Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Mardi Himal Trek — 12-Day Annapurna Panorama & Base Camp Adventure

A quieter route into the Annapurna range, the 12‑day Mardi Himal trek trades crowds for sweeping ridgelines and close views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna. Expect steep climbs, teahouse nights and high‑altitude panoramas that reward steady pacing.

Pokhara, Gandaki Province•

12 days

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

A thin, cold light slides over serrated ridgelines as you stand where the hillside opens to an impossible sweep of Annapurna peaks. The trail beneath your boots is a mix of packed earth, stone steps and occasional pasture; the air smells of pine resin and yak dung fires. This is the Mardi Himal trek: a quieter approach to the Annapurna massif that rewards persistence with raw, alpine perspective.

Before You Go

Acclimatize deliberately

Schedule rest days and follow a slow ascent profile—don’t push altitude gains faster than 300–500 m per day when above 2,500 m.

Footwear and traction

Sturdy, broken‑in hiking boots with good tread are essential—sections can be rocky, muddy or steeply stone‑staircase.

Hydration and sun protection

High altitude sun is intense; carry 2–3 liters and a high‑SPF sunscreen and sunglasses for exposed ridgelines.

Carry local currency

Small villages accept only cash for tea house meals, tips, and basic supplies—ATMs are only in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Sunrise viewpoint near Mardi Base Camp for direct Machhapuchhre face views
•Small Gurung villages off the main trail with traditional homestay tea houses and local yak cheese

Wildlife

•Himalayan thar (occasionally on high ridges)
•Varied pheasants such as koklass and cheer pheasant in forested sections

Conservation Note

Trekking crosses the Annapurna Conservation Area—follow Leave No Trace, minimize single‑use plastics, and use established campsites and teahouses to reduce ecological impact.

Western explorers photographed Mardi Himal in the 1950s and it saw its first recorded ascent in 1961; local Gurung and Magar communities have shaped the ridgeline trails for generations.

What to Bring

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Sturdy hiking bootsEssential

Support and traction for rocky, steep and sometimes muddy trails.

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Insulating down jacketEssential

Cold nights above 3,000–4,000 m require reliable insulation.

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Trekking polesEssential

Reduce knee strain on long descents and improve balance on uneven ground.

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Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)Essential

Strong UV and glare on snow or exposed ridgelines make sun protection essential.

Common Questions

Do I need a guide or porter?

A licensed guide is strongly recommended for navigation and altitude safety; porters are common and useful for carrying heavier duffel and supporting acclimatization pace.

What permits are required?

You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card for trekking in this region; your operator usually arranges these.

Are teahouses available every night?

Basic teahouses operate on this route—expect shared bathrooms and simple meals; bedding is usually provided but bring a liner for hygiene and extra warmth.

How do I manage altitude sickness?

Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, sleep lower if symptoms appear, and seek descent and medical care for severe signs; prophylactic acetazolamide can be discussed with a physician.