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The Mardi Himal Trek – Pokhara to Pokhara is a short trek, is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking mountain views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural encounters. This short, yet stunning trek takes you to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,200 meters, providing a close-up view of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli peaks. If you’re looking for a less crowded trekking experience with all the beauty the Annapurna region has to offer, this 4-day trek is an ideal option.
The best times to explore the Mardi Himal trek are during autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). During these seasons, the weather is clear and stable, offering the best views of the surrounding mountains. Rhododendron forests are in full bloom in spring, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. While winter (December-February) offers clear skies, the cold temperatures and snow can make the trek more challenging. The monsoon season (June-August) is not recommended due to heavy rains and slippery trails, though the lower regions can be lush and green.
Note: If you have 10 days to spend in Nepal, the 10 days’ Mardi Himal Trek is a fantastic choice. This trek provides a more immersive experience compared to shorter treks. You’ll have the chance to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, and stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, where the trek kicks off. You start ascending through lush forests and terraced farmlands. The trail from Kande passes through Australian Camp (2,060m) and Pothana (1,950m), offering the first glimpses of the Annapurna range. After Pothana, you’ll head towards Deurali (2,100m), where the trail starts to feel more remote as you enter the dense rhododendron and oak forests.
As you continue uphill, you reach Forest Camp (2,550m), a small settlement surrounded by dense greenery. The camp provides basic teahouse accommodation, and the evening can be spent relaxing in the serene surroundings.
On the second day, the trail gradually ascends as you leave the dense forest behind. You’ll trek through Low Camp (2,970m), where the tree line starts to thin, revealing more open views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range. The landscape begins to change as you continue climbing, with fewer trees and more alpine meadows, where yaks and grazing livestock can be seen.
After a short break at Low Camp, you’ll push on towards Badal Danda (Cloud Hill), where the views become more panoramic. The final stretch takes you to High Camp (3,580m). High Camp is located on a grassy ridge and offers spectacular mountain views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The night here will be cold, but the dramatic scenery makes it worthwhile.
The third day is the most exhilarating, as you ascend towards Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail from High Camp to the base camp is steeper and more rugged. You will trek along a narrow, grassy ridge, with breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and the Annapurna range to your right.
Upon reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,200 meters, you’ll find yourself standing among towering peaks, with Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre looming directly above. After soaking in the majestic mountain scenery and taking plenty of photographs, you’ll descend back to Middle Camp for an overnight stay.
The final day begins with a steady descent from Middle Camp through rhododendron forests and terraced farmland as you head towards Siding Village. Siding is a traditional Gurung village nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, and here you’ll witness the local lifestyle and culture up close.
The trek ends at Siding, from where a vehicle will drive you back to Pokhara. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, and you’ll arrive in Pokhara by late afternoon or evening, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible adventure.
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered moderate. The ascent to High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp can be steep and challenging in parts, but the trek is generally accessible to people with a reasonable level of fitness. If done in 4 days, the trek involves long trekking hours each day, making it more strenuous than the 5-7 day version.
You will need two permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Costing about $30 USD.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card: Costs around $20 USD.
Accommodation is typically in teahouses along the route. These are basic lodges offering simple rooms with shared facilities. The higher up you go, the more basic the amenities. Meals consist of local and international options, with dal bhat (a lentil soup with rice) being a staple.
You’ll need a good pair of hiking boots, warm clothes (as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes), a rain jacket, a hat, gloves, and trekking poles. Don’t forget to carry a water bottle and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized on the trail.
The cost of the trek can range from $300 to $600 per person, depending on the season, services, and accommodation type. This typically includes transportation, permits, guide and porter fees, accommodation, and meals.
Yes, the Mardi Himal trek is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. However, since this 4-day itinerary involves longer trekking hours each day, it’s more physically demanding than a 5-7 day version.
Accommodation is in teahouses, which provide basic lodging and meals. The facilities are simple but comfortable, with communal dining areas and shared bathrooms.
A guide is recommended, especially for first-time trekkers. They not only help with navigation but also offer insights into the local culture and ensure your safety.
Essentials include warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy trekking boots, trekking poles, a hat, gloves, and a water bottle. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, so layering is key.
Since Mardi Himal Base Camp is at 4,200 meters, there is a risk of altitude sickness. However, the relatively slow ascent in the itinerary helps with acclimatization. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy.
If you're short on time but still want a full Himalayan trekking experience, the 4-day Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent choice. It offers stunning mountain views, cultural immersion, and the adventure of reaching a high-altitude base camp—all in a short time frame. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a beginner looking for a moderately challenging trek, Mardi Himal will not disappoint.
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