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The Mardi Himal Trek is a short Himalayan trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region that takes you from subtropical forests and traditional mountain settlements to open ridges with close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.
The standard route reaches the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint at around 4,200 meters, passing through rhododendron forests, Forest Camp, Low Camp, Badal Danda, and High Camp before reaching the exposed upper ridge.
The trek is generally considered moderate, making it suitable for trekkers with reasonable fitness, including those with limited previous high-altitude trekking experience. As the trail lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, trekkers need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for legal entry.
The best time for the Mardi Himal Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clearer mountain views, stable trekking conditions, and comfortable day and nighttime temperatures.
The Mardi Himal Trek begins in Kathmandu, with a scenic drive to Pokhara followed by a short transfer to Dhampus, where the walking journey starts. From Dhampus, the trail passes through terraced fields, small mountain settlements such as Pitam Deurali, and forested sections toward Deurali and Forest Camp before gradually entering the higher landscapes of the Mardi Himal region via High Camp.
The lower route consists mainly of stone steps, earthen forest paths, and village trails, with rhododendron and oak forests covering much of the landscape. As you climb toward Low Camp and Badal Danda, the forest becomes thinner, and the trail opens into ridges with views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Some forest sections can become muddy and slippery after rainfall.
Beyond Badal Danda, the trail follows a more exposed ridge toward High Camp, where colder temperatures, strong winds, and steeper sections are common. The final ascent to the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint at around 4,200 m is the most demanding part of the route, involving a steep and uneven ridge trail. Snow may affect the higher sections during winter, while clouds and fog can reduce visibility.
After visiting the Upper Viewpoint, the trail descends through forests and open hillsides toward Siding Village, where the trekking section ends. From here, we will drive back to Pokhara before continuing to Kathmandu the following day. Overall, the route combines forest trails, traditional villages, terraced farmland, and high mountain ridges within a relatively short trekking distance of approximately 48–50 km.
Here are some alternative trips to the Mardi Himal Trek by Nepal Hiking Team:
Combine two iconic Annapurna viewpoints, Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint and Poon Hill, for a stunning sunrise/sunset view over the Himalayas.
Experience a community-based trek, staying in locally operated community lodges and enjoying panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri.
Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m, surrounded by dramatic mountain views including Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
From arranging permits, transportation, and teahouse accommodations to overall trek preparations, Nepal Hiking Team handles everything and provides necessary assistance to guests throughout the Mardi Himal Trek. Our team manages the logistics and routes, communicates trail conditions, and helps keep the trek running smoothly from Dhampus to Upper Viewpoint.
Our licensed guide keeps track of guests’ well-being as you gain altitude, maintains a steady pace, and provides first-aid support when necessary. Likewise, they monitor signs of altitude sickness or discomfort and coordinate appropriate assistance or even emergency evacuation if needed. This allows trekkers to fully focus on the trail, enjoy mountain views, and local culture along the Mardi Himal route.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you at the airport holding a Nepal Hiking Team placard and transfer you to your hotel.
After check-in, you will have time to rest and settle in. Later, you will meet your guide for a clear trip briefing, where we review the itinerary, check your gear, and collect the necessary documents. The remaining balance will be collected after the meeting.
We will provide essential trekking equipment, including a duffel bag, down jacket, and sleeping bag. You will also receive a route map, t-shirt, and cap for the trek.
Your guide will meet you at your hotel early in the morning at 06:30 and accompany you to the tourist bus station for the drive to Pokhara. The journey takes around six to seven hours, depending on traffic, following the Trishuli River with views of hills, rivers, and rural villages along the way.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the lakeside area at your own pace.
Instead of driving, you may upgrade to a flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara for a quicker and smoother transfer. The flight takes around 25 minutes and is available at an additional cost of USD 115 per person.
After breakfast, a short 40-minute drive takes you from Pokhara to Dhampus Village at 1,650 m (5,413 ft), where the foothills begin to rise more distinctly toward the Annapurna range.
From Dhampus, the trail ascends steadily through a mix of forest and cultivated hillside, following a well-used path toward Pitam Deurali. You pass through Pothana, where permits are checked, before continuing along a ridge that gradually opens to wider views.
On clear days, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) reveals itself ahead, its sharp peak standing apart from the surrounding ridgelines.
The day involves a total elevation gain of approximately 1,308 m (4,291 ft), with only minor undulating sections along the route.
By the time you reach Pitam Deurali, the air feels cooler and the setting more alpine, marking a steady and well-paced first day on the trail.
After breakfast, the trail leaves Deurali and slips into a quieter stretch of forest, where the path begins a steady, measured climb. Oak, maple, and rhododendron trees close in around the route, filtering the light and creating a cool, shaded atmosphere for much of the day.
The forest feels undisturbed, with only the sound of birds and the occasional movement of leaves marking your progress. The trail is well defined, rising gradually with a few short, steeper sections, though the overall pace remains comfortable.
As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes more secluded, and the sense of distance from the lower valleys becomes more apparent. By the time you reach Forest Camp at 2,600 m (8,530 ft), you will have gained approximately 470 m (1,542 ft) in elevation, with only minor undulating sections along the way.
Forest Camp itself sits in a small clearing within the trees, where a handful of simple lodges offer a quiet place to rest. The setting feels calm and contained, surrounded by forest, marking a gentle transition into the more remote sections of the Mardi Himal trail.
There are no settlements between Deurali and Forest Camp, so it is important to carry enough water and a few light snacks for the day. Plastic bottled water is not permitted along the Mardi Himal trekking route, in line with local conservation efforts, so bringing a reusable bottle is essential. Along the trail, lodges provide safe drinking water for purchase, either boiled or filtered.
After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily above Forest Camp through dense rhododendron and oak woodland, where the air remains cool and shaded as you gain height.
You reach Low Camp around midday, where the first wide views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) begin to emerge. From here, the route follows a narrowing ridge toward Badal Danda, a natural vantage point where Annapurna South and Hiunchuli come fully into view.
Beyond this point, the forest thins into alpine shrubland, and the landscape opens on both sides of the ridge. The final stretch to High Camp includes a few steeper sections as the terrain becomes more exposed.
By the time you arrive at High Camp at 3,550 m (11,647 ft), you will have gained around 950 m (3,117 ft) in elevation. Set on an open slope, it is one of the most striking viewpoints on the route, particularly as evening light settles across the peaks.
The day begins before dawn, as you leave High Camp around 4:00 am and follow a narrow ridge lit by headlamps. The climb toward the Upper Viewpoint is steady, with sections of loose rock and short, sharp ascents that demand careful footing.
As first light approaches, the horizon begins to open. Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the sharply defined summit of Machhapuchhre rise into view, their snow-covered faces catching the early sun. From around 4,200 m (13,780 ft), the shifting colours of sunrise unfold across the range in quiet succession.
After spending time at the viewpoint, you return to High Camp for breakfast before beginning the descent. The trail then follows the same ridge downward, moving through open alpine terrain with clear views extending across the valleys.
The route gradually drops to Badal Danda at 3,210 m (10,531 ft), with a total ascent of around 650 m (2,133 ft) followed by a descent of approximately 990 m (3,248 ft). Often sitting above a layer of cloud, Badal Danda feels elevated and still, offering a calm end to one of the most memorable days on the trail.
The hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp is not included in the standard itinerary. Those who choose to continue beyond the viewpoint should expect around two hours of steep ascent, with a similar return.
This extension adds roughly four hours to the day. Given the added effort and time, your overnight plan may be adjusted. The guide will assess weather, trail conditions, and group readiness before confirming the option.
The day begins with a steady descent from Badal Danda, as the open ridge gradually gives way to forested trails. The path winds through rhododendron and oak woodland, where the air grows warmer and the landscape feels softer with each step.
As you continue downward, the terrain opens into terraced fields and scattered hillside homes. The trail can be uneven in places, especially after rain, and passes through small settlements where daily village life unfolds along the route.
After several hours of descent, you arrive at Siding Village at 1,750 m (5,741 ft), a quiet Gurung settlement set among green hills and farmland. The total descent for the day is approximately 1,460 m (4,790 ft), with minimal ascent along the way.
From Siding, a scenic drive of around 2 to 3 hours brings you back to Pokhara. The road follows winding rural valleys before opening toward the lakeside city, marking a gentle return from the mountains.
We retrace the ridge from High Camp to Low Camp, with familiar mountain views seen from a different angle. From Low Camp, the trail turns toward Siding instead of returning via Rest Camp, descending through forest, terraced hillsides, and rural settlements.
Travellers can stop at Siding Village or continue to Ghalel Village. Ghalel is a traditional Gurung settlement known for its culture and community life. Many trekkers choose Ghalel over Siding for a closer view of Gurung heritage, including local food, daily routines, and traditional practices.
The return to Kathmandu follows the Trishuli River, winding through terraced hills and small roadside towns. As the journey unfolds, the landscape gradually shifts from high mountain terrain to the warmer, lower valleys.
On arrival in Kathmandu, you transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay, with time to rest after the long drive.
For those who prefer a shorter and more comfortable return, a 25-minute flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu is available. The airfare is USD 115 per person, one way, as an additional cost.
Your remarkable Mardi Himal journey comes to a thoughtful close today. After breakfast, we will transfer you comfortably to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. Our team ensures you arrive at least 3 hours before departure, giving you plenty of time to complete all check-in and security procedures without rushing.
As you prepare to leave Nepal, take a quiet moment to reflect on the experiences that shaped your trek—the misty forests above Dhampus, the golden sunrise illuminating Machhapuchhre, and the gentle rhythm of mountain life along the Mardi ridge. Every step carried you through breathtaking landscapes while guiding you toward a deeper connection with nature and yourself.
You leave with more than photographs or souvenirs. You carry the warmth of the people you met, the calm of high-altitude mornings, and the pride of standing beneath the mighty Himalayas. The Mardi Himal Trek becomes more than a journey; it becomes a memory woven into your heart, a story you will hold onto for years.
Until we meet again, Namaste—and safe travels.
Mardi Himal Trek with Nepal Hiking Team combines local route knowledge, organized logistics, and responsive guide support from Kathmandu to the high ridges and back to Pokhara. While our team handles necessary arrangements and logistics, trekkers can focus on the mountain scenery, the trail, and local communities along the route.
The Mardi Himal Trek package covers essential expenses such as accommodation, meals, permits, transportation, and guide services. The standard NHT’s Mardi Himal Trek cost is:
On the other hand, personal costs are not part of the package price and will vary depending on your preferences and usage during the trek.
|
Category |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
Details |
|
Hot Showers |
2-5 per use |
Available at select teahouses; cost increases with altitude |
|
Wi-Fi and Device Charging |
2-5 per session |
Limited availability above Low Camp |
|
Bottled or Boiled Water |
1-3 per liter |
Bottled water available up to Rest Camp, boiled water thereafter |
|
Snacks and Beverages |
2-10 per item |
Chocolate bars, tea, coffee, and soft drinks |
|
Extra Meals or Desserts |
5-10 |
Beyond the standard meal plan |
|
Laundry Services |
5-10 |
Offered in lower regions like Pokhara or Dhampus |
|
Souvenirs or Handicrafts |
Varies |
Locally made items are sold in villages along the trail |
These additional costs depend on trekkers’ personal needs, comfort, treats, and services throughout the trek. Lastly, budgeting USD $100 to $150 for personal expenses is sufficient, while also supporting local communities along the Mardi Himal route.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is the only permit required for the Mardi Himal Trek. It grants access to the Annapurna Conservation Area and supports both environmental protection and sustainable tourism throughout the region.
Your ACAP permit will be checked at Pothana, just before reaching Pitam Deurali, where all trekkers are required to register.
If you are trekking with a guided package, the permit is already included in your itinerary, so you do not need to handle any paperwork or formalities on your own.
Documents Required for the ACAP Permit:
The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) plays a crucial role in preserving local biodiversity, supporting community-led conservation initiatives, and maintaining essential trail infrastructure. By obtaining this permit, every trekker directly contributes to protecting the region’s fragile mountain ecosystem and ensuring that future travellers can enjoy the same pristine landscapes.
Meals along the Mardi Himal Trek are prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA). Every teahouse and lodge offers a range of hearty, energy-rich dishes such as dal bhat, seasonal vegetables, rice, lentil, soup, pasta, pancakes, and noodles. All meals are cooked fresh upon order, using locally sourced and grown ingredients whenever available.
Similarly, trekkers can find clean and safe drinking water at tea houses and lodges along the trail. Up to Rest Camp, you can get bottled mineral water at most teahouses and small shops along the trail. After Rest Camp, bottled water is not sold to support the Annapurna Conservation Area’s plastic reduction initiative.
Trekkers are advised to carry reusable water bottles and refill them with boiled water from the teahouses for an extra charge.
After passing the Pothana check post, loud music is strictly prohibited throughout the Mardi Himal region. This rule has been established by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) to protect the natural soundscape and maintain harmony within the forest environment.
The trail's quiet atmosphere is one of the most special parts of the journey. The gentle rustling of leaves, distant bird calls, and the steady rhythm of your own footsteps create a peaceful setting that allows trekkers to connect deeply with nature. Loud music can disturb wildlife and disrupt the calm, meditative experience that defines the Himalayan wilderness.
Trekkers are encouraged to honour this guideline by embracing the serenity of the trail and appreciating the stillness that surrounds them. It is often in these quiet moments that the true beauty of the mountains reveals itself.
Accommodation along the Mardi Himal Trek is simple, comfortable, and created to give trekkers a genuine mountain experience. Most overnight stays are in family-run teahouses or small lodges that offer basic rooms with twin beds, warm blankets, and shared bathrooms. Electricity and Wi-Fi are available in some lower villages, although connectivity becomes limited as you gain altitude.
Due to recent regulations controlling the number of rooms and beds allowed in each guesthouse, availability can be limited, especially during the peak trekking seasons in spring and autumn. During these busy months, trekkers may need to share rooms or, in rare cases, sleep in the dining area. For this reason, pre-booking is strongly recommended.
The Mardi Himal Trek is generally considered a moderate-level trek, making it suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness and some previous hiking experience. It does not require technical climbing skills, although certain sections can feel demanding, especially during long ascents and steep descents.
The trail gains altitude gradually over several days, giving your body enough time to adjust comfortably. The highest point of the standard route is the Mardi Himal Viewpoint, with the optional extension to Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500 meters (14,763 feet). The climb from High Camp to the Viewpoint and onward to the Base Camp is steeper, more exposed, and requires steady balance, focus, and endurance.
For first-time trekkers, maintaining a slow, steady pace is essential. Staying hydrated, taking regular breaks, and eating balanced meals all help manage the physical demands of the trail. Anyone with basic trekking preparation or a regular exercise routine will find the Mardi Himal route both achievable and deeply rewarding.
Overall, the combination of manageable difficulty, scenic diversity, and cultural charm makes the Mardi Himal Trek an excellent option for trekkers seeking a shorter Himalayan adventure without facing extreme altitude challenges.
The Mardi Himal Trek covers approximately 40 to 50 kilometres, depending on your chosen route and whether you include side trips to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint or the optional Base Camp. Most itineraries run for five to seven trekking days, offering a gradual pace that balances comfort, acclimatisation, and scenic enjoyment.
On average, trekkers walk 5 to 7 hours per day, covering 6 to 10 kilometres. The shortest day typically involves a 3 to 4-hour descent toward lower villages such as Siding. In contrast, the longest day usually spans 7 to 8 hours, especially during the ascent from High Camp to the Viewpoint and back.
The route is well-paced and ideal for trekkers seeking a shorter Himalayan adventure with impressive mountain views. Each stage reveals a different landscape, from cool forest paths and quiet ridgelines to open meadows and high-altitude viewpoints.
Although daily distances are moderate, the altitude gain can make some sections feel physically demanding. Maintaining a steady walking rhythm, staying hydrated, and taking proper rest breaks are essential for keeping each day comfortable and enjoyable.
The best time to trek to Mardi Himal is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable daytime temperatures, making the trek both enjoyable and safe.
Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Annapurna region. The forests burst into bloom with rhododendrons, magnolias, and a variety of wildflowers that paint the trail in shades of red, pink, and white. Days are pleasantly warm, and the mountain views are apparent in the mornings.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn arrives after the monsoon, bringing crisp air, deep blue skies, and excellent visibility. The trails are dry, and panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal are consistently spectacular. It is also the peak trekking season, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere in the teahouses.
Winter (December to February): Winter trekking is possible for those who appreciate quiet trails and solitude. Temperatures drop significantly, particularly at High Camp, and snowfall is probable. However, the skies are often clear, and the views remain stunning. Proper gear and warm clothing are essential.
Monsoon (June to August): Monsoon season is the least favourable time to trek due to heavy rainfall, leeches, and slippery paths. Despite the challenges, the landscape becomes lush and green, and trekkers who prefer solitude may still enjoy the route with extra caution.
Overall, spring and autumn provide the ideal balance of comfort, scenery, and adventure, making them the most recommended seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek.
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
I had the most amazing 9 days on this trek with my guide, Ramkrishna, and my porter, Muse. They made me feel so at ease from the moment I was picked up from my starting point all the way till the end. I quite literally didn’t have to think about any of the logistics.
I highly recommend booking your next trek with them. I also highly recommend the Mardi Himal Trek. Thank you, Nepal Hiking Team.
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+On a personalized Nepal tour that included the Mardi Himal Trek, Kathmandu, Pokhara, paragliding, and Chitwan, I had an amazing time with the Nepal Hiking Team. From start to finish, everything was really well-organized.
The group was patient, courteous, professional, and highly focused. Throughout the journey and the transfers, they constantly went above and beyond to make things more pleasant for me and fostered a great environment.
I strongly recommend the Nepal Hiking Team, particularly if you're searching for a well-planned vacation with competent, trustworthy, and truly kind individuals.
I just came back from Nepal after completing the Mardi Himal Trek with Nepal Hiking Team, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. NHT exceeded my expectations in every way. From the first email to the final goodbye at the airport, everything went smoothly and was perfectly organized.
Mr. Ganga was always kind, responsive, and very helpful throughout the entire process. A big thank you to my wonderful mountain guide, Bhishma, without whom I would never have completed the trek. He was extremely patient, vigilant, and gave me the confidence I needed during the more challenging sections of the trail. Bhishma is also very knowledgeable and always had answers to my questions along the way.
Our porter was also incredibly kind and always did his best to make things easier for me during the trek.
This was my first trekking experience in Nepal, but it certainly won’t be my last—and I will absolutely choose Nepal Hiking Team again. I highly recommend experiencing Nepal with them!
I had a very nice experience on the Mardi Himal Trek with Nepal Hiking Team, especially with my guide Ram, who was excellent throughout the journey. The views along the trail were absolutely stunning, from clear sunny days to beautiful snowy landscapes, making the trek even more memorable. I felt very lucky to experience such diverse scenery and truly enjoyed every moment of the trek. Highly recommended for anyone planning the Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal.
My family and I had an incredible experience trekking with Nepal Hiking Team, and we feel so lucky to have had Thakal as our guide. You can truly see how much care and pride the team puts into their work.
Thakal was amazingly knowledgeable, kind, funny, and full of heart. He was always looking out for everyone, making sure we were safe, comfortable, and enjoying each day. He shared so much knowledge about the mountains, local life, Nepali culture, plants, and animals. He also seems talented at everything, sharing songs on the drums, flute, and guitar, and even teaching us local dances!
Our porters, Ram, Sujan, and Nirjam, were just as wonderful always smiling, helpful, and full of positive energy, even after long days on the trail. We had so much fun with them. They are truly beautiful people, and we feel very lucky to have met them and shared this experience together.
Thakal also spoke highly of Ganga, one of the company’s owners, which was great to hear. It’s clear that the guides and porters are valued and supported by the company.
We couldn’t recommend them more amazing people, a great company, and an unforgettable adventure.
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Our Mardi Himal Trek group consists of 2 to 10 trekkers, with 6 to 8 participants on average. Once the booking is secured, our departures are confirmed whether the group has one or more participants. NHT postpones or cancels departures in exceptional circumstances such as major natural disasters, severe weather, or unsafe route conditions.
Yes, solo travellers can join the Mardi Himal Trek group if our scheduled departure dates align with their travel plans. While joining a group departure, solo trekkers receive the same professional service and safety standards.
Yes, you can swiftly book a private Mardi Himal Trek as a solo trip or with your friends and family only. Booking a private trek gives you complete control over departure dates, personalized itineraries based on your preferences, and services needed. Lastly, the price for a private trek will be slightly higher than our standard package cost.
Visitors from most countries can obtain a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You can fill out an online tourist visa application at the airport or beforehand, submit a passport with at least six months' validity, and pay the application fee.
However, visa eligibility and entry requirements differ for different nationalities, so guests are advised to check the latest requirements with the Nepal Department of Immigration before the trip.
Yes, Nepal Hiking Team offers airport pickup and drop-off services along with all ground transportation throughout a trek. On your arrival day, our representative will greet you at the airport and safely transfer you to your pre-booked hotel.
Likewise, on your departure day, our team will swiftly transfer you to the airport three hours before your scheduled flight.
While in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will stay at a 3-star category hotel such as Woodapple Hotel & Spa. Guests can upgrade their hotel to a 4-star or 5-star hotel upon request for an additional fee.
In Kathmandu, hotel accommodation is priced at USD 45 per night for single occupancy and USD 50 per night for twin or double rooms. The prices include breakfast and applicable taxes.
During the pre-trek briefing in Kathmandu, you will meet your trek guide, go through route updates, check your trekking gear, complete the necessary documentation, and settle any remaining trek balance. In addition, trekkers can clear any queries or questions regarding the trek.
Lastly, we will provide necessary trekking gear such as a down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking cap, a detailed trek map, and a duffel bag.
You can book the Mardi Himal Trek by selecting a departure date that aligns with your travel plans and filling out the booking form on NHT’s website. After further inquiries, guests are required to make a 20% deposit to secure their reservation. Besides this, flight and travel insurance details can be added later.
Trekkers can settle the remaining Mardi Himal Trek balance after arriving in Nepal with cash, online payment, wire transfer, or card payment.
Once you confirm your Mardi Himal Trek, the 20% deposit is non-refundable, as the deposit covers advance arrangements for guide booking, permits, transportation, and accommodation.
In case of cancellation, the deposit amount is converted into future travel credit with Nepal Hiking Team without any expiry date. Guests can easily use the credit for a future trek or tour with us.
Transportation and Pokhara Flights
Yes, you can book flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara, making them a convenient alternative to travelling by road. The flights cost USD 115 per person one way and are not included in the trek package cost.
The tourist bus normally departs around 6:30 to 7:00 AM. Your guide will pick you up from the hotel and assist with the transfer and bus arrangements. Departure times can change slightly depending on the transport provider and road conditions.
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered easy to moderate and is suited for travelers with basic fitness and active hikers. The trekking portion spans 47-50 km, starting from Dhampus and ending in Siding, passing through varied terrain. Guests can prepare for the trek with regular hiking, walking, jogging, or leg workouts a month prior to the trek.
The Mardi Himal Trek covers approximately 47-50 km of walking, from Dhampus to Siding, and the total travel distance is approx. 250-270 km. The total distance also depends on the transportation route and road conditions.
There is no fixed age limit for the Mardi Himal Trek, as it is suitable for children, young adults, or older travellers with good health and a basic fitness level. However, young trekkers, especially under 16, are recommended to travel with a parent or a guardian for proper supervision and support.
Trekkers can start preparing physically for the Mardi Himal Trek with light cardio exercises such as squats, jogging, stair climbing, and regular walking. Likewise, guests can go for weekly 5- 6-hour hikes with a loaded backpack to build endurance, leg strength, and break in their hiking boots beforehand.
Yes, travel insurance is required for the Mardi Himal Trek. International travelers should make sure their policy covers high-altitude trekking up to 5,000 m, emergency medical treatment, helicopter rescue, and evacuation.
Based on our previous guests’ reviews, some reliable service providers are Genki Traveler, AXA Travel Insurance, World Nomads, and Allianz Travel Insurance.
Our licensed guides have extensive high-altitude trekking experience and monitor trekkers’ health along the trail with an oximeter. They maintain a steady pace throughout the trek and recommend turning back when trekkers show serious symptoms of altitude sickness.
Also, our guides carefully select teahouses that provide good hygiene, food, and reliable services for a smoother trekking experience. In case of a serious emergency, our guides coordinate helicopter evacuation and other rescue support to keep the Mardi Himal Trek safe and well-managed.
The best time for the Mardi Himal Trek is during spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November. During these months, the weather is stable and comfortable for trekking conditions in the Annapurna region with clear mountain views.
No specific vaccinations are required for the Mardi Himal Trek; however, getting a rabies vaccination as a precaution can be useful, as trekkers can come in close contact with pets or free-roaming dogs along the trail. Also, it is best to consult your doctor or a health professional about necessary vaccinations based on your travel plans and medical history.
To reduce the risk of altitude sickness during the Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers should maintain a steady pace, allowing their body to adjust to the increasing elevation. Likewise, you should avoid alcohol at higher altitudes, get proper rest, and inform your guide immediately if you experience headache, nausea, dizziness, or unusual fatigue.
Your main luggage or the duffel bag will be carried by our porter. One porter is assigned at a 1:2 ratio, meaning two trekkers will share one porter who will carry a combined load of 25 kg (12-12.5 kgs per trekker).
Besides this, guests can carry a daypack with essentials such as water, snacks, medication, phone, camera, cash, and other necessary items.
Yes, guests can leave their non-essential or extra luggage at a Kathmandu hotel while on trek. This allows trekkers to travel light and avoid unnecessary weight, making the trek smoother and more enjoyable.
Yes, Nepal Hiking Team provides essential trekking gear, such as a sleeping bag, a down jacket, and a duffel bag for the Mardi Himal Trek. Our down jacket and sleeping bags are designed to handle temperatures below -15°C, ensuring comfort during cold mountain nights.
In addition, we also provide a detailed Mardi Himal Trek map, NHT t-shirt, and a cap for sun protection.
Yes, each trekker is presented with an official Mardi Himal Trek completion certificate on the final day in Kathmandu, recognizing their successful trip. The certificate recognizes your achievement of reaching the Upper View Point at around 4,200 m in the Mardi region.
During the Mardi Himal Trek, accommodation is teahouse-based and lodge-based, offering twin-sharing rooms with beds, mattresses, and clean bedding. In the lower regions like Deurali, teahouses offer private rooms with attached bathrooms and hot showers. The facilities become more basic with simpler meals, shared rooms, and bathrooms as you reach higher elevations.
Yes, trekkers can get Wi-Fi on the Mardi Himal Trek for an additional cost. The charges depend on altitude and the teahouse’s per-hour rates. Similarly, travellers can purchase a local SIM card (NTC or Ncell) in Kathmandu or Pokhara and purchase a data package for internet connection. However, as you gain altitude, mobile network and internet speed gradually become slower or lose connectivity.
Most teahouses or lodges on the Mardi Himal Trek provide charging facilities for NPR 200-500 per device. As electricity can be less reliable at higher elevations, trekkers are advised to carry a power bank as a backup to charge their phone and camera.
During the Mardi Himal Trek, most teahouses have Western-style toilet facilities. As the trail has gained popularity, facilities such as toilets are being upgraded for trekkers’ comfort and needs.
Meals and Drinking Water
Teahouses along the Mardi Himal Trek provide a variety of meals, including dal bhat, noodles, pasta, soups, momo, and other local and international cuisine. These meals are prepared freshly upon order using ingredients that are locally grown or commonly available.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan meals are available during the Mardi Himal route, whereas gluten-free options may be more limited depending on the lodge. Trekkers can let their guide know about their food allergies or specific dietary requirements on the trail to plan their meals accordingly.
Safe drinking water is available at multiple points along the Mardi Himal route. Likewise, trekkers can purchase bottled water or boiled water from teahouses and lodges throughout the trek at a certain price.
Moreover, guests are advised to use a refillable water bottle and water purification tablets to purify natural spring water and reduce plastic waste.
Yes, you can customize your Mardi Himal Trek when you book a private trip. Guests can adjust pacing, rest days, and other arrangements that suit their preferences and needs throughout the journey.
Group departures follow a fixed itinerary and schedule, which helps keep the cost more affordable. On the other hand, private treks are slightly more expensive than the standard package due to tailored services.
Yes, Nepal Hiking Team also runs guided city tours in Kathmandu along with other cities like Pokhara, Lumbini, and Chitwan. These guided tours offer up-close insights into temples, monuments, cultural landmarks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tipping your guides and porters is a common way to show appreciation for their hard work, service, and dedication during the Mardi Himal Trek. You can tip the guides and porters based on your budget, experience, and the level of service provided at the end of the trek in Pokhara.
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you can budget around NPR 25,000 to 30,000 for extra expenses and amenities such as Wi-Fi, hot showers, charging, cold drinks, and snacks. Also, it is best to withdraw the amount you need in Kathmandu or Pokhara, as ATMs are not available along the higher sections of the Mardi Himal route.
