Mardi Himal Trek

Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and beautifully scenic short trek on a high forested ridge east of the Annapurna Sanctuary, climbing to a Base Camp at 4,500m directly beneath the fluted ice walls of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Quieter than the classic Annapurna routes, it passes through rhododendron and oak forest before breaking out onto open high-altitude ridges with sweeping views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and the Fishtail. Graded moderate and easily accessed from Pokhara in 5-8 days, with simple but improving ridge-top lodges, it is an excellent choice for trekkers wanting big views without a long itinerary. Best in spring and autumn.

Highlights

• check_circleMardi Himal High Camp views
• check_circleMachhapuchhre face
• check_circleForest Camp
• check_circleLess-crowded trails
• check_circleClose Annapurna views

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Drive Pokhara to Kande, trek to Forest Camp (2,520m)

   Drive to Kande then climb via Australian Camp and Pothana into deep forest.

   Stay: Teahouse, Forest CampMax alt: 2,520 mWalking: ~5 hMeals: BLD
2. 2

   Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,970m)

   Climb the forested ridge with first Machhapuchhre views.

   Stay: Teahouse, Low CampMax alt: 2,970 mWalking: ~4 hMeals: BLD
3. 3

   Low Camp to High Camp (3,580m)

   Break out of the treeline onto open ridge with panoramic views.

   Stay: Teahouse, High CampMax alt: 3,580 mWalking: ~4 hMeals: BLD
4. 4

   High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and back to Badal Danda

   Dawn ridge climb to Base Camp beneath Mardi Himal, then descend.

   Stay: Teahouse, Badal DandaMax alt: 4,500 mWalking: ~7 hMeals: BLD
5. 5

   Badal Danda to Sidhing, drive to Pokhara

   Descend through forest to Sidhing and drive back to Pokhara.

   Stay: Hotel, PokharaMax alt: 1,700 mWalking: ~5 hMeals: BLD

Teahouses & homestays

Lodging and food along the route. Book ahead in peak season; availability and prices vary.