A compact Annapurna trek that climbs from forested foothills to a high alpine viewpoint. Expect steep, rapid-elevation days, teahouse hospitality in Siding, and a clear panorama of Mardi Himal and the Annapurna massif.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the dusty jeep at Kande and the forest swallows the road—moss-dark trunks, rhododendron shoulders, and a trail that climbs like a breathing thing. The first day’s walks thread through village terraces toward Australian Camp; each bend teases the massif of Machhapuchhre until the mountains finally reveal themselves in full at High Camp. At dawn, the Upper View Point offers a blistering panorama: Mardi Himal (5,553m) sits close and crystalline while Annapurna’s giants line the horizon.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9–10 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness; comfortable walking 4–6 hours per day and able to handle sustained uphill sections and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
The trail passes through traditional Gurung settlements; the Annapurna region has long been a crossroads for trans-Himalayan trade and mountain agriculture.
Conservation
The Annapurna Conservation Area manages permits and promotes responsible trekking; avoid single-use plastics, pack out waste when possible, and stick to established trails to limit erosion.
Reserve your spot on the Mardi Himal Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize, don’t rush
Schedule slow ascents and at least one night above 3,000 m before pushing to the Upper View Point to reduce altitude risk.
Carry cash
ATMs are in Pokhara only; bring Nepali rupees for teahouses, tips, and simple purchases in villages.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good grip handle steep, muddy switchbacks and occasional snowy patches.
Water treatment
Bring a filter or purification tablets—refill from village taps or streams after treating; bottled water is available but adds waste.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction on steep, sometimes muddy trails and rocky high camp sections.
Insulated down jacket
Nights at High Camp and the Upper View Point can be near or below freezing; a warm layer is vital.
fall
Trekking poles
Reduce strain on knees during long descents and help balance on loose scree.
Headlamp with extra batteries
Useful for early starts, campsite tasks, and power outages in teahouses.