Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by a representative from Himalayan Escape Adventure. After a short introduction, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your journey. If time allows, you may want to take a brief walk around the bustling streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, or explore nearby attractions at your own pace.
After an early breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes about 6 hours. The journey is a beautiful one, passing through winding roads, rivers, and terraced fields. As you get closer to Pokhara, the towering peaks of the Annapurna Range come into view, setting the stage for the adventure that lies ahead. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel, and you can spend the evening exploring the lakeside area of Pokhara, enjoying views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountains.
After breakfast, you will take a short drive to Kande (approximately 1.5 hours), which is the starting point of your trek. From Kande, you will trek towards Australian Camp, a viewpoint offering fantastic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) peaks. After a break, you will continue your journey through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, gradually ascending to Forest Camp (2,600m). This peaceful camp, surrounded by trees and mountain views, will be your resting point for the night.
Today, you will trek from Forest Camp to High Camp, passing through a variety of terrain, including dense forests, grassy meadows, and some alpine zones. The trail ascends steadily, and after passing through Badal Danda (3,215m), the landscape opens up, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains. High Camp (3,550m) is a beautiful, secluded spot that offers panoramic views of the Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna ranges. After a rewarding day, you will stay overnight at High Camp.
Today, you will have an early start to hike to Mardi View Point (4,500m). The ascent offers stunning views of the Mardi Himal, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and the Annapurna Range. As you reach the viewpoint, the panoramic vista of the Himalayas is simply breathtaking. After spending time at the viewpoint, you will descend back to High Camp for a short rest before continuing the trek down to Low Camp (2,990m). The descent through the forest provides an opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the area before reaching your overnight stop at Low Camp.
After breakfast, you will trek down from Low Camp to Sidding, a small village located at an altitude of 1,745m. The trek is mostly downhill and takes about 3.5 hours. The trail winds through lush forests and scenic villages. Upon reaching Sidding, you will take a short drive (approximately 1.5 hours) back to Pokhara. After checking into your hotel in Pokhara, you will have time to relax and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps by visiting Phewa Lake or enjoying a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants.
After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to Kathmandu. The drive takes about 7 hours, offering more scenic views of the countryside as you pass through small villages, terraced fields, and lush hills. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free for you to explore any remaining attractions in Kathmandu or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
On your final day, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Your Mardi Himal Trek with Himalayan Escape Adventure comes to an end here, and we wish you safe travels and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively short but stunning trek located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It takes you through picturesque villages, lush forests, and rhododendron forests, leading up to Mardi Himal Base Camp, which lies at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,763 feet). The trek offers incredible panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountains, making it a perfect option for those seeking a less crowded and more tranquil Himalayan trekking experience. Despite its moderate difficulty, the trek allows trekkers to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas in a shorter time frame compared to other more strenuous treks.
The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes 5 to 8 days, making it a great option for trekkers with limited time. The trek starts from Pokhara, followed by a short drive to the trailhead at Kande. From there, you will ascend through forested paths and charming villages to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. After spending time at the base camp, you’ll descend back to Pokhara via different routes. The short duration and relatively moderate altitude make the trek an excellent choice for those new to trekking or seeking a shorter, less physically demanding adventure.
The best times to trek to Mardi Himal are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility of the mountains, including Annapurna and Machapuchare. The temperatures are moderate during these seasons, making the trek more comfortable. The winter (December to February) can be quite cold, especially at higher altitudes, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can make the trails slippery and less enjoyable.
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for those with a basic level of fitness. It involves 5 to 7 hours of walking each day on well-maintained trails, with some steep sections, especially as you get higher. The highest point of the trek, Mardi Himal Base Camp, sits at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet), so there is a need to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. However, the gradual ascent and shorter duration make this trek accessible to a wide range of trekkers, including those with limited trekking experience.
To trek in the Mardi Himal region, you will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits can be arranged by Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions, so you won’t have to worry about any paperwork. We ensure that all necessary permits are obtained before your trek, allowing you to focus on your adventure.
Preparing for the Mardi Himal Trek involves physical preparation and ensuring you have the right gear. Since the trek involves several hours of walking each day, we recommend engaging in regular cardio exercises such as walking, hiking, or running to build stamina. A few practice hikes with a backpack can also help you adjust to the terrain. Proper gear is essential, including sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, and a sleeping bag. At Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions, we provide a detailed packing list and pre-trek briefing to help you get ready.
Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek is primarily in teahouses, which are simple, family-run guesthouses along the route. You’ll stay in basic but comfortable rooms, with shared or private options depending on availability. The teahouses offer a variety of local and international meals, including dal bhat (lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and other Nepali dishes. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the facilities may become more basic, but the welcoming hospitality of the local people makes the experience enjoyable.
Yes, every trek with Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions comes with an experienced English-speaking guide. Our guides are trained to ensure your safety, provide insight into the local culture and geography, and manage any unexpected situations. You also have the option to hire a porter to carry your luggage, allowing you to trek with a lighter load. Having a porter can enhance your experience, especially on a trek that involves long days of walking.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone trekking above 3,000 meters, but the Mardi Himal Trek is designed to allow for gradual acclimatization. The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, at 4,500 meters, so there is a risk of altitude sickness. However, with proper acclimatization, hydration, and rest, the risk is minimized. Our guides at Himalayan Escape Treks & Expeditions are experienced in recognizing the symptoms of altitude sickness and will take precautions to ensure your well-being. It’s essential to listen to your body and take it slow to reduce the risk.
A detailed packing list will be provided by us, but essential items include a good pair of trekking boots, waterproof clothing, warm layers (including a down jacket), a sleeping bag, a headlamp, a water bottle, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen). Since the weather can change quickly in the mountains, it’s important to be prepared for both warm and cold conditions. If you’re unsure about what to pack, our team will be happy to offer personalized advice based on the season and your specific needs.