Mardi Himal TrekMardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek - 10 Days 2024\2025

Key Information
  • Duration11 Days
  • Difficulty LevelEasy
  • Max Altitude4500m/14764ft
  • Arrival CityKathmandu
  • Best TimeMarch-May/Sep.-Dec.
  • Group Size2-16

About The Mardi Himal Trek 

Mardi Himal Trek Nepal is one of the bitten eco-tourism originally based uniquely in the Annapurna Himalaya region. Short Mardi Trek is a sweet purpose of staying separate from the crowd. The route is decorated with charming landscape and alluring mountain views, terraced farmlands, forests, and high mountain camps. Mardi Himal Trek delivers imaging of Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft.), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft.), Machhapuchhre (6,995 m/22,851ft.), and extends rectangular degree, the foremost imperative charm of this trek. Mardi Trek route offers pristine natural beauty, making it one of the best treks in Nepal.

 Mardi Himal Trek overview

Mardi Himal is situated east of the Modi Khola, just opposite the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Mardi Himal Trek is a newly discovered trail with so much to explore and experience. Very few trekkers have made their way to Mardi Himal Base Camp – so it is maintained in terms of traditions and nature. The Mardi Himal Trek is the ideal choice for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of Annapurna away from the crowds.

This trek lets you see the towering Mardi Himal (5,553 m) that rises in front of the fabled and sacred Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail). This is one of the astounding elements of this serene off-the-beaten trekking path. Traversing through temperate to alpine forests towards undisturbed hilly terrain is undoubtedly the soul of wilderness adventure. Grace your travelling soul with the virgin beauty of Mother Nature during this surprising alternate trekking trail of the Annapurna Region.

Besides, you will spot wildlife passing through the Annapurna Conservation Area. You will get a chance to witness Danphe (Pheasant), Himalayan Thar, Musk deer, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Snow leopard, and other Himalayan wildlife. The Mardi Himal trail goes along the snaky route through dense rhododendron forest until you climb out of low camp. On the way, you get to enjoy a complete solitary path filled with magical forest, authentic villages, terraced farms,gushing rivers, high waterfalls, and the stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli Peaks.

Gradually, the tree line gives way to alpine scrub, and the views become close and clear. From the high camp (3,540 m), you can climb to the upper viewpoint for more up-close views. The upper view offers a stunning up-close view entire Annapurna range. On returning, we will make a circular trek so that you don't have to return over the same trail.

There are normal teahouses and homestays ahead of the trail, and food options are limited. You will be offered a basic twin-sharing room with a shared toilet. Though teahouses provide a warm blanket, carry sleeping bags for more comfort and warmth.

Mardi Himal Trek Route

Around 6-7 hours of the drive from Kathmandu takes us to Pokhara and then Phedi, the naturally blessed center of Nepal. Upon reaching Phedi, we began our trek to Deurali, taking about a 30-minute hike to get there. Another day we will head towards Forest Camp. During the walk, you will immerse yourself in the fragrant forest, which makes this trek remarkable.

After that, we will go further to Low Camp, and you will get a chance to see colourful rhododendron forests, which will steal your heart. Our next stop is the High Camp which takes about 4 to 5 hours from Low Camp. Today we will reach the ultimate destination at Mardi Base Camp, where we can see the magnificent view of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and many other snow-capped peaks.

After the astonishing view of the mountains, we will be back at High Camp the same day. We will trek back to Siding Village, which will take about 5 to 6 hours. You will have an excellent opportunity to know the socio-cultural values and lifestyle of the Gurung community. On another day we will trek to Lumre for approximately 2 hours, and drive back to Pokhara and to Kathmandu.

Best Time to  Mardi Himal Trek

The weather is an essential factor to look at when choosing to trek to Mardi Himal because no one is behind nature. People trek throughout the year, but certainly, there are ups and downs in all seasons.

Although trekking is welcoming throughout the year, each season has several attractions. The temperature in the mountains depends on the altitude range – the higher the altitude, the below the temperature. Below is the total information about the climatic situation for every quarter of months.

Mardi Himal Trek in Spring Season

Destination towards Mardi Himal from March to May is the best season in which mountain lovers and travel bugs come to Mardi Himal Trek. In this season, the climate is warm, and the rainfall is relatively low. The daily temperature in the high part of Mardi Himal is within 5 to 0 degrees Celsius. Lower regions along the trek are even warmer, making it enjoyable for any nature enthusiast.

By April, the route through the Himalayas will be rewarded with various full blossom rhododendron of red, pink, and white, even at an elevation of over 3,000 m. The temperature starts increasing from mid-March to mid-May. The weather is excellent at this time. The sky is crystal clear, and you can enjoy the astonishing views of the mountains.

Mardi Himal Trek in Summer Season

The summer season falls from June to August. Summer is the hottest month and therefore has fair trekking conditions compare to other months. But the monsoon that coincides with the summer means that you have to be more careful with your arrangement as the trekking routes might be wet and slippery.

It usually rains during this season. The temperature during the days usually ranges from 5 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius and gets relatively colder at night. Though the rain may cause some problems. Various plants thrive during this season, and the valleys will be green and different.

Mardi Himal Trek in Autumn Season

The autumn season, September to November, is a season that invites travellers around the world to trek in the Mardi Himal. Mild temperatures, soft wind, and low precipitation make autumn an outstanding trekking season.

This is a favourite among tourists with the most pleasant weather and ideal climate situation. The sun blazes brilliantly, the skies are clear, you get a superb view of the mountains, and the temperature is perfect for the daytime trek. The monsoon will be over by early September, and the weather varies from cool to warm days. The greens that grew during the monsoon fade to golden/amber, proving a spectacular contrast against the crystal blue skies, grains are ripening in the enclave.

Nepalese festivals like Dashain and Tihar also fall during those seasons. It is also a hectic season, the brightest month, with the bracing and sparkling sky.

Mardi Himal Trek in the Winter Season

The Winter month falls from December to February. The places along the Mardi Himal Trek can be cold during the winter, but that excites most trekkers. The temperature of the Mardi Himal trek itself can be as low as -8 degrees Celcius, which invites trekkers to visit this region in gratifying climatic conditions.

Daytime is pleasingly and moderately mild with sunshine. Despite being cold, the skies are usually clear, mountain views are at their best. It may not be a suitable season for beginners, but skilled trekkers will have no problem with Mardi Himal Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty

Mardi Himal Trek is graded as a slightly tricky trek. It means any enthusiastic trekker with an average fitness level and desire can accomplish the trek easily. But you should always be aware of personal injury which may occur during the trek.

Though uphill, the walking lengths are short and simple. The walk normally goes via narrow paths and steep slopes, which might be slightly challenging for novice trekkers. Normally you will walk up to 5 or 6 hours a day during the trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Cost

When you are thinking about exploring the Himalayas like Mardi Himal, there will be many factors to consider, like route, best time, and how fit we need to be? But one of the most important confusion will be, "How much does Mardi Himal Trek cost?"

Whether you are budget dependent or not, it is essential to consider how much you want to pay for the trip and what is the actual cost. The baseline cost of the Mardi Himal Trek will depend on the number of variables. Your cost will change based on how comprehensive you want your trip to be.

On average Mardi Himal, the trek will generally be 9-13 days, and the cost is generally somewhere between USD 1155 to USD 1060. This price includes domestic flights, trekking permits, meals, professional trekking guides, porters, accommodation, entry fees, and others. You will get some discounts if you are in groups. The cost of the Mardi Himal Trek highly depends upon travelling in private or in a group.

Mardi Himal Trek Altitude

                                                Photo: Altitude Chart

Highlights

  • Reach Mardi Himal Base (4,500 m).
  • Point of view of the refreshing Himalayas including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre Himal, and many more.
  • Relaxing Hot spring located at Jhinu Danda.
  • First-hand experience of rural village life at the homestay in mountain lodges.
  • Beautiful Pokhara Valley and the Phewa Lake.
  • Traditional villages were full of distinct cultures.
  • Beautifully decorated Rhododendron forest.
  • Rich flora and fauna inside Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Outside and Campfire in the serene Himalayan region.

Itinerary

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It is a notice to all our guests joining Mardi Himal Trekking that our journey will begin with an 8-9 hour local bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Phedi. This will be included in the package; however, you can book a Private Jeep for a luxury ride with an added cost. If you take a private Jeep, you can reach Phedi directly, which will save your time.

We, The Himalayan Odyssey, will organize the Mardi Himal Trek with the most suitable arrangements. However, there can be some issues that are beyond our handle. Heavy rainfall, snowing, avalanches and landslides can extend the trip in the lower altitude region of Annapurna.

This itinerary is only for guidelines. We can customize the itinerary according to your requirement and the time you have.

Abbreviation

B - Breakfast
L - Lunch
D - Dinner

On this day, you will have the chance to meet your guide and clear your confusion, if there is any. We will also do some shopping for your trek.

Later, you can go around the famous UNESCO World Heritage sites around Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal, and it houses heritages of-of religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism. You can go to Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Pashupati, and Swayambhunath. We can arrange transportation and tour guide in additional charge if you want to.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,264 ft.

After breakfast, we drive west of Kathmandu along the bank of the gushing Trishuli River, passing lush forest, terraced farms, and small shops by the side of the road. As we approach the “City of Lake -Pokhara”, we get great views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Nilgiri. Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6–7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude827 m/2,700 ft.

After early morning breakfast, we drive through the lush forest to Phedi – the starting point of the trek. We walk via stone steps, terraced fields, and through villages and forests before reaching Dhampus – the perfect spot for lunch. We continue towards Deurali – a small village stunningly located on a ridge with impressive views of the Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, and Machhapuchhare. Overnight in Deurali

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time4-5 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,100 m/6,720 ft.

Today the trail passes through the lush forest covered with red rhododendrons. Flowers are commonly seen in Nepalese hills. The trail is quiet until we reach the forest camp, where we can rest and explore the areas. Overnight in Forest Camp

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time6–7 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,520 m/8,064 ft.

After breakfast, we continue through the dense forests enjoying Nepal’s lush biodiversity and reach the low camp. The low camp serves astonishing views of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Mardi, and more. Overnight in Low Camp

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5–6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,970 m/9,504 ft.

Today we continue towards Mardi Himal, climbing alongside the hill. Eventually, the temperature drops and vegetation gets thinner and gives way to scrub rhododendron bushes. If lucky, we might enjoy the view of Danphe pheasant (national bird of Nepal) on our way to the high camp. The high camp offers a mind-blowing view of Mt. Mardi, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and more Himalayas. Overnight in high camp.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time3–4 hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,540 m/11,328 ft.

We make several ups and downs on our trek and sometimes walk on a steep and narrow trail. The trail passes through pasture and hikes along a small ridge before reaching the Upper Viewpoint. The Upper Viewpoint offers a stunning view of Mt. Mardi Himal (5,587m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Baraha Shikhar (Mt. Fang) (7,647m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m) and other. We then descend back to the high camp. Overnight in high camp

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude4,250 m/13,600 ft.

Today we take a different route from high camp to Sidhing village for more experience. This route allows us to explore the variety of flora & fauna and ethnic villages. Overnight in Sidhing Village.

  • Accommodation Teahouse Lodge
  • MealsB,L,D
  • Time7–8 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,700 m/5,440 ft.

After early morning breakfast, we trek down to Lumre, finally reaching the road route. And from Lumre, we board on a private vehicle that drives to the domestic airport at Pokhara. We take a flight back to Kathmandu. A representative from The Himalayan Odyssey will receive us and drive us back to the hotel. In the evening, we attend a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the trek. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • MealsFarewell Dinner
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,300 m/4,264 ft

Cost Details

Included
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with BB plan
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
  • Annapurna Conservation Area entry fee and TIMS card
  • Experienced Himalayan trek guide and porter (2 trekkers: 1 guide and porter)
  • Tourist Bus for Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu. (domestic flight if extra charge added)
  • Private vehicle from Pokhara to Phedi
  • Sharing Jeep from Sidhiung to Pokhara
  • Arrival transfer from the international airport to your hotel
  • Tea house lodge during your trek
  • First Aid Kit during the trek
  • Staff Insurance
  • Salary, food, and accommodation of your staff during the trek
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Tour Certificate
  • Farewell Dinner
Excluded
  • International flight ticket
  • International airport tax
  • Visa Fee
  • Other personal items. (Phone calls, snacks, hot and cold drinks, laundry, alcohol, extra porter, shower, etc )
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for staff and guide
  • Private Travel Equipment
  • Excess baggage cost during your domestic flight
  • Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above

Good to Know

Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek

Every trekking requires certain preparation of gears and types of equipment for the journey to make your trip more comfortable. It is recommended to carry the necessary and light things so that it will be easy while you are walking. The following belongings are recommended that should be brought, although we concede that our clients have their own decision for the clothing. To know what to expect in the Mardi Himal Trek, we have prepared some useful clothing & gear during the trek.

 

Travel Documents

  • Airline tickets (confirmation and itinerary)
  • Nepal Visa form (may be obtained at Kathmandu Airport)
  • Travel insurance policy documents
  • Valid passport
  • Copy of passport (2 copies, first page only)
  • Passport photos (4)

Travel Equipment

  • Duffel bag (100 liters; no wheels or rigid handles)
  • Lightweight, duffel bag
  • Luggage locks
  • Travel wallet
  • Passport/money belt
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Travel plug adapters
  • Electrical converter

Travel Clothing

  • Quick-dry undergarments
  • Synthetic or wool T-shirt
  • Long-sleeve, travel-friendly shirt and pants
  • Casual shoes
  • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks

Trekking Equipment

  • Day pack (25–35 liters)
  • Sleeping bag comfortable to 0°F (dependent upon season, weather forecast and personal preference)
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Camp shoes (down booties or running shoes)
  • LED headlamp with extra batteries
  • Trekking poles

Trekking Clothing

  • Wool or synthetic T-shirts (2)
  • Mid-weight fleece or soft-shell jacket (2)
  • Mid-weight down or synthetic parka with hood
  • Convertible hiking pants
  • Fleece pants or insulated pants
  • Lightweight waterproof/breathable rain jacket and pants
  • Mid-weight waterproof and fleece gloves or mittens
  • Sun hat
  • Mid-weight wool or synthetic socks (3 pairs)
  • Liner socks (optional)
  • Glacier sunglasses
  • Neck gaiter, balaclava, Buff or bandana

Food

  • Energy bars
  • Electrolyte replacement drink mix
  • Snacks (cookies, GORP, Snickers, etc.)

FAQs

  • Q1. Where is Mardi Himal?

    Mardi Himal with an altitude of 5,587-metre (18,330 ft) peak is beneath the striking Machapuchare in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

  • Around six hours of drive from Kathmandu takes us to Pokhara. Then drive to the trailhead at Dhampus. The walk goes on through the forest until low camp. Further, arrive at high camp which again appears stunning views facing the entire Annapurna range.  Reaching a base camp of Mardi rewards us with the views of overlooking Annapurna ranges. Leaving High camp we decline to the natural hot spring at Jhino Danda to be refreshed. We drive back to Pokhara and finally to Kathmandu.

  • The highest elevation of Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal base camp at 4500m.

  • The best time to trek Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The rainy weather stops, and thick sun-blocking clouds also decline. The clear skies provide the most spectacular vistas with those breathtaking views during those seasons.

  • Yes, you will need an Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit while trekking to Mardi Himal.

  • The route is decorated with charming landscape and alluring mountain views together with terraced farmlands, forests, and high mountain camps. Mardi Himal Trek delivers imaging of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.

  • Yes, it is possible to trek Mardi Himal Trek without a guide as this is not a restricted area. But you need to be a little careful while traveling solo to Nepal Himalayas as the trial is a little adventurous.

  • The daily gain in altitude during Mardi Himal Trek is about 400 to 450 meters.

  • It takes about 10 to 13 days to complete Mardi Himal Trek according to your itinerary.

  • The menu in Mardi Himal is a mixture of traditional local, Asian, and western food almost everywhere but as we go up close, the menu will be limited. We extremely suggest liquids green tea, lemon tea, hot lemon, ginger tea and garlic soup(must), etc. at high altitude and also the fresh vegetable items for well-being.

  • Mardi Himal Trek with kids is a suitable short trek for kid’s families. A kid age above 12 years old can easily trek this destination.

  • It is always an excellent plan to include in physical exercises before trekking. Not that you have to be all athletic. A normal level of physical fitness will make the trip less stressful.

  • If you are allergic to specific medicines, it is better to consult your doctor and bring your own. The Himalayan Odyssey will facilitate you with medical kits and other safety concerns to avoid altitude sickness and other sicknesses.

  • To accomplish this trek, past hiking experience would be an advantage although no technical skills are necessary. Novice trekkers can do this trek but should be able to walk 5 to 6 hours a day at a fair pace with a light day pack. 

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