Mardi Himal Trek

Major Highlights Overview The Mardi Himal Trek and Mardi Himal Base Camp is one of the best and shortest treks that will offer us the perfect mix of culture, adventure, […]

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7 Days
15 - 20 KM Per Day
Tea house
Start from Kathmandu and End to Kathmandu
Min 1 to Max 15 Pax in a group
by tourist bus
easy

Overview

Major Highlights

  • Get the closer and breathtaking views of the Annapurna region peaks, including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.
  • Set the feet on the base of Mardi Himal Trek,marking an achievement of soft adventure and high rewards.
  • Revel in the lively spring trails, bursting with blooming rhododendrons and a rich array of flora and fauna.
  • Cultural Immersion through the homestays, warm hospitality, and local festivals, if the time aligns.
  • Take a step in a serene and moderate trekking experience compared to the busy Annapurna routes.
  • Ideal trek for beginners and tourists with a shorter time period to get the maximum rewards.
  • A complete journey from the subtropical forests to the Himalayan ridges, a formidable experience of rewards.

Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek and Mardi Himal Base Camp is one of the best and shortest treks that will offer us the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and an unmatched scenario of the Himalayas from a closer perspective. This trekking route is located in the Annapurna region and is less crowded as compared to the other Annapurna ranges. This off-beaten path will take us to the base camp of the majestic Mardi Himal Trek. The route will offer us the far and closer perspectives of the peaks like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Dhaulagiri. This trek will be a peaceful route that makes it ideal for trekkers seeking peace and solitude with the majestic views. Hikers Himalaya has crafted this itinerary for such trekkers to get the rewards in just 6 days.

Our trek will begin with the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, where we will get the scenic and windy highway views along the riverbed of the Trishuli and Seti rivers. The village and semi-urban life of Nepal will be on full display during the drive. Once we reach Pokhara, we will have a lovely evening in the lakeside before we embark on our trek. We will officially start the trek from Kande as we step on the stone stairs with the beginning views of the Himalayas nearby. The highlight of the trek is reaching the Mardi Himal Base camp trek, where we will explore the sunrise view when the sun paints the Himalayan giants in golden colours.

This trek, despite being one of the shortest in Nepal, offers the thrill of high-altitude adventure, even demanding extreme endurance. With friendly environments and authentic local hospitality, this trek provides unparalleled mountain vistas throughout the trek. This trek is a perfect embarkation for beginners and trekkers of all age groups, including the kids.

Hikers Himalaya invites everyone who is into the solitary experience of the mountains of western Nepal with expert guides, personalized services, and well-crafted itineraries to ensure the best experience throughout the trek. We will provide the best offers and services for this incredible adventure to the lap of the Himalayas in a most trekker-friendly environment.

Major Attractions

1. Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m)

Mardi Himal Base Camp is the major and ultimate highlight of the trek. The base camp offers incredible vantage points of the Annapurna region, rewarding trekkers with a golden sunrise panorama of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. The sunrise view will especially be breathtaking as the first rays of light illuminate the Himalayan giants in golden and pink hues. We will reach the base camp that provides us with a sense of achievement and rewards of the unforgettable memories of authentic and pristine Himalayan beauty.

2. Close-Up Views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain)

Only a few treks will bring us so close to the iconic Machhapuchhre(Fishtail) peak. The peak that the locals often revere. We will get to enjoy the best of Machhapuchhre views along the ridgeline on a clear day from High Camp. The sheer beauty of the sharp peak will dominate our backdrop as a constant companion throughout the trek. These ever-changing angles will glow red at the sunrise, and the shimmering gleam under the moonlight will have the perfect views all around and making this a photographer’s dream. The spiritual and natural significance of this trek will add more value to the Mardi Himal trek experience.

3. Rhododendron and Alpine forests

The lower section of the Mardi Himal route will take us through the dense rhododendron and oak forests that will enhance the experience of the high Himalayas under the blooming blanket of rhododendrons and other wildflowers. The forests are home to a diverse set of bird species. This Mardi Himal Trek will be peaceful and alive with the pristine sound of nature. With the rising altitude, the trail will transition into the alpine meadows and rugged landscapes. This will contrast the ecosystems that offer the trekkers a chance to witness the diversity of landscapes in a full circle.

4. Gurung and Magar Villages.

The Mardi Himal Trek showcases the vibrant cultural heritage of the Gurung and Magar communities. The villages like Siding and Landruk are the prime examples of the cultural and traditional views of this landmark. This trek offers a unique opportunity to visit traditional Gurung and Magar villages. The rustic houses, terraced fields, and centuries-old customs bloom to showcase the traditional and cultural values. The hospitality of the locals and their connection to the mountain will make the journey more than just an adventure. The experience will blend with the meaningful cultural experience as well.

5. Peaceful & Less-Crowded Trails

The Mardi Himal Trek offers a quieter, more serene experience compared to the bustling Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Everest Base Camp trek. The quiet trails will allow the trekkers to connect deeply with nature and be free from the hustle of the large trekking groups. This serene setting will make it ideal for people who seek solitude and a meditative journey on the lap of the Himalayas. The remote setting, combined with the stunning landscapes, will ensure that we have a personal and rewarding adventure away from the crowded tourist trails.

6. Pokhara – Gateway to the Annapurnas

The Mardi Himal Trek Journey will begin from Pokhara. In fact, the majority of Annapurna region activities begin from Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside city that provides beautiful scenery and tourism activities. Pokhara is a designated Tourism capital in Nepal. Visitors can enjoy the lakeside stroll, boat rides in Phewa Lake, and explore the nearby caves and temples, along with the waterfall known as ‘Davis Falls’. Pokhara is both the starting and ending point of the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, which provides us a refreshing start and finale to this wonderfully rewarding trek.

Why choose this trek

  • Unbeatable Mountain Views: We will be rewarded by the close-up panoramas of many peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchre, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal within our 6 days of trekking.
  • Short Yet Rewarding: This is a complete Himalayan trekking adventure just in about a week. This trek is perfect for everyone who has a limited time.
  • Less-Crowded & Peaceful Trails: The trails will be less crowded than those compared to Everest and Annapurna Base Camp. Mardi Himal Base Camp offers a serene and secluded trekking experience.
  • Authentic Cultural Encounters: We will get to experience the warmth of the traditions of the Gurung and Magar Villages with the local teahouse hospitality.
  • Diverse Landscapes in One Trek: We will traverse the journey from green, lush forests to the alpine meadows and high ridges that lead us to the spectacular base camp views.

Travelling with Hikers Himalaya

Hikers Himalaya is a trusted and experienced trekking company that is dedicated to providing unrivaled support and enriching Himalayan adventures. With our passionate team of expert guides and staff, we ensure every trek is well-organized, culturally immersive, and tailored to trekkers’ pace and comfort. We help with attention to detail and a strong focus on safety that makes our journey both meaningful and memorable. Hikers Himalaya is always ready to serve, whether you are a group or a solo traveller, with the logistics and making your Himalayan dreams come true. Joining Hikers Himalaya means joining a supportive community to complete every part of the journey like a family.or you can contact us either mail or whatsapp +9779742499496

Permits Required

Permits and Costs for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

PermitCost for Non-SAARC ForeignersCost for SAARC NationalsCost for Nepalese
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)NPR 3,000 (≈ USD 22.50)NPR 1,000 (≈ USD 7.50)NPR 100 (≈ USD 0.75)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS)NPR 2,000 (≈ USD 15)NPR 1,000 (≈ USD 7.50)Not required

All the costs must be paid in NPR

Hikers Himalaya will obtain and provide the permits on your behalf.

Best time to trek

(completed)

Spring (March to May)

Spring season is one of the most favourable and best time to do Mardi Himal Trek in Annapurna region Nepal . This is a season when the entire trail will come alive with the vibrant colours and fresh mountain air. These forests bloom with vivid wildflowers like rhododendron, magnolias, etc. The flowers bloom and create an excellent aroma and magical atmosphere. The days are pleasantly warm, and the trails will be dry as well. Scattered clouds and occasional passing showers are expected in the month of June. This season overall is perfect for people seeking the most picturesque moments with snowcapped Himalayan backdrops. The trail is moderately busy with a peaceful vibe.

 Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the most popular and trekker-friendly season in Nepal. This season is also ideal for the Mardi Himal Trek. After the monsoon ends, the skies will clear up and leave behind crisp air and stunning visibility of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The weather will be stable with the warmer days and cold nights. However, the equal days and nights will be pleasant. The clear nights are a bonus for the magical mountain and star views from High Camp. The trails will be more vibrant as the major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar approach this season. Autumn overall provides the safest and most enjoyable trekking conditions, along with the vibrant cultural immersion.

Difficulty of this trek

The Mardi Himal Base camp Trek is among the moderate treks. This trek is suitable for those with a basic level of fitness and fit trekkers of all age groups, including the kids. The trail will involve daily trekking of 5-7 hours on the varied trail. We will traverse past the stone steps, under the windy forest, and over the alpine meadows. This trek has friendly trails with most sections being well-paved. The ascent from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp may feel a bit steep for an hour or so, but overall, the trek is suitable for all trekking groups. However, trekkers need to have a good level of fitness and determination to complete the trek. This trek is achievable and rewarding as it will offer a considerable amount of breathtaking views without causing much difficulty.

Cultural Immersion

The Mardi Himal Base camp trek offers us deep cultural interactions with the Gurung and Magar communities. The locals are well-known for their warm hospitality and traditional stone houses with terraced farming practices in the lower regions of the trail. Trekkers will witness the locals practicing their age-old traditions like dances, folk songs, and some Buddhist practices such as prayer flags and mani walls. The major festivals in the region are Ghode Jatra and Buddha Jayanti. The festivals of Dashain and Tihar bring vibrant celebrations to the settlements, honoring revered gods with family and community gatherings. The community blends its culture and its traditions with the natural landscapes.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is always an essential commodity for the treks and trips abroad. Travel insurance ensures safety and peace of mind throughout your journey. Even though the trek to Mardi Himal base camp trek is relatively short and moderate, having travel insurance is a benefit as it provides the relative security to the trekker against unpredictable events. A comprehensive insurance is necessary that provides the security against high-altitude trekking, and emergency medical care with the helicopter evacuation is a must while travelling to Nepal. Travel insurance always secures the unpredictable financial losses, so having this is a benefit. Hikers Himalaya strongly recommends securing travel insurance for its essential benefits.


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 by tourist bus (822m, 7/8 hrs)

Duration 7/8 hours
Distance 202km
Altitude 840m
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Our adventure starts with a picturesque and long drive from Kathmandu. We will pass along the winding roads beside the rivers of Trishuli and Marsyangdi. This ride will offer us glimpses of green hills, terraced fields, and the rural life of Nepal with the towering mountains as our backdrop. After arriving in Pokhara, we will check into our hotel, get refreshed, and spend the evening around the lake of Phewa. Phewa Lakeside boasts a lively mix of restaurants, cafes, clubs, and colourful shops.
Day 2

Drive to Kande (1,770m) & Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m, 6–7 hrs)

Duration 6/7hours
Distance 14.5km
Altitude 2600m
Accommodation Tea house
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After having an early morning breakfast, we will board a drive for about an hour to Kande. The trek’s major starting point is Kande. We will also enter the lush and tranquil rhododendron and oak forest along the way. The trail climbs gently through terraced fields and charming traditional villages. This peaceful path will offer the shade of cool air, making the climb pleasant. You will get past the ridges with getting the first glimpse of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhere before we continue deeper into the woodland trails. We will reach Forest Camp for an overnight stay, a tea house point nestled among the alpine forests.
Day 3

Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600m, 6–7 hrs)

Duration 6/7hours
Distance 8.5km
Altitude 3600m
Accommodation Tea house
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today’s trek takes you higher along forested paths before emerging onto open ridges with sweeping mountain panoramas. After a stop for lunch at Low Camp (3,050m), you’ll continue upward with breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre’s sharp peak and Annapurna South shining against the sky. The trail becomes steeper but rewarding as the horizon widens. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at High Camp, perched above the clouds, offering a stunning sunset view over the Annapurna range. Overnight stay in a cozy teahouse.
Day 4

Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) & Return to Low Camp (3,050m, 7–8 hrs)

Duration 11.8km
Distance 7/8 hours
Altitude 4500m
Accommodation Tea house
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today, we will have one of the most exciting days of the trek. We will set out before dawn, gradually towards the Mardi Himal Base Camp. We will follow the ridge that opens up to the incredible mountain views. We will reach the Base Camp as early as we can in the morning to witness the incredible mountain views in the glowing sun. After taking some time for the photographs and soaking in the atmosphere and the scenery, we will descend back along the ridge to Low Camp for our overnight stay.
Day 5

Trek from Low Camp to Siding Village (1,750m, 4 hrs) & Drive to Pokhara 3 hours.

Duration 4 hours
Distance 4 km
Altitude 1750m
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
We will begin our descent through the rhododendron forests and charming settlements. The trail will shift from alpine landscapes to the warmer and greener valleys as we lose altitude. By midday, we will be arriving in Siding village, where the traditional houses and welcoming locals will showcase the cultural richness. The drive from Siding Village will take us to Pokhara. We will check in and refresh in our hotel, and the evening is all ours. We will get ample time to enjoy the local food and stroll by the bank of Phewa Lake.
Day 6

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus (1,350m, hrs)7/8 hours,

Duration 7/8 hours
Distance 202km
Altitude 1,350m
Accommodation Hotel
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
After having breakfast, we will depart for Kathmandu, retracing the same scenic routes along the rivers and terraced fields along the riverbed of the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. The drive will provide us another chance to admire the rural Nepal’s beauty before we reach the busy capital. We will have an evening exploring Thamel’s lively streets, shopping for souvenirs, and exploring food. This will mark the end of our Mardi Himal Base Camp trek with unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Day 7

Departure

Inclusions

What's included

Meals

Food on the Trek

  • Traditional Nepali Meals: We will be served with the local staples like Dal Bhat, Dhindo, and Porridge that serve high nutritional value with unlimited refills.
  • International Options: Menus also include a few international staples like fried noodles, soups, omelets, and potato-based dishes.
  • Hot Drinks: There will be ample availability of Tea, coffee, masala tea, ginger tea, and other hot drinks.
  • Snacks & Extras: We will have enough opportunities to savour the Energy bars, biscuits, and seasonal fruits. However, they will be a bit expensive than in the urban regions.
Dietary Needs: Vegetarian meals are easy to find on the trail. If you have any dietary restrictions, like vegan or gluten-free, they will be arranged if requested in advance.

Accommodation

Accommodation on the Trek

  • Teahouse Lodges: We will have accommodations in simple, family-run teahouses with basic and comfortable accommodation facilities.
  • Rooms: The rooms will mainly be twin sharing with beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. In the colder nights, a sleeping bag is recommended.
  • Shared Facilities: We will have common dining halls, shared toilets, and communal charging points with solar-powered electricity.
  • High Camp Stay: In the High Camp, facilities will be basic with limited facilities due to remoteness and accommodation. Few teahouses do not even have the facility of solar-powered electricity. Warm Hospitality: The locals will provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is often achieved by sharing their stories and cultural insights in a very friendly manner with the trekkers.
 
  • Pickup and drop-off at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu
  • Hotel stays and teahouse/lodge in Kathmandu and major stopovers
  • Full meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek with Cup of Tea or Coffee with each meal
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All the required Trekking Permits and Entry Fees And government papers,
  • Licensed and experienced English-speaking guides and porters and their salaries.
  • Ground transportation by tourist bus to Pokhara and Kathmandu,
  • Basic first aid Kit, carried by the guide
  • Personalized trekking achievement certificate (by request).

Add-ons

    What's not included

    • International flights and Visa Fees.
    • Travel Insurance
    • Personal Expenses during the tour/trek(snacks, hot showers, device charging, etc).
    • Trekking equipment, apart from the personalised ones
    • Tips for the guide and porter
    • Extra Stays outside the part of the itinerary, and additional sightseeing tours in Nepal.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q1. How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
     The trek is moderate and favourable for all beginners and all age groups, including children. No technical climbing is involved, and the trail is mostly paved on this route.

    Q2. How many days are required for this trek?
    The standard itinerary of the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is 6-7 days. This package by Hikers Himalaya will also be a 6-day package. Trekker can always adjust the trekking days to 7 or 8 days, depending on the schedule.

    Q3. What is the maximum altitude reached?
    The highest point of our trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp will be at Mardi Himal Base Camp itself. We will stand on top of 4500m and get the stunning panorama of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.

    Q4. Do I need prior trekking experience?
    There is no need for prior experience required for this trek. Anyone with basic fitness and stamina can complete the trek with proper acclimatization and gradual ascent. This trek is actually designed for beginners,

    Q5. What type of accommodation is available?
     Teahouse lodges with twin-sharing rooms and shared bathrooms with a warm and clean dining hall are available throughout the trail. We will have simple but hospitable facilities at the higher camps.

    Q6. When is the best time to trek Mardi Himal?
     The best seasons are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov) as they provide relatively clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain views.

    Q7. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
    This trek does not possess much risk of altitude sickness, as this is not a high-altitude trek. However, our team will make sure everyone is feeling well after a gradual altitude gain.

    Q8. What permits are required?
    We will need the two major permits for this season. Annapurna

    Travelers' Reviews

    Mardi Himal Trek

    Paul D

    United Kimdom

    Verified Purchase

    Amazing!

    My son and I recently completed a private trek with Hikers Himalaya and Bibek was amazing. He was very patient and flexible, allowing us to adjust the trip as we went to ensure we got the most out of it. His friendly nature and approach to life is infectious and I plan to be back with son #2 very soon!

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