Mardi Himal General Information
Mardi Himal Trek is nothing short of a hidden treasure for those seeking an unforgettable first trekking adventure in Nepal. Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Annapurna region, this short and easy trek offers a rare blend of wild nature, high-altitude landscapes, and authentic Himalayan culture, all without the overwhelming difficulty of more intense treks. As you ascend through vibrant rhododendron forests, peaceful alpine meadows, and misty ridgelines, you'll feel like you've stepped into a dream world, surrounded by the towering giants of the Annapurna Massif. The trek unveils jaw-dropping close-up views of Mardi Himal, the sacred and striking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), the grand Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, making every step an exhilarating experience. Compared to other treks in the Annapurna region like the Annapurna Circuit or Base Camp, the Mardi Himal Trek remains a quiet, less-traveled path, offering pure, serene moments of connection with nature which is perfect for beginners craving a real adventure without the crowds. Whether you’re traveling from Kathmandu or Pokhara, this trek promises a seamless journey into the heart of the Himalayas, blending the thrill of discovery with the comfort of easy trails. As Nepal gears up for 2025/26, more travelers are uncovering this gem, making it a trending destination for those who wish to embrace the power of the mountains, the warmth of local communities, and the soul-stirring beauty of untamed wilderness. If you have ever dreamed of walking among clouds, touching the sky, and standing beneath the towering peaks of the Annapurna range: all within a short, easy, and affordable trip, there’s simply no better choice than the Mardi Himal Trek. This journey is not just a hike; it's a life-changing experience that will leave you longing for more Himalayan adventures.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
Adventure and Nature: Walk through dense rhododendron forests, charming local villages, and high alpine meadows.
Spectacular Sunrise and Sunset: Watch golden sunlight paint the peaks of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.
Cultural Experience: Encounter warm hospitality from the Gurung and Magar communities.
Easy Altitude: The trek’s highest point, Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), is achievable without technical climbing skills.
Explore Beautiful Lake City: You can extend your journey to Pokhara (beautiful city of Lakes).
Why choose Mardi Himal as your first trek in Nepal?
If you are planning your first trek in Nepal, Mardi Himal is one of the best choices you can make. It is a short and easy trek that shows you the real beauty of the Himalayas without making you walk for weeks or climb very high mountains. The trail is not too hard, so even if you are new to trekking, you can complete it with a little preparation and a lot of excitement.
One of the best things about Mardi Himal is that it is very close to Pokhara, which is a beautiful city by a lake. You can easily reach Pokhara from Kathmandu by bus or flight, and then start your trek. The trek itself only takes around 4 to 6 days, so it’s perfect if you have a short holiday but still want a big adventure. You don’t need any technical climbing skills, just comfortable hiking shoes, a good spirit, and a love for nature and travel is enough.
Another reason to choose Mardi Himal is the amazing views you get during the trek. Even though it is a relatively easy hike, you will still see giant snow-covered mountains like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Mardi Himal up close. At sunrise and sunset, the mountains look magical, with golden color in the sky. You walk through peaceful forests full of colorful rhododendron flowers and small villages where friendly locals welcome you with smiles.
Compared to more popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal is less crowded. This makes it a great choice if you want to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. You can walk freely, take lots of photos, and really connect with the beautiful surroundings without rushing or feeling stressed.
Finally, Mardi Himal is budget-friendly, which is very helpful if you are a beginner traveler. The costs for permits, food, and accommodation are much lower than in other trekking regions. Plus, you can find cozy teahouses along the way where you can rest, eat local food, and meet fellow trekkers from around the world.
In short, Mardi Himal gives you a complete adventure experience: beautiful mountains, friendly people, quiet trails, and a feeling of achievement, all without being too hard. It’s the perfect first trek to fall in love with Nepal and the mountains.
Best Time to Mardi Himal
The best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. In spring, the weather is warm and the trails are surrounded by colorful rhododendron flowers, making the journey even more beautiful. The sky is usually clear, offering stunning views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and the Annapurna mountains. Spring is perfect for nature lovers who want to enjoy both the mountains and blooming forests.
Autumn is another great time to trek because the monsoon rains will have cleared the dust from the air, giving you the clearest mountain views of the year. The temperatures are mild, the skies are bright blue, and the weather is very stable. This season is especially popular among trekkers, so you might meet more travelers on the trail. If you are planning your Mardi Himal adventure in 2025/26, booking your trek in spring or autumn will give you the best chance for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable trekking experience.
How Difficulty for Mardi Viewpoint ?
Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderately easy trek, making it a great choice for beginners and first-time trekkers in Nepal. The trail is well-marked and doesn’t require any technical climbing skills. Most of the walking is on gentle uphill and downhill paths through forests, ridges, and small villages. Daily hiking hours are usually between 4 to 6 hours, which is very manageable with basic fitness. If you enjoy regular walks, hiking, or outdoor activities, you should have no problem completing this trek. Though Mardi Himal View Point lies at an altitude of 4,200 meters, it can be achieved by first time trekkers like you if you are hydrated enough, full of rest and walk slowly.
Possibility of Altitude Sickness in Mardi Base Camp
However, even though Mardi Himal is easier compared to high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp, it still reaches a high point of around 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) at Mardi Himal Base Camp. Because of the altitude, some trekkers may feel mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Walking slowly, drinking lots of water, and giving your body enough time to rest can help you stay comfortable. Overall, with the right preparation, a positive mindset, and a steady pace, the Mardi Himal Trek is a fun and achievable adventure for most people.
Alternative Short and Easy Trek Near Mardi
There are other options for trekking in Annapurna region except for Mardi Himal. Some of them are as:
Ghorepani Poon Hill
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the most popular and easiest treks in the Annapurna region. It usually takes 4 to 5 days and offers beautiful mountain views without going to very high altitudes. The main highlight is reaching Poon Hill (3,210 meters), where you can see a breathtaking sunrise over Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. The trail passes through charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush rhododendron forests, and terraced fields, making it a colorful and culturally rich experience for beginners.
Australian Camp to Ghandruk
Trek from Australian Camp to Ghandruk is a perfect short adventure if you have very little time but still want to experience the Annapurna views. It can be completed in 2 to 3 days, starting with a short drive from Pokhara and a gentle hike through forests and small villages. From Australian Camp (2,050 meters) and Ghandruk (2,012 meters)s, you get fantastic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. It’s a relaxing trek with comfortable lodges, great for families, beginners, or anyone who wants a taste of the mountains without much effort.
Mohare Danda
Mohare Danda Trek is a peaceful and newly promoted trekking route, perfect for beginners who want a quieter experience away from crowded trails. Known as the Community Eco-Trek, it usually takes 5 to 7 days and leads you through lovely Magar villages, beautiful forests, and open ridges. Mohare Danda (3,300 meters) offers panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre, especially at sunrise and sunset. The trail also supports local communities, so your travel directly helps the people living there, making it a meaningful and rewarding adventure.
Panchase
The Panchase Trek is another easy and less-traveled trail near Pokhara. Taking around 3 to 4 days, this trek is ideal for nature lovers who want peaceful walks through forests filled with orchids, rhododendrons, and birdlife. Panchase Hill (2,500 meters) is the highest point, and from the top, you can see a sweeping view of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges. It's a low-altitude trek with a mix of culture, nature, and mountain scenery, perfect for a relaxed adventure in the Annapurna region.
Accommodation and Fooding during trek in Mardi
Don’t expect luxury stays during Mardi Himal Trek. You’ll have to adjust to basic things while accommodating in teahouses during this trek. They provide you with a blanket, but in case you need a sleeping bag, make sure to rent it or ask for the company you’re travelling with. As for the food, again you’ll have to adjust to basic fooding like Dal, Bhat, Momo, Spaghetti, and so on.
How to Reach Kande to start the journey to Mardi?
From Pokhara you have to grab a bus or Taxi to reach Kande, the starting point of this trek. If you are travelling from Kathmandu, you can either fly to Pokhara and reach Kande by bus or taxi, or directly travel from Kathmandu to Kande by bus, taxi or jeep.
Is it Mandatory to hire a Trekking Guide and Porter ?
As you are a first time trekker, you’re strongly recommended to hire both a trekking guide and a porter if you want to be comfortable throughout the trek. This reduces your risk of getting lost even though the trail is marked, reduces your load to carry throughout the trek. They manage the journey for you. Trekking guide navigates the routes and deals with altitude-related issues (incase) while a porter guide lightens your load allowing you to walk more comfortably. Hence, hiring them offers several advantages.
Trekking Permits Required for Mardi Himal ?
To trek to Mardi Himal, you need two permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
This permit is required because Mardi Himal lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. It helps to protect the environment and support local communities. It costs NPR 3,000 (around USD 25) for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
This card is used to keep a record of trekkers for their safety during the trek which costs NPR 2,000 (around USD 15-17) for individual trekkers. If you go through a registered trekking agency, the cost is slightly less.
You can easily get both permits from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Make sure to carry passport-size photos and a copy of your passport when applying.
What to Pack for Mardi Himal Trek?
Clothing:
Moisture-wicking t-shirts (2-3)
Trekking pants (2 pairs)
Warm fleece or down jacket
Light rain jacket or poncho
Thermal innerwear (top and bottom)
Warm hat/beanie
Sun hat or cap
Gloves (warm and lightweight)
Warm socks (3-4 pairs)
Sleepwear (comfortable for teahouse stays)
Footwear:
Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in)
Lightweight slippers or sandals (for teahouses)
Gear:
Backpack (30-40 liters)
Daypack (optional, for short walks)
Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
Sleeping bag (optional as most teahouses provide blankets)
Accessories:
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
Lip balm with SPF
Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
Water purification tablets or filter
Quick-dry towel
Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
Power bank (for charging devices)
Camera (optional)
Personal Items:
Passport copies
Permits (ACAP and TIMS)
Cash (Nepali rupee notes)
Toiletries & First Aid:
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Soap and shampoo (small bottles)
Wet wipes and tissues
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper
Basic first aid kit (band-aids, painkillers, diarrhea medicine, altitude sickness medicine)
Blister care (plasters or moleskin)
Snacks:
Energy bars, chocolates, or nuts
Electrolyte powders (optional)
Things to be considered while trekking in this route
Walk slowly and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness, as the trek reaches up to 4,500 meters.
Always be prepared for sudden weather changes by carrying a rain jacket and warm layers.
Build your basic fitness before the trek by doing regular walks or short hikes.
Take enough breaks while trekking to help your body acclimatize properly.
Pack only the necessary items to keep your backpack light and manageable.
Drink purified or boiled water and carry water purification tablets to stay safe.
Expect simple food and basic accommodation, especially at higher altitudes.
Bring enough Nepali cash, as there are no ATMs available along the trail.
Respect local customs, traditions, and always ask permission before taking photos.
Follow eco-friendly practices by carrying your trash and avoiding plastic waste.
Obtain your ACAP and TIMS permits in advance and keep them handy at checkpoints.
Buy travel insurance that covers trekking activities and emergency helicopter evacuation up to 5,000 meters.
Conclusion
Mardi Himal Trek is truly a hidden gem for beginners and adventure lovers who want to experience the real beauty of Nepal without the heavy crowds. With its short duration, breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and peaceful trails, it offers the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re planning your first trek in Nepal for 2025/26 or just looking for a short and easy hike near Pokhara and Kathmandu, Mardi Himal is an unforgettable journey.
By preparing well, respecting the local culture, and trekking responsibly, you’ll not only enjoy stunning landscapes but also create memories that will last a lifetime. So lace up your boots, pack your bag, and get ready to discover the magical world of Mardi Himal: a trek that proves big adventures often come in small, beautiful packages.
