Explore the UNESCO Sites in Kathmandu and enjoy the unique street foods.
Enjoy the scenic flight to Pokhara and its beauty.
Trek through lush forests, green lands, and unique landscapes.
Interact with local people and experience their rich culture, traditions, and hospitality.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre.
Enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayas, with opportunities for reflection and connection with nature away from city life.
Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a sparkling and fresh trekking route in the Annapurna region, for its brilliant mountain vistas, variety in landscape, and cultural aspects. Generally, it took about 7-10 days to start from the beautiful, lakeside city of Pokhara. Enjoy a spirited atmosphere before being transported out for a few days in Pokhara city.
The trail is complete with views from rhododendron forests to charming villages onto terraced fields that give one eyeshot vistas of the breathtakingly beautiful peak of Annapurna. Panoramas of towering becoming visible with gain in altitude include Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. The highlight is the arrival at Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at an elevation of 4,500 meters above sea level, or 14,763 feet. Trekkers enjoy great views of the surrounding mountains from here, so this place is very apt for photography and contemplation.
Basically, trekking in Mardi Himal is rated as a moderately difficult trek. It is meant for both novices and experienced trekkers. You also get to encounter the local communities, especially the Gurung communities en route, showing their hospitality, culture, and local food. Because this is less touristy, this route offers you the serenity to trek without the hustle and bustle found on most other trek routes.
Whether you seek adventure, natural beauty, or cultural experience, Mardi Himal is a trek worth taking a true journey into the most beautiful realm of the Himalayas and the best-kept secret for trekkers.
Mardi Himal Trek Route
The Mardi Himal Trek route in the Annapurna region of Nepal offers the most exciting trail into a natural blend of the varied landscape, which combines thrilling moments and cultural aspects of the locals.
The starting of trek normally starts from a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Dhampus, an entrance village. From here, it winds its way through thick rhododendron forest, across terraces, and through traditional Gurung villages until reaching Forest Camp, where trekkers fall into the abyss of the serenity of the mountains. It proceeds further up towards High Camp for many spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges and Machapuchare.
The climax of the trek is the hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp, lying at an elevation of approximately 4,500 meters (14,763 feet), from where one gets a breathtaking panoramic view of the towering peaks around. After a worthwhile exploration at the base camp, the route goes down through Badal Danda and Landruk, showing glimpses of local life and culture, before finally reaching Pokhara.
This less-traveled route not only offers a glimpse into the breathtaking Himalayan landscape but also offers a deeper connection with nature and the villages it passes through, making it indeed an enriching trekking experience.
Advantage of Booking A Trip with Utmost Destination Travel and Treks
Offers customized itineraries to individual preferences, physical abilities, and interests.
Facilities of pick and drop by private vehicles.
It provides guides who are trained enough to cope with different conditions during the trek.
It encourages responsible tourism and travel that is sensitive to the host environment and local economies.
The company focuses on giving you comfortable accommodation and quality meals during your trek, so you can enjoy a nice holiday with good local food.
Outlined Itinerary
Day 01:- Kathmandu Arrival
Day 02:- Kathmandu Heritage Sightseeing
Day 03:- Fly to Pokhara, Pokhara Sightseeing
Day 04:- Drive to Dhampus, Trek to Forest Camp
Day 05:- Trek to High Camp
Day 06:- Trek to Mardi Himal Trek, Back to Badal Danda
Day 07:- Trek to Landruk
Day 08:- Trek to Siwai, Drive to Pokhara
Day 09:- Drive to Kathmandu
Day 10:- Departure
Detail Itinerary
You will meet Utmost Destination Travels and Treks representative staff, who will pick you up from the International Airport and drop you at your hotel. Check into your hotel room freshen up and adjust to the new environment.
If time allows, stroll around the streets of Thamel and enjoy visiting the local market. In the evening, a small meeting will be arranged by our team, where you will be informed about the trekking and other necessary things. You will be informed about permits and other procedures. You’ll meet with your guide and interact with each other. If you have any other queries about the trek, you can ask.
Enjoy your meal at a restaurant and rest yourself.
If the provided schedule isn‘t suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.
International and domestic Airport pick-up and drop by private vehicle.
Meals during the trek;- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Free road transportation fare.
Accommodation throughout the trek.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
TIMS card
Well-experienced guides and porters.
Compressive first aid box
All government taxes and operating expenses
Certificate of appreciation after the successful trek
Farewell Dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with traditional music and dance.
Cost Excludes
Nepal Visa Fee
International Flight Fare
Private lunch and dinner
Personal Expenses
Tips for guides and porters
All expenses that are not included in the package
Dates and Price
Group Discount Available
1 - 5 Person
US$ 1240
6 - 15 Person
US$ 1120
FAQS
The Mardi Himal Trek is a popular trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, known for its stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range and diverse landscapes.
Good to Know
Why Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is the best option for those trekkers who are in search of a combination of breathtaking natural scenery, cultural experiences, and less crowding on the trail in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Some of the major reasons to take the Mardi Himal Trek are mentioned below.
Breathtaking Views: It offers panoramic views of the Annapurna massif that includes some of the iconic peaks: Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, commonly known as Fishtail, and Annapurna South. These are particularly great views from key viewpoints such as Mardi Himal Base Camp and High Camp.
Less Crowded Trail: Compared to other famous routes for trekking, like the Annapurna Circuit and Base Camp treks, Mardi Himal is far less traveled. Consequently, you get a lot more solitude on the entire hike and can enjoy better moments with the Himalayas than would be possible elsewhere among bigger crowds.
Various Landscapes: The route to the trek leads through a variety of forests, from complete rhododendrons to open terraces with alpine meadows and rocky slopes. Thus, each day brings a whole new and engrossing atmosphere, making it visually dynamic.
Cultural Immersion: While on the trek, cross traditional Gurung villages for the culture and hospitality of the locals, and ways of livelihood. Interaction with friendly people and learning about their culture enriches your trekking experience even more.
Moderately Difficult: The Mardi Himal Trek is moderately difficult. Thus, it easily can be done by both novice trekkers and advanced hikers. This trek usually takes 7-10 days to complete; hence, the time consumption for this Himalayan trekking is considerable for short-length adventure seekers.
Diversity of Flora and Fauna: The area includes the highest possible variety of flora and fauna, mainly in dense forests and alpine meadows. A large number of species can be seen by avid birdwatchers and nature lovers in their natural habitat.
Breathtaking Sunsets and Sunrises: The trekking here offers possibilities of panoramic views at sunrises and sunsets behind the mountains, mainly from places such as High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Acclimatization Opportunity: The gradual ascent during the trek is good for acclimatization, which keeps altitude sickness nil; the trip makes sure that one gradually gets used to walking day by day, for this reason too, it shall be sound to start the high-altitude trek in the Himalayas.
Original and Genuinely Enlightening: The experience of Nature and the Sublime Quietude of the mountains can be captured with the hike Mardi Himal trek. Stunning landscapes and beautiful views ensure experiences of adventure-seeking and reflection.
Ease of Access: Mardi Himal Trek starts from Pokhara, which is easily accessible by road or air from Kathmandu, and thus convenient for travelers. Well-marked trails and supportive local infrastructure make trekking quite easy for visitors.
A Typical Day on the Trek
The typical day on the Mardi Himal Trek begins at 6:00-6:30 AM, with a hearty breakfast for trekking undertaking the day ahead. Trek goes on trails by 7 AM, a mix of gradual and extremely steep ascending paths with views of the Annapurna range and lush green areas surrounding you.
One will have lunch, most likely teahouse or scenic spot, during midday after hiking and it will recharge trekkers' bodies. After continuing more trekking in the afternoon, they arrive at the endpoint place in the middle of the afternoon. After that, either the dad or the teahouse or campsite will allow the trekkers to take a trip to the viewing point to watch the sunset or go and explore the area around the teahouse or campsite. It is usually at around 6:30 in the evening when dinner takes place, and afterward, conversations with other trekkers ensue. Everyone usually goes to bed at night to rest in preparation for the next day's trekking adventure.
Best Season to Trek
Generally, Spring- March to May and autumn- September to November are considered the best seasons for trekking in Mardi Himal.
Spring: The spring months, which are accompanied by mild temperatures, usually crystal-clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons, mark this period exceptionally good for trekking due to just the view alone. Daytime temperatures are very pleasant, and trails are less crowded than during the autumn season.
Autumn: This season has stable weather with clear visibility of the majestic Himalayas. It is also the favorite time for trekkers, hence the trail is busier. The temperatures are cooler but manageable, and the skies are usually clear, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
Both seasons have excellent conditions for trekking, but your preference may be towards fewer crowds or vibrant flora in spring. It is best to avoid the monsoon season from June to August and the winter months of December to February, as heavy rains and snow make trekking difficult and unsafe.
Required Permits for Mardi Trek
Trekkers need to obtain two permits for the same to trek on the Mardi Himal route.
Trekkers' Information Management System, or TIMS Card: The permit is necessary for trekkers. It assures safety and a record of trekkers in that area may be had from it. You get the TIMS card through registered agencies that organize trekking or at the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): It is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers the Mardi Himal Trek. The ACAP is available at the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara and at the entrance of the conservation area itself in places such as Birethanti.
Packing Essentials
Packing the Mardi Himal Trek needs cautious attention to the needs and comfortable staying and trekking in the high hills. Below is the checklist of the most essential items that must be taken along with one:
Clothing
Trekking Boots
Pairs of Socks or synthetic trekking socks
Moisture-wicking thermal top and bottom.
Fleece or down jacket.
Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
Lightweight, quick-drying pants for trekking.
Warm hats and gloves for colder temperatures.
Sun Hat or Cap
Buff or Scarf
Gear
A comfortable daypack (30-50 liters) for daily essentials and a larger pack for your overnight gear.
Sleeping Bag
Trekking Poles
Water Bottle or Hydration System
Personal Items
First Aid Kit
Toiletries
Sunscreen
Insect Repellent
Trekking Snacks
Electronic camera or Smartphone
Power Bank
Headlamp or Flashlight
Miscellaneous Documents
Passport
Permits (TIMS and ACAP)
Travel Insurance, and copies of important documents.
Cash
Dry Bags or Ziplock Bags
Optional Items
Gaiters
Lightweight Towel
Travel Guide or Map
Food, Accommodation, and Water
Food, accommodation, and water are the three basic components of the Mardi Himal Trek experience.
Trekkers will be accommodated mainly in teahouses and lodges, where they can share rooms and have a communal dining area for simple and comfortable lodging.
Meals are hearty and include favorites such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, and several other vegetable dishes (mostly vegetarian). Breakfast might include porridge, eggs, and/or bread.
Also important is water, as you need to keep hydrated. Most trekkers either buy bottled water along the way or purify tap water using tablets or filters because of environmental concerns. Most teahouses provide hot water for drinking, yet it's a good idea to travel with a reusable water bottle so as not to add to plastic waste.
While they may not be the best, they can be defined as warm and welcoming facilities attached to the trekking experience.
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