Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days
Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days
Date Expired !
Overview
Mardi Himal Trek – Overview
Starting Point: Kathmandu
Ending Point: Kathmandu
Highest Point: Mardi Himal Base Camp
Maximum Elevation: 4,350 m
Trek Accommodation: Tea houses
Kathmandu Hotel: Your choice (not included)
Pokhara Hotel: Comfortable 3★ hotel (included)
Meals on Trek: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation: Tourist Bus / Privet Jeep / Flight
The Mardi Himal Trek is a short yet rewarding Himalayan adventure, ideal for travelers seeking breathtaking mountain scenery within limited time. This hidden gem takes you into the quieter side of the Annapurna region, offering dramatic landscapes, pristine trails, and authentic cultural encounters.Perfect for trekkers with non-extendable holidays, this 8-day journey leads you beneath the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and east of Annapurna Base Camp. Though the Mardi Himal peak rises to 5,587 m, the trek reaches a comfortable high point at Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,350 m)—making it achievable while still adventurous.Officially opened in 2012, the trail remains less crowded and rich in biodiversity. Along the way, you pass through charming villages and meet warm local communities, predominantly Gurung, alongside Brahmin, Chhetri, Tamang, and Thakali cultures. The trek offers a genuine glimpse into Nepal’s mountain lifestyle, traditions, and hospitality.The journey begins in Pokhara with a scenic drive to Phedi, followed by a gradual ascent through stone-paved villages, terraced farmlands, and lush forests of oak, maple, and blooming rhododendron. As you climb higher toward Forest Camp and High Camp, the views become increasingly dramatic. Sunrise and sunset from High Camp are unforgettable highlights.
Schedule Details
Day 01: Drive or Fly to Pokhara
Altitude: 822 m
Drive Duration: 7–9 hours
Distance: 200 km
Overnight: Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel at Lakeside
Your Mardi Himal Trek – 8 Days begins with a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Although the distance is moderate, Nepal’s winding mountain roads make the drive an adventure in itself. For travelers short on time, a short domestic flight is also available.After breakfast, meet your trekking guide and board a comfortable tourist bus for the drive to Pokhara. Leaving the busy capital behind, you travel through beautiful countryside filled with green hills, rivers, forests, and traditional villages.For most of the journey, the road follows the Trishuli River, offering peaceful views along the way. You will stop at a local town for lunch before continuing toward Muglin, the midway point of the drive. From here, the landscape gradually changes into open farmlands and river valleys.As you approach Pokhara, weather permitting, you may catch your first glimpse of the majestic Annapurna Range and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). After approximately half a day of travel, you arrive in the charming lakeside city of Pokhara.Upon arrival, check in to your hotel at Lakeside. The remainder of the day is free at leisure. You may explore the lively streets, enjoy a relaxed walk along Fewa Lake, or simply unwind with views of the surrounding mountains.
An early night is recommended, as your trekking adventure begins the following day
Day 02 :Drive to Phedi and trek to Pothana
Drive to Phedi and trek to PothanaPhedi
Altitude:1130 m above sea levelDrive
Duration:1 to 1.5 hours
Drive Distance:18.7 km
Pothana Altitude:1890 m above sea level
Walking Hours: 3 to 4 hours
Walking Distance:6 km
Overnight atPothana
Accommodation: Tea House
The initial thing you do after waking up is freshening up and visit the Fewa lake. Then returning to the hotel,you have your breakfast and begin the trip towards Phedi.The route follows you through the Baglung Highway and leads you along the bumpy and dusty road. The drive duration is not very long, but you might feel it farmore than normal due to graveled terrains.
Your Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days begin after arriving at Phedi as you walk your way to Pothana. There are several small shops in this small village where the local owners try to sell you stuff.Avoiding them, the trek begins by climbing intimidating stairs all the way up. Continuing the upward walk for about one and half hours, you come across other local shops in the area.You then wander past traditional villages and reach a flat stretch of land from where the view ahead looks awesome. This place looks like a grazing and picnic spot for the local villagers.Soon afterward, you arrive at Dhampus, where you stop for your lunch. Fill your tummy cause the road gets erratic from here onwards. After lunch, you first descend along the beautiful forest trail. Then continue walking up and down the varied terrain viewing beautiful landscapes till Pothana.You check in to your rooms and rest or head out to explore the valley. This village is quite touristy with plenty of accommodation available. Pothana might be at a lower elevation, but it sure gets chilly here. The lush green valley looks amazing from the tea houses.
Day 03 :Trek from Pothana to Forest Camp (2554m)
Forest Camp Altitude:2554 m above sea level
Walking Hours:6 to 7 hours
Walking Distance:7.9 km
Overnight atForest Camp
Accommodation: Tea House
After breakfast, you pack your bags and follow a rocky path out of the village. The trail soon changes from rocky to dirt to a hardly noticeable forest path. There are not many markers in the trails, so stick with your group if you do not want to get lost.You first climb the trails for an hour or so, following theoff-beat path and reach Deurali. This place gives you aclear view of Fewa lake, Pokhara valley, and a couple of magnificent mountains (Annapurna and Dhaulagiri). Then you walk the trails that lead you through the jungle.The destination today is a forest camp, so according toits name, the trail is densely populated with forests. You are surrounded by greenery throughout the day, which is quite an experience.The forests offer birch, rhododendron, oak, hemlock, maple, and more. Also, the tree shades keep you cool and breezy whilst the air is fresh and rich with the organic smell.
After about an hour, the trail begins to get steep, creating a challenge for the trekkers. Continuing the trek, you walk on top of a ridge, then drop halfway andslowly gain altitude back to Forest Camp.Forest camp is a wide-open green area that has few accommodations for stay. After checking in one of the tea houses, you can head out and lie in the grass whileenjoying the surroundings
Day 04 :Forest Camp to High Camp (3550m)
High Camp Altitude:3550 m above sea level
Walking Hours:8 hours
Walking Distance:12.2 km
Overnight atHigh Camp
Accommodation: Tea House
The day starts early today as you head to High Camp from Forest Camp. After breakfast, you continue the Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days through the forested path, but it is a bit firmer than the previous day.The tree line has changed from dense to a bit shorter spaced out trees like mosses, shrubs, and more. Continue walking, and you come across larger areas covered in colorful rhododendrons.
Walking through this magical forest, you emerge to Low Camp, a wide flat land offering a clear view of Machhapuchhre (Mount Fishtail). The mountain looks mesmerizing, becoming the center of attention next tothe forests.Low Camp is also a stop destination for a few trekkers,where you can view the epic sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna. But our rest stop is high Camp, so you head back to the tracks after a hefty lunch.The trails from here are steep, so be cautious. The ground is rocky, plus continues to get steeper with each climb. Moving ahead, the route slowly becomes barren with trees thin out and rocky paths leading towards High Camp.High Camp lies above 3550 m, making it a bit chilly, soyou can head to the fireside area for warmth after checking in. The sunset view is quite spectacular from this point.Sleep early as an exciting day is waiting for you tomorrow
Day 05 :Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4350m)
Mardi Himal Base Camp Altitude:4350 m above sea level
Overall Walking Hours:7 to 8 hours
Overnight atHigh Camp
Accommodation: Tea House
The day starts fast today as you have to set out on an ascent to make a final high climb of Mardi Himal Trek 8 days. You begin the trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp after a healthy breakfast.Heading out on the journey, the impressive mountain view is gradually replaced by the rocky terrains. Walking along the ridge, you take the slow and steady path over an unclear trail.The ascend is not too difficult but not too easy as well while hiking through the unseen path. You need to be careful as there are many death-end paths on this trip.You make your way through a large area filled with boulders and continue climbing in the trails to the base camp. The first to catch your eyes is the magnificent views under the clear blue sky.The place offers you the sight of Annapurna base camp on one side and Machhapuchhre on the other. The way to the base camp makes this 8 Day Mardi Himal Trek truly one of the best.Then, you have your lunch at the base and continue tomake your way back to High Camp. Following the same route to return, you stay the night in High Camp
Day 06 :Trek to Siding Village
Siding Altitude:1750 m
Walking Hours:6 to 7 hours
Walking Distance:8.5 km
Overnight atSiding
Accommodation: Tea House
The trek to Siding from high Camp is quite easy today,and you can take your time to enjoy the beauty beforebeginning the journey. After a delicious breakfast, you retrace your way back to Low Camp.The trails down to Siding are very memorable as you pass several villages and rice terraces. The trip today seems beautiful in many ways due to the pristine ruralfarming areas.Following the routes, you stop at one of the points for lunch and refreshment. Then continuing the walk downhill, make your way through lush green jungles and farmlands to Siding Village.Siding Village is also a starting and ending point for trekkers who are in a hurry due to less time. You can find vehicles that take you back to Pokhara from here as well.
Day 07 :Trek to Saidighatta and drive to Pokhara
Saidighatta Altitude: 1206 m
Walking Hours: 3 to 4 hours
Pokhara Altitude:822 m above sea level
Drive Duration:1 to 1.5 hours
Overnight atPokhara
Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
With adventure and excitement, the Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days is coming to an end. Today you trek down to Saidighatta from Siding after having your final breakfast in this region.Following the trails through rice fields and dense jungles, you make your way downhill. Along the routes, you will pass several traditional villages inhabited by the Gurung community.With this making a steep descent, you reach Saidighatta, another traditionally rich Gurung village. From here, you catch the vehicle back to Pokhara, following the Baglung highway.After arriving at Pokhara, you have the rest of the day off, so you can go boating, sightseeing, or do other
activities available in this city. Pokhara is a chill touristdestination and escapes place for locals, so enjoy yourtime here.
Day 08: Drive or Fly Back to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,400 m
Drive Duration: 7–9 hours Flight Duration: 40 minutes
Distance: 200 km
Overnight: Kathmandu
Accommodation: Three-Star Hotel
After breakfast, depart from Pokhara for Kathmandu by Privet jeep or bus or a short 40-minute domestic flight (optional), arranged by Equator Expeditions. Enjoy the scenic journey back to the capital.Upon arrival, Equator Expeditions will transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, join a farewell Gala Dinner hosted by Equator Expeditions, celebrating the successful completion of your Mardi Himal Trek and sharing memorable moments with the team
Get Enquiry
What's Included
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Guide
- Hotel Rent
- Lunch
- Meals
What's Excluded
- Emergency Costs
- Meals in Kathamndu
- Personal expense
