In the Annapurna Region of Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek is a less-known treasure, recently gaining the recognition it deserves. You may be wondering Why Choose Mardi Himal Trek if it is not very popular. The stunning views, peaceful trails, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and authentic experiences can be some reasons for you to consider Mardi Himal over another trekking route in the region. The trek is considered to be the best alternative for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
The short distance and the manageable challenges make this trek a perfect beginner-friendly journey. The Mardi Himal trek offers you stunning views of the Himalayas, diverse landscapes, unique culture, and friendly local people. While exploring the area, you can feel at home. If you are looking for some reasons why Mardi Himal is better than other adventurous treks, you have come to the right place. Here, we will discuss the top 10 reasons for you to choose Mardi Himal:
10 Reasons to Choose Mardi Himal Trek
Newly Opened Trekking Route
Mardi Himal is a relatively new trekking route, officially opened for trekking in 2012. Unlike the popular Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks, which have been explored for decades, Mardi Himal remains untouched by mass tourism. You can explore hidden trails, unspoiled nature, and serene landscapes that many trekkers have yet to experience. Since it is less commercialized, you will find a more authentic and peaceful trekking environment, with quiet teahouses and fewer trekkers on the trail.
Short Trek In Annapurna Region
If you have limited time, this trek is perfect for you. It takes only about 5 to 7 days, depending on your pace, making it a great option for a quick yet rewarding Himalayan experience. Unlike the Annapurna Base Camp trek, which takes 7 to 12 days, or the Everest Base Camp trek, which requires 12 to 14 days, the Mardi Himal lets you enjoy breathtaking views with less commitment. The total trekking distance is approximately 40 km (25 miles), making it ideal for those who want a Himalayan experience without long-duration trekking.
Off-the-beaten-paths Experience
Unlike crowded treks, Mardi Himal offers you a peaceful journey through quiet forests, high ridges, and hidden valleys. Around 80% of the trail goes through beautiful rhododendron forests, which makes the walk refreshing, especially during spring when the flowers are in full bloom. You will cross wooden bridges, grassy pastures, and rocky ridges while encountering very few trekkers. The highest points of the trek offer panoramic 360-degree views of the Annapurna range, making it one of the most scenic off-the-beaten-path adventures in Nepal.
Remote Villages and Friendly People
Along the way, you will pass through traditional villages where you can meet welcoming locals. The Gurung and Magar communities, known for their bravery as Gurkha soldiers, dominate the region. Around 90% of the locals in these villages depend on tourism, so trekking directly supports their livelihood. In these villages, you can experience homestays, local cuisine, and traditional dance performances. The villagers are always happy to share their stories, and their warm hospitality makes your journey even more special.
Breathtaking Views of the Himalayas
One of the highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek is the stunning mountain views you get throughout the journey. From various viewpoints, you can admire the majestic peaks of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Mardi Himal (5,587 m). Unlike other treks where you see mountains from a distance, here, you get an up-close experience with these towering snow-capped peaks.
The sunrise and sunset views from High Camp (3,580 m) are absolutely magical. As the golden sunlight hits the peaks, the sky lights up in shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a picture-perfect moment. The final push to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) is challenging but rewarding, as you feel like you are walking on top of the world. The panoramic 360-degree views from the top are some of the best in the entire Annapurna region.
Quieter Trails With Limited Crowds
Unlike the 50,000+ trekkers who visit the Annapurna Base Camp annually, Mardi Himal sees far fewer visitors, with only a few thousand trekkers each year. Even in peak seasons like spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), you can trek in peace without traffic on the trails. You can enjoy the sounds of birds chirping, the rustling of leaves, and the calm wind as you walk, making it a more meditative and immersive experience compared to other popular treks.
Unique Cultural Experiences
You will get to witness the rich traditions of the Gurung and Magar communities, known for their bravery as Gurkha soldiers. You can participate in local festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Lhosar; taste traditional foods like dhido (buckwheat porridge), gundruk (fermented leafy greens), and butter tea; and even listen to folk music in teahouses. Some villagers also practice shamanism and ancient Buddhist rituals, which you might get to witness during your trek. These cultural experiences make the trek more than just a scenic journey.
Can Be Trekked Throughout The Year
You can do this trek in any season, whether spring, summer, autumn, or winter. Spring (March to May) brings colorful rhododendrons, autumn (September to November) offers clear mountain views with stable weather, winter (December to February) gives a snowy wonderland experience, and summer/monsoon (June to August) is best for lush greenery and fewer crowds. While high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp become too harsh in winter, Mardi Himal remains accessible throughout the year.
Budget Friendly
Mardi Himal is one of the most affordable treks in Nepal. A budget trek can cost you around $300 to $500, including permits, food, accommodation, and transportation. The TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) cost approximately $30 to 50. A night’s stay in a teahouse costs about $5 to 10, while meals range from $3 to 7 per dish. Since the trek is shorter and requires no expensive gear or guides (if you choose to go solo), it is a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Involvement of Moderate Level of Challenges
The trek is not too easy but also not too hard. You will walk for 5 to 7 hours daily, covering an altitude gain of 300 to 800 meters per day. The highest point, Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), is manageable for beginners with basic fitness. The trail consists of forest paths, stone steps, and ridges, but there are no technical climbs or extreme high-altitude risks. If you can walk 8–10 km a day, this trek is perfect for you. Proper acclimatization, slow pacing, and hydration will help you complete this adventure comfortably.
Why Mardi Himal Over Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
Mardi Himal is recently gaining popularity. Located in the same region of Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek can be the best alternative to the ABC trek. If you are looking for a quiet trekking adventure in the Annapurna region with fewer challenges and similar views to the popular ABC, then the Mardi Himal Trek is for you. Unlike the crowded ABC route, Mardi Himal provides a more peaceful experience, allowing you to connect with nature in solitude.
Additionally, the Mardi Himal Trek is a shorter and less physically demanding trek compared to the ABC trek, making it ideal for those with limited time or trekking experience. The trail gradually ascends, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Along the way, you will pass through charming teahouses, encounter friendly locals, and experience authentic Gurung and Magar culture. With its blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural encounters, Mardi Himal is a perfect choice for a beginner compared to the popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Is Mardi Himal a Beginner-Friendly Adventure?
Yes, Mardi Himal is a beginner-friendly adventure, making it a great choice if you are new to trekking. The trail is relatively short and less challenging compared to other treks in the Annapurna region, such as the ABC trek. You can enjoy the journey without extreme physical strain with gradual ascents and well-marked paths. The risk of altitude sickness is lower since the highest point, Mardi Himal Base Camp sits at 4,500 meters, and the trek allows enough time for proper acclimatization.
You will pass through lush forests, charming villages, and scenic areas with breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna. All the teahouses along the route provide comfortable places to rest, eat, and experience local culture. If you have a basic level of fitness and are prepared for daily walks of 5–6 hours, you can complete this trek with ease. With fewer crowds and a peaceful environment, Mardi Himal offers you a rewarding and beginner-friendly Himalayan adventure.
You can also check: Beginners Guide to Mardi Himal Trek
How To Prepare For Mardi Himal Trek?
Taking you to the base of Mardi Himal, you need to be physically and mentally prepared for all the challenges to tackle. You should indulge in cardio exercises like running, hiking, and cycling to increase your stamina. Additionally, doing squats and planks is also equally important. For mental readiness, you can practice meditation, yoga, and mindfulness. Having a positive mindset is also essential for trek. Make sure you indulge in training 1 to 2 months prior to your journey.
Not only that but to completely prepare yourself for a successful trek, proper packing and an itinerary with acclimatization are also essential. Make sure you do not overpack and include only the necessary items for your trek. Similarly, we recommend that you get the required permits for the trek prior to your trekking adventure. This helps you save your time during trekking and provides you with some ease. An itinerary with proper altitude management and acclimatization is also suggested for a successful Mardi Trek.
Weather Consideration For Mardi Himal
Although the trek can be done all year round, we generally suggest you trek during the spring and autumn seasons for the best trekking experience. Mardi Himal, during spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), provides you with moderate temperatures, stable weather, and clear mountain views. In spring, you can witness blooming rhododendron flowers, which add vibrant color to the landscapes.
Similarly, autumn enhances your cultural experience by involving two major festivals in Nepal, Dashain and Tihar. No matter which season, out of the two, you choose, we guarantee you will have a safe and memorable journey. Besides these two seasons, winter (December to February) and monsoon (June to August) may not be as favorable. Winter brings extreme cold, while monsoon brings heavy rainfall, making the adventure slightly challenging to complete.
Conclusion
There are several reasons for you to choose the Mardi Himal Trek for your next adventure in the Himalayas. Catering to both experienced and beginner trekkers, the trek is perfect, offering you a scenic journey with cultural immersion in limited challenges. If you are planning to choose the Mardi Himal, remember us. We, Himalayan Leaders, are a government-registered company offering the best trekking package services for decades. Our 5-day Mardi Himal Trek can be the right choice for you.
