Mardi Himal Trek: A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region
Last month, I got the chance to explore one of Nepal’s lesser-known but incredibly beautiful trekking trails — the Mardi Himal Trek. It was a journey filled with peaceful forests, stunning mountain views, and quiet moments far from the busy crowds. We had heard a lot about the popular routes like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp, but this time we wanted something a bit different, something more peaceful — and Mardi Himal was perfect for that.
A Short Yet Stunning Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is a short and scenic trail located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It usually takes about 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on how fast you walk and how many days you want to spend in each village. We started our trek from Kande, a short drive from Pokhara, and slowly made our way up through Australian Camp, Forest Camp, and then High Camp before reaching the viewpoint near Mardi Himal Base Camp.
This trail gave us the chance to see Mt. Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli up close. The views were breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A Quiet and Peaceful Trail
One of the best things about this trek is how peaceful it is. We didn’t see many other trekkers along the way, which made the journey feel even more special. The trails were quiet, and the villages we passed through were small and welcoming. Locals greeted us with warm smiles, and the guesthouses along the way were simple but cozy.
We enjoyed walking through rhododendron forests, open ridges, and grassy hills. The trail was not very difficult, though there were a few steep climbs. Anyone with basic fitness can do this trek with some preparation.
Beautiful Forests and High Hills
The lower part of the trek goes through thick forests full of rhododendron and oak trees. In spring, the rhododendrons bloom in bright red and pink colors, making the forest feel magical. As we climbed higher, the trees became fewer and we walked through open hills with wide views of the Himalayas.
The weather was clear during most of our trip, but it can change quickly, especially at High Camp. We were lucky to get a clear morning to visit the viewpoint near Mardi Himal Base Camp, where the snow-covered peaks stood right in front of us. It felt like we could almost touch them.
Simple Food and Warm Hospitality
We stayed in local teahouses throughout the trek. The food was simple — mostly dal bhat, noodles, and soup — but it tasted great after a long day of walking. The tea was always warm, and the beds were comfortable enough for a good night’s rest. What stood out the most was the kindness of the people we met. They made us feel at home, even when we were far from it.
A Trek Worth Doing
If you are looking for a short and peaceful trek with beautiful mountain views and fewer people, then the Mardi Himal Trek is a great choice. It’s not too far from Pokhara, and the trail is well-marked and easy to follow. We didn’t need any special permits apart from the usual TIMS and ACAP, which were easy to get.
This trek gave us time to connect with nature, enjoy the mountains, and refresh our minds. I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a quiet escape into the heart of the Himalayas.