8-Day Mardi Himal Trek in Annapurna with Sunrise Upper Viewpoint

8 Days Round trip from Kathmandu Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli
02 Breathtaking sunrise from Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint
03 Scenic trekking through rhododendron and oak forests
04 Peaceful trails with fewer crowds than many popular Annapurna routes
05 Experience the culture and hospitality of traditional Gurung villages
06 Beautiful ridge walks with panoramic Himalayan views
07 Explore diverse landscapes from lush forests to alpine terrain above the tree line
08 Enjoy the charm and lakeside atmosphere of Pokhara

The Mardi Himal Trek is a short and scenic Himalayan adventure in the Annapurna region, offering breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and surrounding peaks. This rewarding trek takes you through rhododendron and oak forests, peaceful mountain trails, alpine landscapes, traditional Gurung villages, and beautiful ridge walks with increasingly impressive panoramas as you gain altitude. A major highlight is the early morning hike to the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint for a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna range. Starting from Kathmandu and traveling via Pokhara, the trek combines adventure, nature, culture, and Himalayan photography with comfortable teahouse accommodation and manageable daily walking distances.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Annapurna

Languages English, Nepali

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Explore the cultural heart of Nepal, known for its ancient temples, vibrant markets, and Himalayan surroundings.
Relax or explore Thamel's trekking shops, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir stores.
Attend a Mardi Himal Trek briefing covering the route, altitude, weather, and safety.
Complete your Mardi Himal trekking gear check and prepare for the next day's adventure.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02

Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Kande/Kalimati, and Trek to Forest Camp

Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, about 25 minutes, with stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) ranges.
Drive for about 3 hours from Pokhara to Kande/Kalimati, passing rural villages and terraced farmland.
Begin the Mardi Himal Trek through peaceful rhododendron forests and scenic mountain trails.
Reach Forest Camp, surrounded by lush forests and a tranquil Himalayan atmosphere.
Approximately 4 hours of trekking.

Day 03

Forest Camp to Low Camp Through Scenic Ridge Trails

After breakfast, continue the Mardi Himal Trek through rhododendron, oak, and moss-covered forests.
Follow a scenic ridge trail with a gradual uphill climb.
Enjoy closer views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Keep an eye out for Himalayan monal, langurs, and other local wildlife.
Arrive at Low Camp, which offers beautiful mountain views and a peaceful Himalayan atmosphere.
Approximately 5-6 hours of trekking.

Day 04

Low Camp to High Camp Above the Tree Line

Continue the Mardi Himal Trek as the landscape changes from dense forest to alpine shrubs.
Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Trek through dramatic open landscapes toward High Camp.
Follow the scenic ridge with spectacular Himalayan views throughout the journey.
As you gain altitude, walk at a steady pace, stay hydrated, and take regular breaks.
Approximately 5-6 hours of trekking.

Day 05

Sunrise Hike to Upper Viewpoint and Descent to Low Camp

Set out early in the morning for a hike to the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint to witness a spectacular Himalayan sunrise.
Climb along a steep and narrow ridge toward the viewpoint.
Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal.
Capture breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna mountain range.
Return to High Camp for breakfast, then continue downhill toward Low Camp.
Descend at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, and allow your body to adjust to the changing altitude.
Approximately 7-8 hours of trekking.

Day 06

Descend to Siding Village and Drive to Pokhara

Descend through lush forests and traditional Gurung villages while enjoying the peaceful mountain scenery.
Follow a quiet and scenic trail that offers an authentic glimpse of rural Nepalese mountain life.
Reach Siding Village, where your vehicle will be waiting.
Drive for approximately 3 hours from Siding Village to Pokhara.
In the evening, relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Lakeside Pokhara.

Day 07

Scenic Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your scenic flight back to Kathmandu.
Enjoy beautiful Himalayan and landscape views during the Pokhara-Kathmandu flight.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu and relax.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 08

Final Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, enjoy some free time depending on your international flight schedule.
Take a short walk around Thamel for last-minute shopping or relax at your hotel.
At the designated time, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure.
We recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled flight.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kathmandu 3 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off
2 nights' hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
1 night's hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
All accommodation in the mountains at simple teahouses
Round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
Transport to the trekking starting point and trekking end point
First-aid kit carried by the Sherpa leader
All government taxes, official charges, and ACAP permit
Experienced, government-licensed guide
Last-night farewell dinner in Kathmandu

What's Not Included

Extra nights at hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if extended
Laundry service and battery charging
For solo travellers, porter if necessary
Rescue, emergency, and travel insurance
Beverages and alcoholic drinks
Personal equipment and personal expenses
Tips for the guide and porter

What to bring

Trekking shoes - comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes with good grip.
Warm clothing - thermal layers, fleece jacket, down jacket, and warm trousers.
Waterproof jacket and trousers - useful for rain, wind, and changing mountain weather.
Trekking pants and T-shirts - lightweight and quick-drying clothing for daily hikes.
Warm accessories - gloves, woolen hat, neck warmer, and warm socks.
Sun protection - sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and a sun hat.
Backpack - a comfortable daypack with a rain cover.
Water bottle - reusable bottle or hydration bladder; water purification tablets are recommended.
Headlamp - carry spare batteries for early morning or low-light walks.
Personal toiletries - toothbrush, toothpaste, tissues, hand sanitizer, and other essentials.
Personal medication - bring regular medicines and a basic first-aid kit.
Power bank - useful where charging facilities are limited.
Trekking poles - recommended for steep uphill and downhill sections.
Documents - passport, permits, travel insurance details, and emergency contact information.
Camera/phone - for capturing the beautiful views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal.
Snacks - energy bars, chocolate, nuts, or other lightweight snacks for the trail.
Small towel and toiletries - quick-dry towel and essential personal-care items.
Cash - carry sufficient Nepalese currency, as card and ATM facilities may not be available in remote areas.

Know before you go

Trek Difficulty: Moderate; a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Best Season: March-May and September-November offer the best trekking conditions.
Altitude: Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint reaches around 4,500 m, so walk slowly and stay hydrated.
Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly; prepare for cold, rain, wind, and possible snow.
Accommodation: Stay in basic teahouses and lodges with simple facilities.
Meals: Dal bhat, noodles, pasta, soups, and other local and international meals are available along the trail.
Drinking Water: Carry a reusable bottle and use filtered or treated water.
Packing: Bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, trekking shoes, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a headlamp.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is recommended.
Connectivity: Mobile networks and electricity can be limited at higher elevations; carry a power bank.
Permits: Carry your passport and required trekking permits throughout the trek.
Local Culture: Respect local customs, traditions, villages, and religious sites.
Responsible Trekking: Avoid littering, minimize plastic waste, and help keep the Himalayan trails clean.
Flexible Schedule: Weather and trail conditions may affect transportation and trekking schedules, so some flexibility is advisable.