Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal? The Rising Trend of Alternative Treks and What It Means for ABC

In recent years, trekking culture in Nepal has seen a noticeable shift. Where Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) once stood almost unchallenged as the crown jewel of mid-range Himalayan treks, new contenders are quietly gaining ground. One such competitor is Mardi Himal Trek, a trail that has surged in popularity among both Nepali and foreign trekkers.

This rise in alternative treks poses a big question: Is ABC losing its charm—or are we witnessing a healthy evolution in Nepal’s trekking landscape?

This article explores the growing trend of choosing Mardi Himal over ABC, its reasons, implications, and what it means for trekkers, locals, and the future of Himalayan tourism in Nepal. Written from a local and experienced trekker’s perspective, this analysis aims to go beyond surface comparisons and dig into the deeper changes reshaping our trails.

1. A Tale of Two Treks: Understanding the Core Difference

At first glance, Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal may seem similar—they’re both located in the Annapurna region, both begin from Pokhara, and both offer majestic Himalayan views. But the experience they offer is quite different.

• ABC is longer (7–10 days), reaches a higher altitude (4,130m), and includes village stays in places like Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali. It offers close-up views of Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.

• Mardi Himal is shorter (4–6 days), quieter, and more forested, ending at around 4,500m, with dramatic ridgeline views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) up close.
  

Analysis: Many first-time or short-time trekkers, especially domestic ones, are choosing Mardi because it promises a “high-altitude experience” without the longer time and physical demand of ABC. It’s the fast track to the mountains—but with trade-offs.

2. Why Mardi Himal is Rising: Convenience, Cost, and Crowd Factor

Let’s break down the three main reasons why more people are opting for Mardi Himal:

• Shorter Duration: With limited time off, especially for students and working professionals in Kathmandu or Pokhara, a 5-day trek is more manageable than a 10-day one. Mardi fits perfectly in long weekends or short holidays.

• Lower Cost: Fewer days means fewer expenses—on accommodation, food, and gear. Even if you hire a guide or porter, Mardi ends up being budget-friendly.

• Less Crowded: ABC is a globally popular trek, and during peak season, the trail can feel like a human highway. In contrast, Mardi offers solitude and a more peaceful experience—something many nature lovers value.
  

In conversations with fellow Nepali trekkers, I often hear this line: “ABC jasto view ta chha, tara tyesto bhelaa bhid chaina (It has views like ABC, but without that massive crowd).”

3. Social Media & the “Insta-Trail” Boom

Another major influence behind Mardi’s rise is Instagram and TikTok. The narrow ridgelines, early morning sunrises, and Fishtail’s imposing shadow have become favorite backdrops for reels and selfies.

Whereas ABC’s photos have become common or repetitive on social media, Mardi still feels ‘fresh’ and unexplored, especially among Nepali youth. It’s become a symbol of aesthetic adventure with minimal investment.

But here’s the risk: when treks become trends, we often focus more on the “content” and less on the “context.” Mardi Himal is beautiful, but it’s also fragile, and over-tourism without proper management can damage its ecosystem.

4. What This Trend Means for ABC Trek

ABC is not going away anytime soon. It still holds its status as one of the most scenic and rewarding treks in Nepal. But the shift to alternatives like Mardi is forcing us to rethink how we present and preserve ABC.

Some notable impacts:

• Better Crowd Management: With a portion of trekkers choosing Mardi, ABC trails are slightly less congested, allowing for a more immersive experience.

• Longer Treks for Serious Trekkers: ABC is gradually becoming more popular among serious trekkers who are ready to commit time and effort—not just casual hikers.

• Local Economies Adapting: Villages on the ABC trail, like Chhomrong and Sinuwa, are investing in better hospitality and safety to maintain their importance. But they also face economic fluctuations if tourism shifts rapidly to newer routes.
  

5. Mardi Isn’t Without Challenges

While Mardi Himal may seem perfect, it has its own set of issues that trekkers often realize only after stepping on the trail.

• Limited Infrastructure: Tea houses are fewer, and accommodation gets packed quickly during peak season. Some trekkers end up sleeping in dining halls due to lack of space.

• Weather Unpredictability: The ridgelines can get foggy and windy, with fewer forest covers at higher altitudes. Views can disappear in a matter of minutes.

• Navigation Confusion: Without a guide, the Mardi route can be confusing in off-season or during bad weather. Signboards are fewer, and wrong turns can happen.
  

As someone who has done both treks, I can say this: Mardi offers intensity, but ABC offers depth. ABC isn’t just about views—it’s a journey through culture, ecology, and raw altitude challenge. Mardi is an adrenaline shot; ABC is a slow brew.

6. Should You Choose ABC or Mardi? Our Honest Suggestion

Let’s break it down for different types of trekkers:

• First-Time Trekkers (Nepali Youth): If you want a quick Himalayan experience and have never trekked before, Mardi is a good starter. But go with proper gear and mindset—it’s still a high-altitude trail.

• Those Who Have Done Mardi: It’s time to level up. ABC will test your endurance and reward you with immersive cultural encounters.

• Trekkers with 7+ Days: Don’t hesitate—choose ABC. Or better yet, combine both in a loop trek that starts from Mardi and connects to ABC via Landruk or Jhinu Danda.

• Looking for Peace: Mardi still has the upper hand, but only in early or off-seasons. ABC is more regulated but still crowded during peak months.
  

7. Sustainability: Are We Prepared for This Shift?

The rising popularity of Mardi Himal teaches us one lesson loud and clear: we need sustainable tourism practices before trends spiral out of control. The government and local bodies should:

• Implement waste management systems on Mardi trail

• Provide training to local guides and lodge owners

• Cap daily trekkers during peak seasons, if necessary

• Promote off-season and lesser-known trails like Khopra Ridge or Mohare Danda to distribute traffic
  

ABC, on the other hand, needs rejuvenation through eco-tourism, digital promotion, and modernized guest experiences to retain its iconic status.

Conclusion: It’s Not a Competition, It’s a Choice

ABC and Mardi Himal are not enemies—they’re chapters of the same story: Nepal’s majestic Himalayas welcoming those who seek adventure. As more alternative treks like Khopra Danda, Poon Hill loops, and Mohare emerge, we should see this not as a threat to classic treks like ABC but as an evolution of Nepal’s trekking identity.

For trekkers, the choice between ABC and Mardi comes down to what you want from the mountains—a quick thrill or a meaningful challenge. For locals and tourism planners, this trend is a signal to diversify, invest in sustainability, and preserve the trails we love.

So whether you choose the legendary path to Annapurna Base Camp or the rising trail to Mardi Himal, just remember one thing: the mountain doesn’t care which trek you choose—but it will always demand respect.