Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek is an extraordinary Himalayan adventure that gracefully intertwines two of the Annapurna region’s most captivating trails. Moreover, this combined 13-day trip from Kathmandu offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic Annapurna Sanctuary. Moreover, its amphitheater of towering peaks and the breathtaking up-close views of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) from Mardi’s pristine ridges are simply spectacular. Additionally, the travelers will also experience the diverse landscapes that the trail offers. From lush rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages to high alpine meadows, all within one unforgettable expedition.
Synopsis of 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek:
The adventure begins with travelers’ seamless arrival via Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Here you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your respective hotel. This allows you to settle in and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the capital. The following day, a scenic bus journey will whisk you away to Pokhara, the ‘City of Lakes.’ It is a picturesque lakeside haven nestled beneath the Annapurna range. After a short break in Pokhara, the real journey into the Himalayas commences with a drive to Ghandruk. Again, it is a charming and culturally rich Gurung village. Moreover, it is known for its traditional stone houses and stunning panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare.
From Ghandruk, you’ll lace up your boots and begin your exhilarating trek. First, you will ascend towards the awe-inspiring Annapurna Base Camp, a natural amphitheater surrounded by colossal peaks. Next, a fascinating detour to the captivating Mardi Himal Base Camp. Moreover, both offers a distinct and equally mesmerizing close-up vistas of the iconic Fishtail Mountain and its majestic neighbors.
The Enchanting Annapurna Sanctuary:
Nestled amidst towering peaks, the Annapurna Sanctuary holds a unique allure. Not to say, it is touched by sunlight for only a fleeting seven hours daily even at the height of summer. Moreover, this extraordinary interplay of immense heights and profound depths within the sanctuary offers a captivating glimpse into an unparalleled diversity of ecosystems. Here, the south-facing slopes are cloaked in the lush embrace of dense tropical jungles, vibrant with rhododendron and bamboo. Additionally, in stark contrast, the north-facing slopes, resting in the rain shadow, reveal a drier, colder climate, showcasing nature’s dramatic variations within a single landscape.
Despite its limited sun exposure, the panoramic vista from Annapurna Base Camp within the sanctuary is utterly breathtaking. It is simply an offering a spectacle unlike any other. Furthermore, this unparalleled beauty, coupled with its role as a primary gateway to the magnificent Annapurna range peaks, has led to a significant increase in trekkers drawn to its heart. Now an integral part of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the Sanctuary is safeguarded by thoughtful restrictions on the number of international visitors, the collection of firewood, and domestic animal grazing, ensuring its pristine grandeur is preserved for generations to come.
Trek Map
Trek Highlights
Additional information on 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek:
Dossier disclaimer:
This trip details here are compiled with due diligence and provided in good faith. However, please be aware that information contained herein is subject to alteration and does not form a contractual agreement between the client and Cordial Trek Pvt. Ltd. The published itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We are always committed to providing you with an enriching and enjoyable trip.
Booking your 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek:
We are now offering maximum flexibility for our guests’ convenience to book their trip to the Annapurna region for 2026, 2027, and 2028. You may thus choose a date that best suits your schedule. Regarding your booking, please select one of the two available options. You may either pay USD 100 per person as a booking amount to confirm your trip or pay the full amount upfront. If you opt for the deposit, the remaining is payable via Online / Card Swipe / Cash. We accept all convertible currencies including USD, AUD, CAD, EURO, GBP, SGD, etc. when you arrive in Kathmandu.
Booking your International Flight:
Regarding your 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek, you should plan to arrive in Kathmandu on Day 1 and depart on Day 13. However, having some extra one or two buffer days can prevent any issues with your return tickets.
Checklist for 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek:
Please click here for a complete checklist of your 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek. Be sure to read it carefully and pack accordingly as per your personal preferences.
Arrival information:
Once you’ve booked your flight ticket, please share the details with us so that we can provide you with a complimentary airport pickup. Our airport representative will then be waiting for you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Additionally, they will be holding our official name ‘Cordial Trek’ and your nameplate as you exit the airport terminal. Moreover, if you’re arriving earlier, we can also arrange an accommodation for extra nights with add-on tours for additional cost.
Bus Ride/Flight to Pokhara and return:
We have included a Tourist Coach for all travelers leaving for this trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu. However, you may as well book a direct flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara & vice versa with additional costs (USD 120 – One Way).
Trek starting and ending days:
The actual trekking days are from Day 3 to Day 11. You’ll travel to Ghandruk via Birethanti and Pokhara on Day 2 to commence the trek on Day 3. You will then return back to Pokhara on Day 11. Expect to spend 9 days and 8 nights completing the Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek.
You’ll begin your trek from Ghandruk to Annapurna Base Camp to Mardi Base Camp and back to Pokhara. Here, you will have overnight stays in villages like Sinuwa, Deurali, ABC, Jhinu, Ghandruk, Forest Camp, Low Camp and High Camp. Moreover, each day’s trek will begin around 07:00 AM and conclude in the late afternoon, with frequent breaks to catch your breath. You’ll have numerous photo opportunities along the way and enjoy breakfast and dinner at the same place, while lunch is en route. Additionally, your guide will provide you with regular briefings about timing and stops every morning before the trek begins.
Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara:
In Kathmandu & Pokhara, you’ll stay in ‘3 Star’ Category Hotels with twin/double sharing beds.
Food:
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, your package includes breakfast only. They are typically served buffet-style. But since you leave early in the morning for your trip on Day 2, you’ll receive a packed breakfast. During the trek, you will be provided with full board meals and may choose from a menu offering local and international cuisines.
Note: It is highly advisable to stick to vegetarian food from your arrival in Kathmandu until the end of your trek, as proper toilet facilities are not available everywhere along the trail.
Baggage and weight limit:
If you opt for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara or vice versa, the total baggage weight allowance is 25 kgs. It combines both checked and carry-on baggage. Ensure you pack approximately 10/11 kilos in your checked bag and 5/4 kilos in your hand carry. It helps you to stay within the 25-kilo limit. Additionally, if you have items you don’t need on the trek, you can leave them at the Kathmandu hotel for storage at no additional cost. However, please remember to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.
Drinking water during the trek:
Bottled water is available along the trail; however, we highly encourage bringing your own reusable water bottles to minimize single-use plastic waste. To ensure safe drinking water, we will be happy to provide water treatment pills at no additional cost. You may also use flavorings to improve the taste. Staying properly hydrated is crucial during the trek, so aim to drink at least 3 liters of water each day to maintain energy and support your body at high altitudes.
Electricity, Charging and Wi-Fi:
Please be advised that you’re embarking on a trek to Annapurna Sanctuary and not exploring urban areas. While some facilities like charging and Wi-Fi are available at an extra cost, they are not guaranteed. We also recommend against planning to work or conduct online meetings during the trek. It allows you to fully enjoy the mountain experience.
Cash for extras and tipping:
You should have Nepali rupees for expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled drinks and Wi-Fi. Plan to carry about USD 200 to 250 equivalent Nepali rupees. Additionally, set aside 150-200 USD for tipping your guide and porter. The amount can vary based on the level of service provided by the field staff members.
Availability of Guide & Porter:
Every two travelers will be provided with a single porter and an experienced guide. The baggage however must be divided between 12.5 kgs each as every porter carries a maximum of 25 kgs. Both guide and porter will be insured and well equipped with necessary items and first aid kit.
Highlights of 13-Day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek:
1. Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m)
2. Trek to Mardi Base Camp (4,500 m)
3. Explore the beautiful city of Pokhara
4. Experience Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village
5. Trek inside Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) region
6. Enjoy a scenic trail with lush green forests
Places You’ll See :
Kathmandu Valley consists of three districts namely Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal.
1Kathmandu
Pokhara is a metropolitan city in central Nepal that serves as the capital of Gandaki Province. It is the second most populous city of Nepal after Kathmandu.
2Pokhara
Badal Danda is a popular view point on the way to Mardi Base Camp.
3Badal Danda
Mardi Himal High Camp is a crucial point on the Mardi Himal Trek, serving as the last teahouse stop before the final push to Mardi Himal Base Camp (MBC) or the Upper Viewpoint. It's renowned for its spectacular mountain views and its role in acclimatization.
4Mardi High Camp
Mardi Himal Low Camp is a significant stop on the popular Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers trekkers a crucial acclimatization point and stunning views as they ascend towards higher altitudes.
5Mardi Low Camp
Mardi Base Camp provides a base station for mountaineers before summiting the peak Mt. Mardi. Mt. Mardi is a 5587 meters (18330 ft) peak beneath the much more prominent Machapuchare in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It was first conquered in 1961 by Basil Goodfellow.
6Mardi Base Camp
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4130 m / 13550 ft) of the Annapurna I (8091 m / 26545 ft), the tenth highest mountain in the world above sea level falls inside Annapurna Sanctuary, a high glacial basin lying 40 km directly north of Pokhara.
7Annapurna Base Camp
Travel Itinerary:
Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu (Max altitude: 1350 meters / 4430 feet)
On the first day of your trip, you will arrive in Kathmandu via Tribhuvan International Airport. You may send us your flight details and arrival information at your convenience after you make your booking. Our airport representative will be waiting for you at the airport with your name card. He will help you load your luggage into the vehicle and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. Later in the evening, we will have a short brief with you about the upcoming tour, introduce you to your trekking guide and collect the remaining payment if any. After the pre-trip meeting, you will be escorted to a nearby restaurant for your typical Nepali welcome dinner with a Nepali cultural program. Later, you will be escorted back to your hotel for your night halt.
Accommodation: '3 Star' Category Hotel
Meals available: Welcome Dinner
Day 02 : Travel to Pokhara and drive to Ghandruk (Max altitude: 1940 meters / 6365 feet)
Day two begins with your morning breakfast. Our driver will then escort you to the nearby Tourist Bus Stop in Kathmandu. Here you will board a luxurious tourist coach to the beautiful city of Pokhara. After your arrival in Pokhara, you may take a short break here before being driven (2-hours) to Ghandruk, your halt for the night.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 03 : Trek to Sinuwa (Max Altitude: 2340 meters / 7677 feet)
Day three of your trip begins with your morning breakfast and a short briefing from your guide. The trek (5-6 hours) then begins from Ghandruk to Sinuwa through dense rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests, providing shade and a sense of wilderness. It is a significant and scenic portion of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, offering a mix of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Here, you'll walk along well-defined trails, often made of stone steps, leading you out of the village. Upon arrival at Sinuwa, you'll find teahouses offering basic but comfortable accommodation. The reward for the day's effort is often the incredible mountain views from Sinuwa, especially of Machhapuchhre and other snow-capped peaks.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04 : Trek to Deurali via Himalaya (Max Altitude: 3230 m / 10597 ft)
Day four of your trip begins with your morning breakfast and as usual a short briefing from your guide. The hike (5-6 hours) then moves towards Deurali via Himalaya. Upon leaving Sinuwa, the trail primarily ascends through dense, lush bamboo and rhododendron forests. Here, you'll pass through small settlements like Bamboo and Dovan, which offer rest and refreshment stops. Beyond Dovan, the ascent continues through a wilder part of the Annapurna Sanctuary, with the air becoming thinner and the vegetation gradually changing as you gain elevation. The final stretch to Deurali is a steep and sustained climb, signaling your deeper penetration into the heart of the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 05 : Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (Max Altitude: 4130 m / 13550 ft)
Day five, as usual, begins with your morning breakfast and a brief about your day from your guide. The hike (5-6 hours) then begins from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp with a steady ascent, where the dense forests transition to sparse alpine vegetation. The path often follows the Modi Khola riverbed, winding between towering cliffs. Upon reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) at 3700m (12139ft), the magnificent "Fishtail" peak dominates the skyline. From MBC, the final push to ABC is a continuous uphill walk over an open glacial valley, culminating in a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of iconic mountains like Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre. After a quality time at the base camp, we make our way towards Tea-Houses for our night halt.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 06 : Trek back to Bamboo (Min Altitude: 2340 m / 7677 ft)
Day six begins with a spectacular view of sunrise followed by your morning breakfast at ABC. The hike towards Bamboo then is a long and primarily downhill, typically taking 6-7 hours to cover the approximate 13-17 kilometers (8-10 miles). The walk will be through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, a refreshing change from the exposed upper altitudes. While the descent is less demanding aerobically, it requires careful footing on the continuous downhill sections and stone steps. Later, a guest house in Bamboo will be your halt for the night.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 07 : Trek to Jhinu Hot Spring via Chomrong (Min Altitude: 1780 m / 5840 ft)
The day as usual begins with your morning breakfast and a short briefing from your guide. The trek to Jhinu Danda then kicks off with a scenic journey typically lasting 5-7 hours as you descend from the Annapurna Sanctuary's lower reaches. The trail first involves a notable climb through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests to reach Sinuwa. From there, prepare for a long, strenuous descent down thousands of stone steps to the Chhomrong Khola (river). After crossing, you'll face a continuous, steep ascent on stone steps to Chhomrong before descending again to Jhinu Danda. This village is well-known for its natural hot springs, located a short walk further down by the Modi Khola, offering a soothing end to a day of hiking.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 08 : Trek to Forest Camp via Landruk (Max altitude: 2600 meters / 8530 feet)
Day eight as usual, begins with your morning breakfast. The trek then heads to Forest Camp via Landruk which offers a scenic, varied descent and ascent, typically taking 5-7 hours. From Jhinu, you'll first descend to the Modi Khola and then climb steadily to Landruk, a charming Gurung village with excellent mountain views. After your lunch break here, the trail continues with a gradual descent before climbing through dense forests and some terraced fields, eventually leading you to Forest Camp (also known as Kokar). This section provides a blend of cultural village experiences and deep forest immersion as you move further away from the main Annapurna Base Camp trail.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 09 : Trek to High Camp via Low Camp (Max altitude: 3600 meters / 11810 feet)
Day nine as usual, begins with your morning breakfast and a short briefing from your guide. Travelers will then begin their 6-7 hour trek towards Mardi High Camp, making their way through Low Camp and Badal Danda. The trail steadily climbs, gradually leaving the dense forest behind, though some rhododendron bushes may still dot the landscape. As you ascend, the path becomes increasingly exposed, at times narrower and rockier. This section is renowned for its stunning, close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, which become more breathtaking with every step. Finally, a guesthouse at High Camp will be your resting place for the night.
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10 : Trek to Mardi Base Camp and hike down to Low Camp (Max altitude: 4500 meters / 14764 feet)
Day ten begins really early with a quick briefing about the day from your guide. You will then begin your 4-5 hours hike towards Mardi Base Camp. The path can be very steep, rocky, and uneven. During winter, there might be snow and ice, making it even more challenging. The trail here is exposed, with no trees for shelter, meaning you're fully exposed to wind, sun, and potentially cold temperatures. The trail initially winds along the ridge, offering increasingly spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) appearing incredibly close, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal itself, and often Annapurna I and other surrounding peaks. The landscape is alpine and rugged, with sparse vegetation. Here, you'll be walking on rocky paths, sometimes scree, and potentially through snow. The sunrise over the Himalayas from this vantage point is often described as one of the most memorable experiences of the trek. Later, after an extensive period of time at the base camp and some memorable pictures, you will make your way back to Badal Danda/Low Camp (it depends upon your energy and tiredness that afternoon where we shall take our halt for the night).
Accommodation: Mountain Guest House
Meals available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11 : Hike down to Sidhing and drive back to Pokhara (Min altitude: 820 meters / 2690 feet)
Day eleven again as usual, begins with your morning breakfast and a short briefing from your guide. You will then begin your 3-4 hours hike down towards Sidhing. While it's largely downhill, long descents can be very taxing on the knees and leg muscles. The views will shift from close-up mountain panoramas to broader valley views. After your arrival at Sidhing, you may take a short break before being transferred back to Pokhara (2-hours drive). After your arrival at Pokhara, you may take a lunch break as per your convenience. After the break, you may then rejoin your guide and driver for a brief tour of Pokhara. Today you will visit Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave before your boat ride in Phewa Lake and visit Tal Barahi Temple in the middle of the lake to end your day. Later a hotel in Lakeside, Pokhara will be your halt for the night.
Accommodation: '3 Star' Category Hotel
Meals available: Breakfast
Day 12 : Travel back to Kathmandu (Max altitude: 1350 meters / 4430 feet)
Day twelve begins with your morning breakfast in Pokhara. You will then be escorted to a nearby bus station for your comfortable tourist coach ride back to Kathmandu. After your arrival, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: '3 Star' Category Hotel
Meals available: Breakfast
Day 13 : Final departure
Day thirteen marks the final day of your trip. We will provide you with your adventure trip certificate and bid you a final farewell before dropping you back to the international terminal of the Kathmandu Airport as per your flight plan.
Meals available: Breakfast
F.A.Q
How can I get my ‘On Arrival’ Nepal Visa?
Any international traveler arriving by air can get an ‘On Arrival Visa’ at ‘Tribhuvan International Airport’ in Kathmandu. ‘Overland Travelers‘ may acquire an ‘On Arrival Visa’ at the entry points of Nepal-China / Nepal-India border at following locations:
Kakarbhitta, Jhapa (Eastern Nepal) Birgunj, Parsa (Central Nepal) Kodari, Sindhupalchowk (Northern Border) Belahia, Bhairahawa (Rupandehi, Western Nepal) Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Banke, Mid Western Nepal) Mohana, Dhangadhi (Kailali, Far Western Nepal) Gadda Chauki, Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur, Far Western Nepal)
Optional: You may also get a Visa prior to your arrival in Nepal from ‘Nepalese Diplomatic Missions‘ from your respective nations.
Note: You must carry your valid passport and two passport size photographs (35 x 45 mm / 3.5 x 4.5 cm) along with you upon your arrival in Nepal for a Visa. Travelers from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Palestine, Somalia, Syria and Zimbabwe however require to submit a pre-application at Nepal Consular Services in their respective nations for a Nepal Visa.
Will I be ‘received’ upon my arrival at the airport?
Yes, a Cordial Trek airport representative will receive you upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, holding a placard with your name.
What is the weight limit for luggage during my trekking days?
All porters available at your service (one porter for every two travelers) can carry a maximum of 25 kilograms / 55 pounds each. You are therefore allowed to load a maximum of 12.5 kilograms / 27 pounds of luggage to your porter during your trekking days.
What about the communication services available during the trekking days?
All hotels and guest houses in the city area are available with free WiFi hotspots. Also, all travelers with a valid passport and a photograph are allowed to purchase a SIM Card upon their arrival in Nepal. The traveler must however additionally purchase data / voice packages as per their need and stay in Nepal. There are 2G, 3G and 4G services available with major carriers all over Nepal. You may optionally also purchase a WiFi service in the mountains where available.
What about the meals provided during my trekking days?
You will be provided with full board meals, breakfast, or complimentary dinner as specified in your respective Trek or Tour package. However, you may choose to purchase additional meals or beverages where available. Full board meals typically include breakfast with an omelet or boiled egg, toast or local bread, and porridge served with fried potatoes. For lunch, you will be served Dal Bhat Tarkari, Nepal’s most popular dish consisting of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable or chicken curry with pickle. Alternatively, you may opt for fried noodles with eggs, chicken, or vegetables. During dinner, you can choose from Dal Bhat Tarkari, Pizza, MoMo, or Spaghetti.
What are the permits required for this trip?
You need not worry about any permits required. We will make preparations for all the documents and travel permits (including TIMS and ACAP) required for your trek.
How challenging is Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) with Mardi Himal Trek?
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) with Mardi Himal 13-Day Trek is a moderately challenging trek package as it includes high altitude (up to 4,500 m) hikes. The package has however been successfully completed by children above 10 years of age as well as elders above 75 years of age. The difficulty however mostly relies upon your will power and physical fitness. The extremities you must expect here include a 6-7 hours hike with tea breaks in between. Additionally, Cordial Trek also provides you with an experienced trek guide capable of first aid services and other assistance.
What items should I bring—or purchase in Kathmandu/Pokhara—for this trip?
You may bring (or purchase in Kathmandu/Pokhara) the following items for this trip:
1. Insulated jacket: Down or puffer jacket.
Note: A high-quality down jacket suitable for the season is available to borrow from Cordial Trek at no extra cost. Travelers may also bring their own if preferred.
2. Other warm clothing: Thermal/innerwear, hat or beanie, gloves, neck gaiter, hiking pants, hiking boots, warm socks, and towel.
3.Daypack: 20–25 liters.
4. Backpack: A duffle bag will be provided by Cordial Trek.
5. Sleeping bag: Provided by Cordial Trek.
6. Trekking poles: Provided by Cordial Trek.
7. Crampons: Required only if snowfall is forecast.
8. Hydration: Camelbak or water bottle.
9. Sunscreen and sunglasses
10. Headlamp: For night use.
11. Toiletries
What's Included
3 Star Accommodation
Airport Transfers
Breakfast in Kathmandu
Company T-shirt
First Aid
Full Board Meals (Trekking Days)
Mountain Guest House
National Park Fee
Necessary Equipment
Porter
Sharing Jeep
Tour Bus
Travel Permits
Trekking Guide
Welcome Dinner
What's Excluded
Any Personal Expenses
Beverages
Gratuities for your Guide and Porter
Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
Lunch and Dinner in Pokhara
Nepal Visa
Travel Insurance
Location Map
Why Book With Us?
Book your Trek / Trip /Tour with us for a secure, safe and joyful holiday experience.
