Mardi Himal Trek

7 Days

15 - 20 KM Per Day

Teahouse

Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu

Min 1 to Max 10 Pax in a group

by tourist bus

Highlights

Explore the off-the-beaten-path routes of the Annapurna region, which are still relatively unknown and less crowded.
Enjoy spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and other majestic peaks.
Walk through vibrant rhododendron groves in full bloom, especially during the spring months (March-April).
Engage with local communities, experience their daily lifestyle, and enjoy the warm hospitality of traditional Nepali villages.
Capture picture-perfect views from Low Camp, High Camp, and Base Camp, with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the mountains.

Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek is an exhilarating and challenging trekking route in Nepal’s Annapurna region that is quickly becoming a favorite among adventure seekers. Located just east of the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, this trek takes you to the base of the iconic Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), offering a serene and immersive hiking experience through charming villages, lush green forests, and breathtaking landscapes. The trek also provides stunning views of the massive Annapurna ranges, showcasing the natural beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas.

The Mardi Himal Budget Trek is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Nepal’s majestic Himalayas. This trek takes you through dense alpine forests, peaceful waterfalls, and rugged hilly terrain, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu mountain ranges. Despite its affordability, this trek provides an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Trekkers can visit remote ethnic settlements, largely untouched by modern life, and gain insight into traditional Nepali culture.

Mardi Himal Budget Trek Difficulty

The Mardi Himal Budget Trek is a moderately challenging trek that is accessible to beginners. The lower sections of the trail are covered in lush greenery, while the upper parts feature more rugged and rocky terrain. The most challenging section is the trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp, where the trail becomes steeper and more demanding. However, with basic preparation and cardio training, this trek is manageable and rewarding, offering a comfortable and enjoyable experience for most trekkers.

Permits

To trek in the Mardi Himal region, which is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, trekkers must obtain two essential permits:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (~USD 30) per person for foreigners, NPR 1,000 (~USD 10) per person for SAARC nationals.

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card: NPR 2,000 (~USD 20) per person for foreigners, NPR 600 (~USD 6) per person for SAARC nationals.

These permit fees are included in the trek package, so you don’t have to worry about additional costs.

Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal

The Mardi Himal Trek can be undertaken throughout the year, but the best seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these periods, the weather is stable, offering clear skies and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. The temperatures are also moderate, making it an ideal time for trekking.

Spring (March-May): Enjoy the blooming rhododendron forests and vibrant natural scenery.

Autumn (September-November): Experience clear skies and crisp weather, perfect for capturing the beauty of the Himalayas.

If you prefer a quieter trekking experience, consider trekking during the monsoon (June-August) or winter (December-February) seasons. However, be prepared for rainy, muddy trails during the monsoon, and cold, snowy conditions during the winter. While these seasons present challenges, they also offer unique and stunning views of the Annapurna region.

Why Choose the Mardi Himal Budget Trek?

The Mardi Himal Budget Trek is perfect for those looking for an affordable trekking experience without compromising on the adventure or scenic beauty. This trek provides a perfect blend of natural splendor, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. Our package includes all necessary logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your journey through one of Nepal’s most beautiful regions.

Itinerary

If you want tailor-made trip or want to personalize this itinerary, just feel free to contact us. We are always there to help you to make your holiday plan. Contact us

Day 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (850m) - Duration: 6-7 hours

Your adventure begins with a scenic 6 to 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to the beautiful Pokhara Valley, home to the stunning Phewa Tal (lake). After checking in at your hotel near the lake, you can explore the vibrant Lakeside area, where you'll find plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants. (Option: You can also opt for a 30-minute scenic flight to Pokhara.)

Day 2

Trek to Dhampus (Drive from Pokhara to Phedi and (1,600m) - Duration: 3-4 hours

A 30-minute drive takes you from Pokhara to Phedi, the starting point of your trek. From here, you'll ascend stone steps toward Dhampus, which sits about 500 meters higher on the ridge. Dhampus is a village primarily inhabited by Brahmin, Chhetri, and Gurung communities. Upon arrival, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Annapurna Ranges. You'll spend the night in Dhampus.

Day 3

Trek from Dhampus to Forest Camp (2,480m) - Duration: 6-7 hours

Today's trek leads you through a variety of flora, including rhododendron, birch, mountain oak, maple, hemlock, and daphnia shrubs (also known as the paper plant due to their red and white flowers). The peaceful overnight stay at Forest Camp offers a cool and serene environment, surrounded by nature.

Day 4

Trek from Forest Camp to Mardi Himal Low Camp (3,150m) - Duration: 4-5 hours

As you ascend today, you'll notice a shift in the vegetation, with the trees now covered in moss, lichen, and orchids. The cooler climate and jungle-like atmosphere make for an enchanting trek. Through occasional clearings in the trees, you'll catch glimpses of the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and the Annapurna Ranges.

Day 5

Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (4,100m) - Duration: 5-6 hours

An early start today brings you to the highest point of the trek, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude. The towering peaks seem close enough to touch, with the massive face of Mardi Himal (5,587m) dominating the skyline. You'll spend the day trekking higher to fully appreciate the scale of these majestic mountains before returning to High Camp for the evening.

Day 6

Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) & Trek Back to Low Camp (3,150m) - Duration:

After witnessing a stunning sunrise and enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), passing by a viewpoint that offers incredible snow-covered mountain vistas. The trail leads through cool forests and terraced farmlands, and the descent of nearly 1,400 meters is less physically demanding. You'll spend the night at Low Camp.

Day 7

Trek to Siding Village (1,280m) & Drive to Pokhara (850m) - Duration: 6-7 hours

Today’s trek is mostly downhill as you descend nearly 1,800 meters to Siding Village, a place known for its traditional honey-hunters who scale cliff faces to collect honey from wild bee hives. The trail follows the banks of the Mardi Khola (river) and crosses several suspension bridges. The lush landscape is fertile and supports the local farming communities. After reaching Siding Village, you'll drive back to Pokhara in time for lunch. Upon returning to Pokhara, you may wish to visit Mahendra Cave (a 152-meter limestone cave) and David’s Fall, or simply relax by the lakeside with a drink.

Inclusions

What's included

Airport transfer
2 Nights Boutique Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
2 nights hotel in Pokhara with breakfast
Teahouse accommodation during the trek
3 times meals during the trek (breakfast, lunches and dinners)
Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu drive by Tourist Bus
Pokhara to Phedi by Taxi
Hot beverages, three cups of tea/coffee per day.
Seasonal fruits during the trek
A professional guide
Trekking Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area entry fee and TIMs card
First aid medical kit
Farewell dinner after the trek
All taxes and paper works

Add-ons

What's not included

Nepal visa fee and your Travel insurance
Porter
All the bar bills and personal expenses (phone call, laundry service, battery recharge, a bottle of water, hot water, shower big pot of tea or coffee.
Tips for trekking stuffs will appreciated.