Mardi Himal Trek

Distance: ~6 km

Walking Time: 3–4 hours

Altitude: 2,100m The journey begins with a scenic 1-hour drive from Pokhara to Kande. From Kande, the trail ascends immediately. The first hour is a steady climb on stone stairs to Australian Camp, a famous viewpoint where you can see the entire Annapurna range while sipping your first mountain tea. After a relatively flat walk through the woods to Pothana, where you’ll register your permits, you continue a gradual climb to Pitam Deurali. This day is designed to "wake up" your legs. The forest here is lush, and the air is noticeably fresher than in the city. You’ll spend the night in a cozy teahouse, watching the sunset over the Dhaulagiri range in the distance.

Distance: ~8 km

Walking Time: 5–6 hours

Altitude: 2,520m After breakfast, you leave the main trekking highway behind. The trail from Deurali enters a dense, quiet forest of oak, maple, and rhododendron. This is the most "wild" part of the trek; it’s peaceful, and you’ll likely hear more birds than humans. The path is a mix of gradual inclines and some steep sections over tree roots. Because this is a 7-day trek, you aren't rushing. You can take time to spot the Himalayan Monal (Nepal's national bird) or simply enjoy the silence. Forest Camp, or Kokar, is a small clearing in the woods with basic but charming lodges. The evening is usually spent around a wood-burning stove in the dining hall, sharing stories with fellow trekkers.

Distance: ~6 km

Walking Time: 4–5 hours

Altitude: 2,970m As you climb higher today, the vegetation begins to change. The tall trees give way to shorter, moss-covered rhododendrons and lichen. The trail is mostly uphill, but the views begin to open up through the canopy. You'll catch glimpses of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. Low Camp is a spectacular spot because it sits right on the ridge. By the time you arrive, you’ll likely be above the afternoon mist. The proximity to the mountains feels much more intimate here. With a shorter walking day, you can spend the afternoon resting your legs and hydrating, which is crucial as you approach the 3,000m mark.

Distance: ~5 km

Walking Time: 4 hours

Altitude: 3,580m This is arguably the most beautiful day of the trek. Shortly after leaving Low Camp, you break out of the tree line and arrive at Badal Danda (Cloud Hill). From here, the trail follows a narrow, grassy ridge with steep drops on either side (perfectly safe, but visually stunning). You have a 360-degree view: the Annapurna Base Camp valley to your left and the Mardi Khola valley to your right. The climb to High Camp is steady. Because you arrive early, you have the entire afternoon to acclimatize. High Camp consists of several stone lodges perched on the ridge. The sunset here is legendary, as the sun hits the "Fishtail" peak, turning it brilliant shades of orange and gold.

Distance: ~9 km (round trip)

Walking Time: 7–8 hours

Altitude: 4,500m The "Big Day" starts early, usually around 4:00 AM, to catch the sunrise. The trail to the Upper Viewpoint (4,200m) and then to Base Camp (4,500m) is rocky and can be slippery if there’s frost or snow. It’s a physical challenge, but the reward is unmatched. Standing at the base of Mardi Himal, the South Face of Annapurna and the towering spire of Machhapuchhre feel close enough to touch. After taking in the views and enjoying a packed breakfast, you’ll descend back to High Camp. Since your itinerary allows for another night at High Camp (or a short descent to Badal Danda), you don't have to rush the descent, allowing your knees a much-needed break

Distance: ~10 km

Walking Time: 6 hours

Altitude: 1,750m Instead of retracing your steps entirely, you’ll take a different route down to the village of Siding. This is a steep descent through the forest. It’s a complete change of pace—you move from the high alpine rocks back into the lush, emerald greenery of the lower hills. Siding is a traditional Gurung and Brahmin village that hasn't been "over-touristed." Staying here gives you a wonderful insight into the local lifestyle. You can see terraced farms, traditional stone houses, and perhaps even watch locals harvesting honey from the cliffs. It’s a heartwarming way to conclude the trekking portion of the journey.

Distance: ~4 km walk + 2-hour drive

Walking Time: 2 hours (plus drive)

Altitude: 820m On your final morning, you’ll enjoy a local breakfast in Siding before a short, pleasant walk to the road-head at Kalimati or Lumre. The trail follows the Mardi River, passing through small settlements and over suspension bridges. A private jeep or local bus will meet you for the drive back to Pokhara. As the bumpy road smooths out and you enter Pokhara, the luxury of a hot shower and a meal at a lakeside restaurant will feel incredibly well-deserved. You’ll spend the evening by Phewa Lake, looking back at the mountains you just conquered.