Mardi Himal Trek offers an opportunity to escape the Annapurna Region’s tourist trails and venture into the deep forests and high alpine pastures at the base of Machhapuchhare Himal (the famous Fish Tail Mountain). There are very basic tea houses or lodges therefore this is a camping trek. Mardi Himal Trek meanders through lush valleys, alpine meadows, lichen-laden dense forests, numerous streams and waterfalls, all the while the fascinating mountain sceneries gleaming upon the close horizon. An eco-trek in the quintessence, the path is so less used that you feel like embarking upon a discovery expedition when you pass through the route. We start the trek from Phedi near Pokhara and spend our first night in Pothana Deurali. From there we enter into complete wilderness for days until we emerge from there into the village of Siding. From Siding, we return to Pokhara and end this exciting Annapurna hike through the wild nature.
Mardi Himal Trek starts from Pokhara like the others in the Annapurna area. Depending on the time you like to spend, the itinerary can be customized to accommodate the total trip in less than a week or for about two weeks. You can definitely take a full plunge into the virtually untouched territories of the natural world as you acquaint first hand with the alpine flora and fauna as well as the high altitude mountain terrain. You can enjoy the sceneries of the Annapurnas including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal, Himchuli, Mardi Himal and numerous other peaks if the weather is fine.
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have the day to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead. This is a perfect opportunity to check your gear, get familiar with the city, and explore Thamel, a vibrant area with shops, cafes, and local culture. Take it easy and enjoy the sights of the city, or visit a nearby cultural site if you’re feeling up for it. In the evening, rest at your hotel in Kathmandu before heading to Pokhara the following day.
On the second day, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. You can choose to take a scenic tourist bus ride (6–8 hours) or fly directly to Pokhara in just 25 minutes. Once you arrive in Pokhara, enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring Pokhara’s charming Lakeside area, and enjoy a relaxed dinner with a view of Phewa Lake. Stay overnight in Pokhara to rest before starting your trek.
After breakfast, you’ll drive for about 1.5 hours to the trailhead at Kande. From Kande, begin your trek to Australian Camp (2060m), which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The path is gradual and offers scenic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) mountains as you ascend. Once you arrive at Australian Camp, enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and relax in this beautiful ridge-top village. It’s a perfect spot to witness a stunning sunset, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Overnight at Australian Camp.
On the fourth day, you’ll trek from Australian Camp through the charming village of Pothana and continue into the lush rhododendron forest. The trail is peaceful and filled with nature, gradually gaining altitude. The trek takes about 5–6 hours before reaching Forest Camp (2550m), a tranquil stop to rest and have lunch. Afterward, continue trekking for another 1–2 hours to Badal Danda (3250m). This place offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, including Machapuchare and Annapurna South. It’s a wonderful spot for sunset views. Stay overnight at Badal Danda.
On the fifth day, begin your trek early in the morning to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4200m). The hike to the viewpoint will take about 3 hours, offering stunning close-up views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail). After taking in the spectacular views, return to Badal Danda for a break before starting your descent to Siding Village. The downhill trek from Badal Danda to Siding takes about 5–6 hours. Once you reach Siding, take a jeep back to Pokhara (about 2.5 hours). Spend the evening relaxing in Pokhara and enjoy the lakeside views one last time. Overnight in Pokhara.
On the final day, you’ll travel back to Kathmandu. You can either take a tourist bus (6–8 hours) or fly back to Kathmandu in 25 minutes. After arriving, you’ll have some time to rest, shop, or explore if you have time before your departure. This marks the end of your memorable Mardi Himal Trek.
Note: If the below itinerary interests you or if you would like to plan and develop your own custom itinerary, please feel free to contact us by clicking ‘inquiry’ on the right hand side of your screen and we will be glad to advice, help, recommend and provide you with a quote.
