Forest Camp is a lodge stop set in dense rhododendron forest on the Mardi Himal trek, at about 2,600 m. The route passes through Kande, Australian Camp and Forest Camp on the way up from Pokhara. It is a common first or second night before the ridge opens out higher up.
Altitude: about 2,600 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Forest Camp is and why trekkers stop
Forest Camp lies on the climbing trail above Australian Camp, in the forest section of the Mardi Himal route. The trek begins near Pokhara, passes Kande and Australian Camp, then reaches Forest Camp before continuing to Low Camp. Trekkers stop here because the stage from the road is already a good climb, and sleeping under the trees keeps the first night mild. The place also breaks the long ascent into pieces that most walkers find manageable.
What to expect at Forest Camp
Expect tall rhododendron, moss on the trunks and a trail that stays shaded for much of the day. In spring the flowers can colour the slopes. Views are limited because the canopy is thick, so this is more a stage of walking than of scenery. The route to Low Camp continues upward through the same forest, and wet weather can make steps slippery. Mornings are often damp and cool, and leeches may appear in the monsoon.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 2,600 m, altitude is a mild concern for most trekkers, though the climb itself is tiring. Sleeping altitude rises as you go higher toward Low Camp, so use this night to settle into a steady pace. Headache or poor sleep can still happen. Altitude illness can strike on this trek, and if symptoms worsen you should descend rather than continue. Drink plenty and avoid rushing the first day or two.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges at Forest Camp are simple, with basic rooms, shared bathrooms and menus built on dal bhat, noodles and soup. Bring layers, since forest evenings can feel cold and damp, and pack a rain cover in wet months. Mobile signal is patchy. Ask your lodge about the next stage before leaving, and start early to give yourself margin if weather turns. Carry cash because card payment is not available on the trail.
Stage guides that pass through Forest Camp
These day-by-day guides start or end at Forest Camp, with walking times, ascent and where to sleep.
- Pokhara to Forest Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Kande to Forest Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Forest Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Forest Camp to High Camp trek: stages, altitude and time
- Forest Camp to Low Camp trek: altitude, time and route
- Forest Camp to Badal Danda trek: stages, altitude and time
- Australian Camp to Forest Camp trek: altitude, time and route
Common questions
What is Forest Camp on the Mardi Himal trek?
Forest Camp is a lodge stop set in dense rhododendron forest. It lies between Australian Camp and Low Camp, and many trekkers pass through or sleep there on the way up from Pokhara.
What comes after Forest Camp?
The next common stop is Low Camp, higher on the ridge, where the forest thins and views to the north begin to open. From there the route goes on to Badal Danda, High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Is Forest Camp a good place to stay overnight?
Yes. It is a quiet forest stop, and sleeping here keeps the next day shorter. Facilities are simple, so carry warm layers and cash, and expect damp conditions in the monsoon.
