The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the fastest ways in Nepal to get above 4,000 metres on a short trip, reaching close-up views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), and Gangapurna Himal (7,454m) in just 10 days. Despite this dramatic scenery, the trail remains one of the least crowded routes in the Annapurna region, overshadowed by the more famous Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp treks.
The trail climbs steadily through dense rhododendron and bamboo forest, with regular sightings of Himalayan Thar, long-tailed langurs, and pheasant species including Danphe, Kalij, and Monal. As the trail breaks above the treeline near Badal Danda, the views open dramatically across Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and the unmistakable fishtail peak of Machhapuchhre. A growing network of teahouses along the route now makes this a comfortable trek as well as a quiet one.
The route begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, then climbs through Australian Camp, Pothana, and Pitam Deurali before continuing to Low Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp itself. The descent runs via Siding back to Pokhara, where most trekkers finish with a relaxed boat ride on Phewa Lake before returning to Kathmandu. For a comparably short trek with an even gentler profile, see our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, or browse our full range of Annapurna treks.
Duration: 10 days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu) | Max Altitude: 4,500m (Mardi Himal High Camp/Viewpoint) | Trek Grade: Moderate | Starts/Ends: Pokhara | Best Season: March-May, October-November | Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara, teahouses on trek | Permits Required: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card
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How long is the Mardi Himal Trek?
This trek typically takes 10 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including transport days to and from Pokhara. The core trekking portion covers around 5 to 6 days.
How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
This is a moderate trek reaching 4,500m at the High Camp viewpoint, one of the fastest ways in Nepal to get above 4,000m in a short trip. Trails are steep in sections through forest, with good teahouse accommodation throughout.
Why choose Mardi Himal over other Annapurna treks?
Mardi Himal is one of the least crowded trekking routes in the Annapurna region, offering close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range without the trail traffic of the Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani Poon Hill routes.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
No prior experience is required, though a good level of fitness is recommended for the steep forest sections.
Getaway Nepal Adventure (P.) Ltd.
Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel: +977 98510 38 908
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