Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
Mardi Himal Trek Guide 2026: Cost, Best Viewpoints, Best Transportation & Accomodation
Tucked away in the eastern wing of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Mardi Himal (5,587 m / 18,330 ft) is one of Nepal's best-kept trekking secrets — and it's not staying secret for much longer. Often mistakenly spelled as "Madri Himal," this off-the-beaten-path peak sits directly east of the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and offers front-row views of the Annapurna massif, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre without the elbow-to-elbow crowds of its more famous neighbors.
The Mardi Himal Trek starts just a short drive from Pokhara, making it one of the most accessible high-altitude treks in Nepal. Whether you're a seasoned alpinist or a first-time trekker looking for a rewarding short adventure, the trail to Mardi Himal delivers raw Himalayan scenery, charming teahouses, rhododendron forests, and some of the most jaw-dropping ridge walks in the Annapurna region.
At Orbit Nepal Adventure, we've guided hundreds of trekkers up this route and in this complete 2026 travel guide, we're sharing everything you need to know to plan your own Mardi Himal journey from Pokhara.
The Mardi Himal Trek has exploded in popularity over the last few years, and for good reason:
If you're searching for an authentic Himalayan trekking experience without sacrificing scenery or altitude, Mardi Himal is your answer.
Understanding the geography helps you plan smarter:
| Leg | Distance | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Pokhara to Kande (trailhead) | ~18 km | Road (jeep/taxi/bus) |
| Kande to Australian Camp | ~3 km | Trek |
| Australian Camp to Low Camp | ~6 km | Trek |
| Low Camp to High Camp | ~5 km | Trek |
| High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp | ~3 km | Trek |
| Total trekking distance (one way) | ~17 km | Trek |
The total road distance from Pokhara to the Mardi Himal trailhead at Kande is approximately 18 km, taking 30–45 minutes by vehicle. The trekking distance from Kande to Mardi Himal Base Camp is roughly 17 km one way, typically covered over 3–4 days.
Getting from Pokhara to the Mardi Himal trekking start point is straightforward. Here are your main options for Pokhara to Mardi Himal transportation:
Local public buses run from Pokhara's Baglung Bus Park toward Nayapul or Birethanti, with a stop at Kande — the standard trailhead for the Mardi Himal Trek. Buses depart in the morning (typically 7:00–9:00 AM).
A private jeep or taxi from Pokhara Lakeside directly to Kande is the most comfortable and flexible option, especially if you're starting early.
Several guesthouses and trekking agencies in Pokhara arrange shared jeeps for groups. This splits the cost while keeping you comfortable.
💬 Need help with transport or a guided trek? Contact us via WhatsApp and our team at Orbit Nepal Adventure will arrange everything for you.
The classic Mardi Himal trekking route follows a ridge system through rhododendron and oak forests, opening onto breathtaking high-alpine terrain. Here's a recommended 5-day itinerary:
Drive from Pokhara to Kande (1,770 m) — about 45 minutes. Begin trekking uphill through terraced farmland and forest. Reach Australian Camp in 1–1.5 hours. This viewpoint already offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and is a popular overnight stop.
A longer walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests. The trail climbs steadily with occasional open meadow sections. Low Camp (also called Forest Camp) sits in a clearing with good views starting to emerge.
The trail emerges from the forest and onto the Mardi Himal ridge. Views of Machhapuchhre become dramatic. High Camp offers the first full panoramic views of the Annapurna massif. This is the acclimatization stop before the final push.
An early start (5:00–6:00 AM recommended) for sunrise views. The trail above High Camp is rocky and steep — this is where Mardi Himal truly earns its reputation. Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m puts you face-to-face with Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna giants. Descend back to High Camp or Low Camp.
Rather than retracing your steps, most trekkers descend via the eastern route through Siding Village (1,745 m) — a rewarding alternate descent through traditional Gurung villages. Arrange a jeep from Siding back to Pokhara (approximately 1.5 hours).
| Day | Route | Altitude | Trek Time | Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Pokhara → Australian Camp | 1,950 m | 1–1.5 hrs | ~200 m |
| Day 2 | Australian Camp → Low Camp | 2,985 m | 4–5 hrs | ~1,035 m |
| Day 3 | Low Camp → High Camp | 3,580 m | 3–4 hrs | ~595 m |
| Day 4 | High Camp → Base Camp → High/Low Camp | 4,500 m | 7–9 hrs total | ~920 m |
| Day 5 | Siding Village → Pokhara | 1,745 m | 4–5 hrs |
Descen |
Choosing the right season is critical for a safe and rewarding Mardi Himal Trek.
The best time to visit Mardi Himal is spring. Rhododendron forests burst into red and pink blooms, skies are clear, and temperatures at High Camp are manageable (0°C to 10°C during the day). This is peak trekking season — book teahouses in advance.
Post-monsoon autumn brings crystal-clear skies and spectacular mountain visibility. Trails are in good condition after the rains, and temperatures are crisp and stable. October is especially ideal.
High Camp and Base Camp can be buried in snow. Experienced trekkers with proper gear can still complete the trek, but sections above Low Camp become icy and risky.
Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery, leeches are common in the forest sections, and mountain views are largely obscured by cloud cover. Not suitable for most trekkers.
You need two permits to legally complete the Mardi Himal Trek:
| Permit | Cost (2026) | Where to Get |
|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 22) for foreigners | TAAN office, Pokhara or Kathmandu |
| TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) | NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 15) for individual trekkers | TAAN office, Pokhara or Kathmandu |
Note: Permit fees are subject to change. Always verify current rates with the Nepal Tourism Board or your trekking agency before departure. SAARC nationals receive discounted rates.
📋 Need help arranging your permits? Contact Orbit Nepal Adventure on WhatsApp — we handle all paperwork for guided treks.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a fully serviced teahouse trek — no camping or tents required unless you prefer it.
Basic but comfortable teahouse lodges are available at all major stops: Australian Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and Siding Village. Rooms are simple with twin beds and shared bathrooms. Some High Camp lodges now offer attached bathrooms with solar-heated showers.
Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and curry) is the staple — and with unlimited refills, it's the best fuel for trekking. Most teahouses also offer noodles, pasta, momos (dumplings), porridge, and hot drinks. Prices increase with altitude.
Here's a realistic Mardi Himal Trek budget for a solo independent trekker doing 5 days:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Pokhara to Kande transport (return) | 3,000–5,000 |
| ACAP Permit | 3,000 |
| TIMS Card | 2,000 |
| Accommodation (5 nights) | 1,500–3,000 |
| Meals (5 days, ~3 meals/day) | 10,000–15,000 |
| Miscellaneous (snacks, water, porter tips) | 3,000–5,000 |
| Total Estimated Budget | NPR 22,500–33,000 (approx. USD 170–250) |
For a guided trek with a licensed guide and porter, add approximately NPR 15,000–25,000 for a 5-day trek. This is strongly recommended for first-time trekkers or anyone unfamiliar with the trail.
Pack light but smart. The ridge above High Camp is exposed and cold even in spring.
Photography lovers will be in paradise on this route:
Australian Camp is one of the best early viewpoints on the trek. At sunrise, you can capture Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) glowing above the Pokhara Valley, along with wide panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
This section of the trail is ideal for wide landscape photography. The ridgeline opens up views of Annapurna South and surrounding peaks, framed by rolling green hills and layered mountains.
High Camp offers one of the most iconic views of the entire trek. Early morning light reveals a dramatic face-to-face view of Machhapuchhre, making it a favorite spot for sunrise photography.
At Base Camp, you get closer to the Himalayan giants. This is the best place to capture detailed shots of Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and surrounding glaciers in a raw alpine setting.
On the descent, Siding Village provides excellent opportunities to photograph traditional Gurung village life, terraced fields, and rural Himalayan landscapes.
Bring a camera with a good telephoto lens for mountain detail shots, and a wide-angle for the ridgeline vistas. Golden hour at High Camp (roughly 5:30–6:30 AM) is unmissable.
➤ Yes! The Mardi Himal Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, making it a great choice for beginners with a reasonable fitness level. Proper preparation, pacing, and acclimatization are key. For first-time trekkers, hiring a guide can make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
➤ Most trekkers complete the route in 5 days, including transportation to and from the trailheads. If you prefer a more relaxed journey, you can extend it to 6–7 days with additional rest stops and exploration time.
➤ A guide is not legally required, but it is highly recommended. Weather conditions can change quickly, and trails above High Camp may be less obvious, especially during fog, snow, or the off-season.
➤ Yes. "Madri Himal" is simply a common misspelling. The correct name is Mardi Himal, one of the most scenic trekking routes in Nepal's Annapurna region.
The Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara is one of the finest short treks in the Annapurna region — offering high-altitude panoramas, diverse landscapes, and a genuine sense of adventure without months of preparation. With just 5 days, a moderate fitness level, and the right planning, you can stand at 4,500 m watching the sunrise paint Machhapuchhre in shades of gold.
Whether you're looking to trek independently or want a fully supported guided experience, Orbit Nepal Adventure is here to make your Mardi Himal journey seamless and unforgettable.
Ready to trek? 👉 Contact us on WhatsApp to book your Mardi Himal Trek package, arrange permits, guides, and transport from Pokhara.
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