MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Mardi Trek Route

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Duration

6 Days

Tour Type

Annapurna Trekking

Group Size

20 persons

Location

Mardi Himal

Overview

“The Mardi Himal Trek is a stunning journey through the Annapurna region, offering marvelous scenery of towering peaks, including Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and the Annapurna range. This trek takes you from low paddy fields to cooler hills and finally to the high, remote arctic zone of Mardi Himal, providing diverse landscapes at every step.

Walk through lush rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, traverse scenic ridges, and enjoy peaceful surroundings away from the mainstream trekking routes. Along the way, you'll explore traditional Gurung villages, experiencing their rich culture and customs.

The trek is perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers, offering breathtaking views from the Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters. Whether it's spring’s vibrant blooms or autumn’s crystal-clear skies, this trek promises unforgettable experiences in Nepal’s less-traveled yet spectacular terrain. Embark on the Mardi Himal Trek to immerse yourself in tranquil beauty and awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas!”

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Spectacular Mountain Views

· Close-up views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna range.

Scenic and Peaceful Trails

· Walk through tranquil and less-traveled trails, away from the busy trekking routes of the Annapurna region.

Lush Forests and Unique Landscapes

· Trek through enchanting rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, and experience a transition from lush green hills to the remote alpine zone.

Diverse Elevation Levels

· Journey from low warm paddy fields to cooler forested hills and eventually to the high arctic zone of Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters.

Cultural Exploration

· Discover traditional Gurung villages, interact with locals, and experience their rich culture, customs, and hospitality.

Panoramic Sunrise and Sunset Views

· Witness mesmerizing sunrise and sunset vistas over the snow-capped peaks.

Adventure on High Hills and Ridges

· Trek along scenic ridges offering breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.

Ideal for All Trekking Levels

· Suitable for beginners seeking a moderate challenge and experienced trekkers looking for serenity.

Best Time for Trekking

· Perfect seasons are spring (March-May) with blooming rhododendrons and autumn (September-November) for clear skies and stunning views.

Proximity to Pokhara

· Easily accessible from the scenic lakeside city of Pokhara, making it a convenient trekking destination.

Experience a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion on the Mardi Himal Trek!

Mode of Trekking:

Hotels and in lodge on walks.

Trek Grade:

Moderate to Adventurous

Area of Trek:

Nepal North Mid-West within Annapurna Himalaya region.

Highest Altitude Gain:

At Mardi Himal Base Camp 4,485 m high.

People and Culture:

Mainly populated by Gurung enriched with Buddhist religion and impressive culture.

Trek Duration:

05 Nights and 06 Days (Pokhara to Pokhara)

Average walks:

Minimum 4 hrs to Maximum 6 hrs.

Total Trip:

5 Nights and 6 Days from Pokhara to Pokhara.

Seasons:

All months of the year except monsoon times from June to August, and March to May are good for treks when wild-flowers in full bloom, where most of the days are clear for views Morning and Night time as well in shade will be cold without wind-chill factor, October to December another best months to trek when day is clear, but short sunlight hours due to autumn and winter months will be very cold morning/night times with chances of snow.

INTRODUCTION - MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Mardi Himal Trekking is one of the shortest and smoothest walks on the high hills of the Annapurna Himalaya region, where you will have a glorious and memorable time and experience within a pristine location beneath Mardi Himal and close to towering and majestic Machhapuchare Himal, popularly known as ‘Fish Tail’ peak due to its twin summit tops.

An adventure to Mardi Himal Trekking a marvelous walk on high ridges in the shade of the massive range of Annapurna Mountains, where you will enjoy daily views of the mountains all along the walks to Mardi Himal base camp.

Mardi Himal, a great trekking adventure within a week duration leads you beyond human settlements and villages as well as the beaten tracks away from mainstream trekking trails, where only a few trekkers seldom use this remote and isolated trail.

Walk follows after a short drive from scenic Pokhara city to reach at high hills of Dhampus with a grand fabulous panorama of mountains, and then into serene cool woodland of tall rhododendron-pines-oaks and magnolia trees.

As the walk progresses reaching a much higher country where tree lines disappear for short bushes of Burberry and rhododendrons known as azalea, exploring high areas of Mardi Himal within the majestic Southern Face of Machhapuchare Himal, with great commanding views of Annapurna Himalaya.

After a wonderful feeling reaching the highest spot of the adventure at Mardi Himal base camp, where the return journey leads on the same trail for some days and then on an alternative route to the road head at a warmer farm village taking a short drive back at scenic Pokhara to conclude fabulous moments and great experience on Mardi Himal Trekking.

PACKING LIST FOR MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Clothing

· Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms.

· Trekking Shirts: Lightweight, quick-dry shirts (2-3 pieces).

· Insulation Layer: Fleece jacket or down jacket (essential for high altitudes).

· Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.

· Trekking Pants: Lightweight, durable pants (2 pairs).

· Gloves: Insulated and waterproof gloves.

· Hiking Socks: Woolen or synthetic socks (3-4 pairs).

· Hat and Cap: Warm beanie and a wide-brim sun hat.

· Buff/Scarf: To protect from dust and cold.

· Rain Poncho: For unexpected rain showers.

Footwear

· Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support.

· Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for evenings.

Backpacks

· Daypack: 20-30L for carrying daily essentials.

· Duffel Bag/Backpack: For heavier luggage (carried by porters).

Sleeping Gear

· Sleeping Bag: Warm sleeping bag (rated for -10°C to -15°C).

· Sleeping Bag Liner: For added warmth and hygiene.

Accessories

· Trekking Poles: Adjustable poles for stability.

· Sunglasses: UV-protection glasses for high-altitude glare.

· Headlamp: With extra batteries for nighttime use.

· Water Bottles: Reusable bottles or hydration bladder (2 liters capacity).

· Water Purification: Tablets, filter, or SteriPen.

· Trekking Map: Or guidebook for navigation.

Personal Items

· Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, and small towel.

· First Aid Kit: Personal medications, bandages, blister care, and painkillers.

· Sunscreen: High SPF (30+).

· Lip Balm: With SPF protection.

· Hand Sanitizer: Essential for hygiene.

Snacks and Energy

· Energy bars, trail mix, chocolates, or dried fruits for extra calories.

Electronics

· Camera with extra batteries or power bank.

· Phone with charger (solar charger can be handy).

Miscellaneous

· Cash: Local currency for small expenses.

· Permits: TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

· Notebook/Diary: To jot down your trek memories.

· Garbage Bag: To carry your waste responsibly.

Pack wisely to ensure comfort and safety while enjoying the stunning Mardi Himal Trek!

Included/Excluded

Three times meals (breakfast,lunch,dinner) breakfast with hot drinks .

transportation to trekking starting point and from ending point to Pokhara (airport pick up and drop )

All necessary permits for trekking

accommodation during the trek (Twin Sharing Base)

duffels bags , sleeping bags , down jackets if you needed

First Aid and Eco trained English Speaking professionals to guide with a medical kit .

Staff insurance, well-paid salary, equipment, food, Hotel, etc.

2 nigts hotel in pokhara at silver oaks inn

Certificate of achievement .

Farewell dinner in Nepali restaurant in Thamel before you depart from Nepal.

An airport transfer as per your departure date and time

ktm-pkr,pkr-ktm by tourist bus

International airfare, Nepal visa fee and any kind of insurance

yours nepali visa , hotel in kathmandu , travel insurance

Bar bills and extra foods and hot drinks , drinking water

wifi, hot showers, local entrance fees, donations, mobile or power bank charge

Hotel in kathmandu and pokhara (for not included on price )

Local entrance fees and donation .

ktm-pkr or pkr- ktm by air

tips for guide (expected)

Itinerary

Day 1

DRIVE TO KANDE AND TRK TO PITAM DEURALI DIS.(5.5KM) TIM;. (3,4 hours)

First day of mardi himal trek will start with driving from pokhara to kande (1900mtr) gradully climb up to australian camp (2000mtr). ("STORY of australian camp is different actually some researchers came from austria to research about butterfly they camped there place was good for camping after finished there research thy request to nepal tourism board to named by austrian camp but local peoples make wrong pronounce by australian camp after all known as abc ") continue to pitam deurali and over night stay .

Day 2

PITAM DEURALI (2100mtr.) TO FOREST CAMP (2440mtr.) DIS.(8km.) TIM.( 4,5 hours)

Catching morning views from Pitam deurali, our second day walk leads From Deurali our route heads north leaving the main trekking trails into sheer wilderness where walks leads along a ridgeline into serene forested area with cool temperature views of Annapurna I and South and Huin-Chuli, includes Annapurna IV -II and Lamjung Himal towards east after a good walk reaching our overnight stop in the midst of forest surrounding at Kokar Forest Camp with few basic lodges for trekkers.

Day 3

TREK TO HIGH CAMP(3700mtr.) _dis(8 km) Tim-(5,6 hours)

From Forest Camp, where morning walk heads to steep uphill path with steep climb to reach a pasture land for overnight stop on route Mardi-Fish Tail base camp with super views of surrounding landscapes and mountains at close range. reach low camp . This scenic spot offers grand panorama of beautiful landscapes and snow-clad peaks in perfect tranquility heading higher to reach at High Camp as the air gets thinner and cooler with steep climb to reach at High Camp where tree lines fades to short rhododendron and juniper bushes.

Day 4

HIKE TO MARDI VIEW POINT OR BASE CAMP IN EARLY MORNING FOR SUNRICE (4400mtr) ATER GET BACK TO HIGH CAMP AND TREK TO BADAL DANDA DIS-(6km) time- (5,6 hours)

At High Camp with spare day to explore then unexplored areas of Mardi Himal close to Machhapuchare Himal or Fish Tail peak base camp, as morning hike leads to climb on a high ridge then reaching at the highest spot of the adventure at Mardi Himal base camp above 4,485 m high. After walking on a steep slope along ridgeline to reach within this hidden country on the foot of Mardi Himal and close within South Face of Mt. Machhapuchare; this area also known as the 'Other Sanctuary' named by early explorer and pioneer. After being on the high side of Mardi areas then return on the same route back to the lodge at High Camp for last overnight around tranquil areas of Mardi Himal.

Day 5

TREK TO KALI-MATI Dis-(8km) Tim-(4,5 hours)

Badal danda means cloudy hill this place is perfect for 360 views of green, blue vally and snow caped mountain after breakfast trek down to kalimaati via forest camp .

DAY 6

TREK TO LWANG VILLAGE EXPLORE Dis-(6km) Tim-(4,5hour) TEA GARDEN THEN DRIVE TO POKHARA

Walking through local village, agriculture fild and forest to lwang village is amazing gradually down and mountain flat to lwang It is a gurung village with old architecture after enjoy local food as lunch we can drive back to pokhara by local bus or sharing jeep or privet cab

Travel Styles

Cultural

Nature & Adventure

Independent

Activities

Festival & Events

Special Interest

Facilities

Wifi

Gymnasium

FAQs

The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate trek in Nepal, making it a good choice for both beginners and experienced trekkers

The trail passes through forests, ridges, and rocky sections. Some parts are steep and narrow, especially near High Camp and Base Camp. The final ascent to Base Camp can be challenging due to strong winds and steep inclines.

The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes 5-7 days to complete.

Mardi Himal is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, opposite Annapurna I and Machhapuchre (Fishtail Mountain). The trek leads to Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500m (14,763ft).

Beautiful vistas of Hiunchuli, Machhapuchre, and Annapurna South may be seen throughout the Mardi Himal Trek. It has a variety of sceneries, including snow-capped peaks, lush woods, and rural communities. At 4,500 meters, Mardi Himal Base Camp offers stunning views of the Himalayas. There are fewer people on the route, making it a serene experience. Highlights include the opportunity to unwind at Jhinu Danda's hot springs and cultural interactions in ethnic settlements.

A less congested option to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is Mardi Himal. It offers a virgin track with breathtaking sceneries, a variety of flora and animals, and breathtaking Himalayan views. It opened for trekking in 2012. It is one of Nepal's least frequented but most rewarding trekking locations because of its low peak elevation and secluded beauty.

The total trekking distance is about 40–50 km, depending on the route.

Yes, beginners can join the Mardi Himal Trek. It's an excellent choice for first-time trekkers because it is shorter and less demanding than other Annapurna treks. Beginners, on the other hand, should expect to acquire altitude gradually and be able to walk for several hours per day.

To prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek, you can engage in cardiovascular exercises such as walking, hiking, cycling, or swimming to build endurance. Strengthening exercises for the legs, core, and back, along with regular practice on uneven terrain, will help prepare your body for the trek. Aim for at least 3-4 weeks of training before the trek, focusing on stamina and overall fitness.

You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits allow access to the Annapurna region and help track trekkers for safety purposes.

Yes, the necessary permits (ACAP and TIMS) are included in our Mardi Himal Trek package.

You can get the permits from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu. If you hike with us, we will handle the permissions on your behalf.

Accommodation includes lodges along the trail, offering basic facilities such as twin-sharing rooms and attached bathrooms at some locations.

Teahouses have electricity, but hot showers may come at an extra charge. Facilities improve as you descend but can be limited at higher altitudes.

You will find Wi-Fi at most lodges, but it may incur an extra cost. Charging points are available during the trek but may come for a fee.

There is a basic restroom up to Mardi High Camp, and western and squat restrooms are both available at the tea house.

Yes, tea house don't provide such as personal stuff so better to have own.

We provide nutritious and delicious meals, including Nepali, Tibetan, and Western cuisine. We provide full board (main course) meals that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

We encourage you not to consume water directly from local water sources such as taps, wells, or rivers. Bottled water is readily available at en-route businesses. However, for ecological concerns, we recommend that you bring a water bottle and purchase boiled/filtered water from tea cafes. Additionally, you can take purifying pills before drinking.

Eating meat, eggs, and cheese on the Mardi Himal Trek is possible, but there are some things to consider: 1. Meat 🥩 – Not Recommended at Higher Elevations ✅ Available in lower areas (Pokhara, Sidhing, etc.) ❌ At higher elevations, meat is not fresh because there are no refrigeration facilities. Any meat you find has usually been carried up for days by porters/mules, increasing the risk of food poisoning. If you really want meat, stick to lower altitudes or eat it in Pokhara before/after the trek. 2. Eggs 🥚 – Safe & Good for Energy ✅ Eggs are widely available at teahouses and are safe to eat. ✅ Good source of protein and energy. ✅ Options: Boiled eggs, omelets, scrambled eggs, egg fried rice, egg toast. 💡 Tip: Boiled eggs are the safest choice as they’re cooked at high temperatures. 3. Cheese 🧀 – Okay in Moderation ✅ Cheese is usually available in lower areas and sometimes at High Camp. ✅ Yak cheese is a common option—it’s delicious and high in calories. ❌ Cheese is heavy to digest at high altitudes, so eat in moderation to avoid bloating or discomfort.

Best Foods for Mardi Himal Trek: ✔ Dal Bhat (Rice, lentil soup, and vegetables) – best for stamina ✔ Porridge, muesli, or oats – good breakfast options ✔ Vegetable soup & garlic soup – helps prevent altitude sickness ✔ Boiled potatoes & chapati – easy to digest ✔ Tea (ginger, honey, lemon, mint) – keeps you warm and hydrated

The greatest seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant, the temperatures are cool, the skies are clear, and the views are breathtaking.

Weather can significantly affect your trekking experience. Clear skies in spring and autumn provide great views, while monsoon (June-August) brings rain and slippery trails, and winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy.

Trekking during the monsoon season is not recommended due to the wet and treacherous routes. However, winter can be difficult due to colder weather, but if you're an experienced trekker who isn't afraid of the cold, it provides spectacular views and fewer tourists.

Yes! 🌺 You can see beautiful rhododendron flowers on the Mardi Himal Trek, but it depends on the season. Best Time to See Rhododendrons ✅ Spring (March to May) – Peak blooming season! The forests from Forest Camp to Low Camp and High Camp are filled with vibrant red, pink, and white rhododendron blossoms. ✅ The lower part of the trek (especially around Deurali and Forest Camp) has lush rhododendron forests, making the trail colorful and magical.

Yes, altitude sickness can occur above 3,000 meters. It is critical to acclimate correctly by taking break days and climbing gradually. However, this is the lowest danger for the Mardi Himal Trek.

The main health risks are altitude sickness, dehydration, and gastrointestinal issues. Proper acclimatization and hydration are key.

Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) Altitude sickness happens when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, and your body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. It usually starts above 2,500m (8,200 ft) and can become severe if not managed properly.

🟡 Mild AMS (common and manageable). Headache 🤕. Dizziness or lightheadedness. Nausea or lack of appetite Fatigue and problems sleeping. Shortness of breath (🔴) Severe AMS (Dangerous, Requires Descent!) Severe headache (not eased with medication) Vomiting Confusion and trouble walking Shortness of breath even when at rest. Blue lips or fingertips (a lack of oxygen!)

We have first-aid trained guides and emergency evacuation plans, including the option of helicopter rescue if necessary.

You need warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a first-aid kit. Please refer to our equipment section for details.

Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended, especially for steep descents. Other useful items include a headlamp, sunglasses, and a rain jacket.

es, a sleeping bag is highly recommended! While teahouses provide blankets, they may not be warm enough at higher altitudes, especially at High Camp (3,580m) and during colder months.

Temperature Drops Below Freezing 🥶 Nights can be -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) at High Camp. Blankets in teahouses are often thin, dusty, or limited. Hygiene Concerns 🛏️ Teahouse beds are used by many trekkers, and blankets aren’t washed often. A sleeping bag ensures clean and hygienic sleep. Comfort & Better Sleep 🌙 High altitude can make sleeping harder, so a warm and cozy sleeping bag helps.

Yes, you will need a Nepal-government-licensed guide (or porter) for the Mardi Himal Trek as it lies in the Annapurna sanctuary.

Your guide demonstrates the route and guarantees your safety while sharing information about the area. Porters will transport your stuff, enabling you to focus on enjoying the journey.

Since April 2023, the Nepal government has made it mandatory to have a guide while trekking protected regions.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Mardi Himal Trek.

Your insurance should cover health care costs and emergency helicopter evacuation up to the highest trek altitude.

Yes, all nationals, save Indians, require a valid visa for Nepal. You can obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or immigration checkpoints along Nepal's borders. A 30-day tourist visa costs USD 50 and requires a passport with at least six months' validity, a passport-sized photo, and an application fee.

You will board a tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. From Pokhara, we will drive you to Dhampus, the starting point of the trek.

The hike begins in Pokhara, which is accessible by road or flight. This package includes road transportation. However, for an additional fee, you can select the flight option.

Following the trek, we offer a return tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You can also choose private transportation at an extra fee or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

We recommend you book at least a month in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. However, we also have provision for last-minute bookings.

A 10% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. You can pay the remaining balance when you get in Kathmandu. You can pay with cash, bank transfer, credit card, Wise, or Western Union. In Kathmandu, you can also pay with cash. We will also email you payment information.

Yes, cancellation policies apply. Please refer to our terms and conditions page.

No, there are no ATMs on Mardi Himal Trek! You must withdraw enough cash before leaving Pokhara because: No ATMs or banks exist along the trekking route. Teahouses, lodges, and shops only accept cash (Nepali Rupees – NPR). Some places don’t have electricity or mobile networks, so digital payments aren’t an option.

For daily basis to your personal expenses should carry $15 to $20 per day for wifi,hot shower, extra food and drinks, drinking water, electric devices charging etc.

Tour Location

Mardi Trek Route

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MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Duration

Tour Type

Group Size

Location

Overview

MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Highest Altitude Gain:

INTRODUCTION - MARDI HIMAL TREKKING

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Travel Styles

Facilities

FAQs

how hard is mardi himal trek?

how is trail condition of mardi himal tre?

How long does the Mardi Himal Trek take?

Where is Mardi Himal located?

What are the main highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek?

What makes Mardi Himal a unique trekking destination in Nepal?

How many km will be on mardi himal trek?

Can beginners undertake the Mardi Himal Trek?

What kind of physical preparation is recommended for this trek?

What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?

Are the necessary permits included in the trekking package?

Where can I obtain the permits for the Mardi Himal Trek?

What type of accommodation is available during the Mardi Himal Trek?

Are teahouses or lodges furnished with modern amenities such as electricity and hot showers?

Will I have access to Wi-Fi and charging stations along the way?

How is restroom on mardi himal trek?

Do i need to bring my toilet paper?

What kind of meals are provided during the Mardi Himal Trek?

Is safe drinking water available along the trek, or should I bring purification tablets?

Is meat,egg and cheese good to eat on mardi tre?

Which is the best food for madi himal trek?

What is the best time of year to do the Mardi Himal Trek?

How does the weather affect the trekking experience on the Mardi Himal Trek?

Is it safe to trek to Mardi Himal during the monsoon or winter seasons?

can we see rhododendron flowers on the route ?

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Mardi Himal Trek?

What health risks should I be aware of during the Mardi Himal Trek?

What is altitude sickness?

What are the symptoms of AMS?

What emergency procedures are in place during the trek?

What essential items should I pack for the Mardi Himal Trek?

Are trekking poles or other gear recommended for the Mardi Himal Trek?

Is a sleeping bag necessary for this trek?

Why You Should Bring a Sleeping Bag?

Is it necessary to have a guide for the Mardi Himal Trek?

What role do guides and porters play on the trek?

Can I trek Mardi Himal independently without a guide?

Is travel insurance necessary for the Mardi Himal Trek?

What should my insurance cover for this trek?

Do I need a visa for trekking in Nepal, and how can I obtain one?

How do I get to the starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek?

Are domestic flights required to reach the starting point of the trek?

What transportation options are available after completing the trek?

How far in advance should I book the Mardi Himal Trek?

What is the payment process for booking this trek?

Are there any cancellation or refund policies for the trek?

Can i use ATM on mardi himal trek?

How much should i carry for extra expenses in day basis?

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MVTreks and Expedition

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