As someone who has wandered through Nepal’s breathtaking Himalayan trails more times than I can count, the question I get most often from first-time trekkers is: “What’s the best starter trek?” For years, the go-to answer has been the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek. It’s iconic, scenic, and doable without elite-level fitness. But in recent years, another trail has quietly emerged as a compelling alternative—one that’s quieter, wilder, and just as jaw-dropping. I’m talking about the Mardi Himal Trek.
So, is Mardi Himal the better first Himalayan trek? If you’re weighing your options, here’s everything you need to know—from the perspective of someone who’s hiked both.
Why the ABC Trek Has Been the Default Choice
There’s a reason ABC has dominated blog posts and bucket lists for years. The Annapurna Base Camp trekking offer a well-balanced experience. You’re walking through lush forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude landscapes with 360-degree views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and other towering peaks.
It’s not just about the views, though. The ABC route is dotted with teahouses, making logistics straightforward. Trekkers of all ages and backgrounds can find a rhythm here. You’re never too far from help or a hot plate of dal bhat. For many, this accessibility makes it the perfect entry into Himalayan trekking.
But here’s the flip side—popularity has a price. The trail, especially during peak season, can feel crowded. You might find yourself leapfrogging the same groups day after day. And while the infrastructure is great, it sometimes feels a bit too polished. If you’re craving solitude and a deeper connection with nature, ABC can come up short.
What Makes Mardi Himal Stand Out
Now let’s talk Mardi. First off, the Mardi Himal Trek is shorter—typically 5 to 7 days depending on your pace and starting point. It’s tucked away just east of the Annapurna Base Camp trail but sees a fraction of the foot traffic.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Unmatched Views of Machapuchare: While ABC gets you up close to Annapurna I, Mardi Himal offers front-row seats to the stunning, sacred Machapuchare—possibly the most photogenic peak in the region.
- Wilderness Feel: The trail ascends quickly into rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high ridgelines that make you feel like you’re on an expedition. It’s raw, real, and untamed.
- Less Commercialized: You’ll still find teahouses, but they’re fewer and simpler. This means fewer crowds and more moments where it’s just you and the mountains.
- Sunrise and Sunset Magic: Because you’re walking ridgelines rather than valleys, every sunrise and sunset can be a cinematic experience.
For those who want a more off-the-beaten-path experience without going full hardcore, Mardi Himal hits the sweet spot.
The Trekking Experience: Mardi vs. ABC
Let’s break it down further:
| Feature | ABC Trek | Mardi Himal Trek |
| Duration | 7–12 days | 5–7 days |
| Max Altitude | 4,130m (ABC) | 4,500m (Mardi Base Camp) |
| Accommodation | More developed | Simpler, fewer options |
| Crowd Factor | High | Low to moderate |
| Terrain | Mixed: valleys, steps, alpine | Forests, ridges, high alpine |
| Views | Annapurna massif | Machapuchare, Annapurna South |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate to challenging |
If you’re someone who values fewer crowds and richer mountain solitude—even if it comes at the cost of slightly more basic amenities—Mardi is the way to go.
What Beginners Should Know About Mardi Himal
Don’t let the “quieter” label fool you into thinking this is a stroll in the park. The Mardi Himal Trek gains altitude fast. You’ll go from the subtropical forest zone to above 4,000 meters in just a few days.
Here’s what helped me (and will help you):
- Acclimatize well: Spend a night or two in Pokhara before hitting the trail.
- Take it slow: Don’t rush to High Camp. Enjoy the journey.
- Pack wisely: Layers, water purification tablets, and a quality windproof jacket make a big difference.
- Hire a guide: Not strictly necessary, but extremely highly recommended. For a first-timer, having someone to handle the arrangements and offer local tips is a total game-changer.
My Favorite Moment on Mardi Himal
Everyone has that one trek where the mountains feel like they’re speaking just to you. For me, it was watching the first light of day spill over Machapuchare from Mardi High Camp. There were maybe five of us there—no jostling for photos, no chatter—just quiet awe. The kind of moment you chase in every adventure and rarely catch.
ABC gave me that sense of achievement. But Mardi gave me stillness.
Who Should Choose Mardi Over ABC?
Go for Mardi Himal if you:
- Prefer solitude over social scenes
- Have limited time but want a high-altitude experience
- Enjoy more raw, immersive landscapes
- Don’t mind slightly more effort for bigger payoff views
Stick with ABC if:
- You want more developed infrastructure
- You like meeting lots of fellow trekkers along the way
- You’re nervous about altitude and want a more gradual ascent
Trekking with Nepal Gateway Trekking
Whether you’re heading for ABC or Mardi, having the right support makes all the difference. I’ve trekked with a few companies over the years, but Nepal Gateway Trekking stands out.
They’re local, experienced, and deeply committed to responsible tourism. The guides are seasoned but never jaded. They’ll not only show you the trail but help you understand the culture, the mountains, and yourself a little better by the end of it.
Final Word: Is Mardi Himal the Perfect First Himalayan Trek?
Honestly? It depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a more popular, comfortable introduction to the Himalayas, ABC is still a great call. But if you’re willing to trade a bit of comfort for deeper immersion, fewer crowds, and the kind of views that linger in your memory long after the trip is done, Mardi Himal just might be your perfect first trek.
It certainly was for me.
