About this experience
Annapurna Base Camp gets the traffic. Mardi Himal gets the same mountain scale with a fraction of the trekkers, which is the real reason people choose this route over its more famous neighbor.
You climb through genuinely quiet rhododendron forest to Kande, then above the treeline into ridge walking with Machapuchare and Annapurna South close enough that the scale stops feeling abstract. High Camp is the last stop before an early push to Base Camp, timed so you are up there while the light is still good.
The descent runs a different route, through forest paths down to Siding village, before the drive back to Pokhara.
Five days is short for a Himalayan trek, but the elevation gain is gradual enough that acclimatization is not an afterthought. This is a genuinely good fit for a first Himalayan trek: real altitude, real views, without ABC or EBC's two-week commitment.
At a glance
- Duration: 120 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 120 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Government taxes and Service Charge
- All Local meals (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) while on trek & Teahouse accommodation on twin sharing
- Vehicle from Pokhara → Kande and Siding → Pokhara
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Not included
- Tips for Guide
- Additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extra nights, meals, or activities)
- Any kinds of drinks (tea/coffee/water/soft drink/alcohol) Hot shower, Internet etc
- Porter serivces ,Tips , Hotel and meals in Pokhara and Kathmandu
Itinerary and highlights
Day 01: Pokhara to Kande Drive and Trek to Forest Camp
Depart from Pokhara and drive to Kande (1,770m). Start the trek through forest trails and ridges to Forest Camp (2,520m). Trek duration is approximately 5–6 hours.
Day 02: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp via Scenic Ridges
Begin from Forest Camp and trek above the tree line along scenic ridges to High Camp (3,580m). Enjoy expanding mountain views along the way. Trek duration is approximately 5–6 hours.
Day 03: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and Return to High Camp
Set out early from High Camp and hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) with close views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna range, then return to High Camp. Trek duration is approximately 6–7 hours.
Day 04: Descend from High Camp to Low Camp
Descend from High Camp through ridge and forest trails to Low Camp (2,970m). Trek duration is approximately 5–6 hours.
Day 05: Trek to Siding and Drive Back to Pokhara
Trek from Low Camp down to Siding (822m) through forests and local villages, then drive back to Pokhara, marking the end of the trek. Trek duration is approximately 4–5 hours.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- After booking your trip, please contact us on WhatsApp and share your hotel name and address in Lakeside, Pokhara. We will arrange pickup before the trek and drop-off after the trip for your convenience.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Mountain Hike Nepal
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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