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9-Day Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek: Annapurna Ridge Trail

  • Duration 8 Nights/9 Days
  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Region ANNAPURNA REGION
  • Activity Nepal Trekking
  • Max. Altitude 4500m
  • Best Season March- May, September- December
  • Start/End Point Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-12 People

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the easiest and most accessible trekking routes in the Annapurna region. This trek will offer us an off-the-beaten-path alternative to the busier commercial trails like the Annapurna Base Camp trek. We will cover almost every reward that a Himalayan trek can offer on our Mardi Himal Base Camp trek. We will be rewarded with the dense rhododendron forests and dramatic ridges. The major reward is being face-to-face with Mt. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Mardi Himal Base Camp will offer one of the best Himalayan experiences near Pokhara. 

Mardi Himal Base Camp is classified as a moderate trek. This trek is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of physical fitness. This trek will make sure you tick every box, from cultural immersion with the locals to getting the perfect Himalayan panorama. Booking through a professional travel partner like Adventure Himalaya Nepal will ensure you have a seamless experience. As your travel partner, we will handle all logistics, permits, private transportation, and teahouse accommodation. You will be accompanied by English-speaking trekking guides and porters who navigate the trails and make your trek easier.

Join us today for one of the most incredible and beginner-friendly trekking routes in Nepal to witness the magic of Nepali trekking. Adventure Himalaya Nepal is waiting to host you for an incredible Mardi Himal Base Camp trek. 

Major Highlights

  • We will reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp directly beneath the towering South Face of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre. 
  • We will experience the unmatched, face-to-face visuals of Fishtail Mountain, Nepal’s unclimbed and very sacred peak. 
  • We will experience a golden-hour panoramic sunrise and sunset from High Camp, illuminating Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. 
  • Enchanting trekking experience through the dense, mossy forest trails into the vibrant colours will make our trekking beautiful. 
  • Walk along the open alpine ridges like Badal Danda and float high above the clouds with 360-degree mountain panoramas. 
  • We will immerse ourselves in local  Himalayan traditions and stone-hour architecture alongside the warm hospitality in the traditional village of Siding. 
  • We will enjoy the peaceful off-the-beaten Path trail and enjoy a quiet, less-crowded alternative to commercial treks like Annapurna Base Camp. 
  • Unwind before and after the trek in a peaceful retreat at Phewa Lake and Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal.

Why Choose this Trek? 

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is one of the premier short adventures. This trek is perfect for travelers who seek high-altitude Himalayan beauty without the heavy crowds of major trekking routes. We will ascend along the pristine ridgeline directly beneath Mt. Machhapuchhre, and this moderate journey will offer us breathtaking alpine panoramas along with authentic local cultural immersion. 

  • We will stand directly below the awe-inspiring unclimbed peak of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal Base Camp. 
  • We will escape the crowded highways of main routes for a peaceful trekking route. 
  • We will experience the diverse landscapes daily and move quickly from lush rhododendron forests to high alpine ridges above the clouds. 
  • We will achieve a genuine 4500-m altitude Himalayan experience in accessible and beginner-friendly conditions. 

Travelling with Adventure Himalaya Nepal

Adventure Himalaya Nepal Pvt Ltd. will ensure your journey to Nepal is backed by exceptional service standards and local expertise. We are a premier, government-registered travel partner based in Thamel, and we specialize in conducting safe and trusted services all over Nepal. 

Not just trekking, we provide services such as tours, mountain flights, city guides, and many more. We handle all the demanding logistics to make your first-hand experience better and sweeter. With Adventure Himalaya Pvt. Ltd, you can have a great experience visiting Nepal. Because visiting Nepal just once is not enough. 

Major Attractions 

1. Mardi Himal Base Camp & High Viewpoint (4,500m)

We will stand at Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). This is the ultimate highlight of this Nepal trekking adventure. This is located on the dramatic south face of Mt. Machhapuchhre. We will be offered the breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli peaks. The experience and trek will provide us with an authentic high-Himalayan summit experience. It is accessible for beginners without having technical skills or previous trekking experience. Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is one of a kind and a peaceful escape in the Annapurna region. 

2. Close-Up Views of Sacred Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak)

In other standard Annapurna trails, Fishtail Mountain remains distant. The premier Mardi Himal Trek route often follows a dramatic high ridge trail. This brings trekkers face-to-face with this highly sacred peak. Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) remains unclimbed at 6993m altitude. During our Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, we are offered the majestic visuals of this peak dominating the skyline. We will have unparalleled opportunities for world-class landscape photography. We will be offered a perfect vantage point for both sunrise and sunset photography and stargazing. 

3. Badal Danda (Cloud Hill) Ridge Walk

Badal Danda translates to “Cloudy Hill”. This viewpoint is one of the most pristine and mesmerizing ridge locations in Nepal. We walk above the treeline; the path skirts a high alpine ridge and frequently floats above the sea of clouds. Badal Danda offers some of the best views into Mardi Khola and a rich tapestry of Annapurna South and Mardi Himal itself. This location is one of the favourite destinations on the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek route. 

4. Enchanting Rhododendron & Ancient Oak Forests

The lower section of the trek between Deurali, Forest Camp, and Low Camp is especially enchanting. We walk through pristine, dense forests of moss-draped oak, maple, and rhododendron trees. During the spring months, these dense woods transform into a vibrant canopy of red, pink, and white blooms, making it one of the richest botanical nature walks in the entire Annapurna Conservation Area. Thus, spring is one of the most beautiful experiences in Mardi Himal Base Camp and Annapurna Sanctuary. 

5. Traditional Gurung Heritage in Siding Village

Descending via the alternative loop trail brings trekkers to Siding Village (1,750m), an authentic rural settlement untouched by heavy tourism. This hidden gem on the Mardi Himal Trek allows travelers to experience genuine Gurung hospitality, stay in traditional stone teahouses, and taste locally sourced organic meals. You will observe ancestral Himalayan farming and unique lifestyle practices firsthand. This peaceful village offers a perfect, culturally rich conclusion to your Nepal trekking adventure in the Annapurna region before returning to the tourism hub of Pokhara.

Detailed Itinerary of Mardi Himal Trek

This schedule includes all major activities, trekking hours, and overnight stops to help you understand what to expect throughout the journey. Each day is carefully planned for a balanced mix of adventure, acclimatization, and scenic exploration.

Welcome to Nepal. Your Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek by Adventure Himalaya Nepal will begin as soon as you land at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our team member will welcome you and transfers to your hotel in Thamel. Chill at your hotel and refresh. In the evening, you will have last-minute shopping, and you will have a briefing session with the trekking guide. In the evening, we will have a welcome dinner together. Overnight in a hotel.

Our Mardi Himal Base Camp trek begins today. We will start with the scenic 6-hour drive along the Prithvi Highway from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The route will wind through the lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and the rushing Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers underneath. We will reach Pokhara, check in to our hotel, and spend the rest of the evening exploring the lakeside. The magnificent reflection of Machhapuchre will welcome us to this wonderful city. Overnight in a hotel.

We will start with a short 1- hour drive from Pokhara to Kande. Kande is the official trailhead of our Mardi Himal Base Camp route. We will begin walking uphill, enjoying the panorama of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. We will continue through tranquil pine and oak forests until we reach Pothana, and a steady ascent will lead us to Deurali. We will stay in a teahouse in Deurali.

Today, we will leave the main Annapurna Sanctuary trail from Deurali. We will head off the beaten path onto the quiet Mardi Himal ridge. Today’s 5-6 hour trek will wind us through dense, pristine forests of rhododendron, oak, and maple trees. We will keep an eye out for local wildlife. We will encounter exotic birds and deer. The trail will offer us a tranquil experience away from the crowded routes. We will reach Forest Camp by evening and stay at the teahouse overnight.

We will trek upward from Forest Camp through lush vegetation towards Low Camp. We will see trees beginning to thin out and the landscape revealing dramatic close-up views of Machhapuchhre. We will continue past Badal Danda. From here, we will rise above the tree line into alpine shrubland. The landscape will transform into the open ridge trail flanked by deep valleys. After 5 to 6 hours of steady climbing, we will reach High Camp. We will be rewarded with the dramatic panorama of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli and Machhapuchhre. Overnight in a teahouse.

Today, we will wake up early for the highlight of our journey. We will push for a Mardi Himal Base Camp summit. We will walk along the narrow and rocky ridge to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint or press onward to the base camp. Situated at the 4500m altitude, we will stand face-to-face with the towering south face of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre. After we soak in the breathtaking sunrise and take photographs, we will descend back to High Camp for lunch. After lunch,h we will return to Low Camp. Overnight in a teahouse.

We will begin a 4-hour descent from Low Camp today. This is along an alternative descent route to Siding village. The trail will drop steeply through the shade-dappled forests and traditional farming settlements, and we will be offered authentic insight into the Gurung culture. Upon reaching Siding, we will board a local jeep to get us back to Pokhara. After checking in to our hotel, we will spend the evening enjoying a lovely dinner in the restaurant. Overnight in a hotel.

We will bid farewell to the Annapurna Sanctuary and Pokhara today. After breakfast, we will board a tourist coach or a private vehicle for a return drive to Kathmandu. We will retrace the lines of Prithvi Highway while we enjoy the changing landscapes. We will arrive back in Kathmandu by late afternoon, leaving us ample time for the evening. After checking in to the hotel and freshening up, a delightful evening awaits. Use your free time for last-minute souvenir shopping. We will have a farewell dinner at the end of the day. Overnight in a hotel.

Your Mardi Himal Base Camp trek comes to an end today. Depending on your flight schedule, you can explore some of Kathmandu in the morning after breakfast. You can also spend your last minutes buying souvenirs. One of our representatives will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your departure time. We hope you have a great time in the Himalayas. We wish to come back for more of these adventures with Adventure Himalaya Nepal. Safe journey. See you!

Price Includes

  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara two way bus ticket.
  • Accommodation: 4 nights in hotels (Kathmandu and Pokhara), 4 nights in teahouses.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek; farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Experienced English-speaking guide.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
  • Porters Service(1 porter per 2 trekkers).
  • All government taxes and service charges.
  • All ground transfers.

Price Excludes

  • International flights to/from Kathmandu.
  • Nepal visa fees.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover high-altitude trekking).
  • Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, tips, souvenirs).
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (Lunch and Dinner in the city are not included0

Are you looking to customize the trip itinerary?

If the provided schedule is not suitable for you, we can create a personalized travel arrangement tailored to your preferences and requirements.

Altitude

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Permits Required

Permit Type Category / Nationality Cost (NPR) Cost (USD Approx.)*
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) Foreign Nationals NPR 3,000 ~$22 – $25
SAARC Nationals NPR 1,000 ~$7 – $8
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Foreign Nationals NPR 2,000 ~$15
SAARC Nationals NPR- 1000 $7-8

Note: Adventure Himalaya Nepal will acquire all the permits related to Mardi Himal Base Camp on your behalf. The permits will only be bought once you have landed in Nepal. 

Best seasons for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is widely recognized as the major trekking season in Nepal. It transforms the trail into a vibrant botanical paradise around Annapurna Sanctuary. As the winter cold recedes, the forests are reborn with the vivid blooms of crimson, pink, and white between Forest Camp and Low Camp. Trekkers will enjoy comfortable daytime temperatures in mild weather and longer daylight hours. It will make our ascents pleasant and manageable. The skies in the morning are clear and offer unobstructed views of the peaks like Mt Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Mardi itself. The weather is constant with the possibility of afternoon light showers. But spring will be a perfect season for trekkers who seek mild weather and photogenic landscapes. 

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is considered the best season and gold standard for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. This season, after the vigorous monsoon, provides the most stable and rewarding weather of the year. The air becomes crisp and reveals the razor-sharp views of the Annapurna Mountain range. Dry, secure trails will make our ascent and descent of the Mardi Himal Base Camp route more rewarding and fruitful. The walk towards High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp will be exceptionally safe and enjoyable. The temperatures during the day are mild, with a cool breeze approaching. This season also coincides with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar. So there will be an extra element of reward on the trails. However, there will be more fellow trekkers, as this is also the holiday season in Nepal. 

Difficulties of Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek 

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is one of the moderate treks in Nepal. It does not pose high-altitude sickness risks. But for a beginner, steep continuous ascents and quick altitude gain (from 900m to 4500m in five days) can be a major challenge. The other challenges are unpredictable mountain weather, cold high-altitude temperatures, and long walking hours. 

Key Remedies against difficulties 

  • We have to ascend gradually with early overnight stops. We will have to take slow steps and stay hydrated with at least 3-4 liters of water each day. 
  • The trekker must prepare cardio and leg strength training at least 4-6 weeks before the scheduled trek. Stair climbing, weighted squats, and lunges will help. 
  • Invest in high-quality gear and clothes. A waterproof shell will help to withstand sudden high-altitude weather changes and cold nights. 
  • One must wear sturdy and broken-in waterproof boots with ankle support. Use the trekking poles provided by Adventure Himalaya Nepal. 
  • Adventure Himalaya Nepal will accompany a certified mountain trekking guide to assist in navigating trails, and they will ensure your safety during the trek. 

Guides and Porters 

Adventure Himalaya Nepal is a professional travel agency that provides efficient and seamless services to its esteemed guests. We will accompany you with licensed mountain guides and porters to ensure a safe and hassle-free embarkation of the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. Nepal’s trekking guidelines do not allow a foreign national to go on a Himalayan trek without a licensed guide. Your certified trekking guide will lead the trek and help you navigate the route. They will also help monitor early signs of altitude sickness and manage logistics. They will act as a bridge between locals and you. 

The porters will help you carry the heavy baggage. They carry about 20 kgs of baggage per porter, which means it can be shared between two trekkers. When you have someone carry your baggage, you can walk and immerse yourself in the magical Mardi Himal Base Camp rewards. Together, the guide and porter will manage teahouse reservations and ensure premium safety and enrich your overall trekking experience. 

Food and cuisines during the  trek 

Teahouses along the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek offer a diverse menu. They serve a mix of high-energy, hot meals and some continental dishes. The major lunch and dinner staple is Dal Bhat. Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali set of rice, lentil soups, and vegetable curry. Dal Bhat comes with free refills. 

For breakfast, you will find porridge, eggs and chickpeas, pancakes, bread and butter paired with warm ginger tea. The other staples in the menu feature momo, fried rice, noodles (fried and soup), thukpa. Some teahouses in Forrest Camp or Low Camp offer the likes of pizza, pasta, and garlic soup. We recommend you choose vegetarian options over meat for food safety and hygiene. 

Travel Insurance 

Travel Insurance is highly recommended during any kind of foreign tour or trek. Travel insurance acts as a safeguard for the Mardi Himal Trek. This is a moderate trek in terms of high-altitude risk, but one should never rule it out. Ascending to 4500m will expose beginner trekkers to lower oxygen levels. If not cared for properly, this can result in Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS). The sudden weather changes and accidental injuries are among the major risks. 

In remote regions like the Mardi Himal Base Camp route, there is no immediate medical facility available. The nearest well-equipped medical facility is in Pokhara. One needs to be evacuated by helicopter to Pokhara or Kathmandu in case of injuries or unforeseen conditions. Such operations cost about 3000-5000 USD out of pocket. To save your hard-earned money, comprehensive travel insurance should always be an integral part of your journey outside your native country.

Trek Map

FAQs

The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is one of the moderate trekking routes in Nepal. It does not require technical climbing skills and mountaineering experience. Trekkers of all age groups and families can embark on this trekking route. However, if you have cardiovascular and lower-body health issues, it is better to plan a shorter itinerary. You can adjust the itinerary on your terms with Adventure Himalaya Nepal.

The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters. Many trekkers also stop at the Mardi Himal High Viewpoint at 4,200 meters, which offers nearly identical, breathtaking panoramas of the Annapurna range.

Yes. Under official Nepal Tourism Board regulations, foreign trekkers are required to hire a licensed mountain guide when trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Hiring a porter is optional but highly recommended to carry heavy luggage so you can walk comfortably with a daypack.

You need two main permits for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and e-TIMS. Each of the permits will be bought by Adventure Himalaya Nepal and is inclusive of the package.

The two best seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). Spring season offers warm temperatures and vibrant flora along the route. Autumn is famous for its magnificent weather and post-monsoon freshness with festival vibes.

The accommodation during the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek consists of simple and family-run teahouses. The teahouses have twin-sharing with basic beds and mattresses. Some teahouses also offer electric blankets. The toilets are traditional squat-style in most places. Hot showers are typically non-existent or available for an additional charge of 3-5 USD.

While embarking on a moderate trek like the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, you don't need to prepare vigorously against altitude sickness. One must ascend gradually while taking different stops and drink 3-4 liters of water daily. You need to follow the instructions of your professional trekking guide if you find any difficulties.

Mobile signals like Ncell and NTC work up to Badal Danda. The coverage will become spotty or non-existent at High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp. The teahouses offer Wi-Fi and electricity as per the need. Most of the teahouses will provide Wi-Fi for free, but some at the High Camp may charge a small fee of 2 or 3 USD per person.

As a trekker who is embarking on the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, you must have specialized travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking up to 5000m. It will include emergency helicopter evacuation from Kathmandu and ensures you are covered if you have your trek cancelled due to unforeseen conditions.

Yes. Mardi Himal is one of the best short Himalayan treks for beginner trekkers because it offers high-altitude exposure (4,500m) with relatively short daily walking distances over just 5 trekking days. Basic fitness training (cardio and hiking) 4 to 6 weeks before the trip is recommended.

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