The Mardi Himal trek climbs a long forested ridge north of Pokhara to a high viewpoint almost at the foot of Machhapuchhre, the fishtail peak. It was only opened to trekkers in the last few decades, and it remains much quieter than Annapurna Base Camp, although it is growing in popularity. Most itineraries run for five to seven days. The plan below is a six-day shape that leaves room for the weather. Altitudes are approximate, and times depend on pace and conditions.
Day 1: Pokhara to Kande and the first climb
You drive from Pokhara to Kande, a roadhead at about 1,770 m, in around one to one and a half hours. From here you walk up through terraced fields and forest to Australian Camp and onwards to Pothana or Deurali, depending on your pace. The first day is moderate, with a steady climb and good views of the Annapurna range if the morning is clear.
Day 2: Forest Camp and Low Camp
From Deurali the trail climbs through thick rhododendron and oak forest to Forest Camp at about 2,600 m, then onwards to Low Camp at about 3,050 m. The woods are mossy and quiet, and in spring the rhododendron blooms are spectacular. Lodges at Forest Camp and Low Camp are simple but welcoming, and the evening air is cold.
Day 3: High Camp
Above Low Camp the forest thins into open ridge and alpine meadow. The trail is exposed to wind but rewards you with growing views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna South massif. High Camp sits at about 3,550 m and is the usual overnight stop. Arrive early in the afternoon, rest and enjoy a clear sunset if the sky allows.
Day 4: View Point and return to High Camp or Low Camp
Leave before dawn for the View Point at about 4,200 m, a climb of three to four hours up a steep ridge. The reward is sunrise on Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Strong trekkers sometimes continue toward Mardi Himal Base Camp at about 4,500 m, but this adds time and exposure. Return to High Camp or descend all the way to Low Camp, depending on weather and energy.
Days 5 and 6: Descent and return
Descend through Forest Camp and Deurali. You can exit via Siding for a different route or return to Kande by the way you came. The drive back to Pokhara follows. Keep a spare day in the plan in case of cloud, rain or a slow descent.
Useful variations
- A five-day version cuts the rest and goes straight from High Camp to Siding on day 4.
- A seven-day version adds a night at High Camp or a gentler pace.
- Many trekkers combine Mardi Himal with Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp.
Booking advice
Ask where you sleep each night and which lodge. Simple lodges at High Camp can fill in peak season. A guide helps secure rooms and manage weather decisions.
The feel of the ridge
Unlike valley treks, Mardi Himal follows a long ridgeline. For the first day and a half you walk inside forest, with limited views and plenty of birds. Then the trees thin, and from Low Camp onwards you are on an open crest with views on both sides. At High Camp you look down on clouds, and on clear days the fishtail of Machhapuchhre seems close enough to touch. The scale and silence are what trekkers remember.
How to pace each day
Start early to enjoy the clearest weather and avoid afternoon cloud. Walk steadily without trying to overtake. In the forest take regular rests to drink water, and on the ridge move slowly to adjust to the wind and altitude. Arrive at your lodge by early afternoon, so that you can rest and stay warm.
Adapting if the weather turns
- If cloud covers the view at High Camp, wait a morning and try again.
- If snow falls heavily, stay put until your guide says it is safe.
- If someone feels unwell, descend rather than push on.
- If a landslide blocks the route, use the alternative exit via Siding.
What to do on a rest day
A rest day at High Camp is spent reading, writing, watching the changing light and chatting with other trekkers. A short walk along the ridge helps acclimatisation. Keep drinking water and eating well.
