Mardi Himal Trek is one of the easiest and most accessible trekking routes from Pokhara, Nepal. This scenic journey takes you to the base of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. The trek is perfect for those seeking a relatively short yet rewarding Himalayan adventure, as it combines stunning landscapes, dense rhododendron forests, and charming villages with the grandeur of the Annapurna region.
Overview of Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem located in Nepal’s Annapurna region. Offering magnificent views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, this trek is perfect for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
This trek typically takes 6-7 days, making it an excellent option for those with limited time but an unquenchable thirst for adventure. The trail passes through several unique landmarks, including the Low Camp, High Camp, and the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Each stop introduces trekkers to breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable Himalayan vistas.
Starting from Pokhara, the trek takes you through lush rhododendron forests, high ridges, and picturesque villages, culminating at the Mardi Himal Base Camp at an altitude of 4,500m (14,764ft). The total trekking distance is approximately 64 kilometers, making it suitable for trekkers of varying experience levels.
Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
- Incredibly beautiful walk through serene landscapes
- Breathtaking Himalayan Views
- Amazing Landscapes, Colorful Mountain villages
- Unbelievable elevation gain in a short time
- Everlasting memories of a walk, nature, and Himalayan views to cherish
Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty
Mardi Himal Trek difficulty level is considered moderate, making it accessible to most trekkers, including beginners. The trekking route is relatively short and features manageable trails, but some sections involve narrow paths and steep slopes requiring caution. The highest altitude reached during this trek is 4,500 meters, which minimizes the risk of altitude sickness compared to other high-altitude treks in Nepal. However, preparation is key, as risks cannot be entirely avoided. Trekkers with normal physical fitness can easily complete the Mardi Himal Trek, but starting regular exercises or hikes a month before the trek is recommended. This will boost your stamina and ensure a more enjoyable trekking experience.
Mardi Himal Best Time to do Trek
The best time for Mardi Himal Trek is during Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). These seasons offer favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and stunning views of the Annapurna range and Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). In Autumn, the lush green landscapes and crisp mountain air create an ideal trekking environment. Meanwhile, in Spring, the trails are adorned with blooming rhododendrons, adding vibrant colors to the journey. Trekking during the monsoon (June to August) or winter (December to February) is less recommended due to unpredictable weather, heavy rains, snow, and reduced visibility, which can affect your overall experience.
Accommodations
During the Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers are accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trek. Along the trekking route, lodges, guesthouses, or homestays with twin-sharing rooms are the primary accommodations. Staying in local guesthouses allows trekkers to experience the warm hospitality and traditional lifestyle of the local communities.
As the Mardi Himal Trek grows in popularity, securing rooms during the peak trekking seasons can become challenging. It’s advisable to book in advance or prepare for the possibility of sharing rooms with more than two people during busy periods. Basic amenities are provided, but the facilities might be limited in comparison to those in cities, adding to the charm of the rustic trekking experience.
Itinerary Details
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
- Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m) – 6-7 hours
- Day 3: Drive to Kande, trek to Australian Camp, then to Forest Camp (2,500m) – 6-7 hours
- Day 4: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,970m) – 4-5 hours
- Day 5: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3,580m) – 4 hours
- Day 6: Excursion to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), return to High Camp – 6-7 hours
- Day 7: Descend from High Camp to Siding Village (1,750m) – 6-7 hours
- Day 8: Drive from Siding Village to Pokhara, then to Kathmandu
Meals During Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek package typically includes meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with tea or coffee. The meals primarily feature authentic Nepali cuisine, such as dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), providing a wholesome and nutritious option to keep you energized. Many ingredients are locally sourced from farmers in the region.
While Nepali dishes dominate the menu, trekkers can also enjoy limited options for Indian and continental cuisines at some guesthouses. However, as the trek moves to higher altitudes, food variety decreases. Trekkers are advised to inform their guides about dietary preferences or allergies to ensure a smooth dining experience along the route.
Mardi Himal Trek Include / Exclude
Cost Includes
- Airport pick & drop off service by Private Vehicle
- hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per Itineary
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
- Kathmandu Valley sightseeing with English-speaking license holder’s tour guide
- Comprehensive pre-departure information/meeting in your Hotel or in the central office of Actual Adventure Pvt. Ltd.
- 3 meals a day (Breakfasts, Lunch and Dinners with tea or coffee) during the trek
- Accommodation in lodges, and guesthouses on twin sharing basis during the trek (We will try to provide you Attach bathroom room as well as available)
- Trekking guides and porters (Porter can carry up to 20kg )
- Guide airfare (if applicable)
- Road transportation as per itinerary if applicable (Private Car, Bus , Van extra)
- Arrangements for food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicine for all trekking staff.
- Travel insurance for Nepali staff. While trekking period
- Actual Adventure's Group medical supplies (First Aid medical kit will be available)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for National Park & Conservation
- Trekking information management system ( TIMS ), New Trekking permit to keep a record of tourists, (This is for your safety)
- All Paperwork and Administration and registration charges.
- All Government, Vat, Service charges, and taxes are included.
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Airfare domestic ( Kathmandu - Pokhara flights ) and international flights
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Airport tax is required for the Domestic / International flights
- All alcoholic drinks, mineral water, laundry, phone calls, internet
- Personal trekking equipment, medical and travel insurance
- Entrance fees for sightseeing/Monument
- Any extra transportation except itinerary (we can arrange it if requested)
- Any kind of personal expenses / Helicopter rescue due to causes out of our control.
- Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the inclusive price
- Some extra assistance (if you can not walk properly our guide will arrange for your horse, to come back, if applicable you have to pay them directly
- Tips to staff. After working everyone expects some Tips, we never tell you a fixed amount, because it is up to you and up to their service, but generally tourist use to give10% of the total cost.
