Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek is entirely in local family-run teahouses and guesthouses. The main overnight stops are Forest Camp (2,600m), Low Camp (2,985m), and High Camp (3,580m), each with 5–14 teahouses offering basic twin-sharing rooms, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Room costs range from USD $3–15 per night depending on altitude and season. High Camp is the most basic way to bring a sleeping bag. Pokhara (before and after) has full hotel options for all budgets.
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Here’s the truth about Mardi Himal Trek accommodation: it’s not glamorous. Plywood walls. Shared squat toilets. Thin mattresses. And at High Camp, temperatures that make you very glad you brought a sleeping bag.
But here’s the other truth: the warmth of a teahouse dining room after six hours on the trail, a bowl of dal bhat steaming in front of you, and Machhapuchhre glowing pink outside the window that’s an experience no five-star hotel can replicate.
This guide tells you exactly what to expect at every stop. The facilities you’ll find. The costs you’ll pay. The gear you need to pack. And the honest reality of sleeping at 3,580m in a wooden room with walls so thin you’ll hear your neighbor’s alarm at 4am.
Overview – What Type of Accommodation Is on the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a teahouse trek. All accommodation is in locally-owned guesthouses and lodges. No camping is required unless you specifically choose an expedition-style package. Teahouses are family-run operations. Staying in them directly supports local Gurung and Magar communities.
Unlike Annapurna Base Camp (more developed) or Everest Base Camp (well-established lodges), Mardi Himal has simpler, more rustic infrastructure. The route was only established in 2012, so facilities remain basic and authentic.
As altitude increases, facilities decrease. This is the defining pattern of Mardi Himal Trek accommodation options. There are no luxury lodges. No attached bathrooms above Pokhara. No ATMs on the trail.
Key mindset: simple, warm, authentic, not comfortable by hotel standards, but exactly right for the experience.
Accommodation at Every Stop Camp by Camp Breakdown
Pokhara Before and After the Trek (900m)
Pokhara is the start and end point for most Mardi Himal Trek itineraries.
Accommodation range: Budget hostels to mid-range hotels to luxury lakeside resorts.
Lakeside (Phewa Lake area) is the best area to stay. It’s walkable to trekking agencies, gear shops, restaurants, and ATMs.
Recommended budget range: USD $15–40 per night for comfortable mid-range; USD $50–120 for three-star lakeside.
Facilities: private rooms, attached hot shower bathrooms, WiFi, restaurant, room service.
Pre-trek recommendation: Stay at least one night in Pokhara before your first trek day to rest after Kathmandu travel and sort final gear.
Post-trek recommendation: Book a hotel with a hot shower and a proper bed you will want both.
Key tip: Book Pokhara accommodation in advance during October peak season. The city fills fast when Nepal’s trekking season peaks.
Kande / Australian Camp (1,770m–2,060m) Day 1 Stop
The trek starting point. Some itineraries overnight here before pushing to Forest Camp.
Accommodation: Small guesthouses; better quality than higher camps.
Facilities: Shared bathrooms, basic WiFi available, cold or lukewarm shower in most places.
Room cost: USD $3–8 per night (room only).
Room type: Twin-sharing standard; some private rooms available.
Food availability: Dal bhat, noodles, eggs, bread, tea full trekker menu.
Crowd level: Low not a main overnight stop for most trekkers.
Insider tip: Australian Camp itself has stunning panoramic Annapurna views. If your first day finishes early, spend an extra 30 minutes at the viewpoint before dinner.
Deurali / Pritam Deurali (2,100m) Optional Stop
A mid-way point between Kande and Forest Camp. Some three-day itineraries skip this overnight.
Accommodation: Small teahouses; basic, functional.
Facilities: Shared toilets, limited electricity, basic meals.
Room cost: USD $3–6 per night.
Best for: Trekkers who find the Day 1 Kande to Forest Camp section too long in one push.
Notable teahouses: Nice View Lodge and Restaurant; Trekkers Inn Lodge.
Forest Camp (2,600m) Main First Night Stop
The most comfortable overnight stop on the upper trail where most trekkers spend their first night.
The most popular Day 1 or Day 2 overnight stop for most Mardi Himal Trek itineraries.
Number of teahouses: 7 lodges, all locally owned.
Room type: Twin-sharing standard (2–3 beds per room); no private attached bathrooms.
Bedding: Foam mattress, pillow, warm blankets provided.
Bathroom: Shared squat toilets outside the main building; some lodges have western toilets.
Hot shower: Available for extra charge approximately NPR 300–400 (USD $2–3) per person via bucket shower.
WiFi: Available at most Forest Camp teahouses cost approximately NPR 200–400 per device; connection reliable during clear weather, solar-powered.
Electricity / Charging: Available; NPR 200–300 per device charge (dining area outlets).
Room cost: USD $5–15 per night depending on season.
Dining room: Warm, social hub of the teahouse; wood stove or fire in colder months; where trekkers gather in the evenings.
Peak season note: Forest Camp fills during October arrive by early afternoon to secure a good room. No advance booking system in most cases.
Insider tip: The dining hall at Forest Camp is typically the warmest part of the lodge. Eat dinner early and stay close to the stove on cold evenings.
Low Camp / Badal Danda (2,985m–3,050m) The Quiet Middle Stop
A smaller, quieter stop between Forest Camp and High Camp.
Number of teahouses: 2–4 small lodges with limited options.
Room type: Twin-sharing; basic wooden rooms.
Bathroom: Shared outdoor squat toilet.
Hot shower: Rare or unavailable plan accordingly.
WiFi: Limited or unreliable connectivity weakens noticeably above 3,000m.
Electricity: Solar-powered; intermittent on cloudy days.
Room cost: USD $3–8 per night.
Food: Basic trekker menu dal bhat, noodles, soups, tea.
Crowd level: Low most trekkers push through to High Camp.
Best for: Trekkers who want to break the Forest Camp to High Camp day into two shorter days; good acclimatization strategy.
Altitude note: At approximately 3,000m, this is the first point where some trekkers begin noticing mild altitude effects. A night here before High Camp is a smart buffer.
High Camp (3,580m) The Key Stop Before Base Camp
The most critical and most basic overnight deserves an honest, detailed breakdown.
The last overnight stop before the Mardi Himal Base Camp day hike.
Number of teahouses: 14 lodges the most options above Forest Camp.
Room type: Basic twin-sharing; small rooms with thin walls; no private bathrooms.
Bedding: Basic foam mattress, pillow, blankets bring your own sleeping bag. This is non-negotiable at High Camp.
Bathroom: Shared outdoor squat toilets; often cold and windy at night.
Hot shower: Not available or very limited at High Camp altitude.
WiFi: Not reliably available, assume no WiFi at High Camp.
Electricity: Solar; very unreliable to charge all devices at Forest Camp or Low Camp before arriving.
Room cost: NPR 1,000–1,500 (USD $7–12) per night.
Dining room: The social and warmth hub trekkers gather, share stories, and strategize about the early morning base camp push.
Temperature: Night temperatures drop sharply, walls are thin, and rooms are genuinely cold. Down jacket plus sleeping bag is strongly recommended.
Named teahouses: Hotel Fishtail and Restaurant; Hotel High Camp and Restaurant; Hotel Trekker’s Paradise and Restaurant.
Peak season warning: High Camp accommodation is the most sought-after stop in peak season. Arrive by 2:00–3:00pm to guarantee a room. Late arrivals have been turned away during October.
Honest expectations: High Camp accommodation is functional but genuinely basic. Rooms are small, walls are thin, temperatures drop sharply at night. The views from High Camp the next morning make every uncomfortable moment worthwhile but come prepared.
Insider tips:
- Store main bags at High Camp before the base camp day hike teahouse owners will keep them safely
- Eat a large, warm dinner the night before the base camp push you need the calories
- Go to sleep early (7:00–8:00pm) you’ll be rising at 4:00–5:00am for the base camp hike
Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,200–4,500m) No Permanent Accommodation
No permanent teahouses or lodges at base camp itself.
A bamboo hut at the viewpoint may offer basic tea and snacks, not accommodation.
Temporary tents are sometimes set up by operators during peak season (October) , highly basic and weather-dependent.
All trekkers sleep at High Camp and hike to base camp as a day hike from there.
Some itineraries include an optional overnight camp at base camp using expedition tents carried by porters confirm with your operator before booking.
Important: This is why High Camp accommodation matters so much it’s your only real overnight option for the base camp experience.
Siding / Lwang Village (1,700m) Exit Route Stop
The exit point for most Mardi Himal itineraries trek ends here before a jeep to Pokhara.
Accommodation: Homestays and small local lodges.
Facilities: Warm Nepali hospitality; hot showers; traditional food; basic rooms.
Room cost: USD $3–8 per night.
Atmosphere: The most culturally immersive overnight of the trek is genuine village life with Gurung families.
Best for: Trekkers who add an extra night at the end for cultural experience before returning to Pokhara.
Accommodation Cost Table What You’ll Pay at Each Stop
| Stop | Altitude | No. of Teahouses | Room Cost (USD/night) | Hot Shower | WiFi | Charging |
| Pokhara (hotel) | 900m | Many options | $15–80 | Free | Free | Free |
| Kande / Australian Camp | 1,770–2,060m | 3–5 | $3–8 | Paid (~$2) | Limited | Available |
| Deurali | 2,100m | 2–3 | $3–6 | Bucket shower | None | Solar |
| Forest Camp | 2,600m | 7 | $5–15 | Bucket shower (~$2–3) | Paid (~$2) | Paid (~$2) |
| Low Camp | 2,985m | 2–4 | $3–8 | Rare | Unreliable | Solar |
| High Camp | 3,580m | 14 | $7–12 | Not available | Not available | Solar only |
| Mardi Himal Base Camp | 4,200–4,500m | 0 | N/A no rooms | None | None | None |
| Siding / Lwang | 1,700m | 3–5 homestays | $3–8 | Available | Limited | Available |
Note: All prices in USD are approximate. NPR equivalents: $1 = approximately NPR 132 (May 2026). Prices increase 10–20% in the October peak season.
Room Types What Are Your Options?
Twin-Sharing Rooms (Standard)
The most common room type across all teahouses on the Mardi route.
Two single beds (sometimes two beds pushed together), foam mattress, pillow, blankets.
No attached bathroom shared toilet block outside or within the building.
Cost advantage: Cheapest option per person.
Privacy note: Walls are typically thin plywood and bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Dormitory / Shared Rooms (4–6 Beds)
More common at Forest Camp and High Camp in peak season when twin rooms are full.
Shared with 3–5 other trekkers, typically strangers you’ll meet on the trail.
Lower cost per person is sometimes the only option during October peak.
Tip: Arrive early to claim a lower bunk, which is easier to access in the dark for early morning starts.
Private Rooms (Limited Availability)
Available at Forest Camp and some lower stops not guaranteed at High Camp.
Usually the same room quality as twin-sharing but with no roommate.
Extra cost: approximately USD $5–10 more per night.
Must request in advance through your trekking agency cannot be guaranteed without prior arrangement.
Available in off-season more frequently than peak season (peak season means all rooms filled).
What You WON’T Find on the Mardi Himal Trek
| Facility | Available? | Notes |
| Attached private bathroom | No | All bathrooms shared; most are outdoor |
| Flush toilets above Forest Camp | Rare | Squat toilets are standard |
| Hot shower above Low Camp | No | Bucket showers below; none above |
| 24-hour electricity | No | Solar only; goes out after dark or on cloudy days |
| Reliable WiFi above Forest Camp | No | Assume no WiFi at Low Camp and High Camp |
| ATM on the trek | No | Carry all cash from Pokhara; no ATMs on the route |
| Room heater | No | Dining room wood stove is the only heat source |
| Western-style bed | No | Foam mattresses on wooden frames are standard |
| Laundry service | None | Hand-wash only; pack moisture-wicking clothes |
| Menu variety above Forest Camp | Limited | Dal bhat, noodles, soups, eggs basic but nutritious |
What to Pack Because of Accommodation Conditions
Sleeping bag: Non-negotiable for High Camp rated to at least -5°C to -10°C. Thin blankets are not enough on cold nights.
Sleeping bag liner: Adds warmth and hygiene; compact and lightweight.
Earplugs: Thin walls at teahouses mean noise travels. A fellow trekker’s alarm at 4am is everyone’s alarm.
Headlamp: Essential for bathroom trips at night and early base camp mornings. Bring spare batteries.
Towel (quick-dry): Teahouses do not provide towels.
Flip flops / sandals: For shared bathroom use a basic hygiene essential.
Power bank: Charging at High Camp is unreliable. A fully charged power bank is your backup.
Cash (NPR): No ATMs on the trail. Carry enough for accommodation, food, WiFi, showers, and tips for the full trek duration.
Toilet paper: Not always provided carry your own roll.
Hand sanitizer: Shared toilets plus pre-meal hygiene.
Lock: Small padlock for your room door. Teahouse rooms don’t always have secure locks.
Peak Season vs Off-Season How Accommodation Changes
| Factor | Peak Season (Oct, Apr) | Off-Season (Nov–Mar, May–Sept) |
| Room availability | Limited arrive early | Plentiful almost always rooms available |
| Private rooms | Rarely available | Often available without surcharge |
| Prices | 10–20% higher | Standard or negotiable |
| Teahouse services | All fully open | Some stops may have limited hours |
| Crowd in dining room | Busy, social, noisy | Quiet, peaceful, personal |
| Booking in advance | Strongly recommended | Not usually necessary |
| WiFi reliability | Often slower (more users) | Better per-device speed |
| Bedding quality | Standard (blankets provided) | Same standard; fresher in low season |
October booking tip: There is no centralized online booking for Mardi Himal teahouses. Your trekking agency can call ahead to specific lodges and reserve rooms, especially at High Camp and Forest Camp. This is worth doing for October travel.
Off-season tip: Early December and late February offer a beautiful balance of quiet trails, excellent views, affordable teahouses, and almost no competition for rooms.
Solo Trekkers vs Groups Accommodation Differences
If you’re trekking solo:
- Expect to share a twin room with another solo trekker in peak season teahouses routinely pair solo travelers together to maximize rooms
- Private rooms may be available at an extra charge in off-season worth asking
- Bring earplugs regardless shared rooms and thin walls apply to everyone
- In peak season, arrive at your overnight stop by early afternoon to secure the best room before groups fill the lodge
If you’re trekking in a group:
- Trekking agencies can reserve blocks of rooms in advance use this advantage in peak season
- Groups of four or more often get a dining room table held for their dinner smoother logistics overall
- Larger groups may fill an entire teahouse and effectively have it to themselves in off-season a genuinely special experience
Accommodation for Different Trek Durations
| Trek Duration | Overnight Stops | Accommodation Pattern |
| 3 Days | Forest Camp x1, High Camp x1 | Minimalist pack sleeping bag, plan for basic only |
| 5 Days (standard) | Deurali/Australian Camp, Forest Camp, High Camp, Low Camp (descent) | Full range of teahouse comfort levels |
| 7 Days (extended) | Adds Siding homestay, extra night at Forest Camp | More comfort nights; cultural homestay experience |
| 9 Days (full circuit) | Full range plus Pokhara nights before/after | Most comfortable overall; buffer for bad weather |
Conclusion: Simple Accommodation, Extraordinary Experience
The Mardi Himal Trek is not a luxury accommodation trek and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Every teahouse on the route is run by a local Gurung or Magar family. Your room cost directly supports the community.
The gap between Forest Camp comfort and High Camp basics is large packing right (especially a sleeping bag) makes all the difference.
The teahouse dining rooms are warm, full of other trekkers, smelling of dal bhat and ginger tea are among the most memorable parts of the trek experience.
Plan for the basics. Pack for the cold. Arrive early in peak season. And you’ll sleep just fine every night on this route.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of accommodation is available on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Accommodation is entirely in local family-run teahouses. Main overnight stops are Forest Camp (2,600m), Low Camp (2,985m), and High Camp (3,580m). All teahouses offer basic twin-sharing rooms with foam mattresses, blankets, and shared bathrooms.
How much does accommodation cost on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Room costs range from USD $3 to $15 per night depending on altitude and season. Forest Camp rooms average $5–15. Low Camp rooms cost $3–8. High Camp rooms cost $7–12. Prices are 10–20% higher during October peak season.
Do I need a sleeping bag for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes a sleeping bag is strongly recommended, especially for High Camp (3,580m). Teahouses provide blankets, but at High Camp, night temperatures drop sharply and blankets are often insufficient. A sleeping bag rated to -5°C to -10°C is ideal.
Is there WiFi available on the Mardi Himal Trek?
WiFi is available at Forest Camp and some lower stops. It’s solar-powered and costs approximately NPR 200–400 per device. At Low Camp, connectivity is unreliable. At High Camp, WiFi is generally not available. Assume you’ll be offline from Low Camp upwards.
Are there private rooms on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Private rooms are available at some teahouses in Forest Camp and lower stops, but not guaranteed especially during October peak season. Private rooms typically cost USD $5–10 more per night. At High Camp, private rooms are rare.
Can you book Mardi Himal Trek teahouses in advance?
Teahouses don’t have centralized online booking. Your trekking agency can contact specific lodges by phone to reserve rooms particularly valuable for High Camp and Forest Camp during October. If trekking independently in peak season, arrive by early afternoon (2:00–3:00pm) to secure a room.
What is the accommodation like at High Camp on the Mardi Himal Trek?
High Camp (3,580m) has 14 teahouses. Rooms are basic twin-sharing with thin plywood walls, foam mattresses, and blankets. No attached bathrooms, hot showers, or reliable WiFi or electricity. Night temperatures drop sharply. A sleeping bag is essential.
Where do you stay the night before Mardi Himal Base Camp?
All trekkers stay at High Camp (3,580m) the night before the base camp hike. There is no permanent accommodation at Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,200–4,500m) it’s accessed as a day hike from High Camp, typically starting at 4:00–5:00am.