From Pokhara:4-Day Mardi Himal Odyssey to the Himalayan Base Camp

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Pokhara → Kande → Australian Camp → Potana → Forest Camp⌄

   Your Mardi Himal adventure begins with a scenic morning drive from Pokhara to Khand, the starting point of today’s trek. From Khand, follow a peaceful mountain trail through lush forests and traditional hillside landscapes toward Australian Camp, a beautiful vantage point offering sweeping views of the Annapurna range and the iconic Machapuchare (Fishtail).

   Continue through the charming settlement of Potana, then enter the tranquil rhododendron and oak forests as the trail gradually climbs toward Forest Camp. Enjoy the changing scenery as the landscape becomes increasingly peaceful and alpine.

   After approximately 5–6 hours of trekking, arrive at Forest Camp (2,550 m). Settle into your comfortable teahouse, unwind after the day's hike, and enjoy the serene mountain surroundings.

   Overnight: Overnight stay at tea house

2. 2Forest Camp → Low Camp → High Camp⌄

   After breakfast at Forest Camp, begin your ascent toward the higher reaches of the Mardi Himal trail. The route winds through enchanting rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional openings revealing spectacular views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. As you gain altitude, the dense forest gradually gives way to alpine landscapes and open mountain terrain. Continue along the peaceful ridge toward High Camp, enjoying increasingly dramatic Himalayan panoramas along the way.

   After approximately 6–7 hours of trekking, arrive at High Camp, situated at around 3,580 meters. Take time to rest, acclimatize, and soak in the breathtaking mountain scenery as the peaks glow in the afternoon light.

   Overnight: Overnight stay at lodge

3. 3High Camp → Mardi Himal View Point → Low Camp⌄

   Rise early for one of the most spectacular mornings of the trek. Set out from High Camp before sunrise and follow the scenic ridge toward the Mardi Himal View Point, where the first light illuminates the dramatic peaks of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding Annapurna range. After approximately 3–4 hours of trekking, reach the viewpoint at around 4,200 meters. Take time to admire the breathtaking Himalayan panorama and capture unforgettable sunrise views. Travelers who are feeling strong and conditions permit can continue toward Mardi Himal Base Camp, at approximately 4,500 meters.

   After enjoying the mountain scenery, begin your descent along the ridge toward Low Camp (2,970 m). The changing landscape, from rugged alpine terrain back into peaceful forest, makes the descent a memorable part of the journey. Arrive at Low Camp after approximately 3–4 hours of descent, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil mountain surroundings.

   Overnight: Overnight stay at lodge

4. 4Low Camp → Siding Village → Lumre → Pokhara⌄

   After breakfast, begin the final descent from Low Camp toward Siding Village, following a peaceful mountain trail through forests and traditional hillside landscapes. The trail gradually descends to the lower valleys, offering a final opportunity to enjoy the surrounding Himalayan scenery and experience the rural lifestyle of the region.

   After approximately 4–5 hours of trekking, reach Siding Village, a traditional Gurung settlement nestled among the green hills. From Siding, continue on foot toward Lumre, a scenic village in the Annapurna region. The walk takes approximately 1 hour.

   From Lumre, meet your private vehicle and enjoy a comfortable drive of approximately 1 hour back to Pokhara, marking the end of your Mardi Himal adventure.