Mardi Himal Trek for Beginners Complete Guide

The Mardi Himal trek has rapidly become one of Nepal most popular shorter treks, combining high altitude with manageable daily distances and a recently developed teahouse network.

Overview

The route typically runs 5-7 days from Pokhara: Kande–Forest Camp–Low Camp–High Camp (3,580m)–Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m)–Siding–Pokhara. Maximum altitude is 4,500m at the viewpoint just below the glacier. Machhapuchhre (6,993m) appears impossibly close from the upper ridge, and Annapurna South fills the western skyline. Because all stages are short and the trail well-signed, Mardi Himal is genuinely beginner-friendly. Use Sajilo to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara and arrive fresh the night before you hit the trail.

Getting There

From Pokhara, hire a taxi to Kande (45 minutes, NPR 1,500) or take a local bus from the Baglung bus park. The trailhead at Kande sits at 1,770m.

Key Highlights

The ridge walk from Low Camp to High Camp is open moorland with unobstructed 270-degree mountain views. At High Camp (3,580m) on clear mornings, the Annapurna massif appears close enough to touch. The descent via Siding village passes through farmland entirely different from the forest on the ascent.

Tips

• Trekking poles are highly recommended for the steep descent to Siding.
• Book High Camp teahouses in advance during October-November peak season.
• ACAP permit (NPR 3,000) required — buy in Pokhara before departure.
• Maximum group size is better off staying two nights at High Camp for a proper summit push.

FAQ

How many days do I need? Five days is the minimum; seven days allows acclimatisation and a rest day at High Camp.

What altitude does the trek reach? The viewpoint near Mardi Himal Base Camp is at approximately 4,500m.

Is the trek suitable for someone who has never trekked before? Yes, provided you are physically active. No technical skills are needed.