Package OverviewThe Mardi Himal Trek is a spectacular Himalayan journey that offers a mix of adventure, cultural experiences, and breathtaking mountain scenery, all in a relatively short timeframe. Starting from Pokhara, the trek passes through lush forests, traditional Gurung villages, and alpine meadows before reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). Trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and other surrounding peaks.
The route includes scenic viewpoints like Australian Camp and High Camp, where sunrise and sunset vistas over snowcapped peaks create unforgettable experiences. The descent follows charming villages and terraced farmlands, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying changing landscapes from alpine forests to subtropical valleys. The trek concludes back in Pokhara, combining adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insights in one remarkable journey.
Trip ItineraryAfter a scenic drive through terraced fields, rivers, and small settlements, you start trekking from Kande. The trail winds through lush forests of rhododendron and oak, and you pass through small hamlets where locals may greet you with warm smiles. Australian Camp is a well-known viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal. Deurali is a peaceful settlement tucked among the hills with rustic guesthouses. Sunset from here paints the snowcapped peaks in golden hues, providing a perfect welcome to the trek.
Elevation: Pokhara (850 m) → Kande (1770 m) → Australian Camp (2270 m) → Deurali (2125 m)
Trek Duration: approx. 4 hours
Drive Time: Pokhara to Kande approx. 1 hour
Today’s trail climbs through dense oak, maple, hemlock, and rhododendron forests, often shrouded in mist in the early morning. You cross small streams and wooden bridges, and occasionally see local shepherds tending their flocks. The trail gradually opens to glimpses of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. Low Camp is nestled in a serene forest clearing, making it ideal for resting while soaking in the peaceful alpine environment. This day allows your body to adjust to higher elevations.
Elevation: Deurali (2125 m) → Low Camp (3150 m)
Trek Duration: approx. 5–6 hours
You ascend steep trails that lead out of the forest and onto Badal Danda, a ridge that rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre. The trail passes through alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and sparse vegetation. This is a highlight day for photographers as the mountain vistas keep changing with light and perspective. High Camp is perched on a ridge, giving a clear view of the sunrise on the Annapurna peaks.
Elevation: Low Camp (3150 m) → Badal Danda → High Camp (3700 m)
Trek Duration: approx. 6 hours
Today is the highlight of the trek, with the trail ascending steeply to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail passes barren rocky slopes, high-altitude meadows, and moraine fields, revealing panoramic views of the Annapurna Sanctuary, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding peaks. The base camp itself is a serene plateau where trekkers can rest, take photos, and absorb the sense of solitude and grandeur of the Himalayas. Returning to High Camp, trekkers enjoy a sunset that illuminates the snowcapped peaks.
Elevation: High Camp (3700 m) → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m) → High Camp (3700 m)
Trek Duration: approx. 5 hours (round trip)
This long descent takes you through changing landscapes—from alpine meadows and mossy forests to subtropical valleys and terraced farmland. You pass small villages where you can interact with local Gurung communities, observe traditional houses, and see people tending their crops. The descent allows trekkers to enjoy different angles of the Annapurna peaks while the environment becomes increasingly lush and vibrant as you reach lower altitudes. Siding Village is a quaint settlement that provides a comfortable overnight stay in a local guesthouse.
Elevation: Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m) → Siding Village (1750 m)
Trek Duration: approx. 8 hours
The final day is a gentle walk through villages, paddy terraces, and bamboo groves, offering opportunities to observe rural life and local culture. After reaching Lumre, a short drive takes you back to Pokhara, where you can relax by Phewa Lake, visit local markets, or enjoy lakeside cafes. The trek concludes with memories of the diverse landscapes, panoramic mountain vistas, and immersive Himalayan culture experienced over the past six days.
Elevation: Siding Village (1750 m) → Kalimati & Ghale villages → Lumre
Trek Duration: approx. 3 hours
Drive Time: 2 hours driving back to Pokhara
Accommodation: Pokhara [not counted in trek nights]
Trekking Gears And Equipments