Mardi Himal Trek . A Hidden Gem of the Annapurna Region
Off the beaten path yet rich in natural beauty, the Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most enchanting short treks, proudly organized by Cosmic Trekking & Expedition. Situated east of the Annapurna Base Camp trail, it offers breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself.
With over 25 years of trekking expertise, Cosmic Trek ensures a perfectly planned 4–6 day adventure filled with lush rhododendron forests, vibrant local culture, and peaceful high altitude landscapes. The trek leads adventurers from Pokhara to Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and finally to the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) a truly rewarding experience for those seeking serenity, scenery, and authentic Himalayan spirit.
Join Cosmic Trekking to discover Mardi where mountains meet mindfulness and every step tells a story.
Clothing and Equipment Check List
Clothing:
- Pair of T-shirts and half pants
- Fleece jacket and warm trousers
- Raincoat & waterproof pants
- Down jacket
- Thermal underwear
- Windproof jacket
- Fleece/wool warm hat
- Baseball or sun hat
- Snow & sun glasses
- Fleece gloves
- Socks – 3/4 pairs (including woolen)
- Trekking shoes
- Light sport shoes
Equipment:
- Small rucksack (daypack)
- Water bottle (metal recommended)
- Medium-sized kit bag
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Sleeping bag (down, -5°C to -10°C)
- Flashlight & batteries
Personal Items:
- Small kit bag for valuables
- Pocket knife (optional)
- Sun cream & lip balm
- Moist towels / wet wipes for hygiene
ITINEARY
Day 1: Pokhara → Kande (by Jeep) → Australian Camp → Pothana → Deurali
After breakfast in Pokhara, drive by Jeep for about 1.5 hours to Kande (1,770m), the starting point of the trek. Begin your hike through lush forests and small villages, reaching Australian Camp and then Pothana, known for stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Continue to Deurali (2,100m) for your overnight stay in a cozy tea house.
Trek time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Deurali
Day 2: Deurali → Forest Camp (2,550m)
The trail leads through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, with peaceful surroundings and occasional mountain glimpses. You’ll arrive at Forest Camp, a quiet and serene stop surrounded by nature.
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Forest Camp
Day 3: Forest Camp → Low Camp (2,990m)
After breakfast, ascend gradually through lush forest paths. As you gain altitude, you’ll start to see clearer views of Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal. The air gets cooler and fresher at Low Camp, where tea houses sit on open ridges with beautiful views.
Trek time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Low Camp
Day 4: Low Camp → High Camp (3,580m)
The trail today climbs along a ridge with breathtaking vistas of Annapurna South and Fishtail. You’ll reach High Camp, the highest tea house stop on the trek, where the sunset and sunrise views are unforgettable.
Trek time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: High Camp
Day 5: High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) → Low Camp
Start early in the morning for the Mardi Himal Base Camp hike. The climb is gradual but rewarding — as the sun rises, the snowy peaks light up in golden colors. Spend time enjoying the panoramic Himalayan view before descending back to Low Camp for a warm meal and rest.
Trek time: 6–7 hours round trip
Overnight: Low Camp
Day 6: Low Camp → Siding Village → Pokhara (by Jeep)
Descend through peaceful forest trails and terraced farmlands to Siding Village (1,700m), where the trek ends. Enjoy lunch in the village and then take a Jeep ride back to Pokhara (approx. 3–4 hours). Arrive in Pokhara by evening with wonderful memories of the Mardi Himal adventure.
Trek time: 3–4 hours
Drive time: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Pokhara (not included)
EXPENSES
Mardi Himal Trek Cost Includes
- 🚐 Pick up & Drop off from Airport / Hotel in Kathmandu and other required places
- 🏙️ Kathmandu Valley sightseeing with professional tour guide
- 🍽️ Meals during the trek – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with tea/coffee in trekking guest houses
- 🏡 Accommodation in trekking area guest houses (twin-sharing basis)
- 🗣️ English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide and necessary supporters/porters
- 👥 Staff costs – food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medical coverage
- ⛑️ Primary First Aid Kit for basic treatment (bandages, medicines, etc.)
- 🪪 Trekking permits & TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) and all necessary official documents
- 🚙 Private transportation (Jeep/Car/Van) from Pokhara to trek start point and return to Pokhara after trek
- 🏔️ All government taxes and official service charges
Mardi Himal Trek Cost Excludes
🧃 Personal drinks and extras – mineral water, soft drinks, desserts, cola, beer, juice, or other personal items
🛂 Nepal entry visa fee and related documentation
✈️ International & domestic flight fares
🍴 Meals in Kathmandu or Pokhara (except trekking days)
🧾 Personal insurance – medical, travel, or emergency evacuation
🎟️ Monument or sightseeing entrance fees, donations, and personal expenses during tours
🚁 Helicopter rescue or evacuation cost in case of emergency
💰 Tips for guides, porters, and staff (at your discretion)
🌧️ Extra expenses due to natural disasters (bad weather, landslides, road blockage, etc.)
