Nepal · Trekking

10-Day Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu with Annapurna Base Camp Views

10 Days Round trip from Ring Rd Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek one of the most popular off-beaten routes in the shadows of the Annapurna Himalayas
  • 02 Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Lamjung Himal
  • 03 Walk through lush rhododendron forests rich in biodiversity
  • 04 Reach the Upper View Point, also known as Mardi Himal Base Camp
  • 05 Experience village life and Gurung culture in Siding

Join this 10-day Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu, one of the most popular off-beaten trekking routes in the shadows of the Annapurna Himalayas. Savour isolated pathways and gradual ascents through lush forests while unveiling the region's rich biodiversity. The trail leads from Kathmandu to Pokhara and onward from Kande through Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp to the Upper View Point, also known as Mardi Himal Base Camp. It is perfect for travellers looking for isolated trekking trails with panoramic Himalayan views and a glimpse of village life in Siding.

From here, you can see colossal mountains like Annapurna South (7219m), Machhapuchhre (6997m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Lamjung Himal (6983m).

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Annapurna
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Hotel Transfer

The journey begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our company representative will receive you and take you to your hotel. After you freshen up, you can explore some of the Newari heritage.

2
Day 02

Drive to Pokhara via Prithvi Highway

The goal for the day is to reach the beautiful Pokhara Valley. Our drive takes us along the Prithvi Highway, where we can enjoy amazing views of hills, mountains, and the Trishuli River. After arriving in Pokhara, you can go boating on Phewa Lake or visit the Bat Cave. Spend a lovely evening at Lakeside and taste the local delicacies. Overnight in Pokhara.

3
Day 03

Drive to Kande and Trek to Forest Camp

After collecting your necessities and legal documents, we head towards Kande. It sits on the periphery of Pokhara and is beautifully decorated with greenery. We shall begin the trek towards Forest Camp from here. Our trail takes us through lush rhododendron trees and silent forests. After walking for a while, we shall reach Forest Camp. Overnight in Forest Camp.

4
Day 04

Trek Through Ridges to Low Camp

The trail to Low Camp takes us along uphill paths and across many ridges. Low Camp is a small group of teahouses in the middle of the forest. From here, you can see colossal mountains like Annapurna South (7219m), Machhapuchhre (6997m), Hiunchuli (6441m), and Lamjung Himal (6983m). If you want, you can even visit Badal Danda. Overnight in Low Camp.

5
Day 05

Trek to High Camp Through Alpine Terrain

The walk from Low Camp to High Camp is relatively short and not very difficult. We shall walk through the shrubby alpine region along stone trails. Along the way, we can witness Machhapuchhre (6997m) and numerous mountains in the Annapurna range. High Camp is a small pasture after the rocky ascent, comprising a few lodges. Overnight in High Camp.

6
Day 06

Hike to Upper View Point and Return

The trip for the day involves a rather sharp climb above High Camp. The trail is quite steep uphill, so be sure to tread carefully. The Upper View Point is also called Mardi Himal Base Camp. Numerous trekkers and climbers are on the route to conquer Mardi Himal (5553m). After spending some time at the base camp, we shall return to High Camp. Overnight in High Camp.

7
Day 07

Descend to Siding Village

From High Camp, we navigate our way towards Siding Village. We take a different trail from the viewpoint and descend through rhododendron forests. This small village quietly sits amidst the wilderness of the Annapurna region and is mainly inhabited by the Gurung and Tamang people. Learn about the locals' way of life here and create some memories. Overnight in Siding Village.

8
Day 08

Trek from Siding Village to Pokhara

The objective for the day is to reach Pokhara. The trail takes us through forested tracks and deep into paths with sparse human settlements. The return trek offers a final glimpse of the Himalayas in the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges. After walking for about 4 hours, we shall reach the bustling city of Pokhara. In Pokhara, you can spend your evening at Lakeside. Overnight in Pokhara.

9
Day 09

Drive Back to Kathmandu

We shall board a public vehicle from Pokhara and head back to Kathmandu. The drive takes approximately 5 hours and follows the serpentine Prithvi Highway. After arriving in Kathmandu, head back to your hotel. You can also choose to explore the city and enjoy its Newari heritage. Overnight in Kathmandu.

10
Day 10

Departure from Kathmandu

Today is your final day in Nepal, and our representative will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.

Phewa Lake, Mardi Himal Base Camp, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South panoramas, Siding Village rhododendron forests

Where this trip takes you

Phewa Lake, Mardi Himal Base Camp, Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South panoramas, Siding Village rhododendron forests

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Ring Rd 3 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • 3 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing with a private guide and private transportation.
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu transportation.
  • Standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • All necessary paperwork and conservation entry permits.
  • All accommodation in hotels and lodges/tea houses.
  • An experienced government-licensed guide and porters (1 porter for 2 people).
  • Medical supplies (a first aid kit will be available).
  • Farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant.
  • All government taxes.

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Extra accommodation and food charges in Kathmandu
  • Tips and gratuities for the guide, porters, and drivers

What to bring

Equipment list for Mardi Himal Trek

Here is the complete essential list of equipment for the Mardi Himal Trek. The weight of your luggage is limited to up to 9 kg. Therefore, we advise you to carry only essential items. In case you need to carry more than 9 kg, we can arrange porters.

  • Head wear
  • Warm insulated winter hat / woolly hat
  • Sun hat / wide-brimmed hat
  • Scarf
  • Neck gaiter or fleece buff (optional)
  • Neoprene face mask (optional)
  • Balaclava / Bally ski mask / monkey cap (optional)
  • LED headlamp x 2 and spare batteries

Know before you go

  • Please note that you must send all necessary documents, such as passport-size photos, passport copy, travel insurance policy, and arrival and departure flight details within a week after booking.
  • Mardi Himal Trek is a 10-day trek and is a fantastic alternative to the crowded Poonhill trail. It is one of the most popular off-beaten trekking routes in the shadows of the Annapurna Himalayas. Thus, it is perfect for travellers looking for isolated trekking trails.
  • The trail goes from one base camp to the other in a gradual manner while exploring the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • The Mardi Himal Trek is an interesting experience that covers off-beat trails offering sublime views of the Annapurna Himalayas.
  • It combines the serenity of several villages with lush forests and hills.
  • The biodiversity along the trail is also a praiseworthy highlight.
  • Similarly, the Mardi Himal Trek also offers a close-up look into Gurung culture on visits to villages like Siding.
  • The Mardi Himal Trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
  • Another drive from Pokhara leads to the trailhead of the trek at Kande.
  • The actual trek starts here as you head to Low Camp.
  • From there, the trek continues further north towards Forest Camp.
  • Next, you ascend to High Camp.
  • A diverse set of vegetation covers the entire trekking trail.
  • These forests also shelter some wildlife species.
  • Lastly, you trek to Upper View Point, which is also the highest point of the trek.
  • The viewpoint offers great vistas of Mt. Fishtail (6997m), Mardi Himal (5553m), Annapurna (8091m), and Hiunchuli (6441m).
  • On the return trip, you head to Siding Village, which allows you to explore Gurung culture.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Airport Gate, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tour start
Ring Rd, काठमाडौँ 44600, Nepal
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 10 days finish where they began, in Ring Rd.

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