Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful short treks, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Located in the Annapurna region, this trek takes you off the busy trails and into peaceful forests, charming villages, and stunning ridgelines overlooking the Himalayan giants.
The highlight of the journey is the Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m), which offers magnificent close-up views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and other surrounding peaks. Unlike the popular Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill trails, Mardi Himal offers a quieter and more serene trekking experience, ideal for trekkers looking for a short but rewarding Himalayan adventure.
With its moderate difficulty level, well-established tea houses, and spectacular sunrise and sunset views, Mardi Himal has become the perfect trek for both beginners and experienced trekkers seeking a scenic and less-crowded Himalayan journey.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Altitude: 1,324 meters (4,344 feet)
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, where ancient history meets modern life. A representative of Orbit Nepal Adventure will transfer you to your hotel. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring nearby colorful markets. In the evening, attend a crucial pre-trek briefing for your upcoming Mardi Himal adventure and prepare your gear.
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Altitude: 900mtr(3000ft)
Begin your journey to the heart of the Annapurna region with a 6–7 hour comfortable tourist bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive offers stunning scenic views of Nepal’s rivers, green hills, and rural villages. Upon arrival in the lakeside city of Pokhara, check into your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring Lakeside or taking a peaceful walk by Phewa Lake with views of the Annapurna range.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, drive to Kande, the official starting point of your Mardi Himal trek. Begin your ascent through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional mountain villages. The trail gradually climbs to Deurali, a perfect warm-up for the days ahead. Enjoy the stunning views of Annapurna South and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). The trek takes approximately 5 hours.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s 5-hour trek takes you deeper into the tranquil Annapurna Conservation Area. Hike through dense rhododendron and oak forests, occasionally breaking out into clearings for panoramic mountain vistas. The peaceful environment and crisp mountain air offer a rewarding experience. Overnight at a teahouse in Low Camp.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This challenging yet highly rewarding 6–7 hour trek climbs steadily above the tree line. As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms into dramatic alpine scenery. The views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna South become increasingly spectacular. Reach High Camp by late afternoon and rest well, preparing for the highlight of your expedition.
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up early for the pre-dawn hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp, the highest point of this journey at 4500m. Witness a spectacular Himalayan sunrise over the entire Annapurna range and enjoy incredible close-up views of Mardi Himal itself. After soaking in the views, descend to Badal Danda for your overnight stay. This unforgettable day is filled with achievement and breathtaking scenery.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Begin your descent from Badal Danda down to the village of Sidhing. This 5–6 hour trek takes you through beautiful forests, past waterfalls, and into traditional local villages, offering insight into rural Nepali life. From Sidhing, a 2-hour drive will take you back to the comfort of your hotel in Pokhara for a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, board the comfortable tourist bus for your return scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Spend your final evening shopping for authentic Nepali souvenirs, exploring cultural heritage sites, or enjoying a celebratory farewell dinner in the vibrant Thamel area.
Meals: Breakfast
On your final day in Nepal, a representative of Orbit Nepal Adventure will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. Bid farewell to the Himalayas with unforgettable memories of the Mardi Himal Trek, the warm Nepali hospitality, and breathtaking mountain views.
Best Seasons:
The ideal time for the Mardi Himal Trek is March–May and September–November, with clear skies and excellent views. Winter trekking is also possible but colder.
Accommodation:
Tea houses along the route offer basic rooms with blankets and common dining areas. Meals are freshly prepared in the lodges.
Physical Requirements:
This is a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with average fitness. Expect 4–7 hours of walking daily.
Altitude:
Maximum altitude is 4,500m at Mardi Himal Viewpoint. Altitude sickness risks are moderate—walk slowly and stay hydrated.
Weather:
Mountain weather can change quickly. Bring warm layers, waterproof jackets, gloves, and a hat.
Electricity & Wi-Fi:
Paid charging and Wi-Fi are available in most tea houses, but connections may be slow at higher altitudes.
Water:
Filtered or boiled water is available. Carry a reusable bottle.
Guide & Porter:
A licensed guide ensures safety, navigation, and a culturally rich experience. Porters carry your main luggage, making your trek more comfortable.
It’s considered moderate. Anyone with normal fitness can complete it. No prior trekking experience is required.
The highest point is Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,200m.
Yes! Many first-time trekkers choose Mardi Himal because it’s short, scenic, and not too challenging.
Basic tea houses with simple rooms, blankets, and shared bathrooms.
Tea houses serve Dal Bhat, soups, noodles, rice, pasta, potatoes, eggs, and other local foods. Vegetarian options available.
A guide is recommended for safety, navigation, and better cultural experience. The trail has some unclear sections.
