Gongabu, Kathmandu, Nepal
+977-9841409994
info@earthmtreks.com.np
Earth Matter Treks & Expedition Nepal

  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Regions

    Annapurna

  • Activity

    Trekking/Hiking

  • Accomodation

    Hotel (Kathmandu) / Local Teahouses (Trek)

  • Transportation

    Hiace & Local bus

  • Duration

    12 Days

  • Trip Grade

    Easy

  • Altitude

    4500 m

  • Best Season

    March-May & Sept-Nov

  • Start/End Point

    Kande/Siding

Destination Region Activity Accomodation Transportation
Nepal Annapurna Trekking/Hiking Hotel (Kathmandu) / Local Teahouses (Trek) Hiace & Local bus
Duration Trip Grade Altitude Best Season Start/End Point
12 Days Easy 4500 m March-May & Sept-Nov Kande/Siding

Trip Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the Annapurna region’s finest short ridge trails, offering a quieter, less-traveled alternative to the classic main routes. Branching off from the standard paths near Kande, the trail ascends steadily along a high mountain ridge tucked beneath the iconic, sacred peak of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

The journey begins in lush, lower-altitude subtropical forests filled with oak, maple, and ancient rhododendron trees. As you climb higher through Forest Camp and Low Camp, the dense canopy gradually gives way to open, exposed alpine ridges at High Camp. Walking along this high crest provides continuous, unobstructed vistas of the Annapurna Sanctuary, with dramatic wall-like views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.

The climax of the trek is an early morning hike along the narrow ridge toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint (4,200 m). Standing right at the base of Machhapuchhre at first light rewards trekkers with one of the most intimate mountain panoramas in Nepal. After soaking in the views, the trail drops sharply through traditional forested paths into the tranquil Gurung village of Siding before returning to Pokhara. Offering rapid elevation shifts, authentic teahouse stays, and dramatic high-ridge walking, the Mardi Himal Trek captures the true spirit of the Himalayas in a short, manageable journey.

Trip Highlights

  • Stand at the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint (4,200 m) for jaw-dropping, close-up vistas of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna massif.
  • Trek along peaceful, less-crowded forest ridges that remain a hidden gem of the Annapurna region.
  • Journey through changing landscapes ranging from lush rhododendron forests to high alpine ridgelines.
  • Witness unforgettable sunrises and sunsets illuminating the snow-capped Himalayan giants.
  • Experience authentic village hospitality by staying in traditional teahouses along the less-traveled eastern ridge route.

Itinerary

  • Our team will pick you up from Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in central Kathmandu. After checking in, you can rest after your flight or take a walk around Thamel to get oriented.
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • We spend today running through route details, checking your gear list, and sorting out necessary trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS). If you need any final personal items or clothing layers, you will have plenty of time during the day in Thamel. In the evening, you can pack your duffel bag and rest before the journey begins.
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • Driving time: 6 to 7 hours
  • We leave Kathmandu in the morning on a private vehicle, taking a scenic drive along the Prithvi Highway through winding river valleys, terraced hillsides, and rural market towns until we reach Pokhara. In the evening, you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the shores of Phewa Lake.
  • Overnight stay in Pokhara.

  • Driving time: 1 hour | Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
  • After breakfast in Pokhara, our private vehicle takes us to Kande, the starting point of our trek. We begin walking uphill through Australian Camp, offering sweeping views of the Annapurna range, and continue through peaceful rhododendron forests until we reach Deurali.
  • Overnight stay in Deurali.

  • Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
  • Today’s trail winds through a quiet, dense wilderness of oak, maple, and rhododendron trees along a scenic ridge. The path is tranquil and shaded, offering occasional glimpses of the valley below before arriving at Forest Camp.
  • Overnight stay in Forest Camp.

  • Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
  • As we continue climbing along the ridge, the vegetation starts to thin out, giving way to shorter shrubs and alpine growth. The mountain views begin to open up more prominently, with Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) appearing closer and more striking as we reach Low Camp.
  • Overnight stay in Low Camp.

  • Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours
  • A shorter but steeper climb today above the tree line. The trail leads along the open ridge with breathtaking panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. We arrive at High Camp by early afternoon, leaving plenty of time to rest and watch the changing light over the peaks.
  • Overnight stay in High Camp.

  • Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours total
  • We start before dawn to hike up along the narrow ridge toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint (4,200 m) for a stunning sunrise panorama right under the shadow of Machhapuchhre. After soaking in the views and heading back down to High Camp for breakfast, we take a long, scenic descent down off the main ridge through traditional paths to reach the quiet village of Siding.
  • Overnight stay in Siding.

  • Hiking time: 2 to 3 hours | Driving time: 1 hour
  • Our final morning of trekking takes us past rural settlements and terraced fields down to Lumre, where our private vehicle meets us for the short drive back to Pokhara. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free to relax by the lake.
  • Overnight stay in Pokhara.

  • Driving time: 6 to 7 hours
  • After breakfast in Pokhara, we board our private vehicle for the scenic return drive along the highway back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you are dropped off at your hotel with the rest of the day free to rest or shop in Thamel.
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • A dedicated day to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites across the Kathmandu Valley. After breakfast, our guide and private driver take you to visit iconic heritage spots, including Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the evening, you can head out into Thamel to explore its lively night market, rooftop bars, and local music scene.
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

  • After breakfast, our representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. This marks the end of your 12-day Mardi Himal trekking adventure in Nepal. Safe travels!

Cost Inclusion/Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • Six nights accommodation in city hotels (4 nights in Kathmandu & 2 nights in Pokhara) on a bed and breakfast (BB) plan.
  • All accommodation during the trek in handpicked teahouses (attached bathrooms where available).
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trekking days, along with a cup of tea or coffee with every meal.
  • Fresh seasonal fruit provided after dinner during the trek (if and when available).
  • All overland ground transportation between Kathmandu, Pokhara, Kande, Lumre, and Kathmandu as per the itinerary by private vehicle.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
  • Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trekking guide and local porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) to carry your main luggage.
  • Complete staff insurance, daily wages, meals, accommodations, equipment, and transportation for all trekking staff.
  • Full-day guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Sites by private vehicle.
  • Complimentary use of an Earth Matter Treks duffel bag for the trek duration.

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare and Nepal Visa fees.
  • Lunch and dinner during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Entrance ticket fees for heritage sites, monuments, and temples during the Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tour.
  • Personal travel and medical insurance (including coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation).
  • Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, mineral/bottled water, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and electronic device charging fees on the trail.
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear (e.g., down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking poles, hiking boots).
  • Tips for your guide, porters, and drivers at the end of the trip as a gesture of thanks.
  • Extra accommodation or transport (land/air) due to unforeseen circumstances.

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