Mardi Himal Adventure Trek – A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region. The Mardi Himal Trek, located in Nepal’s renowned Annapurna region, is one of the most adventurous and scenic trekking routes in the country. Ideal for those seeking, pristine natural beauty, and a peaceful escape, this trek offers an unforgettable experience far from the crowds.
Led by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition, the journey takes you through quiet, high-altitude trails with breathtaking views of iconic Himalayan peaks such as Machapuchare (Fishtail), the Annapurna Range, Lamjung Himal, and Dhaulagiri. Much of the route passes through untouched rhododendron forests, with no human settlements in sight, making it a truly serene and immersive experience. Lodges are located in remarkably remote areas, adding to the sense of adventure. In Mardi Himal hike there is a view point which is popularly known as Upper view point (4200m) From this viewpoint, trekkers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna Mountain range, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal itself. Usually, trekkers go to this view point before dawn to enjoy sunrise which is very spectacular. After enjoying amazing view return back to same lodge where we spent last night.
On the return journey, you’ll pass through small, traditional villages inhabited by the Tamang and Gurung communities, offering a glimpse into local mountain culture and daily life. The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4500m, up to Mardi Himal base camp with some steep and challenging sections. It is well-suited for adventurous and reasonably fit trekkers who are looking to explore a lesser-known, yet incredibly rewarding trail in the Himalayas.
Itenerary:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu(1337m)
Day 03: Pokhara – Deurali (2100m) via Kande (1770m) (1 hour drive then 4-5 hour walk
Day 04: Deurali – Forest Camp (2500m) 4-5 hours walk
Day 05: Forest Camp – Badal Dada(3360m) 3-4 hours walk
Day 06: Badal Dada – High Camp (3580m)3-4 hours walk
Day 07: High Camp – Upper view point (4200m) – Low Camp(2970m) 6-7 hours walk
Day 08: Low Camp – Pokhara (822m) via Siding Village (18850m) 6-7 hours walk
Day 09: Explore Pokhara – paradise city of tourist (827m)
Day 10: Pokhara –Kathmandu (1337) 6-7 hours travel by tourist bus
Day 11: Shopping /Rest in Kathmandu Sightseeing in Bhaktapur 3-4 hours
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern while traveling with Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. The trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is necessary due to unfavorable circumstances. Unfavorable weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, or an unexpected natural disaster can force changes to the itinerary. However, every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary. The lead guide will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Important Also:
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy, or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and insure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337)
You are welcomed to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal renowned for historical monuments, Hindu Temples, and Buddhist Stupas/Monasteries. We meet our guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative will be waiting with a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition placard with our guests’ names displayed. Dropping luggage at the hotel take rest after long and tiring air journey.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu(1337m)
A local guide will be available. According to your wishes, the guide will escort you for sightseeing. Sightseeing may include the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupati, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square, and the Swoyambhunath areas. Starting after breakfast, usually at 9.00am, the exploration of Kathmandu Valley can continue until 4.00pm. Lunch and dinner, you will be responsible for.
Day 03: Pokhara – Deurali (2100m) via Kande (1770m) (1 hour drive then 4-5 hour walk
Today after breakfast, we drive for about one hour and we reach to Kande the starting point of the trek a small village. The trek from Kande to Deurali on the Mardi Himal route begins with a steady uphill climb through forested trails and stone steps, leading to Australian Camp, a scenic viewpoint offering stunning panoramas of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges. From there, the trail continues with a gentle descent followed by a gradual climb through lush rhododendron forests to reach Pothana. After a brief rest, the path ascends again through serene woodlands, eventually arriving at Deurali, a peaceful ridge-top village with breathtaking mountain views—an ideal stop for acclimatization and rest.
Day 04: Deurali – Forest Camp (2500m) 4-5 hours walk
Today we trek from Deurali to Forest Camp (also known as Kokar) which is a scenic and moderately challenging section of the Mardi Himal Trek. The trail winds through lush rhododendron and oak forests, offering a tranquil atmosphere with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. As we ascend gradually, the path becomes quieter and more serene compare to popular routes like Annapurna Base Camp. In the trek gentle climbs and some narrow, forested trails, making it a peaceful and immersive experience in nature. Overnight in forest camp.
Day 05: Forest Camp – Badal Dada(3360m) 3-4 hours walk
Today we trek from Forest Camp to Badal Danda (also called Cloud Hill) which is a scenic, moderately challenging trail. We climb steeply through dense rhododendron, oak, and juniper forest. After some time, we’ll reach low Camp before the trail opens onto alpine ridges. As we ascend above the tree line, Himalayan giants like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli emerge. Badal Danda offering a breathtaking “above‑the‑clouds” perfect place for panorama, acclimatization, and absorbing the quiet ridge‑top atmosphere.
Day 06: Badal Dada – High Camp (3580m)3-4 hours walk
Today we trek from Badal Danda to High Camp which is a stunning high-altitude journey. The trail climbs steadily along a narrow ridge above the tree line, offering uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal. The landscape transitions from grassy slopes to rocky alpine terrain, with occasional sightings of yaks and Himalayan birds. The trail can be windy and exposed, so we should proceed cautiously. High Camp is perched on a ridge with panoramic mountain views and this is the last place which has facilities of lodge for trekkers in this hiking route.
Day 07: High Camp – Upper view point (4200m) – Low Camp(2970m) 6-7 hours walk
Today we hike from High Camp to the Upper Viewpoint early in the morning, the trail is a challenging yet rewarding. The trail ascends steeply along a narrow, rocky ridge with dramatic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Reaching the Upper Viewpoint feels like standing on the edge of the Himalayas, with panoramic vistas and a raw alpine atmosphere. At this view point we will fine seasonally hut where tea, coffee and hot soup are served to trekkers. After soaking in the scenery, we descend back to High Camp, then continue the long downhill journey to Low Camp through open ridges and dense rhododendron forests. The entire day demands strong legs and good stamina, but rewards with unmatched beauty and changing landscapes.
Day 08: Low Camp – Pokhara (822m) via Siding Village (18850m) 6-7 hours walk
Today we trek from Low Camp to Siding Village which is a scenic downhill descent. The trail drops steeply through lush rhododendron and oak forests before transitioning into terraced farmland and traditional Gurung settlements. Unlike the ridgeline trails higher up, this route is quieter and more culturally immersive. we’ll pass small waterfalls, streams, and local homes as we descend into the warmer climate. From Siding we drive to Pokhara by vehicle. The drive begins on a rough, paved road through hills and farmland before joining a smoother highway near Lumre, continuing past small towns and scenic valleys until reaching Pokhara.
Day 09: Explore Pokhara – paradise city of tourist (827m)
We are in a naturally beautiful city Pokhara. After breakfast, we go to Lakeside where we enjoy boating for some time go to visit Peace Stupa on a hillock across the Fewa lake. We come back and have lunch in one of the restaurants in the Lakeside. After lunch, we go to visit Devis Fall. Then we visit some natural caves called Gupteshwor Mahadev cave, Mahendra Gufa and ChamereGufa (Bat Cave) international mountain museum.
Day 10: Pokhara –Kathmandu (1337) 6-7 hours travel by tourist bus
Today We catch a bus to Kathmandu right after breakfast. The bus stops on the way for lunch. We can enjoy our bus tour since the road runs along the Marsyangdi and Trisuli River. The distance is just 200 km but the road is winding. So, we drive slowly through the jungle along the Marsyangdi River in the beginning. Then from Muglin, we drive along the Trisuli River through the jungle, terraced fields and small cities on the way. At the place called Kuringhat, we witness Nepal’s cable car service: Manakamana Cable Car. The cable cars fly above the Trisuli River, several green hills and villages to the famous Manakamana Goddess Temple of Gorkha District. The term “Manakamana” means the “Wish of our Spirit”. The pilgrims to Manakamana Goddess Temple believe that the Goddess will make their wish fulfilled. We sometimes see the rafters in the Trisuli River through the window of the bus. Eventually we reach Kathmandu.
Day 11: Shopping /Rest in Kathmandu Sightseeing in Bhaktapur 3-4 hours
This day you spend on your own either looking around Kathmandu, buying a souvenir for your friends/family or you can have full rest or prepare for going back to your home country. Or if you wish you will be taken to Bhaktapur for sightseeing for 4 hours. But you have to extra charge for this. In the evening you will be served the Farewell Dinner by the company.
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye.
Max Altitude: 4500m
Best Season: March to April & September to December
Difficulty Level: Moderate
December, January, and February
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So, hiking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in the Himalayas. Though it gets colder in a night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively fewer trekkers on the trail. Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So, a tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see a splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange a family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikes and cultural tour. It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Temal homestay,Temal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit.
March, April, and May
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze are felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of a cloud can be seen in the sky during this season. So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of an expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal. So many tourists from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period. Peak climbing period can be in length up to June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programs during this period. This period offers plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.
June, July, and August
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slightly difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang, Upper Dolpa, Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
September, October, and November
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our treks. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes. This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favorable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal. Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period. So many tourists come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m is the best destination for climbing in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of the nature of Nepal in this season.
Equipment & Packing List
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items