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The complete Mardi Himal trek guide for 2026 — itinerary, cost, difficulty, and why this quiet high-camp trek under Machhapuchhre is one of Nepal's best-kept secrets. A superb shorter alternative to ABC.
- Mardi Himal is a newer, less-crowded Annapurna-region route climbing a forested ridge to a high camp beneath Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993m).
- It's short — typically 5–7 days — and reaches an Upper Viewpoint at 4,500m; no flight, you drive from Pokhara.
- A budget trek costs roughly $450–600 per person (2-person group); comfort-level $700–950.
- Graded moderate and good for fit beginners, with the dawn viewpoint push the most demanding part.
The Annapurna region's hidden gem
The Mardi Himal trek is a relatively new, less-crowded route that climbs a forested ridge to a spectacular high camp directly beneath Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993m) and the Annapurna range. Shorter and quieter than Annapurna Base Camp, it's become a favourite for trekkers wanting big mountains without the crowds.
Mardi Himal at a glance
Duration: 5–7 days · Max altitude: 4,500m (Upper Viewpoint) · Difficulty: Moderate · Start: Pokhara (drive to Kande/Phedi) · Best seasons: Oct–Nov, Mar–Apr · Permits: ACAP + TIMS · Accommodation: Teahouses.
The itinerary
From Pokhara, drive to Kande and climb through beautiful rhododendron and oak forest to Forest Camp, then Low Camp and High Camp (3,580m), with the ridge opening to ever-bigger mountain views. The climax is the dawn climb to the Upper Viewpoint (4,500m) for a head-on panorama of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, before descending back to Pokhara. A typical trek is 5 days; 7 with a gentler pace.
How much does it cost?
A budget Mardi Himal trek costs roughly $450–600 per person (2-person group) including guide, permits, and teahouses; comfort-level $700–950. No flight needed — you drive from Pokhara. See our Nepal trekking cost guide for the full breakdown.
The final climb from High Camp to the Upper Viewpoint (4,500m) is the most demanding part of the trek. Set off before dawn to reach the head-on panorama of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli before cloud builds.
How hard is it?
Graded moderate. The forested ridge climb is steady rather than brutal, and at 4,500m the altitude is manageable with the gradual ascent. The final viewpoint push is the most demanding part. Good for fit beginners with a few weeks of preparation.
Why choose Mardi Himal
Fewer crowds than ABC or Poon Hill, a stunning ridge-top high camp, intimate close-up views of Machhapuchhre, beautiful forest, and a short timeframe that fits easily into a trip. It can even be combined with Poon Hill for a fuller Annapurna foothills experience. Compare it with the Annapurna Base Camp trek or browse the best treks in Nepal.
Best time
October–November for the clearest views and March–April for blooming rhododendrons. Winter is cold but doable lower down; the monsoon brings cloud and leeches.
Mardi Himal packs a high-camp experience and head-on Fishtail views into under a week, with no internal flight. It's one of the best options for trekkers short on time who still want dramatic Annapurna scenery away from the crowds.
The bottom line
For trekkers wanting dramatic Annapurna scenery, a high-camp experience, and far fewer people — in under a week — Mardi Himal is one of Nepal's best choices. A genuine hidden gem. Contact us to plan your departure.
How much does the Mardi Himal trek cost?
A budget trek costs roughly $450–600 per person in a 2-person group, including guide, permits, and teahouses. Comfort-level trips run about $700–950. No internal flight is needed — you drive from Pokhara, which keeps costs down.
How many days do you need for Mardi Himal?
A typical trek is 5 days, or 7 at a gentler pace. The short timeframe — and the fact it needs no flight — makes it easy to fit into a wider Nepal trip, and it can be combined with Poon Hill for a fuller Annapurna foothills experience.
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