Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek starts from the ridge of mountains going east of the Annapurna Base Camp trek route. The trek usually starts from Kande, passing through either the Australian Camp or Pothana and moving on to Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp. In the lower levels, there are oak, bamboo, and rhododendron forests.
As one progresses to higher altitudes, one will notice that the forests become sparse and the landscape reveals the ridgelines of the Annapurna range.
The High Camp forms an important point for staying overnight along most trekking trails. This trail continues to go to the Upper View Point and in some cases goes up to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The second part gives trekkers a close look of Machhapuchhre mountain, also known as Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
This particular trail is quite unique due to its shorter duration as compared to other trails in the region; however, it still poses a lot of challenges with the steep climb, exposed ridges, and elevation gain that needs proper planning.
Photos And Videos
Highlights
- Machhapuchhre views
- Rhododendron forests
- High Camp
- Upper Viewpoint
- Annapurna mountains
- Mountain villages
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Pokhara → Kande → Forest Camp
Drive: 1–1.5 hours · Trek: 10–12 km · 5–6 hours Start: Kande (~1,770 m) · Overnight: Forest Camp (~2,520–2,600 m) Begin with a drive from Pokhara to Kande. Climb through terraced farmland, Australian Camp, Pothana and Deurali before entering dense rhododendron and oak forest toward Forest Camp.
- 2
Forest Camp → Low Camp
Distance: 5–7 km · 3–5 hours Overnight: Low Camp (~2,970 m) Continue uphill through moss-covered forest and rhododendron trees. The forest begins to thin as you approach Low Camp, where views of Machhapuchhre start opening up. Rest during the afternoon to adjust to the increasing altitude.
- 3
Low Camp → Badal Danda → High Camp
Distance: 5–7 km · 3–5 hours Overnight: High Camp (~3,550–3,580 m) Leave the forest behind and climb along the exposed ridge through Middle Camp and Badal Danda. Enjoy wide views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre. Walk slowly as the altitude increases, and keep warm because the ridge can be windy.
- 4
High Camp → Upper Viewpoint → descend to Low Camp
Distance: approximately 10–14 km · 7–9 hours Highest point: Upper Viewpoint (~4,200 m); Base Camp is farther on some routes Start early for the climb toward the Lower and Upper Viewpoints. On a clear morning, you can see the Annapurna range and the dramatic face of Machhapuchhre. Continuing to Mardi Himal Base Camp (around 4,500 m) depends on trail conditions, weather, available time and your guide's assessment. Return to High Camp and descend toward Low Camp if time and conditions allow.
- 5
Low Camp → Siding → Pokhara
Trek: approximately 10–13 km · 4–6 hours, then jeep transfer Finish: Siding village (~1,700–1,860 m) Descend through forest and terraced hillsides toward Siding village. From there, take a local jeep or arranged vehicle back to Pokhara, usually requiring a further 2–3 hours depending on road conditions.
Things to Carry
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