Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Chingu Treks and Tours will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, you will have the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. If you have energy, you can explore the nearby areas of Thamel, a vibrant neighborhood known for its shops, restaurants, and cafes. In the evening, there will be a pre-trek briefing with your guide, where you will receive details about the Mardi Himal Trek and any last-minute information or equipment recommendations.
After breakfast, you will undertake on a scenic drive to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city located about 6-7 hours from Kathmandu. Along the way, you will pass through the picturesque countryside, with views of the Trishuli River, terraced fields, and small villages. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check in to your hotel. You’ll have time to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna Mountain Range, which can be seen from the lakeside area. If time permits, take a walk around Phewa Lake or visit the Peace Pagoda for panoramic views of Pokhara.
After an early breakfast, you will drive from Pokhara to Kande, a small village that serves as the starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek. From Kande, you will begin your trek with a gradual ascent to the popular viewpoint of Australian Camp (2,200 m), where you will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. From Australian Camp, the trail continues to ascend through rhododendron forests, and after about 3 hours of trekking, you will reach Forest Camp (2,600 m). The peaceful and secluded setting of Forest Camp makes it a perfect place to relax after the first day of trekking. You will stay in a simple, comfortable lodge for the night.
Today, you will trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,550 m), passing through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests. The trail gradually climbs, and after a few hours, you will reach Badal Danda (3,215 m), a ridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The landscape starts to change as you leave the forest behind and enter more alpine terrain. The trek continues to High Camp, where you will have breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South. High Camp is the highest point for the night, and you’ll stay in a lodge with incredible views of the mountains.
Today is a rewarding day. After an early breakfast, you will hike up to Mardi View Point (4,500 m), which offers panoramic views of the entire Annapurna range, including the majestic peaks of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna I. The hike is relatively challenging due to the altitude, but the view from the top makes the effort worthwhile. After spending some time at the viewpoint, you will descend back down to High Camp and continue your trek to Low Camp (2,970 m), where you will spend the night. The descent is easier, and as you drop in elevation, the vegetation becomes more lush and green.
Today, you will continue your descent from Low Camp to Sidding, a small village situated at 1,745 meters. The trek takes about 3.5 hours, and as you descend, the landscape transforms from alpine meadows to lush forests and terraced fields. After reaching Sidding, you will take a 1.5-hour drive back to Pokhara. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and have the evening free to relax, shop, or enjoy a leisurely dinner by the lakeside.
After breakfast, you will begin your drive back to Kathmandu, which takes around 7 hours. The drive will offer more opportunities to enjoy Nepal's scenic countryside as you pass through rural villages, terraced fields, and winding mountain roads. Once you reach Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to rest, explore the city, or do some last-minute shopping. In the evening, Chingu Treks and Tours will host a farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of your trek, where you can share stories and reflect on your experiences.
On the final day of your adventure, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Whether you are heading home or continuing your travels, you will leave with unforgettable memories of the Mardi Himal Trek and the stunning Himalayan landscapes you’ve experienced. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure with Chingu Treks and Tours in the future!
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a short and scenic trek that takes you to the base of Mardi Himal, located just below Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail). The trek offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. With lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, this trek provides a serene and less crowded alternative to other popular treks in the region.
The Mardi Himal Trek is classified as a moderate trek, making it suitable for trekkers with a basic level of fitness and some previous trekking experience. The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, which sits at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). Although the trek doesn’t require technical climbing skills, the altitude and some steep ascents make it more challenging. If you’re in good health and follow the gradual ascent, the trek is manageable for most people. The trail is well-maintained, with clear signs and routes, making it suitable for those with moderate trekking experience.
The best times to trek the Mardi Himal route are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning views of the Annapurna range. Spring brings rhododendron blooms along the trail, adding to the trek’s beauty, while autumn brings crisp air and stable weather conditions. Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially at higher altitudes, and monsoon season (June to August) is not ideal due to heavy rain and slippery trails.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively short trek, typically taking 5 to 7 days. The trek starts from Kande, and depending on your pace and acclimatization, you’ll pass through charming villages, lush forests, and alpine meadows before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek is flexible and can be customized to suit your needs, whether you prefer a more leisurely or quicker pace. The itinerary provided by Chingu Treks and Tours allows for sufficient rest and exploration time.
The highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, located at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). Reaching the base camp offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. The panoramic view from the base camp is one of the highlights of this trek, with close-up views of the majestic mountains, glaciers, and ridges.
Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek is in tea houses or guesthouses. These are simple, family-run establishments that provide basic facilities, such as a bed with blankets, shared bathrooms, and a communal dining area. As the trek goes higher, the tea houses become more basic but still offer warm food and a place to sleep. Chingu Treks and Tours ensures that you stay in clean, comfortable, and safe tea houses, offering a homely experience along the route.
Meals provided on the Mardi Himal Trek include a variety of Nepali, Sherpa, and Western dishes. Typical breakfast options include porridge, toast, eggs, and pancakes. For lunch and dinner, you will enjoy a range of dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, soup, and fried rice. The tea houses along the trek serve hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, which help keep you energized. As you ascend, the menu may become more basic, but there will be enough variety to keep you fueled throughout the trek. Chingu Treks and Tours ensures that the food provided is nutritious and safe.
Altitude sickness is a potential risk on any trek above 3,000 meters. The Mardi Himal Trek reaches altitudes of up to 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at the base camp, so it’s important to ascend gradually and take rest days as needed. To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, Chingu Treks and Tours includes proper acclimatization days in the itinerary. Additionally:
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Eat well and maintain energy levels.
Pay attention to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, or loss of appetite. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, let your guide know immediately. In case of serious symptoms, descending to a lower altitude is recommended. Your safety is a top priority for us, and our guides are trained to handle altitude sickness.
The weather on the Mardi Himal Trek varies with altitude. In lower regions like Kande and Pothana, the weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). As you ascend, temperatures drop, and you may experience colder conditions, particularly in the mornings and evenings. At higher altitudes, temperatures can fall below freezing, especially at Mardi Himal Base Camp. During the trekking seasons (spring and autumn), the weather is generally clear and dry, offering stunning views. It’s essential to pack for both warm and cold conditions, including layers and a good-quality sleeping bag.
The cost of the Mardi Himal Trek with Chingu Treks and Tours typically includes:
Permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS card)
Experienced trekking guides and porters
Tea house accommodations along the route
Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Pre-trek briefing and map
Transportation (private vehicle or flights to/from Pokhara)
First aid kit and emergency evacuation insurance
Emergency helicopter rescue if needed
Personal expenses such as snacks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
While previous trekking experience is helpful, it is not a requirement for the Mardi Himal Trek. The trek is suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness levels and a desire to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region. If you have done shorter or easier treks before, you will be well-prepared for this trek. For beginners, it is recommended to train by walking or hiking on uneven terrain or taking shorter treks to build your stamina. Chingu Treks and Tours provides expert guides who will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek.
If you are unable to continue the trek due to altitude sickness, injury, or any other issue, Chingu Treks and Tours has emergency evacuation plans in place. In the event of serious altitude sickness or injury, we can arrange a helicopter evacuation to lower altitudes or Kathmandu for medical attention. Our experienced guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management and will always prioritize your health and safety during the trek.
Yes, after completing the Mardi Himal Trek, many trekkers choose to extend their journey by visiting other nearby destinations such as Poon Hill, Ghorepani, or even Annapurna Base Camp. Chingu Treks and Tours can help you customize your itinerary if you wish to explore more of the Annapurna region or enjoy additional activities in Pokhara, such as boating on Phewa Lake or paragliding.
