What kind of accommodation is available on the Mardi Himal Trek?

Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek is mainly in local teahouses and homestays. These offer basic but comfortable rooms, simple bedding, shared facilities, and home-cooked meals such as dal bhat, soups, noodles, and other Nepali and Tibetan-style dishes.

Do I need a guide or porter for the Mardi Himal Trek?

While it is possible to trek Mardi Himal independently, hiring a licensed local guide and/or porter is strongly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insight. A guide can help you manage the pace, explain local traditions, and adjust the itinerary in case of weather or altitude issues.

Seasons:

Spring / Autumn

Mardi Himal Trek

Q: What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek?

The best seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally stable, the skies are clear, and you can enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna range and Machapuchare.

Q: How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek. There is no technical climbing involved, but you will hike up to around 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp. Daily walking times typically range from 3 to 7 hours, so good physical fitness and some prior hiking experience are recommended.

Q: What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?

For the Mardi Himal Trek, you typically need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.

Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short treks, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Nestled in the Annapurna region, this 15-day journey takes you from the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the peaceful lakeside town of Pokhara, and then high into the Himalayas where the majestic Machapuchare (Fishtail Peak) and Annapurna South dominate the skyline.

Trip Fact

Price

On Request

Duration

14 Days

Altitude

4500 M

Group Size

01+ Pax

Accommodation

Hotel

Trip Start From

Kande

Trip Ends At

Melbot

Why Choose This Trip?

1. Unparalleled Mountain Views Without the Crowds

Unlike the busier Annapurna or Everest routes, the Mardi Himal Trek offers equally stunning panoramas of Annapurna, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli — all in a peaceful, uncrowded setting. You’ll experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas without the bustle of mass tourism.

2. Authentic Cultural Encounters

This trek passes through charming Gurung and Magar villages, giving you a glimpse into traditional mountain life. Staying in local homestays allows for genuine cultural exchange from sharing Dal Bhat meals to learning about local customs and traditions.

3. Perfect Blend of Challenge and Comfort

With moderate walking days and gradual altitude gain, the trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. You’ll enjoy rewarding climbs, well-marked trails, and cozy teahouses to rest each night balancing adventure with comfort.

4. Diverse Natural Landscapes

The route takes you through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high ridgelines each day offering a completely new environment. In spring, the hillsides burst with color, while in autumn, crystal-clear skies reveal endless mountain horizons.

5. A Hidden Gem of the Annapurna Region

Still relatively new compared to the classic treks, the Mardi Himal Trek remains a hidden gem offering the same majestic views and cultural richness, but with a sense of discovery and serenity that few treks can match.

Trip At Glance

Trip Map

Trip Gallery

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Brief Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival in Kathmandu, meet at the airport and transfer to Hotel
Day 02:

Drive to Pokhara
Day 03:

Drive to Kande (1,750 m), trek via Australian Camp to Pitam Deurali (2,100 m)
Day 04:

From Deurali to Kokar Forest Camp (2,550 m)
Day 05:

From Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,970 m)
Day 06:

From Low Camp to High Camp (3,600 m)
Day 07:

Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), overnight at High Camp
Day 08:

From High Camp to Sidhing (1,850 m)
Day 09:

Via Ghalel (1,500 m) to Lwang (1,450 m), overnight in a homestay
Day 10:

To Astam (1,530 m)
Day 11:

Sing Gompa (3300 m)
Day 12:

Descent to Melbot (1,070 m) and drive to Pokhara, Phewa Lake (850 m)
Day 13:

Pokhara, rest day at Phewa Lake
Day 14:

Drive back to Kathmandu (Evening farewell dinner)
Day 15:

Departure

Package Details

Cost Includes:

Airport arrival and departure private transfer
2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast on twin share basis
Kathmandu – Kande and Pokhara – Kathmandu transfer by bus
9 nights full board (BLD) teahouse trek with accommodation in mountain lodge
An english speaking trekking guide and porters (2 guests = 1 Porter & Max 25 kg)
ACAP and TIMS (required passport copy and 2 picture for permit).
Farewell dinner with Nepalese cultural dance show

Cost Excludes:

Personal nature of expenses and trekking gears
Any airfare, domestic airport taxes and excess baggage fee ( 20KG free)
Travel Insurance for rescue operation if any form
Extra night accommodation or accommodation if earlier return from trekking by any reason
Extra cost occur by any reason which is not in our control such as strike, landslide and accident etc
TIPS for trekking staffs and other things which is not included above.

To Do’s In Kathmandu

Walk Through History at UNESCO Sites
Kathmandu Valley offers an unforgettable journey through history with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and the ancient Durbar Squares—each filled with rich culture, architecture, and spiritual depth.
Shop, Eat & People-Watch in Thamel
Thamel is the buzzing heart of Kathmandu where you can shop for trekking gear, local crafts, and books, or relax in rooftop cafés and enjoy a wide mix of global and local food.
Taste the Real Nepal (Beyond Dal Bhat)
Kathmandu’s food scene delivers everything from juicy momos and traditional Newari dishes to hearty Thakali thalis, making it a top spot for tasting Nepal’s diverse culinary flavors.
Easy Day Trips When You Need a Break from the Buzz
Short escapes to places like Bhaktapur, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, or Chandragiri offer peaceful views, cultural depth, and refreshing air—all within a quick drive from the city.
Recover, Recharge & Just Chill
After a trek or long journey, Kathmandu is perfect for recovery with spas, yoga studios, serene gardens, and rooftop lounges that help you unwind at your own pace.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the mountain views are at their best.

2. How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

The trek is considered moderate. While no technical climbing is involved, you’ll hike up to 4,500 meters, so a good level of fitness and preparation is recommended. Daily walking times range between 3 to 7 hours.

3. What kind of accommodation can I expect on the trek?

You’ll stay in teahouses and homestays along the trail. These are simple yet comfortable lodges offering local meals, warm hospitality, and basic amenities.

4. Do I need a guide or porter for this trek?

While it’s possible to do the trek independently, hiring a local guide or porter enhances your experience — ensuring safety, cultural insight, and support on the steep sections.

5. What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?

You’ll need two permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card These can be arranged easily in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek.

Plan your Trip

For those planning an upcoming adventure, trek, or tour, or looking to personalize their trip, we encourage you to contact our expert by phone or message.