The Mardi Himal Trek is a peaceful and scenic adventure in the eastern Annapurna region, offering a quieter alternative to Nepal’s more popular trekking routes. Starting from Pokhara, the trail winds through charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, and peaceful ridgelines with ever-expanding views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range. As trekkers ascend through Forest Camp and High Camp, the surroundings open into alpine meadows and narrow ridges with dramatic views and thrilling exposure.

The highlight of the trek is reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), a pristine and uncrowded viewpoint with awe-inspiring panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the majestic Machhapuchhre. The descent takes a different path through Sidhing, Lwang, and Hyangjakot, where trekkers can experience authentic village life, terraced fields, and tranquil forests. With moderate difficulty, cozy teahouses, and fewer crowds, Mardi Himal is perfect for fit beginners or seasoned trekkers seeking natural beauty, cultural encounters, and solitude in the Himalayas.

The 12-Day Mardi Himal Trek is an ideal journey for those seeking a peaceful escape into the heart of the Himalayas, offering a quieter and more intimate experience than Nepal’s busier trekking routes. This trek is perfect if you’re drawn to raw mountain beauty, lush forests, and panoramic views without the crowds. Winding through the serene landscapes of the eastern Annapurna region, the trail rewards you with spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli — some of Nepal’s most iconic peaks.

As you ascend gradually through charming villages like Dhampus, Deurali, and Forest Camp, you’ll be immersed in the local Gurung and Magar cultures. Staying in teahouses run by friendly families, you’ll get a taste of authentic Nepalese hospitality and daily life. The trail leads through enchanted rhododendron forests that burst into color in spring, with the sounds of birds and glimpses of wildlife accompanying your every step.

Reaching High Camp, the landscape opens up to expansive alpine ridges with breathtaking, cloud-kissed views. A sunrise hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) is the crowning moment — offering a peaceful, awe-inspiring encounter with the mighty Himalayas. Unlike more commercial treks, Mardi Himal remains relatively untouched, giving you a true sense of wilderness and solitude.

This well-paced itinerary allows for proper acclimatization and cultural immersion. Whether you're a fit beginner or a seasoned trekker looking for something new, the Mardi Himal Trek is a memorable adventure waiting to unfold. If you're craving mountain serenity, deep forest trails, and a soul-refreshing journey — this trek is your perfect match.

Highlights of Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking

• Close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna I (eastern face)
• Peaceful, off-the-beaten-path route — ideal for those seeking less crowded trails
• Scenic ridge walks above clouds with breathtaking alpine panoramas
• Explore vibrant rhododendron forests, especially beautiful in spring (March–April)
• Authentic cultural encounters in Gurung and Magar villages like Dhampus, Deurali, Sidhing, and Lwang
• Diverse landscapes: from subtropical jungles to high alpine meadows
• Stunning sunrise and sunset views from High Camp and viewpoints
• Chance to spot Himalayan wildlife such as langurs, Himalayan monals (Danphe), and various bird species
• Moderate trek suitable for fit beginners and experienced hikers alike
• Cozy teahouse accommodations run by local families
• Trek duration is flexible — typically 5 to 10 days
• Begins and ends in Pokhara, making travel logistics easy
• A great mix of adventure, natural beauty, and local culture in a short timeframe

When is the Best Time for 16 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

The best time for the 12 Days Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the most stable weather, clear skies, and vibrant natural beauty, making your trekking experience both scenic and enjoyable.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek Mardi Himal. The temperature during this season is mild and comfortable, especially at mid and lower elevations. The days are generally sunny with clear mountain views, while nights at higher altitudes can still be cold. What truly sets spring apart is the rhododendron bloom — forests burst into colors of red, pink, and white, turning the trail into a magical floral tunnel. Wildlife activity also increases, and birdwatchers will enjoy spotting Himalayan species during this season.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal and an ideal time for Mardi Himal. After the monsoon clears the air, the skies become exceptionally clear, revealing jaw-dropping views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The trails are dry and well-maintained, and the mild daytime temperatures make for comfortable hiking. Additionally, this season coincides with Nepal’s biggest cultural festivals — Dashain and Tihar — allowing trekkers to experience vibrant local traditions in mountain villages.

The monsoon (June to August) is not recommended for Mardi Himal trekking due to heavy rains, slippery trails, and poor visibility. Leeches, landslides, and flight cancellations are also common during this time. Similarly, winter (December to February) is quite cold, especially above 3,000 meters. While the skies may remain clear and the trails less crowded, snowfall and freezing temperatures at High Camp and Base Camp can make trekking more challenging and require extra preparation.

In conclusion, March to May and September to November are the best times for a successful, safe, and memorable Mardi Himal Base Camp trek. These seasons offer the best combination of weather, scenery, and cultural immersion.

Alternative Treks You Might Want to Explore

If you’re short on time but still want to explore Annapurna Base Camp, we have an offer to make. You can join our Short Trek to Annapurna Base Camp Trekking.

Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

If you are someone who is complete newbie to trek or families planning trekking with kids, Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek could be perfect fit for you. It’s an easy 8 days trek.  We have designed it’s itinerary slow and relaxed walking with plenty of breaks in between. You can still experience majestic mountain views, vibrant villages, local culture without the need for high-altitude challenges in the Annapurna range.

Annapurna Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trekking is a new and exciting trek in Nepal which just opened in 2012. It gained popularity really fast among local trekkers residing in Nepal as well as international trekkers. This trek is not too hard, gentle and gives you memorable views of Mt. Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Many of our trekkers at Blissful Himalayas have shared how much they loved this journey — from walking through peaceful forests to crossing swaying suspension bridges over rushing rivers. Along the way, you’ll enjoy warm Nepali hospitality and delicious local meals like the classic Daal Bhaat.

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The short ABC trek is favourite for the trekkers from all around the world. You’ll see mesmerising mountain views like Annapurna I (8,901m) , Annapurna South (7,219m) and Machapuchhre (6,993m). The interesting thing about this trek is how quickly the landscape changes. One fine day, you’ll pass through green lush forest and another fine day you see snowy peaks. Additionally, along the way, you’ll meet local people and experience their culture. If you are wondering what’s the best part on this 8 day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, it’s watching sunrise over the huge Annapurna mountains. 

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu – Airport pickup and hotel transfer.
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara by tourist bus (6 hrs).
Day 03: Drive to Kande (1 hr), trek to Forest Camp (2,550m) – 4–6 hrs.
Day 04: Trek to Low Camp (2,990m) – 3–4 hrs.
Day 05: Trek to High Camp (3,580m) – 4–6 hrs.
Day 06: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,450m) and return to High Camp – 6–7 hrs.
Day 07: Trek to Sidhing (1,885m) – 4–6 hrs.
Day 08: Trek to Lwang (1,460m) – 4–6 hrs.
Day 09: Trek to Hyangjakot (1,545m), descend to Banskot (1,100m).
Day 10: Short trek and drive back to Pokhara.
Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
Day 12: Final departure or onward travel.

Itinerary flow:

Includes:

✅ Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle

✅ 2-night deluxe hotel at kathmandu with breakfast

✅ 1-night deluxe hotel at Pokhara with breakfast

✅ All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner + tea/coffee at breakfast)

✅ Tea house accommodation during the trek

✅ Ground transportation (local bus or shared jeep as per itinerary)

✅ Licensed English-speaking guide with all expenses and insurance

✅ Monastery entry fees

✅ ACAP permit and TIMS card

✅ Emergency helicopter arrangement (payable if used)

✅ Baggage storage in Kathmandu

Excludes:

❌ Personal Expenses (Drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, alcohol, etc.)

❌ Porter service (available for USD 180 including all expenses)

❌ Personal snacks (chocolates, sweets, etc.)

❌ Personal expenses (laundry, Wi-Fi, tips, etc.)

❌ Hotels and activities in Kathmandu and Pokhara

❌ Private transport (if preferred)

❌ Nepal entry visa fees

Elevation and Altitude Profile

The highest point on the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters. Reaching this viewpoint is the highlight of the journey, offering up-close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. You'll arrive at the base camp after a rewarding hike of 6–7 hours from High Camp (3,580m) along narrow ridgelines and alpine meadows, with panoramic mountain vistas throughout.

The trek typically begins after a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, followed by a gradual ascent through Forest Camp (2,550m), Low Camp (2,990m), and High Camp (3,580m). After reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp and soaking in the views, the descent route takes you through beautiful villages like Sidhing, Lwang, and Hyangjakot. Along the way, you’ll pass through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung settlements, before returning to Pokharaand eventually Kathmandu, completing the scenic 12-day Mardi Himal trekking adventure.

Route Summary of Mardi Himal Base Camp Trekking

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel, giving you time to relax and prepare for the journey ahead. Kathmandu offers a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into Nepal’s unique heritage, setting the tone for the exciting trek to come.

The following morning, you will board a tourist bus for a scenic six-hour drive to Pokhara, a tranquil city nestled beside the stunning Phewa Lake. Pokhara is known as the gateway to the Annapurna region and provides spectacular mountain views along with a peaceful lakeside atmosphere. This is where your trekking journey truly starts.

On day three, you’ll take a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, a small village perched on a hillside with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. From Kande, the trek begins with a steady climb through lush forests and traditional villages, reaching Forest Camp at around 2,550 meters. The trail is surrounded by rhododendron trees and local flora, offering a peaceful introduction to the Himalayan wilderness. Along the way, you may encounter friendly locals and catch glimpses of distant peaks.

The next day, your route takes you higher to Low Camp at 2,990 meters. The trail meanders through a blend of forests and open areas, with increasingly impressive views of the majestic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna ranges. This section is less strenuous but rewarding, giving you more time to acclimate while enjoying the tranquil natural surroundings.

Day five is a bit more challenging as you ascend to High Camp, situated at 3,580 meters. The climb is steeper but the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks become more breathtaking with every step. High Camp serves as a perfect base to rest and prepare for the next day’s highlight.

On day six, you’ll embark on the most exhilarating part of the trek: the hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp, standing at approximately 4,450 meters. The trail passes through alpine meadows and rocky ridges, revealing spectacular 360-degree views of some of Nepal’s most iconic mountains, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. After soaking in the grandeur of the base camp, you’ll return to High Camp for a well-earned rest.

The descent begins on day seven as you trek down to the charming village of Sidhing, located at 1,885 meters. This section of the trail takes you through subtropical forests, terraced farmland, and quiet mountain hamlets, offering a contrast to the high alpine environment you just left. It’s a chance to experience authentic rural Nepali culture and hospitality.

On day eight, the trek continues to Lwang (1,460 meters), another picturesque village where you can enjoy local food and rest. The trail here is gentler, winding through forests and farmland, and providing a relaxed pace to help your body recover.

Day nine involves trekking to Hyangjakot at 1,545 meters, followed by a descent to Banskot (1,100 meters). This portion features more diverse landscapes, including bamboo groves and terraced fields, while allowing for an immersive cultural experience in small rural villages.

On day ten, you’ll enjoy a short trek from Banskot to a convenient roadhead, from where you’ll be driven back to Pokhara. This final trek day offers a relaxed pace and a chance to reflect on your journey through the Annapurna region.

Day eleven involves a scenic bus ride back to Kathmandu, where you can unwind, shop for souvenirs, or explore more of the city’s rich history before your departure.

Finally, on day twelve, your memorable Mardi Himal trekking adventure concludes with your onward travel or departure from Kathmandu, leaving you with lasting memories of Nepal’s pristine mountains, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people.

How is Annapurna Base Camp Trek Different from Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The 4-day trek is a quick, scenic sprint to Mardi Himal Base Camp, while the 12-day trek offers a rich, immersive journey through varied terrain and culture with more time for rest and exploration. Here’s the comparison between Mardi Himal 4 Days Trekking and 12 Days Mardi Himal Trekking.

How Safe is Mardi Himal Trekking?

Mardi Himal Trekking is generally considered a safe and moderate-level trek suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, provided you prepare well and take some basic precautions. The trail is well-marked and less crowded compared to popular routes like Annapurna Base Camp, which contributes to a more relaxed and controlled trekking experience.

Altitude-wise, the highest point on the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,450 meters (14,600 feet). While this is a significant elevation, the trek is planned with gradual altitude gain, giving your body time to acclimatize and reducing the risk of severe altitude sickness. However, some mild symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can still occur, so it’s important to monitor your health carefully.

To stay safe on the trek, consider these tips:

• Always trek with a reputable guide or agency familiar with the region.
• Carry enough water and stay well-hydrated — aim for at least 3 to 4 liters daily.
• Use proper gear and dress in layers to handle changing mountain weather.
• Avoid drinking untreated water; always purify or boil water before drinking.
• Have a basic first aid kit, including medications for altitude sickness, headaches, and stomach issues.
• Make sure your travel insurance covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
• Pay attention to your body’s signals; don’t push yourself too hard and take rest days if needed.

Overall, with proper preparation, a cautious pace, and respect for the mountain conditions, Mardi Himal Trekking is a safe and rewarding adventure into Nepal’s stunning alpine scenery.

I have never trekked before. Does Mardi Himal Trek will be too difficult for me? 

If you’ve never trekked before, Mardi Himal Trek is actually a great choice for your first trekking experience! It’s considered a moderate-level trek, which means it’s challenging enough to give you a real sense of adventure but not so difficult that it’s overwhelming for beginners.

The trail is well-marked and not too crowded, so you can take your time and enjoy the beautiful surroundings without feeling rushed. You’ll hike through diverse landscapes — from lush forests and terraced fields to open alpine meadows — with gradual altitude gain that helps your body adjust comfortably.

That said, you should be reasonably fit and ready to walk 4 to 6 hours a day on uneven terrain. It’s important to prepare physically with some regular walking or light cardio before your trip. Also, having a supportive guide and pacing yourself during the trek will make a huge difference.

So, if you’re excited to explore the Himalayas and willing to take it step by step, Mardi Himal Trek is definitely doable — and it’ll be an unforgettable introduction to trekking!

What should I know before I sign up for the Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek is a stunning adventure through some of Nepal’s most beautiful and less crowded mountain landscapes. While the experience is breathtaking, it’s important to prepare yourself well before stepping into the heart of the Himalayas.

• Altitude Gain & Acclimatization:
  Though Mardi Himal is considered a moderate trek, you’ll still gain significant altitude, reaching up to around 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp. For first-timers, this can cause mild altitude effects like dizziness or fatigue. It’s crucial to stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily and to maintain a steady, slow pace. Taking time to acclimatize at lower camps helps your body adjust safely to the thinner air.
• Physical Endurance:
  Expect to walk 4 to 6 hours daily on uneven, sometimes steep trails. Having a moderate level of fitness is important to comfortably enjoy the trek. If you’re not used to trekking or hiking regularly, some pre-trip walking or cardio exercise will help prepare your body.
• Weather & Seasonal Challenges:
  Mountain weather can be unpredictable and change quickly. During the monsoon season (June to early September), trails may be slippery and visibility poor. Winter can bring cold temperatures and snow at higher elevations. The best times to trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clearer and more stable.
• Remote and Rustic Terrain:
  The trail passes through quiet forests, alpine meadows, and small villages with limited modern facilities. Accommodation is usually simple teahouses offering basic amenities. Medical help or emergency evacuation can take time in this remote region, so mental and physical resilience is important.

If you’re concerned about planning or logistics, Blissful Himalayas will take care of all your needs—from packing advice to accommodation, meals, and ensuring clean drinking water. We also help with communication needs like internet access and emergency support.

Important Things to Consider

It’s a relatively short journey, yet it packs in stunning views and an unforgettable experience. That said, to make the most of it and truly enjoy every moment, a little preparation goes a long way.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind before you hit the trail.

Why is Travel Insurance Required?

Travel insurance is a must when you're heading into the high Himalayas—especially for treks like the Annapurna Base Camp. Here's why it’s so important:

Imagine dealing with a sudden injury, illness, or altitude sickness in the middle of your trek.

✅ Insurance helps you get quick medical care, covers doctor visits, medication, and even helicopter evacuations if needed.

✅ Lost, delayed, or stolen baggage? Covered.

✅ Flight or trip delays? Covered.

✅ Non-refundable bookings like permits, hotels, or flights? Covered too.

Basically, it lets you focus on enjoying trek without the stress of “what ifs”.

Nepal Visa Requirements

You can apply for Nepal Visa in two ways,

Firstly, you can fillout form online through the official government website from your home country. Or you can get a visa on arrival after landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. But remember, only citizens from certain countries are allowed to get visas on arrival.

Nepal offers three types of tourist visas:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days: USD 125

  If you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa after it expires.

To apply for a visa, you’ll need:

• A passport valid for at least six more months
• A few passport-size photos
• Proof of your travel plan, like flight tickets

Preparation for Annapurna Trek

• Get yourself some good-quality gear. Durable, lightweight, and weather-appropriate clothes make a big difference.
• Start training a few months before your trek. You don’t need to be an athlete, but a decent fitness level helps a lot.
• Mix in some cardio and strength workouts—this will boost your stamina and make the hike easier.

Note: Remember, mindset matters!  Stay positive and keep pushing, even when it gets tough. Also, if you have any health concerns, check in with your doctor before the trip.

Trek Smart: Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Acclimatize slowly, hydrate well

✅ Respect local culture and dress modestly

✅ Use Eco-friendly practices

✅ Follow your guide’s advice at all times

❌ Rush uphill — risk of AMS

❌ Take photos of locals without asking

❌ Bargain too hard in remote villages

❌ Leave trash behind

Booking with Us

Trust can be a big worry when booking a trip to a foreign country. Blissful Himalayas is registered trekking agency. We are a trusted and well-known local company. We are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Pacific Asia Travel Association Nepal (PATA Nepal). 

• We provide standard gear and equipment for the trek
• We’ll customize the trek itinerary just for you—based on your interests, fitness level, trekking experience, and how much time you have for the trip
• The airlines we consider for domestic flights are with high standards having high rate of excellence in quality and service
• The guides are well trained for mountain sickness, first aid medication, and emergency management during landslides or any other risk that may arise during the trek.
• The Guides are certified in customer handing via various trainings on aptitude and attitude: they are well behaved and properly service oriented.
• The guides are well aware of risk on the road and have idea of alternative routes with good knowledge on mountain navigation.
• The central management in Kathmandu city office are 24/7 available for handing any case of emergency even in the case of helicopter rescue, hospital arrangement, and others to follow.
• There is a separate safety protocol of the company which each of our staff has signed ensuring that they will behave with the clients and provide information and service to protect our clients throughout the trip.
• The quality of ground transportation vehicle is well checked before departure and safety are always kept as first priority.
• We listen to the clients, their interest and need prior to the trip and act accordingly as per their requirement.

To secure your spot, we require a 10% of trip deposit upfront. You can pay via bank transfer or through online portal. The rest of your payment can be made when you arrive in Nepal using cash, bank transfer, or credit card.

After booking, please send us:

• A copy of your passport
• Passport-sized photos
• Travel insurance documents
• Your flight details

We also have last minute reservations. In this case, you should make a full payment within 24 hours of departure. While we always do our best to stick to the schedule, please understand that some delays may happen that are beyond our control.

Why This Trek with Blissful Himalayas

We also have last minute reservations. In this case, you should make a full payment within 24 hours of departure. While we always do our best to stick to the schedule, please understand that some delays may happen that are beyond our control.
We're more than just a trekking company — we’re your local mountain family. Here’s why travelers trust us:

• Licensed, trained, and experienced guides withfirst-aid, high-altitude, and navigation training
• Flexible itineraries tailored to yourfitness level and travel goals
• Safe, well-maintainedtransport and gear
• Emergency response team on standby 24/7 from Kathmandu
• Clean accommodation andsafe drinking water arrangements
• Respectful, eco-conscious, and culturally sensitive approach

Last-minute booking? No problem. Just let us know and we’ll handle the rest — even within 24 hours of departure.

Link:

PATA Nepal: https://www.pata.org.np/

NTB: https://ntb.gov.np/

TAAN: https://www.taan.org.np/