Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek 9 Days | Annapurna Trekking Nepal

Summary

Guided Mardi Himal Trek: Annapurna Views & Gurung Culture

If you want mountain views without crowds or technical climbs, this trek is for you. You’ll hike quiet trails through forests and villages, meet friendly locals, and stand face-to-face with some of Nepal’s most famous peaks—all in just over a week.

What’s the experience like?

Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, the first thing that hit me was the mix of incense and city dust in the air. Kathmandu’s rhythm is something else—motorbikes weaving past prayer wheels, shopkeepers calling out from tiny stalls in Thamel. Our group met up that evening over sweet masala tea, swapping stories and a bit of nervous laughter about what lay ahead. The hotel was simple but comfortable, with just enough city noise to remind you you’re somewhere new.

The drive to Pokhara took most of the day—about seven hours if you count the stops for chai and bathroom breaks at roadside cafés. The scenery kept changing: rice terraces, little villages where kids waved as we passed, then finally the first glimpse of snow-capped peaks behind Pokhara’s rooftops. That night, I wandered down Lakeside Road; there’s a spot called Moondance Café where trekkers gather for dal bhat and local beer. You can feel everyone’s anticipation for the trail ahead.

We set off early from Pokhara to Kande by van—windows open, cool air carrying hints of pine and woodsmoke. The trek started gently enough, winding up through forests alive with birdsong. By midday, sweat trickled down my back as we climbed toward Pitam Deurali. Our guide, Suman, pointed out Machhapuchhre peeking through clouds—a sharp white triangle against blue sky. At the tea house that night, I could hear distant bells from grazing yaks and someone frying garlic in the kitchen below.

The next stretch to Forest Camp (locals call it Kokar) felt quieter—just our boots crunching leaves and an occasional squirrel darting across the path. Rhododendrons arched overhead; in spring they’d be bright red but now just green tunnels. We stopped for lunch at a clearing where you could see Annapurna South if you squinted past drifting mist. Forest Camp itself is basic: wooden beds, thick blankets, and mugs of hot lemon ginger tea that warmed my hands after a chilly afternoon.

Climbing higher toward High Camp was tough—the air thinner, steps steeper. My breath came out in little clouds even though it wasn’t freezing yet. Trees gave way to scrubby bamboo and juniper; sometimes you’d spot a Himalayan pheasant darting into the brush. Suman kept us moving slow so we’d adjust to the altitude. At High Camp (3,600m), I remember sitting outside as dusk fell—everything quiet except for wind rattling prayer flags strung between lodges.

The push to Mardi Himal Base Camp started before sunrise. Headlamps bobbed along the narrow ridge; my fingers tingled from cold despite gloves. As dawn broke, pink light spilled over Machhapuchhre right in front of us—it looked close enough to touch. The last stretch was rocky and slow-going but reaching base camp (4,450m) felt unreal. We snapped photos with Annapurna South looming huge above us before heading back down to Badal Danda for hot soup and rest.

The descent to Siding village was all downhill—knees aching but spirits high. Passing through terraced fields dotted with buffaloes and small houses painted turquoise or yellow, we were greeted by kids shouting “Namaste!” In Siding, we shared a meal with a local Gurung family—simple lentils and greens but honestly some of the best food I’ve had after days on trail. Then it was back to Pokhara by jeep; showers never felt so good.

The last day’s drive to Kathmandu was long but gave time to watch river valleys slip by outside the window. Back in Thamel that night, our group met up one last time for momo dumplings at a busy corner place—everyone tired but grinning wide. Nepal has a way of sticking with you long after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Kathmandu

• Your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
• Transfer to hotel and meet trek members

Day 2 — Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (6-7 hours)
• Check into hotel and explore Pokhara

Day 3 — Drive to Kande and Trek to Pitam Deurali

• Drive Pokhara to Kande (1.5 hours)
• Trek from Kande to Pitam Deurali (3-4 hours)

Day 4 — Trek to Forest Camp at Kokar

• Trek from Pitam Deurali to Forest Camp (5-6 hours)

Day 5 — Trek to High Camp

• Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (5-6 hours)

Day 6 — Excursion to Mardi Himal Base Camp

• Trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (3-4 hours)
• Return to Badal Danda

Day 7 — Trek to Siding and Drive to Pokhara

• Trek from Badal Danda to Siding (4-5 hours)
• Drive to Pokhara

Day 8 — Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu

• Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (7-8 hours)

Day 9 — Departure to Airport

• Transfer to airport for departure

Top questions

How difficult is the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek?

This trek is considered moderate—you’ll need decent fitness since there are some steep sections and altitude gains each day. No technical climbing skills are required though.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?

You’ll stay in basic tea houses along the trail—shared rooms with simple beds and blankets. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, hotels are more comfortable with private bathrooms.

Is vegetarian food available during the trek?

Yes! Most tea houses offer vegetarian options like dal bhat (lentil rice), noodles, or vegetable curries. Just let your guide know your dietary needs when booking.

Do I need special permits?

Yes—you’ll need both an ACAP permit and TIMS card for this region. These are arranged for you as part of your booking; no extra hassle on your end.

What’s included

Your trip covers airport transfers; experienced local guides; all trekking permits; meals during trekking; twin-share rooms in tea houses; hotel stays in Kathmandu & Pokhara; private transport between trailheads; medical kit access; plus a farewell dinner with cultural show before departure.