Annapurna · Moderate
A short, photogenic ridge trek that feels boutique and private even when your Nepal window is tight.
Route planning map
Switch between topographic context, overall route shape, and stage-by-stage stops so you can see how the trek unfolds in real terms, not just as a line between famous names.
Route map
Loading route map
Drawing the topographic base, route line, and stage markers for this itinerary.
Map view
Terrain mode shows how the walking line sits between valleys, ridges, villages, and key access points.
Journey so far
You are at the trailhead in Kande, right at the beginning of the mapped route.
Still ahead
Roughly 18 km remain to Mardi Viewpoint, with 4 more stages still to come.
What this stop is like
Quick transfer out of Pokhara and onto the ridge-bound approach. It opens the route and sets up the next move toward Forest Camp.
Route read
5 mapped stages, about 18 km on the visible line, showing where the trek leaves road access and moves into higher mountain terrain.
Trailhead
Kande
Current focus
Kande
Finish
Mardi Viewpoint
Current leg
Kande sets the opening tone
7 km of visible movement around the selected stage, showing whether this is a road-assisted transition, an overnight anchor, or a more demanding mountain section.
Next shift
Forest Camp
Kande leads toward Forest Camp, where the route changes again in altitude, scenery, or logistics.
Duration
7 days
Max altitude
4,500m
Best seasons
Mar-May · Oct-Nov
Starting rate
$990+
Route highlights
Prep notes
Local partner insight
The notes below show what is commonly included, how the days are staged, and where pricing can change.
Partner-published rates are reference points. Final pricing depends on dates, group size, route choices, hotels, and transport.
Partner notes
The Mardi Himal trek is a highly recommended trekking route in the Annapurna Himalayan region. It is located east of the Modi river, across the valley from Himchuli. The spectacular trek takes you off the beaten track, away from busy trails and has the essence of exploration and adventure. This stunningly beautiful trek through ancient rhododendron forests, high ridges and traditional Gurung villages is a trip of a lifetime. This trek offers spectacular views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna Range, Lamjung Himal and Dhaulagiri. This trek is suitable for the moderately fit.
The Mardi Himal trek is a highly recommended trekking route in the Annapurna Himalayan region. Experience the scenery and culture with female guides in Nepal.
Itinerary preview
Day 1
A one hour drive takes us to the starting point: the small village of Kande. Then we have a 2 hour steep climb to Australian Camp (2000 m) where we arrive in early afternoon for lunch. A 2 hour gentle walk from Australia Camp via Pothana takes us to Pitam Deurali (2100m).
Day 2
The trail takes us deep into greenery of mountain oak, birch, rhododendron and hemlock. Today's destination is Forest Camp (2550 m).
Day 3
Today is steady, gentle climbing through the forest. After an hour walk we stop for a short tea break to enjoy the fishtail view. A gentle walk through the forest takes us to Low Camp where we have lunch. After lunch, we walk 2 hours further up reach our destination, Badal Danda (3200m). At Badal Danda, we have a close up view of the Machhapuchhre (fishtail), Hinchuli, and Annapurna South mountains. It is a famous place for viewing the sunrise and sunset.
Day 4
Today we make our way to the highest point on the ridge, High Camp (3900m). We leave the forest behind and reach the meadows with grazing sheep. Again the views are breathtaking as we can see the widespread Gurung villages and we can also see the trail to Annapurna Base Camp. From the guesthouse at High Camp we can see a beautiful sunset and sunrise and a closeup view of Machhapuchhre mountain.
