05 Days Mardi Himal Trek
Trip Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a soul-stirring adventure that lifts you above the clouds and immerses you in the pure beauty of the Nepal Himalayas. With its highest point reaching 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), this trek offers breathtaking views of some of the most iconic peaks in the Annapurna Range, including Annapurna South, the stunning Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. For those on a gap year adventure, this trek is nothing short of transformative.
Relatively unexplored compared to Nepal's more famous trekking routes, the Mardi Himal trek offers the perfect escape from the crowds. It's a quieter, more intimate journey where you can truly connect with nature, immerse yourself in local cultures, and feel the peace of the Himalayas. If you're seeking a challenge that takes you higher in less time, this trek is ideal—offering all the grandeur of the mountains without the grueling demands of longer treks.
The trail is a beautiful journey through Nepal's diverse landscapes, from vibrant villages alive with culture to dense forests teeming with wildlife. As you ascend, the landscape shifts to dramatic alpine meadows, where the air grows crisp and the only sounds are the wind and the distant calls of birds. It’s a peaceful reprieve from the everyday—a place where you can slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
One of the most special things about the Mardi Himal Trek is the way it blends nature and culture. As you pass through traditional villages and encounter Buddhist influences along the way, you'll not only be amazed by the stunning scenery but also by the kindness and warmth of the local people. This is more than a trek; it's an opportunity to experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.
And then, there are the views. As you climb higher, the mountains begin to feel closer, and the world beneath you seems to fade away. Mardi Himal offers a 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurnaand Machhapuchhre—a panorama that will leave you breathless. Each step takes you further into the heart of the Himalayas, where the vastness and beauty of the landscape are humbling and inspiring.
For anyone on a gap year in Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek is an opportunity to challenge yourself physically, connect with the natural world, and immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience. It’s a trek that doesn’t just take you to a destination—it opens your heart to the journey itself. The peace and serenity of the mountains, the joy of walking through quaint villages, and the thrill of seeing the world from such a high perspective will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
If you’re looking for a trek that offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, the Mardi Himal Trekshould be at the top of your list for a gap year experience. It’s a trek that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the beauty of Nepal on a level that few experiences can offer.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Here are the key highlights of this remarkable trek:
- Stunning Mountain Views
- Relatively Unexplored and Less Crowded
- Cultural Immersion
- Diverse Landscapes
- Wildlife and Nature
- Mardi Himal Base Camp
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
- Ideal for Gap Year Adventures
- Connection with Nature
Trip Itinerary
Your Mardi Himal journey begins with a peaceful drive from Pokhara to Phedi, a small village at the base of the hills. As you pass through green valleys and terraced fields, the Annapurna mountains in the distance whisper promises of the adventure to come.
From Phedi, you begin your trek, gradually making your way up to Pothana (1,900 meters / 6,234 feet). The trail is a quiet introduction to the mountains—winding through dense forests, with the air growing crisp and fresh. The sounds of birds and the rhythm of your footsteps create a calming soundtrack as you leave the world behind.
With each step, the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the surrounding peaks begin to emerge, growing ever more majestic. Reaching Pothana, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the Annapurna range, the snow-capped peaks bathed in a golden glow. It’s the perfect place to pause, take it all in, and reflect on the journey just beginning.
In this peaceful village, surrounded by towering mountains and the quiet hum of nature, you feel a deep sense of connection to the land. Tonight, as the stars fill the sky, you know this is just the start of an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
Leaving Pothana (1,900 meters / 6,234 feet), you begin your ascent to Forest Camp (2,500 meters / 8,200 feet), winding through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. The trail, part of the Eco Trail, provides a peaceful and eco-conscious path that allows you to immerse yourself in nature while minimizing environmental impact.
As you climb, the air grows fresher, and the sounds of wildlife surround you. Glimpses of the stunning Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and other Annapurna peaks begin to appear, adding to the sense of wonder. By the time you reach Forest Camp, you’ll be surrounded by the quiet beauty of the forest and the mountains, feeling a deep sense of connection with the natural world.
Leaving Forest Camp (2,500 meters / 8,200 feet) behind, you begin your ascent towards High Camp (3,700 meters / 12,140 feet), where the landscape shifts dramatically. The trail becomes steeper, taking you through alpine meadows and sparse forests as you climb higher into the Himalayas. With each step, the air grows thinner, and you can feel the altitude, but the promise of the incredible views ahead keeps you motivated.
As you ascend, the surrounding Machhapuchhre and Annapurna peaks become more imposing, their grandeur growing as you climb above the tree line and into the open, wind-swept slopes. The terrain is rugged, but the experience is exhilarating, with each moment offering more breathtaking vistas.
By the time you reach High Camp, you’re well above the clouds, with panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range spread out before you. The world below seems distant, and the crisp mountain air fills your lungs as you take in the stunning sight of the towering peaks all around you. It’s a humbling experience, standing on the edge of the sky, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
At High Camp, you’ll be one step closer to the Mardi Himal summit, but for now, it’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and appreciate the majesty of the mountains.
From High Camp (3,700 meters / 12,140 feet), you embark on the final push to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters / 14,764 feet). The trail is steep and challenging, but the reward is beyond worth it. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into a stark, alpine world, with rocky paths and scattered snow. The higher you climb, the more dramatic the views become, with the surrounding Annapurna peaks towering overhead.
When you finally reach Mardi Himal Base Camp, the feeling is indescribable. Standing at the foot of Mardi Himal—the peak that gives this trek its name—you are surrounded by towering, snow-capped giants. The view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range is awe-inspiring, a perfect 360-degree panorama that feels like you’re standing on top of the world.
After soaking in the grandeur of the Himalayas, you begin your descent to Low Camp (2,970 meters / 9,744 feet), where the landscape softens into lush greenery and the air feels warmer. The descent is quicker but no less beautiful, offering new perspectives of the mountains and valleys you’ve just conquered.
The journey from Mardi Himal Base Camp back to Low Camp is a reminder of the raw beauty and challenge of the Himalayas—a trek that brings you face-to-face with some of the most stunning landscapes on earth.
The journey from Low Camp to Siding offers a peaceful descent, where the mountain air softens, and the landscapes change from alpine to lush greenery. Walking through terraced fields and small villages, you’ll feel a deep connection to rural Nepal. Siding, a traditional village, is a beautiful contrast to the high-altitude wilderness you’ve just left, with its simple lifestyle and friendly, welcoming people.
After soaking in the village atmosphere, you’ll catch a local bus back to Pokhara. The ride is a chance to experience Nepal’s vibrant countryside—bumpy roads, colorful markets, and glimpses of daily life. The further you travel, the more you’ll realize how much the trek has changed you, how it’s made you appreciate the quieter moments and the beauty in the everyday.
For those on a gap year adventure, this trek is more than just reaching a destination—it’s about embracing the culture, nature, and personal growth along the way. Returning to Pokhara, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories, a deeper connection to Nepal, and a sense of accomplishment that will last long after the journey ends.
What's Included
Included
- Tea House accommodation with standard meals
- Pokhara Lakeside - Nayapul - Pokhara Lakeside
- Experienced, English-speaking trek leader. For groups over 8, there will also be an assistant guide.
- Porter service: 2 trekkers share 1 porter (max 18 kg per porter, or 9 kg per trekker)
- Covering costs for guides and porters, including wages, meals, insurance, lodging, transportation, flights, and gear.
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water.
- T shirt
- Upon request we can provide duffle bag
- Sleeping bag if required
- Assistance in case of health emergencies (covered by your travel insurance).
- Basic First-aid-kit
- TIMS and Annapurna conservation permit fees.
- All government, local taxes, and official fees.
Excluded
- Any bar bills (alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and cold drinks), cigarettes, client’s personal insurance and any kind of unforeseen expenses.
- Natural Calamities beyond our control and expenses incurred during rescue services.
- Comprehensive Travel/Medical Insurance that covers heli rescue
- Nepal Visa fees
- International Flights
- Personal expenses like shopping, snacks, bottled water, tea/coffee, cold drinks, hot showers, alcohol, Wi-Fi, phone calls, battery charging, extra porters, etc.
- Personal clothing and gear
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended)
- Any other costs or expenses not mentioned in the 'What's Included in 12 Days EBC Trekking Package
- All stay and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the trek
- Daily snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruit
- Down Jacket
- Hiking boots
- Sun Glasses / Sun Hat
- Single Supplementary cost
Optional Service
- T shirt
- Upon request we can provide duffle bag
- Sleeping bag if required
- Trekking Permit
- Trekking Information Management System (TIMS)
- Price of Entrance Fee
- 15 Days Advance Booking required
- Down Jacket
- Hiking boots
- Sun Glasses / Sun Hat
FAQS
What is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a scenic trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area that leads you to Mardi Himal Base Camp at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,763 feet). Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna range, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli while hiking through picturesque rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages.
This trek is ideal for those who want a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience, away from the crowds of more popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp or the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Despite its moderate difficulty, it offers some of the best panoramic mountain views in Nepal.
How Do I Get to Mardi Himal Trek?
Step 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital. From Kathmandu, you can reach Pokhara by:
- Flight: A quick 25-minute flight (recommended for those short on time).
- Tourist Bus: A scenic 6-8 hour drive offering views of rivers, valleys, and terraced fields.
- Private Vehicle: A more comfortable and direct way, though a bit more expensive.
Step 2: Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Starting Point
- The trek starts from Kande, a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara.
From Kande, trek through Pothana, Deurali, and Forest Camp, all the way up to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
When is the Best Time to Trek to Mardi Himal?
The best time to trek Mardi Himal is during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. Here’s why:
- Spring (March to May):
- Temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C in lower elevations.
- The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding an extra layer of beauty to the trek.
- Perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
- Autumn (September to November):
- Clear skies, crisp air, and excellent visibility.
- Temperatures range between 10°C and 15°C in lower altitudes, and it gets colder as you ascend.
- This is the most popular time for trekkers, offering stunning mountain views.
- Winter (December to February):
- Fewer tourists, but colder temperatures, especially at higher elevations (down to -5°C or lower).
- Snow may be encountered at higher altitudes, creating a serene winter wonderland.
- Monsoon (June to August):
- The wettest time of the year, with heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and higher risks of landslides. Not recommended.
What Permits Do I Need for Mardi Himal Trek?
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Cost: NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals
- Required to enter the Annapurna region.
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card
- Cost: NPR 2,000 for independent trekkers
- Helps authorities monitor trekkers' safety.
Both permits can be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu at the relevant permit offices.
How Difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for trekkers with basic fitness. However, it's important to understand the key challenges:
- Duration: The trek usually takes 5 to 6 days.
- Altitude: The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters / 14,763 feet), which can pose a slight risk of Altitude Sickness. However, because the trek does not go above 5,000 meters, it's less risky than other high-altitude treks.
- Terrain: You’ll trek through varying terrains, including rocky trails, forests, and alpine meadows, with some steep ascents. The trail is not as tough as Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, but it requires endurance.
What Accommodations Can I Expect?
On the Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll find teahouses along the way. These offer basic but cozy accommodations with:
- Rooms: Simple, with a bed and a blanket. Rooms can get chilly at higher altitudes, so bring a sleeping bag if you're sensitive to cold.
- Bathrooms: Shared facilities (typically squat toilets), but some teahouses offer Western-style toilets at higher altitudes.
- Meals: The teahouses serve hearty meals like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, and Tibetan bread. Basic Western dishes like pasta, eggs, and pancakes are also available.
What Should I Pack for Mardi Himal Trek?
Here’s a packing list for your Mardi Himal Trek to ensure you're prepared:
- Clothing:
- Lightweight trekking clothes (moisture-wicking shirts, pants, socks)
- Down jacket for warmth
- Waterproof jacket (for rainy weather)
- Trekking boots with good grip
- Hat, gloves, and sunglasses for sun protection
- Thermal wear for the evenings (it can get cold at night)
- Essentials:
- Daypack
- Water bottle (carry enough water to stay hydrated)
- Snacks like energy bars, nuts, etc.
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- First Aid:
- Basic first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, painkillers, altitude sickness tablets, etc.)
Is Mardi Himal Trek Suitable for Beginners?
Yes! The Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for beginners who are in good physical condition. While it does involve some steep ascents, the trek is not overly challenging, making it ideal for those who want a manageable yet rewarding trek. As always, a few weeks of physical preparation and some basic trekking experience will help.
How Long Does the Mardi Himal Trek Take?
The trek typically takes 5-6 days, with each day involving about 4-7 hours of trekking. The trek can be customized depending on your pace and how much time you want to spend at each destination.
Happy Customer's
Juan Gabriel Silva
ArgentinaNamaste! Dear one This trip has been the dream that I have been planning for a long time. I always wanted to contribute from the professional perspective while also immerging myself in the culture and nature of this unique region. Since childhood my goal has been to train as a doctor to help others. As I progressed through my studies my desire to heal the sick without expecting anything in turn, along with a deeper understanding of society and needs. The love for nature is a universal thing human instinct, and I am no exception. Visiting the mountains of Nepal, one of the world's most inspiring place. Amond the tallest peak the landscapes seem to touch the soul of those who experience this. In conclusion, this journey has been truly unique term. Every place in the world offers beautiful memories but in Nepal, I discovered a different kind of mystery. Its culture so different from my own religion and society left me with lots of memories.
Nov 06, 2024 | Medical Internship Program in Nepal
Miguel Ángel
Pamplona, SpainNamaste! I am very grateful and I felt so lucky to for living this experience. I have known Nepal really. your culture, your food your way of living and it’s been only two weeks a very short period but I will come back for sure. And I must say that everybody has treated me so kindly, so good, specially of course in this house and hospital. Thanks, a lot to Sushi, Prakash, Shreejaya (and sorry if I had not written your names properly..) and of course to Didi who has always been so kind and generous. Thank you so much.
Oct 26, 2024 | Volunteer in Nepal | Teach, Explore, and Make a Difference
Nicolas Peter
FranceNamaste! My departure is approaching only a few hours left to spend in Nepal and what can I say about this experience! When I decided this internship in Nepal, I was both excited and stressed by the unknown of a country more than 7000 km from home. But this stress quickly dissipated when I arrived in Nepal and met the wonderful people who are the vol Nepal volunteers. During my 12 week placement I had an incredible experience I met some lovely people and discovered another culture completely different from my own. Whether it was the humain experience the project in Rolpa and the cultural discovery I can say without a doubt that it was the least thing of my life! For all days spent by your side I would like to thank all the volunteers from vol Nepal and Himalayan circuit as well as Didi for welcoming me and guiding us through the period.
Oct 12, 2024 | Engineering Internship in Nepal
Adrien CARAVATI
FranceNamaste! I would like to thank the entire VolNepal team for these incredible moments that I was able to spend in Nepal, Thanks to you. Whether in Kathmandu as in Rolpa district you embraced me as if I were one of your own, and that really touched me. I leave with a head full of memories and shared moments that will remain engraved for a long time. I am proud of the project we carried out for the Rolpa district school. Knowing that what we have put in place will be useful to children makes me really happy. It’s a useful and complete project, and I am happy to have contributed to it. Thank you again for your support your smiles and everything you have taught me. I already and everything you have taught me. I already know that I will return to Nepal one day, and it will be a great celebration thanks to you!
Oct 11, 2024 | Engineering Internship in Nepal
Léandre WERNIMONT
FranceNamaste My 5-week internship went by extremely quickly. This tip was my first experience being so far from home and I won’t forget it. First of all, upon my arrival the country completely took me out of my French comfort zone. The local culture, landscape, and places to explore are incredible and I wish I could have stayed longer to see everything. The monastery project was cool and different from my usual concrete project of my job at France. The team on site is amazing, guiding us and always ready to help us without request. Also thank you for organizing the two trip to Chitwan and Pokhara which will be unforgettable. I also want to thanks Didi for all the delicious meals she prepared for us and for her kindness. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would do it without hesitation. Thank you for everything or I would rather say in Nepalese Dhanyabaad.
Sep 26, 2024 | Engineering Internship in Nepal
Fernando Cubillo Alrbide
FranceNamaste! Its been already nearly 2 months since I arrived here in Nepal and finally the time has come to day goodbye. The first 3 weeks of volunteering in the monastery were amazing the joy I felt like every day is something I had never experienced in my life. I would like to think Sushil, Nisha, and specially Didi for taking care of me and making my time in the house like I was at home. Also, I am so grateful to have been able to meet the other volunteers and all the good moments we were able to share together. After that the treks I did were a childhood dream came true. Thank you for all your work organizing everything and for bring always available for any question I might have, you really made me have the greatest time of mt life up there in the mountains. Dhanyabaad!
Sep 03, 2024 | Volunteer in Nepal | Teach, Explore, and Make a Difference
Kylian Grossemy
FranceNamaste! During these 12 weeks of internship, I had the most enriching experience of my life. Whether in terms of meeting new people, working, visiting or traveling Nepal exceed all my exceptions. I will never forget it! At the very beginning, this internship was challenging for me because it took me out of my comfort zone and stripped away all my familiar reference point. Thanks to the volunteer and the staff, I was able to overcome this and make the most of my Nepalese experience perfect. I would like to sincerely thank Didi. For welcoming us and feeding is with great kindness during this entire period. I also want to thank VolNepal and GapYearNepal for the warm welcome the exchange we had and the trips they proposed. Dhanyabaad!
Aug 28, 2024 | Engineering Internship in Nepal
Lida Forner Comes
SpainNamaste! I can only say thank you, thank you for your time, the experience and thank you for this opportunity. Nepal has been one of the best things we have ever had in our life. I have met wonderful people I have been able to learn and participate in the culture of here and above all I have been able to be part of a wonderful family which has treated me like one more daughter. I will never forget this adventure. Nepal its people and the people and the family I have lived with will be always be in my heart and I will always be grateful to them.
Aug 05, 2024 | Volunteer in Nepal | Teach, Explore, and Make a Difference
Andrea & Paul
SpainAfter more than 15 days in this country and this house specifically, we can only say thank you. At first it was difficult for us, because we were separated from our parents by so many kilometers and also because of the culture shock. But as we started volunteering, we realized that we were having the opportunity to live a wonderful experience. Thank you first of all to the most family for their welcoming, love and flexibility with us. Also thank the agency that helped us from Spain, you social and our supporters here in Nepal, sui and Nisha. Finally, we would like to thank the school and the hospital that have made it easier for us to stay here and have let us be part of their projects. Muchos gracias!
Jul 31, 2024 | Volunteer in Nepal | Teach, Explore, and Make a Difference
Abril and Laia
SpainNamaste! These past three weeks have been a blast. This experience has been a great one and we will not forget this! A special thanks to Didi for providing us with good food every day, to Nisha for the traditional dresses, and to dual for the company the first three days of volunteering. We want to say the biggest thanks to the French guys, with whom we have shared this experience for always making us feel safe and comfortable! Thank you!
Jul 21, 2024
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