Mardi Himal trek was accessed only by limited trekking groups with tents and catering team for a long time. The trek follows beaten trails of shepherds as it still provides summer grazing. The trek was officially opened in 2012 and is still pristine. There are limited teahouses with basic facilities. This is a short relatively easy and unspoiled trek not far from Pokhara. Yet it is highly diverse with cultural insight, beautiful forest walks, and alpine landscape.

The trail goes along small winding paths, through magical rhododendron forests until you climb out of the forest at an elevation of around 3,300 m. The landscape changes quite abruptly into a rugged high mountain landscape, with amazing views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. From High Camp (3580 m; some maps incorrectly mention 3900 m) you can climb up to Mardi Himal Base Camp in about 3-4 hours, which offers spectacular close up views of the entire Annapurna Range.

Mardi Himal Trek also displays cultural melting point of Hinduism and Buddhism. This trek offers picturesque villages inhabited by friendly, simple and ethnic groups like Brahmins, Chhetris and Gurungs who reflect their cultural uniqueness in the exquisite nature of the Himalayas. There are simple guesthouses and homestay along the entire route. If you plan to do these treks in the winter months please check with a local tour operator if the lodges are open.

Best time to visit

June - Mid September: this is Monsoon season and the least popular time to go trekking in Nepal. The risk of leeches, downpours increases greatly. Due to the early forested areas leeches at this time of year in Mardi Himal are quite active! Wear long trekking trousers tucked in at this time of year.