Nepal · Trekking

9-Day Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek with Kathmandu Heritage and Nagarkot

9 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Kathmandu Valley's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Changu Narayan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square
  • 02 Trek through lush rhododendron, oak, and maple forests on the scenic Mardi Himal trail
  • 03 Take in Himalayan panoramas from Australian Camp, Badal Danda, High Camp, and Nagarkot
  • 04 Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters for close-up views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli
  • 05 Experience traditional Gurung village life in Landruk and authentic Nepalese hospitality in Siding Village

Embark on a 9-day Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek through the tranquil beauty of Nepal's Annapurna region, combining cultural discovery in Kathmandu and Pokhara with a scenic Himalayan trekking adventure. Follow trails through lush rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, and peaceful mountain ridges as you take in panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Reach Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters and enjoy an experience that blends mountain scenery, local culture, and rewarding trekking in one unforgettable journey.

Wake early to witness a magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot
Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Pre-Trek Briefing

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where a representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
  • Attend a pre-trek briefing at the tour office in the afternoon to discuss details, safety guidelines, and preparation for the upcoming journey.

  • Explore the nearby cultural sites or the vibrant streets of Thamel and enjoy your first Nepali dinner.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

2
Day 02

Kathmandu Valley Heritage Tour and Drive to Nagarkot

  • Begin your day with a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Zone filled with history and spirituality.
  • Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Changu Narayan Temple, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

  • In the evening, drive to Nagarkot, a scenic hilltop known for its breathtaking Himalayan views and serene atmosphere.

  • Witness a spectacular sunset over the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest and Langtang.

Overnight in Nagarkot.

3
Day 03

Journey to Pokhara

  • Depart from Nagarkot after breakfast and travel to Pokhara, either by a scenic road journey or a short domestic flight.
  • If you travel by road, enjoy views of terraced hills, rivers, and local villages along the way.

  • Upon arrival, explore Pokhara's lakeside charm, with optional activities such as boating on Phewa Lake or paragliding over the valley.

Overnight in Pokhara.

4
Day 04

Drive to Kande and Trek to Landruk Village

  • Drive from Pokhara to Kande, the starting point of the Mardi Himal trek.
  • Begin trekking through rhododendron forests and reach Australian Camp, which offers splendid views of the Annapurna range.

  • Continue to Pothana and Deurali before gradually descending to the traditional Gurung village of Landruk.

  • Immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the tranquility of this picturesque village.

Overnight in Landruk Village.

5
Day 05

Trek from Landruk to Rest Camp

  • Leave Landruk and trek through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and maple.
  • Pass Forest Camp and continue your ascent surrounded by pristine nature and mountain serenity.

  • Reach Rest Camp, a peaceful stop offering excellent views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

  • Relax at the teahouse and enjoy the quiet mountain atmosphere.

Overnight in Rest Camp.

6
Day 06

Ascent from Rest Camp to High Camp

  • Begin your ascent along a ridge with ever-expanding views of the Himalayas.
  • Pass through Low Camp and Badal Danda, one of the trek's most beautiful viewpoints.

  • Continue trekking above the treeline toward High Camp, surrounded by dramatic snow-capped peaks.

  • Enjoy a warm meal and prepare for the next day's hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Overnight in High Camp.

7
Day 07

Sunrise Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp

  • Wake early to witness a magnificent sunrise over the Himalayas.
  • Begin the rewarding hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp along a grassy ridge with stunning panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

  • Spend time at the base camp, soaking in the serenity and capturing memorable photos.

  • Descend back to High Camp for a restful evening and a hearty dinner.

Overnight in High Camp.

8
Day 08

Descend to Siding Village and Return to Pokhara

  • Descend through lush forests and traditional mountain villages, returning to a warmer climate.
  • Reach Siding Village, where you will experience authentic Nepalese hospitality and local culture.

  • After lunch, drive back to Pokhara and enjoy leisure time in the lakeside area.

  • Celebrate the completion of your trek with your guide and team.

Overnight in Pokhara.

9
Day 09

Return to Kathmandu and Final Departure

  • Travel back to Kathmandu either by road or flight.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the city or shopping for souvenirs.

  • In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with cultural performances.

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 4 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All airport hotel transfers by private vehicle
  • 2-night stay at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
  • 2-night stay at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu by luxurious tourist bus
  • Pokhara - Kande by private tourist vehicle
  • Shiding to Pokhara by public jeep
  • All twin-sharing accommodations during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, tea break, lunch, and dinner) will be served with seasonal fruits during the trek
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) permit
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
  • The farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • All government and local taxes
  • An experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Sherpa porters/support staff (1 support staff for every 2 trekkers), including their salary, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
  • Personalized virtual consultation before finalizing your trek booking
  • Online pre-trip briefing after booking confirmation
  • Free excess luggage storage facilities at our office
  • Down jacket and seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after completion of the trip)
  • Namaste Nepal's duffle bag
  • Namaste Nepal's T-shirt/baseball cap
  • Trekking map
  • Trekking poles (to be returned after completion of the trip)
  • A self-sufficient medical first aid kit containing vital medications
  • Oximeter to check your pulse oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (very useful for checking AMS symptoms)

What's Not Included

  • Nepal visa fee (the lowest fee available is for a 15-day visa costing $30 per person)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess luggage charges
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu/Pokhara (in case of early arrival/return from the mountain, deviating from the scheduled itinerary)
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, personal drinks, battery charging, bottled or boiled water, hot showers, Wi-Fi and/or internet, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters

What to bring

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Under garments
  • Hiking shorts
  • Lightweight cotton long pants
  • Fleece or wool pants (seasonal)
  • Waterproof pants
  • Thin, lightweight inner socks
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks
  • Hiking boots with spare laces
  • Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
  • T-shirts
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket (optional)
  • Waterproof shell jacket (preferably breathable fabric)
  • Down jacket
  • Lightweight gloves
  • Heavyweight gloves
  • Sleeping bag
  • Headlamp
  • Duffle bag
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Regular medicine
  • Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
  • Trekking poles
  • Water bottles
  • Medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Multipurpose soap
  • Deodorant
  • Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  • Female hygiene products
  • Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  • Tissue or toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial hand wash
  • Reading book
  • Trail map or guidebook
  • Journal and pen
  • iPod or music player
  • Pencils and small notebooks
  • Traveling games (Uno, playing cards, dice, etc.)

Know before you go

  • The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is a moderate-level adventure suitable for trekkers with average physical fitness. Walking durations range from 4 to 7 hours per day along forest trails, ridge paths, and stone steps.
  • The route involves gradual ascents with some steep sections, especially between Forest Camp and High Camp.
  • Prior high-altitude trekking experience is not mandatory, but good health, stamina, and endurance for uphill and downhill walking are essential.
  • Preparation should include 4 to 6 weeks of cardio exercises such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming to build stamina.
  • Light strength training and stair climbing are recommended to improve endurance and simulate trekking conditions.
  • The highest elevation reached on the trek is 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp.
  • The itinerary is designed for gradual altitude gain, reducing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
  • Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and trekking at a steady pace help with acclimatization.
  • Guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management, and helicopter evacuation is available during emergencies, weather permitting.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, helicopter evacuation, and medical treatment is mandatory.
  • Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, both arranged by Namaste Nepal Trekking & Research Hub.
  • The trail passes through Gurung, Magar, and Brahmin communities, offering rich cultural encounters.
  • Visitors are advised to respect local customs, dress modestly, and greet locals with

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour start
Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 9 days finish where they began, in Kathmandu 44600.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

USD 783 /person
Book This Tour

When

Travellers

Total