Mardi Himal Trek – 12 Days

Per Person From
USD 1,255

66 Reviews in TripAdvisor

Country

Nepal Tour and Trek Packages

Duration

12 Days

Difficulty

Easy

Activity

Trekking

Overview
Itinerary
Includes
Trip Info
FAQs

12 Days Mardi Himal Trek Overview

Mardi Himal Trek is a short and adventurous trek to the Annapurna region's lowest and least visited place. The Himal lies just south of Mt. Machhapuchhre, popularly known as Fishtail Mountain. Few trekkers have visited the valley and its ridge south of Mardi Himal.

Most importantly, the Mardi Himal trek also offers a golden sunrise view over the famous mountain Machhapuchhre. Even though no one has ever climbed it, the Queen of Nepal considers Machhapuchhre, or Fishtail Mountain, sacred. So, your trek in the Annapurna region will show you the most picturesque peaks from many angles.

New Trek is the name of the long-rising ridge. Its summit is at 5,580 m, which forms the southwesterly slope of Mt. Machhapuchhre immediately below its sheer south face. Machhapuchhre towers majestically over the very good valley in Pokhara. This Mountain is as popular as Fishtail Mountain. Because of its twin peaks that mirror the image of the fishtail. The Mountain is superbly beautiful and considered sacred. As a result, authorities have not yet issued any permits to climb this mountain.

We started the Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara. Like on most trekking routes inside the Annapurna Sanctuary, you have several options for where to start and finish the trek. Most people we met on the trek did the Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp trek before the Mardi Himal. Combining the route with one of the other treks in the sanctuary seems quite popular.

Mardi Himal Trek Route From Pokhara

You can drive or take a flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu. From Pokhara, it takes around 45 minutes to drive to Phedi. Phedi is from where you will officially begin your trek. You will slowly climb uphill, passing by terraced fields and green forests. Similarly, you will pass by the village of Dhampus before reaching Pothana.

The village of Pothana lies at an altitude of 1,890 meters (6,200 feet). You will rest at Pothana for a night. The next day’s destination is Forest Camp. You will walk through the luscious forest and pass by the rocky wall. You can get a stunning view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The day’s trek will end when you reach the Forest Camp, situated at an elevation of 2530 meters (8300 feet).

From Forest Camp, you will head to Low Camp the next day. The Low Camp is at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet). The trail takes you through a scenic route. You will pass through a “cloud forest” filled with mosses, lichens, tree ferns, and orchids. Likewise, you can witness the diverse flora and fauna.

You will spend a night at the Low Camp to rejuvenate for the next day’s trek. The next day’s destination is the High Camp at an elevation of 3,550 meters (11,646 feet). It is a short trek with a short climb on a steep slope and a walk along a ridge.

As you move higher, the green forest will change into alpine meadows. You will climb uphill to Mardi Base Camp and return the following day. It is 10 km from High Camp. You will stay at High Camp for the night before returning to Pokhara.

How Difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

Mardi Himal Trek is a moderately challenging route of the Annapurna Region. The trail is also comparatively easy and less challenging. The trek requires 5 to 6 hours a day. It can be quite exhausting and put a physical strain on trekkers. There are many resting places along the trail to ease your journey.

The Mardi Himal Base Camp is at an altitude of 4,500 meters. Trekkers can experience altitude sickness during the trek, so proper rest and acclimatization are important. The Mardi Himal Trek is among the easy routes with moderately challenging trails. With proper preparation, even novice trekkers can easily complete the trek.

Mardi Himal Or Ghorepani Poonhill Trek?

Mardi Himal Trek and Ghorepani Poonhill Trek provide trekkers with unique experiences. The Ghorepani Poonhill route is short and less challenging than Mardi Himal. The highest elevation trekkers will reach during the Ghorepani Poonhill trek is 3,210 meters.

You will reach the highest elevation during the Mardi Himal Trek at 4,500 meters. Likewise, the route is less crowded than the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek. Both treks provide some of the best scenery and mountain views. But the Mardi Himal Trek is the best if you are looking for adventure and a closer look at mountains like Annapurna, Mardi Himal, and Machhapuchhre.

Which Season is Best for Mardi Himal Trek?

Spring

The spring season starts in March, ends in May, and falls in the pre-monsoon season. The weather is warm and pleasant, but the mornings and nights are still cold, especially in the higher elevations. The sky is also clear. Spring is the best time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mardi Himal Trek.

The trail passes through the forests of rhododendrons. During spring, the whole forest is in bloom. You get to travel through the scenic and colorful forest during your trek. Similarly, trekkers can enjoy the clear view of snow-capped mountains. You can witness the spectacular views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail), Mardi Himal, and others.

Spring is a peak season for trekking in Nepal. Therefore, expect spring to bring crowds to the Mardi Himal route. To avoid crowds, you can plan your trek in early springtime.

Autumn

Autumn is another best season for the Mardi Himal Trek. It lies between September and November, the post-monsoon season in Nepal. Autumn has stable and favorable weather for trekking. The temperature is pleasant, and the temperature at the higher elevation is also warm.

Autumn is the harvest season so you can see ripe crops in terraced fields. Since it is post-monsoon, the rain washes away most dust and pollution, so the clear sky provides the best visibility. The trail is also dry with less chance of rainfall, so there are minimal risks of landslides.

Every trekker chooses to travel in the best season. So, the Mardi Himal Trek trail is busiest during the autumn season. As a result, the accommodation can be fully booked at this time. It is best to book the accommodation beforehand.

Duration For Mardi Himal Trek

The duration of the Mardi Himal Trek can vary depending on the trek package. There are packages available for 5 days as well as 7 days. There are even packages for a 3-day Mardi Himal Trek. The duration differs depending on the itinerary. Similarly, the starting and ending point of the trek also affects the duration. So, you can choose the shorter or longer option.

For the best and full experience, we recommend you take the 7-day package. You can trek and enjoy the route. Similarly, you will have enough time to acclimate as you move to higher elevations. But it ultimately boils down to your preference and your time duration.

Contact us at Himalayan Leaders for any queries. We can also help customize your itinerary according to your needs. Explore our packages for the Mardi Himal Trek.

Upon arrival, our representative will greet you, warmly receive you, and assist you in transferring to the hotel. After refreshments, we will briefly discuss the trek’s last-minute specifics in the office.

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

3*/ 4* Hotel

After breakfast, we will start a full-day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu Valley the following day. The sightseeing program introduces some highlights and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

On this day, we can visit the center of pilgrimage, Pashupatinath Temple and Swyambhunath, which are very ancient and essentially enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage sites. The biggest Buddhist Stupa at Boudhanath might make you feel calm and peaceful.

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

3*/ 4* Hotel

Trek Distance

200km (124 miles)

Trek Duration

6/7 hours

Highest Altitude

820m/ 2,690 ft

Early this morning, we will tour Pokhara on the tourist bus. It will take approximately 7 hours to reach Pokhara. While driving, we will see good scenery and the countryside. We will arrive in the late afternoon at Pokhara around 2:00 p.m.

Pokhara is an enchanting Himalayan Valley of remarkable beauty. We can explore its scenic land on foot or our own by boating in Fewa Lake, which overlooks the region of Annapurna Himalayan ranges. In the evening, prepare for the overnight trek in Pokhara. On the way to Pokhara. If you are interested, you can also go rafting.

As an option, we can also take a 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara over the Himalayas.

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

3*/ 4* Hotel in Pokhara

Trek Duration

4 hours

Highest Altitude

1,890m (6,200 ft)

Today, after breakfast, we drive to Phedi. From the Phedi trail, we start ascending through the jungle and highland rice fields, and we generally walk up to the valley of Dhampus and Pothana while exploring.

Brahmins, Chhetris, and a few Gurungs inhabit the area. The trail is more adventurous because it crosses the dirt road several times and uses stone staircases. The spectacular panoramic view of the Annapurna Himalayan range enhances the trip.

Driving Hours: 45 minutes
Driving Distance: 18 km (11.1 miles)

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation

Guest House

Trek Distance

9 km (5.5 miles)

Trek Duration

5 Hours

Highest Altitude

2,530m (8300 ft.)

After enjoying the sunrise and panoramic mountain views from Pothana, we will have breakfast. Today, we start our trek from Pothana to Forest Camp. Our trek gradually starts with walking through a forest and rocky wall and exploring the view of Machhapuchhare and Annapurna Himal.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation

Guest House

Trek Distance

5 km (3.1miles)

Trek Duration

3 hours

Highest Altitude

3,050m/ 10,006 feet

After breakfast, we will begin our trek to reach our destination today. The trail will pass through a classic ‘cloud forest’ with mosses and lichen, tree ferns, and orchids hosted by the hardier trees. The entire forest will present a beautiful display of flora that will refresh and relax our minds.

The windows in the woods look out onto the thrilling panorama – close-up dramatic scenery of sacred Mt. Machhapuchhare, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna chains. A ridge from Low Camp will now be grassy and sometimes under snow, taking us to High Camp. Annapurna South seems near enough to throw a rock at, and Machhapuchare is close enough to touch.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation

Guest House

Trek Distance

4 km (2.5 miles)

Trek Duration

2 hours

Highest Altitude

3,580m/ 11,745 ft

Today, after breakfast, we will head towards High Camp. It is a very short trek; we only need to climb a short, steep slope to escape the forest. Then, we walk along a grass-covered ridge that sometimes has snow. This ridge leads us to High Camp. Annapurna South appears so close that we could throw a rock at it, and Machhapuchare is nearby enough to reach out and touch it.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation

Guest House

Trek Distance

10 km (6.2 miles)

Trek Duration

7 hours

Highest Altitude

4,500 meter (14,763 feet)

Our breakfast will be earlier than usual. Then, we take a packed lunch and hike to the Mardi Himal base camp. It is 10 km from High Camp to Base Camp and back and takes around 7 hours to trek. After reaching Base Camp, expansive areas of ice and blue glaciers known as the Sanctuary Wall are below us.

Annapurna I, the tallest mountain of all, is in the distance. Surrounding us in a sweeping curve from one end of the horizon to the other, there are a dozen or more magnificent snow-covered mountains, including the Ganesh Himal. Afterward, we return to High Camp.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation

Guest House

Trek Distance

9 km (5.5 miles)

Trek Duration

5 hours

Highest Altitude

1700 meter (5,577 feet)

After breakfast, today’s trail descent will be down approximately 1600m from High Camp. We walk downhill with a different route than the previous route. This trail will go through the shade of the forest and terrace field and walk along the banks of Mardi Khola to the hillside village of Siding Village.

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation

Guest House

Trek Distance

12 km (7.4 mile)

Trek Duration

3 hours

Today, we will trek for about 4 hours and drive for 2 hours to Pokhara. The path from Siding now gradually follows the contour of the river valley between the pastures and through Tamang and Gurung villages.

Drive distance: 30 km (18.6 miles)
Drive hours: 2 hours

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

3*/ 4* Hotel

After breakfast, drive to Kathmandu. In the afternoon, you have free time to explore on your own. You can exchange greetings with friends and buy some souvenirs.

In the evening, you can spend your last night in Nepal enjoying the Nepali cultural dinner show, taking some beautiful snaps, and making up your mind for the return journey. (You can also stay longer for short tours such as drives at National parks, rafting, Tibet tours, mountain biking, etc.)

Drive Distance: 200km (124.2 mile)
Drive Hours: 6 hours

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

3*/ 4* Hotel

We will arrange your transfer to the Tribhuwan International Airport three hours before departure. Enjoy your flight back home, and may you cherish the memories from your trip for a lifetime.

Meals

Breakfast

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Arrival and transfer transport from to international airport in Kathmandu
Welcome dinner by arrival
3***Hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
3 meals a day during trekking (B+L+D)
Government licensed trekking guide and 1 porter for 2 clients during trekking
Staff insurance, wages, equipment and Local transport
Annapurna conservation fee and trekking permit (TIMS)
Accommodation in the lodge during trekking
Private transport from to trekking starting point and ending point
Tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Personal insurance and helicopter rescue in case of emergency
International flight ticket
Nepal visa fee USD 30 for 15 days and 2 passport sized pictures
Personal expenses
Tips for local staff
Other than which has not mentioned in above program

Packing Tips and Preparation

Being prepared is necessary before your trek. You need two kinds of preparation: mental preparation and Physical preparation. You need to have a good fitness level. Thus, do regular preparation. Exercise cardiovascular exercises, planks, and squats to increase your stamina. Also, be mentally prepared, as the trekking involves much hardship and challenging trails.

Along with being physically and mentally fit, it is also essential to pack properly whenever you are trekking in the Himalayas. Here are some of the packing gear and essentials required for your trek to Mardi Himal:

Clothing: base layer and waterproof jackets
Boots with ankle support
Comfortable and well-fitted backpack
Lightweight sleeping bags
Trekking poles, water bottle, and headlamp
Detailed map
First-aid kit
Hygiene and toiletries
Pack high-energy snacks and nutrition
Carry all the permits and travel documents
Respect local customs and traditions

Permits and Regulations

Trekking to Mardi Himal, you require two major permits: an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit and a TIMS Card. You can obtain these permits from your respective trekking agent in Pokhara or Kathmandu.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit

As Mardi Himal Trek falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area, it is mandatory to get this permit. You can obtain this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or its office in Pokhara. You must show the permit at Pothana and trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp. It cost NPR 3000.

TIMS Card

In addition to the ACAP, trekkers embarking on the Mardi Himal Trek must get a TIMS Card. TIMS aids in tracking trekkers in the event of an emergency and offers significant details about their locations during the walk. To receive a TIMS Card, visit the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) office in Pokhara.

Accommodation Options Along the Trail

The accommodation options in Mardi Himal Trek vary depending on the route and the level of comfort you prefer. Here are some common choices

Teahouses are the most common accommodation option. They offer basic accommodation with simple rooms or dormitories. These houses also provide meals, making them convenient for trekkers. You will have a shared bathroom and a communal dining area.

Guesthouse: In larger towns, you may find guesthouses or small hotels offering more comfortable accommodations. These options provide private rooms and bathrooms. These options are mainly available in Pokhara and are less common in the trekking route.

Camping: Camping is an option for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Bring your camping gear or hire a trekking company to provide equipment and support staff. It allows flexibility in itinerary.

How to reach Mardi Himal from Pokhara?

To reach Mardi Himal from Pokhara, take a taxi or bus to Phedi. Once you reach Phedi, your hike will begin toward Mardi Himal Base Camp. Along the way, you’ll pass through scenic locations like Australian Camp and Forest Camp.

What are the best months for the Mardi Himal Trek?

How challenging is the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek?

It is a moderate-level trek. There might be certain challenging ascends, but it is doable. It is best suited for beginners. Since it is the nearest trek to Pokhara Valley, many people start their trekking journey through this trek.

Is Mardi Trek worth it?

Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek is worth it for its stunning views of the Annapurna range, serene landscapes, and relatively quieter trails compared to other popular treks in the region. It offers a unique and less crowded experience for trekkers seeking adventure amidst the natural beauty of the Himalayas.

Can you trek Mardi Himal without a guide?

What is better, Mardi Himal or Poon Hill Trek?

Deciding between Mardi Himal and Poon Hill trek depends on your preferences and trekking experience. Mardi Himal offers stunning mountain views and less crowded trails, while Poon Hill provides panoramic sunrise views and a relatively more straightforward trek with well-established trails.

How much does Mardi Himal Cost?

What is the total hiking distance for Mardi Himal Trek?

What are the highlights of the Mardi Himal trek?

The highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek include stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains, dense forests, charming villages, and the peaceful atmosphere of High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Can you climb Mardi Himal?

Yes, Mardi Himal can be climbed, and it’s considered a relatively easy climb. With some preparation, climbers can reach the summit. However, you’ll need a permit from the mountaineering association to undertake the climb.

Along the Mardi Himal trek, you will encounter several cultural insights. Each offers highlights into the local way of life and traditions. Here are some notable cultural highlights:

Experience the traditional lifestyle of Gurung communities as you pass through villages.
Discover the serenity of Buddhist monasteries scattered along the trek.
Explore vibrant Hindu temples in Pokhara and nearby areas.
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of local celebrations.
Enjoy cultural evenings at the teahouse with traditional Nepali dances.

Maintaining good health and fitness is crucial for a successful and enjoyable Mardi Himal Trek. Before starting your journey:

Make sure you are physically fit.
Engage in regular strength training and hiking to build endurance.
Listen to your body and pace yourself during your trek, taking frequent breaks.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty. Adequate nutrition is necessary, so consume a balanced diet of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to fuel your trekking efforts. Also, there is a higher risk of getting altitude sickness, so ascend slowly and consider taking medication as a precaution.

While the Mardi Himal Trek is moderate, it offers challenges like steep ascent and potential weather conditions. Hiring both a guide can enhance your experience and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. They help you navigate the trail and identify local flora and fauna. They also help you make informed decisions based on weather conditions.

Meanwhile, a porter trek removes your burden and allows you to trek weightlessly. This frees you up to fully embrace the breathtaking scenery, capture stunning photos, and focus on enjoying the trek in the moment. Imagine summiting Mardi Himal, conquering each step with renewed energy.

The Mardi Himal trek offers a pleasant trekking experience with diverse weather patterns. It has four different seasons, with different temperatures and weather.

Spring (March-May): This is the best time for Mardi trekking. The daytime temperature ranges from 15 to 20°C (59-68°F), while at night, it lowers to 0-5°F (32-41°F).

Summer (June-August): Summer brings monsoon rains, resulting in cloudy skies and high humidity. Daytime temperature can range from 20-25°C.

Autumn (September-November): Nepal’s most popular trekking season features clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures. The daytime temperature ranges between 15-20°C and can reach up to -5°C at night.

Winter (December-Feburary): The coldest temperature in Nepal also welcomes heavy snowfall. The day’s temperature is between 5-10°C, significantly dropping to -15°C at night.

Duration12 Days

Per Person From USD 1,255

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No. of Persons	Price per Person
2 - 3	USD 1,295
4 - 6	USD 1,255
7 - 10	USD 1,215
10+	USD 1,185

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