Overview
Mardi Himal is Pokhara's best-kept secret — a ridgeline trek that climbs steadily through rhododendron and bamboo forest to a high camp at 4,500m with arguably the best unobstructed view of Machapuchare (Fishtail Peak) available from any trekking trail in Nepal. The route runs parallel to the Annapurna Base Camp trail but stays high on a forested ridge, delivering mountain views for the entire upper section.
Because it was only officially opened as a trekking route in 2012, Mardi Himal still sees a fraction of the crowds that its famous neighbours attract. The teahouses are small and personal, the trail is quiet, and at High Camp the panorama of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South fills every direction without another trekker in the frame.
At five to seven days from Pokhara and back, this is perfect for trekkers who want serious altitude and genuine mountain views without the full commitment of a longer route. The High Camp sunrise is one of the finest in the Annapurna region.
Highlights
- Mardi Himal High Camp (4,500m) — The ridge camp with a 270° panorama of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the full Annapurna range at eye level
- Machhapuchhre Close-up — The sacred Fishtail peak towers directly overhead from High Camp — closer and more dramatic than from any other trekking trail
- Ridgeline Walking — The upper trail runs along an open ridgeline above the treeline with views on both sides — rare in Nepal trekking
- Low Crowd Density — Officially opened in 2012, Mardi Himal sees 20x fewer trekkers than the Annapurna Base Camp route on the same massif
- Forest Camp Rhododendrons — Forest Camp (2,550m) sits in one of the densest rhododendron zones in the Annapurna region — spectacular in spring
- Siding Village Return — The descent via Siding village offers a genuine Gurung cultural experience with homestay options and mountain views
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1Pokhara to Kande to Forest Camp (2,550m) — 1-hour drive to Kande, 4-hour walk through forest. Good teahouses at Forest Camp.
Day 2Forest Camp to Low Camp (3,050m) to High Camp (3,580m) — 5–6 hours. Rhododendron forest transitions to alpine scrub. Views open dramatically.
Day 3High Camp to Mardi Himal High Camp (4,500m) — 3–4 hours up the ridge. Return to High Camp to sleep.
Day 4High Camp sunrise + descent to Siding Village (1,750m) — Dawn at High Camp, then descend through forest to Siding — a different and scenic route down.
Day 5Siding to Pokhara — 2-hour drive back. Trek complete.
What's Included
- Licensed guide and porter
- All teahouse accommodation
- All meals on trail
- TIMS Card and ACAP permit
- Transport Pokhara–Kande and Siding–Pokhara
What's Not Included
- Flights to Pokhara and international flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear
- Tips (customary: $60–80 USD)