Mardi Trek in Nepal is a scenic and less-crowded trail that offers breathtaking views of Machapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), the Annapurna range, and lush landscapes. This short yet rewarding trek takes you through traditional villages, terraced fields, and rhododendron forests, providing a rich cultural experience with local Gurung hospitality. The trail is perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful journey with stunning Himalayan panoramas.
Ideal for beginners and those with limited time, Mardi Himal Trek combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty. It’s an unforgettable trekking experience in the heart of Nepal’s majestic Annapurna region. Perfect for a short, scenic adventure.
Trip Facts
Trip Code
Mardi FCT
Duration
10 Days
Max. Altitude:
4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at Mardi Himal Base Camp
Group size
Minumum 2
Best Time for Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Activity
Trekking
Meals
B&B , B/L/D
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
LOCATION
Annapurna region, Nepal
Trip Starts
Kande (1-2 hours’ drive from Pokhara)
Trip Ends
Siding or back to Pokhara (depending on the route)
Mardi Trek highlights:
- Incredible Mountain Views: Enjoy awe-inspiring vistas of the iconic Annapurna, Machapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal, with their snow-capped peaks dominating the horizon.
- Mardi Himal Base Camp: Reach the base camp at 4,500 meters for close-up views of Mardi Himal and the surrounding majestic mountains, offering a sense of serenity and awe.
- Scenic Villages and Local Culture: Wander through picturesque villages like Siding and Forest Camp, where you’ll experience the hospitality and traditions of the Gurung and Magar communities.
- Rhododendron Forests: Trek through vibrant forests, especially in spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom, creating a colorful and peaceful atmosphere.
- Wildlife and Nature: The trail passes through lush greenery, with opportunities to spot wildlife like monkeys, Himalayan tahr, and a variety of birds, as well as diverse plant life.
- Panoramic Viewpoints: Stop at several scenic viewpoints along the way to soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the surrounding valleys.
- Authentic Tea Houses: Stay in charming tea houses run by locals, where you can rest and sample traditional Nepali food and immerse yourself in the trekking culture during the Mardi trek.
- Close to Pokhara: The trek is easily accessible from Pokhara, making it a perfect option for those looking for an adventure close to this vibrant city while still experiencing the beauty of the Himalayas.
Overview
If you’re dreaming of a pristine, high-altitude journey without spending weeks on the trail, the Mardi Trek is the ultimate mountain escape. Tucked away in Nepal’s legendary Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal Trek is rapidly becoming the go-to alternative for travelers who want dramatic mountain panoramas without the heavy tourist crowds of traditional routes.
This trail takes you on a dramatic, ridge-line journey straight to the foot of the sacred Mount Machapuchare and the majestic Mardi Himal base camp at 4,500 meters.
Why Choose the Mardi Himal Trek?
When looking for the best short treks in Nepal, few routes can match the sheer variety of landscapes and accessibility that the Mardi trail offers. It is one of those rare, magical trails where you can start your morning in a warm, subtropical forest and end your afternoon standing on a windswept, alpine ridge looking directly at 7,000-meter peaks.
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Breathtaking Alpine Panoramas: Get completely uninterrupted, face-to-face views of iconic peaks like Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
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A Quieter Mountain Journey: Unlike the busier classic routes, the ridge trails here keep you away from the heavy commercial crowds, letting you experience the quiet serenity of the Himalayas.
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Authentic Tea House Hospitality: Along the route, you will spend your nights in welcoming, local teahouses in legendary trail stops like Deurali, Forest Camp, and Low Camp. It’s an incredible window into real Gurung and Magar mountain culture.
Choosing the Right Mardi Trek Itinerary
One of the greatest features of this route is its absolute flexibility. While your perfect Mardi trek itinerary depends heavily on your physical fitness and timeline, the route can easily adapt to your travel windows.
The Standard 5-Day Loop (Most Popular)
For active hikers, a 5 day Mardi Himal trek itinerary is the absolute sweet spot. Starting with a short scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, you will steadily climb through lush rhododendron forests up to High Camp, push for the base camp summit, and loop back down through Siding village. This quick turnaround makes it one of the most practical and best short treks in Nepal for travelers on a tighter schedule.
Extended & Combined Variations
If you have a wider holiday window, you can easily slow the pace down to a 7-to-10-day itinerary. This allows for deeper acclimatization, extra photography days at beautiful viewpoints like Badal Danda, or seamless combinations with neighboring trails like Poon Hill or the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
Experiencing a Safe Himalayan Trek with First Camp Trek
The Himalayas are incredibly rewarding, but high-altitude mountain environments demand real respect. Ensuring a safe himalayan trek means managing your acclimatization properly and understanding local conditions.
Under Nepal’s current safety policies, all international trekkers are required to hike with a registered professional. At First Camp Trek, your safety is our absolute priority. Our hand-picked team consists of certified, highly experienced local experts who know every twist, turn, and weather pattern of the Annapurna sanctuary.
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Hassle-Free Permit Handling: We take care of your entire registration process and secure your mandatory ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) so you can focus 100% on the trail.
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No Technical Climbing Needed: While the final push from High Camp to the 4,500m Mardi Himal Base Camp is steep and demanding, the trail is entirely non-technical. It is perfectly achievable for beginners with decent baseline fitness.
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Sustainable, Small-Group Guiding: We believe in small, intimate group sizes that respect the environment and ensure you get personalized pacing, authentic care, and reliable safety backups on the mountain.
Ready to Stand Under the Peaks?
The sweeping ridges of Mardi Himal are waiting for you. Whether you want to customize a fast-paced mardi trek itinerary or want to learn about other stunning trekking options in Nepal, our team is ready to build your perfect adventure.
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Drop us an email: Get a free, personalized trip quote at info@firstcamptrek.com
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Chat with an expert on WhatsApp: Message our local team directly at +977 9814160683
Looking for more trekking inspiration?
Mardi Trek Itinerary
Accommodation
Overnight stay in Kathmandu
Meal
Bed and Breakfast
Arrival: Arrival at Tribhuvan international Airport, our officials will pick you up at the airport.
Acclimatization: You will be dropped at the hotel for rest and acclimatization.
Evening: Explore Thamel and surrounding areas, local shops and restaurants.
Accommodation
Stay in Pokhara
Meal
Bed and Breakfast
Morning: Start with a scenic 6–7-hour drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, enjoying the views of the countryside, rivers, and mountains along the way.
Afternoon: Once in Pokhara( gateway for Mardi Trek), check into your hotel and take a relaxing stroll around Phewa Lake. Explore the lakeside area and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Overnight: Stay in Pokhara, prepare for the trek ahead, and rest up for the adventure.
Accommodation
Stay at a cozy tea house in Australian Camp
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Morning: After breakfast, take a 1.5-2-hour drive from Pokhara to Kande, the starting point of the trek.
Trek: From Kande, begin a 1.5-2-hour hike through dense forests and up to Australian Camp. Along the way, you’ll get your first taste of stunning views of Annapurna and Machapuchhre (Fishtail).
Overnight: Stay at a cozy tea house in Australian Camp and enjoy a warm meal while gazing at the mountains.
Accommodation
Stay in a local tea house
Meal
Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Trek Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours.
Today’s trail takes you through enchanting rhododendron and oak forests. The path winds through small villages, and as you climb, you’ll be treated to ever-improving views of Annapurna South and Mardi Himal.
Destination: Reach Forest Camp in the afternoon and take some time to relax in the natural surroundings.
Overnight: Stay in a local tea house, breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Accommodation
Stay at Low Camp
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration: Around 3-4 hours.
Today’s hike is more relaxed as you continue upward. As you leave the forest behind, the landscape opens up, giving you magnificent views of the Mardi Himal and Machapuchhre peaks.
Destination: Arrive at Low Camp, a peaceful spot with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight: Stay at Low Camp and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere.
Accommodation
Teahouse in High Camp
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours.
As you climb higher, the alpine meadows replace the forests, and the crisp mountain air becomes more refreshing. From High Camp, you’ll have stunning close-up views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and Machapuchhre.
Destination: Reach High Camp in the afternoon. It’s a perfect spot to rest and take in the incredible views that surround you.
Overnight: Enjoy a peaceful night at High Camp, under the starry Himalayan sky.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Today’s the big day! Early in the morning, set out for the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters). The trek to the base camp is challenging but worth every step which is the beauty of Mardi Trek.
Highlight: From Base Camp, you’ll get panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range, Mardi Himal, and Fishtail, as well as the surrounding glaciers.
After soaking in the views, descend back to High Camp for the night.
Accommodation
Stay in Pokhara and enjoy a relaxing evening
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours.
Begin your descent, retracing your steps through the forests and villages back to Siding.
From Siding, take a short 1.5-hour drive back to Pokhara, where you can relax, reflect on your journey, and perhaps enjoy a well-earned meal by the lake.
Accommodation
Hotel in Kathmandu
Meal
Bed and Breakfast
In the morning, take the scenic 6–7-hour drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.
Once back in Kathmandu, take some time to explore the city or simply unwind after your trek. Your safe himalayan trek is now completed.
End of Mardi Himal Trek: You’ve completed an unforgettable journey through the stunning Annapurna region!
Flight Home: Our officials will guide you till airport for your safe journey back home.
Note: The itinerary can be adjusted based on your individual needs and available days.
Mardi Trek Price Includes:
- English speaking Trekking Guide and Porter: English speaking guide with one porter for two paying customer. Each porter can carry a weight of up to 20kgs.
- Transport: (Kathmandu- Pokhara-Kathmandu) via Tourist Bus
- Transport ;(Pokhara-Kande-Pokhara) via Private Car
- Airport pick and drop facilities via private coach.
- All necessary documents.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Bed and Breakfast
- Accommodation in trek: Full Board (B/L/D) During Trekking
- Our staff’s insurance
Mardi Himal Trek Price excludes:
- Anything else that is not included in the Mardi Trek itinerary package
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Sightseeing if you want to visit around Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Personal insurance and other personal expenses.
- Tips for trekking staffs (Tipping is expected)
- Bar bill (beer, Coldrinks, hot chocolates, etc.), hot shower, battery charge, internet, telephone call expenses and other additional services available at various lodges and tea shops in the trekking routes.
Equipment
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey, trekkers need essential gear including:
- Warm clothes including base layer, middle layer and outer layer of clothes.
- Trekking pants, shorts, hats, sunglasses, gloves, socks, scarfs
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Insulating layers
- A good-quality sleeping bag
- Bath towel
- Trekking poles
- Sun protection.
- A daypack for daily essentials and a duffel bag for extra gear are crucial for long days on the trail.
- GPS altimeter
- Water purification tools and water bottles
- First-aid kits
- Headlamp/Flashlight
- Personal Items (Necessary gears such as phone, camera, power bank, guidebooks, maps, etc.)
- All necessary documents and their copies
- Maps and travel guides
- Food/Chocolate
FAQ for Mardi Trek
Yes, the Mardi Trek is considered safe. However, as with any trek in high altitudes, it’s important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. First Camp Trek specializes in ensuring safe Himalayan Trek in Nepal.
The Trek is considered moderate in difficulty, suitable for beginners with basic fitness levels. It involves some steep ascents and descents but does not require technical climbing skills.
While it’s possible to trek independently, hiring a guide and porter is recommended for safety, navigation, and a more enriching experience. They also help carry your gear.
You will find teahouses or guesthouses along the trail, offering basic accommodations with meals like dal bhat, noodles, and rice.
The highest point of the Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet).
The best time for Trek is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons, offering clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain views.
Yes, there are teahouses along the route where you can buy meals and bottled water. However, it’s advisable to carry a water purifier or purification tablets for extra safety.
The Mardi Trek is widely considered the best short trek in Nepal for 2026. While the iconic Poon Hill is famous for sunrises, the Mardi Himal Trek has become the top choice for modern travelers because it offers a "high-altitude" experience (reaching 4,500m) in just 5 days.
Consumer reviews
We just completed the Mardi Himal Trek, and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
A huge thank you to our amazing guides, Sushil and Ashish, and our wonderful porters, Dhil Badr, Surya, and Miran. From the very beginning, they took such great care of us and always made sure we were safe, comfortable, and well looked after throughout the journey.
Not only were they incredibly hardworking and dependable, but they were also some of the kindest, most genuine, and fun people to be around. No matter how tough the trek got, they were always ready to help with a smile, and they truly made the entire experience so much more enjoyable.
This trip brought me so much happiness, peace, and gratitude. The mountains were beautiful, but it was the people who made the journey unforgettable.
11/10 would recommend First Camp Trek to anyone considering a trek in Nepal. I know I’ll definitely be keeping in touch with Sushil, Ashish, Surya, Miran, and Dhil Badr long after this trip ends.
Wishing First Camp Trek and the entire crew continued success, happiness, and countless blessings. Thank you for giving us such an incredible experience and memories that we’ll cherish forever.
Thank you so much, First Camp Trek! ❤️
-Hazel-
Hazel
CustomerThank you First Camp Trek for an unforgettable experience! I was so nervous to visit Nepal for the first time, do my first multi-day hike and hike at high altitude for the first time, but the First Camp Trek Team made me feel so well taken care of – I just had to follow their lead.
Sushil and his assistant guide Aashish were organised, knowledgeable and friendly, and our porters (Surya, Dhil Bhadri and Miran) were so kind and helpful. I knew this trip would be challenging and rewarding – but I didn’t expect it to be so much fun. Not just the hikes but all our experiences in between: the card games, the paddle boarding on Fewa Lake, the endless laughter over meals. Really grateful to have had this experience, and definitely hope to come back to Nepal again soon!
Atia Hanna
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