Mardi Himal Trek

Before booking your Mardi Himal Trek, it’s a good idea to know how this adventure works.

We’ll review the route you’ll walk, the permits you’ll need, as well as the accommodations and meals you can expect during the trek.

Nepal Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most rewarding short routes to walk in the Annapurna Region.

This trek begins with a leisurely drive from Pokhara to the trekkers’ starting point in Kande.

From there, you walk on the trail through peaceful forested paths and past viewpoints like Australian Camp, dipping down and gradually coming back up to the higher ridgelines around Forest Camp, Low Camp, Middle Camp and High Camp.

Along the way, trekkers experience the full range of emotions from peace in the rhododendron forests to panoramic views of the Himalayas that encompass Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

For those wondering about the exact Mardi Himal trek distance, the total kilometers of walking is somewhere between 45 km and 52 km on the trek, depending on the route you choose to take.

Our 12-day package offers the ideal amount of walking each day, allowing us to explore the trek comfortably with time to acclimatize, take photographs, interact with the culture and rest along the way.

If you prefer something faster, we also offer  5-day, 6-day or 7-day Mardi Himal customized treks on request.

You are stepping into a restricted area, especially the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you will need entry tickets to access the area. 

These permits help to support local communities, protect the environment, facilitate trail maintenance and ensure your safety while trekking in the Annapurna region.

If you are Nepali citizens, you don’t need these permits.

However, all foreign trekkers are required to have two permits:

ACAP Permit

The primary trekking permit for your trek is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.

Since 100% of the Mardi Himal trekking route falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, all international trekkers are required to obtain this permit.

ACAP costs around NPR 3,000 ($25) for international trekkers, whereas if you are from SAARC nations, you will pay only NPR 1,000 ($8).

It helps support sustainable tourism, trail repairs & local communities.

This permit is valid for your entire trek and will be checked at multiple checkpoints.

The ACAP permit is crucial for trail maintenance that supports conservation and the management of wildlife protection.

TIMS Card (Trekker Information Management System)  

The TIMS card serves one primary purpose: your safety.

It is to help manage the record of trekkers in the Himalayas.

If emergencies arise, dangerous weather is anticipated or rescue is required, the authorities will track you from this card to determine your location on the trail.

The cost of a TIMS card is approximately NPR 2,000 ($17), whereas SAARC nationals will have to pay NPR 1,000 ($8).

Where and How to Obtain the Permits

You may acquire both permits from:

• Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu
• ACAP Office, Pokhara (Damside)

Rather than standing in long lines at the Nepal Tourism Board, we process all Mardi Himal trek permits for you.

You get to start your trek right away without any paperwork or fee confusion.

One of the main attractions of the Nepal Mardi Himal trek is the opportunity to experience warm and genuine teahouse culture in the Himalayas. 

Teahouse Accommodation (Twin-Sharing Rooms) 

You will stay in local teahouses, run by mountain families, as you travel from Kande to Forest Camp and in the direction of High Camp. 

You can expect to have: 

• Twin-sharing rooms
• Warm blankets and pillows 
• Shared or private bathrooms (depending on altitude)
• Heating in the dining halls at night
• Kind conversation and cultural aspects 

While facilities become less deluxe as you ascend, the Himalayan views become more breathtaking, especially while staying at Low Camp, Middle Camp and High Camp. 

Meals on the Trail — Fresh & Energy-Focused 

The food is healthy, warm and a good mix of foods to sustain you through your Mardi Himal trekking journey. 

Typical meals include: 

• Dal bhat (the power meal of Nepal trekking) 
• Vegetable soups, noodle soups
• Fried rice, chapati sets, pasta 
• Pancakes, Tibetan bread, omelets 
• Tea, coffee, hot lemon, ginger tea 

You can charge your devices, take a hot shower (for a fee) and have Wi-Fi at nearly every teahouse — all normal to trekking life in Nepal!

Homestays in Siding Village add another layer of connection to cultural aspects, so you get to experience rural hospitality before returning home.

You don’t have to sacrifice comfort when you are trekking the Mardi Himal trek.

Each night, you will stay in local tea houses with warm and friendly locals.

Tea houses are the simplest form of lodging, with local families cooking warm food and providing a nice place to sleep.

Although food and accommodation along the trail are simple, they are safe and clean.

You sleep with a view of the Himalayas and have meals that will replenish your energy.

What to Expect from your Mardi Himal Trek Accommodation

Most Mardi Himal trek accommodation will have twin rooms with comfortable beds, blankets and pillows.

Some tea houses have shared bathrooms, while others have private toilets at lower elevations.

Rooms will not be heated, but you will often see fires in the dining rooms to keep you warm.

As you ascend, it gets more basic, but the views are even more amazing.

It may cost a little extra to charge phones, get Wi-Fi or a hot shower.

Food Choices and Meal Plans

You will eat all your meals at the tea houses where you spend the night.

The food is fresh and cooked daily in the tea houses and is included in most packages for trekking in Mardi Himal.

Typical dishes served at tea houses include dal bhat, soups, noodles, fried rice, pancakes and chapati.

Tea, coffee and bottled water are also served.

Most meals are vegetarian, which is ideal for a healthy diet at high altitude.

Pro Tip: Bring a few snacks/energy bars as an extra supplement fuel, especially on longer days!

The Mardi Himal Trek’s difficulty is surprisingly easy for most trekkers.

It’s probably one of the easier Himalayan treks in Nepal, with equally impressive mountain scenery without you having to face any challenging terrain.

From the moment you step onto the trail, our guides at Nepal Base Camp Treks set a pace that feels almost effortless to navigate safely and enjoyably.

Whether it’s your first time trekking or it’s been years since you’ve been in the mountains for a leisurely hike, Mardi Himal delivers the perfect level of effort for comfort.

Altitude Profile & Elevation Gain

The Mardi Himal trek altitude profile ascends at a gentle angle, providing your body with adequate time to adjust to each increment of altitude.

You begin the trek at Kande, which is at a low altitude, then slowly hike through forest trails and scenic ridgeline trails until you arrive at High Camp, finally getting to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4500 meters.

Due to the hike being a shallow ascent, most trekkers will find the altitude accessible.

So, the altitude profile of the Mardi Himal trek goes like:

• Kande – 1,070 meters
• Forest Camp – 2,550 meters
• High Camp – 3,580 meters
• Mardi Himal Base Camp – 4,500 meters

This gradual height gain allows your body to acclimatize, particularly with our thoughtful pace.

Fitness Level and Training for Beginners

You don’t need to be in elite shape for the Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal; however, having a moderate level of fitness will benefit you.

As the Mardi Himal trek distance covers around 41–52 km over several days, you have time to build up a rhythm with your legs, allowing them to adjust slowly.

If you are capable of walking for 2–3 hours at home, you are ready for this moderate adventure in the Himalayas.

What can you do before the trek:

• Walking or jogging for 3-4 times a week
• Stair climbing to build up leg strength
• Practicing with a light backpack that simulates the real trek (not overdoing the weight)
• Doing some stretching routines to build flexibility

Our guides will always adjust the pace to suit you, so that you’ll never feel rushed.

Our treks are meant to be enjoyed, not endured!

Altitude Sickness & Prevention

Although the Mardi Himal trek peak is only 4,500m, the risk of altitude sickness is reduced compared to similar Annapurna treks because you are constantly ascending gradually and sleeping at a safe point below the altitude.

However, you must stay alert.

The most common indications of altitude sickness are:

1. Pain in the head
2. Decrease in desire to eat
3. Trouble with sleeping
4. Nausea or mild dizziness
5. Not able to catch your breath while walking

These indications are normal and easily managed if detected early.

Some Straightforward Prevention Options:

1. Drink 3-4 liters of water a day
2. Do not drink alcohol at altitude
3. Walk slowly and take breaks regularly
4. Report any headache or dizziness symptoms immediately

Our Nepal Base Camp Treks team will have a first aid kit along, plus we will use an oxygen meter every day to ensure safe acclimatization during your trek.

Is It Safe for Kids and Seniors?

Yes, the Mardi trekking section is one of Nepal’s best high-altitude family trekking routes.

We routinely take kids (8+) and seniors (65+) on this trek and we adjust the pace according to them and the amount of additional assistance they need.

There are no technical sections, dangerous cliffs or a need for climbing gear; therefore, this is one of the safest Himalayan adventures for mixed-age groups.

Why It’s Safe:

1. Marked trails
2. Teahouse to sleep in
3. Daily monitoring from licensed guides
4. Fewer hours walking per day than ABC or EBC
5. Ability to modify rest time, stopovers or days into the length of time walking!

The ideal time to make the trek from Mardi Himal is when the skies are clear, the trails are dry and the Himalayan views are at their peak. 

Spring and autumn are considered the best times to trek Mardi Himal, while winter and monsoon cater to the most adventurous trekkers.

Spring (March–May)

Spring offers new colors, blooming rhododendron forests, and mild sunshine along the ridges of the trek.

Mornings will be crisp, while the afternoons will remain warm, making for long scenic walks.

Daytime temperatures will be around 5°C to 10°C, while the nighttime drops to around 5°C to –2°C on the higher trails above 3,400m.

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn is the favourite season for trekkers to seek the clearest views of the Himalayas.

The air is clean, the sky turns a deep blue, and the golden forests in the lower area for contrast in pictures.

During the daytime, the temperature ranges from 8°C to 12°C and drops to around 4°C to 10°C at night.

Winter (December–February)

Winter brings crystal-clear, cool visibility and quiet snow-covered trails for the trekkers.

Colder and quieter, it is ideal for those who appreciate stillness and beautiful, dramatic scenery.

The daytime temperatures will be around –2°C to 4°C and drop to a surprisingly cold –10°C to –5°C at night.

Monsoon (June–August)

The monsoon transforms the Annapurna region into a lush green world with swirling mist and quiet forest trails.

Although visibility can change in minutes, the landscapes feel very alive and refreshing.

The daytime temperatures in the upper segment of the region stay around 4°C to 8°C, while the night temperatures vary from –2°C to –6°C.

It is easy to understand what you need to ack once you know the trail and weather conditions in Mardi Himal..

With our experience from leading thousands of trekkers, the team at Nepal Base Camp Treks has simplified everything into a simple, practical Mardi Himal trek packing list.

You don’t need heavy equipment — most of the essentials can be rented in Pokhara and our guides will help confirm all your gear before the trek begins.

Clothing Essentials (Layer Wisely)

To be comfortable on forest trails, ridge walks and chilly mornings, you need to pack light layers that keep you warm (without adding bulk, of course).

Bring:

1. Quick-dry base layer
2. Light fleece / warm mid-layer
3. Down jacket (can be rented in Pokhara)
4. Waterproof jacket & pants
5. Trekking pants + breathable shirts
6. Warm hat, sunhat, buff (i.e., neck gaiter)
7. Warm gloves

Footwear & Trekking Gear

On this trek, comfort-fitting shoes with good support are the most important factor.

Recommended:

1. Broken in trekking boots
2. Evenings sandals
3. Sunglasses + sunscreen
4. Trekking Poles (useful on the descent)
5. Water bottle/hydration bladder

Essentials for Your Daypack

Your guide will carry the bags, so your daypack has all the essentials you’ll want to have quick access to.

You’ll want to carry:

1. A camera or phone to take pictures of the magnificent views.
2. Snacks and electrolytes.
3. A rain cover.
4. A power bank.
5. Your ID and permits (our guide takes care of the ACAP Permit and TIMS)

Toiletries and Personal Care

Tea houses may not have the facilities you are used to, so you’ll want to carry basic toiletries for your personal comfort.

You should pack:

1. A toothbrush and toothpaste
2. Wet wipes and sanitizer
3. A quick dry towel or bandana
4. A lip balm and your preferred moisturizer

Health and Safety Kit

The Mardi Himal trek is moderate, but altitude affects everyone

1. Basic first aid kit
2. Diamox to prevent altitude sickness (check with your doctor first)
3. Blister tape
4. Any personal medications
5. Travel insurance that covers altitude sickness and a backcountry evacuation plan

1. Travel insurance with high altitude coverage up to 4,500m is required, as Mardi Himal Base Camp is the upper limit of a standard trekking policy.
2. Choose a policy that includes helicopter evacuation, coverage for serious medical emergencies, trip cancellation, delays in flights and insurance for lost luggage if travelling with photography equipment.
3. Take your time! Most altitude sickness occurs because the trekkers move quickly, often thinking that they are healthy and feeling good.
4. Drink 3-4 liters of water per day for hydration and to alleviate altitude symptoms.
5. Avoid constant alcohol and sleeping pills at high altitude, as it makes breathing more difficult.
6. Inform your guide immediately if you experience headaches, dizziness, nausea and excessive fatigue, even if the symptoms are mild.
7. Carry just a daypack so that you have energy; the porters will carry the excess.
8. Wear appropriate layers and protect your ears, hands and face from elements as the cold wind picks up quickly above Low Camp.
9. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately because the best antidote for altitude sickness is to descend!
10. Have your insurance policy and a representative of the company with you if rescue coordination or assistance is required unexpectedly.

The Mardi Himal Trek passes through quiet forest and open ridges in the Annapurna Conservation Area; therefore, there will be several opportunities for you to spot wildlife during your trek.

Animals You Can Expect to See 

You should also be on the lookout for Himalayan langur monkeys, barking deer, musk deer, or, occasionally, yaks or Himalayan thar grazing, somewhere near High Camp.

Generally, wildlife can be seen in the early morning or afternoon period when the trail is less crowded.

Birdlife Along the Trails

Mardi Himal is also an excellent trek for bird lovers.

Keep your eye out for the colorful Himalayan Monal (Danphe), kalij pheasants, sunbirds, as well as all of the small forest birds.

Sunrise is the best time to observe birds’ flight.

Best Time To See Wildlife 

If you want to maximize your chances of spotting animals and birds, spring and autumn are the best times, when visibility of the forest itself is better.

Respect the Wildlife

You are walking through their home, so please try and move slowly and quietly.

And do not disturb, feed or chase any animal or bird.

Finally, remember that poaching, abusing wildlife or collecting their parts is illegal and punishable by Nepal’s conservation law.

Selecting from the most popular trekking routes in Nepal can be complicated, especially since each trail has its own unique charm.

Below is a clear and helpful comparison of Mardi Himal vs Annapurna Base Camp and the favoured combo option of Mardi Himal and poon hill trek that serves its purpose to help choose which trek might be your best fit based on your style, time and adventure goals.

Mardi Himal vs Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

If you are choosing between the two, it is simple;

Mardi Himal is wild, quieter and ridge-based, while Annapurna Base Camp is cultural, a classic trek and valley-based.

Both are stunning treks, but the experience is quite different.

Key Differences at a Glance

Mardi Himal and Poon Hill Trek

If you want a short, beautiful, beginner-friendly itinerary, the Mardi Himal and Poon Hill trek is one of the best options.

This trip offers the famous Poon Hill sunrise, along with wild and beautiful landscapes of Mardi Himal, all in a relatively short timeframe.

Side by Side Snapshot

Local Knowledge You Can Sense with Every Step 

Our guides are born and raised in the Annapurna region, and have developed firsthand knowledge of the Annapurna Conservation Area, forest trails, weather phenomena and cultural details to navigate you every ridge and viewpoint on the Mardi Himal trek.

Custom and Flexible Itineraries for Every Trekker 

We can customize the trek to your desires, whether you choose one of our comfortable 12-day Mardi Himal trek packages or you prefer more flexibility on a shorter 5-7 day journey.

We will modify the route, timing for acclimatization, daily itinerary and pace to meet your fitness level, your interests (photography spots, cultural experiences, etc.) and your travel schedule.

Safety-First Experience Delivered by Experts 

Your trek is guided by trained professionals who possess the skills, training and experience to develop an exercise and a risk plan, respond appropriately, provide first aid and troubleshoot any issues.

That way, you can be confident and comfortable when on a narrow ridge or making your way to High Camp.

20+ Years of Experience and Reviews You Can Trust

With over twenty years of experience and positive traveler referrals, we have established a solid reputation as a dependable and reputable trekking agency in Nepal.

We handle arrangements smoothly, provide professional guides and offer memorable experiences in the mountains.

Your trek to Mardi Himal is only one click away. 

If you are picturing picturesque ridge-line walks, stunning sunrise backdrops to Machhapuchhre and a hassle-free experience, let us help you. 

We take care of your permits, guides, accommodations, meals and safety so you just get to enjoy the trek. 

If you prefer our 12 days or just a customized, slightly shorter trek, we will customize everything to your travel style and pace.

Please click the Book Now button and secure your dates for 2025–26.

Your Himalayan adventure starts here.