Are you thinking about doing fascinating adventure here in Nepal and introducing yourself to the land of the Himalayas this year 2025 and 2026, but might be stepping back thinking that long hikes and challenging terrains aren't your forte?
WELL! To your rescue, Destination Himalaya Treks offers this Mardi Himal Trekking that provides you with a first-hand experience of mini mountaineering and lets you immerse in the forested trails rich in Himalayan flora and fauna, varied landscapes, and shows you the vibrant culture of Tibetans where more than 10 iconic mountains will accompany you in every stride!
Mardi Himal Trek Overview:
Mardi Himal is one of the easy and short treks that lies within the Annapurna region, opening the gate to every enthusiastic hiker across the globe. This Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal takes you on a roller coaster ride from lush rolling green hills to dense forest, from blooming vibrant flowers to varied landscapes, and finally to the highest altitude of Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4500 meters with a rich tapestry of the culture of Gurung and Magar in every stride.
Way back in 2012 AD, the Mardi Himal Trekking Trail used to be an underrated, lesser-known, and less crowded trek in Nepal, however, since it has connected the route of the iconic Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and the newly introduced Khopra Ridge Trek it has gained many visitors every year crossing over 1,00,000 wanderers. Many people prefer to do the Mardi Trek amongst all other treks in the Annapurna region as it is budget-friendly, safe, and doesn’t demand any prior experience at all.
This Mardi Himal Trek itinerary begins with a short flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara showing the gradual transition of greenery hills slowly changing into the views of snowy frosty peaks. Then after, we’ll take a jeep drive towards Dhampus that leads us to an uphill walk to the famous Australian Camp from where the first glimpse of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Range can be seen, an impeccable way to begin our journey.
Along the Mardi Himal Trekking Route, we’ll navigate through several notable villages such as Dhampus, Pothana, and Pitam Deurali, meandering by the “Annapurna Conservation Area”, right from the beginning. YES! The home of several wildlife where we can witness the langur monkeys playing back and forth, musk deers, and even an elusive Red Panda. BIRD WATCHERS! Pay attention while walking by the forested trails, as en route, we get to catch a glimpse of Himalayan wild birds such as Himalayan Monal (Danfe), and Tibetan Snowcock, which makes the trek filled with chirping sounds of soothing birds.
From an ascend to Forest Camp, we’ll finally cover the Mardi Himal Trail, settling in iconic stopping points such as Low Camp (Rest Camp), Badal Danda, and High Camp and ascending to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m) on the following days where the terrains slowly turn from blooming rhododendron, pine, and orchid with greenery surrounding to highly towering landscapes and alpine meadows showing the six distinct climatic zones of Annapurna region.
Even though this Mardi Himal Trekking, reaches such a high altitude, it passes by the well-maintained paths accompanied by several snowcapped peaks such as Annapurna II, Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli, and stretches to the panorama views of Mt. Macchapuchare (Fishtail) blending the easy trails with best mountain views and rich cultures of Gurung and Magar communities making every step here one hundred worth it.
Note: This trek begins and ends from and to Kathmandu, however, if you are already in Pokhara, then you can opt for our 5-day Mardi Himal Trek that starts from Pokhara directly.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Trekking
- Walk along the Annapurna Conservation Area right from the start, witnessing Himalayan flora and fauna
- Reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 meters) and feel a sense of accomplishment
- Trail through popular villages exploring the Gurung and Magar communities
- Swing at the "Man-Made Wood Swinging" at Badal Danda and Forest Camp
- Catch the marvelous transition from lush green valley to alpine meadows during Kathmandu-Pokhara (flight)
- Uphill walk to the famous Annapurna Camp and Low Camp
- Astonishing vista of Machhapuchre from Mardi High Camp
What makes the Mardi Himal Trek worth it for 2025 and 2026?
There is no doubt that Mardi Trek has been gaining popularity for many years among youths, families, beginners, and pro-hikers since its initiation, which was done just a few years back, after all, it lies within the Annapurna region, from where other iconic treks in Nepal get connected. On top of that, it lets you walk along the water streams, rivers, and suspension bridges, by exploring the lifestyle of locals with the accompany of Himalayan flora and fauna in each stride.
However, you might have doubts and wonder whether this Mardi Himal Trek is worth undertaking or not. To clear your dilemma, these are the major things that you'll be exploring while embarking on this trek to Mardi that make your trip a truly fascinating journey:
Annapurna Conservation Area- Nature Sanctuary
The Annapurna region stands out because it holds the Annapurna Conservation Area which established itself in 1992 as Nepal's first and biggest conservation area. It covers 7692 square km in which many wildlife and vegetation sustain so we can observe its unique biodiversity as we travel through it. Our Mardi Himal Trek begins navigating through this protected area right from the start, from rhododendron and oak forests to the alpine meadows, we might see Himalayan Thar, musk deer, langur monkey, red panda, Himalaya black bear, Danphe, eagles, sunbirds, and many more along the route.
Can you believe that it is home to over 1,200 plant species, 105 mammal species, 39 reptile species, 22 amphibians, and 478 bird species? YES! we'll be traversing by such rich Himalayan flora and fauna for a straight 7 days making our trek to Mardi, a special journey.
Diverse cultural encounters in every stride
The Mardi Himal Trekking route takes us through many Gurung and Magar villages with unique local customs. Staying at the local teahouses and observing the traditional cooking methods, customs, and family life of the locals truly connects us to the Himalayan lifestyle of the locals.
Besides, sometimes we might be gifted with traditional dance and music performances which can be perfect to end our day with, right? Depending on the time we go, we might get to experience local festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Lhosar, and any more that will enrich our cultural knowledge.
Dhampus
The base point for the Mardi Himal Trek is Dhampus village, which delivers vistas of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and the Annapurna mountain range. The high ridge makes it a viewing point that looks over the Pokhara Valley. It is home to the Gurung people, so we can experience their local customs and hospitality as we pass through.
We will be surprised to find the historical Dhampus Monastery dating from 1837 which preserves a collection of precious Buddhist manuscripts. The development in Dhampus has carefully included modern comforts in teahouses alongside traditional stone buildings and agricultural terraces that add charm to our 9 days of Mardi Himal Trekking.
Badal Danda
Badal Danda stands as a magical attraction during the Mardi Himal Trekking, providing spectacular views of the Annapurna range together with Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) and other surrounding peaks. Our trail to Badal Danda leads us across alpine meadows and forests before a clearing covered in clouds. And the best part is? It feels like we are walking above the clouds since it is covered in clouds and mist most of the time. Wouldn't you agree that it is the perfect place to enjoy breathtaking views of diverse landscapes and snow-capped mountains? The peaceful and mystical nature of Badal Danda is truly a highlight of our Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek.
Mardi Himal Forest Camp
The Mardi Himal Trek takes us to Forest Camp, which locals call Kokar, with peaceful surroundings. The camp sits between dense woodland that includes rhododendron trees and oak forests, a perfect stop for enjoying nature! We can hear birds chirping and even spot monkeys and colorful pheasants playing in the woods. A small playground for volleyball and football creates a joyful atmosphere when we catch the first glimpse of Mardi Himal alongside several snowy mountain peaks.
Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 meters)
Early morning trekking to Mardi Himal Base Camp leads to witness one of the trek's most beautiful moments which reveals spectacular Himalayan mountain views alongside other Annapurna region landscapes. Prayer flags gently dance through the air as we reach the top, welcoming us to the stunning views.
From this viewpoint, the Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre peaks stand just before us so close that we can almost touch them. The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges can be seen with stunning views that we can appreciate in the region.
Views during the trek to Mardi Himal
Mardi Trek offers trekkers an enchanting experience to observe the Annapurna region's multiple landscapes and spectacular natural wonders. From the beginning, we traverse picturesque green hills, farms, and forests of bamboo towards the Magar and Gurung traditional villages at Dhampus. Moving ahead allows us to observe the valleys below us while passing through dense rhododendrons and oak forests.
From increasing elevation, one can gradually witness that the Annapurna Mountains, Fishtail Peak, and Mardi Himal display more stunning and clear views. Along our entire route, we experience magnificent mountain views because snow peaks reflect sunlight brilliantly in front of our eyes. Not to forget, reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp reveals a landscape that feels straight out of a postcard while we stand in its center.
Panoramic Mountain Views from the Mardi Himal View Point
After we reach the Mardi Himal viewpoint, we can see the most stunning mountain views clearly, as the Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal itself seem massive and so close that we feel like we can touch them. YES! This is indeed a surreal experience we will never forget. Among the snowy peaks of the Annapurna Range, Annapurna I, II, III, and Annapurna South stand with Dhaulagiri massifs Dhaulagiri I, II, and Tukuche Peak (6920 m.), Hiunchuli and Lamjung Himal (6934 m) glow like golden jewels during sunrise. The remarkable view provides a deep sense of scale and perspective that regularly turns into a life-changing experience for anyone making our trek to Mardi Himal. You can check our blog entitled: Reasons to trek Mardi Himal, which shows you 10 fruitful insights that you get to encounter during this odyssey.
Combine Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal Trek itinerary (If you have extra time)
As both of the famous treks falls under the Annapurna region, you can create an amazing journey by merging the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek with the Mardi Himal Trek despite your restricted timeframe. For travelers seeking panoramic Poon Hill views combined with Mardi Himal Base Camp remote charm, there is this single amazing trek, our Mardi Himal Trekking via Poon Hill within just 10 days.
Starting from Ghorepani Poon Hill you will walk through Ulleri and Ghorepani after crossing colorful rhododendron forests and terraced fields. The Poon Hill Viewpoint shows you remarkable sights of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks as they break through the night shadows. When you finish the Poon Hill trek, you can start the Mardi Trekking by hiking to Tokla village before continuing through Forest Camp.
This single journey allows you to experience the vibrant cultural sights and famous Poon Hill sunrise combined with the peaceful landscapes of Mardi Himal. This route delivers diverse experiences within a limited timeframe, perfect for anyone looking to explore both adventures in a combined package.
If you are looking to see the Himalayas without enduring a lengthy challenging route, you should embark on the Poon Hill trek. You can combine both and do our Ghorepani Poon Hill with the Mardi Himal Trek itinerary.
Mardi Himal Trekking cost for 2025 and 2026
This Mardi Himal Trek costs start from USD 695 to USD 855, covering all the requirements for the expedition, from basic logistics such as meals, accommodations, and transportation to permit fees, an experienced guide, and all his expenses as well. The pricing simply relies on many number of pax your group holds, for instance, if your group comprises more than 6 pax, then it costs you USD 760, the higher the hikers, the lower the price gets, and vice versa. Nonetheless, our standard price is USD 855 for an elusive private expedition. Also, take note that we offer 5% off to families who are hiking with kids, ensuring that y'all enjoy the best mountain expedition here in Nepal.
Here are the costs depending on the number. of hikers for the Mardi Trek in 2025 and 2026:
| No. of hikers | Standard Price |
| 1 | USD 855 |
| 2-3 | USD 790 |
| 4-6 | USD 760 |
| 7-10 | USD 735 |
| 11-16 | USD 695 |
Why choose Destination Himalaya Treks for the Mardi Trek?
With an experience of serving more than hundreds of hikers every year, Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition has been operating in Nepal for 15+ years, in every corner of each region that exists here in the land of the Himalayas. Our DHT Team carries great expertise in crafting your packages in the best way possible, ensuring that you get to cover each highlighted spot of the trekking trail via the safest route, just like this Mardi Himal Trek itinerary is crafted carefully, ensuring great acclimatization days in between, so you get to adopt the rising elevation gradually.
Besides, our trekking guides are highly experienced, licensed, and speak English fluently, with medically equipped, ensuring that you are safe along the trail and also get a great commentary by these amazing, good-hearted helpers. Apart from that, we firmly believe that there must be transparency between you and us (service providers), which is why we do not have any hidden charges and are genuinely affordable. In fact, to make your trek to Mardi Himal even more fruitful, we offer several additional benefits:
- One day free staycation at our property “Hotel Bihani” if you are thinking of extending your stay in Kathmandu.
- Free UNESCO World Heritage Sightseeing Tour that includes Patan and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- 5% discount for family trips of over 5 members.
- Safe and secure payment
- Complimentary welcome and Farewell Dinner at the Nepalese Fine Dining restaurant with a cultural performance.
- Detailed trip briefing upon arrival before the trip
- Personal adventure facility as per preference, budget, and time
- Excess luggage storage at our office without any cost.
- First Aid Kits with Oximeter and Water Purification Tablets
- Destination Himalaya Cap, T-shirt, Trip Map, Duffle Bag, Jacket, and Sleeping Bags (upon request)
