On the Mardi Himal Trek you get the views without the crowds. Expect authentic teahouses, stunning rhododendron forests and the most terrific views of the Annapurna Mountain Range. You will get eye in eye with giants like Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

The Mardi Himal Trek is a trek that you can find on a side trail of the one to the Annapurna Base Camp. It is a bit rougher, a bit more exciting for most but above all, a lot less busy than other treks in the Annapurna Region. The Mardi Himal Trek offers you great views of the lesser-known sides of the Annapurna Massif.

• Distance – 40 km/25 mi
• Time – 4 days
• Permits – TIMS card and Annapurna Sanctuary permit required
• Guide – can be done independently, with a guide/porter, or in a group
• Main starting points – Kande
• Main finishing points – Siding
• Highest point – Mardi Himal Base Camp, 4500 m
• Total ascent – 3274 m
• Total descent – 3731 m
• Cost – US$23 per person per day
• Accommodation – guesthouses, camping (at lower altitudes)
• Food – Nepali, Indian, Western, Chinese

The best time to embark on a 5-day Mardi Himal trek depends on your preferences and the weather conditions. Generally, the ideal time is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is mostly stable and the skies are clear, providing stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. Additionally, the temperature is relatively mild, making the trek more comfortable. In contrast, the winter months from December to February are extremely cold and snowy, making it challenging to trek. 

The monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rainfall, making the trails slippery and muddy, which could be dangerous. Therefore, it’s best to avoid trekking during these seasons unless you’re an experienced trekker who enjoys a more challenging trek.