Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. After check-in, take some time to rest and recover from your flight. If you arrive early, you can explore the bustling streets of Thamel, where you will find vibrant shops, local eateries, and cafés. In the evening, there will be a briefing session about the trek, and your guide will answer any questions you may have about the upcoming days.
After an early breakfast, Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes approximately 6 hours. The road winds through beautiful countryside landscapes, passing terraced fields, rural villages, and the banks of the Trishuli River. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to take in views of the Himalayan range, with distant glimpses of peaks like Manaslu and Annapurna. Once we reach Pokhara, check into your hotel, and take a leisurely walk along Phewa Lake, a serene spot perfect for relaxation. In the evening, enjoy dinner with a view of the lake and mountains.
After breakfast, we begin the journey towards Kande, where we start our trek. The drive takes about an hour and a half, after which we begin our ascent. The initial part of the trail takes us through the village of Australian Camp (2,200 m), offering spectacular views of the Annapurna range. From here, the trail climbs steadily through lush forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo, reaching Forest Camp (2,600 m) by the afternoon. This is a tranquil and scenic campsite nestled in the mountains, where we will spend the night in basic tea houses, surrounded by nature.
Today, we continue our ascent towards High Camp. The trail climbs through dense forests and offers occasional clearings with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We will stop at Badal Danda (3,215 m), a beautiful ridge that offers breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and other peaks in the Annapurna range. From here, we continue on a more exposed and scenic route, climbing higher through alpine meadows and rocky terrain until we reach High Camp at 3,550 meters. High Camp offers some of the most spectacular views of the Annapurna and Mardi Himal peaks, making it an unforgettable stop.
Today is one of the highlights of the trek! We wake up early to hike to Mardi View Point (4,500 m), where the panoramic views are simply stunning. On a clear day, you can see the towering peaks of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare (Fish Tail), and the Annapurna Massif up close. After soaking in the views and taking some memorable photos, we begin our descent back to Low Camp (2,970 m), retracing our steps down through the forest. The descent is much easier on the body, and we reach Low Camp in time to relax, enjoy a warm meal, and soak in the tranquility of the mountains.
After breakfast, we begin the descent towards Sidding (1,745 m), a small village where we will enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch. The trek is mostly downhill, passing through forests, farmlands, and remote villages. Once we reach Sidding, we take a short drive back to Pokhara (around 1.5 hours), where we check into our hotel. The rest of the evening is free to relax and reflect on your trek, perhaps taking a leisurely walk along Phewa Lake or enjoying some local cuisine.
After breakfast in Pokhara, we start the journey back to Kathmandu. The scenic drive takes about 7 hours, giving you one last opportunity to take in the beauty of rural Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy some free time to shop for souvenirs or explore the city. In the evening, we will have a farewell dinner, where we’ll celebrate your successful completion of the Mardi Himal trek and enjoy traditional Nepali dishes.
Your adventure with Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition comes to an end today. You will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. We hope you have fond memories of your trek to Mardi Himal and that you will return to Nepal for another adventure in the future. Safe travels!
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively short and moderate trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers trekkers an amazing experience with a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli mountains. The trek typically takes 5-9 days and reaches an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at Mardi Himal Base Camp, providing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The trek is considered less crowded compared to other popular routes in the Annapurna region, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Poon Hill. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a more peaceful trekking experience in the Himalayas. The route is suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness levels, as the highest altitude reached is relatively lower than other high-altitude treks in Nepal.
The best time to trek Mardi Himal is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season, from March to May, and the post-monsoon (autumn) season, from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally stable, and trekkers can enjoy clear skies and spectacular mountain views. Spring (March-May) is especially beautiful with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, creating a colorful backdrop along the trail.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, particularly at higher altitudes, and snowfall may make some sections of the trail difficult to navigate. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and trail obstructions, making it less ideal for trekking. However, if you prefer solitude and are well-prepared, trekking in the offseason may still be possible.
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. It is not as strenuous as some of the more challenging treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, but it still requires a reasonable level of fitness. Trekkers should be prepared for gradual ascents, some steep sections, and walking for 5-7 hours a day. The highest point, Mardi Himal Base Camp, is at an altitude of 4,500 meters, which is high enough to potentially cause altitude sickness, so it's important to take it slow and allow for acclimatization.
While the trek is suitable for trekkers with some previous hiking experience, it’s essential to be prepared for varying weather conditions, rugged terrain, and altitude challenges. Proper acclimatization, sufficient hydration, and regular rest are key to having a safe and enjoyable trek. With the right preparation, the Mardi Himal Trek can be a rewarding adventure for trekkers of all ages.
Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek is primarily in tea houses or local lodges. These are simple, family-run establishments that provide basic amenities, including a bed, blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. Rooms are typically small but clean, and while they may not have heating, many lodges offer hot drinks and hot water showers for an additional charge.
In the lower sections of the trek (lower elevations like Pothana and Australian Camp), you’ll find more comfortable tea houses with better facilities, such as Wi-Fi and electricity. As you gain elevation, the accommodation becomes more basic, and facilities like Wi-Fi and hot showers are not available. However, the warmth of the local hospitality and the stunning views make up for the lack of luxury. If you're trekking with Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition, we ensure that your accommodations are comfortable, and we help with any special requirements along the way.
While the Mardi Himal Trek is a well-established route and can technically be done independently, having a guide is highly recommended for several reasons. A guide not only helps with navigation but also provides valuable insights into the culture, flora, and fauna of the region. They can assist with ensuring your safety, especially in higher altitudes where there’s a risk of altitude sickness. A guide from Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition will be trained in first aid and altitude sickness management, offering you peace of mind.
Moreover, trekking with a guide supports the local economy and helps ensure that you experience the trek to its fullest. Guides also have relationships with local tea house owners, ensuring smoother logistics and better accommodations along the way. For those who prefer more independence but still want support, we also offer the option of trekking with a porter, allowing you to carry only a light daypack while enjoying the services of an experienced local guide.
The cost of the Mardi Himal Trek with Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition can vary depending on factors such as the length of the trek, group size, and additional services requested. On average, the cost for a 5-9 day trek, including permits, guide, porter, and accommodation, ranges from USD 500 to USD 800 per person for a standard trek package. This price typically includes all necessary permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS card), accommodation, meals during the trek, a licensed guide, and a porter if needed.
If you prefer additional services, such as private treks, upgraded accommodations, or extra activities like helicopter tours or cultural experiences, the cost may be higher. Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition prides itself on providing a personalized and high-quality service while maintaining affordability. Contact us directly for a detailed quote based on your specific preferences and group size.
The Mardi Himal Trek requires two main permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. The ACAP is required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area, which helps in conservation efforts and managing trekking activities in the region. The TIMS card helps the authorities track trekkers for safety reasons.
Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition will assist you in obtaining both permits as part of the package, so you don’t need to worry about the paperwork. Our team will ensure that all the necessary documents are in order before the start of your trek, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventure in the stunning Annapurna region.
Yes, Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for solo trekkers, although trekking with a guide or as part of a group is recommended for safety reasons. The route is relatively safe, but being in a foreign country and navigating through high altitudes alone can be risky, especially if you're unfamiliar with the terrain and local customs. Solo trekkers may enjoy more freedom, but they also face challenges such as potential language barriers and the need for independent decision-making when it comes to accommodation and logistics.
If you choose to trek solo, it's important to ensure you're physically prepared, familiar with trekking in remote areas, and knowledgeable about how to deal with altitude sickness. Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition offers tailored solo trekking experiences where you can hire a guide and/or porter to ensure safety and enhance your overall trekking experience.
For the Mardi Himal Trek, packing light but efficiently is crucial. Recommended clothing includes moisture-wicking layers, a lightweight down jacket, trekking pants, and a waterproof outer layer. Sturdy trekking boots, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for protection against the sun and cold, especially at higher altitudes.
In addition to your clothing, it’s important to pack a good quality sleeping bag, a water bottle or hydration system, snacks, a first aid kit, and a headlamp or flashlight. The high-altitude nature of the trek means it’s essential to be well-prepared for varying weather conditions, from hot and humid in lower altitudes to cold and windy at higher elevations. Nepal Passion Treks and Expedition will provide a detailed packing list based on your specific itinerary and preferences.
