What Makes Mardi Himal Trek Famous?

The Mardi Himal Trek officially opened in 2012 after a detailed survey conducted by the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). This scenic route offers breathtaking views of iconic Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Himchuli (6,441 m), Mardi Himal (5,553 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Gangapurna (7,454 m), and Dhaulagiri Himal (8,167 m).

Situated just east of the renowned Annapurna Base Camp trek, this journey runs parallel to the majestic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mountain and is in close proximity to the newly established Kori Trek.

Known as one of Nepal’s premier short-duration treks, the Mardi Himal Trek is ideal for those seeking a moderate adventure. It is a relatively easy to moderately challenging trek located in the Annapurna region.

Typically completed in less than a week, the trail is well-suited for beginners, families, and seasoned hikers alike and offers a less exhausting experience compared to many other treks in Nepal. The trek provides a cost-effective option for exploring Nepal’s stunning mountain landscapes without compromising on the experience. 

Despite its manageable difficulty, the trek is immensely rewarding, offering breathtaking mountain views, a glimpse into the rich culture of the Annapurna region, and opportunities to encounter a variety of wildlife.

While it is affordable and brief, it provides a complete trekking adventure, making it a favorite among travelers.

Popular Short Trek

For trekkers with limited time or a few vacation days left, short treks in Nepal are an appealing option. Among these, the Mardi Himal Trek often flies under the radar despite its incredible offerings. This trek leads to Mardi Himal Base Camp at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the Hiunchuli peaks. Typically completed in about six days, this trek strikes a perfect balance, allowing adventurers to explore the Annapurna region in depth without extending the journey unnecessarily.

This trek is particularly popular for its flexibility, allowing itineraries to range from 3 to 5 days starting and ending in Pokhara. For those seeking to extend their adventure, the Mardi Himal route can be combined with other iconic treks in the Annapurna region, such as Poon Hill, Khopra Ridge, or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Biodiversity

Rising to an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at the Mardi Himal Base Camp, the trek features a variety of terrains, from vibrant rhododendron forests to open alpine meadows. During spring, the hills come alive with blooming rhododendrons in vivid pink, red, and white. The trail also meanders through dense forests of oak, bamboo, and blue pine, gradually transitioning to rugged alpine landscapes as trekkers ascend.

The biodiversity along the Mardi Himal trail is remarkable. Lower altitudes feature rich flora and fauna, while higher elevations offer encounters with alpine grasslands, shrubs, and Himalayan wildlife such as the Himalayan Thar, langurs, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, leopards, and a variety of birds, including Danphe (Himalayan Monal) and Kalij pheasants. Butterfly enthusiasts will also find the region’s diverse species captivating.

The Mardi Himal Trek is geographically distinguished by its strikingly varied landscapes, encompassing terraced rice paddies, lush rhododendron forests, rugged high-altitude rocky terrains, and majestic snow-capped peaks.

Local Culture

Culturally, the trek passes through traditional villages such as Dhampus, Pritam Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp. These settlements offer insights into the lifestyles and traditions of the Gurung and Magar communities, enriching the overall experience.

The Mardi Himal Trek is an affordable and stunning adventure. The cost usually ranges from $900 to $1500, which covers accommodation, transportation, meals, and fees for guides and porters. Trekkers can find the best deals by comparing different trekking agencies. This trek allows travelers to enjoy an authentic Himalayan experience without exceeding their budget. The low permit fees and economical local guesthouses make it a cost-effective choice. The route is also easy to access and has well-established infrastructure, making it ideal for those looking for a straightforward and budget-friendly option.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for a manageable trekking challenge or an experienced hiker seeking new horizons, the Mardi Himal Trek provides stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre. This lesser-explored gem offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration, making it an unforgettable journey in the heart of the Annapurna region.

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

The Mardi Himal trek begins in Kande, situated at an altitude of 1,700 meters, with the peak reaching 4,500 meters. There are multiple routes that lead to the summit of Mardi Himal.

The journey starts with a 40-minute drive from Pokhara to Naudanda Kande on the Beni Baglung Highway, followed by a short 1.5-hour hike up to Australian Camp. From this camp, trekkers are treated to spectacular views of both the Annapurna mountain range and the Pokhara valley. Afterward, we continue on a scenic trail towards Pritam Deurali. The initial portion of the trek is relatively easy and passes through quaint local villages near Pritam Deurali. On the first night, the camp is set up at Pritam Deurali, located between Annapurna South and Mardi Himal, offering a stunning view of the Modi Khola gorge and the lush rhododendron forests.

As we continue beyond Pritam Deurali, the path leads us deeper into enchanting rhododendron forests. The trail winds through rich sub-tropical forests, home to a diverse range of flora, including Juniper, Bamboo, Birch, Oak, and Fir trees. These forests are also inhabited by more than 500 bird species, such as the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Rufous Sibia, Spotted Forktail, Himalayan Whistling Thrush, White-collared Blackbird, and many others.

Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 1

Our journey begins with a one-hour drive from Pokhara to Kande along the Pokhara-Baglung highway. After breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara or Kathmandu, we head to Kande, a small village where the trek officially starts. The day’s route features gentle ascents through terraced farmland and a vibrant rhododendron forest. Along the way, we pass through the Australian Camp, a vantage point offering stunning views of the Annapurna massif. After about four hours of walking, we reach Pitam Deurali for lunch.

Pitam Deurali reflects the charm of a traditional Nepali rural village, with stone houses and terraced fields. The trail ahead leads through dense, temperate forests filled with lush greenery. Short breaks along the way provide time to soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

The journey continues through rhododendron and oak forests, a haven for bird watchers. This area is home to over 488 bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, Nepal’s national bird, along with Satyr Tragopans, Blood Pheasants, Cheer Pheasants, Snow Partridges, and Kalij Pheasants. Birds of prey like eagles, vultures, and owls can also be seen. As we approach Low Camp, the Annapurna massif appears in the distance, offering a preview of the spectacular views ahead. By evening, we arrive at Forest Camp, where we settle in for the night.

Day 2

The toughest segment of the Mardi Himal trek spans from Forest Camp through Low Camp, Badal Danda, and up to High Camp. As we ascend beyond 3,000 meters, the trail becomes narrower, and the scenery shifts to a stark, semi-arid landscape. This section includes several steep ascents, but the awe-inspiring Himalayan views more than compensate for the effort.

The effects of altitude become noticeable as we draw closer to High Camp, requiring trekkers to pace themselves carefully. The route also features several narrow ridges that demand focus and caution. By the end of the day, we reach High Camp, where we rest for the night, preparing for the next leg of the journey.

Day 3

The final stretch of the Mardi Himal trek begins with an early start, setting off before dawn to reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp in time for a breathtaking sunrise. The trek to the Lower Viewpoint takes around two hours and poses several challenges. The path is rugged, with rocky terrain and narrow ridges requiring careful footing, especially as you climb beyond 4,000 meters where the effects of altitude are more pronounced.

Reaching the base camp unveils a truly magical scene. The panoramic views of Annapurna’s towering peaks bathed in the morning light are nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an unforgettable impression. After soaking in the beauty and capturing memories, we make our way back down to Badal Danda for a well-earned rest and overnight stay.

Day 4

Today, we begin our descent from the Mardi Himal trek. The journey follows the same path as our ascent, leading us steadily downhill toward Badal Danda. From this point, the trail shifts direction toward Sidhing, passing through dense forests at the base of Mt. Machhapuchhre. The descent becomes steeper and demands careful footing, as the trail can be slippery in sections. After about five hours of trekking, we reach Sidhing, where a jeep awaits to take us back to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.