Mardi Himal Trek – 10 Days
Best Season
Highest Altitude
Trip Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, providing breathtaking views and a tranquil experience. This 10-day adventure is designed for trekkers seeking a quieter route while still immersing themselves in the stunning beauty of the Annapurna range.
Starting Point and Scenic Journey
Your journey begins in Kathmandu with a scenic drive to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will travel to Kande, where your trek starts with a gradual ascent through lush forests and charming villages.
Immersive Trek Experience
As you trek, you will pass through beautiful terraced fields and rhododendron forests. Each day brings new scenic vistas, including stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and other majestic peaks. The trek is less crowded, offering a peaceful and immersive experience.
Reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp
On the fifth day, you will reach Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at an elevation of 4,500 meters. From this vantage point, you will enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machapuchare. This is a highlight of the trek, providing a truly unforgettable experience.
Return Journey and Departure
After exploring the base camp, you will trek back to Kande and then drive to Pokhara. Here, you will have some time to relax and explore before your departure.
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Annapurna region away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and cultural encounters, it is a trek that promises a memorable adventure.
Trip Highlights:
- Off-the-Beaten-Path: Enjoy a less crowded trekking route with pristine landscapes.
- Mardi Himal Base Camp: Reach the base camp at 4,500 meters for breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and the Annapurna range.
- Forest Trails: Walk through lush forests filled with rhododendrons and oak trees.
- Local Culture: Experience the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.
- Pokhara: Immerse in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.
- Accommodation: Stay in comfortable teahouses during the trek; standard hotels in Kathmandu.
- Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu.
- Luggage: Porters provided for luggage transport (up to 15 kg per person).
- Internet/WiFi, Electricity, and Water: Available at most lodges along the trekking route (additional charges may apply); complimentary WiFi in Kathmandu hotels.
Essential Items:
- Base Layers: Thermal top and bottom
- Insulation: Fleece jacket and down jacket
- Outer Layer: Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking Clothes: Some pairs of trekking pants, quick-dry shirts
- Footwear: Trekking boots, camp shoes/sandals
- Headwear: Sun hat, warm hat, neck gaiter
- Hand-wear: Lightweight gloves, insulated gloves
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm , headlamp with extra batteries , trekking poles ,50-60L backpack + daypack
Personal Items: Hygiene essentials (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes), Quick-dry towel ,Water bottle or hydration system (2L capacity) Â ,Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
Medical Kit: Personal medications, basic first aid, altitude sickness pills
Documents: Passport, trekking permits, travel insurance
Optional: Camera, power bank, Lightweight sleeping bag
Itinerary
- Drive Duration: 30-45 minutes
- Meal: Breakfast
- Highest Altitude: Kathmandu (1,400m/ 4,600ft)
Your adventure in Nepal begins with your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. As you step into the bustling capital, you will be welcomed by your trekking guide and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the vibrant heart of the city known for its lively streets, colorful markets, and trekking gear shops.
Once settled, you can explore Kathmandu’s rich culture, visiting nearby UNESCO Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), or Boudhanath Stupa. In the evening, you will attend a pre-trek briefing, where your guide will discuss the itinerary, safety guidelines, necessary trekking permits (TIMS & Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), and gear requirements. A traditional Nepali welcome dinner may be arranged to introduce you to local cuisine.
- Drive Distance/Trek Distance: 200 km (124 miles) Â / Â 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Drive Duration: 6-7 hours (Kathmandu to Pokhara) + 1.5-hour drive to Kande
- Trek Duration: 2-3 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Highest Altitude: Australian Camp (2,060m/6,759ft)
After an early breakfast, you will embark on a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway, passing through lush hills, rivers, and picturesque villages. The drive follows the Trishuli River, a popular spot for white-water rafting, and offers beautiful landscapes of terraced fields and dense forests.
Upon arriving in Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital, you will continue with a short drive to Kande, the starting point of your trek. From here, you begin a steep uphill climb through rhododendron forests and small settlements until you reach Australian Camp, a stunning hilltop viewpoint offering unparalleled views of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), and Hiunchuli. You will stay in a cozy teahouse while soaking in the mesmerizing Himalayan sunset.
- Trek Distance: 8.3 km (5.2 miles)
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Highest Altitude: Forest Camp (2,520m /8,271ft)
After breakfast, you leave Australian Camp and follow a quiet, less-traveled trail through dense rhododendron and oak forests. This section of the trek is peaceful, with few trekkers, allowing you to enjoy the pure wilderness of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
As you ascend gradually, the forest becomes thicker, creating a mystical atmosphere with occasional bird calls and distant views of the valleys below. After several hours of steady trekking, you reach Forest Camp (Kokar), a tranquil spot surrounded by tall trees and small teahouses. Since the area is remote, the facilities are basic, but the experience of being immersed in the Himalayan wilderness is truly rewarding.
- Trek Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Highest Altitude: Low Camp (3,050m /10,007ft)
Today’s trek continues through thick rhododendron forests, with moss-covered trees and wild orchids adding to the scenic beauty. The trail gradually ascends, and as you gain altitude, the trees begin to thin out, allowing more glimpses of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
Upon reaching Low Camp, you will be greeted with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The sky opens up, and you can enjoy clear, unobstructed sights of the snow-capped peaks, making this a perfect spot to rest and acclimatize. Low Camp has a few teahouses where you will stay for the night, enjoying a warm meal in the cozy dining hall.
- Trek Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Highest Altitude: High Camp (3,580m /11,745ft)
As you leave Low Camp behind, the trail climbs steeply along a ridgeline, offering 360-degree views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The vegetation thins out, and the trek becomes more exposed, with open meadows replacing dense forests.
The final push to High Camp is challenging but rewarding, as you arrive at one of the most spectacular viewpoints of the trek. Here, you will have an unobstructed panoramic view of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Mardi Himal. As the sun sets, the mountains turn golden, creating a surreal atmosphere.
- Trek Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) round trip
- Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Highest Altitude: Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m /14,764ft) & High Camp (3,580m /11,745ft)
Today is the most anticipated day of the trek as you ascend to Mardi Himal Base Camp, the highest point of your journey. The trail is steep, rugged, and exposed, with breathtaking views at every step. As you climb higher, the air becomes thinner, and the terrain transforms into rocky outcrops and glacial moraine.
Upon reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp, you will be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre. After spending time at the base camp, you will descend back to High Camp for the night.
- Trek Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Altitude: Siding Village (1,700m /5,577ft)
Leaving the alpine terrain behind, you will descend through dense forests and small Gurung villages towards Siding, a traditional settlement off the main trekking route. This day offers an authentic cultural experience, as Siding is still untouched by mass tourism.
You will stay in a local teahouse with a homestay-like experience, interacting with the Gurung community and enjoying traditional Nepali hospitality.
- Trek Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Trek Duration: 3-4 hours
- Drive Duration: 2 hours
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Altitude: Pokhara (822m/ 2,697ft)
After a relaxed morning, you will trek downhill to Lumre, where a private vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara.
Once in Pokhara, you can explore Phewa Lake, Devi’s Falls, Mahendra Cave, or simply relax at a lakeside café, enjoying the stunning mountain reflections on the water.
- Drive Distance: 200 km (124 miles)
- Drive Duration: 7-8 hours
- Meal: Breakfast & Dinner
- Altitude: Kathmandu(1,400m/ 4,600ft)
After breakfast in Pokhara, you will begin your scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The drive takes approximately seven to eight hours, passing through beautiful rural landscapes, rivers, and terraced hillsides. As you drive, you will see local villages and fields where farmers continue their daily work. You will pass through the towns of Damauli and Mugling, and as you approach Kathmandu, the scenery transitions from the rural countryside to the urban sprawl of the capital.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have some time to relax, enjoy a leisurely dinner, and reflect on your incredible journey. The evening is perfect for revisiting Thamel’s lively streets for some last-minute souvenir shopping or enjoying a traditional Nepali meal at one of the many restaurants. This night also gives you time to rest after the long drive and prepare for your departure. A farewell dinner may also be hosted in the evening with your trekking group and guide, allowing you to share your experiences and celebrate the completion of your trek.
- Drive Duration: 30-45 Â minutes
- Meal: Breakfast
- Altitude: Kathmandu(1,400m/ 4,600ft)
Your adventure comes to an end today. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping before being transferred to the airport.
As you leave Nepal, you will carry unforgettable memories of the Mardi Himal trek and the spectacular Himalayas! Safe travels!
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Mr. Shishir Dhakal
Price Inclusion
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
- Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back in tourist bus.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (3-star hotel) and teahouses during the trek.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
- First aid medical kit.
- Comprehensive travel insurance.
- Duffel bag and sleeping bag for trekking (Should be returned after trek completion).
- One porter for two trekkers.
- Farewell dinner at the end of the trek.
Price Exclusion
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Nepal entry visa fees.
- Personal trekking equipment and gear.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Extra expenses such as bar bills, laundry, and telephone charges.
- Travel insurance for personal loss, injury, or illness.
Additional Information
Trip Map
Meals and Accommodation on Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek, an 8-day adventure through the Annapurna region, offers trekkers an authentic experience of local culture and cuisine. This trek includes tea house accommodations along the trail and more modern comforts in city stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
In Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodations are arranged in well-maintained tourist-standard hotels. These hotels feature comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and complimentary breakfasts, creating a relaxing atmosphere before and after the trek. Additional amenities like Wi-Fi, cozy beds, and optional fine dining options make these stays rejuvenating.
Tea houses are the primary accommodation on the Mardi Himal trek route. These tea houses typically offer twin-sharing rooms with basic amenities, including beds, blankets, and pillows. Although simple, these accommodations are clean, comfortable, and provide much-needed rest after a day of trekking. Higher elevations may offer more basic facilities, with shared bathrooms and hot showers available for an additional fee. Lower-altitude tea houses may be slightly more developed, offering occasional charging facilities for electronic devices.
Meals on the trek are fresh and energizing, catering to trekkers’ needs in the mountains. Breakfast often includes options like porridge, Tibetan bread, eggs (boiled, fried, or scrambled), pancakes, and hot drinks (tea, coffee, or hot chocolate). For lunch and dinner, trekkers can enjoy hearty local dishes like Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables, and pickles), noodles, fried rice, pasta, momos (dumplings), and soups. Snacks such as biscuits, chocolate bars, and fresh fruits are also available. Ingredients are usually sourced locally, allowing trekkers to experience the flavors of the region.
The Mardi Himal Trek not only offers scenic landscapes but also provides a comfortable trekking experience with quality meals and restful accommodations. From scenic tea houses in the mountains to comfortable city hotels, this trek is designed to ensure both adventure and relaxation.
Best Season for Mardi Himal Trek
The best times to trek Mardi Himal Base Camp are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer ideal weather, clear views, and vibrant nature, making the trekking experience rewarding.
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Warm days with clear skies, cool nights. Spring is ideal for experiencing blooming flora.
- Temperature:
- Lower regions (1,000m to 2,500m): 15°C to 25°C during the day, 5°C to 10°C at night.
- Higher regions (up to 4,500m, Mardi Himal Base Camp): 5°C to 15°C during the day, -5°C to 5°C at night.
- Highlights: Rhododendron forests are in full bloom, painting the trails with red and pink hues. Panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Mardi Himal are best enjoyed under clear skies.
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Stable weather, mild temperatures, clear skies, and dry air make autumn the most popular season for trekking.
- Temperature:
- Lower regions (1,000m to 2,500m): 15°C to 25°C during the day, 5°C to 10°C at night.
- Higher regions (up to 4,500m, Mardi Himal Base Camp): 5°C to 15°C during the day, -5°C to 5°C at night.
- Highlights: Crystal-clear post-monsoon air enhances mountain views, and the lush greenery adds vibrancy. Cultural festivals like Dashain and Tihar add a festive touch in nearby villages.
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold, with occasional snowfall at higher elevations and generally clear skies.
- Temperature:
- Lower regions (1,000m to 2,500m): 10°C to 15°C during the day, 0°C to 5°C at night.
- Higher regions (up to 4,500m, Mardi Himal Base Camp): -5°C to 5°C during the day, -10°C to -5°C at night.
- Challenges: Low temperatures and snow at higher altitudes may require proper winter trekking gear and experience. Trails are quieter, offering a serene trekking experience.
Monsoon/Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Heavy rain, humidity, and frequent cloudy days.
- Temperature:
- Lower regions (1,000m to 2,500m): 20°C to 30°C during the day, 10°C to 20°C at night.
- Higher regions (up to 4,500m, Mardi Himal Base Camp): 15°C to 20°C during the day, 5°C to 10°C at night.
- Challenges: Slippery trails, leeches, and reduced visibility due to clouds. However, monsoon greenery and fewer crowds can appeal to those seeking solitude.
Equipment Checklist
Trekking in Nepal is an incredible adventure, taking you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged mountain trails. To fully enjoy the experience, it’s crucial to pack the right equipment. Here’s an essential checklist to help you prepare for your trek, ensuring you’re ready for the challenges and beauty of the Himalayas.
1. Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal tops and bottoms) are essential for regulating your body temperature. Opt for lightweight, breathable materials.
- Mid Layers: Fleece jackets or lightweight down jackets provide warmth in colder temperatures. These layers should be easy to add or remove as needed.
- Outer Layers: A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential to protect against rain, wind, and snow. Make sure it’s breathable to stay comfortable during strenuous activities.
- Trekking Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants are ideal. Consider packing thermal pants for colder regions or seasons.
- Gloves, Hats, and Buffs: Warm gloves, a woolen hat, and a buff or neck gaiter help protect against the cold at high altitudes.
- Trekking Socks: High-quality, moisture-wicking socks (at least three pairs) are crucial to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.
2. Footwear
- Trekking Boots: Sturdy, well-fitted, and waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support are essential. Break them in before your trek to avoid blisters.
- Sandals or Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or camp shoes for relaxing at tea houses or lodges after a long day of trekking.
3. Backpack and Storage
- Daypack (20-30 liters): A small, comfortable daypack with rain cover to carry essentials like water, snacks, camera, and extra layers.
- Duffel Bag (60-80 liters): For your main gear, use a durable, waterproof duffel bag that will be carried by porters.
- Dry Bags or Ziplock Bags: For protecting electronics, documents, and clothes from moisture.
4. Trekking Gear
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable trekking poles reduce the strain on your knees, especially during steep descents.
- Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for early morning starts, late finishes, or use in lodges where electricity may be limited.
- Water Bottles and Purification: Carry reusable water bottles and purification tablets or a water filter to ensure safe drinking water.
- Sleeping Bag: A four-season sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -10°C to -15°C is recommended for high-altitude treks.
5. Health and First Aid
- Personal First Aid Kit: Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF sunscreen and lip balm are essential to protect against strong UV rays at high altitudes.
- Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: Useful for maintaining hygiene when water is limited.
- Altitude Sickness Medication: Consult your doctor about medications like Diamox for preventing altitude sickness.
6. Personal Items and Extras
- Snacks and Energy Bars: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks for a quick boost on the trail.
- Sunglasses with UV Protection: Essential for protecting your eyes from the intense sunlight and snow glare at high altitudes.
- Camera or Smartphone: To capture the breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget extra batteries or a portable charger.
- Personal Toiletries: Include biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a small towel.
- Cash: Carry enough local currency for expenses along the trail, as ATMs are not available in remote areas.
7. Documents
- Passport and Visa: Carry your passport, visa, and photocopies in a waterproof pouch.
- Permits: Obtain trekking permits such as the TIMS card and national park or conservation area permits, depending on your route.
- Travel Insurance Details: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuations, and medical expenses.
Final Tips
- Pack Light: Try to keep your backpack under 10-15 kg. The lighter your pack, the more enjoyable your trek will be.
- Layer Up: Layering is key for comfort in Nepal’s changing weather conditions. Bring versatile clothing that can be easily added or removed.
- Double-Check Your Gear: Before you set off, double-check that you have all the essentials. Missing a crucial item could make your trek less comfortable or even dangerous.
