Mardi Himal Trek Complete Guide: Accommodation, Height, Itinerary, Cost & Tips

11th Mar, 2026

- teamramadventure

Mardi Himal Trek ranks among the most beautiful short treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trail passes dense rhododendron forests, narrow ridges, alpine landscapes, and traditional mountain settlements before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp. Trekkers enjoy dramatic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli throughout the route.

Many trekkers select the Mardi Himal Trek due to shorter trekking duration, moderate difficulty, and peaceful trails compared with other Annapurna routes. The trek begins near Pokhara and gradually climbs along scenic ridges until reaching the spectacular viewpoint at Mardi Himal Base Camp.

This complete guide explains Mardi Himal Base Camp height, accommodation and hotels along the trail, itinerary options, trekking permits, total cost, packing list, and comparison with Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Location

Mardi Himal Trek lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. The trekking route begins near Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most famous tourism cities.

The trail runs along a ridge east of the Annapurna Base Camp route. Trekkers enjoy close mountain views during most of the trek.

Major mountains visible from the trail include:

• Machhapuchhre (6,993 m)
• Annapurna South (7,219 m)
• Hiunchuli (6,441 m)
• Mardi Himal (5,587 m)

The route provides one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the Annapurna region.

Mardi Himal Base Camp Height

Many trekkers search the exact altitude before planning the trek. Mardi Himal Base Camp height stands at approximately 4,500 meters above sea level.

Height profile of Mardi Himal Trek:

• Pokhara – 822 m
• Kande – 1,770 m
• Forest Camp – 2,520 m
• Low Camp – 2,970 m
• High Camp – 3,580 m
• Mardi Himal Base Camp – 4,500 m

Trekkers reach high altitude during the final day hike from High Camp to Base Camp. Proper acclimatization and gradual walking reduce altitude risk.

Altitude Tips for Mardi Himal Trek

Follow these safety guidelines during the trek:

• Walk slowly and maintain steady pace
• Drink enough water every day
• Avoid alcohol at higher altitude
• Add acclimatization stop at Low Camp or High Camp
• Descend immediately if severe altitude symptoms appear

Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.

Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Trekkers complete the Mardi Himal Trek in 5 to 7 days depending on walking pace and itinerary design.

5 Days Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 1
Drive from Pokhara to Kande and trek to Forest Camp through rhododendron forests.

Day 2
Trek Forest Camp to Low Camp. The trail climbs through alpine forest with mountain views.

Day 3
Trek Low Camp to High Camp along scenic ridge trails.

Day 4
Early morning hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and return to Low Camp.

Day 5
Descend to Siding village and drive back to Pokhara.

6 Days Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 1 Pokhara to Deurali
Day 2 Deurali to Forest Camp
Day 3 Forest Camp to Low Camp
Day 4 Low Camp to High Camp
Day 5 High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and return to Low Camp
Day 6 Descend to Pokhara

7 Days Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 1 Pokhara to Deurali
Day 2 Deurali to Forest Camp
Day 3 Forest Camp to Low Camp
Day 4 Acclimatization day at Low Camp
Day 5 Low Camp to High Camp
Day 6 High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp
Day 7 Return to Pokhara

Accommodation and Hotels in Mardi Himal Trek

Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek consists mainly of teahouses and mountain lodges. Facilities remain simple but comfortable.

Common accommodation stops include:

Forest Camp
Small lodges located inside dense forest areas. Rooms include twin beds and shared bathrooms.

Low Camp
Several teahouses provide dining halls, warm food, and mountain views.

High Camp
Few lodges located near the ridge. Basic rooms with blankets and shared toilets.

Typical lodge facilities

• Twin sharing beds
• Shared bathrooms
• Charging points for electronics
• Dining hall with heating stove
• Hot showers with additional charge

Hotels Near Mardi Himal Trek

Most trekkers stay in hotels in Pokhara before and after the trek.

Popular trekking hotels are located in:

• Lakeside Pokhara
• Damside Pokhara

These areas offer trekking gear shops, restaurants, transport services, and trekking agencies.

Permits for Mardi Himal Trek

Trekkers must obtain two permits before starting the trek.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Permit cost:

• Foreign trekkers – NPR 3,000
• SAARC trekkers – NPR 1,000

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

• Foreign trekkers – approximately NPR 2,000

These permits support conservation efforts and trekking management.

Mardi Himal Trek Cost

Total trekking cost depends on trekking style, number of days, guide services, and transportation.

Average cost of Mardi Himal Trek ranges from USD 400 to USD 900 per person.

Major cost factors include:

• Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Accommodation during trekking days
• Meals and drinks during trek
• Guide or porter services
• Trekking permits
• Trekking gear rental

Guided trekking packages often include permits, accommodation, guide support, and transport.

Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek

Two seasons offer best trekking conditions.

Spring Season (March to May)

Clear weather and blooming rhododendron forests create beautiful trekking scenery.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Stable weather and excellent mountain visibility attract many trekkers.

Winter Trekking (December to February)

Cold weather occurs at High Camp but trails remain quiet and peaceful.

Monsoon Season (June to August)

Heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and cloudy mountain views occur during this period.

Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek

Trekkers should prepare proper equipment before starting the trek.

Essential clothing

• Down jacket
• Fleece jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking pants
• Thermal base layers

Footwear

• Trekking boots
• Wool socks
• Camp shoes

Equipment

• Sleeping bag suitable for cold weather
• Trekking poles
• Backpack 30 to 40 liters
• Headlamp

Other essentials

• Water purification tablets
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Personal first aid kit

Mardi Himal Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trekking Duration

Mardi Himal Trek requires about 5 to 7 days. Annapurna Base Camp trek requires about 7 to 12 days.

Crowd Level

Mardi Himal Trek remains quieter with fewer trekkers. Annapurna Base Camp route receives heavy trekking traffic.

Accommodation

ABC route provides more developed lodges. Mardi Himal lodges remain simpler.

Mountain Views

Both treks provide impressive views of Annapurna mountains. Mardi Himal ridge offers extremely close views of Machhapuchhre.

Altitude

Mardi Himal Base Camp height reaches 4,500 m while Annapurna Base Camp stands at 4,130 m.

Why Choose Mardi Himal Trek

Trekkers select this trek for several reasons.

• Short and scenic Himalayan trek
• Easy access from Pokhara
• Less crowded trekking route
• Excellent Annapurna mountain views
• Suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers

Conclusion

Mardi Himal Trek offers one of the most rewarding short trekking experiences in Nepal. The route combines dense forests, alpine landscapes, ridge trails, and dramatic Himalayan views. Trekkers reach an impressive altitude while enjoying peaceful trails and authentic mountain lodges.

For trekkers searching a short yet spectacular Himalayan adventure, Mardi Himal Trek stands among the best trekking routes in the Annapurna region.

FAQs about Mardi Himal Trek

What is the height of Mardi Himal Base Camp
Mardi Himal Base Camp stands at approximately 4,500 meters above sea level.

How many days are required for Mardi Himal Trek
Most trekkers complete the trek in 5 to 7 days.

Are there hotels in Mardi Himal Trek route
Accommodation mainly includes mountain lodges and teahouses. Full hotels are available in Pokhara.

Is Mardi Himal Trek difficult
The trek is moderate difficulty and suitable for beginners with basic fitness.

Do trekkers need permits for Mardi Himal Trek
Yes. ACAP permit and TIMS card are required.

What is the best time for Mardi Himal Trek
Spring and autumn seasons offer best weather and mountain views.