Mardi himal trek lies in Annapurna region. Mardi Himal peak is a small peak, 5,587-meter high mountain situated close to holy mountain Mt. Machapuchare. It was first climbed by Basil Goodfellow in 1961.
For those with a short period of time or as an introduction to the mountains of Nepal, this trip is ideal because it just a week trip in Nepal. Mardi himal trek starts fom Pokhara. Pokhara itself is a famous tour destination in Nepal.
The trail takes you, through the old rhododendron woods, to lap of the Mardi Himal. Although the trek is named after the small mountain (Mardi Himal peak is classified as trekking peak), you will get an opportunity to embrace gigantic Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre as the Mardi Himal itself lies just beneath those giants.
This Mardi Himal trek also introduces you to other prominent mountains such as Hiunchuli, Gangapurna and Annapurna. Thus this trek will surely leaves you with an experience of what it feels like to trek in the Himalayas around the gigantic prominent mountains of Nepal.
The Mardi Himal trek trail, located just east of the Annapurna Base Camp trail. It is a hidden gem. Only the few hikers make it to Mardi Himal’s Base Camp despite of its magnificent positioning at the base of Mardi Himal. You can see 90% of the ABC trekking trail during hike to mardi himal base camp.
Surrounded by Annupurna range closely facing you in one side and lush green forest and river valleys in another side. This trail is magnificent. Until you climb up about 3,300m, the trail winds along narrow trails through ancient rhododendron trees.
Moving further along the ridge-way just beside the massive Annapurna south to Mardi Himal Base Camp which is just 3-4 hours of hiking from the High Camp, the trail lets you to be grasp the close beauty of the entire Annapurna Range. In the midway to the Base Camp you can have a magnificent perspective from the Upper view point, which is just around two hours from High Camp.
Table of Contents
Mardi Himal Trek highlights
- Mardi Himal trek offers the greatest view of the Annapurna range and closest view of Mt Fishtail (machhapuchre)
- 90% sight of famous ABC trekking trail
- Can see Mt Annapurna with height above 8000 meters
- Prolonged hike in an environmentally favorable setting in the Annapurna region through a rhododendron jungle.
- Short trek from lake city – pokhara
- Close view of mountains on one side and wide view of Pokhara valley on other side.
Best Season of Mardi Himal Trek
Autumn Season in Nepal is from mid-September through early November. The autumn season is the peak and finest season to go for Mardi Himal trek as the weather remains stable with a lower chance of rainfall and snow. Trekking becomes pleasant in the autumn season with dazzling sky with moderate temperature.
The second-best time of year to go for Mardi Himal trekking is from March to May i. e. the spring season. The spring season is the season of colors. The colors of Rhododendron flowers, Oak flowers, etc. will lights up the entire forest. Days are warmer and nights are cooler in this season.
The months of December through February i.e. the Winter season are clear with higher possibility of snowfall, also the temperatures can drop very low. You may enjoy the snowy trail during this season. But in winter, trekking along the ridge of mardi himal trekking trail is technical. It is suggested to skip upper view point or any hike above high camp of Mardi trek trail.
Not favorable for still doable season is Monsoon season, which lasts from May to June. However, the valleys and forest begins to shine with with flowers and green leaves which makes this season still a fantastic time to travel. Expect to get rainfall and wet trail. Clouds may prevail most of the mardi trek duration in Monsoon. Also, you will encounter lots of leeches on this season. However, greenery of this season is mind blowing. View of clouds below you on the valley of ABC trail and Pokhara valley will give stunning experience. You might get a chance to walk on the cloud line.
Leeches are very active at this time of year in Mardi Himal trek, because of the early wooded areas. Thus, at this time of year prepare for leech and use long trekking pants. Additionally, carrying a leech/mosquito repellent spray is advised. The trekking in this season is unpredictable and memorable adventure.
How difficult is Mardi Himal Trek?
Nepal’s stunning Annapurna region is best explored with mardi himal trek. It is a moderately challenging short hike to the captivating Mardi Himal base-camp. It does not require previous trekking experience, but your physical strength and stamina should be at a moderate level. Mardi Himal trek takes you up to approximately 4,500 meters within the one week of trekking duration.
As you will be ascending high altitude in less time, Altitude sickness can be a things to consider. But it wont be any problem for a novice trekkers. If you follow our itinerary, you will be ascending only approx 500 m height a day. But on the day when you climb up to the Mardi Base Camp from high camp village; you will be ascending approx 1000 m meter high but you will again return back to the high camp for the night. Thus, there is not much to worry about the altitude sickness for trekkers of all age and any .
Most trekkers categorize this trek as easy trek as you will only have to walk 5-6 hours. There are lot of rest points in between next destination and the trekking trail is relatively easy.
Choosing the right timing for your trek is essential, especially when navigating through rough and slippery terrains. Which can be particularly challenging during the rainy snowy season. Rainy from June to August and snow from Dec to Feb. To have good trekking experience it is recommended to choose a suitable season.
In comparison to other treks in the area including Thorong La Pass or Annapurna Base Camp; Mardi Himal trek is less strenuous and still offers a unique set of challenges with more rewards.
Challenges of Mardi Himal trek:
- Altitude sickness: To ensure a comfortable Mardi Himal trek one must prioritize acclimatized trek itinerary and route. When ascending, go slowly. It’s crucial to acclimate properly in order to avoid altitude sickness. To ensure a smooth adjustment process with changing elevation, it is best advised that you take sufficient time & maintain proper hydration levels. While taking regular breaks during mardi himal trek you will explore extensively. You will see plenty of rest points where you can gather your strength to move further uphill. Listening closely to what your body requires to accomplish the trek is very important. Additionally, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare provider prior to beginning this adventure; especially if any pre-existing medical conditions prevails.
- Weather: Choosing the right timing for your trek is essential. During the rainy season from June to August be aware of wet and rainy trail. Be aware of snowy trail in winter.
Do I require a guide for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Not by law. But it is best to have a guide if you want to travel freely. No stress of management and getting lost. A trekking guide worth for the money you pay to him. Porter carrying your bag worth more than you can imagine before actually taking load your bagpack in that high altitude trail. Mardi Himal trek can be done independently but might not be everyone’s choice. Mardi Himal trail is well marked with white & blue strips. However, the trail to basecamp needs local guide for navigation. Finding accommodation can be tricky by just arriving at a guest house and asking if they have a room.
This walk may be difficult for inexperienced hikers for a number of reasons, including the high altitude, unpredictability of the weather in the Himalaya, and steep ascents and descents. It might be best to join a tour group of Nepalgram if you have never gone on a hike at this high altitude. Our trek package includes lodging, transportation, permits, guides, and some meals. If you want a stress-free hiking vacation, it’s a fantastic choice.
Outline itinerary for Mardi himal trek
- Day 1-Drive to Pokhara, west of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Day 2-Drive from Pokhara to Dhampus (1640m / 5,380ft) and trek to Deurali (2100m / 6,889ft).
- Day 3-Trek from Deurali (2100m / 6,889ft) to Forest Camp (2600m / 8,530ft).
- Day 4-Trek from Forest Camp (2600m / 8,530ft) to High Camp (3600m / 11,811ft).
- Day 5-Trek from High Camp (3600m / 11,811ft) to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m /14,763ft) and to Low Camp (3,050m / 10,006ft).
- Day 6-Trek from Low Camp (3,050m /10,006ft) to Jhinu Danda (1780m / 5,839ft).
- Day 7-Jhinu Danda/Landruk to Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi (1,150m/3,770ft) drive to Pokhara (820m) via Nayapul (1050m).
COST DETAILS OF ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE
All inclusive package is one of the famous trek package sold by most of the trekking agencies in Nepal. But with Nepalgram Adventure you can choose cheaper and high end package.
In all inclusive package, Domestic flights, Airport pickup and drop by private car for domestic and international flights as per the itinerary, Three nights in a Standard Hotel in Kathmandu, B/B (bed and breakfast) is included.
Also this package would include all Breakfast with tea, Lunch and Dinner during the trek and fresh fruit every night after dinner, if you are with Nepalgram Adventure all inclusive package.
All agency offer accommodation during the trek and all necessary paperworks, entry permits & Annapurna conservation area entrance fee.
Fluent English speaking and trained, Government licensed guide including all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance during the trek and tour, a helpful porter with proper equipment (one porter for two people) is included in both service and all inclusive package.
Cost of Nepalgram adventure Mardi trek package includes all government taxes and office expenses.
If you have tour in the itinerary, guided city tour of Kathmandu; includes 4 destinations as Living goddess, Cremation place, Boudhanath & monkey temple. Nepalgram adventure includes Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fees, and Credit card fee for online payable amount
To give you extra service we have added Value – (1) Dawn sleeping bag, Dawn Jacket to be returned after the trek(2) Waterproof duffel Bag, Walking Poles, quick dry T-shirt, Cap – to take away(3) Oxymeter to check your oxygen saturation and Heart beat with medical kit box carried by Guide(4) Satellite Phone for extremely remote destination
COST DETAILS OF ALL INC PACKAGE – MARDI HIMAL TREK
You have to pay your Nepal entry visa fee. You may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at International Airport – Kathmandu. You need 2 passport size photos and $50 dollar.
Your Travel and medical insurance can be arranged as exclusion but we recommend you to buy your own insurance or make sure your credit card company covers insurance. As Mardi himal trekking is not high altitude trek, most of the credit card insurance covers the travel insurance.
Of course, all the alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot and cold drinks are exclude/. Tea or coffee in the morning are included with breakfast.
Tourism sector of Nepal is dependent on tipping culture. So, tips for the guide, porter and driver is excluded. Tipping is expected. You can tip 18 to 30 percent of your mardi himal trekking cost as tips among all crew members.
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