A compact 10-day trek from Pokhara that climbs through Gurung villages, rhododendron forests, and high ridgelines to Mardi Himal Base Camp (≈4,500 m). Expect steep sections, teahouse nights, and panoramic views of Annapurna and Machapuchare.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold dawn unrolls over the Annapurna massif as you step off a jeep at Kande and shoulder your pack. The trail climbs through terraced farms and rhododendron forests, the air thinning as village roofs shrink below and Fishtail’s jagged silhouette grows sharper. Mardi Himal’s approach is a steady negotiation of ridgelines — forested, then heathered, then wind-scoured — until the high camp exposes the raw, glaciated buttress of the Annapurna range.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
10 days
Fitness Level
Best for hikers with good aerobic fitness and experience on multi-day ascents; able to carry a daypack and walk 5–7 hours daily.
Wildlife
History
The trail passes long-inhabited Gurung and Magar communities that have traded, farmed, and shepherded these slopes for centuries; the Annapurna Conservation Area was established to protect both biodiversity and local livelihoods.
Conservation
Permits fund conservation and local communities; stick to marked trails, pack out plastic where possible, and use teahouse water treatment or boil to reduce single-use bottles.
Reserve your spot on the 10 Days Trekking to Mardi Himal today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize sensibly
Schedule slow ascent days and avoid rapid elevation gain above 3,000 m to reduce altitude sickness risk; stay hydrated and listen to your body.
Footwear and traction
Use broken-in, ankle-supporting boots and consider microspikes in late fall or early spring for icy sections.
Cash and comforts
Carry Nepali rupees for teahouse meals, hot drinks, and small supplies — ATMs are only reliably available in Pokhara.
Start early on summit pushes
Begin pre-dawn for the base-camp viewpoint to avoid afternoon winds and unstable weather that can reduce visibility.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for steep, rocky and sometimes slippery trail sections.
Insulated down jacket
Keeps you warm during cold nights and windy summit mornings.
winter
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and provide balance on narrow ridges.
Sleeping bag (-10°C rated)
Teahouse rooms can be cold at 3,000–4,000 m; a warm bag ensures restful nights.