Mardi Himal Trek 8 Days: Annapurna Views & Hidden Trails

Summary

Quiet Mardi Himal Trekking Route with Annapurna Scenery

If you’re after real Himalayan adventure without crowds, this Mardi Himal trek is it—quiet trails, big mountain views, friendly locals, and plenty of time to soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

Landing in Kathmandu always gives me a jolt—the city’s alive with color and noise, especially around Thamel. I remember weaving through tiny alleys, dodging motorbikes and stopping for a quick masala tea at a street stall. The air had that mix of incense and dust you only get in Nepal. That first night, I barely slept from excitement, double-checking my gear for the trek ahead.

The next morning, we piled onto a tourist bus just as the sun was coming up. The ride to Pokhara took most of the day, winding along the Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers. At one point, our driver slowed so we could watch kids splashing in the water below. By evening, we were strolling Lakeside in Pokhara—shops selling yak wool hats, cafés with Bob Marley posters, and that cool breeze off Phewa Lake.

After breakfast, it was a short drive to Kande where our real adventure started. The trail climbed gently through Australian Camp and Pothana—tiny villages with tin-roofed tea houses and prayer flags flapping overhead. Every so often, Machhapuchhre (locals call it Fishtail) peeked out from behind clouds. Our guide, Suman, pointed out wild orchids growing by the path—easy to miss if you’re not looking.

The walk from Deurali to Forest Camp felt almost secret; hardly anyone else around except for birds calling from deep inside the rhododendron forests. The smell of damp earth was everywhere after a brief morning rain shower. We stopped for lunch at a small teahouse where an old woman served us dal bhat with extra chili on request.

Climbing higher toward High Camp meant leaving trees behind for open hillsides dotted with scruffy yaks. The air got thinner but clearer too—you could see all the way across to Annapurna South and Hiunchuli on a good day. Nights up here were cold; I remember huddling by the stove with other trekkers swapping stories about leeches and lost socks.

The highlight? Waking before dawn for the push to Mardi Himal Viewpoint. It’s quiet except for boots crunching on frost-hardened grass. When we reached the top just as sunlight hit Machhapuchhre’s summit—it looked close enough to touch—I felt like I’d stumbled into another world entirely. After snapping photos (and catching my breath), we headed back down for breakfast—hot tea never tasted better.

The last stretch down to Siding Village passed through tiny farms where kids waved at us from doorways. Back in Pokhara that evening, it felt strange to be surrounded by traffic again instead of mountain silence. Still, nothing beats that first hot shower after days on dusty trails.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Explore Kathmandu

• Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel
• Explore Thamel streets

Day 2 — Drive to Pokhara and Lakeside Walk

• Scenic drive to Pokhara
• Evening walk along Lakeside

Day 3 — Drive to Kande and Trek to Deurali

• Drive to Kande
• Trek through Australian Camp and Pothana

Day 4 — Trek to Forest Camp

• Trek through rhododendron forests

Day 5 — Trek to High Camp

• Ascend to High Camp with mountain views

Day 6 — Hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint

• Hike to viewpoint and return to High Camp

Day 7 — Trek to Siding Village and Drive to Pokhara

• Descend to Siding Village
• Drive back to Pokhara
• Relax at Lakeside

Day 8 — Return to Kathmandu

• Bus drive to Kathmandu
• Transfer to hotel

Top questions

How difficult is the Mardi Himal trek?

The route is moderate; you’ll need decent fitness but no technical climbing experience. Expect some long uphill sections but plenty of breaks along the way.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?

You’ll stay in simple teahouses run by local families—basic rooms but warm hospitality and hearty meals every night.

Is this trek suitable for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Many people join groups or meet fellow trekkers along the way—it’s easy to make friends on these trails.

When is the best time to go?

Spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures; avoid monsoon season if possible.

What’s included

Your trip covers hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara, all teahouse accommodation during trekking days, guided support throughout, transport between cities and trailheads, plus most meals while trekking. Local guides are there every step if you need help or have questions about Nepali culture or nature.