Moderate

Mardi Himal

Annapurna Region, Nepal

Duration

7 Days

Max Altitude

4,500m

Group Size

2-12 people

Best Season

Mar-May, Oct-Dec

Overview

Nepal's best-kept secret. The Mardi Himal trail was only officially opened in 2012 and still sees a fraction of ABC's traffic. Up-close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and the Annapurna range from perspectives few people ever witness. A trail that still feels discovered.

Trek Highlights

Dramatic close-up Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) views - Nepal's most iconic peak
Fewer trekkers than any other Annapurna-area route
Pristine trail opened in 2012 - ecosystems still largely untouched
High Camp at 3,580m offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Nepal
Mardi Himal Base Camp 360 degree panorama at 4,500m
Return via traditional Gurung villages of Lwang and Sidding

Day-by-Day Itinerary

01Pokhara to Kande to Forest Camp

Altitude: 2,620m

Day 1 — Pokhara to Kande to Forest Camp

02Forest Camp to Low Camp

Altitude: 3,050m

Day 2 — Forest Camp to Low Camp

03Low Camp to High Camp

Altitude: 3,580m

Day 3 — Low Camp to High Camp

04High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp

Altitude: 4,500m

Day 4 — High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp

05Return to Low Camp

Day 5 — Return to Low Camp

06Low Camp to Sidding Village to Lwang

Day 6 — Low Camp to Sidding Village to Lwang

07Lwang to Pokhara

Day 7 — Lwang to Pokhara

What is Included

All accommodation

All meals during trek

Licensed guide

Porter service

TIMS and ACAP permits

Pokhara transfers

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mardi Himal different from Annapurna Base Camp?

Mardi Himal is quieter (far fewer trekkers), offers dramatically close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) from a unique ridge-line perspective, and was only opened in 2012 so the trail and teahouses still feel unspoiled. ABC is inside a crater sanctuary; Mardi is an exposed ridge with 360 degree panoramas. Both are spectacular - Mardi is for those who want solitude.

How hard is the Mardi Himal trek?

Mardi Himal is rated Moderate. The trail climbs a sustained ridge from Kande to Base Camp over 4 days - it is steeper than Poon Hill but less demanding than ABC. The key challenge is the exposed ridge from High Camp to Base Camp at 4,500m. Our acclimatisation profile keeps altitude sickness risk low.

What is the best time for the Mardi Himal trek?

March-May is spectacular (rhododendrons, clear skies, warm days at lower camps). October-December is the classic post-monsoon window - crystal-clear visibility, the mountains absolutely stunning. The ridge above High Camp can carry snow in December-February, requiring micro-spikes or gaiters.

How much does the Mardi Himal trek cost?

Our 7-day Mardi Himal trek is $899 per person, fully inclusive - accommodation, all meals, licensed guide, porter, TIMS card, and ACAP permit. No hidden costs.

Can I combine Mardi Himal with Poon Hill?

Yes - we offer a combined 10-day Mardi Himal plus Poon Hill itinerary that uses the Gurung village loop between Lwang and Ghandruk to connect both routes. Contact us for a custom quote.

Trekker Reviews

Anna P. - Netherlands

2025-04-10

Mardi Himal blew me away - completely different from ABC, which I did two years ago. The ridge walk to base camp with Fishtail right in front of you is absolutely insane. And almost nobody else on trail. Annapurna Trails guide was superb.

Sam H. - New Zealand

2024-10-28

Hidden gem is exactly right. We had the High Camp teahouse basically to ourselves. Woke up to a private sunrise over the Annapurna range. This is why I trek. Faultless organisation.

Priya S. - India

2024-11-20

Perfect trek for someone who has done Poon Hill before and wants the next level. Great acclimatisation-friendly pace. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the local flora and culture.

Package Price

$899

per person, all permits included

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Quick Facts

Start Point: Pokhara, Nepal
Duration: 7 Days
Altitude: 4,500m
Difficulty: Moderate
Group Size: 2-12 people
Best Season: Mar-May, Oct-Dec