Mardi Himal Trek - 11 Days
Mardi
A scenic, gradual Annapurna-region trek via Dhampus, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp and the Mardi Himal viewpoints The 11-Day Mardi Himal Trek is a slower-paced version of one of Nepal's most rewarding short Himalayan routes. Starting in Kathmandu, the journey continues to Pokhara before entering the Annapurna foothills through Dhampus. From there, the trail climbs through rhododendron forest, quiet ridge country and increasingly open alpine terrain towards High Camp and the upper Mardi Himal viewpoints. What makes this 11-day itinerary different from the faster four- to six-day versions is the time available for a broader Nepal experience. It includes Kathmandu and Pokhara, a more gradual mountain approach, a dedicated high-point day from High Camp, and enough time to return through Siding without compressing every stage into long back-to-back trekking days. Mardi Himal is particularly appealing to travellers who want close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli without trekking all the way into the Annapurna Sanctuary. The upper ridge is the defining feature: once the forest falls away, the trail feels suspended between the Modi Khola and Mardi Khola valleys with the high mountains directly ahead. Quick Trek Facts Duration: 11 days, Kathmandu to Kathmandu Trekking region: Annapurna region, Nepal Trek style: Guided teahouse trek Difficulty: Moderate; the upper viewpoint day can feel challenging because of altitude, cold and exposed ridge walking Highest overnight stop: High Camp, approximately 3,580 m Standard high point: Upper Viewpoint, approximately 4,200-4,250 m Optional higher point: Mardi Himal Base Camp, approximately 4,500 m when trail, weather and group conditions permit Starting trail area: Phedi/Dhampus from Pokhara Finishing trail area: Siding roadhead, then drive to Pokhara Best seasons: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area entry plus applicable TIMS documentation Guide: Mardi Himal is listed by Nepal Tourism Board among routes covered by the revised TIMS/guide provision Why Choose the 11-Day Mardi Himal Trek? Many Mardi Himal itineraries are designed as very short treks from Pokhara. This 11-day version is better suited to travellers who want the mountain experience to sit inside a complete Nepal journey rather than treating the trek as a rushed add-on. More gradual pacing: the ascent is broken up into Dhampus, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp before the main viewpoint day. More time in Nepal: Kathmandu and Pokhara are included rather than treated only as transport hubs. Clear high-point day: the route distinguishes High Camp from the Upper Viewpoint and the optional Mardi Himal Base Camp extension. Flexible turnaround: your guide can choose the safest appropriate turnaround point based on snow, wind, visibility, altitude symptoms and group strength. Less itinerary pressure: the descent through Siding and return to Pokhara has its own space rather than being


