Mardi Himal Trek – 6 Days

For the Mardi Himal Trek, you need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit compulsorily as the entire route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The fee collected through ACAP funds trails maintenance, protects the biodiversity of the area, and supports local communities. The cost of ACAP is NPR 3,000 (USD 25) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 (USD 8) for SAARC citizens.
You can apply for the ACAP permit both online and offline. The online process is simple. Just visit the official National Trust for Nature Conservation website, fill in the online application form, provide the required information, upload a recent photograph, and make the payment online. Or you can also collect it in person from the NTB (Nepal Tourism Board) offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Trekking agencies like us also assist trekkers in getting a permit.
Likewise, there are some important things to know about the ACAP permit. The first thing is that the ACAP permit comes in your name, and you cannot transfer it to others. The second thing is that the permit is valid for a certain trekking duration. If your trip extends beyond the given period, you will need to renew it. Thirdly, you must register at entry points and check the permit at both entry and exit. Fourth, a guide is not mandatory, but hiring one makes your trek safer. Also, remember that permit fees are non-refundable, even if you cancel your trek.
Note: The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card is no longer required for the Mardi Himal Trek.

The trek distance from Pokhara to Mardi Himal Base Camp is about 31 km (19 miles) one way, and the round trip covers around 57 km (35 miles). The trekking route follows this path: Deurali → Forest Camp → Badal Danda → High Camp → Mardi Viewpoint/Base Camp → Back to Badal Danda → Sidhing Village.
To start the trek, you first need to drive from Pokhara to Deurali, which is about 23 km. At the end of the trek, you’ll return from Sidhing Village to Pokhara, which is around 35–40 km. In total, including both trekking and driving, you will cover about 95–100 km. Although the distance is shorter compared to longer treks like Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek, the trail involves a big altitude gain, from around 1,500 m at Deurali to 4,500 m at Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Pokhara, the capital city of tourism, is the starting point for trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal, including the Mardi Himal Trek. The city serves as the gateway to Annapurna and is Nepal’s most popular tourist destination. The town is known for its famous lakes, including Phewa, Begnas, and Rupa. The Annapurna mountain range and Mount Macchapuchhre surround Pokhara city.
Besides trekking, Pokhara is also popular for adventure activities like paragliding, zip-lining, ultralight flights, and short hikes. Tourists often explore attractions like Sarangkot, David’s Fall, Mahendra Cave, Phewa Lake, and the World Peace Pagoda before or after their trek.

The 6 days Mardi Himal Trek starts with a drive from Pokhara to Kande and then to Deurali, where trekking starts. From Deurali, you will continue on foot through forests, ridges, and alpine terrain until you reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. After reaching the base camp and experiencing the majestic mountain views, the return journey follows a different path. Instead of going back the same way, you descend to Siddhing Village, a traditional Gurung settlement. From Siddhing, you take a drive back to Pokhara, where the trek concludes after about a week of adventure.

Take a look at the table below to know about the route and transportation options for the Mardi Himal Trek:

Extra: Before starting this trek, many trekkers first arrive in Pokhara from Kathmandu, either by tourist bus, private vehicle, or a short 25-minute flight.

The standard route that starts from Kande is the most popular route for the Mardi Himal Trek. However, the itinerary can be customized depending on the trekker’s time, fitness, and trekking goals. This means trekkers also have the option to shorten, extend, or connect the trek with other trails like Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) or Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Below are the four main route variations:

1. Standard Route (Kande → Sidhing)

The Kande to Sidhing route is the common route to trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp. It is perfect for first-time trekkers. The journey starts with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, and on the first day, trekkers either walk to Deurali or Forest Camp. Then the trail passes through Badal Danda, High Camp, and then reaches Mardi Himal Base Camp. The return journey takes place at Sidhing. From Sidhing, you can take a jeep directly to Pokhara. The whole trek covers 42 km, with 5-7 hours of walking each day.

• Distance: 42 km
• Duration: 5-6 days
• Drive: Pokhara → Kande (1 hour), Sidhing → Pokhara (2 hours)
• Pros: Well-marked trail, Moderate difficulty, good teahouse support
• Cons: Can be slightly crowded in peak season

2. Connection Route (Ghandruk/Kyumi → Sidhing)

Trekkers who want to extend their trek after finishing the Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill Trek often choose this option. You can start the extension either from Ghandruk or Kyumi. After leaving the Annapurna Base Camp route, the trail to Mardi Himal connects at Forest Camp, skipping the lower sections (Kande, Deurali). From there, you’ll follow the same path as the standard route until the end of the trek. If you start from Ghandruk, the trek will be 35 km long. If you start from Kyumi, it will be 31 km in total. The trek ends at Sidhing.

• Distance: Ghandruk (35 km) / Kyumi (31 km) to Sidhing
• Duration: 4–5 days
• Drive: Sidhing → Pokhara (2 hours)
• Pros: Shorter trek, saves time, still offers Mardi Himal Base Camp experience, can combine with ABC/Poon Hill Trek
• Cons: Limited road access, requires a jeep return from Sidhing

3. Short Route (Landruk → Sidhing)

It is the fastest option to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek begins at Landruk and goes directly to Forest Camp, High Camp, and Base Camp. The trek ends at Sidhing village, where you will need to hire a jeep to go to Pokhara. It is the best choice if you are short on time but still want to do the trek. However, keep in mind that this is a high-altitude trek, so rushing your schedule isn’t a good idea.

• Distance: 28 km
• Duration: 3–4 days
• Drive: Sidhing → Pokhara (2 hours)
• Pros: Best for those with limited time, quick access to Base Camp
• Cons: High-altitude trekking in a short duration increases the risk of altitude sickness, requires a jeep ride from Sidhing back to Pokhara (rough road)

4. Long Route (Ghandruk → Kande)

This is the extended trek for those who want to explore more villages and avoid the rough Sidhing road. It can also be combined with ABC or Poon Hill. The trek starts at Ghandruk. From here, the trail descends to Kyumi and Landruk, followed by a steep ascent towards Forest Camp. From Forest Camp, the trek continues through dense rhododendron and oak forests as you pass Low Camp, Middle Camp, and High Camp, finally reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp.

• Distance: 52 km
• Duration: 6–7 days
• Drive: None
• Pros: Scenic, less crowded, avoids rough Sidhing road, good acclimatization due to gradual ascent
• Cons: Requires extra trekking days, slightly physically demanding than the standard route

Mardi Himal Trails offers twin-sharing accommodation in a tented camp and breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. The trekking trails are filled with hotels, lodges, and tea houses. However, during the peak season, these accommodation facilities may be overcrowded. Generally, you will sleep in tea houses at higher altitudes, which provide a single room with twin beds. So, normally, you must share your room and bathroom with other trekkers.

Regarding food, you will have your meals three times per day during your trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. The tea houses serve menus like Tea, Coffee, Bread, Chapati, Soups, and Cornflakes for breakfast. Local breakfast food items like Apple Custard and Banana Pickles are popular among local and foreign travelers.

For lunch and dinner, the staple dish is local Nepali cuisine: Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari, which are lentils, rice, and vegetable curry. Some tea houses also offer Western menu items, such as pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, dumplings, thukpa, spaghetti, and macaroni.

Whether hiring a guide and porter for the Mardi Himal trek depends on one’s preference. Yet, hiring them can be helpful as they provide support at every step. The trail to Mardi Himal is well-established; thus, if you are experienced in trekking, you don’t need to hire a guide. Also, if you are budget-conscious, you can trek independently. Moreover, you don’t need a porter if you’re carrying light gear.

Furthermore, if you’re a first-time trekker, hiring a guide can greatly enhance your journey as they take you to the right path and provide safety throughout the trek. Hiring a porter can be helpful if you carry heavy loads, as they have all your backpacks and let you walk freely. Hiring a guide costs around USD 25 to 30 per day and USD 20 to 25 per day for a porter.

During the short Mardi Himal Trek, you can expect to gain trekking experience and see stunning views of mountain peaks like Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). During the 4 days trekking, you will walk through dense rhododendron forests, open meadows, and high-altitude trails. You’ll also pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Deurali, Badal Danda, and Sidhing, where you can experience warm hospitality, taste local food, and get a glimpse of rural mountain life. Likewise, you will stay in simple tea houses that are basic but cozy enough to rest after a long day of walking.

Moreover, the trek to Mardi Himal is considered moderate in difficulty. So, if you have a reasonable fitness level, you can go for this trek. Even beginners can consider this trek. Also, the altitude is not too extreme (4,500 m), so it’s safer than other long treks. Another big advantage is that the trail is less crowded. This gives you a quiet and peaceful trekking experience away from busier trekking routes in the Annapurna region, like Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.

Even after being the hidden gem, the trek to Mardi Himal is gaining popularity day by day. Here are a few reasons why the Mardi Himal trek is famous:

Mountain views: The trek to Mardi Himal is known for offering stunning mountain views throughout its journey. The panorama of Mount Annapurna (8091m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Mardi Himal (5587m), and Dhaulagiri (8167m) are eye-appealing throughout the trek.

Short Trek: The Mardi Himal trek route is one of the shortest trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, making it an ideal choice for those who have less time but still prefer to experience the majesty of the Himalayas. Thus, the trek is becoming famous among time-bound trekkers.

Most accessible: One of the most accessible trekking routes in Nepal is Mardi Himal, attracting many trekkers yearly. The trek starts with a drive to Deurali and is completed within 6 days through the well-marked trail of the Annapurna area.

Less Difficulty: The Mardi Himal trek is one of the moderately tricky treks, making it accessible for trekkers with all age groups and fitness levels.

Less crowd: The smaller crowd of the Mardi Himal makes it a famous trekking destination for those preferring a tranquil odyssey.

One of the major highlights of the Mardi Himal is the panorama of Mount Macchapuchhre, translated as Mount Fishtail in English. Located at the impressive elevation of 6,993 m (22,943 ft), the mountain is named after the fish-tail-like shape of its twin summits. The trek along the Mardi takes you closer to the sight of the peak. One of the unique aspects of Mt. Macchapucchre is that it has never been summited due to religious significance, as Gurung communities consider the peak an abode of Lord Shiva.

Many companies provide different types of offers and packages for Mardi Himal Trek:

However, our trekking company, Nepal Alternative Treks, provides more services that make it different from other companies.

Reliable Travel Agency

Nepal Alternative Treks is a reputable travel agency with many years of experience and a proven track record. Our clients choose us for the first time and always return as they know they are in the right hands.

Your Curated Itinerary

We at Nepal Alternative Treks are all ears for your interest. We have a pre-determined itinerary for all the treks, such as the 6-Day Mardi Himal Trek, which you can select and move in immediately or curate your own. You can add or remove the days for the itinerary that suit you best and is ideal for your budget.

Safety First

Safety first nature makes our trekking agency special and different from others. Our itineraries and guides are properly curated, highly trained, and experienced. They also have a broad knowledge of Mardi Himal Treks as they have trekked the region for many years. You will be getting all the help, guidance, and instructions throughout your trek

Choosing a reliable trekking agency is crucial to securely booking the Mardi Himal Trek. Choosing a reliable one allows safety and provides top-notch service. For a hassle-free booking procedure, select Alternative Nepal Trek. We offer a trusted and secure process for handling all bookings professionally. Our team ensures your safe journey as we have experienced teams. Moreover, we offer 24/7 service to assist you through the Vogaya. Contact us via email or phone to learn more about the trek and booking procedure.

Clothing

• Base layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.
• Trekking Shirts: Lightweight, breathable shirts.
• Trekking Pants: Quick-drying and durable.
• Fleece Jacket: For warmth during colder parts of the trek.
• Down Jacket: Lightweight and warm for high altitudes and evenings.
• Waterproof Jacket & Pants: To protect against rain and wind.
• Trekking Socks: Comfortable, moisture-wicking
• Gloves: Insulated and waterproof.
• Hat & Cap: Warm hat for cold and sun cap for daytime.

Footwear

Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in.
Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for the evenings.

Accessories

• Backpack: 30-40 liters with a rain cover.
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celcius.
• Trekking Poles: For stability on rough terrain.
• Headlamp: This has extra batteries for early starts or evening use.
• Water Bottle/Bladder: At least 2 liters capacity.
• Sunglasses: UV protection for the strong mountain sun.
• Sunblock & Lip Balm: High SPF to protect from sunburn.

Miscellaneous

• First Aid Kit: Basic supplies, including blister care.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits for quick energy.
• Map/Guidebook: Helpful for navigation, though trails are well-marked.
• Camera/Phone: To capture the stunning views with a power bank.

Gears required for the trek vary upon destination and season. A comprehensive list of gear for all activities is listed on our dedicated page of Trekking Gear List

The Mardi Himal Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are being compared because both treks lie within the Annapurna region of Nepal. Also, many trekkers even choose to do both treks together. Usually, trekkers finish the ABC trek first and then extend their journey to Mardi Himal Base Camp. They join the Mardi Himal trekking trail through Ghandruk and connect directly to Forest Camp, instead of going all the way back down to Kande or Deurali.

Now, let’s take a look at the differences between the Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Mardi Himal trek

Route

Mardi Himal Trek: The Mardi Himal Trek lies in a remote, isolated settlement with less crowded routes. The trail leads you to the stunning ridge, the peak of Mardi Himal, where you will see panoramic views of the stunning mountains. Along the way, trekkers enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and the surrounding peaks

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek route takes you through different terrain to the destination. You will pass through dense forests, terraced valleys, and freezing glaciers, ending at the famous Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks.

Terrain

Mardi Himal Trek: The terrain is quite moderate. The path is well-maintained but becomes steep near High Camp and Base Camp. Local people have also worked hard to maintain the terrain. However, the route may get slippery if you plan to trek in the monsoon.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: ABC Trek’s terrains are more challenging to scale. It involves longer climbs, higher altitudes, rugged paths, steep stone staircases, and snow-covered sections, making it slightly tougher than Mardi Himal.

Duration

Mardi Himal Trek: The Mardi Himal trek is shorter, usually taking 4–6 days.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is longer, generally 10–14 days.

Difficulty Level & Acclimatization

Mardi Himal Trek: The Mardi Himal Base Camp altitude (4,500 m) is more than the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m). Hence, reaching this elevation can become more intense for beginners due to its shorter duration and less time for acclimatization.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Although the ABC trek doesn’t have a dedicated day separated as an acclimatization day, the planned itinerary itself allows for gradual ascent, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. This makes ABC easier for beginners in terms of gradual ascent.

Scenery & Experience

Both treks offer breathtaking Himalayan views, rhododendron forests, and cultural encounters with Gurung and Magar villages. Mardi Himal feels more remote and peaceful, while ABC is more popular and allows trekkers to experience the iconic Annapurna Sanctuary and a wider variety of landscapes.

Here’s the comparison table:

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, and Khopra Hill Trek/ Khopra Danda Trek are all part of the Annapurna region. However, each offers a unique experience. The Poon Hill Trek is famous for its easy trails and stunning sunrise. The Mardi Himal trek is quieter and provides closer views of the Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Likewise, the Khopra Hill is more remote with the bonus of reaching the sacred Khayer Lake.

Here’s a clear side-by-side comparison table for Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek vs. Mardi Himal Trek vs. Khopra Hill Trek: