Mardi Himal is the short trek with the long views. Starting a short drive from Pokhara, the trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forest onto a narrow grassy ridge that leads straight towards Machapuchare.
Above High Camp the ridge narrows and the scale becomes overwhelming: the fishtail peak, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli fill the horizon. Most trekkers set out before dawn to reach the upper viewpoint for sunrise; the base camp beyond is for those with extra energy.
Lodges are simpler than on the big routes, and the upper ridge is exposed to wind — pack warm layers. An Annapurna Conservation Area permit is required.
