Mardi Himal Trek

  • Duration 10
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts at Kathmandu
  • Ends at Kathmandu
  • Meals All Inclusive
  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max. Altitude 4200 M/
  • Activity Trekking, Exploring
  • Group Type Private
  • Group Size 2-16
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp, where you get a glorious view of Annapurna range, Mt. Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal.
  • Explore the culture, tradition, and cuisine of rural peoples, especially Gurung.
  • View beautiful sunrise from the village of Siding.
  • Enjoy the surreal biodiversity along the isolated trails of the Mardi Himal Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

If you’re looking for a quick getaway from your daily mundane life, Mardi Himal Trek is the solution. It was opened just recently opened for trekkers in 2012. It is a relatively easy trek, not that far from the city of Pokhara. You make your way across the beautiful ridges and alpine hills as you see the dense vegetation offered by the Annapurna region. You can get a remarkable view of Mt. Fishtail (Machhapuchhre) (6997m), Mt. Annapurna (8091m), and Mardi Himal (5553m) along with a whiff of fresh air as you tread along the trails.

We begin our trip in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. You can visit the famous world heritage sites in Kathmandu, such as Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, among others. Kathmandu is the hub of Nepal, where you can find a mix of culture and traditions. During this time, we will get your permits ready, namely, TIMS Card and ACAP Permit. You will leave for Pokhara early in the morning via a tourist bus. There are a lot of attractions in Pokhara such as boating in the Lakeside, cycling, paragliding, or visiting famous locations like World Peace Stupa, Begnas Lake, and so on. The next day, after a drive to Kande, we begin our first trek to Forest Camp. As the name suggests, Forest Camp is a small settlement located amid the rhododendron forests. The next morning, you will begin your journey to Low Camp and follow with another one to the High Camp. From High Camp, you get a more unobstructed view of Mardi Himal (5553m). The next day we hike up to the Upper viewpoint (4,500m), the highest point of the trek. You can relish an ethereal view of the Mardi Himal (5553m) and Fishtail Mountain (6993m) along with the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal range from the Upper viewpoint. The best season for trekking in Mardi Himal is during autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May).

At Brown Bear Trails, we aim to provide you with the best resources and trekking guides to make this trek safe and one of the best experiences you ever have. You can mail us or contact us if you have any queries regarding this trek.

Day to Day Itinerary
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You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you will meet our staff who will greet you warmly and drop you to the hotel. You can get refreshed and take some rest in your hotel. In the evening, you can stroll around in the streets around the hotel. At dinner, our trekking guides will brief you on the trip, and you can ask any queries.

  • Tea 3*** Hotel
  • Welcome Dinner
  • 2.3
  • 12

After an early breakfast, you will leave Pokhara at 7 in the morning via a tourist bus. On the way, you will go across the famous Prithvi highway in the company of Trishuli River and lush hills. You can catch a glimpse of the beautiful landscapes, greenery, and small streams as you reach Pokhara in the late afternoon.

  • Tea 3*** Hotel
  • All Inclusive
  • 6-7 hours
  • 200 km

After breakfast, you will take a drive to Kande, which takes about 40 minutes. After reaching Kande, you begin your first trek to Forest Camp. On our way, we make our way through a famous mountain pass Deurali (3,200m), where we stop for lunch. From the camp, you can see the Modi Khola valley between Mardi Himal and Annapurna. Overnight stay in Forest Camp.

  • Tea Tea House
  • All Inclusive
  • 3-4 hours
  • 26 km (drive) + 5 km (trek)

On this day, we will make our way to Low Camp. It is a relatively more comfortable trek as we gradually make our way upward, passing through forests of rhododendrons on the way. As we reach Low Camp, we get a distinct view of the Mardi Himal and Mt. Machhapuchhre. The lodges available in Low Camp are adequate and quite comfortable. Bonfires during the night.

  • 5-6 hours
  • 8 km

Leaving the Low Camp, you make your way to High Camp. The trek gets a bit steeper as you make your way past the alpine ridges, and the vegetation starts getting thinner. We stop at Middle Camp for lunch, where we get a beautiful view of Mt. Machhapuchhre (6997m), Annapurna South (7219m), and Hiunchuli (6441m). Once you reach the High Camp, you can see the valley down below and Mardi Himal quite clearly.

  • Tea Tea House
  • All Inclusive
  • 5-6 hours
  • 7 km

As the trek gains more altitude, we make our way to Upper View Point, which is also known as Mardi Himal Base Camp. You will be leaving early in the morning as a lot of distance will need to be covered. Specks of snow can be noticed along the way due to the increase in altitude and decrease in temperature. Once you reach the viewpoint, you can revel in the ravishing views of Mardi Himal (5553m), and Mt. Annapurna (8091m), along with many others in the Annapurna range.

  • Tea Tea House
  • All Inclusive
  • 6 hours
  • 10 km

As the trip begins to make a return, you will begin your descent downwards to Siding Village. As you make your way to Siding, you will notice the reappearance of vegetation and forests. The trail might get a bit steep and slippery. The main attraction in Siding village is the surreal view of the Himalayas and ethnic Gurung culture. You can explore the cuisine and culture of the mostly Gurung people living in the village of Siding.

  • Tea 3*** Hotel
  • All Inclusive
  • 5 hrs (trek) + 2 hrs (drive)
  • 8 km (trek) + 26 km (drive)

Today we will begin our trek back to Pokhara. We will make our way through dense rhododendron forests. We pass through Lumre, where we stop for lunch. The trek to Pokhara is pretty simple as the roads get wider and pitched. When we reach Pokhara, you can get refreshed and stroll around Lakeside.

  • 6-7 hours
  • 200 km

After breakfast, you will make your way to Kathmandu, driving across the Prithvi Highway. You will reach Kathmandu by late afternoon and head to the hotel. As this day is your final one in Nepal, you can explore the city or hit the streets to shop souvenirs.

  • Tea 3*** Hotel
  • Breakfast

It will be our responsibility to make sure that you reach the airport on time so that you don’t miss your flight. Have a safe flight, and we hope to see you again. Namaste!

Altitude Chart

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Cost Includes
  • All main arrival and departure transfer in private vehicles airport to the hotel and vice-versa.
  • Tourist standard hotels in Kathmandu and at Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis with a bed and breakfast only basis. (For single room supplement at extracost). Interested people can request 3-5 star hotel accommodation asper the trip cost provided.
  • Sightseeing tour around places of interest with all entrance fees, with a tour guide and private vehicles as the size of a group.
  • Private Transportation before and after the trek as per the size of a group Options for domestic flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu at extra cost if not included in the trip cost and itinerary.
  • All applicable trekking permits, with Annapurna Conservation entrance fees.
  • Full board trekking includes accommodation in local lodges on twin sharing basis. Includes 3 times meals B-L-D with afternoon snacks and refreshments.
  • Wages, transportation, Insurance, and meals for trekking guide, staff, and porters.
  • Welcome or Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Cost Excludes
  • Nepal entry visa, personal Travel / Medical Insurance.
  • Expenses of personal nature and meals in Kathmandu / Pokhara, as wellas soft or hard drinks, laundry, charging electronic items, and hot showers on treks.
  • Gratitude or tips for the guide, staff, and porters at the end of the trek.
  • Emergency Evacuation by private transportation or using helicopter service if needed.
  • Early return from the trek due to personal problem or sickness, the client has to bear all extra expenses including of accompany staff. As well as extra nights in Kathmandu and medical bills.
  • Personal trekking gear, sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking duffel bags if not included in the trip cost. Including a personal medical kit.
Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
FAQs
  • The Mardi Himal Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, including Mardi Himal, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and the surrounding peaks. Highlights include lush forests, traditional Gurung villages, rhododendron blooms, and the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains. The trek is known for its relative remoteness, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience compared to other Annapurna treks.

  • The best time to trek Mardi Himal is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear, with mild temperatures and stable conditions. In spring, trekkers can enjoy colorful rhododendron blooms, while autumn offers perfect visibility of the Himalayan peaks. The temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C during the day, and it can drop to -5°C to -10°C at higher altitudes at night.

  • For the Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers require two main permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. The ACAP is issued for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area, while the TIMS card helps track trekkers for safety. Both permits can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board or local trekking agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

  • Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek can be completed by beginners, though a basic level of fitness is recommended. The trek is moderately challenging, with gradual ascents and varying terrain, including some steep sections. The highest point is at 4,500 meters, which requires acclimatization, but the overall difficulty level is manageable for people with no prior trekking experience, provided they are in good physical condition and have a positive attitude.

  • The Mardi Himal Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp. While this altitude is not as high as some other Himalayan treks, altitude sickness can still be a concern for some trekkers. It’s essential to acclimatize by taking it slow, staying hydrated, and allowing time for rest. Symptoms like headache, dizziness, or nausea should be taken seriously, and descending immediately if these symptoms occur is advisable.

  • To prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek, focus on building stamina and endurance through cardio exercises like walking, jogging, or hiking. For packing, bring lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for both warm days and cold nights. Essential items include a sleeping bag, trekking poles, waterproof jacket, warm layers, sun protection, water bottles, a first aid kit, snacks, and a camera. Don’t forget trekking boots, a hat, gloves, and toiletries. Packing efficiently ensures comfort and safety during the trek.

  • Along the Mardi Himal Trek, accommodations are generally in tea houses or lodges, ranging from basic to comfortable. Rooms are simple with shared bathrooms, and the higher you trek, the more basic the facilities. The food mainly consists of traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and noodle soups. Tea houses also serve Western meals, such as pasta, pancakes, and fried rice. While the quality of food varies, it’s generally nutritious and sufficient for trekkers.

  • Wi-Fi is available in most tea houses along the Mardi Himal Trek, though the service can be slow and may come with a small fee. To stay safe, make sure to hire a licensed guide or porter, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Carry a basic first aid kit, stay hydrated, and avoid pushing yourself too hard. Always let someone know your itinerary, especially in more remote sections. Cell phone signal is available at lower altitudes, but may be weak at higher points.

  • Along the Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll encounter the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung and Magar communities. You’ll have opportunities to visit traditional villages, interact with locals, and experience their hospitality. Expect to see beautiful stone houses, terraced fields, and temples. In the higher villages, you may witness traditional rituals, dances, and festivals, especially if you visit during the Nepali New Year or other cultural celebrations. The trek provides a unique cultural immersion along with spectacular natural beauty.

  • The Mardi Himal Trek can be suitable for families with children and people over 60, as long as they are in good health and physically prepared. It is a moderate trek with manageable distances and less strenuous sections compared to more difficult treks. However, older trekkers should be aware of potential altitude issues and take the trek at a slower pace. Families can enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural richness, but proper preparation, including fitness and acclimatization, is essential for a safe experience.

  • The main risks of the Mardi Himal Trek include altitude sickness, slips, and falls, especially on steep or muddy sections of the trail. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so trekkers should be prepared for cold, wind, and rain. In higher altitudes, there’s also the risk of hypothermia if not properly equipped. Additionally, trekkers should be cautious of dehydration and exhaustion. Hiring a local guide or porter and following safety tips can help mitigate these risks.

  • Yes, it is advisable to bring a sleeping bag for the Mardi Himal Trek. While tea houses provide bedding, the quality of blankets may not be sufficient, especially at higher altitudes where it gets colder at night. A sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -10°C will ensure that you stay warm and comfortable, particularly in the higher, colder regions of the trek. Additionally, a sleeping bag adds an extra layer of comfort and hygiene.

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US $650