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Scenic landscape of the Mardi Himal Trek with snow-capped peaks in the background
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7 Days Mardi Himal Trekking

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration7 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeEasy
i
Maximum Altitude4450 m
Group SizeMin. 2 Pax
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeMarch-May, Aug-Nov

The Mardi Himal trek was opened in 2012, and since then, this trek route has won the hearts of hundreds of trekkers. Today, the Mardi Himal trek is considered one of the excellent alternatives to the very famous Ghorepani Poon Hill trek.

If you are looking for a less crowded yet adventurous trekking venture in the Annapurna region, then the Mardi Himal trek is a great option. The Mardi Himal trek route is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail winds east of the Annapurna Base Camp route and ascends to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at 4,500 meters.

It is the highest point of the trek. The trail follows a forested route and offers diverse landscapes, ranging from lush greenery to rugged alpine landscapes. Following this package, you will start the Mardi Himal trek from Kathmandu.

However, you also have the option to join this trek from Pokhara. Let us know if you want to customize the Mardi Himal trek itinerary as per your requirements. It is a short, 7-day trek program that is also extendable.

Highlights

  • Start and end the journey with a scenic bus ride from/to Kathmandu
  • An excellent short trek in the Annapurna region with incredible landscapes
  • Follow a less crowded, off-beat route via dense rhododendron and pine forests
  • Cross hanging suspension bridges and streams on the-way
  • Come across a wide range of vegetation and birds
  • A perfect trek from Pokhara for time-constrained travelers
  • Witness stunning mountain views of Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Dhaulagiri, etc
  • See a gorgeous sunrise from Mardi Himal Base Camp
  • Have a glimpse of the mountain lifestyle

What is it like to trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp?

Mardi Himal is 5,587 meters tall, and its base camp is located at 4,500 meters. Unlike the famous Everest Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is not that demanding in terms of fitness, time, and elevation. It is a fantastic beginner-friendly trek that offers an offbeat experience. Following the Mardi Himal trek route, you will be in true wilderness.

You will start the Mardi Himal trekking with a scenic ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kande. Kande is the trailhead, and from here, gradually ascends to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, spending night at Australian Camp and Pothana.

From Kande, you will reach the base camp in three days by walking through dense forests of rhododendrons and pine. These days, the Mardi Himal trek is known as one of the must-do treks in Nepal. Even the Nepalese love this trek so much because of its achievable factor. The scenery on this trek is breathtaking.

You will witness numerous mountains such as the Annapurna range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Mardi Himal (5,587 m/18,330 ft), etc.

Who can do the Mardi Himal trekking?

Travelers looking for a one-week adventurous holiday in Nepal can join the Mardi Himal trek 7 days. This trek is for first-time trekkers or anyone who wants to explore the beauty of the Annapurna Himalayas. You can join the Mardi Himal trek 2024 in a group with your loved ones or as a solo trekker.

The trail is pristine and not crowded, so tranquility is at its peak along the way. The Mardi Himal trek is ideal for family, friends, students, female trekkers, and solo trekkers. Our expert Mardi Himal trek guide will accompany you during the journey, ensuring your safety, comfort, and satisfaction.

What preparation is required for the Mardi Himal trek?

To successfully complete the Mardi Himal trek and enjoy the journey, trekkers have to be in decent shape. If you can walk 5 to 6 hours a day without massive stress on your body, you will enjoy the trek to the fullest. Now, to make yourself ready for 6 hours of walking each day, you need to improve stamina, strength, and endurance.

Exercise and cardiovascular activities will help you with that. For young trekkers with limited time, the Mardi Himal trek 5 days is fine. If you have a few more days to spend, we recommend doing the Mardi Himal trek 10 to 12 days. This itinerary has lower daily walking hours, with more nightstays along the way.

Mardi Himal trek packing

Follow the below list while packing for the Mardi Himal trek. Buy or rent the trekking clothes and gear as per your budget.

  • Essentials: Down jacket, fleece jacket, windbreaker, thermal wear, base layer (t-shirts and pants), underwear, trekking shirt and pants, sun cap, scarf, gloves, woolen cap, hat, raincoat, rain pants, socks, trekking boots, daypack, duffle bag (provided by the company), water bottle, water filter, sleeping bag & liner, trekking poles, casual shoes, etc
  • Toiletries: Sunglasses, sunscreen, deodorant, lip balm, sanitizer, wet wipes, toilet paper, soap, shampoo, comb, moisturizer, toothbrush & paste, etc
  • Personal Medical kit: Antiseptic cream, bandage and spray for sprained joints, band-aid, cotton, ORS or electoral powder, paracetamol, Vomistop, antifungal cream, insect repellent, necessary medications, etc
  • Miscellaneous: Spare batteries, power bank, charger, camera, headlamp/LED torch, adapter, map, snacks, journal & pen, travelers games, travel insurance documents, permits, passport, visa, photo

Are you ready for a lifetime experience?

Overall, the Mardi Himal trek offers a lifetime experience amidst the western Himalayan mountain of Nepal. You will see much Himalayan vegetation and the daily lives of the mountain people. The trek is short but fantastic—ideal for a quick getaway from the bustle of the modern world.

Join the Mardi Himal trek anytime with us as we organize this trek throughout the year. Talk to our team for any assistance. We look forward to traveling with you soon.

Why do the Mardi Himal Trek with us?

Join this short trek in Nepal and reward yourself with a lifetime venture. Get the best Mardi Himal trek price with us and do an adventurous trek in the Himalayas at an affordable cost. Our team will take care of all the logistics related to the Mardi Himal trek in Nepal. You can focus on enjoying the trek.

Trekking with us, Regulus Treks and Expedition, allows tourists to travel to Nepal safely and hassle-freely. Below, we have mentioned some of the perks that trekkers get by doing the Mardi Himal trek with us:

  • Affordable package cost
  • Flexible itinerary
  • There is no hidden cost in the package
  • Excellent refund policy
  • Top-notch service
  • Free airport pick up and drop off as per the itinerary
  • complimentary welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Free t-shirt from the company and a trek completion certificate
  • A native guide and a porter in the package cost
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
01Day

You will have a smooth arrival in Kathmandu, as our team will take care of your luggage and hotel transfer once you are out of the airport. Our representatives will be at the airport on time to welcome you. Settle in the hotel and rest. We will meet later in the day for trek refining and preparation.

*Note: Buy all the trek essentials and withdraw enough cash to use during trekking. You will need some money to buy services like charging, WiFi, hot showers, etc, during trekking. These expenses are not covered by our package cost.

Max. Altitude: 1400 mMeals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: Hotel
02Day

Altitude: 1,770 m/5,807 ft

Duration: 25 minutes flight & 1/1.5 hours drive

Start the day early with a delicious breakfast and get ready for your flight to Pokhara. The guide will pick you up from your hotel at the designated time. Enjoy a short, beautiful flight and land in Pokhara. You will then take a local jeep and drive to Kande. The drive is short and comfortable as well.

Max. Altitude: 1,770 m/5,807 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
03Day

Altitude: 2,100 m/6,890 ft

Duration: 4-5 hours

From Kande, you will begin trekking towards Australian Camp. The trail goes through lush foothills and dense forests. You will witness stunning views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal on the way. On the way, you will come across many vegetation and may see different types of birds.

Max. Altitude: 2,100 m/6,890 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
04Day

Altitude: 1,890 m/6,201 ft

Duration: 6 hours

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast and start trekking along a forested route. The trail gradually ascends and descends via dense forests. This part of the trail is quite cold because of dense forests. You may see butterflies, birds, and other animals on the way. The trail opens up as you get close to Pothana.

Max. Altitude: 1,890 m/6,201 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
05Day

Altitude: 4,450 m/14,600 ft

Duration: 8/9 hours

You have a long day ahead of us. From Pothana, you will ascend to Forest Camp. You will start trekking via dense forests and gradually ascend. From Forest Camp, walk up to Low Camp, enjoying stunning mountain views on the way.

You will take a lunch break and trek further to High Camp. Follow the steep Mardi Himal ridge and ascend to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Enjoy picturesque mountain landscapes from here and trek back to Pothana following the same trail.

Max. Altitude: 4,450 m/14,600 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
06Day

Altitude: 1,750 m/5,741 ft

Duration: 6 hours

Today is your last day of trekking. From Pothana, you will descend to Siding. The trail goes through dense forests. Enjoy the rich biodiversity and the tranquility of the trail. From Siding, you will drive to Pokhara. The remaining day is leisure in Pokhara. Enjoy the beauty of Phewa Lake with a gorgeous sunset. Explore the Lakeside Market and buy souvenirs.

Max. Altitude: 1,750 m/5,741 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
07Day

Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft

Duration: 25 minutes

Today, you will be flying back to Kathmandu. If you take a morning flight, you have a full day free in Kathmandu to rest, explore, and shop. In the late evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner and also hand you the trek completion certificate.

Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ftMeals: Breakfast and farewell dinnerAccommodation: Hotel
Route Map
Mardi Himal Trek Route, Map, Variation
Cost Details
Included
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Kathmandu by domestic flight.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara BB Plan.
  • Pokhara-Kande by public jeep and Siding or Lwang-Pokhara by public Jeep.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner ) and accommodations during the trek.
  • Trekking permit.
  • One English speaking Government certificate holder trekking guide and two trekkers and porter.
  • Guide/Porter's: food, lodge, transportation, salary, insurance, equipment, etc.
  • First Aids Kit.
  • 13% Government VAT and official expenses.
Excluded
  • International airfare and visa fees (15 Days US$30 and 30 Days US$50).
  • All drinks- soft, hot and hard: coke, beer, drinking water.
  • Your travel insurance, which should include emergency rescue,.
  • Your Trekking gear.
  • Tips for your guide and porters, etc.
Dates & Availability

Regulus Nepal ensures the security, contentment, and safety of our valued clientele. Our top priority is keeping you secure. Here are a few methods by which we protect your safety.

  • We have all the tools, supplies, and first aid kits we need.
  • Our trip leaders have received in-depth first-aid training.
  • Our trek leaders are fully authorized to halt the journey or continue if someone becomes ill.
  • We shall send out a helicopter for evacuation in an emergency (covered by insurance).
  • The entire group will trek together.

Below is our trek cancellation/refund policy:

  • If we have to cancel the trek, we will return the money after deducting the expenses already incurred (hotel reservations, tea house reservations, transportation, permits, etc.).
  • The cancellation charge depends on the time you cancel the trek. The closer you cancel the trek to the day it is supposed to start, the higher the cancellation charge will be.
  • We wait 48 hours after the trip starts for guests to contact us if they do not join. After that, we assume the trip is canceled, and we, Regulus, will not refund the sum you had deposited.
Additional Info

Mardi Himal trek permit

The Mardi Himal Trek route is inside the Annapurna region. To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and TIMS Card. Both permits only have a single entry and are not transferable.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 200 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for other countries: NPR 3000 per person
  • TIMS Card for SAARC nationals: NPR 600 per person
  • TIMS Card for other countries: NPR 1000 per person

Guide and porter during the trek

Trekking with a guide and porters offers many benefits and also assures your safety. On April 1st, 2023, trekking with a guide was banned in the Annapurna region. So, you have to do the Mardi Himal trek with a guide, or a TIMS Card will not be issued. The guides know about the Mardi Himal terrain, weather, and all the potential risks.

You will have fewer difficulties while trekking with them. They also encourage you to keep moving ahead if you feel low or think of returning without completing the trek. They will be your reliable friends in the mountains. Get to know the region and the locals closely.

Likewise, trekking with a porter allows you to move freely. The porter carries your duffel bag, which weighs up to 20 to 25 kg, which will be for 2 trekkers. That means 1 porter is for 2 trekkers on a group trek if you wish to load only your luggage then you need to pay extra for the porter hire only for you. Trekking without this load on you gives you movement freedom and fewer tires. Not only that, but you are giving them a job opportunity and helping the community grow.

What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal trek?

The best time to do the Mardi Himal trek 7 days is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). You can pick the month as per your preference. These six months are top trekking time for Mardi Himal, so you will see many trekkers along the way.

Trekking in the spring season allows you to enjoy the thriving vegetation and wildflowers. The trail is extremely beautiful, and so are the landscapes. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the lower elevations and drops as you gain altitude.

Similarly, the month sees temperatures between 10°C and 20°C (50°F and 68°F). The rustic color of the autumn with gushing rivers, waterfalls, and streams makes the scenery wonderful. The mountain views are crystal clear, and long daylight hours allow you to take your time and enjoy the journey to the fullest.

Travel insurance for the Mardi Himal trek

Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation and medical bills provides peace of mind and financial protection in an emergency. You can enjoy the Mardi Himal trek freely. Before the trek starts, you have to give us the travel insurance document. Buy travel insurance in your country, as it is not available to purchase in Nepal.

You can also include trip cancellations, loss/theft of your personal belongings, flight cancellations, etc, in the travel insurance. You have to understand that the Himalayas are unpredictable, so having travel insurance will save you from unwanted hassle if any unexpected adverse situation arises.

Mardi Himal trek difficulty and altitude sickness

The Mardi Himal trek is considered moderately difficult. It is a beginner-friendly trekking package, suitable for trekkers with decent fitness. The Mardi Himal trek route varies from lush forests to rugged mountain tracks. The trail mostly goes through dense forests and ascends via rocky, steep tracks in the upper part of the route.

Get a trekking pole to maintain your stability during walking. Unlike the Ghorepani Poon Hill trail, the Mardi Himal trek route is offbeat. It is not challenging but requires extra attention. Likewise, the trek route also lacks basic tourist infrastructure, so trekkers have to be flexible. You will walk 6 hours daily on this trek.

Another big concern of the Mardi Himal trek is the high altitude. Even though it is not as significant as other treks in Nepal, you will still reach 4,500 meters. So, there is a risk of altitude sickness on this trek. Be careful of headaches, difficulty in breathing, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, etc. These are the signs of altitude sickness.

You will have a relaxed pace during the trek, so enjoy your time. Have ample food to have the energy to walk long hours and drink lots of water. Take frequent quick breaks and listen to your body. Take it easy during the trek, and you will complete it without suffering from altitude sickness.

Accommodation and meals during the Mardi Himal trekking

The Mardi Himal trek offers basic accommodation and meals. It is not what you are used to in cities or even on the famous trekking routes. So, please keep your expectations low. With that being said, you will get a cozy, clean, and safe space to spend the nights during the trek. It is a lodge/tea house trek.

Twin shared rooms are available. Single rooms cost additional money. Washrooms are shared. Squat-style toilets are common. Trekkers are recommended to pack all the hygiene essentials, including toilet paper, soap, etc. You will get a blanket, but a sleeping bag will keep you warm, as there is no heating system in the rooms.

All the lodges and tea houses have shared dining areas, where you can have meals and socialize. The menu includes Nepali, Indian, and Western dishes. You will have options like dal bhat, momo, thukpa, pasta, noodles, soups, porridge, stew, fried rice, etc for main meals.

Likewise, for breakfast, there is usually oatmeal, pancakes, pies, porridge, chapati, toast, eggs, jam, soups, etc. Many kinds of teas and coffee are available throughout the trail. Consume different fluids throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated. For drinking water, boiled water is available.

FAQs

You can do the Mardi Himal trek in 7 to 12 days. You can choose the itinerary that best suits your time. Likewise, if you are already in Pokhara, you can complete this trek in 4 to 5 days. The total distance covered during the Mardi Himal trek is around 40 kilometers (25 miles).

The Mardi Himal trek is moderate. The terrain is offbeat but manageable by beginner trekkers. Likewise, the risk of altitude sickness is also quite low on the Mardi Himal trek. It is a fantastic trek for all age groups. If you can push yourself a little bit, you can do the Mardi Himal trek.

No, the Mardi Himal trek is not risky. Compared to other trek routes in the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal trail is not that well established, but you will be trekking with a reliable guide who will make sure you are safe. Trekking with a guide lowers the risk factor of any trek in the Himalayas.

From Pokhara, you can do the Mardi Himal trek in 5 to 7 days. You can customize the itinerary as per your fitness.

Yes, the Mardi Himal trek is worth doing whether you are looking for a less crowded trail, stunning mountain vistas, or adventure. This trek route is very remote, and the journey will rejuvenate your soul.

The best months to do the Mardi Himal trekking are Marc, April, Map, October, November, and December. If you are not that bothered by the cold, you may also trek in January and February. Monsoon months make the trail muddy and slippery with poor mountain views.

Both Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Mardi Himal treks are very much loved by trekkers. Compared to the Mardi Himal trek, ABC is tough and requires a longer time.

No, you cannot do the Mardi Himal trek without a guide because solo trekking was banned for foreign trekkers on 2023 April 1st. You can hire an independent guide or join an organized trek with a local company like ours.

The Mardi Himal trek takes you up to 4,500 meters (14,764 ft) from sea level. It is the base camp of Mardi Himal.

As per your itinerary, you can do the Mardi Himal trek from USD 599 to USD 1,200 per person. Trekking in the group will give you a better deal.

From Kathmandu, you have to travel to Pokhara. You can fly or take a bus ride. From Pokhara, take a short drive to Kande, the starting point of the trek. You then have to trek for 4 to 5 days to reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp and take another 3 days to return to Pokhara.

During the Mardi Himal trek, you will get to witness so many western Himalayan mountains of Nepal like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Fishtail, Hiunchuli, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Dhampus Peak, etc.

Poon Hill is one of the most famous short and moderate trekking routes in the Annapurna region. The Mardi Himal trek is also moderate but a bit more difficult than Poon Hill because the route is now well-established. The Poon Hill trek route offers a better tourist facility, whereas the Mardi Himal trek is on the remote and wilderness side.

Yes, it snows along the Mardi Himal trek route and on Mardi Himal. If you are trekking between late November to early March, you may face snow-covered trails.

What our Clients Say?
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Laura Thompson
18 Mar, 2024
Majestic travel in nepal

I had the best experience of my life traveling to Nepal. The country is full of natural beauty with its friendly local people around the place. The trek of Mardi Himal of Nepal was satisfying for me and my boyfriend. Our journey in Nepal was satisfying as we get to...

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Laura Thompson
Australia
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