- Experience the tranquility of the Annapurna region through the less crowded trekking route.
- Observing various species of flora and fauna of Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Witness the great countryside hills, terrace farming, and mountain landscapes
- Explore the ethnic culture and the lifestyle of Gurung and Magar communities.
- From Mardi Base Camp, pristine mountain views of Annapurna ranges, LamjungHimal, Fishtail, and Dhaulagiri.
- Witness magical sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Stay in a traditional tea house that offers an authentic experience and local cuisine.
- Walk along scenic ridge trails with awe-inspiring mountain vistas on each side.
- Disconnect from modern life and connect deeply with nature.
Mardi Himal Trek
9 Days
starting from $650
$ 550
Grade:
Moderate
Group Size:
Min 1 people
Transport:
Bus, Jeep, Car
Altitude:
4,500m
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:
Hotel and Teahouses
Starts At:
Kathmandu
Ends:
Kathmandu
- Operating mountain tours since 2011
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Why You’ll Love Mardi Himal Trek
9 Days Overview of Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is an exotic and interesting trek in Nepal. This is a very popular trekking trail in the western Annapurna region of Nepal. It is located east of Modi Khola across the valley from Hiunchuli. This trail is also known as an eco-tourism trail that passes through lush forests filled with Rhododendrons and other vegetation. The attractions of the trek are pristine mountain views, beautiful valleys, and mixed local culture and landscaped hills. Mardi Himal Trek takes you off ‘the beaten path’ away from the busy trails of the region. The first discovery of Mardi Himal was made in 1961 through a route via the east flank.
Our journey starts from Kathmandu to Pokhara; the city of lakes. The next day, we drive to Kande, where we start our trekking adventure. Our Mardi Himal trek offers magnificent views of the world’s most famous and most majestic mountains including Annapurna I (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna South (7219m), Fishtail (6988m). This trek in Nepal is a unique experience for trekkers with the warm welcome & activities of the local folks who live by the trails as trekkers hike into the thick forests…
Mardi Himal Trek is a short journey in the lovely Annapurna region of Nepal. We can try local delicacies, appreciate the excellent hills and mountain landscapes, and enjoy the pristine views of the mountains. The trek to Mardi Himal is not well marked. On this trek, accommodation is limited so an experienced guide is needed along the way. This journey requires knowledge of the tracks and mountain experience as certain sections are risky.
How is Our Mardi Himal Trek Different From Others?
Glorious Himalaya’s Mardi Himal Trek differs from others due to its reliability, itinerary, and safety-first approach. Here’s how:
Solo and private group tour expert
Glorious Himalaya Trekking has been a trusted expert in organizing solo and private group tours in Nepal’s Himalayan region since 2011. If you’re a solo hiker or a couple seeking a private hiking experience, we’re here to make it happen just for you—no need to join with other travelers. With over a decade of experience, we specialize in creating memorable trekking and adventure experiences. Our dedicated team ensures personalized services, safety, and unforgettable journeys in the majestic Himalayas.
Reliable Travel Agency
Glorious Himalaya is trustworthy and has a good reputation for providing quality service. Our team is experienced and has years of experience in the trekking field. We ensure smooth coordination, communication, and personalized support. Trekkers review us for our punctuality, knowledgeable guides, and excellent customer service.
Curated Itinerary
Glorious Himalayas carefully made the itinerary for Mardi Himal to suit different trekkers with their skill levels and preferences. Whether you are a first-time or experienced trekker, our itinerary suits each of them and has been made by balancing adventure with acclimatization. Also, we offer itinerary customization options so trekkers can plan their trips per their needs and preferences.
Safety First
Your safety is our top priority from the start of the trek until you fly to your home country. On each step of your trek, Glorious Himalaya will be there for you, helping you. Our guides are trained in first aid and high-altitude sickness management. We also ensure proper acclimatization and keep emergency backup plans.
Check out our design itinerary for Mardi Himal Trek, or email us, and we’ll tailor-make an itinerary based on your requirements.
Outline Itinerary Of Mardi Himal Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude | Elevation Gain | Walking Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel | 1,355m | – | – |
| 02 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara | 850m | –550m | 7 hrs (drive) |
| 03 | Trek to Pitam Deurali | 2,100m | +1,250m | 4 hrs walk |
| 04 | Trek to Low Camp | 2,990m | +890m | 6 hrs walk |
| 05 | Trek to High Camp | 3,580m | +590m | 4 hrs walk |
| 06 | Hike to Viewpoint or Mardi Himal Base Camp and return to High Camp | 4,500m | +920m (ascent) | 7 hrs walk |
| 07 | Trek to Sidhing and drive back to Pokhara | 1,850m | –1,730m | 7 hrs walk |
| 08 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1,355m | –450m | 7 hrs (drive) |
| 09 | Departure from Nepal | 1,355m | – | – |
9 Days Mardi Himal Trek Detailed Itinerary
01
DAY
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,355m) and transfer to your hotel.
After your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in medieval and modernized Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by our office representative and transferred to the hotel. After check-in and some refreshments, our senior Sherpa guide will come to meet you and give you a brief orientation about the Mardi Himal Trek.
You can then go for a stroll down the street to get familiar with the neighborhood, have supper and go to bed. This is your first overnight in the valley of temples and cows, probably the most in the world – breakfast
02
DAY
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (850m) - 7hrs Drive
After breakfast, we leave our hotel early morning for a tourist bus drive with scenic views along the bank of Trishuli and Marshyangdi river to Pokhara via Prithivi national highway. The drive could take roughly 7-8 hrs to reach Pokhara. We also have the option for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara for 35 minutes.
We will visit some prime spots in the lake city after refreshing at our hotel we will do a tour of some beautiful places in Pokhara that include Davids fall (if we reach early by road), and the Phewa Lake, etc. we then do an overnight at our hotel by the lake in the lovely ‘city of lakes’ on BB Plan.
03
DAY
Trek to Pitam Deurali (2100m) - 4 hrs walk
After having a hot breakfast in Pokhara at the hotel, we will take a private jeep car/jeep drive to Kande for about 45 minutes. Kande (1770m) is the beginning point of the Mardi Himal Trek. Our 8-day adventurous journey starts with the uphill walk through a beautiful forest and villages to the Australian camp. We can see the magnificent views of the Annapurna range from the Australian camp. We continue our trek to Pothana, where we eat our lunch.
Hike from the Australian camp to Pothana is pleasant and easy. After having lunch, we prolong our hike up to Pitam Deurali (2100m), today’s destination. It takes 4-5 days to get Pritam Deurali from Kande. Stay overnight and have dinner at the lodge in Pitam Deurali.
04
DAY
Trek to Low Camp (2990m) - 6 hrs walk
Today we will start on our discreet trail, leaving other trekkers and even the villagers behind. The trek climbs gently through birch, giant rhododendron forest, mountain oak, maple, hemlock, and daphnia, which make this a lovely enchanting trail to forest camp, from where there are great views across a steep valley to Gandruk, a sizeable Gurung settlement. We then continue uphill through foggy forests of more mountain oaks, and these scenes are astounding to watch in spring when in bloom.
After reaching Forest Camp, we take our lunch and set for a hike that climbs pretty easily through magnificent moss-covered trees in a classic ‘cloud’ forest with swirling mist. We also come across lichens, tree ferns, orchids set amidst tougher oaks; a great variety of flowers and shrubs here, including the fragrant Daphne. As we hike the routes, we find some natural windows in the woods that open up fascinating vistas of Hiunchuli and the deep-cutting traverse towards Annapurna south.
Beyond the horizons as we look down to the left, we see the Modi Khola valley leading up to the Annapurna Sanctuary (another famous trek); At Low Camp, you can spend hours relishing the sight of Machhapuchhre, which now looms almost overhead, so near, but yet so far. The day’s trek takes 6-7 hours. We stay at the local lodge in Low Camp (2990m) for the night hereabout
05
DAY
Trek to High Camp (3580m) - 4 hrs walk
Just a short steep climb, and we come out of the protecting shady forest, brings us to a ridge, now grassy and sometimes under the snow, which takes us up to high camp, which we sometimes reach close to lunch for a well-earned haul up and some rest. This is a second consecutive afternoon of some breathtaking views we enjoy on the way as we acclimatize naturally. Annapurna South seems near enough almost to touch.
The views of the Annapurna Range are exasperating from this point onwards. We take much of the afternoon soaking in the flabbergasting landscapes and exploring this awesome spot. We bunk out here for the night under starry, moonlit skies.
06
DAY
Hike to View point or Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m) and return to High Camp (3580m) -
This is a lovely area to spend the entire day and give our weary bodies a breather. But this doesn’t mean we spend all of our time lazing around. Moving around will be suitable for exploring our nearby surroundings…and the imaginative landscapes. Early in the morning, we set up for the View Point Hike for the surreal views of the Mardi Himal and other peaks.
Moreover, if you are a seasoned hiker, you can hike up to Mardi Himal Base Camp, which takes about 5 hours to reach. For beginner hikers we don’t recommend beginner hikers visit Base Camp due to its difficult and narrow terrain.
We can see breathtaking views of Mardi Himal (5587m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Baraha Shikhar (Mt. Fang) (7647m), Tent Peak (5695m), Singhachuli (6501m), Machapuchhre (6993m) and others from Mardi Himal Base Camp.
After reaching the Base camp or viewpoint, trek back to the high camp for a night’s stay. We can also trek down to Sidhing on this day if you only hike to the viewpoint.
07
DAY
Trek to Sidhing (1850m) - and drive back to Pokhara - 7 hrs walk
Retracing our steps to Low Camp, we descend steeply through a moss-covered rhododendron forest to the scenic Gurung village of Sidhing. We make an easy-going descent through the shades of the forest and out onto terraced fields, down 1600m on the count; this is a different route that’s a roller coaster all the way down to the upper Mardi Khola, the torrents that get its source from the Mardi Himal.
Although isolated and off the much-used ‘teahouse trails,’’ our journey now takes us into different geographical settings of a warmer valley with welcoming, friendly villages. We hike along the banks of the Mardi Khola from the hillock village of vibrant Siding, down through well-cultivated fields, past thatched farms, and over some enjoyable bridges; we are now into typical Nepali countryside where the buffaloes and cows roam free under sunny skies.
After reaching Siding, we take a break for lunch and drive to Pokhara. It is about 3 3-hour off-road downhill drive, overnight at the hotel by the lakeside in Pokhara.
08
DAY
Drive back to Kathmandu (1,355) - 7 hrs drive
While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, we head up to Damauli, Dumre, Mugling, and Kurintar, where Nepal’s first Cable car is operated to reach Manakamana Temple; this is a temple where most Nepalese come to have their wishes granted before leaving home or getting married. From Naubise, we climb up to Thankot, the gateway to Kathmandu. We finally reach our hotel & a lovely, soft, warm bed and farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant with a cultural dance program.
09
DAY
Departure from Nepal
After breakfast and our last day in Kathmandu, our vehicle and escorts will be on standby to drop you off at the international airport three hours before our scheduled flight back home. At Glorious Adventure, meeting you has been a great honor, and we pray for your safe journey home. We will reflect on the wonderful times we spent together. Bon Voyage!!! We hope to see you again someday.
If our above-designed itinerary does not meet your expectation, we’ll craft an itinerary based on your requirements. Just tell us your holiday plan.Â
Mardi Himal Trip Includes
- Airport pick-ups and drop-offs by private vehicles.
- 2 nights of 3-star standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, including buffet breakfast.
- 2 nights of hotel accommodations in Pokhara, including buffet breakfast.
- 4 nights of twin-sharing local lodges accommodation during the trek.
- Every day, 3 meals throughout the trek. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Seasonal fresh fruits every evening after the dinner as desserts during trekking.
- An experienced and certified guide for the trek.
- All the essential trekking permits and paperwork for the trek.
- A comprehensive medical kit for the trek including an oximtere to check your oxygen level and pulse.
- Rain protection duffel bag and sleeping bag to use for the trek.
- Both way tourist bus transports Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
- Private vehicle transport from Pokhara to Kande.
- Local jeep transport from Sidhing to Pokhara on sharing.
- Trip achievement certificate after trip completion.
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at a typical local restaurant with a cultural dance program.
Mardi Himal Trip Exclude
- International airfares and Nepal entry visa.
- Tips to the trekking crews.
- Your travel insurance.
- Any other personal expenses such as WIFI, charging, hot shower, etc which are not included in our cost.
- Porters are available at an additional price.
Some Glimpse of Mardi Himal Trek
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What to Expect During the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is the newly opened and best short trek in Nepal’s Himalayas, offering diverse experiences for trekkers. Trekkers can expect everything from this trek, from Scenic mountain panorama to cultural immersion to wildlife encounters, all in one experience. Still, here is a list of the things you can expect during the Mardi Himal Trek:
Mountain Views
You are in Nepal’s Himalayas, so it’s obvious that the majestic mountain peaks will enhance your journey. The Mardi Himal offers an eye-appealing sight of the mountain peaks of the Annapurna region. Yet, expect to witness Mount Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiuchuli, Mardi Himal, and other surrounding peaks.
Cultural Immersion
Magar and Gurung are primarily inhabitants of the Annapurna region. Thus, trekkers can expect to immerse themselves in their culture during the trek to Mardi Base Camp. They will meet the locals along the way and learn about their customs and way of life. You will stay in a local teahouse and pass through traditional villages, making the journey culturally immersive.
Wildlife and Scenic View
Mardi Himal Trek is in the Annapurna Conservation Area, a home of diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Thus, trekkers can expect to witness scenic views and wildlife throughout their walk in the region. You can enjoy views of the Rhododendron Forest, grassland, and colorful forests in the accompany of snow-capped peaks. Likewise, you can witness numerous wildlife, from species of birds to mammals to other rare.
Moderate Trek
Trekkers don’t need to worry if the Mardi Himal is tough or possesses difficulties, as the trek is easy and seamless. Thus, expect that your trek is moderate and easy-going. The trek’s easy nature makes it ideal for beginner-friendly and family-friendly. Also, the risk of altitude sickness is less concerned during the trek, unlike other popular treks, including the Annapurna Circuit trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek.
What You Should Know About the Cost of the Mardi Himal Trek
What is the foremost thing anyone’s mind arrives at when deciding to explore or be involved in adventure? Probably budget, right? If you have come so far in this package, you must be wondering about the cost of the Mardi Himal Trek. Well, it is a variable factor that changes due to various aspects. However, the Mardi Himal Trek costs $550 per pax. Still, here are the thing that affects and determine the cost of Mardi Himal Trek:
Group Size
The size of the group greatly changes the cost of the Mardi Himal trek. The more you are in a group, the more likely you will get a discount. Thus, you can explore the hidden beauty of the Mardi with your family and friends with no fear of breaking your bank.
Duration of Trek
The duration of the trek along the Mardi Himal determines the cost. If your trek is longer, you’ll have to stay in a tea house and have meals for longer days. If your journey is shorter, your accommodation and meal days will also be shorter, reducing the overall cost of the trek. Yet, if you prefer to extend or shorten the trek, the cost will be less or more.
Transportation
Getting to Mardi Himal involves transportation at the journey’s first step. However, travelers have various transportation options. The journey requires transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kande and returning via Siddhing. Bus, private car, and jeep are transportation options to get to the starting point of the trek, Kande, from Pokhara. Airway and ground transportation are two options to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Thus, your preferred transportation option will change the price of the Mardi Himal.
Guide and Porter Service
Whether hiring a guide and porter impacts the overall cost of the Mardi Himal Trek. Although the guide and porter are helping hands throughout the trek, hiring them can add additional costs. Hiring them might not be wise if you are a tight-budget trekker. But, if you’re okay with spending extra money but want a comfortable and hassle-free trek, hiring a porter and guide is a good decision.
Why Some Seasons Aren’t Ideal for Mardi Trek
Although the Mardi Himal Trek is one of the easiest trekking routes in Nepal and is accessible throughout the year, some seasons are not suitable for attempting the trek, and those are known as off-season. Monsoon and Winter are the off-season for the Mardi Himal Trek, with challenges that impact the overall trekking experience.
Monsoon
Starting in early June and ending in August, monsoon season is one of the less preferred times for the Mardi Himal Trek. The heavy rainfall during the month makes it off-season for Mardi Himal Trek. The rainfall makes the trail slippery and increases the risk of landslides. Also, the leeches-infected trail makes the trek demanding and less-preferable season.
Winter
Winter is the coldest season, spanning from December to February. The harsh weather makes it one of the less preferred off-seasons for trekking in Mardi Himal. Still, Winter is ideal for Mardi Trekking for those preferring to experience snowfall. Still, it comes with challenges, from temperatures dropping to minus degrees, chances of avalanches, and problems of finding accommodations.
Permits and Their Costs for Mardi Himal Trek
To reach Mardi Himal Base Camp, trekkers must obtain a mandatory permit. The permits include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. Without trekking permit, trekkers can’t legally complete the trek. As the trek to Mardi lies within the conservation area of Annapurna, ACAP is essential, and TIMS is optional for most trekking destinations for the trekker’s safety.
Cost of ACAP
|              Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Cost |
| Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â SAARC Nationals | Â Â Â Â Â Â NPR 1,000 (about $8) |
| Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Other Nationals | Â Â Â Â Â Â NPR 3,000 (about $25) |
Cost of TIMS
|                Trekkers’ Information Management System Card Cost |
| Â Â Â Â Â Â Â SAARC Nationals | Â Â Â Â Â Â NPR 1,000 (about $7.50) |
| Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Other Nationals | Â Â Â Â Â NPR 2,000 (about $17) |
Mardi Himal Trek distance from Kathmandu and Pokhara
The journey to Mardi Himal starts from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the favorite tourist destination, Pokhara. The journey moves towards Kande through a drive from Pokhara, and trekking begins. Ground transportation and airways are two options to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu. The distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara is 201km, taking approximately 7 hours. In addition, it takes just 25 minutes to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu by airway.
The journey moves from Pokhara to Kande to start the Mardi Base Camp Trek. Although a local bus is also available from Pokhara to Kande, it is suggested that you take the local jeep. The road condition to Kande from Pokhara is not good, as it is an off-road and gravel section, and the jeep is ideal for such a road. It takes just 45 minutes to reach Kande from Pokhara, covering a distance of 27km.
Routes & Transportation Option for 9 Days Mardi Himal Trek
Here are the route options for 9 day Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek:
Classic Route
The classic route to Mardi Himal starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, then to Kande, and trekking through the Annapurna region. The trek passes through Pritam Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp and reaches Mardi Himal. Then, the trek returns via Siding Village, Pokhara, and Kathmandu. It’s a 9-day itinerary offered by the Glorious Himalayas. The classic route to Mardi Himal generally costs USD 550.
Short Route
Another popular route to Mardi Himal begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to either Siding Village or Landruk, accessible by jeep. The trek then passes through High Camp and Mardi Base Camp and returns via Kande or Dhampus. The trek takes 4-5 days to complete. The short route to Mardi Himal generally costs USD 400.
Here are the transportation options for 9 day Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek:Â
To Pokhara
Reaching Pokhara marks the beginning of the journey to any trek in the Annapurna region, including for Mardi Himal. Local bus, private jeep or vehicle, and flight are two options to get to Pokhara. Generally, a tourist bus to Pokhara costs USD 10-20, and a private jeep costs USD 150-180. Likewise, domestic flights charge USD 100-120 one way.
To Kande
From Pokhara, travelers must reach Kande to begin a trekking expedition on a classic trek. However, the destination varies on the chosen route. Local buses and private vehicles are two options for getting to Kande from Pokhara. While the local bus costs USD 2-5, a private jeep costs USD 20-30.
What to Expect Each Day on the Trek
Getting involved in the same task daily for a week or more is monotonous, but not when you are on your trekking journey. On the trip to Mardi Himal, you’ll get involved in almost the same task daily, but the trek passes through varied terrain, and the scenery will change dramatically each day.
The typical day in Mardi Himal involves waking up early by 6:00 AM, enjoying a warm breakfast, and beginning trekking by 7:00-8:00 AM. The trek starts early morning due to the ideal and clear weather with stunning mountain views. Trekkers take lunch at a teahouse along the trail at the midday. The lunch break lasts about an hour, and the trek continues toward the day’s destination. Trekkers reach their destination by mid to late afternoon. After checking in at the hotel, trekkers relax, explore the surroundings, enjoy an early dinner, and sleep peacefully.
Trekkers walk around 4-5 hours daily, except on the base camp reaching day. Yet, the walking hours depend on the pace and elevation gain. The day-to-day activities involve hiking through varied terrain, from lush forests and rhododendron groves to rocky ascents of high altitude. Trekkers may spot Himalayan wildlife and experience Gurung and Magar culture daily.
How to Prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek
Proper preparation is vital to succeeding on the trek to Mardi Himal. Thus, here is a guide to help you get ready for the trek to complete it smoothly:
Physical Preparation
Although the Mardi Himal Trek is easy to moderate, being physically prepared and fit is essential to complete it smoothly. Prepare yourself by engaging in cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, and swimming at least 6-8 weeks before beginning your trek. Likewise, focus on building core strength and leg muscles by squatting, lunging, and planking.
Acclimatization
Although the trek to Mardi Base Camp doesn’t reach extreme altitude, acclimatization is still essential. Acclimatization helps you adjust to changed temperatures and environments and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. Including acclimatization days on the Mardi Himal trek is generally unnecessary, but if you prefer, Glorious Himalaya is okay with customizing your itinerary, including the day. Moreover, gradual ascent and proper hydration help you acclimatize during the trek.
Mental Preparedness
Mental preparedness is equally important as physical preparedness. For mental preparedness, stay positive, as it helps you push through tough sections. Stay prepared that the trek will not be easy, and you have to navigate the challenges no matter what. Also, focus on enjoying the scenery rather than rushing through. Moreover, whenever you feel like you can’t do it anymore, think about the sense of accomplishment and scenery after reaching your final destination, as it will motivate you to complete the trek smoothly.
Pack Right
To ensure comfort and safety throughout the trek, packing right is crucial. Overpacking and underpacking can cause trouble during the trek; thus, pack wisely to avoid problems and complete them smoothly. Moreover, all essential gear and equipment should be packed to fit every weather, as the weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable.
Mardi Himal Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Route
- The Mardi Himal Trek route starts from Kande, passes through Pritam Deurali, Low Camp, and High Camp villages, and reaches Mardi Himal Base Camp. It also passes through forests and ridges to alpine meadows.
- The Annapurna Base Camp Trek route begins from Nayapul and passes through the villages of Tikhehdunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Bamboo, and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching ABC. The trail passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and glacial valleys.
Terrains
- The Mardi Himal Trek features narrow ridges, dense forests, and steep ascents with a view of Mount Macchapuchhre and Mardi Himal.
- The Annapurna Base Camp Trek features mixed terrain with gradual ascents, forests, waterfalls, and open valleys surrounded by the Annapurna massif.
Duration
- Mardi Himal Trek takes 5-7 days to complete, depending on the starting point, pace of trekkers, and need for acclimatization.
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek takes 7-10 days, depending on the itinerary, starting point, pace, and acclimatization needs.
Cost
- The Mardi Himal Trek Cost ranges from USD 550-700, depending on factors like the group size, itinerary, and preferred luxury level. Due to its short duration, its cost is lower than ABC’s.
- The cost of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek ranges from USD 599 to USD 850, depending on the type of itinerary, level of preferred service, size of the group, and preferred luxury. Due to its length, it is more expensive than Mardi Himal.
Difficulty Level
- The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek’s difficulty level is moderate. It has shorter daily hikes and shorter durations, but it does have some steep ascents.
- The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is moderate to strenuous, with longer trekking hours, high altitude challenges, and a longer duration.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek vs Mardi Himal Trek
|         Feature |   Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek |      Mardi Himal Trek |
| Location | Annapurna region, near Pokhara | Annapurna region, near Macchapuchhre Base Camp |
| Maximum Elevation | 3,210m at Poon Hill | 4,500m at Mardi Himal Base Camp |
| Duration | 3-5 days | 5-7 days |
| Trek Highlights | Sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges | Snow-covered peaks of the Macchapuchhre and Annapurna ranges |
| Trail Type | Well-established and popular | Adventure and less crowded |
| Risk of Altitude Sickness | Low | Moderate |
| Key attractions | Rhododendron forests, cultural villages, viewpoint of Poon Hill | Remote trails, untouched nature, Mardi Himal Base Camp |
Perfect Timing for Mardi Himal Trek
The trek to Mardi Himal is possible throughout the year, yet Spring and Autumn are the best trekking seasons. Glorious Himalaya can arrange a trip to Mardi Himal to begin trekking on any date during the trekking season. The seasons offer favorable weather conditions, making the journey possible throughout the time. Likewise, the winter season is ideal for a Mardi trek on snowy land.
Spring from March to May is a pre-monsoon season, and Autumn from September to November is a post-monsoon season. Both times offer ideal conditions for trekking with pleasant and stable weather. The sky is clear and provides a crystal-clear view of snow-capped peaks. Moreover, the Mardi Himal Trek route is full of rhododendron blossoms during Spring, making the trail stunning and colorful.
Furthermore, a hike to Mardi Winter from December to February is possible. However, the snow around the ground makes the trek an extra challenge. Still, if you prefer snow and want to experience snowfall, consider choosing the Winter season. Yet, avoid trekking in the Summer season, which spans from June to August, as it is also a monsoon season, bringing heavy rainfall and making the trek challenging.
Why is the Mardi Himal Trek famous?
Mardi Himal Trek is famous for offering a surreal view of Nepal’s Annapurna region in a short duration without worrying about challenges. The trek is one of the easiest journeys in Nepal’s Himalayas, making it suitable for beginners. Its easy nature makes it family-friendly and increases its popularity. The trek offers astonishing close-up views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchali, and Mardi Himal. It also offers a less-crowded alternative to other popular routes in Annapurna.
Furthermore, the Mardi Himal Trek has a lower crowd due to its off-beaten path, offering a tranquil trekking experience; this feature also makes the trek famous among trekkers seeking a peaceful experience. Likewise, the shorter duration, less risk of altitude sickness, and eye-appealing views of sunrise and sunset make the Mardi Himal famous.
Outstanding View of Mt. Machhapuchhre
One of the iconic highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek is the outstanding view of Mount Macchapuchhre (6,993m), also known as Fishtail Mountain. The mountain is significant in Nepalese culture and geography as it is considered sacred. Due to its sacredness, climbing to its summit is prohibited.
From the beginning of the trek, the outstanding sight of Macchapuchhre accompanies you, motivating you to proceed further. As trekkers ascend towards Low Camp and High Camp, the view becomes more astonishing. The most stunning view awaits at Mardi Himal Base Camp. From the base camp, Mount Machhapuchhre is in its close majesty. Moreover, if you plan a journey to Mount Macchapuchhre, get ready to be enhanced by the eye-catching sight of an iconic peak, Machhpuchhre.
Do I need a guide & porter for this trek?
Hiring a guide and porter depends on the trekker’s preference and experience. Although the trek to Mardi Himal is quite easy and requires no guide and porter service, having one can significantly enhance your trekking experience. However, hiring a guide and porter is helpful if you are a first-time trekker and need someone to carry your load and let you fully enjoy the journey.
A professional guide will help you navigate the trails of Mardi Himal as it is less traveled, and you may get lost. Likewise, they ensure your safety in case of any unexpected situations. Furthermore, a porter can carry your heavy loads and help you hike on a steep ascents section. Still, doing the Mardi Himal Trek without a guide and porter is possible, but hiring them is highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience.
How to Securely Book Your Mardi Himal Trek?
Look nowhere to book your Mardi Himal Trek securely; book with Glorious Himalayas, as we are reliable, experienced, and trusted by many trekkers worldwide. We provide an easy booking process online or by direct contact for your quick assistance. You only need to pick up your phone and message us, and we’ll manage everything on your behalf.
We have an experienced guide and porter for your stress-free and enjoyable journey. Likewise, we have no hidden charges, making everything clear. Further, booking with us means you are a part of our team. You’ll come with us as a trekker but go as a family. Many trekkers recommend us for our top-notch service. Most importantly, we offer flexible itineraries that match your fitness levels and needs.
What to Pack for Mardi Himal Trek
Packing right and light is essential for trekking in Mardi Himal. Thus, here is a comprehensive Mardi Himal Trek packing list:
Bodywear
- Moisture-wicking tops and bottom
- Lightweight, quick-drying trekking shirts
- Fleece Jacket
- Down Jacket
- Trekking Pants
- Rainproof and waterproof jacket
Headwear
- Sun Hat or cap
- Warm hat or beanie
- Scarf
- Sunglasses
Handwear
- Lightweight gloves
- Insulated gloves
Footwear
- Trekking Boot
- Moisture-wicking socks
Backpack
- Daypack
- Duffle Bag
Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping Bag
Trekking Equipment
- Trekking Poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottle with water purification tablet
Personal Items
- First Aid kit
- Toiletries
- Towel
- Snacks
Miscellaneous
- Map
- Camera
- Power bank
- Nepalese cash
- Notebook and pen
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