Mardi Himal Trek
A short, uncrowded ridge walk to a dramatic Annapurna viewpoint
Mardi Himal Trek overview
One of the newest and least crowded trails in the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal Trek climbs a narrow forested ridge directly toward the fluted south face of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993 m) and the hidden peak of Mardi Himal (5,587 m). Unlike the busier Annapurna Base Camp trail, Mardi Himal sees only a fraction of the foot traffic, despite views that rival any trek in the region. The route climbs quickly from subtropical forest through moss-draped rhododendron woodland to open alpine ridgeline, camping and lodging at Low Camp and High Camp before a final push to the View Point at 4,500 m, where Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre rise in a wall directly overhead. At just six days round-trip from Pokhara, it's an ideal choice for trekkers with limited time who still want a genuine high-altitude Himalayan panorama.
Country
Nepal
Duration
6 Days
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max. altitude
4,500 m (Mardi Himal View Point)
Best season
Mar–May / Sep–Nov
Difficulty level
Moderate
Itinerary
Short drive to the trailhead at Kande, then an easy afternoon trek through forest and farmland to Australian Camp, with early views of the Annapurna range.
Price includes
- Pokhara hotel pick-up and Kande / Siding transfers
- Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, 15 kg limit per trekker)
- Tea house / lodge accommodation for the duration of the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
- First aid kit carried by guide
- Emergency rescue coordination
- Trek completion certificate
What's not included
- International and domestic airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Accommodation and meals in Pokhara
- Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear including sleeping bag (rentals available)
- Hot showers and battery charging at High Camp and Low Camp
- Alcoholic drinks, snacks, and other personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters (customary)
Packing tips
Packing right is half the battle on any Himalayan trek. Keep your main bag under 15 kg — your porter will thank you. Everything in your daypack should be accessible on the trail.
Clothing & Layers
- Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 sets)
- Insulating mid-layer — fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and trousers
- Trekking trousers (convertible zip-off recommended)
- Warm hat, sun hat, and buff/neck gaiter
- Thermal gloves and waterproof over-gloves
- Woollen or synthetic trekking socks (5–7 pairs)
Footwear
- Sturdy, ankle-supporting trekking boots (broken in before the trip)
- Camp sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings at tea houses
- Waterproof gaiters for snow sections
Gear & Equipment
- 30–40 L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (reduces knee stress on descents)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag rated to −10°C (tea house blankets are provided but can be thin)
- Sunglasses with UV400 protection
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (3 L capacity recommended)
- Water purification tablets or a portable filter
Health & Safety
- Personal first aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic, and pain relief
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) — consult your doctor before
- High-SPF sunscreen and UV-protective lip balm
- Insect repellent (lower elevations)
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Frequently asked questions
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