Quick Answer
A guided Mardi Himal trek costs $450 to $850 per person for a 4 to 7 day package, including ACAP and TIMS permits, a licensed guide, a porter for two trekkers, teahouse lodging, three meals a day, and Pokhara to Kade or Phedi transport. For 2027 departures, October and April peak weeks run 10 to 15 percent higher than March or November. Expect $450 to $600 per person for a group of four, and $700 to $850 for a private trip for two.
Detailed Breakdown
The Mardi Himal trek is a 4 to 7 day moderate route in the Annapurna region, reaching 4,500m at the high camp and Mardi Himal base camp viewpoint. It starts with a jeep from Pokhara to Kade or Phedi, climbs through rhododendron forest to the high ridge at 3,300m, then ascends to the high camp at 4,100m with views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The route has fewer teahouses than Ghorepani or ABC, so lodging books faster in peak season.
A guided package is the most popular way to do Mardi Himal because the trail above High Camp is less obvious than the busier Annapurna routes, and the limited teahouse beds make advance booking essential.
Cost / Component Breakdown
| Component | Cost (USD per person, group of 2) | Group of 4 per person |
|---|---|---|
| ACAP and TIMS permits | $30 to $40 | $30 to $40 |
| Guide (per day) | $25 to $35 | $12 to $18 |
| Porter (per day, shared) | $10 to $15 | $8 to $12 |
| Teahouse lodging (4 to 7 nights) | $30 to $55 | $30 to $55 |
| Meals (4 to 7 days) | $100 to $175 | $100 to $175 |
| Pokhara transport return | $30 to $50 | $20 to $35 |
| Total per person | $700 to $850 | $450 to $600 |
What Affects the Answer
Group size is the biggest factor. A private trip for two costs $700 to $850 per person, while a group of four drops to $450 to $600 because the guide, porter, and transport costs split. The season affects teahouse prices, with October and April running 10 to 15 percent higher than March or November. The duration also matters, since a 4 day express itinerary skips the low camp rest day and costs $100 to $200 less than the standard 5 to 7 day version. Whether you start from Kade or Phedi also changes the cost, since Phedi is closer to Pokhara and saves an hour of jeep time.
Whether you add a side trip to ABC or combine with Poon Hill also raises the total.
Booking Tips / Practical Advice
Ask the operator for an itemised quote, not a single lump sum, so you can see what is included. Confirm the guide has Mardi Himal experience, not just generic Annapurna, since the high camp trail is less obvious. Request that teahouse lodging is pre-booked in writing for October and April, since the limited beds fill 3 to 4 weeks ahead. Verify that meals are three per day with no per-meal cap, since some budget operators cap meals at $5 each.
Book 4 to 6 weeks ahead for October departures, since Mardi Himal is increasingly popular and good guides fill early.
Comparison With Alternatives
Compared with Ghorepani Poon Hill, Mardi Himal costs 10 to 15 percent more because of the longer duration and higher altitude. Compared with Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal is shorter and cheaper, fitting 4 to 7 days instead of 10 to 14. Compared with Khopra Ridge, Mardi Himal is similar in cost but more crowded in peak season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake is accepting a quote below $450 per person. It usually means no porter, no proper guide license, or skipped teahouse bookings. Another error is not pre-booking teahouse lodging in October, since Mardi Himal has fewer beds than other Annapurna routes. Trekkers also forget to check the meal plan, ending up with extra charges for tea and boiled water. Finally, do not book a 4 day itinerary if you have not been above 4,000m before, since the rapid ascent to 4,500m risks altitude sickness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a guided Mardi Himal trek cost?
$450 to $850 per person for 4 to 7 days, depending on group size and season. Private trips for two run $700 to $850.
Is a porter included in the standard package?
Yes, one porter per two trekkers. Solo trekkers usually share a porter or pay a single supplement of $80 to $120.
Are meals and lodging included?
Yes, three meals a day and teahouse lodging for all trekking nights. Verify there is no per-meal cap.
When is Mardi Himal most expensive?
October and April peak weeks run 10 to 15 percent higher than March or November because of teahouse demand.
Summary
A guided Mardi Himal trek costs $450 to $850 per person for 4 to 7 days, including permits, guide, porter, lodging, meals, and Pokhara transport. Group of four pricing runs $450 to $600, private two runs $700 to $850. Book 4 to 6 weeks ahead for October.
Conclusion
Mardi Himal is a moderate short trek that delivers high-altitude views without a long commitment. Get an itemised quote, lock the teahouse booking, and choose a guide with route experience. The right package turns 5 days into a memorable Annapurna ridge walk.
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