There’s a trek not far from Pokhara that most people have never heard of — and that’s exactly what makes it special. The Mardi Himal trek climbs through quiet forests, past scattered settlements, and up to a ridge with views that rival the big-name treks, without the crowds.
I first discovered Mardi Himal on a rest day years ago, when a fellow guide told me about a “secret ridge” above the Annapurna Sanctuary. I went to check it out and ended up staying for three days. The trail was quiet, the teahouses were run by families who’d never seen a crowd, and the view from High Camp stretched across the entire Annapurna range — Machhapuchhre so close you could almost touch it.
Quick Facts
| Duration | 5–7 days |
| Max Altitude | 4,500m / 14,760ft (Mardi Himal Base Camp) |
| Difficulty | Moderate — steep in sections but short days |
| Best Season | March–May and October–November |
| Starting Point | Pokhara (drive to Kande or Phedi) |
| Accommodation | Teahouses to High Camp, basic lodges above |
Why Mardi Himal?
Mardi Himal is the trek I recommend to people who want something off the beaten path without sacrificing scenery. You get the same jaw-dropping mountain views as the Annapurna Base Camp trek — Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli — but with a fraction of the foot traffic. The trail is quieter, the teahouses are more personal, and the sense of discovery is real.
It’s also one of the most accessible treks from Pokhara. A short drive gets you to the trailhead, and the whole trek can be done in under a week. Perfect for travellers who want a genuine Himalayan experience without the time commitment of a longer route.
What to Expect on the Trail
The Mardi Himal trek follows a relatively new route that’s been gaining popularity in recent years. The trail climbs through dense rhododendron and oak forest, then opens onto alpine meadows and finally a rocky ridge at 4,500m. The vegetation changes are dramatic — you’ll walk from subtropical forest to high-altitude desert in just a few days.
High Camp (3,580m) is the highlight for most trekkers — a cluster of basic lodges perched on a ridge with views down the valley to Pokhara and up to the Annapurna range. The sunrise from the ridge above camp is one of the best in Nepal, without the crowds of Poon Hill.
Best Time to Trek
Like most treks in the Annapurna region, the best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November). Spring brings rhododendrons in bloom and warmer temperatures; autumn offers the clearest skies. The trail is doable in winter but expect cold nights at High Camp. Monsoon season (June–September) brings clouds and leeches in the lower forest sections.
Difficulty & Preparation
This is a moderate trek. The trail is well-defined but steep in places — you’ll gain significant elevation each day. No technical climbing is required, and the short duration means you can manage with a good base level of fitness. The main challenge is the altitude: High Camp sits at 3,580m and the ridge viewpoint reaches 4,500m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mardi Himal a new trek?
Relatively new — it’s been open to trekkers for about a decade, but it’s still much quieter than the classic Annapurna routes. The trail is well-established now with good teahouses along the way.
How does Mardi Himal compare to ABC?
Mardi Himal is shorter, quieter, and reaches a higher viewpoint (4,500m vs 4,130m). But ABC is more dramatic — you sleep right inside the Sanctuary. Both are excellent. If you have time, do both.
Do I need a guide?
The trail is reasonably well-marked, but a guide adds so much to the experience — local knowledge, cultural context, and safety at altitude. We recommend it, especially if you’re new to trekking in Nepal.
Where does the trek start from?
From Pokhara, you drive to Kande or Phedi (about 1 hour). The trek then climbs through forest villages to High Camp and the ridge viewpoint.
Ready to discover Mardi Himal?
Small groups, local women-led guides, and itineraries built from years on the ground. Message Vivi and we’ll plan it with you.
Author: Vivi
Co-founder and lead guide at 8 Mountains. Mardi Himal is my secret favourite — the trail I recommend when someone asks for something different.
