Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek - 11 Days
About the Trek
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is one of the most beautiful short treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This hidden gem offers breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli without the heavy crowds of Everest or Annapurna Base Camp. The 11-day itinerary combines cultural experiences, peaceful forest trails, ridge walking, and a spectacular viewpoint at 4,500m. The journey starts from Kathmandu, includes a visit to Pokhara city, and then heads into the heart of the Annapurna Mardi Himal Trek route.
This trek is perfect for beginners, families, and experienced trekkers looking for a scenic, affordable, and achievable adventure within two weeks.
Highlights
- Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara – the tourism capital of Nepal
- Peaceful forest walk through rhododendron and oak jungle
- Stunning ridge trail above the clouds
- Close-up panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (6,993m)
- Sunrise from High Camp and Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,500m)
- Authentic Gurung culture and traditional villages
- Less crowded alternative to Annapurna Base Camp
- Ideal moderate-altitude Himalayan adventure
Difficulty Level
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek. It is not technical and does not require prior climbing experience. However, trekkers should be prepared for:
- 5–7 hours of walking daily
- Steep uphill sections
- Maximum altitude around 4,500m
Good physical fitness and basic hiking experience are recommended. Proper acclimatization is included in the itinerary to minimize altitude risks. Compared to other Annapurna region treks, Mardi Himal Base Camp is easier than the Annapurna Circuit but slightly more challenging than Ghorepani Poon Hill.
Itinerary, Distance, and Altitude Breakdown
Day Route Altitude Distance Duration 01 Arrival Kathmandu 1,400m — — 02 Drive to Pokhara 820m 200 km 6–7 hrs 03 Phedi – Deurali 2,010m 8–9 km 4–5 hrs 04 Deurali – Forest Camp 2,550m 6–7 km 4–5 hrs 05 Forest – Low Camp 2,990m 5–6 km 3–4 hrs 06 Low – High Camp 3,580m 6–7 km 4–5 hrs 07 High Camp – Base Camp – Return 4,500m 10–12 km 6–7 hrs 08 High Camp – Siding 1,850m 9–10 km 5–6 hrs 09 Siding – Pokhara 820m 4–5 km + drive 3 hrs 10 Drive to Kathmandu 1,400m 200 km 6–7 hrs 11 Final Departure 1,400m — —Why Choose Overland Trek Nepal
- 100% trip success rate
- Experienced local guides with deep mountain knowledge
- Transparent Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek cost with no hidden charges
- Flexible departure dates for 2026/27
- 24/7 emergency support
- Customized packages (budget to luxury)
- Responsible tourism and local community support
Overland Trek Nepal ensures safety, comfort, and an authentic Himalayan experience from arrival to departure.
Customization Options
The Mardi Himal Trek can be customized as:
- 5–7 days short Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara
- Add Annapurna Base Camp extension
- Private jeep transfer instead of the bus
- Upgrade accommodation in Pokhara
- Add paragliding, boating, or mountain flight
- Luxury lodge upgrade where available
Whether you want a short adventure or a relaxed trekking holiday, we design your perfect Annapurna Mardi Himal Trek.
Alternative Short Annapurna Region Treks
- Tilicho Lake Trek - 9 Days
- Poon Hill Yoga Trek - 9 Days
- Mohare Danda Trek - 8 Days
- Annapurna Circuit Trek - 12 Days
- Australian Base Camp Trek - 7 Days
- Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 7 Days
- Annapurna Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek - 8 Days
- Khopra Lake Trek via Jhinu Danda Hot Spring - 13 Days
Pay
Estimated Trek Cost (Per Person) for 2026/27:
- Budget: USD 799 (Teahouse stay, local guide, public transport, permits, basic meals)
- Standard: USD 999 (3★ hotel in KTM & Pokhara, guide + porter, transport, full-board meals, permits)
- Luxury: USD 1,350+ (Boutique hotels, private jeep, personal porter, premium lodges, full services)
The final cost depends on group size, season, and services required.