Mardi Himal Trek
In Nepali: मर्दी हिमाल पदयात्रा
The Mardi Himal trail climbs a long, narrow ridge between the Modi and Mardi valleys, from forest full of rhododendron and hanging moss to open grassland at High Camp and a viewpoint at about 4,500 m, where Machhapuchhre's fishtail towers directly above.
Opened to trekkers in 2012, it has become one of the most popular short treks in Nepal, taking about 4–6 days from Pokhara with simple lodges all the way.
Day by day (typical)
Day 1: Kande to Forest Camp via Australian Camp. Day 2: Low Camp. Day 3: High Camp. Day 4: early climb to Mardi Himal viewpoint (upper base camp) and back down to Low Camp or Badal Danda. Day 5: descend to Siding village and drive to Pokhara.
What to see and do
The ridge from Low Camp to High Camp is spectacular, with Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli in front of you and a sea of clouds below. The forest sections are rich in birds, including the colourful Himalayan monal (Danphe).
Good to know
ACAP permit required. The trail above High Camp is exposed and can be icy; start early and turn back in bad weather. Lodges are small and fill up in peak season.
Quick answers
- Where is Mardi Himal Trek?
- Mardi Himal Trek is in Kaski district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Mardi Himal Trek?
- About 4,500 m (14,765 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Mardi Himal Trek?
- Mardi Himal Trek is in or right next to Pokhara, so it is an easy day visit. Budget for a taxi there and back (about NPR 600–1,500, US$5–11) and meals (NPR 1,000–2,500, US$8–19 per person). If you stay in Pokhara, rooms cost about NPR 1,500 / US$11–NPR 4,500 / US$33 a night.
- How many days do I need for Mardi Himal Trek?
- Half a day to a full day is enough; it is a short ride from central Pokhara.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Mardi Himal Trek?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Mardi Himal Trek?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Mardi Himal Trek?
- October–November; March–May
- How do I get to Mardi Himal Trek?
- Start at Kande or Phedi, 45 minutes from Pokhara. It is about 24 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Mardi Himal Trek called in Nepali?
- मर्दी हिमाल पदयात्रा
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