Mardi Himal Trek - 12 Days

Highlights

• The Mardi Himal Trek offers stunning views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.
• This trek provides a quieter and less-crowded alternative to other popular trails in the Annapurna region.
• The trail features diverse landscapes, lush rhododendron forests, and unique Himalayan flora and fauna.
• Trekkers can experience the rich culture, traditions, and hospitality of the local Gurung and Magar communities.
• The trek can be customized for both short and long itineraries to suit different timeframes and fitness levels.
• This trek connects to other famous trails, serving as a gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a quieter, less crowded route with beautiful scenery and local cultural experiences. This trek takes you through stunning landscapes and gives you a chance to learn about life in the mountains. It is named after the long ridge on the southern side of Mt. Machhapuchhare, also called Fishtail, known for its unique triangular shape and striking summit.

The beautiful Mardi skyline can even be seen from the peaceful Phewa Lake in Pokhara. Located at the southernmost high point of the Annapurna mountain range, this trek offers amazing views of the central Himalayas, including five of the world’s 14 highest peaks. The Mardi Himal Trek is perfect for adventure lovers looking for a new trail with breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and the rich culture of the local people.

Our 12 days Mardi Himal Trek starts at Suiket Phedi near Pokhara and climbs to Dhampus, where you will enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhare (6,997 m) and the Annapurna ranges. The peaceful trail goes along ridges through forests of birch, rhododendron, hemlock, and pine trees. As you walk, you will see the towering peaks of Machhapuchhare and Annapurna South, while the Mardi Khola River flows gently through the valley below.

Along the way, you will have plenty of chances to explore and enjoy nature. The trek ends in Pokhara, where you can relax and reflect on your unforgettable experiences before flying back to Kathmandu.

Many trekkers have been seen wanting to extend their trip to explore more, especially in the Annapurna region. To make this possible, Himalayan Joy Adventure lets clients choose how long they want to spend on the trek, with options ranging from a short five-day trip to a longer two-week journey.

Bookings for 2025 are now open! Please contact us for more information or to customize your trip to fit your schedule, budget, and preferences.

Why is Mardi Himal Trek so popular?

Mardi Himal is a relatively new trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, officially opened for trekkers around 2012. It has become especially popular among domestic and international adventurers because it offers a chance to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in a short amount of time. Here are some reasons why people love this trek:

Many Camps Along the Trail

The trek has plenty of camps where trekkers can rest and enjoy the views. These camps provide basic services to make your stay comfortable. Some notable camps include Australian Camp, which has the most tea houses, and Babal Dada Low Camp, which offers the best view of Mt. Machhapuchhre during the trek.

Great for Solo Travelers

This trek is ideal for those who want to explore alone. It’s a relatively simple and short route, usually completed in five days, making it perfect for solo adventurers. You get the freedom to go at your own pace, and it’s also an affordable option. However, solo trekking is now restricted by the Nepal government for foreign trekkers, so hiring a guide is required.

Amazing Mountain Views in a Short Time

Mardi Himal Trek offers amazing views of the Himalayas in a short amount of time. Trekkers can enjoy spectacular, up-close views of famous peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal. The beautiful mountain scenery is visible throughout the trek, especially from higher points and the base camp.

Different Routes to Fit Your Needs

The trek provides flexibility with different routes to choose from, so trekkers can select the one that best fits their fitness level and time. Whether you prefer a shorter trek or a longer one, there’s a route for everyone.

Note: You can find details about the Mardi Himal Trek routes in the "Useful Information" section below.

Moderate Difficulty Level

The Mardi Himal Trek is moderately difficult, making it accessible for trekkers with average fitness levels. It doesn’t involve high altitudes or challenging climbs, which makes it a good option for people new to trekking or those looking for a more relaxed adventure.

Affordable for Travelers on a Budget

Compared to other treks in Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek is budget-friendly. With lower costs for permits and accommodation, it offers great value for trekkers who want to experience the Himalayas without spending too much money.

Also, check out our 9 Days Pikey Peak Trek, another budget-friendly option in the Everest region.

What can you expect from Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek offers a lot, providing a rich and fulfilling experience in a short period. It is one of the shortest treks that includes a perfect mix of adventure, breathtaking views, and cultural immersion. Here’s what you can enjoy on this trek:

Witness the Mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges

The Mardi Himal Trek offers amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, two of the most famous in the Himalayas. From key points like High Camp and Base Camp, you can see clear, wide views of the snow-covered peaks, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and the distant Dhaulagiri. These stunning sights, along with the quiet and peaceful environment, make the trek a truly memorable experience.

Discover the Spiritual Significance of Machhapuchhre Himal

Machhapuchhre, also called Fishtail Mountain, is very special to the local people. It is considered sacred and is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva. To honor its importance, the mountain has never been climbed. During the Mardi Himal Trek, you will feel the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of this beautiful peak. The local's respect and the stories they share about Machhapuchhre make it more than just a mountain—it’s a symbol of faith and devotion.

Gateway to Other Famous Trekking Routes

The Mardi Himal Trek is a great starting point for other popular treks in the Annapurna region. From here, you can easily join routes like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Poon Hill Trek. Its location makes it a perfect choice for trekkers who want to continue their adventure and explore more beautiful Himalayan trails.

Explore the Culture of the Magar and Gurung Communities

The Mardi Himal Trek gives you a special chance to experience the culture of the Magar and Gurung communities, the native people of the Annapurna region. These communities are known for their kind hospitality and have kept their traditional way of life, customs, and festivals alive for many years. Along the trail, you can visit their villages, meet local people, and learn about their stories, farming methods, and handicrafts. Their culture adds meaning to the trek, making it a truly memorable experience.

How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek is usually considered a moderate-level trek, with the highest point being High Camp at an elevation of 3,660 meters. It's not too easy, but it's also not too hard, which makes it a popular choice for beginners. The trek provides a good balance for those who are new to trekking and want a challenging yet enjoyable experience. However, it’s important to be in good physical shape to avoid problems like overexertion and altitude sickness, which can make the trek harder if not taken seriously.

How Long Does the Mardi Himal Trek Take?

The Mardi Himal Trek can vary depending on how a person wants to pace their journey. Generally, the trek can be completed in as little as 4 days, starting and ending in Pokhara. However, it can also take up to 10 days, depending on the route, pace, and additional exploration.

At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we offer a 12 days Mardi Himal Trek itinerary, starting and ending in Kathmandu. We also customize the dates, duration, and budget to suit our client's needs, ensuring a flexible and enjoyable trekking experience.

Why choose Himalayan Joy Adventure for your Mardi Himal trek?

There are different ways to plan your trek—you can either go solo with a freelance guide or book through an agency that handles everything for you, like the guide, budget, transportation, and permits. Our company is a government-licensed trekking agency with over 10 years of experience. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Experienced Guides and Support: Our experienced guides prioritize your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the trek. With their in-depth knowledge of the trail, local culture, and scenic highlights, they ensure a memorable and hassle-free journey.
• Customized Itineraries: We offer flexible itineraries tailored to your preferences. Whether you want a shorter trek or an extended adventure, we adjust the dates, pace, and budget to suit your needs.
• Small Group Treks for a Personal Experience: We specialize in small group treks to provide a more personal and immersive experience. This approach allows us to offer better attention to each trekker and encourage meaningful interactions with the local communities.
• Affordable Pricing: Our competitive pricing ensures you receive excellent value without compromising quality. Our packages include everything you need—guides, permits, accommodations, and meals—within a budget-friendly framework.
• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Experience the unique traditions of the Magar and Gurung communities as we guide you through traditional villages. Learn about their customs, lifestyles, and folklore, adding depth to your trekking adventure.

Cost of Mardi Himal Trek in 2025

The cost of the 12 Days Mardi Himal Trek in 2025 is between USD $700 and USD $900 per person. The price depends on how many days the trek lasts, the type of accommodation, and the services included.

At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we offer fair pricing for the 12 days Mardi Himal Trek, with rates based on the size of your group. Bigger groups get better discounts, and we make sure all groups get the same great service.

Please see the group cost breakdown below:

We also provide flexible packages that fit your schedule, preferences, and budget. Contact us via WhatsApp for more details and a personalized cost estimate!