The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering trekkers an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and breathtaking mountain views. This trek is perfect for those looking to explore the less crowded trails of Nepal while enjoying the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.
Panoramic Views and Scenic Mountain Vistas
The Mardi Himal Trek provides unparalleled panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The vantage points on this trek offer some of the best scenic mountain views in Nepal, making it a top choice for those seeking a spectacular Himalayan adventure.
Diverse and Captivating Landscapes
Starting from lush evergreen forests and terraced fields, the trail ascends through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rocky high-altitude terrains. The changing landscapes keep the trek exciting and visually captivating. As you move higher, you will experience the shift from dense forests to open meadows and rugged terrain, each offering its own unique charm.
Experience Traditional Nepalese Culture
As you trek through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, you’ll experience the warm hospitality of the local people and gain insight into their unique cultures and traditions. The villages along the trail have preserved their rich mountain house architecture and age-old customs. This cultural immersion is a significant highlight of the trek, offering a glimpse into traditional Nepalese culture.
Rich Flora and Fauna in Annapurna Conservation Area
The Mardi Himal Trek takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to diverse flora and fauna. You might spot wildlife like the Himalayan Thar, Danphe (the national bird of Nepal), and various other bird species. This region is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers, adding an extra layer of excitement to your trekking adventure.
Peaceful and Secluded Trails:
Compared to other popular Nepal trekking trails, the Mardi Himal Trek is relatively less crowded, providing a peaceful and secluded trekking experience. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking tranquility and solitude in nature. The serene environment allows trekkers to connect deeply with the natural surroundings without the hustle and bustle of crowded trails.
Comfortable Tea House Accommodation
Throughout the trek, you will stay in cozy tea house accommodation. These tea houses offer basic yet comfortable lodging and meals, providing a warm resting place after a day’s trek. The tea houses also offer an opportunity to interact with fellow trekkers and share experiences, adding to the communal aspect of the trek.
High-Altitude Trekking Challenge
The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderately difficult trek, suitable for those with some trekking experience. The trekking distance is around 57 kilometers (35 miles), with the trail reaching a maximum elevation of 3660m at High Camp. The viewpoint is situated at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This high-altitude trekking provides both a physical challenge and a rewarding experience with breathtaking vistas.
Accessibility and Convenience
The trek is easily accessible from Pokhara, making it a convenient option for trekkers. The journey typically starts from Pokhara to Mardi Himal, a popular tourist destination and gateway to many Annapurna trekking routes. This accessibility ensures that you can quickly embark on your trekking adventure without extensive travel.
The Mardi Himal Trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful trekking trails. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast looking for a new adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek provides an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Its unique combination of scenic mountain views, diverse landscapes, and cultural encounters makes it a must-do for anyone trekking in Nepal.
Highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek:
Scenic Mountain Views: Feast your eyes on panoramic vistas of the Annapurna Range, including the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Diverse Landscapes: Traverse through evergreen forests, rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rocky high-altitude terrains.
Traditional Nepalese Culture: Experience the rich cultural heritage of traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
Himalayan Wildlife: Encounter diverse wildlife, including the Himalayan Thar and Danphe, in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Peaceful Trails: Enjoy the serenity of less crowded trails, offering a more intimate connection with nature.
Tea House Accommodation: Stay in cozy tea houses that provide a comfortable resting place after a day’s trek.
High-Altitude Trekking: Reach a maximum elevation of 3660m at High Camp, with the viewpoint at 4,200m offering stunning views.
Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for those with moderate trekking experience, covering a distance of around 57 kilometers (35 miles).
Accessibility: Easily accessible from Pokhara, making it a convenient option for trekkers.
Unspoiled Beauty: Marvel at the unspoiled beauty of the Annapurna region, a true testament to nature’s excellence.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful trekking trails. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast looking for a new adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Mardi Himal Trek Cost:
Begin on the Mardi Himal Trek promises an unforgettable journey amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal’s Annapurna region. Our tailored trek packages offer flexibility and affordability, ensuring an enriching experience for adventurers of all levels.
Our Mardi Himal Trek packages are categorized into bronze, silver, and gold schemes, priced at $500 and $1050 respectively. These packages are designed to cater to varying preferences and budget considerations, providing options for trekkers seeking different levels of comfort and amenities.
Choose Your Adventure:
Whether you opt for our 5-day package or the extended 14-day itinerary, the Mardi Himal Trek promises unparalleled natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Explore the Annapurna region in style and comfort with our affordable and customizable trek packages.
Mardi Himal Trek 5 Days Itinerary:
Day 1: Drive to Kande and Trek to Deurali
Your Mardi Himal Trek begins with a scenic drive to Kande, followed by a trek to Deurali at an elevation of 2,232 meters.
Day 2: Trek to Low Camp
Begin on a picturesque trek to Low Camp, a journey that takes approximately 3 hours through stunning landscapes.
Day 3: Short Walk to High Camp
Enjoy a short yet rewarding walk to High Camp, taking nearly 3 hours, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Day 4: Discover Mardi Himal Base Camp
The highlight of your trek waits as you discover the mesmerizing Mardi Himal Base Camp, immersed in the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Day 5: Return to Pokhara
Conclude your Mardi Himal Trek with a return journey to Pokhara, filled with memories of unforgettable experiences and stunning natural beauty.
Nice to Know:
Best Season for Mardi Himal Trek:
The Mardi Himal Trek offers different experiences depending on the season you choose. Here are the best seasons for this trek:
Spring (March to May):
- The rhododendron forests along the trail burst into bloom, creating a colorful and picturesque landscape.
- The weather is generally mild, with clear skies offering excellent visibility of the surrounding mountains.
- This season is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers who want to capture the vibrant colors of the Himalayan flora.
Autumn (September to November):
- Crisp, clear skies provide stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna Range.
- The weather is stable with mild temperatures during the day and cool nights, making it comfortable for trekking.
- This season is ideal for trekkers who prefer pleasant weather conditions and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Both spring and autumn are considered the best seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek, offering different but equally rewarding experiences. Whether you want to witness blooming rhododendrons or enjoy panoramic mountain views, these seasons provide the perfect backdrop for your Himalayan adventure.
Essential Permits for Your Mardi Himal Trek Adventure in Nepal:
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need two permits: the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Here’s an overview of each permit:
TIMS Card:
- The TIMS card is a mandatory permit for all trekkers in Nepal, including the Mardi Himal Trek.
- It helps in maintaining a record of trekkers and ensuring their safety during the trek.
- There are two types of TIMS cards: Green for individual trekkers and Blue for organized trekkers (traveling with a trekking agency).
- You can obtain the TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You’ll need your passport, visa, and two passport-sized photos to apply for the card.
- The cost of the TIMS card varies based on the type (Green or Blue) and seasonality (peak or off-peak).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
- The ACAP is specifically required for treks in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Mardi Himal Trek.
- It is issued by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) and helps in preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Annapurna region.
- You can obtain the ACAP from the NTNC office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or from the entry checkpoints along the trekking route.
- Like the TIMS card, you’ll need your passport, visa, and passport-sized photos to apply for the ACAP.
- The cost of the ACAP varies based on your nationality and the seasonality of your trek.
It’s important to obtain these permits before starting your trek as they are required for trekking in the Annapurna region and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Starting and Ending Point
The trek usually starts from Kathmandu and ends in Pokhara, a popular tourist destination and gateway to the Annapurna region.
Temperature Ranges:
The average maximum temperature at Mardi Lower Base Camp is around 21 degrees Celsius, providing pleasant daytime temperatures for trekking activities. On the other hand, the minimum temperature can drop to as low as -5 degrees Celsius, especially during the colder months.
Optimal Visibility:
The relatively cool to mild climate at Mardi Lower Base Camp ensures excellent visibility, particularly during the daytime. Trekkers can enjoy clear views of the surrounding landscapes, lush greenery, and majestic mountains, creating a picturesque and memorable trekking experience.
Effortless Trekking Experience with Porter and Guide Services:
During your trekking adventure with us, our dedicated porters and Guide will handle the transportation of your luggage. You can enjoy the journey without the burden of carrying heavy bags; all you need is a small day pack for your personal essentials such as your camera, water bottle, and sun cream.
Guide Allocation for Enhanced Support: For groups of up to 6 participants, we allocate one experienced guide to provide personalized support and guidance throughout the trek. Larger groups of over 6 participants are assigned an associate guide, ensuring adequate assistance for everyone. Depending on the group size, we may assign additional guides or divide the group into sub-groups for a seamless trekking experience.
Porter Service for Luggage Management: We understand the importance of a hassle-free trekking experience, which is why we provide one porter for every two clients. Each porter is responsible for carrying two clients’ duffel bags, with a weight limit of 20 kilograms or 10 kilograms per client. Additionally, upon request and for an additional cost, we can arrange for one porter to carry the duffel of a single participant, lightening the load for individual trekkers.
Optimal Weight Management and Support: Our porter and guide services are designed to enhance your trekking experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion without worrying about luggage or navigation challenges. Trust our experienced team to ensure a comfortable and memorable journey throughout your Mardi Himal Trek.
Hot Showers and Drinking Water Tips for Mardi Himal Trek:
Hot Showers:
Tea houses along the trekking route offer hot boiled water for a small fee, typically ranging from USD 2 to USD 5 per liter. Keep in mind that prices may vary, especially at higher altitudes where resources are scarcer.
Drinking Water:
You can easily find bottled water at lodges and teahouses along the trail. The cost per liter ranges from USD 2 at lower elevations to around USD 4 at higher altitudes. Staying hydrated is crucial, so ensure you have an adequate supply of water throughout your trek.
Water Purification:
If you prefer to drink normal water and reduce plastic waste, using purification tablets or drops is highly recommended. You can bring your own water purifier or purchase purification products in Kathmandu before starting your trek. Ensuring safe and clean drinking water is essential for your health and well-being during the journey.
Travel Insurance for Mardi Himal Trek:
The Mardi Himal Trek is an exhilarating adventure, yet it’s essential to prepare for any unexpected situations that may arise along the way. While the Mardi Trek is classified as moderate with a low risk of altitude sickness, various unforeseen events like injury, illness, natural disasters such as floods or landslides, and sudden weather changes can occur during the trek. Therefore, having adequate travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers undertaking the Mardi Himal Trek.
To ensure your safety and well-being, all trekkers are required to provide a copy of their travel insurance policy certificate to Epic Trek Nepal before commencing the trek. Your travel insurance policy must encompass comprehensive coverage, including medical expenses, emergency repatriation, helicopter rescue, and evacuation costs, particularly at high altitudes where access to medical facilities may be limited.
Although we do not sell insurance directly, we can recommend reputable insurance companies based on our clients’ experiences. It’s crucial to review your insurance policy details thoroughly and ensure it meets the requirements for trekking in remote mountainous regions like Mardi Himal.
We would like to request that you share detailed information about your insurance policy with us after booking the trek. In case of emergencies during the trek, having your insurance information readily available allows us to facilitate fast and efficient rescue operations if needed.
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and proper travel insurance coverage plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in the Mardi region.
Mardi Himal Trek Gear Guide:
- Backpack:
- Comfortable backpack with adjustable straps (40-70 liters).
- Footwear:
- Hiking boots with ankle support.
- Lightweight camp shoes or tennis shoes for relaxing.
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (long-sleeve and short-sleeve).
- Insulating layers: Heavy fleece or down jacket.
- Waterproof shell with a hood.
- Lightweight windbreaker.
- Waterproof pants.
- Sturdy trekking pants (2 pairs).
- Comfortable hiking shorts.
- Moisture-wicking underwear (10 pairs).
- Long underwear (2 sets).
- Multiple pairs of moisture-wicking hiking socks (10 pairs).
- Warm thermal socks (1 pair).
Accessories:
- Trekking poles (collapsible for stability).
- Lightweight headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
- Durable water bottles or a hydration system (2 liters).
- Gloves (light inner gloves and insulated wool or down mittens/gloves).
- UV-protective sunglasses.
- Broad-brimmed hat for sun protection.
- Neck gaiter or bandana.
- Wool hat or balaclava for colder weather.
- Gaiters (required during Dec-Feb).
- Optional sweatshirt for additional warmth.
- Optional sock liners for added comfort.
Other Essentials:
- First Aid Kit:
- Comprehensive kit including basic medications and blister treatment.
Sun Protection:
- High SPF sunscreen.
- Moisturizing lip balm with SPF.
Insect Protection:
- Effective insect repellent.
- Towels and Toiletries:
- Quick-drying travel towel.
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.).
- Documents and Money:
- Copy of passport and identification.
- Sufficient local currency.
- Snacks and Hydration:
- High-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars, chocolates).
- Water purification tablets or a portable water purifier.
- Navigation and Communication:
- Trekking map or guidebook.
- Mobile phone with a local SIM card and emergency contact numbers.
Optional Gear:
- Trekking pole accessories (rubber tips, snow baskets, etc.).
- Camera and accessories.
- Inflatable travel pillow.
- Earplugs.
- Journal and pen.
Emergency Items:
- Lightweight emergency shelter or space blanket.
- Duct tape for quick gear repairs.
- Plastic bags for organizing and protecting items.
- Trash bags for carrying out waste.
This list is comprehensive, so adjust it based on your personal preferences, the season you’re trekking, and any specific requirements you may have. Remember to pack light while ensuring you have all the essential gear for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Itinerary
Welcome to the vibrant capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. As you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our friendly representative will be there to greet you. They'll assist you with your transfer to your hotel. Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey.
Kathmandu, a city that seamlessly blends art, culture, history, and religion, awaits your exploration. Embark on a guided tour of some of the city's most renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit iconic landmarks such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk around the bustling main tourist hub of Kathmandu. Begin preparations for your upcoming trek, ensuring you're well-equipped for the adventure.
Your trekking adventure begins as you rise early to embark on a picturesque drive to the captivating city of Pokhara. Located at an elevation of 827 meters, Pokhara is one of Nepal's most sought-after tourist destinations. Its serene lakes, lush surroundings, and awe-inspiring backdrop of snow-capped peaks make it a true gem. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Pokhara.
The trekking phase of your journey commences with a scenic drive. After approximately an hour on the road, you'll arrive at the starting point of your trek. The trail leads you through enchanting forests to Australian Camp, an ideal vantage point to witness the Annapurna and Fishtail mountain ranges. Continuing from Australian Camp, you'll embark on a gentle climb to reach Pitam Deurali via Pothana. En route, marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Fishtail and Annapurna Mountains. Your night will be spent at Pitam Deurali (2100m).
Bid farewell to Pitam Deurali and set out on your trek. The day's journey takes you through mixed forests, offering a gradual uphill trail. Though mountain views won't be in sight today, you'll find yourself surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Reach your destination for the day, Forest Camp (2550m), where you'll stay overnight in a cozy tea house.
Today's adventure leads you into the heart of the forest. The first two hours involve a steep ascent amidst the lush woods. Following this, a gradual uphill trail takes you to Lower Camp. While many trekkers choose to spend the night at Lower Camp, you'll continue onward for an additional half-hour to reach Bander Danda. Here, you'll be rewarded with stunning mountain views at an altitude of 3100 meters. Overnight accommodation is provided in a comfortable tea house.
Wake up to clear views of the Fishtail Mountain. Leaving the dense jungle behind, you'll continue your journey with a gradual uphill trail along the carpeted ridges and slopes. Along the way, soak in the breathtaking vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and more. As the day comes to a close, you'll reach High Camp (3600m), where you'll spend the night in a tea house.
Today's adventure begins a little earlier than usual. The trail starts with a leisurely walk, featuring some steep steps and ridges. Upon reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500m), you'll be greeted by a jaw-dropping panorama. Take your time to explore the area and absorb the majestic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and the prominent Mardi Himal. Afterward, you'll descend to High Camp for a comfortable night's rest.
It's time to retrace your steps back to Forest Camp. The landscapes and views remain as enchanting as ever. The downhill trail makes for a relatively easy day of trekking. You'll spend the night at Forest Camp (2550m), surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.
Departing from Forest Camp, you'll descend towards Landruk, altering your route for a change of scenery. As you descend, you'll notice shifts in landscapes and flora. Throughout the day, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the breathtaking mountain vistas. You'll spend the night in Landruk (1565m) in a welcoming tea house.
Your final day of trekking commences with a steep downhill trail leading to the Modi River. After crossing the river, you'll encounter a final uphill walk before transitioning to a gradual and easy trail. Ultimately, you'll reach the city of Pokhara, where you can rest and reflect on your remarkable journey.
With your trekking adventure behind you, it's time to explore the magnificent city of Pokhara. Discover Pokhara's natural beauty with visits to the World Peace Stupa, incredible caves, serene lakes, and the Barahi Temple situated in the middle of Fewa Lake. This day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Early in the morning, you'll commence your journey back to Kathmandu. Take this time to reminisce about the unforgettable experiences and memories you've created. Your night will be spent in Kathmandu.
As your adventure in Nepal draws to a close, you'll drive to the airport for your departure flight.