Mardi Himal Trek

Planning a trek in Nepal can be overwhelming with so many routes and companies to choose from. The Mardi Himal Trek, offered by Peregrine Treks and Tours, stands out as a more intimate and less crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna Base Camp trek. It promises a rewarding blend of breathtaking mountain vistas, rich forest scenery, and local village culture—all wrapped into an approximately 10-day journey.

What we love most about this trek is how it balances accessible starting points — just a short drive from Pokhara — with spectacular panoramic views that are often less crowded than the main routes. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making even challenging sections manageable and educational. One thing to consider is the physical requirement, as moderate fitness is recommended for this trek. It’s not a walk in the park, but it’s perfectly suited for those seeking an authentic Nepalese hiking adventure without the crowds of Everest or Annapurna Base Camp.

This tour is ideal for adventurers who want a mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and a manageable challenge. If you enjoy stunning mountain panoramas and are comfortable with a moderate level of activity, you’ll find this trek to be highly rewarding. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value, considering the included guide, permits, accommodations, and most meals.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Offers panoramic vistas of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
• Authentic Village Life: Pass through traditional Nepalese villages such as Dhampus and Siding.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: A mix of forest, mountain, and cultural highlights over 10 days.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights.
• Comfortable Logistics: Pickup from Kathmandu, transfers, and accommodations are all arranged.
• Group and Private Options: Adaptable to solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

The Mardi Himal Trek is a carefully curated journey into the heart of Nepal’s natural beauty and local culture. Starting from Kathmandu, the adventure begins with a warm welcome and a detailed briefing about what lies ahead. The first days are about acclimatization and exploring the nearby city of Pokhara—a place renowned for its calm lakes and mountain views—setting a peaceful tone for the trek.

Day 1-2: Connecting Kathmandu to Pokhara

We love how these days serve as a gentle introduction. You’ll fly or drive from Kathmandu, with the scenic bus ride taking around 6-7 hours—an enjoyable way to get a glimpse of rural Nepal. Once in Pokhara, the lakeside area offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for some sightseeing or just relaxing by Fewa Lake. The morning on Day 3 involves a scenic drive to Phedi, the trek’s starting point, which takes about an hour.

Day 3: Into the Forests and Villages

We appreciated how the trek kicks off with a relatively gentle ascent, walking through lush forests to Dhampus, famous for its stunning Fishtail Mountain views. The path offers a good mix of forest canopy and mountain scenery, and the walk to Dhampus is about 2 hours. The village itself is charming, with several guesthouses and a chance to soak in local life.

Days 4-5: Forest Camps and Rhododendron Magic

From Dhampus, the trek becomes more forested, passing through oak, maple, and rhododendron groves. The trek to Forest Camp and Low Camp offers a taste of Nepal’s biodiversity, with one reviewer noting the “breathtaking scenery and peaceful surroundings.” The lodges here are cozy, and the atmosphere is tranquil—perfect for resting and recharging.

Days 6-7: Reaching the Mardi Himal Ridge

The journey to Mardi Himal Ridge is the highlight, as you ascend above the treeline into grasslands and open views. On Day 6, we loved how the landscape opens up, revealing views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The trail is lined with colorful rhododendron bushes, and sightings of the Danphe pheasant add a touch of wildlife excitement. On Day 7, rising early for the sunrise really pays off—expect spectacular mountain colors and a sense of accomplishment at the Upper Viewpoint. The trek here is about 6 hours, often praised for its stunning vistas and manageable challenge.

Day 8: Descent and Scenic Villages

The return route offers a different perspective, descending via Siding village. This traditional Nepalese village is the perfect spot for a break before you head back to Pokhara. The drive through villages like Kalimati and Ghalel is scenic, passing terraced fields and local farms—an authentic glimpse into rural Nepalese life.

Day 9-10: Back to Kathmandu and Departure

The journey back to Kathmandu is about 6-7 hours by bus, giving you time to reflect on the trip and enjoy the changing scenery. The last morning involves a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, completing your memorable trip.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

This package, priced at $1,400 per person, offers excellent value considering the inclusive features: guide, porter, permits, most meals, and airport transfers. The meals—breakfasts daily, plus dinners and select lunches—are generally hearty and authentic, providing energy for each day’s activities. Travel logistics are smooth with air-conditioned vehicles and well-organized transfers.

While the tour is designed for a moderate physical level, it’s worth noting that some days involve challenging ascents, especially when reaching higher altitudes like the Upper Viewpoint (4,200m). Proper acclimatization days and guides’ advice help mitigate altitude risks, but travelers should be comfortable with walking for several hours on varied terrain.

The tour’s group size is flexible—it’s a private tour, so you won’t be sharing with strangers unless you choose a group booking. This offers a more personalized experience, which many reviewers appreciated, especially the chance to ask questions and get tailored insights from guides.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers highlighted the experienced guides and stunning mountain views as the main draws. One mentioned their guide, “Deepak,” as being exceptionally knowledgeable about local flora and fauna, adding an educational element to the trek. Others noted the “peaceful, less crowded trails” which allowed for a more intimate experience with nature.

The quality of lodges and food also received praise, with many commenting on how the accommodations are simple but comfortable, and meals were filling and flavorful—important after a long day of trekking.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviewers pointed out that the trek can be physically demanding, particularly when ascending above the tree line or dealing with weather changes. A few noted that the bus ride from Pokhara to Phedi can be long, but this is typical for Nepal treks and not necessarily a deal-breaker.

If you’re after spectacular Himalayan views with a touch of culture, this trek ticks those boxes. It’s perfect for travelers with moderate fitness levels who want an authentic Nepal experience without the crowds of Everest or Annapurna Base Camp. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics makes it suitable for first-timers or seasoned trekkers looking for a less hectic adventure.

The price point offers good value, especially considering the all-inclusive nature of the trip. It’s also flexible enough to accommodate solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized experience.

This trek isn’t for those seeking luxury or extremely high-altitude challenges but provides a well-balanced taste of Nepal’s natural splendor and local culture.

The Mardi Himal Trek delivers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural exposure, and manageable physical challenge. With spectacular views, peaceful forests, and helpful guides, it’s an experience that rewards those who undertake it. The tour’s well-structured itinerary ensures you gain maximum exposure to the region’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

For travelers seeking an authentic, less crowded Himalayan adventure with great value, this trek stands out as an excellent choice. The thoughtful organization, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery create a memorable journey into Nepal’s breathtaking landscape.

Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned hiker looking for a quieter route, the Mardi Himal Trek offers something special for everyone who dreams of Himalayan vistas and Nepalese hospitality.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guide, porter, permits (TIMS and others), hotel transfers, most meals (breakfasts, dinners, some lunches), and transportation between key points like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the trek start/end locations.

How long is the drive from Pokhara to the trek start point?
It takes about an hour by scenic drive to Phedi, the starting point of the trek.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in cozy lodges along the trail, such as in Dhampus, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and other villages. They are simple but comfortable, offering basic amenities and local charm.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, if you have moderate fitness, you’ll find this trek manageable. It involves walking several hours per day with some challenging ascents near the high points.

How physically demanding is the trek?
The trek requires good physical condition, especially when reaching the higher altitudes like the Upper Viewpoint at 4,200m. Proper acclimatization and pacing are recommended.

Can I do this trek as a solo traveler?
Absolutely. It’s a private tour, so you can choose to go alone or with a small group.

What should I pack?
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy trekking shoes, a good jacket, sun protection, and personal essentials. The lodges provide basic amenities, but bring any personal gear you prefer.

When is the best time to do this trek?
While not specified, most Nepal treks are best in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when weather conditions are stable and views are clear.