Mardi Himal Trek
A dramatic ridgeline trek directly toward the sacred, unclimbed Machhapuchhre — one of the Annapurna region's most exciting newer routes.
Distance
50 km
Duration
6 days
Elevation Gain
2,700m
Max Elevation
4,500m
Min Elevation
1,770m
Highest Point
Mardi Himal Base Camp (~4,500m)
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
October-November, March-May
Route Type
Point to Point
Permit Required
Yes
Permit Cost
USD 40
Permit Information
ACAP permit (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card (NPR 2,000) required
The Mardi Himal trek follows a narrow ridge that juts directly toward the south face of Machhapuchhre (6,993m), offering increasingly dramatic close-up views of this sacred, unclimbed peak. Unlike many treks, the route takes trekkers along an exposed ridgeline above the cloud layer, creating an ethereal walking experience.
The route climbs from the Australian Camp area through rhododendron and bamboo forests to emerge above the treeline at Low Camp (~3,580m). From here, the trail follows a grassy, exposed ridge to High Camp (~3,900m) and then to the viewpoint near Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500m, where Machhapuchhre towers directly ahead.
Popular since around 2012, Mardi Himal maintains a quieter feel than the Poon Hill or ABC treks. Teahouse facilities exist but are more basic. Weather can change rapidly at the higher camps, and the final stretch can be snow-covered in spring.