The Mardi Himal trek, often referred to as the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, is a short and easy trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek offers a quick escape from the city noise and allows you to immerse yourself in the pristine country air. Mardi Himal, standing tall to the east of Modi Khola, offers breathtaking views of glacial valleys and the surrounding Annapurna region.
One of the highlights of the Mardi Himal trek is the opportunity to witness the stunning snow-capped peaks of Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Machhapuchre (Fishtail), and Annapurna South. The trek also offers a glimpse into the rich cultures of the Nepali Gurung and Magar communities, adding a cultural dimension to your journey.
The Mardi Himal trek is known for its eco-tourism focus, and you’ll encounter quaint teahouses along the way that provide basic facilities for trekkers. The trail meanders through various types of vegetation, enhancing your trekking experience.
The Mardi Himal trek itinerary typically spans 10 days, making it a perfect choice for a quick getaway. This trek takes you on an adventurous off-the-beaten path, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. As you follow the Mardi trek route, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the western Annapurna region, with its dense Rhododendron forests, rocky landscapes, and serene surroundings.
As for the Mardi Himal trek cost, it is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. This trek, launched in 2012, has been gradually gaining popularity for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Overall, the Mardi Himal trek is a short and faultless journey that offers a peaceful escape to the pristine mountains of Nepal. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a novice, this trek in the Annapurna region is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of the majestic Mardi Himal and its high camp, all while enjoying the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness.
Thamel Marga Central Thamel Kathmandu (Google Map)
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
You will be entering Kathmandu, and our agents will be plucking you up at the airport and accompanying you to a motel near Thamel. You can unwind yourself from all the jetlags for some time and have your meal on time. Our agents may stroll you around the Thamel area where you can buy some souvenirs. After that, we will serve you authentic Nepali cuisine as your supper.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
You will be eating your breakfast and commence your day. Then your tour guide will take you for a visit to different and famous places around the valley. You will observe ancient and historical temples and buildings, some heritage sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa. You will have a pre-consultation with our agents and tour guide in the evening.
The day also marks for last trek preparation. There are nearby markets where you can visit and buy some trekking gear as per your requirement.
Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Commence your day with a delicious breakfast in the hotel of Kathmandu. Be ready because our representatives will come to pick you up. Today, we will have a scenic ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The high hills and breathtaking scenery while driving on the highway will make you fall in love with Nepal.
However, if you want to reach Pokhara by flight then we can arrange that for you with extra cost.
Overnight in standard hotel of Pokhara
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
When we reach Pokhara, we will revive ourselves. After you arrive at Pokhara, we will ride for approximately 1 hour to enter Kande. We will be moving through the Pokhara Baglung highway at the starting point of our Trek. After that, you will move through green slopes to reach Kande.
Then we will cross the lush rhododendron jungle. Finally, the trekking route will direct you to Potana. Deurali proceeds along the Modi Khola, located between Annapurna from the south and Mardi Himal. We will be passing through many villages on your way to reaching Deurali. The view of the Annapurna mountain and the Pokhara valley from this vantage point is breathtaking. Finally we will be reaching to Potana
Overnight and Dinner at the Tea house in Potana.
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You will rise early morning, observe an astounding sunrise view, and have an appetizing breakfast at the lodge. Our target for today is Forest Camp. You will be walking from the plains with the marvelous panoramas of Mt Fishtail and Mardi Himal. Those mountains will seem to appear beside you as you climb.
We will stroll through a jungle camp where you may recognize Himalayan Thar, musk deer, etc. You will find not only wildlife species, but you will notice different vegetation. Then, we will finally arrived at the forest camp.
Dinner and Overnight stay in a lodge in forest Camp.
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
We will have a healthy breakfast in the hotel and incline towards High Camp. Then, we will be trekking continuously along the ridge of Mardi Himal. Eventually, you will reach Middle Camp after ascending the lush Rhododendron jungle for about 1.5 hours.
Thus, you will be witnessing an excellent panorama of the majestic Mardi Himal and Machhapuchre. Finally, you will reach High Camp. High Camp allows a perfect viewpoint for spectacular cliffs. There are 6-7 lodges or guesthouses which you will enjoy.
Dinner and Overnight in High Base Camp in tea-house
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After eating our breakfast, we will travel towards your ultimate end, Mardi Base Camp. Mardi base Camp will be the highest and up-most elevation we will be gaining from this Trek. You will enjoy a fascinating glimpse of the Natural environment at the base camp. You will be dazzled by the flora and snow-capped mountains.
We will have sufficient time to travel to Mardi Base camp. Make sure you click pictures and capture beautiful memories. After then, you will eventually retrace back to High Camp. The trail is quite steep and dangerous, so be safe.
Overnight at Low Camp
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Wake up to your last uncluttered destination. From the low camp, you will move to siding at first and then drive to Pokhara.
Get refreshed by the beautiful view of the Siding. We will soon get back to the city. Today, we will ride back to Pokhara by bus or sharing Jeep. Make sure you enjoy the scenic ride. After that, our agents will drop you at your hotel. Then, explore the vicinity of beautiful Pokhara.
Overnight Stay in Pokhara
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Today you will be driving back to Kathmandu. The bus follows the same route as before; you will get to enjoy the view of green hills along with the Trishuli River.
So you can relax and have a great time in Kathmandu for the last time. So make sure you make this day count. Enjoy your day around the wonders of Kathmandu. Make sure you experience the nightlife in Kathmandu. Explore some bars, pubs, motels in the Thamel area. You could also go and buy some souvenirs. In the evening enjoy the farewell dinner including the famous Newari food of Kathmandu.
Dinner and Overnight stay in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy your last day in Nepal. We hope you had good memories with us. At the time of the flight, our people will drop you at the airport. Have a great flight, and choose us if you want to revisit Nepal.
Here are some important notes for the Mardi Himal Trek:
Permits: A trekking permit and a conservation permit are required to trek the Mardi Himal. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or in our Office.
Physical Fitness: The trek is considered moderate and requires a good level of physical fitness. Make sure to prepare well in advance by engaging in regular exercise and endurance training.
Altitude Sickness: Although the trek does not take you to very high altitudes, there is still a risk of altitude sickness. Make sure to acclimatize properly by taking rest days and staying hydrated.
Weather: The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions.
Accommodation: Accommodation along the trek is basic, and you may need to share a room with other trekkers. Bring a warm sleeping bag and layers of clothing for the cold nights.
Food and Water: Bring water purification tablets or a water filter as the water sources along the trail may not be safe to drink. The food served at teahouses is basic, so consider bringing some snacks and energy bars.
Guide and Porter: Hiring a guide and porter is not mandatory for the Mardi Himal Trek, but it’s always recommended. A guide can provide valuable information about the trek and ensure your safety, while a porter can carry your heavy backpack.
Respect the Culture: The Mardi Himal Trek takes you through many traditional villages, so it’s important to respect the local culture and customs. Dress modestly and be respectful towards the locals.
Leave No Trace: Follow the Leave No Trace principles and carry out all trash with you. Respect the environment and leave it as you found it.
By keeping these points in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience on the Mardi Himal Trek.
The Mardi Himal Trek with Nepal Mountain Adventure starts from USD 699 per person including a licensed guide, porter, teahouse accommodation, and three daily meals for the full itinerary from Pokhara and back.
The Mardi Himal Trek is rated moderate in difficulty. Trekkers walk 5 to 6 hours daily through rhododendron and oak forests reaching 4,500 m at Mardi Himal Base Camp, with no technical climbing required and well-marked trails throughout the entire route.
Nepal Mountain Adventure runs the Mardi Himal Trek over 7 to 9 days starting and ending in Pokhara, following the ridge trail through Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp before descending through Sidhing village back to Pokhara.
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). March is especially popular when the rhododendron forests between 2,000 m and 3,500 m along the Mardi Himal ridge burst into brilliant red and pink bloom.
Two permits are needed which are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, USD 30) and the TIMS card (USD 20). Nepal Mountain Adventure arranges both permits in advance so trekkers have no paperwork delays on the first day.
The highest point is 4,500 m at Mardi Himal Base Camp where trekkers get a dramatic face to face view of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m) and Mardi Himal (5,587 m). An optional viewpoint push above base camp reaches around 4,700 m on clear mornings.
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek is significantly less crowded than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek even though both share the Annapurna region. The Mardi Himal trail branches off from the main ABC route early and sees far fewer trekkers, making it ideal for travelers who want solitude and untouched scenery.
From Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m you get an unobstructed up close view of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m) in one sweeping Himalayan panorama.
The risk is relatively low compared to higher Annapurna treks but AMS can still occur above 3,500 m. NMA’s itinerary includes gradual altitude gain through the camp stages and guides carry pulse oximeters to monitor trekkers from High Camp to base camp.
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek combines perfectly with the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek or the Khopra Ridge Trek to create a 12 to 15 day Annapurna region loop. Nepal Mountain Adventure offers custom combination itineraries for trekkers who want to cover more ground in one trip.
I completed the 10-day Mardi Himal Trek as part of a group and it was hands down one of the best trekking experiences of my life. The trail through rhododendron forests, ridge camps, and finally reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters with jaw-dropping views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, and Mardi Himal peak was absolutely breathtaking. This trek is a true hidden gem in the Annapurna region far less crowded but equally stunning.
Our guide and porter were outstanding, professional, caring, and incredibly knowledgeable about the mountains and local Gurung culture. The teahouse food and accommodation along the trail were warm and satisfying, and trekking as a group made the whole experience even more special, sharing sunrises from the ridgeline and cheering each other up the steep ascents.
If you are looking for an authentic Himalayan adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek is 100% worth it. Nepal Mountain Adventure delivered seamless organization and genuine hospitality that made every single day memorable. Highly recommended!
I completed the 10-day Mardi Himal Trek as part of a group and it was hands down one of the best trekking experiences of my life. The trail through rhododendron forests, ridge camps, and finally reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters with jaw-dropping views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, and Mardi Himal peak was absolutely breathtaking. This trek is a true hidden gem in the Annapurna region far less crowded but equally stunning.
Our guide and porter were outstanding, professional, caring, and incredibly knowledgeable about the mountains and local Gurung culture. The teahouse food and accommodation along the trail were warm and satisfying, and trekking as a group made the whole experience even more special, sharing sunrises from the ridgeline and cheering each other up the steep ascents.
If you are looking for an authentic Himalayan adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek is 100% worth it. Nepal Mountain Adventure delivered seamless organization and genuine hospitality that made every single day memorable. Highly recommended!
Very amazing trek. Love the view of mardi himal and more.
Beautiful mountains and scenery. Love the trek. Highly recommended for the nature lovers.
Amazing trip, beautiful view and lovely support from the guide and nmanepal company.
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