The 10-day Mardi Himal Trek is a popular and accessible short trek in the Annapurna region, renowned for its stunning, close-up views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna massif from the 4,500-meter Mardi Himal Base Camp and Viewpoint. Starting from Pokhara, the moderate trail ascends through vibrant rhododendron forests and traditional villages like Dhampus and Forest Camp to the high alpine pastures of Badal Danda and High Camp, offering diverse landscapes and intimate Himalayan panoramas without extreme altitude. Perfect for beginners, families, and photographers, this teahouse trek features comfortable lodgings, a flexible itinerary that can be shortened to 3-5 days, and operates year-round, with optimal conditions during the clear skies of autumn and the blooming rhododendrons of spring.
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- Duration10 Days
- Price from$669/ person
- Difficulty LevelModerate
- Max Altitude4500 M (14,764 ft)
Mardi Himal was once a "hidden gem" in the Annapurna Region. Today, it is a premier trekking route in Nepal thanks to its unique landscapes, rich biodiversity, and proximity to the mountains at lower elevations. Officially opened in 2014, the route has evolved from having no infrastructure to featuring comfortable lodges and modern amenities. Situated just east of the classic Annapurna Base Camp trail, Mardi Himal sits directly at the base of the iconic Mt. Fishtail.
The major highlights of this trek include breathtaking views of the "Holy Peak" Mt. Fishtail (Machhapuchhre, 6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Baraha Shikhar (7,647m), Singu Chuli (6,501m), and Annapurna I (8,090m). From the Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters, you are surrounded by a spectacular 360-degree Himalayan panorama.
This 10-day journey begins in Kathmandu with a tour of ancient World Heritage sites and permit preparation. The Rugged Trails Nepal team provides a detailed trip briefing during a welcome dinner. We also spend time in Pokhara, exploring its beautiful lakes and monuments before and after the trek. This comprehensive itinerary covers all ground transportation and hotel accommodations in both Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
- The best close-up viewpoints for Mt. Fishtail and Annapurna South.
- Guided visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
- Exploration of the scenic Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake.
- Diverse landscapes ranging from lush jungles to high alpine ridges.
- Authentic encounters with local culture, food, and mountain lifestyles.
Places Covered During the Trek
The trail winds through charming villages and camps including Dhampus, Pothana, Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, Rest Camp, Badal Danda, and High Camp. Along the way, you will encounter ancient rhododendron forests, grazing yaks, and vibrant grasslands. The Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for all levels of hikers and is highly recommended for families. Our itinerary is fully customizable to fit your specific timeframe and interests.
The Best Seasons to Trek
While trekking is possible year-round, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the peak seasons. Spring offers a colorful trail of blooming rhododendrons, while Autumn provides the crispest, clearest mountain views. For those seeking solitude, the winter months (December to February) are quiet and snowy, though trekking to the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint may be restricted depending on snow levels.
A Photographer's Guide to Mardi Himal
Mardi Himal is a "photographic trek" where every turn offers a new masterpiece. To capture the vibrant rhododendrons, visit in Spring. Key photography spots include:
- Pothana Viewpoint: For early mountain vistas.
- Badal Danda (Cloud Ridge): For "above the clouds" shots of the valley.
- High Camp to Base Camp Ridge: For the most intimate shots of Mt. Fishtail.
Food during the Mardi Himal Trek.
Simply select a dish from the menu. The majority of teahouses serve Italian, Indian, Tibetan, and continental cuisines, including piza, pasta, spring rolls, and spaghetti. Our guide will propose foods if you are a vegetarian or vegan, and it is doable. You will receive fresh veggies as well as Dal Bhat, a staple of Nepalese cuisine. For meat eaters, meat is available; however, we advise against eating it after a particular location. The guide will advise if the meat is safe to eat, even though it won't be fresh and will have been transported from the city.
In the cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, food will be on your own, and there are many nice restaurants around. We suggest OR2K in Kathmandu and Pokhara for vegetarian food.
Food and Accommodation
Food: Teahouses offer extensive menus featuring Italian, Indian, Tibetan, and Continental cuisine (Pasta, Piza, Spring Rolls). We highly recommend the local Dal Bhat for energy. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. While meat is served, we advise caution regarding freshness at higher altitudes; our guides will assist you in making safe choices.
Accommodation: You will stay in local family-run teahouses. Standard rooms typically have two beds, while some higher elevations feature dormitory-style arrangements. Most lodges now offer flush toilets and modern updates. While rooms aren't heated, the communal dining areas feature traditional heaters where you can relax in the evenings.
Drinking Water and Showers
We discourage the use of single-use plastic bottles. We recommend using water purification tablets or purchasing boiled/filtered water at teahouses. Hot showers are available at most stops (except Badal Danda) for a small fee (approx. $1–$2 USD).
How Hard is the Trek?
The trek is rated as Moderate. You don't need to be an elite athlete, but you should be comfortable walking 5–6 hours a day with a light daypack. The route is designed for a gradual altitude gain. To prepare, we recommend cardio exercises like cycling, swimming, or stair climbing.
Safety and Travel Insurance
Rugged Trails Nepal provides certified guides equipped with first-aid kits and Pulse Oximeters to monitor your oxygen levels. Travel Insurance is mandatory and must cover medical expenses, air ambulance, and helicopter rescue at high altitudes. Please check the list of the best travel insurance for Nepal trekking.
Family Adventure: Mardi Himal with Kids
The Mardi Himal Trek is an exceptional choice for a family adventure. We have successfully organized numerous treks for families with children as young as two years old. Rugged Trails Nepal provides a specialized support team, including child-friendly guides and porters who are experienced in managing the unique needs of younger trekkers.
Can I hike with my kids? Absolutely. Because the trail is less crowded and the daily distances are manageable, it is considered one of the safest family treks in the Annapurna region. For families with smaller children, we provide professional porters and specialized carriers to ensure everyone enjoys the journey without fatigue.
Is the altitude safe for children? Altitude is managed through careful pacing. Our 10-day itinerary is specifically designed to allow for natural acclimatization. However, the trek remains flexible: if you feel the high-altitude sections are too demanding for your children, you can choose to skip the Base Camp. The panoramic views from Badal Danda (3,210 m) and High Camp (3,580 m) are equally magnificent and provide a full Himalayan experience without the final ascent.
Trekking Gear for the Mardi Himal Trek.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you will need different hiking equipment for the Mardi Himal Trek. Get ideas for packing the right gear by checking out the list of trekking supplies at the link below. If you forget to bring equipment, you can purchase it in Pokhara or Kathmandu. The Porters will handle your baggage; you will just need to carry your valuables. Bring a small daypack with you on the hike so you can transport water and valuables like your wallet, passport, and other items. You will only bring the items that are absolutely required for the walk. Duffle bags will be provided for the trek to put your stuff on by Rugged Trails Nepal.
Can I book the Mardi Himal Trek directly?
"Yes! Reserving your spot is simple and flexible. Whether you want the full 10-day experience or just a trek from Pokhara, all we need is your arrival details and a copy of your passport to begin securing your permits. Your Mardi Himal Trekking Maps and permits will be ready and waiting for you as soon as our guide meets you at your hotel."
The Specialized 5-Day Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara. For those seeking a world-class Himalayan experience without a massive time commitment, our specialized 5-Day Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara is the ultimate solution. This "short and smooth" itinerary is meticulously designed for beginners, busy travelers, and families who want to experience the grandeur of the Annapurna region at a relaxed pace. By focusing on shorter walking days of approximately 4–5 hours, we ensure that you have ample time to soak in the scenery and acclimatize comfortably, making it one of the most accessible beginner-friendly treks in Nepal.
What sets this route apart is our commitment to a "gentle grade" experience. The trail follows a steady, well-maintained path that winds through ancient rhododendron forests and vibrant alpine ridges, avoiding the grueling "stairmaster" climbs found on busier routes. To ensure the smoothest journey possible, we utilize private transport to reach the highest roadheads like Kande or Siding. This Mardi Himal short trek itinerary effectively skips the steeper, lower-elevation heat and congestion, placing you directly into the heart of the mountains.
Perfect for first-timers, this 5-day plan offers a comfortable introduction to high-altitude trekking. You will enjoy the exact same iconic panoramas of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South as the longer versions, but with the added luxury of a flexible schedule and expert support. Whether you are looking for a family trekking package or a quick mountain escape, our 5-day route proves that you don't need weeks of time to stand in the shadow of the world’s highest peaks.
Mardi Himal Trek: 10-Day Outline Itinerary
This chart provides a quick reference for your daily movement, including walking/driving distances and the maximum elevation reached each day.
| Day | Destination | Activity | Max Elevation | Distance |
| 01 | Kathmandu | Arrival & Trip Briefing | 1,350 m | 6 km (Drive) |
| 02 | Kathmandu | UNESCO World Heritage Sightseeing | 1,350 m | 20 km (Drive) |
| 03 | Pokhara | Scenic Highway Drive | 827 m | 210 km (Drive) |
| 04 | Pitam Deurali | Drive to Kande & Trek Start | 2,100 m | 5.8 km (Trek) |
| 05 | Rest Camp | Trek via Forest Camp | 2,605 m | 9 km (Trek) |
| 06 | High Camp | Trek via Badal Danda (Cloud Ridge) | 3,580 m | 7 km (Trek) |
| 07 | Mardi Base Camp | Summit Push & return to Badal Danda | 4,500 m | 12.8 km (Trek) |
| 08 | Pokhara | Trek to Sidding & Drive to Pokhara | 827 m* | 5.3 km (Trek) |
| 09 | Kathmandu | Return Drive & Farewell Dinner | 1,350 m | 210 km (Drive) |
| 10 | Departure | Private Airport Transfer | 1,350 m | 6 km (Drive) |
Mardi Himal Trekking Package Price & Logistics (Budget Travelers)
Our 10-day Mardi Himal trek package offers a premium experience for budget-conscious travelers. This "Kathmandu to Kathmandu" itinerary includes deluxe AC hotel accommodations in the city, private airport transfers, and guided city tours in private vehicles. To maintain an affordable price point, we utilize comfortable shared tourist buses for the scenic journey between Kathmandu and Pokhara.
| Group Size | Price Per Person (USD) |
| 2 People | $506 |
| 4 People | $445 |
| 6 - 10 People | $345 |
What makes this tour very interesting
Flexible Itineraries: 3 to 10 Days
While our signature 10-Day Mardi Himal Trek offers the most comprehensive experience—including cultural tours in Kathmandu and relaxation in Pokhara—we provide several "set packages" starting directly from Pokhara to fit your needs:
- The 5-Day "Short & Smooth" Trek: Our most recommended route for beginners and families, focusing on shorter walking hours and gradual acclimatization.
- The 4-Day "Ridge Experience": The ideal balance of efficiency and scenery, utilizing the Kalimati route to reach the high points faster.
- The 3-Day "Express" Trek: A fast-paced option for physically fit hikers who have limited time but want to stand at the Mardi Viewpoint.
Note: For safety and a better experience, we recommend the 4 or 5-day options for families. If you are unsure which pace suits your group, please message our team for a custom recommendation.
Why Nepal in 2025
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Read thisItinerary
The Mardi Himal Trek covers a total walking distance of approximately 40 to 45 kilometers (25 to 28 miles) over five days of active trekking. This scenic journey begins at Kande and ascends through lush rhododendron forests and high alpine ridges, reaching its ultimate climax at the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Throughout the trek, you will average 5 to 6 hours of walking per day, traversing a diverse landscape that transitions from traditional villages like Pothana to the dramatic, high-altitude terrain of High Camp and the Mardi Viewpoint before descending steeply to Sidding for your return drive to Pokhara.
- Day: 1
Arrive in Kathmandu.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a friendly representative from Rugged Trails Nepal will be waiting to provide a warm "meet and greet" service. You will be escorted via private vehicle to your hotel, where our team will assist you with a seamless check-in process. Later in the day, we will host a comprehensive trip briefing at your hotel. During this session, you will be introduced to your professional trekking guide, receive a detailed breakdown of your daily activities, and have the opportunity to ask any final questions. This personalized introduction ensures you are fully prepared and comfortable before we begin our journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.
- Day: 2
Kathmandu city tour.
After breakfast, we begin a guided exploration of Kathmandu’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. Our first stop is the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa (often called the Monkey Temple), which offers a commanding view of the city and deep insight into Nepal’s religious harmony. We then proceed to Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its exquisite Newari architecture, woodcarvings, and bronze craftsmanship. To conclude our cultural tour, we visit the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world and a center of Tibetan culture.
Upon returning to the hotel, we will hold a final briefing to review the upcoming trek logistics and weather conditions. If you need any last-minute trekking gear, such as down jackets, sleeping bags, or trekking poles, your guide will accompany you to a trusted trekking equipment store in Thamel. This vibrant neighborhood is the best place to find high-quality gear or rent items for the journey ahead, ensuring you are fully equipped and ready for our departure to the mountains the following morning.
- Day: 3
Drive to pokhara
Following breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Pokhara, a journey of approximately 210 kilometers that takes you through the heart of Nepal’s middle hills. This drive offers a captivating look at the country’s diverse geography as we follow the winding Trishuli River, passing through lush valleys, vibrant riverside settlements, and traditional terraced farms. Along the way, you will be treated to glimpses of distant mountain ranges and the daily rhythms of local village life.
Upon arrival in Pokhara—the stunning gateway to the Annapurna region—we will check into your hotel. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the shores of Phewa Lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the reflection of the Machhapuchhre peak in the water. If time permits and you are feeling active, an optional hike or drive to the World Peace Stupa for sunset offers a magnificent panoramic view of the lake, the city, and the towering Himalayan giants that await us tomorrow.
- Day: 4
Pokhara drive to Kande Trek to Pitam Deurali
Your trekking adventure begins at 8:30 AM with a scenic one-hour drive from Pokhara to Kande village, the official gateway to your 5-day Mardi Himal Trekking itinerary. The initial trail from Kande to Australian Base Camp features a gentle uphill climb, winding through traditional villages where you can witness authentic mountain farming and the local lifestyle. Upon reaching Australian Camp, you are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, including the iconic Mt. Fishtail. The journey continues with a peaceful walk through the charming Pothana village, eventually entering a lush, serene forest trail that leads to Pitam Deurali. Situated at an elevation of 2,100 meters, Pitam Deurali offers a stunning evening backdrop of the Himalayas, complete with warm teahouse accommodation and delicious local meals to celebrate your first day on the Mardi trail.
- Day: 5
Trek to Rest Camp via Forest Camp
We highly recommend waking up early to witness the early morning clarity of the Himalayas. After enjoying breakfast with a direct view of the peaks, you will begin your ascent toward Rest Camp, which is located approximately 45 minutes beyond the traditional Forest Camp. By choosing to stay at Rest Camp for the night, you position yourself for a more peaceful environment and a spectacular sunrise the following morning. The trail today ascends steadily through ancient rhododendron forests, where the air is crisp and filled with the scent of pine.
This section of the Mardi Himal trekking trail is a haven for nature lovers, offering frequent sightings of vibrant mountain birds flitting through the canopy. As you climb higher, the forest begins to thin, revealing breathtaking and ever-changing panoramas of snow-capped peaks. The path winds along scenic ridges, providing a deep sense of accomplishment as the majestic Himalayas reveal themselves in full glory. Reaching Rest Camp offers a unique perspective of Mt. Fishtail and the surrounding landscapes, making it a highlight for those seeking a serene and scenic overnight experience.
- Day: 6
Rest Camp - Low Camp Trek to High Camp.
Start your morning with a spectacular sunrise over Mount Fishtail and Mardi Himal, savoring a hot breakfast as the first light hits the surrounding valleys. Today’s journey toward High Camp is a scenic transition through diverse ecological zones. The trail initially winds through a lush, moss-covered forest before reaching Badal Danda (Middle Camp), where you officially break the treeline. At this iconic viewpoint, the dense forest gives way to high alpine grasslands and vibrant green pastures, offering unobstructed, wide-angle vistas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mt. Machhapuchhre.
After enjoying a well-deserved lunch at Badal Danda, the trek continues along a dramatic ridgeline toward High Camp (3,580m). As you ascend, you will notice the rhododendron trees transforming into smaller bushes, perfectly adapted to the high-altitude terrain. Upon arrival at High Camp, you are exposed to an intimate and breathtaking view of the Himalayan peaks. Use the afternoon to explore the area, capture stunning photographs, and let your body acclimatize to the crisp mountain air. This is the final staging point for your summit push; ensure a restful night’s sleep as an early wake-up call awaits for your trek to the Mardi Himal Base Camp tomorrow morning.
- Day: 7
View Point- Mardi Base Camp 4500 M (14,764 ft) - Badal Danda.
The highlight of your journey begins with an early alpine start around 4:00 AM. In the quiet of the morning, you will traverse the narrow, grassy ridgeline by the light of your headlamp, ascending toward the Mardi Himal Viewpoint. As dawn breaks, the first light of day reveals the sheer magnitude of the surrounding peaks, creating a surreal and deeply moving landscape. Reaching the viewpoint at 4,200 meters, you will be awestruck by the panoramic and unexpectedly close-up views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range, looking down at High Camp far below to truly realize how far you have climbed.
For those eager to reach the ultimate destination, the trail continues along the dramatic ridge toward the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). This stretch offers a front-row seat to the staggering Annapurna gorge below and the massive face of Mardi Himal standing directly in front of you. After absorbing these life-changing vistas and capturing incredible photographs at the base camp, you will begin your descent. Following a rewarding morning on the high ridge, you will return to High Camp for a warm lunch before trekking further down to Badal Danda (Middle Camp) for your overnight stay, allowing you to relax and reflect on your summit achievement amidst the clouds.
- Day: 8
Badal Danda - Sidding - Drive back to Pokhara
The final day of your trek begins with a descent from the high ridges of Badal Danda, passing through Low Camp before entering a dense, beautiful forest trail. The path leads you steeply downhill toward Sidding Village, a traditional settlement that offers a glimpse into the authentic rural lifestyle of the Annapurna region. After reaching Sidding, you will enjoy a final mountain lunch to celebrate the completion of your trekking circuit. From here, we transition from the trail to a jeep for a scenic drive back to Pokhara.
Arriving in Pokhara by the afternoon, you will have plenty of free time to relax and recover. You can enjoy a peaceful boating trip on Phewa Lake, indulge in a well-deserved massage, or explore the vibrant shops and cafes along the Lakeside.
- Day: 9
Pokhara - Kathmandu.
After a relaxing final breakfast in Pokhara, we begin our scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The journey follows the winding Trishuli River, passing through vibrant local towns and lush terraced hillsides as we transition from the tranquility of the mountains back to the energy of the capital. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure—it is the perfect time to soothe tired muscles with a traditional Nepali massage, finish some last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel, or simply relax at a garden café. To celebrate the successful completion of your journey, we gather in the evening for a special farewell dinner with the Rugged Trails Nepal team, sharing stories and photos from our unforgettable adventure in the Himalayas.
- Day: 10
Final departure.
On your final day in Nepal, a representative from Rugged Trails Nepal will provide a private transfer to the international airport in accordance with your flight schedule. We ensure you arrive with plenty of time for check-in and security procedures. For those fortunate enough to have extra days in the country, the adventure doesn't have to end here; you can continue with other activities such as a jungle safari, white-water rafting, or exploring more of the Kathmandu Valley. Whether you are heading home or onto your next destination, the Rugged Trails Nepal team remains at your service. If you need any assistance with further travel plans or future trekking adventures, feel free to contact us anytime. Safe travels and we hope to see you in the mountains again!
What's Included
- Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) in Trekking
- Accommodation during the trek (local lodge).
- The government registered English-speaking local expert guides and porters.
- Annapurna Conservation Park fees, TIMS Card.
- Accommodation at a standard hotel in Kathmandu includes twin sharing with breakfast.
- A guided tour in a city with an expert tour guide.
- Welcome and farewell dinner in the city
- Equipment and clothing for porters and staff.
- Insurance for all staff and porters.
- Transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek
- First Aid Kit for Mardi Himal Trek
- Duffel bag and Mardi Himal trekking.
- Salary, allowances, expenses & insurance for all staff, including porters
What’s Excluded
- Nepal visa Fees
- Lunch and dinner during the hotel stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Personal gear and clothing (available on hire)
- Tips for guide and porters
- Any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation or roadblock due to any reason
- Personal insurance and medical evacuation in case of emergency.
- Services other than those mentioned above.
- Items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, and mineral water.
- Entrance fees during sightseeing in the city.
Availabilities
Departure Note
Your Journey, Your Dates: Private Departures
At Rugged Trails Nepal, we choose quality over crowd. We don't believe in packing large groups of strangers together. Instead, we specialize in Private & Small Group Treks where our focus remains entirely on you.
- No Fixed Dates: You choose the start date that fits your flight and your life.
- Your Own Pace: Because it’s a private trip, you don't have to worry about keeping up with others or being slowed down. The mountains are yours to enjoy at your own speed.
- Dedicated Support: You get our best guides and porters committed solely to your safety and comfort.
Short Trek Group Joins (Departing from Pokhara)
For those looking for a shorter mountain escape, we offer Open Group Join Dates for our 3, 4, and 5-day Mardi Himal routes starting directly from Pokhara. These are perfect for meeting fellow adventurers while enjoying our signature professional support.
FAQs
- How Difficult Is The Mardi Himal Trek For Beginners?
It is considered a Moderate trek. While there are steep sections near the Viewpoint, our 10-day itinerary is designed with shorter walking days to ensure anyone with a basic level of fitness can reach the Base Camp safely.
- Do I Need Travel Insurance For This Trek?
Yes, it is mandatory. Your insurance must cover emergency helicopter evacuation and medical expenses up to 5,000 meters. Check our guide on Travel Insurance for Nepal for recommendations
- What Is The Best Time Of Year To See The Rhododendrons?
Spring (March to early May) is the best time. The forests between Forest Camp and Low Camp turn into a vibrant sea of pink and red.
- Is There An Age Limit For Children On This Trek?
We have successfully guided children as young as 5 years old. For families, we recommend our 5-day Short & Smooth package which avoids long, grueling days.
- Can I Charge My Camera And Use Wi-Fi During The Trek?
Yes, most teahouses offer charging and Wi-Fi for a small fee (approx. $1–$3). However, electricity can be limited at High Camp, so we recommend bringing a portable power bank.
Useful Information
Expand Your Journey: Combined Annapurna Trekking Routes
The Mardi Himal trail is perfectly positioned to be combined with other world-class routes in the Annapurna Sanctuary. If you want to witness more than one iconic destination in a single journey, we have designed several "Set Packages" that seamlessly link these trails together.
Popular Combined Packages:
- Mardi Himal & Ghorepani Poon Hill: Experience the famous rhododendron forests and sunrise of Poon Hill before crossing over to the high alpine ridges of Mardi Himal.
- Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) with Mardi Himal: The ultimate Himalayan adventure. Visit the heart of the Annapurna massif at ABC and then transition to the best "close-up" view of Mt. Fishtail on the Mardi ridge.
- Annapurna Foothills & Mardi Himal: A gentler, more cultural approach that explores the traditional Gurung villages of Landruk and Ghandruk alongside the Mardi trail.
Explore the Possibilities
Our trekking routes are recently updated with the latest trail conditions, new lodge facilities, and optimized timeframes. To find the perfect plan for your fitness level and schedule, follow the link below to our recently updated guide:
Explore Recently Updated Mardi Himal Trek Routes & Possible Plans
Know Before You Go: Mardi Himal 2026
Preparation is the key to a legendary trek. To ensure you have a seamless experience, here is everything you need to know about the logistics, costs, and safety for your Mardi Himal journey.
1. Daily Budget: What’s Not Included?
While your Rugged Trails Nepal package covers your main costs (permits, guide, meals, and stay), the teahouses in the mountains are small independent businesses. You will need a small amount of local cash (Nepalese Rupees) for personal "mountain luxuries":
- Hot Showers: $1–$3 per shower (available up to High Camp).
- Charging Electronics: $1–$3 per device (solar/battery charging is common).
- Wi-Fi Access: $2–$4 (signals are okay, not stable everywhere).
- Drinking Water: $1–$2 per liter (we recommend using your own bottle with purification tablets to save money and the environment, but places like Badal Danda use boiled and filtered water from the tea house).
2. Tipping Etiquette (Guide & Porter)
Tipping is a deeply appreciated custom in Nepal. It is a way to say "Thank You" for the hard work and care your team provides. While it is at your discretion, the standard industry guideline for a 10-day trek is:
- For your Guide: $10–$15 per day (total from your group).
- For your Porter: $8–$10 per day (total from your group).
Tip: It is traditional to present tips in an envelope on the final evening of the trek.
3. Physical Fitness & Health
You don't need to be a marathon runner, but Mardi Himal involves steady climbing near Mardi Himal Viewpoint.
- Preparation: We recommend 30 minutes of cardio (stair climbing, jogging, or cycling) 3 times a week for at least a month before your arrival.
- Altitude Safety: We practice "Active Acclimatization." Our guides are trained to spot early signs of AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) and carry pulse oximeters to check your oxygen levels at High Camp (3,580m).
4. Connectivity & Power
- SIM Cards: We recommend getting an Ncell or Nepal Telecom SIM card at the airport. You will have a 4G signal for about 40 to 60% of the trek.
- Power Banks: Even though teahouses offer charging, a portable power bank (10,000 mAh+) is highly recommended to keep your camera ready for those sunrise shots.
5. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
Your insurance must specifically cover High Altitude Trekking (up to 5,000m) and include Emergency Helicopter Evacuation. Most standard travel insurance policies exclude these, so please double-check your policy details before flying. Check out the suggested travel insurance for Nepal trekking.
Similar to Your Taste
Reviews
Amazing 5 Star Experience
- Daniel, United StatesRugged Trails delivered an absolutely phenomenal experience on our three-day Mardi Himal trek in the Annapurna range. The entire trip ran flawlessly from the first step out of Pokhara to the final descent. Our porter worked like a machine—steady, reliable, and always two steps ahead of what we needed—while our guide, Shrawan Kumar, was perfect in every way. Patient, knowledgeable, and calm no matter how steep or how long the climb became, he set the pace, kept the group motivated, and explained local culture, landscape, and trail details with the kind of depth you only get from someone who truly knows the mountains.
The trek itself was life-changing: stunning ridgelines, surreal views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna, and the kind of quiet that resets your entire brain. We can’t wait to come back and do it again—there’s no question who we’ll book with. If you want the best possible Annapurna or Mardi Himal experience, ask specifically for Shrawan Kumar. He made an already incredible journey unforgettable.
An ACE Guide, an Amazing Trek: Our Mardi Himal Journey
- Oliver and Emma, United KingdomWe just did the Mardi Himal trek with Rugged Trails. It was so amazing; the views are incredible, and the scenery is incredible. The walk is really peaceful; it takes you through landscapes and the guide, Shrawan, was brilliant. Shrawan was ACE! Absolute once-in-a-lifetime experience; we might come back again.
Life time experince with Rugged Trails Nepal
- Juan Diaz, ColombiaMy girlfriend and I booked a full week of activities with Rugged Trails, including the 3 days Himal Trek and a jungle safari in Chitwan. The whole process went smoothly, and the Rugged staff were always willing to help us logistically. Also, our tour guides in the mountains and jungle were nice and patient. I highly recommend the agency if you want to book a relaxing holiday.