Package OverviewThe Mardi Himal Trek via Kande is a scenic and less-crowded Himalayan journey in the Annapurna region, ideal for trekkers seeking dramatic mountain views in a short timeframe. Starting with a drive from Pokhara to Kande, the trail ascends gradually through lush rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests before entering high alpine terrain. The route passes charming settlements such as Pitam Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
The highlight of the trek is the ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), where trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna massif. Descending through Sidding Village adds a cultural dimension, allowing insight into rural mountain life. With its peaceful trails, diverse scenery, and close-up Himalayan panoramas, this trek is perfect for both first-time and experienced trekkers looking for an authentic Himalayan experience.
Trip ItineraryDrive duration: approx. 1-hour | Trek duration: approx. 4–4.5 hours’ trek | Altitude: 1925 m
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, winding through terraced hills, rivers, and charming villages. The views of the Annapurna foothills start to unfold as you leave the city behind and enter a more serene, natural setting. From Kande, the trek to Pitam Deurali starts with a gentle ascent through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, dotted with small streams and waterfalls. Along the way, you may see local farmers tending to their terraced fields and hear the melodies of birds, making for an immersive introduction to Himalayan life.
The lodge at Pitam Deurali provides a warm welcome and a chance to rest and acclimatize. As the sun sets, you’ll witness the surrounding peaks glowing in the golden light, offering a magical first glimpse of the mountains that will dominate your trek over the coming days. This initial day is a perfect balance of trekking, exploration, and soaking in the peaceful environment.
Trek duration: approx. 6 hours | Altitude: Forest Camp 2600m / Low Camp 2985m
Today’s journey begins with a forested trail ascending gradually through dense rhododendron and bamboo groves. After about 2–2.5 hours, you’ll reach Forest Camp (2600m) for a relaxing lunch amid serene surroundings, with birdsong and the gentle rustling of trees accompanying you. From here, the trail steepens and opens up to panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) rising dramatically ahead and Annapurna South to your left.
Low Camp (2985m) is a quaint lodge situated amidst alpine terrain. As you reach the camp, you’ll notice the vegetation thinning and the air growing crisper, hinting at the higher altitudes to come. This section of the trek also provides glimpses of waterfalls, Cliffside trails, and occasional sightings of local wildlife such as Himalayan birds and small mammals. Low Camp is a perfect place to rest, absorb the first major mountain vistas, and prepare for the more challenging ascent ahead.
The trail to High Camp takes you into higher alpine terrain, where the Himalayan landscape becomes even more dramatic. The path winds through steep ridgelines and open meadows, offering increasingly panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South. On a clear day, the surrounding peaks sparkle under the morning sunlight, and the sense of isolation in the vast mountains is both humbling and exhilarating.
High Camp (3550m) is strategically located to provide stunning sunset and sunrise views. The lodge or campsite offers a perfect perch to soak in the grandeur of the Himalayas, with Machhapuchhre’s distinct fishtail peak dominating the horizon. This day is not only a physical accomplishment but also a chance to immerse yourself fully in the alpine environment, with opportunities to photograph the snow-capped peaks and observe the transition from forested slopes to barren high-altitude landscapes.
Trek duration: approx. 4–5 hours’ round trip to Base Camp / descent to Low Camp: 3–4 hours
Altitude: Mardi Himal Base Camp 4500m / Low Camp 3210m
The day’s highlight is the trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp, which rewards your efforts with uninterrupted 360-degree views of the Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding valleys. The trail is steep and more rugged but immensely rewarding. For those preferring a shorter day, a viewpoint midway offers equally breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped peaks and the terraced landscape below.
After soaking in the scenery, you descend back to High Camp before continuing to Low Camp at 3210m. The descent allows for a more relaxed pace, giving trekkers time to notice subtle details like alpine flowers, local bird species, and the serenity of the forested trail. This day combines the exhilaration of reaching the Base Camp with the satisfaction of descending through varied landscapes, making it a truly memorable segment of the trek. Overnight at Low Camp offers comfort and reflection on the journey so far.
Trek duration: approx. 2.5 hours | Drive duration: approx. 1–1.5 hours | Altitude: Sidding Village ~1500m
The final day is a gentle descent through terraced farmland, subtropical forests, and traditional villages. The trail offers glimpses of daily rural life, including local farming practices, stone houses, and small shrines. The walk is peaceful, allowing trekkers to reflect on the adventure while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Upon reaching Sidding village, you board a shared jeep for the drive back to Pokhara. The journey through winding roads provides views of the valley, rivers, and distant mountains, offering a fitting conclusion to the trek. This final stretch encapsulates the essence of Mardi Himal — a journey through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine ridgelines, culminating in lasting memories and deep connections with the mountains.
Trekking Gears And Equipments
Sweet Memories
