- +977 9841682963
- explorenepaltrails1@gmail.com, info@explorenepaltrails.com
- Swoyambhu, Kathmandu, Nepal
The Mardi Himal Trek follows forest paths and mountain ridges in Nepal’s Annapurna region, with views towards Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli when the skies are clear. The journey changes as you climb, moving from village surroundings and sheltered woodland to open slopes above the forest.
Our 11-day Mardi Himal trek package brings together the walking journey and travel through Kathmandu and Pokhara. From Pokhara, the listed itinerary approaches the trail at Phedi and continues through Dhampus and Pothana towards Forest Camp and the higher Mardi ridge. The descent leads towards Siding before returning to Pokhara.
For many travellers, the appeal is this variety within one journey: village paths, forest walking and close mountain views. The route still requires preparation, with sustained climbs, steep descents and higher-altitude walking.
Explore Nepal Trails is based in Kathmandu. Tell us about your travel dates and previous trekking experience, and we can explain the daily programme, discuss the arrangements and help you decide whether this trek fits your plans.
Explore Nepal trails stuff pick you up from airport transfer to hotel and preparation day for your trip
We will start our day early for a 6–7-hour road trip from Kathmandu to the scenic city of Pokhara. You will enjoy beautiful hills and villages along the way. Pokhara is a beautiful city known for its stunning mountain views and serene lakes. We will spend the night there.
Early in the morning, we will drive for one hour to reach Phedi and start our Mardi Himal trek. We will climb the stairs from Phedi. The trail ascends all the way to Pothana through rhododendron and pine forests till we reach the Dhampus, a Gurung village known for the magnificent views of Annapurna ranges, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu. We will continue our ascent until we reach the small village of Pothana, surrounded by forests and exhibiting marvelous mountain views. We will also get the TIMS/ACAP card at the checkpoint in Pothana. Overnight in Pothana.
After a hearty breakfast, we will start our trek with a steep uphill climb through thick forest along with the beautiful views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The forest is the home to many rare wildlife and we may catch glimpse of some of the rare birds and animals along the way. After walking for around five hours, we will reach the forest camp where we will set up camp for the night.
The trail from the Forest camp to the high camp follows a steep ascent through the rhododendron and juniper forest. The pattern for the day is a steeper climbing to get over a hillock, then relatively flat for a while and again start the ascent. Upon reaching the top, we will be highly rewarded with the magnificent, breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and Mount Macchapuchre.
We will rise early to appreciate the spectacular sunrise view over the Annapurna range from the high Camp. After breakfast, we will start our ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp, which stands at 5300 meters. The trek is challenging with a walk along a narrow, rocky trail. The hardship of the day is generously rewarded with the stunning mountain views along with the pristine surroundings at the Mardi Himal Base Camp. After spending some time at the base camp, we will retrace our steps back to high camp.
We will retrace our steps and follow a steep descent to low camp from where we will trek into the forest to Mardi Khola. After a delightful walk along the river and the forest, we will reach a warm and hospitable village of Siding.
After a hearty breakfast, we will start our easy descent to Lumre. The trail follows the contour of the Mardi River valley and gradually descends down the pastures through beautiful Tamang and Gurung Villages. Our transport will wait for us at Lumre for a one hour drive to Pokhara.
After exploring the beauty of Pokhara city, we will take a six-hour drive to Kathmandu. We will enjoy the beauty of the nearby villages, rivers, and hills along our way back. Then, this beautiful adventure will have come to an end. May you enjoy the rest of your stay in Nepal.
Shopping enjoyable day after completion of week-long trip in the Himalayan.
This is the day to safely return to your homeland from Intl airport.
Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are the usual seasons to consider for the Mardi Himal Trek. Weather can change during either season, so clear views and access to the upper trail should never be taken for granted.
H3: Spring – March to May
Spring offers the possibility of rhododendron flowers along the forest sections. Lower parts of the trek become warmer as the season progresses, while higher overnight stops can remain cold. Cloud and haze may affect mountain visibility.
H3: Autumn – September to November
Autumn follows the summer monsoon and is a popular period for trekking in the Annapurna region. It is a good season to consider for mountain scenery, although conditions vary from day to day. Expect colder mornings and evenings as winter approaches.
H3: Winter and Monsoon
Winter can bring snow and ice to the upper route. During the monsoon, rain can make trails slippery and clouds can limit the views. Discuss your dates with our team so the planned route reflects the conditions expected during your visit.
The best time for the Mardi Himal Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Annapurna range, making them ideal for trekking.
The highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). While this is not extremely high compared to some other treks in the Annapurna region, proper acclimatization is still necessary to avoid altitude sickness.
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for beginners with moderate fitness levels. It does not involve technical climbing, and most of the route is on well-defined trails. However, some sections are steep, so being in good physical shape will enhance the experience.
The highlights of the trek include:
Mardi Himal Base Camp: Stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri.
Ghorepani Poon Hill: If you take the extended route, this is a famous viewpoint for the sunrise over the Annapurna range.
Rhododendron Forests: Trek through lush forests, especially in spring, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.
Local Villages: Experience the culture of the Gurung and Magar communities and visit traditional villages like Siding and Pitam Deurali.
The terrain is varied, with sections passing through forests, riverside paths, high alpine meadows, and rocky trails as you ascend towards Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek involves some steep uphill climbs and descents, especially towards the base camp, but is manageable for most trekkers with proper preparation.
Although Mardi Himal does not reach extreme altitudes, acclimatization is still important. Take the trek slowly, drink plenty of water, and avoid ascending too quickly. Spend a night at key points like Forest Camp and High Camp for proper acclimatization.
Essential items include:
Layered clothing: For varying temperatures (warm layers for the cold evenings and lighter layers for daytime trekking).
Trekking boots: Durable and comfortable for long days of walking.
Sleeping bag: Rated for cold weather, especially for higher camps.
Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Water purifier: A filter or purification tablets to ensure clean drinking water along the way.
First aid kit: Basic supplies to treat minor injuries or illnesses.
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