MARDI HIMAL AND ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - Mountain World Treks MARDI HIMAL AND ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP TREK - Mountain World Treks

Trip Overview

If you’re dreaming of trekking in Nepal and want a journey that offers both dramatic mountain views and deep cultural experiences, the Mardi Himal Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two unforgettable routes worth considering. Located in the Annapurna region of central Nepal, Mardi Himal and the Annapurna Base Camp treks give you front-row views of iconic peaks like Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli—but each offers a very different experience depending on what you’re looking for.

Tucked away in the Annapurna Conservation Area, the Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most scenic short treks. It’s perfect for those who want to experience stunning Himalayan landscapes without the crowds. The trail starts from Kande or Dhampus, just a short drive from Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital. You’ll walk through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and quiet villages until you reach the Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m) or Base Camp, which lies directly beneath the dramatic peak of Machapuchare.

This trek is ideal for beginners or anyone short on time. In just 5 to 7 days, you can complete the full loop, staying in local teahouses that offer warm meals and cozy rooms. It’s also a great altitude introduction trek if you’re planning higher Himalayan adventures later. Mardi is especially beautiful in spring (March to May) when the forests bloom, and in autumn (September to November) when skies are clear and the weather is dry.

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is one of the most iconic and widely trekked routes in the Himalayas. Starting from Nayapul or Jhinu, this trail leads you deep into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by 360-degree views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Machapuchare, and other mighty peaks.

Unlike Mardi, the ABC trek takes you through a mix of Gurung and Magar villages, terraced fields, bamboo forests, and glacial valleys. The trek typically takes 7 to 11 days, depending on your route and pace. It’s more physically demanding than Mardi but incredibly rewarding. Standing at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the mountains—because you are.

Mardi Himal and the Annapurna Base Camp treks start close to Pokhara, making them easily accessible for travelers arriving from Kathmandu by flight or road. Whether you choose Mardi for its quiet charm or ABC for its grandeur, both treks offer a true taste of Nepal’s Himalayan magic.