Mardi Himal trek is one of the best trek for those who are seeking for short and less crowded. Every time a new trekking location is mentioned among the myriad others that lead into and out of the breathtaking Annapurna range, a slew of inquiries follow. What distinguishes this place from other travel destinations? The Mardi Himal walk, to start with, is unquestionably one of the best short treks and includes everything a perfect trek should have.
Off-the-beaten-path destinations, lively hamlets, charming, peaceful footpaths, and the Himalayas in abundance. This expedition will take you south of the magnificent Annapurna I, across the foothills of the Annapurna Range (8,091m).The Gurung people live in this little-traveled region, and their culture and distinctive way of life reflect this sense of authenticity and exploration. The Mardi Himal Base Camp, one of the most sought-after locations for Himalayan views, is the perfect place to take in the breathtaking splendor of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges.
Our journey across the Himalayas starts with a pleasant drive to the charming city of Pokhara. This beautiful city, which is referred to as the entrance to Annapurna, draws travelers from all over the world during any time of year. Before moving on, we will tour the World Peace Pagoda and Fewa Lake. The following day, we travel through the verdant woodlands to reach Kande.
Our journey officially starts as we proceed for Forest Camp on our first night of travel. The trek ascends through gorgeous rivers and spectacular waterfalls to reach the Mardi High Camp, passing the Low Camp along the way. The journey is through lush green forests decorated with rhododendron blossoming in colours of red, white, and pink.
We trek to the Upper viewpoint in the morning, where we can see the Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Mardi Himal (6,687m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and many more Himalayan peaks. Before concluding our adventure back at Pokhara, we descend into Siding and take some time to take in the Himalayan splendor. The journey is over once you board a flight that returns you to Kathmandu.
Here at Access The Asia Treks share your passion for travel and are always up for a quick adventure, especially if it takes place in the Annapurna Region. You may enjoy this incredible experience worry-free thanks to itineraries designed with each individual in mind and knowledgeable guides. You get the best of both worlds since we offer the best bargains at reasonable prices.
Stunning panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Mardi Himal
One of Nepal’s best short and less-crowded treks
Peaceful trails away from the busy Annapurna Base Camp route
Ideal trek for those seeking nature, solitude, and adventure
Walk through lush rhododendron and oak forests
Beautiful bamboo forests and alpine landscapes
Gradual change from green hills to high alpine terrain
Colorful forests during spring (March–April)
Crystal-clear mountain views in autumn (September–November)
Scenic ridgeline walks with dramatic drop-offs
Sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna range
Snow-covered landscapes in late autumn and early winter
Well-marked yet quiet trekking trail
Ideal for travelers with limited time in Nepal
Perfect acclimatization profile with gradual altitude gain
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft), a representative from Access the Asia Treks will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, offers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage, colorful streets, and traditional culture.
After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or take a short walk around the neighborhood to get your first taste of Nepal.
After breakfast, you are ready for the journey from Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) either by road or by air. By road, the distance is approximately 200 km, and the drive typically takes around 6–8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions, offering scenic views of rivers, hills, and rural landscapes along the way.
Alternatively, a quick flight from Tribhuvan International Airport to Pokhara Airport takes about 25–30 minutes, providing a fast and convenient option for those looking to save time.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, guests are transferred to a standard hotel with comfortable rooms and essential amenities to rest and prepare for their trekking adventure.
Driving Distance: Approximately 200 km
Driving Duration: Around 6–8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic
Flight Duration: Approximately 25–30 minutes
Accommodation: Standard hotel in Pokhara
The journey begins with a drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) to Kande (1,770m / 5,807ft), which takes approximately 1–1.5 hours along scenic mountain roads. The route passes through small villages, terraced fields, and lush green landscapes, providing a picturesque introduction to the Annapurna region. Upon arrival in Kande, trekkers begin the ascent toward Forest Camp, following well-marked trails surrounded by dense rhododendron and oak forests.
The trek from Kande to Forest Camp (2,500m / 8,202ft) takes about 4–5 hours, gradually climbing through serene landscapes with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. Forest Camp offers cozy teahouse accommodation, warm meals, and a peaceful setting, making it an ideal first stop to rest and acclimatize before continuing the Mardi Himal trek.
Driving Distance: Approximately 25 km
Driving Duration: Around 1–1.5 hours
Trekking Duration: 4–5 hours from Kande to Forest Camp
Accommodation: Teahouse at Forest Camp
The trek from Forest Camp (2,500m / 8,202ft) to Low Camp (2,970m / 9,744ft) is a moderate climb through dense rhododendron and oak forests, gradually opening up to alpine meadows as you gain altitude. Along the way, trekkers are treated to increasingly spectacular views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The journey typically takes 3–4 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.
Low Camp (2,970m / 9,744ft) offers comfortable teahouse accommodation with warm meals and panoramic mountain views, providing an ideal resting spot to acclimatize and prepare for the ascent to High Camp the following day.
Trekking Distance: Approximately 6 km
Trekking Duration: 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse at Low Camp
The trek from Low Camp (2,970m / 9,744ft) to High Camp (3,550m / 11,646ft) is a steeper and more challenging climb, gradually leaving behind the forested trails for open alpine terrain. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking, unobstructed views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal, making each step a memorable experience. The trek usually takes 4–5 hours, allowing time for short breaks to enjoy the scenery and acclimatize properly.
High Camp (3,550m / 11,646ft) provides cozy teahouse accommodation, warm meals, and stunning mountain vistas, serving as the perfect base to rest before the final ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp the next day.
Trekking Distance: Approximately 5 km
Trekking Duration: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse at High Camp
From High Camp (3,550m / 11,646ft), trekkers hike up to the Upper View Point (4,500m / 14,764ft), a rewarding summit that offers spectacular 360-degree panoramas of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. The hike is moderately challenging, with some steeper sections, but the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile. The round trip typically takes 4–5 hours, allowing enough time for photography and to soak in the high-altitude alpine environment.
After enjoying the incredible views, trekkers descend back to High Camp (3,550m / 11,646ft), where they rest and enjoy comfortable teahouse accommodation with warm meals, preparing for the trek back down the following day.
Trekking Distance: Approximately 6 km round trip
Trekking Duration: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse at High Camp
The trek from High Camp (3,550m / 11,646ft) to Siding Village (1,750m / 5,741ft) is a long but scenic descent through alpine meadows, forests, and terraced farmland. As you descend, the vegetation gradually changes from alpine shrubs to lush subtropical forests, offering a refreshing contrast and varied landscapes along the way. The trek typically takes 5–6 hours, with several opportunities to pause, enjoy the views, and interact with locals in the villages.
Upon arrival in Siding Village (1,750m / 5,741ft), trekkers are accommodated in a local teahouse, where warm meals and a comfortable resting environment await. This marks a peaceful stop to relax after a day of descent and prepare for the continuation of the Mardi Himal trek toward the trail’s end.
Trekking Distance: Approximately 13 km
Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse in Siding Village
After completing the trek, travelers drive from Siding Village (1,750m / 5,741ft) to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft), a scenic route of about 35 km that typically takes 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The drive winds through picturesque hills, terraced fields, and small villages, providing a final glimpse of the Annapurna region’s natural beauty.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, guests check into a standard hotel with comfortable rooms and essential amenities, offering a relaxing environment to rest and refresh after the trek. Pokhara’s lakeside setting provides an ideal backdrop to unwind and celebrate the successful completion of the Mardi Himal adventure.
Driving Distance: Approximately 35 km
Driving Duration: Around 1.5–2 hours, depending on road conditions
Accommodation: Standard hotel in Pokhara
Travelers can drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) along a scenic 200 km route that typically takes 6–8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey passes through rivers, hills, and rural villages, offering beautiful views of the mid-hills of Nepal and an opportunity to experience the country’s natural and cultural landscapes.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, guests are transferred to a standard hotel with comfortable rooms and essential amenities, providing a relaxing environment to rest and prepare for onward travel or departure after the trek.
For those looking to save time, a short flight from Pokhara Airport to Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu takes around 25–30 minutes and provides aerial views of the Annapurna and Langtang ranges.
Driving Distance: Approximately 200 km
Driving Duration: Around 6–8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions
Accommodation: Standard hotel in Kathmandu
On the final day of the trip, you are transferred from their hotel in Kathmandu to Tribhuvan International Airport. You should arrive at the airport at least 2–3 hours prior to departure to complete check-in and immigration formalities.
This concludes the memorable journey through Nepal’s majestic mountains, cultural heritage, and vibrant landscapes, leaving lasting memories of the Annapurna and Mardi Himal regions.
One of the most beautiful and difficult trekking locations in the world is the Annapurna Region To ensure your safety, comfort, and pleasure during your trek, the appropriate gear is crucial. When trekking in the Annapurna Region you should bring the following items, among others:
Access the Asia Treks offers its customers a thorough packing list, equipment rental choices, and guidance on the best supplies for their trekking requirements. In order to complete their trek to the Mardi himal trek securely and comfortably, we want to make sure that our clients have all the required supplies.
To confirm you’re booking with Access the Asia Treks, payment for the selected trek can be made via bank transfer. Please ensure that all applicable bank charges, including transfer fees or intermediary bank fees, are covered by you at the time of payment. This will help us receive the full amount without any deduction.
Once the payment is sent, kindly provide us with the transaction details or remittance slip for verification.
If you experience any issues during the payment process or require assistance of any kind, please feel free to contact us immediately. We are always available to support you and ensure a smooth and reliable booking experience.
For your convenience, we provide the option to hire trekking gear in Nepal. This includes essential items such as:
We recommend renting gear locally only if you do not already own quality trekking equipment, as renting ensures reliable and well-maintained gear suited for Nepal’s conditions.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, please make sure you are fully prepared before departure:
Being fully equipped and prepared ensures a comfortable, safe, and memorable trekking experience in Nepal.
We offer three types of trekking packages to suit your preferences and budget:
All our packages are flexible and customizable, allowing you to tailor your trek according to your personal preferences, schedule, and interests.
Access the Asia Treks provides you the full information prior to the trek. Our representatives are always standby to support you in every situation from the beginning to the final departure. We try our best to make you feel like home with supportive staffs and friendly environment.
You can get VISA on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport; or online in advance through Nepal’s Department of Immigration website (for a pre-arrival application).
You will need:
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you are warmly welcomed by a representative from Access the Asia Treks highlighting the Nepali tradition. You are then escorted to the hotel, where you can take some time to rest and settle in after your journey to Nepal.
Depending on your flight’s arrival time, the trip briefing will be conducted either the same day or the following day.
You are provided with an experienced leader who can lead you to your destination with proper supervision and care. You are taken care of your comfortable stay and day to day supervision of your balanced diet, water intake, gradual ascend and proper sleep.
As Altitude Sickness is most probable in this region, thus, proper acclimatization and day to day strategy is necessary which is taken into proper consideration from our staffs.
During emergency situation, evacuation procedure is also made standby and your travel insurance must be provided before the trek which must cover the higher altitude evacuation with medical expenses.
Access the Asia Treks provides reliable and comfortable transportation facilities suitable to the category of your trekking package. Transportation is arranged on either a private or sharing basis, depending on the selected itinerary and service chosen.
Whether traveling on a private or sharing basis, Access the Asia Treks ensures smooth transfers between airports (Private only), cities (Private only), and trekking trailheads (Private or Sharing) according to your package category.
Note: For transportation facilities, you can consult with our staffs for more information.
At Access the Asia Treks, we are committed and dedicated to promoting eco-friendly and responsible trekking practices that preserve the natural environment and support local communities.
Our staffs are well trained and provided with proper training for the responsible trekking. Our treks are designed to make lesser environmental impact while supporting cultural respect and sustainability. Cultural immersion, healthy participation in community activities and respecting their cultural and natural values are our priorities.
We encourage the “Leave No Trace” principle by reducing waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and ensuring proper disposal of all non-biodegradable materials. We look forward to creating the trekking campaigns supporting the nature and preserving its values for future. We work closely with local guides, porters, and communities to support the local economy and preserve traditional lifestyles.
Our trekking routes prioritize conservation areas, and we strictly follow government and park regulations to protect wildlife, forests, and fragile mountain ecosystems. We are always committed in respecting the laws to promote the Government and local people initiation to save the nature.
By choosing eco-friendly trekking with us, you can contribute to environmental preservation while enjoying an authentic and responsible Himalayan adventure.
Access the Asia Treks provides necessary information and comprehensive help regarding your stay in Nepal. Our professional dedicated team is committed to assisting you from your planning to the competion of the trek.
Pre-Trip Support: Before your trek begins, our staff offers personalized details to assist you choose the most suitable trekking package based on your interests, fitness level, and travel time frame.
Transportation & Accommodation: We manage and assist you with arranging transportation to and from trekking starting points, whether on a private or sharing basis, according to your package category. As per your interest and service needed, our team also provides sufficient information regarding accommodation options.
On-Trek Guidance & Safety: After your arrival, we will provide you the trek briefing details for your assurance regarding your trek information, gears and overall details. During the trek, our experienced leader will support you who is government-licensed and well-trained porters. Our leaders provide daily briefings on trekking distances, altitude changes, weather conditions, and safety measures which play the vital role for you to cope up with the altitude minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Monitoring regarding your daily food intake, water intake, gradual ascend, physical and mental condition along with proper sleep, and emergency response coordination are integral parts of our service.
Emergency & Communication Support: In case of emergencies, we provide 24/7 support and coordination for medical assistance or evacuation services when required. We assist you to manage the travel insurance accordingly.
Post-Trek Assistance: After completion of the trek, we assist you with various options as per your feasibility. We arrange your return transportation, travel extensions, sightseeing arrangements, and onward travel plans. We also welcome feedback to continuously improve our services.
For further details or specific inquiries regarding your trekking package, our knowledgeable staff is always available to assist you.
During the official trek briefing, our guide or trek leader will cover all essential details to ensure you are fully prepared and informed. The briefing typically includes:
Trek Itinerary Overvieww
Day-to-day details of the trek and it makes you your vision clear before the trek.
Average trek duration, daily walking hours and the altitude profile to make you understand about the various situations during the trek.
Significant spots and highlights of the trek for you to encounter during the trek.
Safety & Altitude Guidelines
Proper information about the altitude sickness, symptoms and preventive measures. You are introduced with your trek guide so that you feel comfortable to share your opinions regarding it.
Acclimatization days and rest days during the trek for your adaptation with the altitude and the surrounding. This minimizes the risk of Altitude sickness.
You need the travel insurance which covers your emergency evacuation and medical expenses from the higher altitude.
Necessity of oxygen cylinder or portable altitude chambers whenever necessary during the trek or climbing or expedition.
Accommodation & Meals
The information related to mountain accommodation regarding your stay, food, amenities, room facilities, hot water and local tradition.
Meal plans, safe food practices, and dietary options
Packing & Gear Check
We will re-check all your personal gear and clothing whether they match the requirement for the trek or not. If not, we will help you to buy or hire as per the situation.
Recommendations for any missing or optional items that may be rented or purchased in Kathmandu
Weather Conditions & Trail Expectations
Typical weather patterns during your trekking season
Estimated temperatures at different elevations
Terrain details and trekking difficulty levels
Team Introduction
Introduction to the trek leader, assistant guides, and porters
Roles and responsibilities of each team member
Porter weight limits and packing guidelines
Communication & Connectivity
Availability of Wi-Fi, charging facilities, and mobile network
Recommended SIM cards (if needed)
Depending upon the necessity of the satellite phones and emergency contact, we will provide you all the information regarding it.
Insurance & Documentation Check
Verification of travel and rescue insurance
Passport copies, permits, and TIMS/park entry requirements
Final Question & Answer Session
Time for you to clarify doubts
Last-minute advice before departure
Confirmation of departure time for the following day
The Mardi Himal Trek is a popular choice for hikers looking for a less crowded and off-the-beaten-path Annapurna adventure. The Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Mardi Himal, is seen from here. The trail passes through a variety of scenery, including lush forests, rhododendron groves, and high alpine meadows. It delivers a shorter yet satisfying trekking experience, lasting 6 to 9 days. The Mardi Himal Trek is a superb opportunity to see the beauty of the Himalayas in a more private environment, thanks to the calm surroundings, tranquility, and unique cultural exchanges with Gurung communities.
The optimum seasons to go on the Mardi Himal Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months have the best weather and trail conditions for trekking in the area. The weather is nice in the spring, with clear skies and blossoming rhododendron woods giving vibrant hues to the environment. Autumn delivers clear skies, good visibility, and mild temperatures, allowing for breathtaking vistas of the neighboring peaks. With warm daytime temperatures and chilly nights, both seasons offer a pleasant trekking experience. Winter (December to February) can be very cold with significant snowfall, and the monsoon season (June to August) brings frequent rain showers, making them less suitable for the Mardi Himal Trek.
Yes, there are customizing possibilities for the Mardi Himal Trek. Access the Asia Treks provides flexible itineraries that can be adjusted to your own choices and needs. You can discuss the duration, certain places or areas you wish to see, and the amount of difficulty you are comfortable with our experts. Adjusting the amount of days, adding side visits to neighboring locations, inserting rest days for acclimatization, or having cultural activities along the road are all options for customization. You can construct a personalized Mardi Himal Trek that suits your interests and demands by conveying your preferences and collaborating with Access the Asia Treks.
The chance to suffer from altitude sickness during the Annapurna Short Trek is low. The highest point reached on this walk is normally around 3,210 meters (10,531 feet) at Poon Hill, which is not considered a dangerously high height. Individual sensitivity to altitude sickness varies, therefore it’s critical to be aware of the symptoms and take the required precautions. It is best to ascend gently, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches or dizziness emerge, it is best to descend to a lower altitude and rest until the symptoms pass. In terms of altitude sickness, the Annapurna Short walk is considered a rather safe walk. To ensure a safe and happy trekking experience, be prepared, keep a sensible pace, and pay attention to your body’s signals.
| No. of People | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 | USD $700 |
| 2-3 | USD $650 |
| 4-8 | USD $600 |
| 10-15 | USD $550 |