Mardi Himal Trek Guide – Everything You Need About Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek Guide is your complete resource for planning a short, scenic, and peaceful trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This guide tells you everything you need to know. You will learn about the trekking routes, how difficult the trek is, and the best time to go. It also explains what to pack, where you can stay, what food you can eat, and how much things may cost. You will even get tips on how to travel in a way that is good for nature. With this guide, you can prepare for a safe and unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.

The Mardi Himal Trek is beautiful and easy. You can see amazing mountains, small friendly villages, and colorful rhododendron forests. It is a good choice for beginners or anyone who wants a short and enjoyable trekking experience.

During the trek, you can stay in warm and cozy teahouses and eat tasty local food. You will also see stunning sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountains. You can trek alone or join a guided trip with a trusted company like Responsible Treks. This guide will help you get ready for a safe, eco-friendly, and unforgettable adventure.

​Why Trek to Mardi Himal?

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek has gained popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. The Mardi Himal Trek is short and not too hard, but it still gives you amazing mountain views. Many people only see views like this on long and difficult treks. The trek starts close to Pokhara, the trail goes along quiet hills, through green forests, and toward the beautiful Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South mountains.

One great thing about this trek is that it is not very crowded. Other treks in the Annapurna region can be very busy, but Mardi Himal still feels quiet and peaceful. This makes it a good choice for people who want adventure, but also want a calm and comfortable experience. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy cozy teahouse stays, local cuisine, and peaceful mountain landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, this trek promises a memorable and rewarding Himalayan journey.

​Where Exactly Is Mardi Himal?

Mardi Himal is on the eastern side of the big Annapurna mountains. It is a peaceful and beautiful trekking area. The trek starts near Pokhara and slowly goes up through small villages, farm fields, and thick rhododendron forests. As you go higher, you will walk on open hill ridges and see wide views of the Himalayas, including the famous Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna mountains.

This area also has other well-known treks, like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit trek, Poon Hill Trek, and Khopra Ridge Trek. Each trek shows different and special views of nature.

If you want a trek in Nepal that is not very high but still gives amazing mountain views, the Mardi Himal Trek is a very good choice. It’s ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a manageable trek with breathtaking Himalayan vistas.

Why Choose the Mardi Himal Trek?

Here’s why trekkers love this route:

• Perfect for Beginners – The trail is short, clearly marked, and manageable for anyone with basic fitness, making it an ideal Mardi Himal Trek for Beginners.
• Close to Pokhara – The trek begins just 1–1.5 hours from Pokhara, so there’s no long travel required before you start your adventure.
• Stunning Snow Views – During winter, the snow season transforms the ridges into magical white landscapes, offering breathtaking scenery (safe to trek with proper gear).
• Less Crowded – Compared to the Annapurna Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal remains peaceful and intimate.
• Budget-Friendly – Its shorter duration keeps costs low, with affordable teahouses and readily available accommodations along the route.
• Amazing Mountain Views – Trekkers get some of the best face-to-face views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.​

Altitude Chart

Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal

• Spring (March–May): This is one of the most popular times to trek. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors along the trail. Days are warm, skies are usually clear, and visibility of the mountains is excellent. Spring is also the best season for photography, capturing both flowers and snow-capped peaks.
• Autumn (September–November): Autumn is another ideal trekking season. The weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the mountain views are crisp and stunning. It’s also the most popular time for trekkers, so expect more fellow adventurers on the trail.
• Winter (December–February): This is the snow season in Mardi Himal. The mountains and trails are covered with snow, and there are fewer trekkers, so it feels quiet. But mornings and nights are very cold. You must wear warm clothes. Sometimes you may need special shoes like microspikes or crampons to walk safely on icy paths.
• Summer/Monsoon (June–August): This season brings a lot of rain. The trail can be muddy, slippery, and hard to see because of clouds and fog. It is not a good time for beginners or casual trekkers. Only experienced trekkers should try it, and they must be very careful.

Difficulty Level: Is Mardi Himal Trek Good for Beginners?

• The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the best trekking options near Pokhara, especially for first-time trekkers. Its difficulty is considered moderate, meaning you don’t need any prior trekking experience — just basic fitness and the ability to walk 5–6 hours a day.
• Key Challenges: Most of the trail is easy to walk, but some parts need extra care. There are a few steep uphill sections, some narrow paths on ridges, and an early morning climb to reach Base Camp.
• Who Is It Good For: This trek is a great choice for first-time trekkers, people who have only a few days, families, groups of friends, and solo travelers. You can stay in warm and comfortable teahouses along the way. With beautiful mountain views, simple walking paths, and friendly places to stay, the Mardi Himal Trek is a fun and rewarding adventure without too much difficulty.

Accommodation Guide: Mardi Himal Trek Tea Houses

You will find simple, clean, friendly tea houses throughout the trail.

What to Expect:

• Twin-sharing rooms
• Shared bathroom (attached rooms available lower down)
• Blankets (bring a sleeping bag in winter)
• Dining hall with a fireplace
• Charging available (small fee)
• Limited WiFi

Price Range:

• Rooms: NPR 600–1,000 per night
• Meals: NPR 450–700 per dish

Tea houses on this route follow eco-friendly principles, which support the concept of the Mardi Himal eco trek.

Meals & Food on the Mardi Himal Trek

Food is basic, comforting, and freshly made.

Common Dishes:

• Dal Bhat (best energy food!)
• Fried rice / noodles
• Pasta & soups
• Omelets, pancakes
• Potato dishes
• Tibetan bread
• Tea, coffee, hot lemon
• Food prices increase slightly at higher altitudes due to transport challenges.

Permits Required for Mardi Himal Trek:

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System):

• Helps authorities track trekkers for safety and emergency purposes.
• Mandatory for all trekkers in the Annapurna region.

ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit):

• Supports conservation of the Annapurna region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
• Required to enter and trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Where to Obtain:

• Both permits can be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu before starting your trek.
• Trekking agencies like Responsible Treks can assist with the application to make it hassle-free.

Important Note:

• Always carry your permits while trekking, as they are checked along the trail for safety and environmental compliance.

How to Reach the Starting Point

Starting points mark the beginning of the gradual climb toward the Annapurna foothills, and choosing either depends on your preference and schedule.

Transportation Options:

• Local Bus: A budget-friendly option, local buses run regularly from Pokhara to Kande or Phedi. While inexpensive, they can be crowded and slightly slower, but they offer a truly local experience.

• Private Jeep or Taxi: For a more comfortable and convenient journey, you can hire a private jeep or taxi. This is the preferred choice for many trekkers as it saves time and ensures a smoother ride to the trailhead.

After completing the trek, the return journey is usually arranged from Siding Village by jeep or taxi back to Pokhara, making the transportation simple and flexible for trekkers.
​

Cost of Mardi Himal Trek

Here’s an average cost breakdown:

✔ Guided Trek (with Responsible Treks): NPR 35,000–55,000 per person

Includes:

• Licensed guide
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Transport
• Permits
• Safety guidance

✔ Independent Budget Version: NPR 18,000–25,000
(if trekking solo without a guide)

Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek

Clothing:

• Thermal layers
• Fleece jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking pants
• Gloves, hat, buff
• Warm down jacket (especially in the snow season)

Gear:

• Trekking poles
• Water purification tablets
• Headlamp
• Backpack 30–40L
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Sleeping bag (recommended)

Safety Tips for a Smooth Trek

• Drink plenty of water.
• Avoid alcohol at altitude.
• Wear proper shoes
• Start early for clear views.
• Stay on the main trail.
• Bring cash — no ATMs
• Check weather forecasts

During the Mardi Himal snow season, be extra careful on ridges and carry microspikes if necessary.

Culture, Villages & People Along the Trail

• Gurung Villages: You will walk through traditional Gurung villages and see their special culture and way of life.
• Farmer Settlements: You will pass small farming areas with terraced fields and see how people work and live in the countryside.
• Local Community Lodges: You can stay in cozy lodges run by local families. They are warm, simple, and very welcoming.
• Buddhist Shrines & Prayer Flags: You will see colorful shrines and prayer flags that show the spiritual beliefs of the people.
• Farmlands & Forests: The trail goes through green forests and farmland, giving you a calm and peaceful trekking experience.
• Friendly Locals: The people are kind and friendly. You can talk with them, share stories, and learn about their traditions.
• Teahouse Experience: Staying in teahouses lets you enjoy local food, learn about mountain life, and feel Nepali hospitality.
• The people are warm, friendly, and welcoming, and staying in teahouses gives you a glimpse of local mountain life in Nepal.

Eco-Friendly Trekking

To keep Mardi Himal clean and preserved:

• Carry reusable bottles
• Avoid plastic snacks
• Stay in eco-friendly lodges.
• Don’t disturb wildlife.
• Support local businesses

This aligns perfectly with the Mardi Himal eco trek concept promoted by Responsible Treks.

Mardi Himal vs Poon Hill Trek — Which Is Better?

​What a Package Includes (With Responsible Treks)

Typical inclusions:

• Licensed English-speaking guide
• Porter (optional)
• Accommodation
• 3 meals per day
• Permits (ACAP + TIMS)
• Private transport
• First-aid kit
• Safety gear in winter

Final Thoughts: Is Mardi Himal Trek Worth It?

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal. You can see amazing mountain views, walk on quiet trails, and enjoy real Himalayan nature. It is good for both new trekkers and people who have trekked before. On this trek, you will walk through colorful rhododendron forests, small peaceful villages, and high hills. You will also see a beautiful sunrise over the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South mountains. The trek starts near Pokhara and is not very crowded, which makes it a great choice for a short and unforgettable adventure.

If you want a safe and comfortable trip, you can join a guided trek with Responsible Treks. They offer helpful guides, cozy teahouse stays, and eco-friendly trekking. Their packages support local people and help protect the clean and beautiful Himalayan environment.