Mardi Himal Trek

based on 6 reviews
Mardi Himal Trek
At a Glance
  • Trip Duration11 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 4,200m
  • Starts at Pokhara
  • Ends at Pokhara
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Activities Trekking
  • Best Time Spring (march-may) Autumn (Sept-Nov)
Highlights
  • A short but challenging trek that offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range and Machhapuchhre
  • Experience the best of the Annapurna region on this offbeat trek
  • Traverse through dense rhododendron forests, cross suspension bridges over small streams and rushing rivers
  • Push yourself physically with steep climbs and descents
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture while spending nights in the remote villages
  • Witness stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes
  • Ideal option for travelers with limited time who want to experience the Himalayas' magnificence
  • Support local tourism and helps generate income for the local community

"Experience the best of the Annapurna region with the Mardi Himal trek, a short but challenging route that offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range and Machhapuchhre. Traverse through dense rhododendron forests, cross suspension bridges over small streams, and push yourself physically with steep climbs and descents. Spend nights in remote villages where you can immerse yourself in the local culture."

The Mardi Himal trek is a well-kept secret of the Annapurna region, lying just to the east of the famous Annapurna Base Camp trek. Fewer trekkers venture towards the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which sits majestically at the base of Mardi Himal and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The Mardi Himal trek route meanders through lush rhododendron forests, following narrow paths and involves gradual climbing.

Starting at 2,000 m/6,562 ft (Mahabhir), the Mardi Himal trail goes through dense forests and rugged hillsides to High Camp at 3,550 m/11,647 ft before ascending to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m/14,764 ft. The Mardi Himal Base Camp offers stunning and up-close views of the entire Annapurna range (8,091 m/26,545 ft) along with many other mountains like Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), etc.

The Mardi Himal trek's short duration makes it an ideal option for travelers with limited time, who want to experience the Himalayas' magnificence. The Mardi Himal trek is a great way to escape the city's hustle and bustle and connect with nature. The trek also supports local tourism and helps generate income for the local community. It is an eco-friendly way to explore the beauty of the Himalayas while preserving the environment.

The Mardi Himal trek, 11 days, is suitable for people of all ages if they have a reasonable level of fitness. The trekking route's elevation gain is gradual, which allows for adequate acclimatization. However, we recommended consulting your doctor before embarking on the Mardi Himal trekking to be aware of any potential health issues.

Why should you do the Mardi Himal trek?

The Mardi Himal base camp trek has come a long way since it was first discovered by a handful of adventurous trekkers. In 2012, the route was officially opened to the public, and since then, it has gained immense popularity among trekkers from all over the world.

One of the main reasons for its popularity is the fact that it can be completed in just five days. This makes it an ideal trek for travelers who have a shortage of time but still want to experience the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas. And the stunning views along the way make it all the more worthwhile.

The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from stone-made stairs to dense forests to rocky pathways to snowy slopes. The diversity of the terrain makes the Mardi Himal trek in Nepal a truly unique trekking experience. And, of course, the breathtaking views of the mountains and landscapes are the icing on the cake.

Another great thing about the Mardi Himal trekking is that it can be combined with other treks in the region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Poon Hill Trek, and Khopra Danda Trek. This makes it an excellent choice for trekkers who want to explore more of the Annapurna region while they are in Nepal.

What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal trek?

The best time to do the Mardi Himal trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. The months of March, April, and May offer the ideal weather conditions for trekking. The temperature is mild, and the skies are clear, which offers stunning views of the mountains. The autumn months of September, October, and November are also great for trekking as the weather is dry, and the visibility is excellent.

The peak trekking season in Nepal is during April and May, which makes the trekking routes crowded. If you prefer solitude and quiet trails, you may want to consider trekking during the off-season. The monsoon season, which falls between May to September, should be avoided as the trails can be muddy and slippery, making it hazardous to trek.

The winter months of December to February are freezing, and the number of trekkers is minimal. However, if you are up for the challenge, trekking during winter can be a unique experience. If you plan to trek during the off-season, feel free to get in touch with us anytime. We will organize the best Mardi Himal trek for you in the winter season.

Alternative trekking packages in Nepal

If you are looking for more trekking packages like Mardi Himal, then we highly recommend the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, Langtang Valley trek, Everest View trek, and Jomsom Muktinath trek.

Likewise, if you are up for a bit of a challenge and want to push yourself, we recommend the Everest base camp trek, Langtang Gosaikunda trek, and Annapurna base camp trek. For beginner trekkers, these trekking packages will be best: Everest three high passes trek, Annapurna circuit trek, Manaslu circuit trek, and Upper Mustang trek.

Why should you do the Mardi Himal trek with A1 Excursion?

We have the best Mardi Himal trek package with ample acclimatization period and comprehensive service. As we have been working in the travel and tour industry of Nepal for more than two decades, you will get authentic service with us. Our trekking guides are highly experienced and knowledgeable. We offer many complimentary services in our Mardi Himal trek cost. A few of them are mentioned below:

  • Free airport pick-up and drop-off as per the itinerary
  • Duffel bag and down jacket for trekking (to be returned at the end of the trek)
  • No hidden charge
  • 24/7 support
  • 100% guaranteed trip departure
  • Safety assurance
  • Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu

Join us on our Mardi Himal trek 2023/2204 departure and make your dream of trekking in the Himalayas come true! To know more about the trek, feel free to contact us anytime.

You'll See
Magic Mardi Himal Trek
Itinerary
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Our team will pick you up from the airport upon your arrival. They will transfer you to the hotel and brief you on the day program. We usually keep the arrival day of our guests free. In the evening, we will gather for a welcome dinner and also prepare for the trek.

  • Accommodation:Hotel

After a satisfying breakfast, we will begin our journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive continues to the quaint hill village of Lumle. From here, we start our trek by walking through beautiful terraces and lush forests. Along the way, we are blessed with breathtaking views of the majestic Annapurna Himalayan range. After a few hours of trekking, we reach the small yet charming village of Mahabir, where we will be spending the night.

  • Max. Altitude:2,000 m/6,562 ft
  • Trip Duration:7 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Starting from the small farm village, we will walk uphill, following a stone-paved path for a while before entering a dense forest. This path is rarely taken by trekkers, making it a hidden gem of a trek. As we slowly walk, the trail leads us to Pritam Deurali (2,050 m). From Pritam Deurali, we can see superb views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, etc.

The trail ascends to Deurali and heads off the beaten track into a dense forest filled with rhododendrons, oaks, and pine trees. After a few hours of gradual uphill trekking, we will reach Kokar, also known as Forest Camp.

  • Max. Altitude:2,550 m/8,366 ft
  • Trip Duration:5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

As we continue our ascent toward Low Camp, the forest begins to change. We'll see more rhododendrons. At Low Camp, we will find four lodges, a testament to the growing popularity of this route. While regular fit trekkers should find this part of the trek challenging yet manageable, beginners or moderate trekkers may find it long and demanding.

  • Max. Altitude:3,050 m/10,006 ft
  • Trip Duration:4-5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

A challenging but rewarding climb through the stunning rhododendron forest for about 1.5 hours will lead us to Middle Camp and then to Badal Danda. This vantage point offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal itself.

Continuing for about an hour or so above Low Camp, the trail breaks out above the treeline, and towards the west, we'll be treated to a splendid view of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

As we proceed along the Mardi Himal ridge, the trail will mainly be on grass, with occasional isolated rhododendron bushes along the way. The lodge at High Camp is larger than the ones at Low Camp and Forest Camp.

  • Max. Altitude:3,550 m/11,647 ft
  • Trip Duration:4-5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

We will wake up early in the morning and hike to the Mardi Himal base camp to witness a gorgeous sunrise. The trail winds through the lush green grasslands and steep rugged tracks. On the way, we may get to see dzokpo, the crossbreed between yaks and cows, as well as the beautiful Danphe pheasant.

Upon reaching the base camp, we will get to see the stunning view of the south face of Annapurna and all the peaks in the Annapurna Sanctuary, including Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, etc.

After enjoying the view, we will then retrace our steps back to High Camp for lunch and continue descending to Low Camp. We will be retracing the trail back to the Low Camp to spend the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4,500 m/14,764 ft
  • Trip Duration:7-8 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

As we make our way back, we opt for a different path, thereby completing a circuit. Instead of retracing our steps back to Kokar via Mardi Himal, we take the trail leading down to Siding from Low Camp. Siding is a traditional Nepalese village that remains unaffected by the hustle and bustle of modern tourist treks.

Starting from Siding, we will take a pleasant stroll toward the lovely villages of Kalimati and Ghalel. While Kalimati is predominantly a Brahmin settlement, Ghalel and Siding have a mix of Brahmin and Gurung residents.

  • Max. Altitude:1,850 m/6,069 ft
  • Trip Duration:4-5 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

After breakfast, we will trek to Hyangjakot Dhital Homestay. Today is a short trekking day, so we will begin the day at a leisure pace and gradually descend through lush forests to our destination of the day.

  • Trip Duration:3-4 hours
  • Accommodation:Teahouse

Today, we will drive to Pokhara. It is a short drive, so we will have the whole day free in Pokhara. It is a great time to visit the spa and relax. Later in the day, we recommend you visit nearby tourist sites and explore the local market. Enjoy sunset at the Phewa Lake and stroll on the bustling Lakeside Market.

  • Max. Altitude:822 m/2,697 ft
  • Trip Duration:1 hour
  • Accommodation:Hotel

After having a delicious breakfast, we will leave our hotel and fly to Kathmandu. The flight will be short and offer beautiful landscapes. Once we land at the airport in Kathmandu, the guide will drive you to the hotel. Spend the remaining day unpacking and resting. Visit a local market and go shopping. We will meet you in the late evening for a farewell dinner.

  • Max. Altitude:1,400 m/4,600 ft
  • Trip Duration:25 minutes
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Today, you will say goodbye to Nepal and fly back to your home. Our team will drop you at the airport as per your flight departure time. Make sure to pack all your belongings and double-check the room before leaving.

    Trip Map
    Mardi Himal Trek map
    Useful Information

    Mardi Himal trek last-minute booking

    If you're looking to book last minute, contact us anytime. We will help you organize and arrange all the essentials for the trek. You need to make full payment of the trek cost, which is also non-refundable. Once we receive the required documents and trip payment from you, our team will begin arranging permits, lodges, transportation, etc.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    The following itinerary is provided for general information purposes only and is subject to change depending on various factors such as weather conditions, group size, and individual abilities. The trekking agency reserves the right to adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Every effort will be made to adhere to the proposed itinerary, but unforeseen circumstances may result in modifications.

    Mardi Himal trek distance

    The Mardi Himal trek distance typically covers 45-50 kilometers (28-31 miles) in total. The trek usually starts from the village of Kande or Lumle and passes through several villages like Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp, before finally reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. Overall, the Mardi Himal trek takes about 5-12 days to complete, depending on the trekker's pace and itinerary.

    Mardi Himal trek difficulty

    The Mardi Himal trekking route is varied and includes dense forests, rocky ridges, and steep inclines. The difficulty level of this trek is considered moderate, with most days involving 5-7 hours of slow hiking. While there is no direct climbing involved, trekkers will need to trek over some rocky sections near High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp.

    Altitude sickness is a risk on this trek as the trail reaches an altitude of 4,500 meters. Trekkers should be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, which include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water and rest well during the trek to avoid altitude sickness.

    Mardi Himal trek preparation

    It is important to have a decent level of fitness as you will be trekking at high altitudes and through challenging terrain. However, the Mardi Himal trek is not a technical climb, so no prior mountaineering experience is required.

    It is highly recommended to see a doctor before embarking on the trek to discuss altitude sickness prevention and overall physical fitness. With 4-7 hours of slow hiking per day, the trek is manageable for those with a moderate fitness level.

    Accommodation & meals during the trek

    You will either stay in tea houses or lodges along the Mardi Himal trekking route. Both options offer simple yet comfortable accommodation with shared facilities. Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara provide more luxurious amenities, such as private bathrooms and hot showers.

    From traditional dishes like dal bhat and masala chai to international cuisines like pizza and burgers, there are plenty of options to satisfy all taste buds on the Mardi Himal trek. It's also easy to stay hydrated with bottled water available along the trail and a variety of hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to keep you warm.

    Mardi Himal trek tips

    • Travel Insurance: Trekking in the Himalayas can pose certain risks, and having insurance coverage can provide much-needed protection in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Investing in travel insurance with emergency evacuation is a smart decision that can give you peace of mind while you trek.
    • Travel Visa: All foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, require a valid visa to enter Nepal. You can apply for a tourist visa online or get one on arrival at the airport in Kathmandu. The visa is valid for 15, 30, or 90 days and can be extended upon arrival in Nepal.
    • ATM & Money Exchange: ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but are not found on the Mardi Himal trek route. Bring enough cash with you to cover expenses during the trek. Money exchange services are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and major currencies such as USD, EUR, and GBP can be exchanged easily.
    • Luggage: When trekking in the Himalayas, it's best to pack light and carry a small backpack with essential items. You can leave your main luggage at the hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara. They will store it for you until you return. The duffel bag weight limit is 10 kg per person, and the backpack weight limit is 5 kg per person.
    • Charging & Internet: Tea houses along the Mardi Himal trek have charging facilities available for a fee or at a minimal cost. Internet access is limited, and the speed may not be reliable in more remote areas. It's best to bring a power bank and download offline maps and entertainment before you start the trek.
    • Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as snacks, water, and souvenirs can add up during the trek. Budget around USD 15-20 per day for these expenses during the trek.
    • Tips: Tipping is not mandatory, but it's a common practice in Nepal to show appreciation for good service. Tip around 10% of the total bill at restaurants and tea houses. For porters and guides, a tip of USD 10-15 per day is considered reasonable.

    WHAT TO BRING

    Trekking/Hiking Gears (Equipment)

    • Duffel or Rucksack bag (If you do not have one, then Duffel Bag Provided Returnable)
    • Down Sleeping Bag (Provided Returnable)
    • Inner Liner (Provided Returnable)
    • Down Jacket (Provided Returnable)
    • Daypack
    • Hiking pants
    • Water & wind proof  jacket
    • Full–sleeve shirt
    • Jumper or Fleece jacket
    • Pair of T–shirts
    • Trekking boots (waterproof is better)
    • Sandal, Toilet paper,
    • COTTON THICK SOCKS(2 PAIRS)+Polypropylene/woolsocks (1PAIRS)
    • Light cotton socks for under wool socks
    • Woolen socks to wear with boots
    • Sun hat
    • Gloves
    • Scarf
    • Sun block (lotion) and lip Guard
    • Moisture Cream
    • Goggles or Sunglasses
    • Thermal Long underwear Sets
    • Insulated pants
    • Trekking poles
    • A pair of crampons
    • wind Breaker pants
    • Water bottle
    • Medical & first aid kit (Provided)
    • Any personal special medicine
    • Flashlight or head lamp
    • Batteries and bulbs
    • Swiss army knife
    • Mobile or Camera charging cable with Adaptor
    • Personal Dry towel
    • Personal toiletries and medication ,which should be labeled.
    FAQs

    • You can do the Mardi Himal trek in 7 to 9 days. Our Mardi Himal trek itinerary is 11 days long that includes your arrival and departure from Kathmandu. The overall trek distance is 45 km to 50 km and can vary as per your itinerary.

    • The Mardi Himal trek is considered a moderate-level trek, with some steep ascents and descents. However, it can be done by people with a reasonable level of fitness and trekking experience. The Mardi Himal trail is a bit offbeat, so get ready for adventure.

    • The starting point of the Mardi Himal trek is usually Kande, which is about a one-hour drive from Pokhara. The trek itself takes 5-7 days to complete from Pokhara, depending on the route taken and the pace of the trekker. As for distance, the Mardi Himal base camp is located 31 km away from Pokhara.

    • The best time to do the Mardi Himal trek is during the Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear and stable, and the views of the mountains and landscapes are at their best. Likewise, you can also do this trek during the Winter (December-February) and Summer (June-August) seasons, although the weather conditions can be more challenging during these months.

    • The total cost of the Mardi Himal trek can vary depending on various factors such as the season, duration of the trek, type of accommodation, mode of transportation, and services included. On average, the cost of the trek can range from USD 500 to USD 1000 per person.

    • Both the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal treks are unique and offer their own set of experiences. The Annapurna Base Camp trek is longer and more challenging, covering a greater distance and altitude. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna massif & a diverse range of landscapes and cultures.

      On the other hand, the Mardi Himal trek is shorter and less challenging but offers equally breathtaking views of the mountains and landscapes. It is also less crowded and offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

    • Yes, the Mardi Himal trek is generally considered safe as long as proper precautions are taken. Acclimatize properly and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness. Follow basic safety measures such as staying on designated trails, avoiding trekking alone, and being aware of weather conditions.

    • During the Mardi Himal trek, you are likely to encounter various animals and birds in their natural habitats. Some of the common animals you may spot include Himalayan tahr, musk deer, langur monkeys, mountain goats, and various species of birds such as pheasants, eagles, and vultures.

      You may also come across domestic animals, such as yaks, cows, and goats in the villages and on the trails. However, sightings of wild animals are not guaranteed as they are elusive and tend to avoid human presence.

    • No, you cannot trek to Mardi Himal without a guide. Trekking alone is banned in Nepal from April 1st, 2023. You can do a group or solo trek with us. A guide will help with navigation, provide information about the local culture and history, and ensure that you are taking appropriate safety precautions.

    • The Mardi Himal trail reaches an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at the Mardi Himal Base Camp. However, the starting point of the trek is at a lower altitude of around 2,000 m/6,562 ft.

    Start fromUS$850(All-inclusive price)
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    • No credit card fee
    • Flexible trip date
    • Secure and easy booking
    • Safety is our top priority
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    Client Reviews
    • V
      Vamsi K

      Amazing!

      Great trek! Adventurous! Great welcome by raj thapa! Made good friends with raj thapa,gokarna and om our trek coordinator/guide/porter respectively..amazing stays high up in the mountains..amazing food up in the mountains..except the prices are high..all in all great experience..challenging..don’t miss roksi when you’re in nepal!

      Posted on May 08, 2023TripAdvisor
    tripadvisor
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