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Mardi Himal Trek Route From Pokhara
Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most sought-after routes from Pokhara, offering a spectacular alternative to the more popular Annapurna region trekking. The Mardi Himal Trek is a popular and moderately difficult trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, which is highly demanded for short trek in Nepal. Its short duration makes it ideal for first-time trekkers, taking just 5 days to complete from the city of Pokhara. Similarly, the trek perfectly combines pristine nature, mesmerizing mountain views, and cultural immersion.
From traditional villages to varied stunning terrain to an eye-appealing view of snow-capped peaks, the Mardi Himal Trek showcases that what Nepal actually offers. The trek also offers a mesmerizing view of Mount Annapurna South and Mount Machhapuchhre. Thus, it is an alternative to the classic Annapurna Base Camp trek. Each step through the Mardi Himal trail showcases trekkers with new scenery, offering an adventure of wonder and beauty. Moreover, the Mardi Himal Trek route from Pokhara takes you through the stunning landscape of the Modi Khola and Mardi Khola valleys. In this blog, we will understand the Mardi Himal trek route from Pokhara.
Starting the Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara
Like other trekking destinations in the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal Trek begins in the vibrant city of Pokhara. However, trekkers must travel by ground transportation to get to the starting point of the Mardi Himal, which is usually Kande or Phedi. The Kande to Mardi Himal route is popular and the most preferred one. Kande is 27 km from Pokhara, taking about an hour to get there. On the other hand, Phedi is 14 km from Pokhara, and it takes about 40 minutes to get there. However, both times are taken by bus, and the time will be reduced if you choose a private transportation option.
The road from Pokhara to Phedi is generally good, but as Kande lies a little far from Phedi, its road condition is quite challenging, with some sections being off-road or gravel. Thus, due to the off-road conditions, a jeep is recommended to get to the starting point of the Mardi Himal. The journey begins from Pokhara with a drive to Kande or Phedi, where the trail winds through lush rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and stunning viewpoints.
Transportation Options from Pokhara to Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
By Local Bus or Jeep
A local bus or jeep is one common option for getting to the starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara. Both local buses and jeeps are available from the Baglung bus Park, where you can ask for help locating the bus going to Phedi/ Kande. Public buses depart from the bus park between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM and continue to run throughout the day. They charge US$5 per person. Similarly, Jeeps have no fixed departure time as they typically depart when full or upon booking. In addition, the Jeep costs around US$9 per person.
By Private Vehicle or Taxi
Trekkers can hire private vehicles or taxis by themselves or through a vehicle rental company. This option is ideal for those who prefer comfortable travel. Likewise, a private vehicle or taxi is time-flexible. The cost of the private vehicle depends on the type of transportation chosen and the number of people. Yet, the taxi cost from Pokhara to Phedi is Rs. 1,500.
Recommended Starting Point
Although trekkers can begin their trek from Phedi, most choose to start their trek to Mardi Himal from Kande. Kande is chosen as a starting point for the Mardi Trek because it offers a more gradual initial ascent and a more direct route to the trekking trails. Likewise, starting from Kande gives trekkers time to acclimatize to the altitude. In contrast, Phedi requires an immediate uphill climb, which may be challenging for trekkers when beginning their journey.
Trek Route of Mardi Himal to Pokhara
Popular Route:
Pokhara → Kande → Australian Camp → Pothana → Forest Camp → Low Camp → High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp
The Mardi Himal Trek route from Pokhara is a short and stunning journey through the Annapurna region of Nepal. The journey begins with a scenic drive to Kande, which lies 27km from Pokhara. However, an alternative route to Mardi Himal Base Camp is also available from Phedi or Landruk, but we take the popular one from Kande. From Kande, the walk begins through lush forests, small villages, and scenic stop points. The hike starts with a short uphill walk to the Australian Camp, with a magnificent view of Mount Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. From Australian Camp, an easy and scenic walk begins via forest and picturesque villages and reaches Pothana.
As you leave Pothana and make your way towards Forest Camp, the trail enters the thick rhododendron forest. With the accompaniment of Mount Machhapuchhre, the trail moves towards the open area, where the tree line starts thinning and reaches Low Camp. The trail moves from Low Camp to High Camp with an amazing panoramic view of the Annapurna range through the grassy ridges. The trail takes you from High Camp to the ultimate destination, Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), which offers a mesmerizing sunrise view over the mountain ranges. Likewise, the base camp of Mardi Himal offers a close-up view of Mardi Himal and a stunning panorama of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
Returning from Mardi Base Camp to Pokhara
- Usual exit point: Sidhing Village
- Transport options from Sidhing:
- Jeep to Pokhara (shared or private)
- Walking further to Lumre, then catching a vehicle
- Estimated time: 3–4 hours to Pokhara
After feeling a sense of accomplishment and appealing to your eyes from the base camp of Mardi Himal, you’ll retrace your journey. The trail descends from the Mardi Himal via High Camp, Low Camp, and Sidhing. The descent usually takes 2 days and goes through the dense forests and a traditional village. Sidhing is the official starting point for the journey to the Mardi Himal route. However, those who want to walk further can walk further to Lumre, making the location an existing point.
From Sidhing, trekkers must take transportation to Pokhara for their return. Yet, travelers have the option to choose a transportation option, including shared or private jeep and local bus. Although the option for a private jeep is most common, shared jeeps and local buses are less frequent. Private jeeps are easily arranged from Siddhing, take 3 to 4 hours to reach Pokhara, and cost USD 70-100 per jeep. Similarly, for local buses and shared jeeps, travelers may need to walk a bit or wait for availability, which is less comfortable than a private option.
View Details
Mardi Himal Trek
View Details
3 Days Pokhara Tour
Permits and Entry Requirements for the Annapurna Region
- TIMS Card
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- Where to get them in Pokhara (Tourism Office or Trekking Agencies)
The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are necessary permits and entry requirements for the Annapurna region trek. Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) have implemented the permit requirements for the Mardi Himal Trek. The permits ensure the safety and security of trekkers, manage their flow in the region, and monitor their movement. In addition, trekkers can get permits from tourism offices and trekking agencies in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Table of Contents
Cost of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit:
| Nationality | Cost Per Person |
| Foreigners | NPR 3,000 |
| SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,000 |
Cost of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
| Nationality | Cost Per Person |
| Foreigners | NPR 2,000 |
| SAARC Nationals | NPR 1,000 |
Connecting the Mardi Himal trek route from Pokhara
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most scenic trails in Nepal’s Himalayas. It begins in the popular lakeside city of Pokhara. The transformation from a city area to a remote and untouched beauty is stunning and offers a unique experience in rural Nepal. Thus, connecting the Mardi Himal Trek route from Pokhara is a journey from city life to mountain serenity. The trek proceeds from Kande through various destinations like Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and eventually to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
The Mardi Himal trek route is far from the city life and modern facilities, making it one of the raw destinations. Beyond Kande and Pothana, there are no roads, only narrow trails throughout the route. Likewise, settelemts are also few. After Kande, there are no shops, cars, or motorbikes, so supplies of necessary items depend on porters and mules, making the price of everything high. Besides all the difficult factors, what makes the destination truly remarkable is that it offers the sound of birds, winds, and water instead of the sound of honking, engines, and crowds.
Conclusion
If you’re dreaming of a short yet breathtaking trek in Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara should be at the top of your list in 2025. This off-the-beaten-path adventure offers spectacular Himalayan views, peaceful trails, and a genuine connection with local culture and nature.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first Himalayan experience or an experienced trekker seeking something new, Mardi Himal delivers an unforgettable journey without the crowds of more popular routes.
With the right preparation, permits, and a reliable trekking guide or company, you’re all set to explore one of Nepal’s most beautiful hidden gems. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for a life-changing adventure in the heart of the Annapurna region!
