Are you ready to explore one of Nepal’s most enchanting and less-traveled trekking routes? The Mardi Himal Trek is a dream come true for adventurers seeking serenity, breathtaking landscapes, and an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Tucked away in the Annapurna region, just east of the famed Annapurna Base Camp, this trek promises an exhilarating week-long journey through pristine forests, charming villages, and panoramic mountain views.
The adventure kicks off in Pokhara, Nepal’s picturesque lake city. With its laid-back charm and stunning Phewa Lake, Pokhara is the perfect starting point to soak in Nepal’s beauty before hitting the trail. From there, you’ll trek through vibrant forests, traverse gentle hills, and follow the Mardi Khola (river) towards higher elevations.
One of the highlights of this trek is the High Camp, which offers magical sunrise and sunset views. Picture yourself standing above the clouds as the first rays of sunlight paint the peaks in hues of gold and pink—moments like these are what make Mardi Himal truly special.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or someone venturing into the Himalayas for the first time, Mardi Himal caters to all fitness levels.
Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) – The Pinnacle of the Trek The Mardi Himal Base Camp is the ultimate highlight of the trek, offering trekkers an awe-inspiring experience with its breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. Standing at 4,500 meters, the base camp offers panoramic vistas of Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993m). The journey to Mardi Himal Base Camp is a challenging but rewarding experience that brings trekkers face-to-face with towering peaks and serene landscapes.
Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m) – A Spectacular Panoramic View The Mardi Himal Viewpoint, located at 4,200m, is a stunning spot offering one of the best panoramic views of the Annapurna range. From this vantage point, you’ll witness an expansive view of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri (8,167m). It’s an unforgettable sight that captures the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas, making it one of the most sought-after views in Nepal.
High Camp (3,550m) – A Perfect Base for the Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp High Camp is a charming stop along the trek that offers some of the best views of the Annapurna and Mardi Himal ranges. Located at 3,550 meters, this area serves as a base for your ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp and provides stunning views of Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). It’s the ideal place to rest and acclimatize before continuing the journey.
Syangboche (3,475m) – A Beautiful Village with Stunning Views The village of Syangboche offers a peaceful retreat amidst lush rhododendron forests. From here, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and the surrounding hills. This stop offers an opportunity to experience the tranquility of the mountains and the beauty of the landscape before heading up toward High Camp.
Australian Base Camp (2,055m) – A Serene Beginning to the Trek Located at 2,055m, Australian Base Camp offers trekkers their first glimpse of the stunning Annapurna range. The trail to Australian Base Camp is relatively gentle, passing through beautiful forested areas with an abundance of wildlife. The camp offers a peaceful and scenic setting, with unobstructed views of the majestic Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and Annapurna peaks.
Mardi Himal Trek – A Perfect Blend of Natural Beauty and Cultural Immersion The Mardi Himal Trek offers an immersive experience that combines stunning landscapes with a chance to explore the rich culture of the local communities. Along the trail, you will pass through traditional Gurung villages like Landruk (1,565m) and Syauli Bazaar, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. The trek also takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and rivers, providing an incredible variety of landscapes.
Stunning Mountain Views: Throughout the trek, you’ll be treated to spectacular vistas of some of the most iconic peaks in the Annapurna region, including:
- Mardi Himal Base Camp: Views of Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993m).
- Mardi Himal Viewpoint: Expansive views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri (8,167m).
- High Camp: Views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
- Syangboche: Panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding hills.
- Australian Base Camp: First views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
The Mardi Himal Trek offers an incredible blend of Himalayan adventure, cultural exploration, and natural beauty. With views of towering peaks, lush forests, and charming villages, this trek provides a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, Mardi Himal is a trek that will leave you with memories of a lifetime.
Arrival in Kathmandu: Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our Hakuna Matata representative will greet you with a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. In the evening, join a pre-trek briefing with your guide to discuss the adventure ahead. Relax and explore the lively streets of Thamel at your leisure.
Altitude: 1300m
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Fly to Pokhara & Drive to Kande and Trek to Australian Base Camp: Take an early morning flight to Pokhara and drive for about 1 hour to Kande, the starting point of your trek. Begin trekking through lush green hills and forests, enjoying the serene trail to Australian Base Camp. Stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and other peaks await you here.
Altitude: 2055m
Duration: 3 hrs (trek), 1 hr (drive)
Accommodation: Tea House
Trek to Forest Camp: After breakfast, continue trekking through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests toward Forest Camp. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of wildlife, streams, and charming villages. The peaceful forest trail provides an immersive natural experience.
Altitude: 2500m
Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Trek to High Camp: Begin the day with a trek toward High Camp, passing through lush rhododendron forests and reaching Badal Danda (Cloudy Hill) at 3210m. The trail transitions to open pastures with incredible mountain views. High Camp provides a perfect base for the journey to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Altitude: 3550m
Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to Badal Danda: Start early for the highlight of the trek—Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail ascends to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4200m), offering panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Continue to the base camp (4500m) for breathtaking scenery. After soaking in the views, return to Badal Danda for an overnight stay.
Altitude: 4500m (Base Camp), 3210m (Badal Danda)
Duration: 7-8 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Trek to Landruk: Descend through forests and terraced fields to the Gurung village of Landruk. Enjoy the hospitality of the locals and explore their rich cultural heritage. The stunning scenery and warm welcome make this a memorable stop.
Altitude: 1565m
Duration: 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Tea House
Trek to Syauli Bazaar & Drive back to Pokhara: On the final day of trekking, descend to Syauli Bazaar. The trail offers picturesque views and tranquil surroundings. From Syauli Bazaar, take a drive back to Pokhara, where you can relax and reflect on your adventure by Phewa Lake.
Altitude: 820m
Duration: 3 hrs (trek), 2 hrs (drive)
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Drive Back to Kathmandu and Farewell Dinner: Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus (7-8 hrs drive) or opt for a 30-minute flight (at an additional cost). In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner to celebrate your successful trek and the memories created along the way.
Altitude: 1300m
Duration: 7-8 hrs (drive) or 30 min (flight)
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Final Departure
Your incredible Mardi Himal Trek concludes today. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight. Depart with beautiful memories and the promise of more adventures in Nepal.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- 3 star hotel stay in Kathmandu on a BB basis.
- Trekking Permits and necessary documents required for the trek.
- Domestic Flights and Ground Transportation during the trek.
- Accommodation: A simple twin bedroom shared with fellow trekkers. Single rooms can be available upon the request and availability of room in the teahouse.
- Meals: 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) plus a hot beverage of any kind available, with the meals.
- Team members: Experienced guide and support staffs.
- Direct contribution to support childrens’ education in remote Upper Dolpa Region of Nepal through Himalayan Development Initiative.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa and international flights.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Excess baggage charge at the domestic airport (15-20)kg being the limit.
- Personal expenses including bar bills, laundry, battery charging, internet use, hotel showers, local products, bottled water, cold drinks, etc.
- Personal Trekking Gear.
- Tips for the guides and the crew members.
- Delays and unforeseen costs- extra costs due to flight cancellations, bad weather, or political disturbances.
- Emergency Helicopter rescue or Medical Evacuation Costs.
- What is not included is excluded.
FAQs
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail involves gradual ascents through forests and villages, with the final push to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) being more challenging due to higher altitudes. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are key to enjoying the trek.
The standard Mardi Himal Trek takes about 7–9 days, including travel time from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back. The itinerary includes rest days for acclimatization and exploration of scenic viewpoints like High Camp and Mardi Himal Viewpoint.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and stunning mountain views, making it ideal for trekking through the lush forests and high-altitude landscapes.
Yes, you need two permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) Card
These permits ensure safe trekking practices and support conservation efforts in the region.
Accommodation consists of basic tea houses and lodges in villages like Australian Base Camp, Forest Camp, and High Camp. Trekkers can expect simple yet cozy rooms and communal dining areas with meals prepared by local hosts.
Key highlights include:
- Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m): Panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
- High Camp (3,550m): Stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna range.
- Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m): Expansive vistas of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
- Cultural immersion: Interaction with locals in traditional Gurung villages like Landruk and Syauli Bazaar.
- Lush forests: Rhododendron-filled trails and diverse wildlife sightings.
Yes! Machhapuchhre (6,993m), one of Nepal’s most iconic peaks, dominates the skyline throughout the trek. You’ll get breathtaking views of this sacred peak from High Camp, Mardi Himal Viewpoint, and other vantage points along the trail.
Yes, the trek is relatively easy and offers shorter daily hikes, making it suitable for families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities. However, younger kids may find the higher-altitude sections challenging.
The Mardi Himal Trek stands out for its off-the-beaten-path charm, fewer crowds, and pristine natural beauty. Unlike more popular treks like Everest or Annapurna Circuit, it offers solitude and a peaceful experience amidst lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and towering peaks.
Absolutely! The trek passes through traditional Gurung villages like Landruk and Syauli Bazaar, where you can interact with locals, learn about their customs, and witness their daily routines. The warm hospitality of the villagers adds a cultural richness to the journey.
