mountain views, return trek
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The big day has arrived! We start before dawn, hiking with headlamps to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp just in time for sunrise. The trail is steep but manageable, and the views at the top are beyond description—a full 360° panorama of snowy peaks including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and the dramatic Machapuchare. This is the crowning moment of the Mardi Himal Trek. After soaking in the beauty, we descend back to High Camp for a well-earned rest.
Day 8: Trek from High Camp to Siding Village (1,750m)
Activities: Descent through forest and farmland, cultural village stay
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We take an alternate route down through forests, terraced fields, and small farming settlements. The atmosphere changes quickly as we re-enter lower altitudes. By afternoon, we reach Siding—a traditional village untouched by mainstream tourism. Here, the Mardi Himal Trek becomes deeply cultural as you share stories, meals, and smiles with the locals in a truly authentic Nepali setting.
Day 9: Drive to Pokhara (820m)
Activities: Scenic drive, lakeside relaxation
Accommodation: Hotel near Phewa Lake
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, we board our private vehicle and drive back to Pokhara—just a 2.5 hour journey. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy: go shopping, try out a local spa, walk around the lake, or simply rest your legs after the trek. Your Mardi Himal Trek may be over, but the memories linger in every sunset reflection on Phewa Lake.
Day 10: Leisure Day in Pokhara
Activities: Optional paragliding, café hopping, World Peace Pagoda
Accommodation: Hotel near Phewa Lake
Meals Included: Breakfast
A full day to explore and unwind! Take a boat ride to Barahi Temple, hike up to the World Peace Pagoda, or even try paragliding over the valley. Pokhara is the perfect post-trek city to relax your body and relive the highlights of your Mardi Himal Trek. In the evening, enjoy a lakeside dinner or simply stroll through the vibrant streets of this peaceful city.
Day 11: Drive Back to Kathmandu (1,400m)
Activities: Scenic return journey, farewell dinner (optional)
Accommodation: Tourist-standard hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave Pokhara after breakfast and drive back to Kathmandu through winding hill roads. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to shop for souvenirs, visit a stupa, or enjoy your final night with fellow trekkers. The Mardi Himal Trek may be complete, but its lessons and beauty will stay with you forever.
Day 12: International Departure
Activities: Airport drop-off, farewell hugs
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our team will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Thank you for joining us on this transformative Mardi Himal Trek journey. We hope the peace of the mountains and the warmth of the people remain with you long after you’ve left Nepal.
💰 Mardi Himal Trek Package Cost
| Group Size | USD Price | AUD Equivalent | NZD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 to 14 Trekkers | $1249 per person | AUD $1960 | NZD $2075 |
💡 Note: Currency rates may fluctuate. Prices are based on mid-range exchange rates for AUD, NZD etc.
A single room supplement of USD $99 applies for hotel nights in Kathmandu and Pokhara if you prefer private rooms. During the trek, teahouses typically offer twin-sharing rooms, and single occupancy cannot be guaranteed at high altitudes.
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most affordable yet scenic Himalayan adventures. With no need for domestic flights and a compact route, it’s perfect for travelers looking to experience Nepal’s mountains with minimal logistical hassles and a great value.
What’s Included in the Mardi Himal Trek
- 🚐 Airport transfers – pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- 🏨 5 nights hotel accommodation (2 in Kathmandu + 3 in Pokhara, twin-share with breakfast)
- 🚌 Private vehicle transport – Kathmandu ↔ Pokhara and all local transfers
- 🧾 All trekking permits – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) + TIMS card
- 🧭 Experienced, licensed English-speaking trekking guide or trek with Prasan
- 🏔️ 1 porter per two trekkers (max baggage 10kg per person)
- 🛖 6 nights teahouse accommodation (twin-sharing)
- 🍽️ All meals during the trek – breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- 🍛 Welcome dinner in Kathmandu + farewell lunch in Pokhara
- 💊 Group medical kit carried by your guide
- 🚗 All ground transport as per the itinerary
What’s Not Included in the Mardi Himal Trek
- 🛂 Nepal entry visa fee (Visa on arrival available at Kathmandu airport)
- ✈️ International airfare to/from Nepal
- 🥗 Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome/farewell meals)
- 🗺️ Entry fees for optional sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- 🩺 Travel insurance (mandatory – must cover high-altitude trekking & emergency evacuation)
- 💰 Tips for guide and porter (recommended: USD $6–8/day for guide, $4–6/day for porter)
- 🍫 Personal expenses – snacks, drinks, WiFi, laundry, hot showers, charging
- 🧤 Trekking gear and clothing (available to rent or buy in Kathmandu/Pokhara)
- 🏨 Extra hotel nights due to early return, delays, or personal change of plans
- 📋 Any service not mentioned in the “What’s Included” section
Additional Information
The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderately challenging high-altitude journey that requires proper permits, travel insurance, and good preparation. You’ll stay in a mix of cozy teahouses and comfortable city hotels, with all ground transport and daily meals arranged for a hassle-free experience. The trek is accessible by road—no flights required—and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,500m. All necessary permits (ACAP & TIMS) are included, and wellness activities like yoga and meditation enhance your connection with the trail. A valid Nepal visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.
This trek combines natural beauty, local culture, and mindful travel in a safe, fully supported package.
🛖 Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek offers a blend of peaceful teahouse stays in the mountains and comfortable hotels in the cities. During the trek, you’ll stay in locally run teahouses—simple lodges with basic twin-share rooms, hearty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere. Some have attached bathrooms at lower altitudes, while higher villages may have shared facilities.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll enjoy tourist-standard hotels with en-suite bathrooms, breakfast included, and easy access to cafés, gear shops, and local landmarks. This combination ensures both authenticity on the trail and comfort before and after the trek.
🍽️ Food & Drinks
Meals on the Mardi Himal Trek are wholesome, carb-rich, and locally sourced to fuel your body at altitude. At teahouses, expect options like dal bhat (lentils, rice, veg), Tibetan bread, noodles, soups, momos, and pancakes. Breakfasts typically include porridge, eggs, toast, or chapati with tea or coffee.
Drinking water is provided as boiled or filtered. We encourage you to bring a refillable bottle and water purification tablets or a SteriPen for backup. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are widely available with advance notice.
🚐 Transportation & Trail Access
Your Mardi Himal Trek begins with an overland drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a short drive to the trailhead at Kande. After completing the trek at Siding Village, you’ll return to Pokhara by private vehicle. The return to Kathmandu is also by comfortable tourist transport.
No domestic flights are required for this trek, which reduces cost and eliminates the risk of weather-related flight delays. All ground transfers—including airport pickups and local trail access—are fully arranged and included.
🧾 Permits Required
To trek legally and responsibly in the Annapurna region, you’ll need the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): NPR 2,000
Both permits are included in your package and will be handled by your trekking guide. Please carry a few passport-size photos and a copy of your passport for issuance and checkpoints along the trail.
🛂 Nepal Visa Information
Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Fees as of 2025:
- 15 days: USD $30
- 30 days: USD $50
- 90 days: USD $125
You’ll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a visa application form (available at the airport or online), and payment in USD, EUR, GBP, or credit card. For faster processing, bring two passport-size photos.
🩺 Health, Safety & Altitude
The Mardi Himal Trek is moderately challenging and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,500m. While altitude sickness is less common here than on higher treks like EBC, it’s still important to ascend gradually and stay hydrated.
Your guide is trained in basic first aid and altitude sickness response. We follow a “go slow, listen to your body” approach and encourage wellness practices to support your physical and mental state. A group medical kit is carried at all times.
Simple practices to stay healthy on the trail:
- Drink 3–4 liters of water per day
- Avoid alcohol and smoking at altitude
- Eat well and get plenty of rest
- Notify your guide of any discomfort early
🛡️ Travel Insurance (Required)
You must have valid travel insurance to join the Mardi Himal Trek. Your policy must cover:
- Emergency evacuation by helicopter (up to 4,500m)
- High-altitude trekking in Nepal
- Medical treatment & hospitalization
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Baggage loss/theft
Bring both a digital and printed copy of your insurance details and share them with your guide before departure. It’s your safety net—and a necessary part of high-altitude trekking.
🥾 Trek Preparation – Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate-grade trek that does not require any technical climbing skills, making it ideal for beginners and experienced hikers alike. To prepare, it’s recommended to train 4–6 weeks in advance with regular cardio activities such as walking, stair climbing, cycling, or light hiking.
Breaking in your trekking boots beforehand is essential to avoid blisters on the trail. Strengthening your legs and core through yoga, stretching, or bodyweight exercises will improve stamina and balance. Staying well-hydrated and mentally prepared for trekking at high altitudes—up to 4,500 meters—is also key to enjoying the journey safely and comfortably.
💵 Money & Tipping
Once the Mardi Himal Trek begins, there are no ATMs or card payment facilities along the trail—so it’s important to carry enough Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in small denominations for personal expenses like snacks, WiFi, hot showers, drinks, or charging devices. We recommend budgeting around NPR 3,000–3,500 (USD $25–30) per day for extras not covered in the package.
Tipping is customary in Nepal and greatly appreciated by the local trekking staff. A standard guideline is:
- 🧭 Trekking Guide: USD $6–8 per day
- 🏔️ Porter: USD $4–6 per day (shared by two trekkers)
Tips are typically given at the end of the trek as a thank-you for their hard work and support. You can offer the tip in local currency or USD, presented with a smile—it’s a meaningful gesture that directly supports Himalayan communities.
🎒 Essential Packing List
👕 Clothing
- Waterproof trekking boots & camp sandals
- Down jacket & waterproof outer shell
- Fleece/jumper & thermal base layers
- 2–3 trekking pants, 3–4 quick-dry shirts
- Warm hat, gloves, sunhat, neck buff
- Wool socks (2–3 pairs)
🎒 Gear & Essentials
- Daypack (25–35L) + rain cover
- Sleeping bag (-10°C)
- Water bottles or bladder (2L total)
- Headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Toiletries, towel, lip balm, sanitizer
- Power bank & charging cable
- Snacks, meds, water purifier/tablets
- Passport copy + photos
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Mardi Himal Trek is a quiet Himalayan escape that brings you face-to-face with giant peaks, ancient forests, and timeless village life—all without the crowds of more famous routes. It’s a journey of serenity, soul, and self-discovery.
Perfect for trekkers who want a short, scenic, and spiritually enriching adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek offers something far beyond just mountain views—it offers perspective, connection, and peace.
Ready to walk above the clouds? Join us for this unforgettable trek into the hidden heart of the Annapurna region.