Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a captivating and relatively short adventure in the Annapurna region, offering trekkers a perfect blend of lush forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking mountain vistas, all on a less-crowded trail. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a serene yet rewarding Himalayan experience.
The journey begins in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive to the trailhead at Kade. The trek ascends through diverse landscapes, starting with a gentle walk to Australian Camp, known for its panoramic views. The trail then winds through beautiful, dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo to reach Forest Camp (3,050m) and continues to the stunning High Camp (3,600m), where the views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range become truly spectacular.
The highlight of the trek is a day hike from High Camp to the Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint at 4,500m. This final ascent offers awe-inspiring, close-up vistas of the iconic Fishtail peak and Mardi Himal, with a unique sense of tranquility at this high altitude. The return journey descends through the charming village of Siding, providing a different perspective of the region's forests, valleys, and traditional Gurung villages.
The trek concludes with a scenic drive back to Pokhara, offering time to relax by the lake before returning to Kathmandu. The Mardi Himal Trek is perfect for trekkers of all ages seeking a moderate challenge, stunning scenery, and a peaceful connection with nature.
Things That You Need to Know
Duration & Difficulty
Why It Suits Beginners with Good Fitness — Manageable daily walking hours and a well-defined trail, despite reaching 4,500m.
Altitude
Mardi Himal Base Camp Viewpoint (4,500m) — The trek's single high point, reached as a day hike from High Camp rather than an overnight stay.
Best Season
The best times are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the clearest skies, most stable weather, and best mountain views. The trails are also particularly beautiful in spring with blooming rhododendrons.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Day Hike
Wildlife Along the Trail — Possible sightings of Danphe (Himalayan Monal) and langur monkeys in the forest sections.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation is in basic but comfortable tea houses or lodges along the route, run by local villagers. They provide meals, a bed, and a warm atmosphere. It is advisable to carry a sleeping bag for added comfort. The package includes hotel stays in Kathmandu.
Permits Required
Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card. These are included in our package and will be arranged for you.
Guides & Porters
Is Independent Trekking Possible Here? — Technically, yes, but a licensed guide is strongly recommended for navigation and safety.
Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrival at Kathmandu airport. Global Nepal Treks team will greet you and assist with arrangements for your stay. Overnight at hotel.
Australian Camp Sunset Viewpoint — Panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre; a popular start/end point for the trek.
Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Kade (1,706m). Begin trek with a 1-hour walk through lush landscapes to Australian Camp (2,000m). Enjoy stunning sunset views over the Himalayas. Overnight at a lodge.
Trek to Forest Camp
Trek from Australian Camp (2,000m) to Forest Camp (3,050m). The trail ascends through dense forests of rhododendron and oak, with occasional mountain views. Approx. 5-6 hours. Overnight at a lodge.
Trek to High Camp
Trek from Forest Camp (3,050m) to High Camp (3,600m). The terrain becomes more alpine and the views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South become increasingly dramatic. Approx. 5 hours. Overnight at a lodge.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Day Hike — Close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Mardi Himal, then return to High Camp same day.
Early morning start for a challenging but rewarding day hike to the Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint (4,500m). Enjoy breathtaking close-up views of Mardi Himal and the iconic Fishtail peak. Return to High Camp for the night. Approx. 5-6 hours round trip. Overnight at a lodge.
Trek to Siding
Descend from High Camp via a different route to the village of Siding (1,700m). The trail offers a new perspective of the forests and valleys. Approx. 6-7 hours. Overnight at a lodge.
Trek to Roadhead & Drive to Pokhara
Short trek from Siding to the roadhead, then a scenic drive back to Pokhara (approx. 2-3 hours). Free evening to relax by Phewa Lake. Overnight at a hotel.
Drive back to Kathmandu
Scenic drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu (approx. 6-7 hours). Overnight at a hotel.
Departure
Transfer to the airport for your onward destination.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Airport pick up & drops by private transport
- All ground transportation as per the itinerary (Kathmandu-Kade, Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- 3 meals per day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) including Tea or coffee
- Accommodation in tea houses/lodges during the trek
- 2 Nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 1 Night hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
- An experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- Necessary porter (1 porter for 2 guests)
- All Government local taxes
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) entry fees
- TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card
- First Aid kit
- Guide and porter salary
- Guide and porter insurance during the trekking
Excluded
- Trekking equipment and any personal expenses (alcoholic beverages, phone usage, laundry)
- Emergency Rescue and Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
- Trip Cancellation cost due to accident, Health, Loss, Theft or Damage
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Tips and Gratuities
Essential Information
Trip Code
GNT-MHT
Trip Type
Short off-the-beaten-path Annapurna trek, Fishtail close-up views
Accommodation
Teahouses/lodges on trek; hotels in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Meals
Full board on trek; breakfast only in Kathmandu/Pokhara
Transportation
Private vehicle Pokhara–Kande (trailhead) and Siding–Pokhara (return); all trekking sections on foot
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the prime seasons, offering the clearest skies, most stable weather, and best mountain views. Spring brings a bonus of blooming rhododendrons along the trail, making the forest sections especially scenic. The trek can technically be undertaken year-round, but seasons outside spring and autumn may present weather challenges (monsoon rains, winter snowfall). Autumn offers post-monsoon clarity with sharp, crisp views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range.
Difficulty Level
Rated as a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers of most experience levels, including well-prepared beginners. Involves steep ascents and descents, particularly on the Day 5 hike to the Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint (4,500m) and the long descent to Siding on Day 6. Daily trekking ranges from 1 to 6–7 hours, with Day 5 (base camp day hike) and Day 6 (descent to Siding) being the most demanding. The 9-day itinerary is designed to allow a comfortable, well-paced progression compared to shorter versions of the same route.
Fitness Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively short and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers stunning, close-up views of the majestic Mardi Himal and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak, along with diverse landscapes and rich Gurung culture.
How long is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The duration of the Mardi Himal Trek typically ranges from 5 to 9 days, depending on the itinerary and starting point. Our 9-day itinerary provides a well-paced and comfortable experience.
What is the best time to trek to Mardi Himal?
The best time is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and spectacular mountain views. Spring also brings beautiful rhododendron blooms. The trek can be undertaken year-round, but other seasons may have weather challenges.
Is the Mardi Himal Trek difficult?
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers of most experience levels. However, there are some steep ascents and descents, and the highest point is at 4,500m, which requires good fitness and awareness of altitude. Proper acclimatization is important.
What is the altitude of Mardi Himal Base Camp?
The highest point of the trek, the Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint, sits at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) above sea level.
Do I need a guide/porter for the Mardi Himal Trek?
While it is possible to trek independently on the Mardi Himal route, hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended for navigation, safety, and gaining deeper cultural insights. Our package includes an experienced English-speaking guide and porter services.
What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Trekkers need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These are included in our package and will be arranged for you.
What kind of accommodation is available on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Accommodation along the route primarily consists of basic but comfortable tea houses or lodges run by local villagers. They offer a bed, blankets, and meals. It is advisable to carry a sleeping bag for added warmth.
What should I pack for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers (including a down jacket for the cold nights at high camp), rain gear, a good sleeping bag, trekking poles, a headlamp, a first aid kit, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and personal toiletries.
Are there ATM facilities along the Mardi Himal Trek route?
ATM Availability Warning — Very limited along the route; carry sufficient cash from Kathmandu or Pokhara in advance.
What are the main highlights of the trek?
Key highlights include the spectacular close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Mardi Himal from High Camp and the Base Camp viewpoint, trekking through pristine rhododendron and bamboo forests, the serene atmosphere away from crowded trails, and experiencing the local Gurung culture.
What is Australian Camp?
Australian Camp is a beautiful hill station offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. It is a popular starting or ending point for the Mardi Himal trek and is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek is a great option for beginners with a good level of fitness. The daily walking hours are manageable, and the trail is well-defined. However, the altitude at the base camp viewpoint is significant and should be respected.
How does this trek compare to the Annapurna Base Camp trek?
How This Compares to Annapurna Base Camp Trek — Shorter, less crowded, and focused on Fishtail/Mardi Himal views rather than the full Annapurna Sanctuary.
Can I see wildlife on the trek?
Yes, the forests along the trail are home to a variety of wildlife. With luck, you might spot birds like the colorful Danphe (Himalayan Monal), langur monkeys, and other small mammals.