Mardi Himal Trek

Overview

Beautiful Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal. It is situated in Kaski district. It’s got everything to shock you from whatever angle you want. It will not rival the crowds of Annapurna Base Camp or The Everest, but the vistas? Just as powerful. This is a relatively short trek that offers spectacular close-up views of the high mountains, in particular, Mardi Himal (5,587m). It lies just beneath beautiful Machapuchare (Fishtail, 6,993 m).

East Side of Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This trek is situated to the east of the better-known Annapurna Base Camp trail. The path had been open all along. It was finally officially opened in about 2012. This makes it a fairly young street to be targeted. This trek is extremely close to Pokhara, only around 27 km away. You will encounter more ridgeline walks, fewer villages, and an impression of being nearer to the sky than the road.

The trek starts from Kande. Kande is only 1.5 hours away from Pokhara. You will ascend gently towards the Australian Camp, Pothana, and Forest Camp. Move upward, and the territory changes quickly. You will be able to spot the thick rhododendron forests. You’ll notice mossy trails as well as cozy wooden tea houses. The trek from Low Camp (2,970m) to High Camp (3,580m) is a silent ridge walk with enormous drop-offs and even bigger views.

The maximum altitude reached during trekking is Mardi Himal View Point (4,200 m). But take it a step further, and you could be pushing a little more to reach Mardi Base Camp (4,500 m). On good, clear days, you can even see Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), as well as Dhaulagiri in the distance.

The best part of this trek is that it is shorter and, yes, much less crowded. You can complete this trek in 5 to 8 days. It all varies with your speed. It is also a flexible one. You can travel from teahouse to teahouse, or you can camp if you’re seeking solitude. Because it remains off the well-trodden tourist path. You have more time with the locals, more time in nature, and certainly, less distraction.

The Mardi Himal Trek is difficult, strenuous in some places. And much of that is on a very narrow ridge, as well. And the weather can be volatile around here, too. It is particularly visible near High Camp. You’ll need proper gear, a little persistence, and a touch of mountain sense. Elevation is not so extreme, but you will pass over 4,000 meters, so you should acclimate properly!

Highlights

• Panoramic images of Mardi Himal (5,587m) and Machapuchare (6,993m).
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• Everything else you'll hike to Mardi Himal, Starlit Skyline Trek, and Base Camp (if you go).
• Clear panoramic vistas of Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) if it is bright.
• Begins just 1.5 hours away from Pokhara—a convenient, no-marathon travel day required.
• Brief duration — achievable within 5–7 days.
• There are fewer trekkers than in ABC or EBC.
• Thick rhododendron forests that surround the trail (during spring)
• Teahouse trekking is possible all along the trail — no camping equipment required.
• Views of sunrise and sunset from High Camp.
• Offers a fantastic high-altitude (up to 4,500 m) experience without extreme difficulty.