Lately, there has been extensive road construction (KATHMANDU TO POKHARA )on Prithvi Highway, causing traffic congestion and air pollution. The journey that used to take around 6-7 hours now takes roughly 8-9 hours. We appreciate your patience.
The Mardi Himal Trek is the best short, moderate-type, newly open trek in the Annapurna region. The journey commences from Kande (1706m) and takes you to Upper Viewpoint at approximately 4200 meters. You’ll journey into the clouds to discover Mountains in snow, lush forests, and Ethnic villages. This will take you deep into the Annapurna region, which is famous for its rich, unblemished natural beauty. You’ll be hiking through a diverse biodiversity, encountering mountain flora and fauna.
Don’t think for a second that the Mardi Himal Trek is a lesser alternative to any of the more famous routes in the Annapurnas. This is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through thick jungles across swiftly flowing rivers of glacial meltwater, passing small villages with people from different cultures.
You’ll also get to have some cultural encounters in a more rural area. Additionally, these trails lead to hillside villages, beautiful homesteads, Terraced farms, and lush pine forests. You’ll witness mesmerizing sights of iconic mountain ranges like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Hiunchuli. You walk through ridges and eventually reach the upper viewpoint near a Base camp of Mardi Himal. The view from the spot is breathtaking as you see Mount Machhapuchhre right before you.
And because the entire itinerary can be completed in just over one week, this route is an excellent option for trekkers who don’t have time to spend multiple weeks on the trail. This combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity makes the Mardi Himal Trek a true hidden gem that’s just waiting to be discovered.
We at Nepal Hiking Team are excited to guide you on this famous and celebrated trail. Join this 9-day journey to Mardi Himal Trek for a promising, unforgettable experience.
The trip to Mardi Himal Trek begins with your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. As you reach the arrival gate, one of our members from the NHT will be there to receive you. You will then be accompanied to a hotel near the tourist hub in Kathmandu. Here, you’ll be briefed about your trip and itinerary. This lively area offers great places to explore, shop, and eat.
The next day, you will take a bus ride along winding roads and roaring Mountains to Pokhara. You may even stop at local places to have a meal. After reaching Pokhara, you can walk down the street or stroll down the lakeside to let the peace envelop you.
Then, you head toward Kande by drive, where you’ll commence your journey to Pothana via Australian Camp. The trail ascends through magnificent landscapes and enriches your experience as you ascend to Pothana.
Next comes the trek to Forest Camp (Kokar). You begin this through Pitam Deurali, the midpoint of two famous trekking routes. The right trail leads us to Mardi Himal, and the left path goes to Annapurna Base Camp. As you go through enchanting forests, following the trails that wind alongside diverse plants and wildlife, you will reach Forest Camp.
From Forest Camp, we ascend to High Camp, passing Rest Camp and Low Camp. The path will wind up through dense forests that rarely give a peak of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre. You’ll pause for lunch at Badal Danda. Crossing the Nange Danda, we will approach High Camp and transition to the alpine landscape.
On day 6, you will reach your ultimate destination, Upper Viewpoint, which will reward you with an unparalleled view of the Annapurna Ranges and Mardi Himal. You will then return the same route to Badal Danda, rediscovering the beauty.
This final trek will bring you a profound sense of accomplishment as you ponder the days spent in the mountains. After reaching Siding, you will return to Pokhara by bus, where you can enjoy this vibrant city.
The next day, you take a bus back to Kathmandu, where you’ll be transferred to a hotel. You can either rest up or explore this cultural city. On the final day, a representative from the Nepal Hiking Team will transfer you to the airport approximately three hours before your departure.
The difficulty of the Mardi Himal Trek may depend on your physical fitness level. The Mardi Himal is considered a moderate challenge trekking.
Many trekkers find this route easy, as it's one of the shorter treks in the Annapurna region and does not involve challenging terrain. However, a first-time trekker or beginner can rate this trek moderately difficult due to the long walks and more uphill climbs.
The plus point of this journey is that you do not need prior experience to do the adventure. The package is also carefully prepared, with plenty of resting time. You’ll get enough time to adjust your body to the changing altitudes. Further, although the trails are well maintained, you must be physically fit and well to go on this trek.
Isn't Mardi Himal Trekking fascinating? Want to explore more than this? Here, we present some other excellent packages similar to this.
The first one is the Annapurna Mardi Himal Trek (Poon Hill). It is a 12-day trip that takes you to the High Camp of Mardi Himal via the Annapurna Poon Hill route. At Ghorepani Poon Hill, you can catch a beautiful sunrise and witness the best panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with other mountains.
Apart from this, we also offer various treks in the Everest region, Annapurna region, Langtang region, and many more. We have crafted very special short trips to each of these destinations, such as the Everest View Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, and others.
After arriving at Kathmandu Airport (TIA), you are warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. You can visit the vibrant city, soaking in its rich culture and bustling streets, or take a rest in the hotel, preparing for your upcoming adventure.
Later on this day, you will have a brief meeting about the Mardi Himal Trek itinerary, accommodations, and other details. If required, we NHT will provide trekking gear for Mardi Trip, such as a Duffle bag, sleeping Bag, down jacket (M, L, XL, all sizes available), and Mardi Himal Trek Map.
Your journey to Pokhara begins early. You will take a scenic bus ride, looking at the Himalayas and green fields. You can make a stop at local places to experience traditional Nepali food and hospitality. After arriving in Pokhara, you can see the Mountain views. You will take a rest in your hotel or stroll around the lakeside.
Note: Instead of the long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, which can take 6-7 hours or more due to traffic, consider flying. The flight lasts just 25 minutes and costs an additional USD 90.00 per person, offering a quicker and less tiring alternative.
On the 3 day of Mardi Trek we will start by driving from Pokhara to Kande, which takes about 45 minutes. From Kande, we will begin our trek towards Pothana, passing through the Australian Camp. This part of the trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and gives us a glimpse into the local culture and daily life of the communities we pass through.
As we reach Pothana, where we will stay overnight, you will be treated to a stunning view of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), standing tall at 6,993 meters. The scenery is truly mesmerizing, making this a memorable start to our Mardi Himal adventure.
We start our trek by walking through beautiful forests. The path goes under tall trees, and we might see some animals along the way. We will pass through a small village called Pitam Deurali, which is 2,142 meters high. If the weather is good, we can see Annapurna South and Hiunchuli mountains from here.
As we keep going, the trail gently goes uphill through peaceful forests filled with pine trees and colorful rhododendrons. The fresh air and quiet sounds of the forest make it a relaxing walk. We will finally reach a place called Forest Camp, also known as Kokar, where we will stop for the night.
Today's trek is short, but we will walk slowly to get used to the higher altitude as we head to High Camp. We will pass through dense forests at Rest Camp and Low Camp, which are at 3,050 meters. Sometimes, the trees will open up, giving us amazing views of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre.
The trek is peaceful, and the changing trail reminds us of the beauty of the untouched wilderness around us.
We will stop for lunch at Badal Danda, which is at 3,250 meters. Here, the views are beautiful, refreshing both our bodies and spirits. After lunch, we continue our journey, moving from the forests into more open, alpine landscapes as we get closer to High Camp.
At High Camp, we are surrounded by the incredible views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. It’s a day of great achievement and stunning beauty, as we find ourselves in the heart of the Himalayas.
Before breakfast, we’ll start our day early, enjoying the cool morning air as we hike towards the highlight of our trek. The trail takes us up a ridge, leading to an amazing viewpoint with some of the best views of the Mardi Himal Trek.
As we walk through grassy fields, the path might get steep and narrow, but the soft morning light makes everything look calm and beautiful. As the sun rises, we might see dzo, a mix between a yak and a cow, grazing quietly with the mountains waking up behind them.
These green fields are where sheep and goats graze during the summer. If we’re lucky, we might also see the colorful danphe bird, Nepal's national bird, shining in the early light. After about three hours of climbing, we’ll reach the Upper View Point, a rocky spot at about 4,200 meters.
From here, the view is breathtaking. We’ll see deep into the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by giants like Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. We’ll take some time to enjoy the scenery before heading back to High Camp for a well-deserved breakfast.
We’ll start our descent to Badal Danda, carrying with us the peaceful memories of the morning and the stunning beauty of the mountains. This early start, along with the breakfast and the journey that follows, are all part of our unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.
We begin our final trek with a steep descent through the farms, passing by terraced fields and crossing suspension bridges. The path leads us to Siding village, where we reflect on the incredible days spent surrounded by the majestic mountains. This part of the trek fills us with a deep sense of accomplishment.
After reaching Siding, a 2-hour drive will take us back to the peaceful city of Pokhara, where we can relax and enjoy the memories of our journey.
We will begin our journey back to Kathmandu aboard a tourist bus. After our mountain adventure, the familiar streets of Kathmandu will greet us with a renewed sense of wonder, as we reflect on our recent experiences in the Himalayas.
Once we arrive, we'll stay overnight in Kathmandu, giving us time to rest and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.
A representative from Nepal Hiking Team will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport about three hours before your scheduled flight departure.
We hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Nepal and the thrilling adventure on the Mardi Himal Trek.
Mardi Himal Trek Route Map
Detailed Elevation and Duration Chart of the Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is classified as an easy to moderate-level trek, making it suitable for individuals with a reasonable level of fitness. While the trek does not require technical climbing skills, it involves consistent ascents and descents, particularly on the trails leading to High Camp.
The Mardi Himal Trek's highest point is Upper View Point, at an altitude of 4,200 meters, which is considered relatively low risk for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). While some sections of the trail involve steep climbs, as well as rocky and narrow paths, the trek is manageable with adequate preparation.
Trekkers need to walk an average of 5–6 hours per day over a span of 6–7 days, making it suitable for individuals with moderate fitness levels. However, it is essential to monitor the weather and temperature conditions in the Mardi Himal area, as sudden changes can affect trail safety and comfort.
The best time to trek to Mardi Himal, is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) seasons.
During this time, it offers ideal weather conditions and a perfect environment for trekking. The stunning landscapes and snow-capped mountains are at their best during these months. The trail is also filled with wildflowers, including the bloom of rhododendrons.
You can still enjoy the trek in winter (December-February) and monsoon seasons (June-August). However, the possibility of snow and slippery trails can make the hike more challenging. So, planning your trek during spring or autumn for the best experience is better.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a mix of stunning mountain views, peaceful trails, and a chance to experience Nepal’s culture up close. The trek takes you to Upper View Point, which is the highest point at 4,200 meters, and the views from there are absolutely breathtaking. You’ll see Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli right in front of you—it’s a sight you’ll never forget.
Another reason to choose this trek is the opportunity to visit traditional villages like Siding and Low Camp, where you can meet locals from the Gurung and Magar communities. Their warm hospitality, simple lifestyle, and delicious local food like dal bhat make the journey even more special.
This trek isn’t too hard either. The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s shorter treks, perfect for a quick escape into the mountains. In just 6–7 days, it takes you off the beaten path, offering a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
If you are satisfied with the 9-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary and our services (Cost includes and excludes), you can book your trip by following these steps:
Steps to Reserve
Choose Your Best Time: Visit our Departure Dates section and select your preferred date for 2025 or beyond. Click “Book This Date” on the Mardi Himal package.
Fill Out the Booking Form: Provide details such as your full name, email address, nationality, and flight details.
Pay the Deposit: A 20% deposit is required to confirm your booking. You can:
Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll send you a confirmation email with the itinerary and essential trip information. The remaining balance can be paid in Kathmandu by card, cash (USD), or wire transfer.
If you need to cancel your trip due to any reason, such as flight delays, health issues, or unforeseen weather conditions, simply send us a cancellation request. We will process your request promptly and provide a response as soon as possible.
Please note that the 20% deposit is non-refundable. However, it can be credited toward a future trip that better fits your schedule.
We kindly encourage you to review our booking and cancellation policy before confirming your trip to ensure clarity on all terms and conditions. Feel free to contact us in whatsapp or email address with any questions—we’re happy to assist.
With 15+ years of experience, Nepal Hiking Team has established itself as one of the most trusted trekking companies in Nepal, providing exceptional service and unforgettable experiences to thousands of trekkers. Safety is our highest priority, and we take every measure to ensure a secure and enjoyable journey for our clients.
Nepal Hiking Team provides trekking gear like a sleeping bag, down jacket, duffle bag (these items should be returned after the trip), a Mardi Himal Trekking map, and even a t-shirt and cap as memorable souvenirs. Additionally, each trek is equipped with a first aid kit, complete with essential medical items like an oximeter to monitor oxygen levels and water purification tablets to ensure safe hydration throughout the trek.
Our team of highly professional guides is a cornerstone of our service. With extensive knowledge of the Mardi Himal region, they offer insights into local culture, geography, and traditions, ensuring an authentic experience. Many of our guides are locals, adding a personal touch to your journey and helping you connect with the area's rich heritage.
We pride ourselves on providing seamless service, from complimentary airport pickup and drop-off to reliable communication on various platforms for any concerns or queries. Trusted by over 27000 customers and over 2,000 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor only speak to the trust and satisfaction of our clients. Trekkers appreciate our attention to detail, professionalism, and the personalized care they receive.
If you're seeking a trekking company that combines expertise, safety, and a passion for creating lifelong memories, Nepal Hiking Team is the perfect choice for your Mardi Himal adventure.
Absolutely! We offer both options for solo travelers. You can join one of our Mardi Himal group treks, which ensures a lively and friendly experience. Our groups are kept small, typically between 2 to 10 trekkers, for personalized support and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great way to meet fellow adventurers while enjoying the trek.
If you prefer a private trek, we can create a customized package tailored just for you. However, please note that solo private trips may include a surcharge.
You can check our departure dates for all months, from January to December 2025 and beyond, directly through the navigation bar on our website.
Yes, all our guides are proficient in English. Many of them are locals from the Gurung and Magar communities of the Mardi Himal region. They are familiar with the local tea house owners, shopkeepers, and native residents, which helps create a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout the trek.
They share fascinating stories, local myths, and cultural insights and also take care of you through every step.
The Mardi Himal Trip is categorized as one of the short treks in Nepal, which can be completed in 5 - 8 days. We, Nepal Hiking Team, provide 9 -a day Mardi Himal package where two days are allocated for arrival and departure, two days from kathmandu to Pokhara and back to kathmandu, and the other 5 days are trekking and reaching the highest point of Mardi at 4200 (Upper Viewpoint).
Mardi Himal, or Mardi Mountain Peak, is at an elevation of 5,587 meters (18,330 feet), located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It sits beneath the striking, splendid Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) on the southwest side.
Yes, Nepal offers on-arrival visas for most nationalities at the airport. To get your visa, you will need a passport valid for at least six months with a blank page, along with two passport-sized photos.
You can fill out the visa application form online in advance or at the airport kiosks. The visa fee is payable in USD or other major currencies at the immigration counter. Processing time may vary depending on the number of travelers at the time.
Feel free to check our Visa Information page or contact us directly.
We are a local trekking company, and we do not book international flights to or from Nepal.
Once you arrive in Nepal, we take care of everything of Mardi Himal Trip Package—from your airport pickup to accommodate you in hotels, government taxes, permits for Mardi Trek, and other services, too.
Yes, we strongly recommend having travel insurance for the Mardi Himal Trek. Trekking in the Annapurna region involves unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and the possibility of altitude sickness (AMS). Other risks include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or even lost baggage during your journey.
We suggest choosing a policy that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 4,200 meters) and includes emergency helicopter evacuation. Review our travel insurance guide, it may help you.
Immunizations are not mandatory to trek in Nepal, but they are highly recommended to safeguard your health during the trip. Common vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Rabies, which are recommended by CDC, depending on your personal health history and travel plans.
Yes, we do! When you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we’ll be there to welcome you. You’ll find one of our team members waiting just outside the terminal, holding a sign that says "Nepal Hiking Team." It’s easy to spot us, and we’re ready to assist you from the moment you arrive.
For your departure, we’ll arrange to drop you off at the airport about 3 hours before your flight so you have enough time to check in without any rush.
If your plans change and you arrive early or leave later, just let us know. We can adjust the pickup or drop-off schedule to match your timing. It’s all part of making your trip smooth and stress-free!
The Mardi Himal Trek is a great choice for beginners, even if you’re trekking solo. The highest point is 4,200 meters, and the daily walking hours are around 5–6 hours, making it a manageable and rewarding trek. Some parts of the trail are a bit steep and rocky, but nothing too technical or hard to handle.
What’s more, there are no age restrictions for this trek. We’ve organized treks for families with children as young as 5 years old, as well as trekkers in their late 60s and 70s. Whether you join a group or a private trip to Mardi trek experience, you’ll be well-supported.
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek is safe for solo female travelers. The trail goes through peaceful villages, where the locals are friendly and respectful. If you join our trek, you’ll have a guide who will walk with you, help you on the trail, and take care of any concerns you may have.
We’ve had many solo female trekkers, and they’ve always felt comfortable and well looked after.
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for kids, provided they have basic fitness and enjoy walking. The trek is relatively shorter and less strenuous compared to other Himalayan treks, with manageable daily walking hours of 4–6 hours. Families with children as young as 7–8 years old have successfully completed this trek.
The trail offers plenty of opportunities for breaks, and the teahouses along the route provide comfortable rest stops with food and accommodation. However, it’s important to plan the trek at a child-friendly pace, with extra days for rest and acclimatization if needed.
At Nepal Hiking Team, our guides are highly experienced professionals, trained to handle any situation that may arise during your trek. They have a deep knowledge of the Mardi Himal region, including its weather conditions, alternative routes (if any situations occurs), and local culture and religion, which allows them to make quick decisions if plans need to change.
Each guide carries essential safety equipment, such as a first-aid kit, oximeter, and water purification, and is trained in rescue operations by NAATHM (National Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management). In case of emergencies, they coordinate directly with our Kathmandu head office, Naya Bazar (Nepal Hiking Team) to arrange for immediate evacuation in severe cases.
Yes, a guide is required for Mardi Himal Hike as we only organize guided treks and tours in Nepal. They will lead you through the trail, assist with any challenges; we ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mardi.
Altitude sickness, or AMS, can happen when trekking above 2,500 meters, but don’t worry, it can be managed. To avoid it during Mardi trekking, trek slowly and don’t rush. Give your body time to adjust to the altitude of Mardi by taking proper rest days and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Eat well, avoid alcohol, and listen to your guide—they’ll keep an eye on your condition. If you feel any symptoms like headache, dizziness, or shortness of breath, tell your guide immediately. In serious cases, descending to a lower altitude is the best remedy. With the right precautions, you’ll enjoy the trek without issues.
Yes, there is snowfall in Mardi Himal, mostly in the higher areas. December to February is when you see the most snow, and sometimes in November or March, there can be light snowfall too.
If you want to see snow, you’ll start noticing it from Low Camp (3,050m) in winter. High Camp (3,580m) and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) get regular snowfall, and the higher you go, the thicker it gets.
For the best snow experience, late December to February is good, but the trails can be tough. Snow usually starts from 3,000m, and above 4,000m, it covers everything. If you want some snow but also clearer trails, early March is a better time.
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll need essential trekking gear, but no technical climbing equipment. Proper gear like a down jacket, sturdy trekking boots, and a sleeping bag is highly recommended to keep you comfortable during the trek.
If you’re unsure about what to pack, you can check our blog section titled "What to Pack for Mardi Himal Trek" for a detailed guide.
If you’re missing any items, don’t worry—you can easily rent or purchase gear in Thamel, near your hotel, before starting your trek.
To prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek, focus on improving your physical fitness, as the trek involves moderate ascents and descents. Regular activities like walking, hiking, or cycling can help build endurance. Incorporate exercises like squats, stair climbing, and stretching to strengthen your legs and improve flexibility.
Pack warm clothing, including a down jacket, as temperatures drop at higher elevations. Don’t forget essentials like trekking poles, sunglasses, gloves, sun protection lotion, and a rain jacket, as weather conditions can change quickly on the trail. Comfortable, sturdy trekking boots and layered clothing are highly recommended.
For packing, a duffle bag or rucksack is ideal for your gear, which will be carried by porters, while a daypack is handy for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and personal items during the trek.
Yes, we do! For the Mardi Himal Trek, we’ll provide you with a 4-season sleeping bag, a down jacket good for temperatures down to -10°C, a duffle bag for your belongings, and a Mardi Himal Trek map to help you follow the route.
These items will need to be returned after the trek. On top of that, we’ll also give you a company t-shirt, a cap, and a trip completion certificate showing the highest point you reached on the trek at 4,200 meters of Mardi Highest Point—a great way to remember Nepal Hiking Team and a journey of Mardi!
Yes, our guides always carry a first-aid kit during the trek. The kit includes essential medical supplies like bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, altitude sickness medications, and basic emergency tools. Additionally, they carry an oximeter to monitor oxygen levels and water purification tablets for safe drinking water.
However, we don’t provide any personal medical kit; you should arrange it by yourself.
Try to keep your daypack light. Include only essential items like sunscreen, lip balm, a water bottle, and snacks like chocolates, energy bars, or dry fruits to keep your energy up. Don’t forget personal items like a small first-aid kit, a hat, gloves, and a rain jacket in case of weather changes.
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need two permits:
Yes, we provide both permits for your Mardi Mountain Trekking in Nepal. Once you book the Mardi trip with us, we will handle all the paperwork, government taxes, book hotels, and obtain the necessary permits in advance, so you don’t have to worry about the process. All you need to bring is a copy of your passport and passport-sized photos for the permits.
For the Mardi Himal Trek, a 20 to 30-liter daypack is perfect. Make sure it has comfortable shoulder straps, a hip belt, and enough space for essentials like your water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. A rain cover is also important in case of sudden weather changes.
We’ll provide you with a duffle bag for all your extra clothes and gear, which will be carried by your porter.
Our Mardi Himal Trek package includes accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, such as Woodapple Hotel and Spa or similar. In Pokhara, you will also stay in a 3-star category hotel as well.
Additional Days in Kathmandu: If you wish to stay longer in Kathmandu, the additional cost is USD 50 for a double or twin room and USD 45 for a single room. These prices include breakfast and tax/VAT and are based on accommodation at a 3-star hotel.
Important notice: During the peak trekking season, you may or may not get the same room if you arrive earlier or stay beyond your scheduled trek dates. However, we will arrange accommodation in the same category hotel to ensure your comfort.
Upgrade: If you prefer an upgrade to a 4-star or 5-star hotel, we can arrange it for you at an additional cost. Let us know your preference, and we’ll handle the arrangements.
During Mardi Himal Trekking trails, you will stay in teahouses, which are simple lodges run by local families. The rooms are basic but comfortable, typically with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some teahouses at lower altitudes may offer hot showers for an additional cost.
Meals are served in a common dining area, where you can enjoy freshly prepared local and international dishes. Keep in mind that facilities become more basic as you ascend, but the hospitality of the locals and the stunning mountain views more than make up for it!
On the Mardi Himal Trek, most teahouses have squat toilets (Asian-style), which are basic but functional. At some locations, there may be Western-style toilets, but they are less common. It’s a good idea to carry essentials like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, soap, and wet wipes for convenience, as these may not always be available.
If you need to use the toilet where no tea houses are around, find a secluded spot behind large stones, bushes, or trees, ensuring you are far away from the trekking trail.
Teahouses on the Mardi Himal Trek offer simple, hearty meals. Common options include dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickle), Tibetan or Gurung bread, pancakes (banana or apple), noodle soups like thukpa, and potato dishes such as fried potatoes or French fries.
You’ll also find eggs (boiled, scrambled, or as an omelet), porridge, momos (dumplings), momos, and fried rice.
If you’re vegetarian or vegans, there are plenty of options, and you can let your guide or the teahouse staff know your preferences.
Meals are fresh and prepared with local ingredients (spinach, potato and other vegetables), offering both energy and a taste of Nepali culture.
Yes, drinking water is available throughout the trek. You can refill your bottles with boiled water at teahouses or purchase bottled water along the trail. However, we recommend using water purification tablets (carried by your guide with them) or a filter to treat tap or stream water, as it’s more eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Hot water is also available at guest houses for drinking or washing, but it usually comes at an additional cost, especially at higher altitudes.
Of course, you can! We can help you customize the trek to include side trips like Poon Hill, an additional day in Pokhara, or a wildlife adventure in Chitwan. You can also add a day for Kathmandu sightseeing or adjust the itinerary to suit your family’s preferences or personal interests.
If you want to experience popular and slightly moderate-level trekking, then you can choose Annapurna Base Camp Trek. ABC trek offers stunning views of the mountain and rich cultural experiences of the Tamang and Gurung localities. Also, it is a well-known route among the trekkers, so it can be crowded during the peak seasons. ABC trek takes about 10 - 14 days to complete.
Whereas talking about Mardi Himal Trekking, it is easier, quieter, and shorter, taking about 7 -9 days to complete. It is less crowded than ABC, offers beautiful, less crowded trails, and focuses on natural beauty rather than cultural experience.
Choose ABC for a lively, cultural trek or Mardi Himal for a peaceful, nature-focused experience.
Yes, if you prefer to avoid the drive, you can opt to fly between Kathmandu and Pokhara. The flight takes around 25–30 minutes and is an excellent way to save time. The additional cost is approximately USD 90 for one way or USD 180 for a round trip.
Yes, you absolutely can! We offer a 12-day Mardi Himal Trek via Poon Hill, which combines the iconic sunrise views from Poon Hill with the serene trails of Mardi Himal. This itinerary provides both cultural and natural highlights, making it a perfect adventure.
Yes, we do! If you decide to join the Mardi Himal Trek at the last minute, just let us know. We’ll arrange your permits, guide, and accommodation as quickly as possible to get you on the trail.
That said, it’s always better to book in advance, especially during the busy season, to make sure everything is ready and smooth. But don’t worry—if it’s last minute, we’ll do our best to make it happen for you!
Deciding between the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Mardi Himal Hike comes down to what speaks to your heart.
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a dream for many—big mountains, big adventure, and the chance to stand where legends begin. It’s beyond a trek; it’s a journey through Sherpa villages, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and trails that echo with stories of past explorers. If conquering altitude and ticking off a bucket-list goal is your thing, this is where you want to be.
The Mardi Himal Hike, though, feels like a secret whispered by the mountains. It’s quiet, gentle, and full of life—forests alive with birdsong, trails splashed with rhododendrons, and the majestic Machapuchare standing tall like a silent guardian. It’s perfect for those who want to slow down, breathe deep, and let the serenity seep in.
Both are beautiful in their own way, like two sides of the same coin.
You should plan to have around USD 20–25 per day (approximately 2,000–2,500 NPR) for personal expenses during the Mardi Himal Trek. This will cover things like snacks, such as chocolates or energy bars, bottled or boiled drinking water, hot showers at teahouses, charging your electronic devices, and Wi-Fi access where available.
It’s always wise to carry a bit of extra cash for unexpected expenses, as there are no ATMs along the trail. Smaller denominations are recommended for ease of use.
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Kathmandu and Pokhara at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, in the remote areas along the Mardi Himal Trek, only cash is accepted. Make sure to withdraw or exchange enough cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.
Without a doubt, Mardi Trek is famous among Nepalese. The cost of the Mardi Himal trek for Nepali travelers depends on where you start, how many days you take, what kind of facilities you choose, and how many people are in your group. Some spend less by taking local transport and staying in simple teahouses, while others prefer comfort with better lodging and food.
The Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint is about 40 to 50 kilometers from Pokhara. You first drive 1 to 2 hours to Kande or Phedi.
From there, the trek begins, and it typically takes 4 to 5 days of trekking to reach the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint.
The trek involves hiking through villages like Pothana, Forest Camp, and High Camp before finally reaching the Upper Viewpoint of Mardi.
The highest point of this trek is Mardi Himal High Camp, which is 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. From here, you can see breathtaking views of Mardi Himal and the surrounding peaks, making the trek a highlight of your journey in Nepal.
The Mardi Himal Trek begins in Kande, which is about an hour's drive from Pokhara. From Kande, trekkers will enjoy beautiful landscapes as they pass through small villages and forests on their way to the Mardi Himal ridge.
Mardi Himal is 5,587 meters (18,330 feet) tall. It’s a small peak in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering great views of the nearby mountains.
The Mardi Himal Trek with the Nepal Hiking Team generally lasts for 9 days. This includes the travel time from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The actual trekking part usually takes about 5 to 6 days, but this can vary depending on your pace and the specific plan you make.
The Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint is about 40 to 50 kilometers from Pokhara. You first drive 1 to 2 hours to Kande or Phedi.
From there, the trek begins, and it typically takes 4 to 5 days of trekking to reach the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint.
The trek involves hiking through villages like Pothana, Forest Camp, and High Camp before finally reaching the Upper Viewpoint of Mardi.
While trekking Mardi you will be passing through various ecosystems entering Annapurna Conservation Area also. If you are lucky, you may have a chance to see wildlife such as Himalayan monal, musk deer, Himalayan Black Bear, and even various colorful birds on your way. The region is also rich in flora; during peak seasons, you can see rhododendron flower blooms.
Mardi Himal is a 5587-meter-high mountain top in the Annapurna zone alongside Nepal's holy Mountain, Machhapuchhare (Fishtail). The Mardi Himal trek is a new travel route that has quickly become famous among foreigners and local Nepalese people.
Talking history of the Mardi Himal trek, Mountaineer Basil Goodfellow became the individual ever to summit at its top in 1961. However, the trek was not officially open for trekkers till 2012.
After 2012, a new path was established, following stunning edges and charming guesthouses/ teahouses up to High Camp (3,550m). For those who want more adventure, the trek continues from Upper Viewpoint (4,200m) to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m).
The trek starts from Nepal's tourist capital, Pokhara, and passes through the charming villages of Dhampus and Pothana. After passing through the lush forests of Rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, it heads to the base camp of Mardi Himal at an altitude of 4500m.
Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.
The Mardi Himal Trek set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 9 days Mardi Himal Trek departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.
Mardi Himal Trek Photos
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
Nepal Hiking Team arranged a customized ABC and Mardi Himal trek for our family of three, and the pre-tour communication was great.
Bhim was our guide, and his years of experience really showed. He made sure we stayed in the best places and easily adjusted our plans when needed.
Our porters, Gakul and Govinda, were amazing—absolute heroes in the mountains!
Bhim, Gakul, and Govinda were always checking in to see if we needed anything and were so helpful. They were awesome.
Thanks, Nepal Hiking Team!
