Mardi Himal Trek - 10 Days
Region: Annapurna Region | Duration: 10 days | Difficulty: Easy | From $410
Trek Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek (10 Days) is a complete Annapurna region adventure that combines a peaceful Himalayan trekking experience with comfortable stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara. This well-paced itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors to Nepal who want both mountain exploration and cultural experiences without feeling rushed.The journey begins in Kathmandu with airport pickup, a welcome dinner, and a detailed trek briefing to ensure proper preparation. A scenic drive then takes you to Pokhara, where you can enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere before beginning the trek.The six-day trekking section follows a quieter route through lush rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and scenic ridgelines. As the trail ascends through Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp, the views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli become increasingly dramatic.The main highlight is reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), where trekkers are rewarded with spectacular close-up views of the Annapurna range. The peaceful trails and fewer crowds compared to other Annapurna treks make this route especially appealing for those seeking a more tranquil experience.The descent returns to Pokhara, allowing time to relax by Phewa Lake, explore cafés, or enjoy optional activities before returning to Kathmandu. These extra days provide time for recovery and a more complete travel experience.With a maximum altitude of 4,500 meters and well-maintained trails, this trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty and requires no technical skills. Comfortable teahouses during the trek and quality hotels in the cities make the journey both adventurous and comfortable.Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek in 10 days is perfect for travelers seeking a balanced Nepal experience that combines off-the-beaten-path trekking, mountain scenery, cultural discovery, and well-organized logistics.General InformationDetailInformationStart PointKande (via Pokhara from Kathmandu)End PointSiding (return to Pokhara then Kathmandu)Daily Walking3-7 hoursCity Days4 days (preparation/transport/recovery)Ideal ForFirst-timers, families, complete experience seekersWhat makes this 10-day version ideal:Complete first-time experience: See Nepal beyond just trekking (Kathmandu culture, Pokhara lakes, mountain villages, pristine wilderness)Comfortable pacing: Never rushed between destinations, proper rest before/after trekking, time to genuinely absorb experiencesBeginner-friendly: Low altitude (max 4,500m), gradual ascent, excellent support, achievable for fit beginnersFamily suitable: Comfortable for active families with teens, seniors in good health, multi-generational groupsValue package: All-inclusive from arrival to departure, no hidden costs, transparent pricingFlexibility buffer: Extra days accommodate weather delays, minor illness, or simply wanting more time somewhereWhether you're seeking serene Himalayan escape, perfect photography route under Fishtail's shadow, cultural immersion in Gurung villages, or simply achieving Himalayan base camp without extreme difficulty, this trek invites you to tread lightly and look deep into Nepal's heart.Why choose Nepal Visuals for the Mardi Himal Trek?A hidden gem guided by people who know it intimatelyMardi Himal remains one of the least visited trails in the Annapurna region. Our guides have walked its quiet ridgelines repeatedly and bring the kind of route knowledge that only comes from genuine experience on the ground.Closer to Machapuchare than almost any other trailThe Mardi Himal ridge offers some of the most intimate views of the sacred Fishtail peak in Nepal. Our itinerary builds in time at High Camp so you absorb that proximity rather than simply pass through it.Ten days paced for the ridge, not just the destinationThe gradual climb through forests, Low Camp, and High Camp is as rewarding as the summit views. Our schedule gives each section proper time so the journey itself feels worth every step.Altitude managed carefully on a steep and sustained climbThe trail rises sharply over a short horizontal distance. Our guides monitor your condition throughout the ascent and adjust the pace when needed, keeping your high camp day safe and achievable.Everything confirmed and waiting before you arriveACAP permits, Pokhara transfers, and teahouse bookings along the full Mardi Himal route are arranged in advance so your 10 days begin with momentum rather than morning paperwork.No costs appear after your booking is madeThe complete price of your 10-day trek is stated clearly from the outset. Permits, accommodation, and guide fees are all accounted for so your budget holds firm from Pokhara to the ridge and back.Forest trails and Gurung villages away from the crowdsThe Mardi Himal route passes through dense rhododendron and oak forests and small traditional settlements that see a fraction of the footfall of Poon Hill. Our guides make time to explore both properly.Trek-specific packing and fitness advice includedThe sustained ridge ascent and variable temperatures between the forested lower trail and exposed High Camp require specific preparation. We send tailored guidance to every trekker after booking is confirmed.Reachable support on a trail with limited connectivitySignal can be limited on the upper Mardi Himal ridge, making reliable pre-trek communication with your team even more valuable. We stay accessible via WhatsApp, Email, and Zoom throughout your journey.Your trek runs as booked, no matter the group sizeSolo trekkers are as welcome as groups and receive the same departure guarantee. Once your 10-day Mardi Himal Trek is confirmed, your ridge views and High Camp morning are locked in and protected.
Trek Highlights
Complete Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu (1,350m)
Welcome to Nepal! Representative greets you at airport with traditional Khada scarf, private vehicle transfer to 3-star hotel in Thamel. Afternoon rest after international travel. Evening welcome dinner at authentic Nepali restaurant with traditional cuisine and cultural dance performance. Meet trekking guide for comprehensive briefing: detailed itinerary explanation, altitude awareness, cultural protocols, packing final checks, permit distribution, all questions answered thoroughly. This preparation day crucial for confidence and proper equipment. Overnight 3-star hotel, Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m) - 6-8 hours
After breakfast scenic drive to Pokhara following Prithvi Highway through beautiful countryside: terraced hillsides, Trishuli River, traditional villages, possible Himalayan glimpses if clear. Lunch stop at riverside town. Arrive Pokhara late afternoon, transfer to comfortable lakeside hotel. Evening free to explore Lakeside area: restaurants, shops, cafes, boating on Phewa Lake, or simply relaxing watching sunset over water with Annapurna range backdrop. Dinner at leisure. Overnight 3-star hotel, Pokhara.
Day 3: Drive to Kande, Trek to Deurali (2,100m) - 3-4 hours trek
Morning drive from Pokhara to Kande (1 hour), trek starting point. Begin gentle uphill through forests, stone steps, local villages passing Australian Camp viewpoint. Arrive Deurali late morning, peaceful ridge village with first excellent Annapurna and Machapuchare views. Afternoon rest, short exploration, acclimatization. Overnight teahouse, Deurali.
Day 4: Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m) - 5 hours
Steady climb through spectacular rhododendron and oak forests (blooming spectacularly spring), fresh mountain air, bird songs, peaceful atmosphere. Arrive Forest Camp mid-afternoon, simple teahouses surrounded by tall trees, excellent Machapuchare views. Overnight teahouse, Forest Camp.
Day 5: Trek to Low Camp (3,035m) - 4 hours
Continue ascending through thinning forest transitioning to alpine zone, views opening with elevation. Arrive Low Camp mid-afternoon, dramatic ridge location with spectacular emerging Machapuchare and Annapurna South views. Afternoon rest, short acclimatization walks. Overnight teahouse, Low Camp.
Day 6: Trek to High Camp (3,550m) - 3 hours
Steeper rocky climb (2-3 hours) with stunning expanding views. Reach High Camp late morning, spectacular narrow ridge perch with panoramic Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchare vistas. Afternoon crucial rest and acclimatization before tomorrow's base camp push: hydrate constantly, carb-rich meals, prepare equipment. Early dinner, early bed. Overnight teahouse, High Camp.
Day 7: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) & Descend to Badal Danda (3,210m) - 7-8 hours
Early morning (pre-dawn optional for sunrise) ascent to Base Camp (3-4 hours). Spectacular alpine amphitheater surrounded by Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli. Time absorbing incredible setting, photos, celebration. Descend to Badal Danda for overnight (4-5 hours). Overnight teahouse, Badal Danda.
Day 8: Trek to Siding, Drive to Pokhara - 3-4 hours trek
Gentle descent through forests and terraced fields to Siding village (3-4 hours). Trek complete! Meet vehicle for drive to Pokhara (1.5-2 hours). Arrive afternoon, transfer to hotel. Hot shower, clean clothes, celebration dinner, rest and reflection. Overnight 3-star hotel, Pokhara.
Day 9: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu - 6-8 hours
After leisurely breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu through scenic countryside. Arrive afternoon, transfer to hotel. Evening free: shopping, dining, packing. Overnight 3-star hotel, Kathmandu.
Day 10: Final Departure
Transfer to airport based on flight time. End of unforgettable Nepal adventure!
Gears
Hygiene and Safety Essentials
Biodegradable Soap: Safe for the forest streams and water sources along the Mardi Himal ridge trailToothpaste & Toothbrush: Ten days on trail is long enough to make daily hygiene a genuine priorityHigh-SPF Sunscreen (50+): The Upper View Point ridge is fully exposed with no shade and strong UV reflection off snowUV-Protection Sunglasses: Snow glare near the High Camp and Upper View Point can be more intense than expectedLip Balm with SPF: Dry cold air above Forest Camp and High Camp cracks unprotected lips overnightFirst Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and blister plasters for minor trail issuesDiamox (Acetazolamide): The Upper View Point at 4,500m is high enough to warrant altitude sickness precautionsQuick-Dry Towel: Teahouses above Forest Camp are basic and towels are not provided for guestsHand Sanitizer: Running water becomes unreliable above Low Camp on the upper Mardi ridge sectionsPulse Oximeter: Monitoring blood oxygen near High Camp and the Upper View Point is a sensible precautionInsect Repellent: Lower jungle sections between Kande and Forest Camp attract insects in warmer monthsPersonal Prescriptions: Pack a full 10-day supply in a waterproof container before leaving PokharaTravel Insurance Documents: Helicopter evacuation from High Camp requires confirmed insurance before it can proceed
Electronics & Navigation Essentials
Camera / Smartphone: Mardi Himal's Upper View Point frames Machapuchhre closer than almost anywhere else in NepalPower Bank (20,000mAh+): Charging becomes scarce and expensive above Forest Camp on the upper ridge sectionsNotebook & Pens: The Mardi Himal ridge trail is one of Nepal's quieter treks and worth writing about each eveningHeadlamp with Spare Batteries: The pre-dawn climb to the Upper View Point requires a reliable headlamp from the startOffline Maps / Trekking App: Mobile signal drops out entirely on the upper Mardi ridge above Low CampUniversal Travel Adapter: Charge everything at lower teahouses before electricity access becomes unreliable above Forest CampSpare Memory Cards & Cables: Machapuchhre at close range fills a memory card faster than you expect up there
Layered Clothing
Thermal Tops: Wicks sweat on the humid lower jungle climb and retains warmth on the exposed upper ridgeThermal Leggings: Pulled on under trekking pants as temperatures drop sharply above Low Camp and High CampFleece Jacket: The reliable mid-layer for Forest Camp and High Camp teahouse evenings on the ridgeLight Puffer Jacket: Packable insulation for the cooler days moving between Low Camp and Forest CampWindproof & Waterproof Shell Jacket: The Mardi Himal ridge is exposed and sudden rain or wind arrives without any warningWaterproof Trekking Pants: Keeps legs dry on the rainy lower sections and on the snowy upper approach to High CampMedium-Weight Down Jacket: High Camp nights and the pre-dawn Upper View Point climb demand solid insulationWarm Hat: Head warmth is non-negotiable on the cold and exposed Upper View Point ridge at 4,500mInsulated Gloves: Fingers lose heat fast on the pre-dawn Upper View Point climb from High CampNeck Buff: Doubles as a wind and cold shield on the exposed Mardi Himal upper ridge sectionsZip-Off Trekking Pants: Converts to shorts on the warm humid jungle sections between Kande and Forest CampMoisture-Wicking Trekking Shirts (x3): Three shirts rotated over 10 days balances hygiene and pack weight on the ridge trail
Essential Trekking Gear
35L to 45L Backpack: A mid-sized pack handles 10 days of supplies comfortably on this ridge trailTrekking Poles: Essential on the steep and narrow ridge sections between Low Camp and High CampSleeping Bag (rated to -10 degrees C): High Camp nights on the Mardi ridge are cold and teahouse blankets alone will not cut itSturdy Hiking Boots: The upper Mardi ridge trail is narrow, steep, and slippery and demands proper ankle supportSleeping Bag Liner: Adds hygiene and warmth inside teahouse blankets on cold High Camp nightsWaterproof Pack Cover: Rain hits the Mardi ridge without warning and the lower forest sections are frequently wetInsulated Water Bottle: Keeps drinks from going cold on the exposed pre-dawn Upper View Point climbDry Bags: Keeps clothing and electronics dry through the wetter lower forest sections of the routeTrekking Gaiters: Blocks snow and mud from entering boots on the upper ridge sections near High CampLightweight Camp Sandals: Gives boots a rest inside teahouses at Forest Camp and High Camp at the end of each dayWool Trekking Socks (x4 pairs): Four pairs covers 10 days well with spares for wet sections on the lower forest trailEarplugs & Eye Mask: Good sleep before the pre-dawn Upper View Point start matters and teahouses are rarely quiet
Hydration & Nutrition
Water Purification Tablets: Treats stream and teahouse water reliably on all sections above Forest CampElectrolyte Sachets: The humid jungle climb and long ridge days drain hydration much faster than expectedEnergy Bars & Trail Snacks: Food options above Low Camp are limited so carry your own fuel for the harder daysInstant Coffee or Tea Sachets: A warm drink from your own supply before the Upper View Point climb sets the right toneVitamin C Supplements: Supports immune function across 10 consecutive days of outdoor physical exertion
Documentation & Money
Passport & Photocopy: ACAP checkpoints on the Mardi Himal route will verify your documents at entry pointsACAP Permit & TIMS Card: Both permits are required for any trekking inside the Annapurna Conservation AreaNepali Rupees (Cash): Teahouses above Forest Camp are cash-only so carry enough from Pokhara before you startEmergency Contact Card (laminated): Guide, family, and rescue contacts on one card for the full 10 days on the ridge
Environment & Sustainability
Reusable Water Bottle: Single-use plastic is restricted inside the Annapurna Conservation Area boundaryWaste Bags: The Mardi Himal ridge is a pristine and less-visited trail that deserves to stay that wayBiodegradable Soap & Sunscreen: Keeps the forest streams and water sources along the Mardi ridge clean and uncontaminatedReusable Cutlery: Reduces plastic waste across 10 days of teahouse meals on this quieter Annapurna trail
Media Gallery
5 images
7-Day Weather Forecast
Forecast for Annapurna Region. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
More Information On The Trek
The Complete Nepal IntroductionDay 1 (Kathmandu Arrival): Land at Tribhuvan International Airport, meet representative, transfer to comfortable hotel, evening welcome dinner at traditional Nepali restaurant with cultural show, comprehensive trek briefing with guide addressing all questions, gear checks, permit distribution. This dedicated preparation day ensures you start trekking confident and properly equipped rather than rushed after long international flight.Day 2 (Drive to Pokhara): Scenic 6-8 hour drive through countryside following rivers, terraced hills, traditional villages, with possible Himalayan glimpses if weather clear. Arrive beautiful lakeside Pokhara, evening relaxation by Phewa Lake, dinner at numerous excellent restaurants, rest preparing for trek start.Days 3-8 (Trekking): Six comfortable trekking days through forests, villages, to base camp and back. The gradual progression (Deurali 2,100m → Forest Camp 2,600m → Low Camp 3,035m → High Camp 3,550m → Base Camp 4,500m → descent) allows natural acclimatization.Day 8 (Return to Pokhara): Trek ends at Siding, drive back to Pokhara, hot shower, clean clothes, celebration dinner, rest and reflection.Day 9 (Drive to Kathmandu): Return drive allowing final countryside absorption, arrive Kathmandu afternoon, evening free for shopping/dining/packing.Day 10 (Departure): Airport transfer matching your international flight time.This structure provides complete experience without exhausting pace, ensuring memories of Nepal extend beyond just mountains to include vibrant cities, warm people, delicious food, and profound cultural insights.Why Choose 10 Days Over 6 Days?Comfort: Kathmandu/Pokhara hotel stays provide proper rest before/after trekking (not arriving jet-lagged and immediately starting trail).Cultural Depth: Time in Kathmandu and Pokhara allows experiencing Nepal's cultural richness, not just natural beauty.Recovery: Post-trek Pokhara day enables proper rest before long drive, arrival in Kathmandu with time to relax before departure.First-Timer Ideal: The 10-day structure perfect for Nepal newcomers wanting comprehensive introduction rather than just trekking.Flexibility: Buffer days accommodate weather, health, or simply wanting more time somewhere without derailing schedule.Value: All-inclusive package from airport arrival to departure handles everything for stress-free experience.Machapuchare: The Sacred Unclimbed PeakMachapuchare (6,993m) dominates all Mardi Himal views, its distinctive fishtail double summit creating iconic profile visible from Pokhara through trek's entirety. Sacred to local Gurung communities as Shiva's throne, climbing permanently banned—the mountain never summited, never will be. This protected status preserves pristine, mysterious character.At High Camp and Base Camp, Machapuchare's south face rises vertically just 3-4 km away creating overwhelming scale impossible to comprehend until experienced. The combination of distinctive shape, sacred significance, and dramatic positioning makes this one of Nepal's most photographed and revered peaks.Rhododendron Forest MagicTrek through extensive rhododendron forests blooming spectacularly mid-March through mid-May. Nepal's national flower grows as massive trees (not low shrubs) creating forest canopies 20-30 meters tall in crimson, pink, and white. Walking through blooming forest on sunny spring day with dappled sunlight filtering through petals creates ethereal atmosphere trekkers never forget.Gurung Villages and CulturePass through traditional Gurung villages (Deurali, Siding, nearby Landruk) where centuries-old mountain culture thrives: stone houses with slate roofs, prayer flags, traditional dress, warm hospitality, and genuine interactions with locals whose families have farmed these terraced hillsides for generations.
What Our Trekkers Say
Average rating: 5 | 3 reviews
By Aakash Patel | 3 months ago | Rating 5
We had a great experience on the Everest Base Camp trek with Nepal Visuals. Our guide Rupesh was very knowledgeable and patient with our many questions and many, many photo sessions during the trek. Resh, the CEO, was responsive and did a great job of taking care of our needs the entire time we were in Nepal. Wonderful experience overall, I would definitely book another trek with Nepal Visuals again.
By Deepak Patel | 4 months ago | Rating 5
“Nepal Visuals” planned the whole Everest Base Camp trek very well, they were always in control of different situations & the guide was very helpful, calm & explaining everything in detail. Resh was very prompt in answering all our questions before trek & took very good care of our family upon arrival in Kathmandu till we left. We recommend Nepal Visuals to all our friends & will definitely use them when we plan our Annapurna trek.
By laura perez | 4 months ago | Rating 5
From Cañete, Chile to the Magic of Everest Base Camp with Nepal Visual The dream of reaching Everest Base Camp came true for Luis and Laura, as we departed from Cañete, Chile, on September 30, 2025. After the journey, we landed in Kathmandu on October 2, where the warmth of our guide, Prim, welcomed us. The next day, our epic trek began. Before writing these lines, I reviewed the logistics that Nepal Visual had proposed for the trip; I must confess that they far exceeded our expectations. Everything went perfectly, demonstrating a level of professionalism and attention to detail that allowed us to focus solely on the beauty of the mountain and the experience. They took care of everything. Jepe (as Prim called the boss, warm and friendly), Prim, our guide in Spanish, did everything to make us feel good. He didn't have faith in us when he saw us, but later recognized how strong we were. Ram, our porter, a strong man with his smile and humility, and Rajat, who showed us the well-documented history of his capital, KMD. At the Capital Boutique Hotel, the receptionists, Anupama and Devendra, surprised us one morning by greeting us in Spanish. Our sincere congratulations and admiration to everyone for their work, "A Whole Team." Nepal Visual's service makes this magical: safe trekking, hotels, sufficient food, assistance with souvenir shopping, soaking up the culture, its spirituality, and connectivity. We recommend Nepal Visual to anyone looking for an unforgettable, magical, and, above all, hassle-free experience at Base Camp. They are a true team who put their heart and soul into their service and speak Spanish to the best of their ability. Nepal is also very safe. Thank you, Nepal Visual, you truly are a team. A total thank you!!! Signed: Laura and Luis. (From Cañete, Biobío Region, Chile)
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