Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of those rare trails that still feels like a well-kept secret. Tucked in the Annapurna region, just below the more famous Annapurna Base Camp route, this peaceful path offers a quieter, more personal experience for trekkers who prefer solitude over crowds. Even in the busiest trekking months, you’ll often find yourself walking alone through forests filled with birdsong and the soft crunch of leaves underfoot. 

What makes this trek stand out is the climb up to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet). And from there, you get stunning views of Machhapuchhre(Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. But it’s just as rewarding making the trip. You will pass through remote villages, share greetings with the locals, and catch a glimpse of the daily life of the Gurung people, whose hospitality and friendly attitude are every bit as much a highlight as the scenery. 

This hike is suitable for anyone with a general level of fitness. The trails are not too technical, and the summit, Upper View Point at 4,250 meters (13,940 feet), can be reached without mountaineering skills. 

Along the way, you’ll walk under blooming pink rhododendrons, sip tea in simple mountain cabins, and watch clouds drift over snow-capped peaks. If what you’re looking for is a trek that blends mountain beauty with cultural sharing—and a bit of breathing room from the tourism chaos—then Mardi Himal is a perfect choice. Low-key, stunning, and in its own quiet way, this is one trek that stays with you long after returning back down to earth. 

Best Seasons for Mardi Himal Trek

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is hands down the best time to trek Mardi Himal. The weather is just about perfect—clear skies, mild days, and crisp nights. The views? Absolutely stunning. On a good day, you’ll get crystal-clear panoramas of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and even Dhaulagiri. It’s also the safest season, with dry trails that make walking easy and enjoyable. While it’s the most popular time of year, the beauty of the landscape more than makes up for the extra people on the trail. If your goal is breathtaking mountain views with stable, pleasant weather, this is the season to aim for.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is another fantastic time to hit the Mardi Himal trail. The days start to warm up, and although it’s still cold up high, it’s usually quite comfortable with the right gear. What makes spring really special are the blooming rhododendrons—whole hillsides burst into red, pink, and white flowers, turning the forest paths into something straight out of a fairytale. The skies remain mostly clear, offering great mountain views, and the trails aren’t quite as busy as in autumn. It’s a colorful, vibrant time to be in the mountains.

Winter (December to February)

Winter on the Mardi Himal trail is cold, quiet, and incredibly peaceful. If you’re someone who enjoys solitude and doesn’t mind braving the cold, this season has a unique charm. Snow often covers the higher stretches, turning the landscape into a snowy wonderland—but it also means tougher walking conditions and chilly nights. You’ll need proper winter gear, especially if you’re planning to go beyond the lower camps. The upside? Fewer trekkers, silent trails, and some magical mountain scenes all to yourself.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

Summer is monsoon season in Nepal, and it’s the least ideal time for the Mardi Himal Trek. Expect daily rains, muddy and slippery trails, and limited mountain views due to heavy cloud cover. The risk of landslides is higher, and the overall trekking experience tends to be more difficult and damp. That said, the landscapes are lush and green, and if you’re an experienced hiker who doesn’t mind the challenge—or you’re just looking for total solitude—it might still be doable. But for most, it’s a season best avoided.

Mardi Himal Trek Short Itinerary

Day 01:
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m) and transfer to your hotel.

Day 02:
Drive to Pokhara (900 m) by tourist bus – approximately 7 to 8 hours. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 03:
Drive to Kande (1,770 m) – 2 to 3 hours. Trek to Australian Base Camp (2,060 m) – 3 to 4 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 04:
Trek to Forest Camp (2,600 m) – 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 05:
Trek to High Camp (3,550 m) – 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 06:
Trek to Upper View Point (4,250 m) – 2 to 3 hours. Continue to Base Camp(4,120 m) – 4 to 5 hours. Return to Low Camp (3,050 m) – 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 07:
Trek to Landruk (1,565 m) – 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 08:
Trek to Syauli Bazaar (1,220 m) – 3 to 4 hours. Drive to Pokhara (900 m) – 2 to 3 hours. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 09:
Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus – 7 to 8 hours. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 10:
Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your final departure flight.

Mardi Himal Trek Packing List
To prepare you for the Mardi Himal Trek, we’ve put together this extensive packing list. It’s an excellent starting point, and you’ll need to adjust it according to your personal requirements. Remember to dress in layers, especially for winter. If needed, you can rent a sleeping bag and down jacket for USD 35 each in Kathmandu.

Essential Gear and Equipment: 
• Puffy down jacket (Rentable for an additional USD 20)
• Four-season sleeping bag (Rentable for an additional USD 35)
• Daypack (35-45 liters suggested) with rain cover

Upper Body Equipment
• Sun hat or cap
• Knitted hat/Beanie
• Scarfy or neck gaiter
• Headlamp (with spare batteries)
• Sunglasses

Torso Clothing
• Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer conditions, heavier for colder conditions)
• Technical fabric shirts (2 short-sleeve, 2 long-sleeve)
• Windproof and waterproof shell jacket
• Fleece pullover or jacket for extra warmth

Lower Body Gear
• Technical fabric base layer (light for warm weather, heavier for cold weather)
• Hiking pants (2 pairs)
• Loose-fitting pants for teahouse rest
• Waterproof/windproof shell pants
• Hiking shorts for warm weather days
Hand Gear
• Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
• Insulated outer gloves (for cold weather)

Footwear and Accessories
• Wool or technical fabric socks (4-6 pairs)
• Hiking socks (2-3 pairs)
• Liner socks (optional, i.e., silk or lightweight material)
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Ice Cleats/Micro Spikes (to be worn from November to March for grip on icy or wet surfaces)
• Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavier ones for snow during cold months)
• Footwear to change into after walks

Undergarments
• Moisture-wicking underwear (technical clothing is better for comfort and drying)
• Sports bras (for women)
• Pyjamas or comfortable sleeping clothes
Health and First Aid Essentials
(Comment: Guides carry first aid kits, but we recommend that you bring your own personal items)
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Ointments (for small cuts or skin protection)
• Personal medication (if needed)

Miscellaneous Necessities
• Photocopies and passport-sized photos of passport
• Reusable water bottle (insulated best)
• Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you will be purifying your own water)
• Hydration bladder (to have water easily accessible)
• Towel (quick-drying)
• Pillowcase (for your pillow in teahouse)
• Toilet paper (2 rolls, or as needed)
• High-energy snacks (e.g., protein bars, nuts, or trail mix)
• Waterproof bags to keep valuable items and cash dry
• Air tickets (Leave a copy with us at our Kathmandu office in case of a change in your flight itinerary)

Optional Gear
Other gear can be purchased upon arrival in Nepal, in Thamel, Kathmandu’s shopping hub where you can comparatively find trekking gear.
• Extra batteries or power bank (for charging electronics)
• Phone and camera (for calling and taking photos)
• Playing cards or a book for entertainment
• Trekking poles (for better balance)
• Whistle (for signaling in case of emergency)
• Thermos (for having hot beverages along the trail)

FAQs for Mardi Himal Trek

1. What is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a scenic trek in Nepal’s Annapurna district, renowned for its stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. It is a fairly off-the-beaten-path trek as opposed to other treks in the region, offering a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience through beautiful forests, villages, and stunning mountain vistas.

2. What is the ideal time to trek Mardi Himal? 
Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the ideal seasons to trek Mardi Himal. These seasons are the periods when the weather is fine and the skies are clear, giving the best views of the mountains. The trek could be done during winter or summer but may be a little challenging during these periods due to the cold or heavy rain.

3. How challenging is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is of moderate level, and one with a minimum level of fitness will be able to complete it. The highest altitude on the trek is 4,250 meters (Upper Viewpoint), and the trek usually takes 7-10 days to finish. If you have prior experience of shorter treks or hiking, you will be able to do it. But acclimatization is necessary to prevent altitude sickness.

4. Do I need to have past trekking experience for Mardi Himal? 
Not at all necessary, but it would be prudent to have a general level of fitness. Physical fitness will go well in assisting you through moderate ascents and descents along the trek. If you’re a beginner trekkers should acclimatize by performing some regular walks or hikes in order to build up endurance.

5. What are the types of accommodations on the Mardi Himal Trek? 
Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek is typically in guesthouses, called teahouses. They are basic, but cozy with a hot bed and a roof over your head. As you go higher, the facilities become simpler. But they do serve local food, and it is fresh and satisfying.

6. What food is available during the Mardi Himal Trek?
Food is available on trekking days (Day 3 to Day 8). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served in the guesthouses along the way. The food usually consists of local Nepalese cuisine such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Fresh fruits are also available on most days depending on the season.

7. What do I bring for the Mardi Himal Trek? 
You should pack accordingly according to varying temperatures. Some of the essentials are warm clothing, rain jacket, decent trekking shoe, sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen), headlamp, and water purification tablets. You can have a look at an exhaustive list of what to bring in our Mardi Himal Trek Packing List section.

8. Is there any risk of altitude sickness during the Mardi Himal Trek? 
Because the summit of the Mardi Himal Trek is 4,250 meters (Upper Viewpoint), there is a risk of altitude sickness. However, the trek is scheduled with enough acclimatization days such that this risk is minimal. You need to drink plenty of water, not exert yourself, and listen to your body. In case you feel signs of altitude sickness, it is extremely important to descend and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

9. How long does the Mardi Himal Trek last?
The Mardi Himal Trek typically lasts for 7-10 days. The duration of the trek will depend on the route taken and how fast you are trekking. The itinerary includes a combination of drives and trekking days with sufficient time for acclimatization and rest.

10. Is a guide required for the Mardi Himal Trek? 
While you can technically do the Mardi Himal Trek independently, we highly recommend hiring a licensed trekking guide. Not only will a guide ensure your safety and provide local knowledge, but they will also help with navigation, carry some gear, and provide insight into the local culture. Additionally, you will need a guide to help with permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area.

11. What are the permits required for the Mardi Himal Trek? 
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need two important permits:
•Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
•Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Both of these permits can be arranged by your trekking agency or in Kathmandu before your departure.

12. Can the Mardi Himal Trek be undertaken by solo trekkers? 
Although the Mardi Himal Trek can be undertaken by solo trekkers, it is advisable to trek with a guide, especially if you are inexperienced in high-altitude trekking. The trekking trail is not busy, and trekking with a guide ensures your safety and enables you to trek without any issues.

13. Can I rent equipment for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes, trekking gear, including sleeping bags, down jackets, and other gear, can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara. This is an economical option for those who do not wish to buy new trekking gear.

14. Will there be electricity or Wi-Fi on the Mardi Himal Trek? 
Wi-Fi and electricity are present in a few villages on the trek, particularly around the big guesthouses. But the quality and availability might not be great. It is recommended to have a power bank to charge your gadgets as electricity is not always reliable at high altitudes.

15. What happens if I get ill or injured during trekking?
If you get ill or injured, your trekker guide can help you by locating medical facilities. This could become a high-altitude evacuation, depending on the medical condition. Make sure you have complete travel insurance with an emergency evacuation clause.

What Makes This Package Special