Follow quiet forest trails and ridge lines to Mardi Himal Base Camp, where breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range dominate the horizon
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is one of the best short treks in Nepal, offering spectacular mountain scenery and an unforgettable Himalayan experience in just over a week. Located in the Annapurna region, this gem of a trek, follows quiet forest trails and scenic ridge lines to the foot of Mardi Himal (5,587m), providing breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I, Gangapurna and the surrounding peaks.
The route passes through ancient rhododendron and juniper forests, traditional mountain settlements and high alpine landscapes before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,450 metres. Along the way, dramatic mountain panoramas become increasingly impressive as the trail emerges above the tree line onto the spectacular Mardi Ridge.
The highlight of the trek is the ascent from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp, where some of the finest close-up views in the Annapurna region await. Perfect for those with limited time, first-time trekkers and experienced hikers alike, the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek delivers an outstanding combination of Himalayan scenery, accessibility and adventure.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara (20 mins), drive to Khande (45 mins) and trek to Pitam Deurali (2,100m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 3: Trek from Pitam Deurali to Forest Camp (2,500m), approx. 7 hours.
Day 4: Trek from Forest Camp to Badal Danda (2,970m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Badal Danda to High Camp (3,580m), approx. 4 hours.
Day 6: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,450m) and return to High Camp, approx. 8 hours.
Day 7: Trek from High Camp to Siding Village (1,885m), approx. 7-8 hours.
Day 8: Drive from Siding Village to Pokhara, approx. 3 hours.
Day 9: Fly (20 mins) or drive (6-7 hours) from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
Day 10: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to relax and recover from your journey, you will attend a detailed trek briefing with your guide. This is an opportunity to discuss the itinerary, check equipment and complete any last-minute preparations before heading into the Himalayas.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Khande and Trek to Pitam Deurali (2,100m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
Take a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara before transferring by private vehicle to Khande, the starting point of the trek. The trail climbs steadily through forest and traditional villages before reaching Australian Camp, where magnificent views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre can often be enjoyed. After lunch, continue along a pleasant ridgeline to Pitam Deurali.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 3: Trek from Pitam Deurali to Forest Camp (2,500m) | Approx. 7 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route follows a steady ascent through dense rhododendron and oak forests. The trail is peaceful and far less crowded than many other trekking routes in the Annapurna region. Throughout the day there are occasional openings in the forest revealing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Wildlife is abundant in this area and lucky trekkers may spot monkeys, deer and a variety of Himalayan bird species.
Overnight in a teahouse at Forest Camp.
Day 4: Trek from Forest Camp to Badal Danda (2,970m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
Continue climbing through beautiful rhododendron and juniper forests as the scenery gradually changes with increasing altitude. As you emerge from the forest near Badal Danda, breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre begin to dominate the landscape. The name Badal Danda translates as “Cloud Hill”, and on clear days the mountain panorama is truly unforgettable.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 5: Trek from Badal Danda to High Camp (3,580m) | Approx. 4 Hours (B L D)
The trail follows a spectacular ridgeline with uninterrupted views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. As you climb higher, the landscape becomes increasingly alpine and rugged. Along the route, enjoy excellent views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tare Kang and Khangsar. Arriving at High Camp by lunchtime allows plenty of time to relax and enjoy the remarkable scenery.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 6: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,450m) and Return to High Camp | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
An early start provides the opportunity to witness sunrise over the Annapurna Himalaya. After breakfast, begin the ascent towards Mardi Himal Base Camp along a narrow ridgeline trail through rugged alpine terrain. Although challenging in places, the effort is rewarded with some of the finest mountain views in Nepal.
From Mardi Himal Base Camp, enjoy close-up views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tare Kang, Khangsar and the iconic Machhapuchhre. After spending time enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, descend carefully back to High Camp.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 7: Trek from High Camp to Siding Village (1,885m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Retrace your steps down to Low Camp before leaving the main ridge and descending southeast through dense forest towards Mardi Khola. The trail passes through peaceful woodland and traditional farming settlements before reaching the welcoming village of Siding. This less-visited village provides an excellent opportunity to experience authentic rural life in the Annapurna foothills.
Overnight in a teahouse.
Day 8: Drive from Siding Village to Pokhara - Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
After breakfast, transfer by vehicle from Siding Village back to Pokhara. The drive passes through beautiful countryside, terraced fields and traditional villages before arriving in Nepal’s lakeside city. The remainder of the day is free to relax beside Phewa Lake, enjoy Pokhara’s cafés and restaurants, or explore the vibrant lakeside area.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 9: Fly or Drive to Kathmandu (B)
Today you return to Kathmandu either by a short scenic flight or by road through the hills and river valleys of central Nepal.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, trail conditions, flight schedules or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- 1 night accommodation in Pokhara: post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | |||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments | |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred | |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) | |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor | |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater | |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | ||
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications | |
| Sunglasses | 1 | ||
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. | |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries | |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact | |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | ||
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean | |
| Sun hat | 1 | ||
| Warm hat | 1 | ||
| Gloves | 1 | ||
| Trekking poles | Optional | ||
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | ||
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | ||
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | |||
| Book/journal | |||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment | |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | |||
| Compression socks | 1 |
| |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | ||
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FAQs for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
9 Days
Everest Region
Easy/Moderate
