Mardi Himal Trek
Trekking

Mardi Himal Trek

7 Days · 6 NightsAnnapurna, NepalMar–May, Sep–Nov4.8

Overview

Mardi Himal Trek is a compact but rewarding trail on the eastern ridge of the Annapurna massif, offering some of the closest views of Machapuchare (Fishtail, 6,993m) available without entering the restricted sanctuary. The route climbs from Pokhara's forests through Low Camp, Badal Danda, and High Camp to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,500m. Far less crowded than EBC or ABC, and achievable within a week.

Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,500m)Machapuchare north face up closeBadal Danda ridge walkQuiet, uncrowded trailForest camp to alpine ridge in 3 days

Day-by-day Itinerary

01

Arrival in Pokhara (820m)

Arrive in Pokhara by flight or bus. Meet guide, briefing, permit processing, and gear check. Evening at leisure.

02

Drive Pokhara → Kande · Trek to Forest Camp (2,550m)

Drive 30 min to Kande trailhead. Trek through Australian Camp (2,060m) — with Annapurna views — and continue into oak and rhododendron forest to Forest Camp. Walk time: 4–5 hrs.

03

Forest Camp → Low Camp (3,050m)

Climb steadily through dense rhododendron forest, passing Deurali, to Low Camp on the open ridge. First clear views of Machapuchare begin to appear. Walk time: 4–5 hrs.

04

Low Camp → High Camp (3,580m) via Badal Danda

Follow the narrow ridge walk through Badal Danda (Cloud Hill) — a dramatic open ridge with sheer drops and panoramic Himalayan views — to High Camp. Walk time: 4–5 hrs.

05

High Camp → Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,500m) → Low Camp

Pre-dawn start to hike to the Upper Viewpoint at 4,500m for a close, unobstructed view of Machapuchare's north face and the Annapurna range at sunrise. Return to High Camp for breakfast, then descend to Low Camp. Walk time: 6–7 hrs.

06

Low Camp → Siding Village (1,700m) → Pokhara

Descend via a less-used trail through rhododendron forest to Siding village. Drive back to Pokhara (1 hr). Walk time: 4 hrs.

07

Pokhara → Kathmandu / Departure

Drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu, or depart from Pokhara directly.

Included

  • Pokhara trailhead transfers (Kande)
  • Licensed trekking guide
  • Porter support
  • ACAP permit and TIMS card
  • Teahouse accommodation throughout
  • All meals during trek

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Nepal visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Hot showers and charging
  • Tips