Trekking to Mardi Himal: A Short and Magnificent Trek in the Annapurna

ABC and EBC Nepal Trekking Adventure
Updated on June 08, 2025
Mardi Himal Trekking

Mardi Himal, situated in the Annapurna region, has increasingly become a favored trekking destination in recent times. The rise of teahouses has led to a growing number of trekkers visiting Mardi these days. Embarking on a trek to the base camp of Mardi Himal, located just beneath Machhapuchhre or Mt. Fishtail, offers a stunning and brief adventure. This article provides insights into some key facts about Mardi Himal Trekking.

This blog on a trek to Mardi Himal details will surely assist you in experiencing one of the finest short trekking adventures, not only in the Annapurna region but throughout the entire Himalayas. Although it is a brief trek, you'll embark on an amazing Himalayan trekking journey that presents breathtaking views of the mountains.

Mardi Himal Trekking Insights

You might wonder why choose Mardi Himal when there are numerous other splendid trekking opportunities. Here, we present a few essential facts about Mardi Himal Trekking.

Short yet Magnificent Trekking Experience

If you enjoy trekking but prefer a shorter yet beautiful journey, the Mardi Himal trek is definitely worth considering. You will immerse yourself in a fantastic Himalayan trekking experience within just a 5-day itinerary. Whether you seek a short expedition or have limited time for a longer trek, Mardi Himal could be your ideal destination.

We don't recommend this trek solely because of its brevity, but also because it promises an extraordinary adventure.

Exquisite Nature Walk

The trekking route to Mardi Himal winds through enchanting forests. Right from the start of the trek, you will meander through lush and tranquil forests that deliver an exceptional nature walking experience. For three days, you’ll enjoy a picturesque journey through dense woodlands in the lower heights of the path.

While trekking below 3,000 meters above sea level, the surroundings are lush with beautiful forests. However, as you ascend past 3,000 meters, you’ll notice a shift in the vegetation and landscapes. The trail transitions to thickets and grassy pastures. Nonetheless, the path offers stunning natural scenery, making the trek a delightful nature walk.

Unmatched Mountain Views

Typically, shorter treks in the Himalayas are at lower elevations, but Mardi Himal offers a unique experience. Despite the shorter duration of the Mardi Himal trek, it elevates you to significant heights in the Himalayas. Climbing to higher altitudes provides better and unobstructed vistas of the mountains.

During your Mardi Himal trek, you will be rewarded with an incredible view of the Annapurna range. From the third day onward, you can take in a breathtaking panoramic perspective of the mountain peaks within this range.

Remarkable Elevation Gain

The trek culminates at an elevation of 4,500 meters above sea level when you reach the base camp. This results in an elevation increase of about 2,600 meters from the first day to the fourth. Though this elevation gain is significant, it doesn’t feel overwhelming. The realization of how high you've climbed strikes when you gaze down at the Annapurna Base Camp far below from the Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Moderate Trek to Accomplish

This trekking journey is a moderately challenging expedition in the Annapurna region. The first few days of the trek are easier compared to the third and fourth days. The latter days present more challenges as you ascend uphill and gain altitude towards the base camp. However, this trek is relatively easier compared to other long Himalayan treks.

You will relish the experience of soaking in the stunning mountains and trekking despite the difficulties.

Duration

The Annapurna region serves as the destination for this brief trekking adventure. A five-day journey from Pokhara to the area is ideal for trekking. Although some trekkers finish it in fewer days, the best time to complete the trek is within five days.

If you have less than seven days for your trip or are looking for a shorter trek, this experience is a perfect option for you.

A Perfect Alternative to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

If you seek a trekking experience in a quieter area with fewer crowds and an abundance of nature, Mardi is the place to visit. It serves as the excellent alternative to the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in the region. Although you can have a memorable experience on the trek to Ghorepani, it tends to be more crowded with tourists.

Mardi Himal Trek is a fantastic substitute because it offers a more serene trekking experience. The trails in the Mardi region feel less crowded since there are fewer hikers compared to those in Ghorepani.

The highest point at 4,500 meters above sea level is attained when trekking to Mardi Himal. The elevation gain is considerable for a short trek. You begin your journey at around 1,900 meters above sea level and reach 4,500 meters by the fourth day. Mardi Himal provides a fantastic view of the mountains.

Accommodation & Food

Trekkers in the Mardi Himal region find lodging in teahouses, which are basic accommodations. The number of teahouses is increasing alongside the growing number of trekkers in the region. You will find comfortable facilities in the mountains during your trekking adventure in Mardi Himal.

There’s now a diverse range of food options available along the trail due to the increasing number of teahouses and trekkers. Similar to other trekking areas, Dal Bhat remains the most popular dish in Mardi Himal. However, you can also choose your meals from the menu available at the teahouses.

Mardi Himal Trekking Challenge

Even though the trek to the Mardi Himal base camp is short, it presents moderate difficulties. The first two or three days are relatively straightforward as you walk through beautiful forests. Nevertheless, the third and fourth days are more demanding. You will find yourself navigating uphill paths towards the high camp, while also gaining elevation, making the trekking feel quite challenging.

On the other hand, the breathtaking views compensate for the trek's challenges on those days. You will be able to enjoy the unobstructed and remarkable vistas of the mountains within the Annapurna range.

These insights about the Mardi Himal Trek provide a good understanding of what to expect. However, more important than all of these factors is the overall experience you will gain while trekking. You will cherish the journey you undergo throughout the trek.

Feel free to ask if you would like to learn more about the trek.