Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek - 11 Days

Introduction to Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek

The Annapurna Region is home to many, among which lies the renowned route that encircles the southern base camp of Annapurna and the flower-covered path of the Mardi. Protected and conserved under the laws of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, the region shelters a diverse, multiethnic population of Nepal, especially the tribal people of the hills. Along with human culture, the region is home to diverse plant, animal, and bird species. The conservation is a legal parent conserving the region’s natural beauty and preserving the diversity of life there.

The trekking route from the southern base camp of the Annapurna to Mardi Himal is a unique trekking route that combines the alpine trails of the Annapurna through rock spires and glaciers with the traditional and alpine mixed route of Mardi. The route emphasizes the exceptional cultural and landscape experience of different regions of the Himalayas. From the breathtaking view of the Annapurna Ranges at Mardi viewpoint to the very peaks within the reach from the base camp of Annapurna South, it carries unforgettable memories from both geographical and cultural experiences.

What makes the trek unforgettable – Highlight of the trek

The beauty of the Annapurna Base Camp, combined with the Mardi Himal trek, is not bound to a specific location or scenery; the whole route that encircles the glacier valley of Annapurna and the alpine meadows of the Mardi with mixed cultural experiences of local communities highlights the trek's true hidden beauties. Re-creating the traditional route used by the local shepherds, the trek shows a contrasting difference. Individually, the southern Annapurna base camp features indomitable peaks, strengthening the spirits of every traveler passing through the rock spires and glaciers, while the route to Mardi features a calm and peaceful walk through dense forests of hills to high grasslands filled with seasonal flowers, combining the both transitioning route that Annapurna Base Camp mixed with Mardi Himal route itself is the main highlight of the trek.

The route is not chained merely to trails or paths that are walked upon; the encounters along the way make the route unique. The trek highlights the gradient transition of vegetation, culture, and life itself. The route is not only a path to the great Himalayan scenery but also carries the centuries-old history of rural Nepal, the local shepherds' daily struggles, villagers' stories, and wildlife that can’t be wrapped in a few words. Let’s have a highlight breakdown of the Annapurna Base Camp with the Mardi Himal Trek.

Cultural Highlights (Annapurna Base Camp & Mardi Himal)

• Traditional Gurung villages with a strong community-based mountain lifestyle.
• Presence of Magar communities in the lower hills with mixed Hindu traditions.
• Blend of Hindu and Buddhist practices along the trekking route.
• Ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and local spiritual landmarks.
• Warm hospitality with authentic local food and teahouse culture.

Landscape & Scenic Highlights

• Lush rhododendron and bamboo forests in lower regions.
• Terraced farmlands and river valleys in the foothills.
• High alpine landscapes at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m).
• Panoramic ridge walks on Mardi Himal with open mountain views.
• Close-up views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.

Wildlife & Flora Highlights

• Rhododendron forests bloom in the spring season.
• Oak, pine, and bamboo vegetation across the mid-hills.
• Alpine shrubs and sparse high-altitude vegetation.
• Medicinal herbs found in the Himalayan regions.
• Himalayan Monal (Danphe), Nepal’s national bird.
• Himalayan Thar grazing on steep rocky slopes.
• Musk Deer in forested sections.
• Langur monkeys in lower and mid-altitude forests.
• Variety of high-altitude birds and pheasants.
• Rare sightings of species like Snow Leopard (upper regions).

Unique Route & Experience of ABC & Mardi

• Combines classic Annapurna Base Camp trail with off-the-beaten Mardi Himal route.
• Experience both alpine glacier basin (ABC) and ridge-line trekking (Mardi Himal).
• Less crowded Mardi trails compared to the busy ABC route.
• Gradual transition from dense forests to open Himalayan ridges.
• Diverse trekking experience within a shorter combined itinerary.

The Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, scenic landscapes, rich wildlife, and a combination of alpine base camp trails with panoramic ridge walks, making it one of the most diverse trekking experiences in Nepal.

Trekking the Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal in 2026/27

The Annapurna Base Camp is known for its spectacular view of the Machhapuchre and the Annapurna South, which can be seen within reach of a palm. From dense valleys to the glacial valley trail, the trek is still popular among all generations of Trekkers. Combined with the alpine ridge trails of Mardi, accessed through the floral forest of hills, the trekking route gives meaning to how adventure should be. The trek was known for its rurality mixed with the untouched pure beauty of nature. So, how is the trek in current years?

With time, even nature changes its course, but the Annapurna Valley still retains the incomparable beauty of the Himalayas, despite significant changes in tourism. The beauty of the trek now accommodates luxury with rurality. How?

Due to the growing popularity of the region, locals and the government contributed to providing more comfortable lodges and food for both domestic and international trekkers. Compared to facilities post-condition, the current Annapurna region, including Mardi, accommodates more luxury stays with a variety of food and beverage options.. The trails are beginner-friendly, with multiple signposts and markers for easy navigation, and, due to growing visitor numbers, the route is well-managed by both local communities and conservation. If the trek is on your bucket list, find a suitable date and book your next trip with us.

Best time to visit Annapurna and Mardi – Seasonal Breakdown

In general, Nepal experiences peak travel time twice a year. The season falls in Spring (Pre-monsoon) and Autumn (Post-monsoon). Both seasons are widely popular for adventure activities in Nepal, especially trekking in the high passes. On average, the peak season lasts for 5-6 months a year with an equal gap between seasons. Now, why are these particular seasons considered the best time to visit the Himalayas?

The spring season (March-May) is known as the season of flowers and new life. After a harsh winter, the vegetation starts anew, adding a colorful scenery to the cold and dry Himalayas. Which is the perfect time to visit places like Mardi Himal? Since Mardi is not only known for breathtaking close views of the Annapurna South, Mt. Fishtail, and Mardi, but also the colorful path from lower camo filled with seasonal flowers, which you can check out in the gallery section. Personally, spring is recommended due to its mixed trail of greenery and alpine trails. So, spring is your go-to season for experiencing calming, peaceful trails and enjoying passive activities like birdwatching.

The Autumn season (September-November) is the favored season for high passes and a seamless view of the whole Annapurna Range. The months from September to November fall after a long rainy season, sweeping away clouds and possible pollution. Major festivals of Nepal coincide, making it a perfect time for those who seek cultural experiences with clear mountain views.

Seasonal Breakdown

Spring (March–May)

• Warm days, stable trekking weather
• Blooming rhododendron forests along trails
• Clear mornings with mountain visibility
• Festivals like Holi add cultural experience
• Active wildlife across trekking regions

Autumn (September–November)

• Crystal-clear skies and best mountain views
• Dry trails, ideal trekking conditions
• Warm days with cool mountain nights
• Festivals like Dashain and Tihar
• Harvest season with vibrant village life

Foreign and local trekkers alike choose trekking seasons based on what suits them best. Both seasons have perks, so your travel plan plays a vital role. If you are hesitant to pick the best season for you, you can contact us, and we can guide you through based on your personal preferences.

Outline itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek

Day 01: Drive to Jhinu to Sinuwa (Altitude 2100 m): Approx. 6-hour walk
Day 02: Trek to Deurali (Altitude 3230 m): Approx. 7 hours walk.
Day 03: Trek to ABC (Annapurna Base Camp / 4130 m): Approx. 7 hours walk.
Day 04: Trek down to Bamboo (2310 m): Approx. 7 hours walk.
Day 05: Trek to Landruk Village (1,565 m). Approx. 8 hours walk.
Day 06: Trek to forest camp (2600 m): Approx. 6 hours walk.
Day 07: Trek to Badal Danda (3300 m): Approx 6 hours walk
Day 08: Trek to Mardi High Camp (3800 m): Approx 4 Hours walk.
Day 09: Excursion Mardi Base camp & trek to low camp: Approx
Day 10: Trek to Australian Camp (2100m) from Mardi Low Camp
Day 11: Trek to Phedi and back to Pokhara by Car.

Things to know about the cost for Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal Trek and Booking options

Trek cost and variables

Every travel cost depends on the traveler's choices, and among these choices are the fixed and variable factors that contribute to the total cost. What are these factors affecting a package cost?

Fixed cost factors include government subsidies or any expenses required to be paid to government bodies on both the local and national level, such as conservation fees, municipal fees, national park entry fees, and other fees for special permits. These costs are applicable to any form of trekker, be it an independent trekker or someone booked through an agency. In trekking, fixed costs are not those costs that need to be paid, but such factors that don’t have alternate.

Now, variable costs are the remaining expenses that need to be covered when travelling anywhere. Transportation, lodging, and food are some of the basic needs for trekkers, along with proper gear. These expense heads has alternates, for example: transportation has multiple options for both ground and airways with different levels of pricing and services. Taking the variable costs into account, budget trips or luxury trips can be planned. How will this affect the pricing and cost for the trek?

Expenses like transportation and lodging have different levels of services; a private jeep costs more than a shared jeep or local ground transportation, and flight ticket fees cost more. For the lodgings, teahouses in the trekking route are normally rated around the same, but hotel stays near Pokhara lakeside, and Kathmandu have thousands of options to choose from with equal service level. The trips are planned according to service level and overall cost, hence the different pricing for similar trips.

Notes: Trip pricing is mainly backed by different kinds of services provided. So, an intimidating price may not be overpriced, nor can a cheap package provide quality services.

Booking options for Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi and the following costs

Trekking in Nepal has always been a free adventure, not free of financial expenses but of self-will. Following legal proceedings, any citizens of a free country can travel in Nepal with proper documents. The main question is, how can a person trek in Nepal from legal procedures to hiring a guide and booking options? Now, there are four ways of trekking in Nepal and all these options has its own perks and downsides. Let’s break down the ways of trekking in Nepal.

Private Bookings: With a limited number of trekkers from 1-3, you book your trek from a reputed trekking agency in Nepal. The agency acts as a legal advisor and guardian of your safe travel. The cost for private booking is USD 725 for a single booking and USD 670 per person for 2-3 bookings.

Pros:

• Timely departure and secured trip.
• Time saving, no hassle in the legal procedure for permits.
• Different service perks and a guided trek.
• Flexible planning.

Cons:

• More costly than group bookings.
• Plans can’t be changed or withdrawn easily during the trek.

Group Booking: The group booking process is similar to private booking, with an agency handling the paperwork and managing the trip. The difference is the number of Trekkers, which ranges from 4 and above. The cost for 4-6 trekkers is USD 640, and for 7-12 is USD 610. The group booking may have limited decision-making but also unlocks different perks, such as a huge margin in discount and free cost for a trekker for a group of 10.

Pros:

• Affordable cost and a secure, guided trek.
• Noticeable discount and Wilderness Excursions' exclusive FOC Policy.

Cons:

• Long planning and decision-making.
• Lack of possibility for sudden changes in Planning.
• Less flexible when compared to private bookings.

Service Trekking: Service trekking is different from regular bookings. In private and group bookings, you are provided a set of services, an inclusive package trip. Service trekking is choosing only the services needed to regulate a trek legally. How? To trek in Nepal, every trekkers are legally required to get a TIMs, conservation permits, and a guide. You can actually select these few services, pay the agency fee for arranging the service, and handle the rest of the trip budget yourselves, which includes transportation, lodgings, and food.

Pros:

• Affordable cost with a guided trip.
• Flexible and quick departures.

Cons:

• Self-management for running costs.
• Less secure and hidden costs.
• Lodging difficulties.

Independent Trekking: Basically, you are the whole responsible body of the trek who manages and plans the trip. Without relying on any local trekking agency, you map out the route and apply for necessary permits, while taking your time in Kathmandu.

Pros:

• Flexible route, can be changed in any way possible. Extend or end the trek early.
• Cost saving, no need to pay agencies for managing the trip.
• Flexible budget plan.

Cons:

• Route misdirection and possible threats in high passes.
• Hassle and time-consuming when applying for permits and managing transportation.
• Possible rescue delays in high altitudes, in the absence of any collateral.

Note: Hiring a guide and porter costs USD 25 and 15, respectively, per day. When hired through an agency, the cost covers their daily wage, insurance, and daily expenses during the whole trek as per the registered itinerary. For more detailed information, follow the given link.

Why book your next trip with Wilderness Excursion?

We are a registered trekking agency based in Nepal with decades of experience in organizing both group and private trekking and peak climbing. With 99% successful departure and completion rate, booking with us has its own different perks, such as our FOC Policy.
 

• We arrange TIMS cards and trekking permits, saving time and confusion.
   
• Local guides know routes, weather, and culture—reduces risk of getting lost.
• In case of altitude sickness or injury, we handle rescue and evacuation.
   
• Accommodation, food stops, and transport are pre-arranged.
   
• No need to research every detail—you can focus on the experience.
   
• Agencies plan proper acclimatization days and safe itineraries.
   
• Our guides help interact with locals, especially in remote areas.
• Trek guides and porters are properly insured with the required gear.
   
• Some treks require a registered agency to obtain special permits, which we are responsible for obtaining.
   
• You can trek comfortably without carrying heavy loads with the help of porters.
   
• Our guides explain traditions, monasteries, and local lifestyle, making the trek richer.

Booking procedure and required documents

Booking with Wilderness Excursion is simple and easy. In a few steps, your next trip will be arranged and depart on your preferred date and time. Follow the guided steps to book the 10-day Annapurna Base Camp with Mardi Himal trek.

1. Click on the ‘Book This Trip”.
2. Fill up the required fields in the form and preferred addons.
3. Make a 15% advance payment to confirm the booking.
4. Enjoy your holiday and stay in Nepal.

Documents required for booking

• Clear passport photocopy of all participants.
• Clear passport-size photo.
• Updated insurance copy.

Note: Once you book, our team will contact you regarding the documents required for processing the trek.

Instant trek departures available on fixed dates

Wilderness Excursion Pvt. Ltd provides fixed departures on fixed dates given on our websites. Along with customized trips, you can also choose to book the trip instantly if the given package and itinerary suit you. Our team will arrange your trip in accordance with the fixed package service.

Pros and cons of booking instant departures

Pros

• Fixed departure for any number of participants ranging from 1 to 7.
• Upgradeable services and affordable pricing.
• FOC policy is applicable if requirements are met.
• Light itinerary customization is possible.

Cons

• Heavy customization to the trek itinerary is not advised.
• Less time to prepare and discuss the contents.
• A day is still required for legal proceedings (Trek permits).