Sidhing, also written Siding, is a lower village on the Mardi Himal trek in the Pokhara region of Nepal. It is at about 1,750 m and is often used as the finishing point on the way down from Mardi Himal Base Camp or High Camp. The descent into village life is a gentle end to the trek.
Altitude: about 1,750 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Sidhing is and why trekkers stop
Sidhing lies on the lower eastern side of the Mardi Himal route, well below the ridge camps. Trekkers who come down from High Camp or Mardi Himal Base Camp often head here to finish, then take a vehicle toward Pokhara. It is also a way to make the trek a loop rather than retracing the same trail. Many people choose it because the walk down is steady and the scenery changes to farmland.
What to expect at Sidhing
Expect terraced fields, village houses and a quieter pace than the ridge. Paths pass through forest, then farmland, and the air feels warmer with every step down. The final days of descent can be hard on the knees, so poles are useful. Local life is easy to see here, and tea shops and small lodges appear along the way. The exact details of onward transport vary, so ask your agency in advance.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 1,750 m, altitude is no longer a concern for most trekkers, and sleep and appetite usually return quickly. If you came down from the ridge feeling unwell, the lower height is the right remedy. Altitude illness is a risk higher up on the trek, and if symptoms worsen at any point, descent is the safest response. Here, simply rest, drink water and let your legs recover from the long downhill.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodging in the village is simple, with basic rooms and teahouse food such as dal bhat, noodles and soup. Mobile signal is better than on the ridge, and you may be able to charge devices more easily. Carry cash, since small village businesses may not take cards. Arrange onward transport ahead of time with your agency, as roads vary with season and conditions. Keep your shoes dry, because the lower trail can be muddy after rain.
Common questions
Is Sidhing the same as Siding?
Both spellings are used for the village on the lower Mardi Himal route. It appears as Siding in some route names, and it is a common place to finish the trek after the ridge.
Why finish the Mardi Himal trek at Sidhing?
Finishing here lets you make the trek a loop rather than retracing the same trail, and the descent passes forest and farmland. The walk down is steady, but it can be hard on the knees.
Is altitude a problem at Sidhing?
No, at about 1,750 m altitude is rarely an issue. If you came down feeling unwell from the ridge, the lower height should help, and you should seek medical advice if symptoms continue.
