The Mardi Himal Trek offers an all-inclusive adventure, perfect for trekkers eager to experience the authentic beauty and culture of Nepal’s Himalayan region—while still leaving time to relax and unwind at the end of the journey. Tucked just east of the famous Annapurna Base Camp trail, the Mardi Himal route remains a hidden gem. Few trekkers venture here, making the experience more peaceful and intimate. The trail leads through enchanting rhododendron forests before opening up to high ridges with breathtaking views of Mardi Himal and the striking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak). As you ascend beyond 3,300 meters, the landscape shifts dramatically from lush forest to rugged alpine terrain. From these high vantage points, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The highlight of the trek is the climb from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), a 3–4 hour hike that offers an unforgettable, close-up perspective of the majestic Annapurna Range.

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).

Warm welcome and transfer to one of our partner hotels in Kathmandu.

Time to relax, recover from your journey, or take a short stroll in Thamel, the lively traveler district.

Overnight stay in Kathmandu at one of our partner hotels.

Transfer to our partner hotel in Pokhara.

Free time to relax by Phewa Lake or explore the Lakeside area.

Meet your trekking guides for briefing: Overview of the route, altitude info, safety tips.

Last-minute shopping: Trekking gear, snacks, or essentials in Lakeside, Pokhara.

Afternoon/evening visit to the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa): Short hike/drive to the hilltop stupa. Incredible panoramic views of Phewa Lake, Pokhara city, and the Annapurna range.

Overnight stay at one of our partner hotels in Pokhara.

Starting point: Pokhara. Duration: ~1 hour drive (about 30 km northwest of Pokhara). Road conditions: Generally decent, but can vary depending on weather.

Trail: Part of the Annapurna Sanctuary/ABC Trek. Total time: Around 5 hours. Trail segments: Kande to Australian Camp (1–1.5 hrs): Gradual uphill through forest. Australian Camp to Pothana (30–45 min): Rolling terrain. Pothana to Deurali (1–1.5 hrs): Steady uphill climb.

Lunch & dinner included.

Duration: ~5 hours (depending on pace and breaks). Distance: ~6–8 km. Altitude gain: Deurali (~2,100 m) to Rest Camp (~2,600 m), gain of ~500 m. The trail passes through dense forest, mostly uphill, with a serene and shaded path to Forest Camp (~2,550 m), then continues to Rest Camp with some steep sections and the first glimpses of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) if weather is clear.

Deurali to Forest Camp takes about 2.5–3 hours on a dense forest trail, mostly uphill, shaded and serene with fewer crowds. Elevation at Forest Camp is ~2,550 m. Optional tea/snack break available.

Forest Camp to Rest Camp takes about 1.5–2 hours. The trail is still forested but starts to open up, with narrower paths and some steep sections. First real glimpses of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) if weather is clear. Rest Camp is quieter than Low Camp and a great overnight spot.

Altitude: ~2,600 m. Lodging: 2–3 teahouses, basic but comfortable. Views are limited as the forest is still dense, but more open than Forest Camp. Weather can get cold at night, especially in shoulder seasons.

Duration: ~6 hours (depending on your pace and breaks). Distance: ~6–8 km. Altitude gain: Rest Camp (~2,600 m) to High Camp (~3,700 m), gain of about 1,100 m.

Rest Camp to Low Camp (~2 hours): Elevation ~3,000 m at Low Camp. The first section from Rest Camp is still through forest but with more open areas as you approach Low Camp. Great views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) to the left, and you’ll start seeing the first clear views of the Annapurna range in the distance. The trail becomes a bit steeper as you move up.

Low Camp to High Camp (~4 hours): This is the steeper and more exposed part of the trek. The path starts to get more rocky and narrow, with some switchbacks as you ascend. Open views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the surrounding peaks become spectacular. The trail is above the tree line for most of this section, so there’s little shade. You'll be trekking across alpine meadows and rocky terrain. As you approach High Camp, the landscape becomes more rugged and barren.

High Camp to Upper View Point (Mardi Himal Base Camp): Distance: ~4 km (one way). Time: 2–3 hrs ascent. Altitude: High Camp (3,580 m) to Upper View Point (4,200–4,500 m). Trail: Steep, narrow ridge path, rocky sections. Highlights: Panoramic views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and surrounding peaks. Early start for sunrise views and to avoid afternoon clouds.

Upper View Point to High Camp (return): Time: 1.5–2 hrs descent. Much faster going down, but still steep—trek poles help.

High Camp to Low Camp: Distance: ~5–6 km. Time: 2–2.5 hrs descent. Trail goes through rhododendron forest and ridge trails. Altitude drops from 3,580 m to 3,150 m. Easier on the lungs, but still tough on the knees.

We stay at Low Camp. Lodges/teahouses. Warmer and less windy than High Camp.

Time: ~4–5 hrs (all downhill). Altitude: 3,150 m to 1,700 m. Trail: Starts with forest trails (rhododendron & oak), gradual descent with some steep sections, passes small villages and farmlands. Highlights: Peaceful walk through forest, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages.

You’ll finish trekking around late morning / midday. Enjoy a hearty Nepali lunch before starting the drive.

Duration: 3–4 hrs by jeep/car (road is rough in some sections). Arrival in Pokhara: Late afternoon or early evening.

Comfortable stay, hot shower, and proper meals after days in the mountains. Great chance to relax at Phewa Lake or enjoy Pokhara nightlife.

Morning: Short flight to Kathmandu. Flight time: ~25–30 minutes. Views: Amazing aerial panorama of the Himalayas (Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang). Note: Morning flights are preferred as they’re less likely to be delayed by weather.

Explore Kathmandu in the afternoon. Popular options: UNESCO Heritage Sites (Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square), Thamel for shopping, handicrafts, trekking gear and cafés, and try momo dumplings, Newari cuisine, or rooftop restaurants with Himalayan views.

Comfortable hotel stay with modern amenities. Ideal for relaxing after exploring or preparing for your onward journey.

Morning/Day: Transfer from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).

Flight: Depart to your home country or onward travel destination.

Depending on flight time, you might enjoy a final stroll or shopping in Thamel if your departure is later in the day.