Mardi Himal Trek – 5 Days Itinerary & Complete Guide
A quiet trail, deep forests, and one of the most dramatic ridgelines in the Annapurnas Mardi Himal is the perfect short trek for those seeking big Himalayan views without the crowds.
🏔️ Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most beautiful short treks in Nepal.
This route takes you through peaceful rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and finally up to the dramatic Mardi ridge offering breathtaking sunrise views over Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
This route takes you through peaceful rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and finally up to the dramatic Mardi ridge offering breathtaking sunrise views over Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.
It’s the ideal trek if you want a 5-day adventure with:
- No crowds
- Big Himalayan panoramas
- A natural, quiet environment
- A rewarding final climb to Mardi High Viewpoint
⭐ Key Highlights
- Close-up sunrise views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South & Hiunchuli
- Quiet, less crowded trail (compared to ABC & Poon Hill)
- Beautiful rhododendron & pine forests
- Peaceful teahouses with warm hospitality
- Dramatic ridgeline walk to High Camp
- Suitable for beginners with moderate fitness
🗺️ Itinerary Details (5 Days)
| Day | Route Segment | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Pokhara → Kande → Forest Camp | Drive to Kande, trek up through forest trails. (5–6 hrs trekking) |
| Day 2 | Forest Camp → Badal Danda | Walk through deep rhododendron forests and reach the stunning open views at Cloud Hill. (5 hrs trekking) |
| Day 3 | Badal Danda → High Camp | Panoramic ridge walk with clear views of Fishtail and Annapurna South. (4 hrs trekking) |
| Day 4 | High Camp → Mardi Viewpoint (4,200m) → Siding Village | Early morning sunrise climb, then long descent to Siding Village. (Trek Highlight!) (7–8 hrs trekking) |
| Day 5 | Siding → Pokhara | After breakfast, scenic drive back to Pokhara. (3 hrs drive) |
💰 Price & Booking Information
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| Group Package | $480 per person |
| Solo Package | $600 total |
Note: Prices include a licensed guide, porter, transportation, accommodation, all meals during the trek, and all required permits (ACAP/TIMS).
✅ Inclusions and Exclusions
What's Included
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
- All full-board meals during the trek
- Lodge/teahouse accommodation
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & TIMS card
- Private transportation: Pokhara ↔ Trailhead
- First aid kit and staff insurance
What's Not Included
- Personal trekking gear (rentals available)
- Drinks (tea, coffee, bottled water, alcohol)
- Mandatory travel insurance
- Tips for guide & porter (expected)
- Expenses in Pokhara before/after the trek
🥾 Difficulty, Seasons, & Packing
Difficulty Level
Moderate. Suitable for fit beginners. Requires sustained walking for 4–7 hours daily on steep paths.
Best Seasons
- March – May (Spring): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons.
- September – November (Autumn): Best views, stable weather.
Recommended Packing List
- Warm down jacket and insulating layers
- Waterproof/windproof outer shell
- Quality trekking boots and hiking socks
- Water bottle/hydration bladder
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
📞 Ready to Trek?
If this journey speaks to your heart, I’d be happy to guide you personally.
Let’s explore Mardi Himal together.
– Sarita Paudel Professional Trekking Guide
Short, scenic, and soul-refreshing.
If you're looking for a trek that blends dramatic Himalayan views, peaceful forest trails, and a rewarding high-point ridge — this is your trek.
Book This TrekTrek at a Glance
Duration:5 Days
Max Altitude:4,200m (Viewpoint)
Difficulty:Moderate