Mardi Himal 7 days Trek

This cost generally includes trekking permits, transportation, accommodation, food, and the services of a guide and porter. Additional costs that may not be included in the package are international airfare, visa fees, travel insurance, tips for trekking staff, personal expenses like snacks, drinks, phone calls, laundry, and hot showers during the trek, and any additional expenses incurred due to unforeseen events.

It’s important to carefully review the services included in the package before booking the trek and to choose a reputable trekking agency that offers good value for money.

Mardi Himal Trek independently:

Yes, it is possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek independently, but it requires careful planning, preparation, and a good level of hiking experience. The trail is well-marked, and there are tea houses and lodges along the way where you can find food and accommodation.

To do the trek independently, you need to obtain the necessary permits, which can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You also need to arrange your own transportation to the trailhead and be responsible for your own safety and well-being.

However, it’s worth noting that having a guide or porter can be beneficial as they can provide valuable insight into the local culture and customs, offer assistance in case of emergencies, and help with navigation and logistics. Additionally, hiring a guide or porter can also contribute to the local economy and support the local community.

If you decide to do the trek independently, it’s important to research the trail, be well-prepared, and have the necessary equipment, including a good-quality map, a reliable GPS device, and appropriate hiking gear. It’s also important to check weather conditions and trail conditions before setting off on the trek.

Mardi Himal Trek duration:

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively short trek in Nepal, which can be completed in about 5 to 7 days depending on the route and pace of the trekker.

The standard route for the Mardi Himal Trek is usually a circular route that starts and ends in Pokhara. The trek begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, followed by a trek through beautiful forests and picturesque villages, reaching the high-altitude Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) and then descending back to Pokhara.

The trek can be customized to suit your preferences and fitness level. Some trekkers prefer to take a longer route that includes detours and side trips, while others may choose to complete the trek in a shorter time. It’s always best to plan and prepare accordingly, considering factors such as weather conditions, altitude sickness, and physical fitness.

Highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek:

The highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. From this point, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal itself.

Although the trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp is not as challenging as some of the other treks in Nepal, it still involves ascending to high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness in some trekkers. It’s essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow the guidance of experienced guides to avoid any health risks.

Average altitude of the Mardi Himal Trek:

The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate-level trek in Nepal that takes trekkers through a range of altitudes. The average altitude of the Mardi Himal Trek is around 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level.

During the trek, trekkers gradually ascend from lower elevations, such as Pokhara, to higher altitudes, reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. Along the way, they pass through beautiful forests, villages, and alpine meadows, with stunning views of the Himalayas.

As with any trek that involves high altitudes, it’s crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow the guidance of experienced guides to avoid any health risks. Trekkers should also be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take appropriate measures to prevent and treat it.

Tea Houses and Lodges in Mardi Himal Trek:

Yes, there are several tea houses and lodges available on the Mardi Himal Trek. The trek passes through several villages and settlements, including Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and Siding Village, where trekkers can find basic accommodation and meals.

The tea houses and lodges on the Mardi Himal Trek are relatively simple and offer basic facilities such as twin or double-sharing rooms with common washrooms, hot showers (at an additional cost), and traditional Nepali meals. The tea houses are owned and run by local families, which provides an opportunity for trekkers to experience the local culture and hospitality.

It’s essential to note that during peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), the tea houses can get busy and may require advance booking. Therefore, it’s always advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

Best route to take for the Mardi Himal Trek:

Starting from Kande, the trek passes through the charming village of Pothana before reaching the forested trail to Deurali. From Deurali, the trail climbs through the forest to reach Forest Camp and then continues to Low Camp and Rest Camp, where trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

From Rest Camp, the trail ascends steeply to High Camp, which is the base for the final ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek back to Siding Village follows a different trail, passing through beautiful forests and traditional villages, with an option to visit the hot springs at Jhinu Danda before reaching Pokhara.

Overall, this route provides a well-paced and scenic trekking experience, with a good mix of cultural and natural attractions, and is highly recommended for trekkers of all levels.

Highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek:

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Some of the highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek are:

• Stunning mountain views: The trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and other snow-capped peaks.
• Less crowded: The Mardi Himal Trek is a less crowded trekking route compared to other popular treks in the Annapurna region, which provides a more peaceful and authentic trekking experience.
• Cultural diversity: The trek takes you through traditional Gurung villages where you can learn about their unique culture and lifestyle.
• Forests and wildlife: The trail passes through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees and is home to various wildlife such as Himalayan Thar, musk deer, and various bird species.
• Off-the-beaten-path: The trek is an off-the-beaten-path route, which offers a unique and adventurous experience for those seeking a less crowded and more challenging trek.
• Tea Houses: There are plenty of tea houses along the trail providing basic accommodation, food, and drinks, making it an accessible trek for all levels of trekkers.
• The High Camp: The Mardi Himal High Camp is the highest point of the trek at an altitude of 4,500 meters, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek is a great option for those looking for a challenging yet less crowded trekking route with stunning mountain views and cultural diversity.

Mardi Himal Trekking weather:

The weather on the Mardi Himal Trek depends on the season in which you undertake the trek. Here is a brief overview of the weather conditions during different seasons:

Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to undertake the Mardi Himal Trek as the weather is generally clear with mild temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night. The days are longer, and the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, making for a beautiful trekking experience.

Summer (June to August): The summer months in Nepal are characterized by hot and humid weather, and the Mardi Himal Trek is no exception. The trails can be muddy and slippery due to monsoon rains, which can make trekking challenging. However, the views of the lush green landscape are stunning.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, and the Mardi Himal Trek is no exception. The weather is dry and clear with mild temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night. The skies are generally clear, offering spectacular mountain views.

Winter (December to February): Winter is a less popular season for trekking in Nepal due to the cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, the weather is generally clear with stunning views of snow-capped mountains. The trails can be slippery due to snow and ice, making trekking more challenging.

Overall, the best time to undertake the Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the views are spectacular.

Trekking Gears:

Packing the right clothing and gear for the Mardi Himal Trek is crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience. Here are some essential items you should consider packing for the trek:

Trekking boots: A comfortable and sturdy pair of trekking boots with good ankle support are essential for the Mardi Himal Trek.

Warm clothing: Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, so it’s important to bring warm clothing such as a down jacket, fleece jacket, thermal base layers, and warm pants.

Rain gear: The Mardi Himal Trek is prone to rainfall, so a good quality rain jacket and rain pants are essential.

Hat and gloves: A warm hat and gloves are essential to keep you warm during colder weather conditions.

Daypack: A comfortable and lightweight daypack to carry your water bottle, camera, snacks, and other essential items.

Sleeping bag: A good quality sleeping bag rated for temperatures below freezing is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep at higher elevations.

Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help provide stability and reduce the strain on your knees and ankles.

Water purification tablets or a water filter: Clean drinking water is essential during the trek, and a water purification system can help ensure safe drinking water.

First-aid kit: A small first-aid kit with essential medicines, bandages, and antiseptic creams can come in handy in case of any injuries.

Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun’s UV rays can be intense at higher elevations, so sunglasses and sunscreen with high SPF are essential.

Make sure to pack light and only bring essential items to avoid carrying unnecessary weight

Required Permits and Visa:

Yes, there are special permits and visas required for the Mardi Himal Trek. Here are the details:

TIMS Card: The Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card is required for all trekkers in the Annapurna region, including the Mardi Himal Trek. It can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN).

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The ACAP is required for all trekkers in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Mardi Himal Trek. The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or the ACAP counter in Besisahar.

Nepal Visa: All foreign nationals require a Nepal visa to enter Nepal, which can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at the border entry points.

It is recommended to check with your local Nepalese embassy or consulate for the latest information on visa requirements and application procedures. It is also advisable to obtain necessary permits and visas through a licensed trekking agency to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Phone Signal:

Yes, there is cellular service available on the Mardi Himal Trek, but it can be limited and intermittent in some areas.

Most of the major cellular service providers in Nepal, such as Ncell and Nepal Telecom, offer network coverage along the Mardi Himal Trek. However, the quality of the network may vary depending on your location and the terrain.

In some remote areas, the network coverage may be weak or unavailable. It is advisable to carry a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergency purposes, especially if you are trekking solo or in a small group.

It is also important to note that using cellular data or making phone calls can be expensive in Nepal, especially in remote areas. It is advisable to check with your service provider about international roaming rates or purchase a local SIM card with a data plan before starting the trek.

Alternative Routes:

Yes, there are several alternatives to the Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region. Here are some of them:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular alternative to the Mardi Himal Trek, which takes you to the base of the majestic Annapurna massif. The trek passes through diverse landscapes, including rice paddies, forests, and glaciers, and offers stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a relatively short and easy trek that offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek takes you through charming villages, rhododendron forests, and terraced fields, and culminates with a sunrise view from Poon Hill.

Upper Mustang Trek: The Upper Mustang Trek is a remote and challenging trek that takes you through the former Kingdom of Lo in the Mustang region. The trek offers a unique cultural and historical experience, as you pass through ancient villages, monasteries, and caves, and witness the unique Tibetan-Buddhist culture.

Tilicho Lake Trek: The Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging trek that takes you to the highest lake in the world, located at an altitude of 4,919 meters. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, high passes, and barren valleys.

Jomsom Muktinath Trek: The Jomsom Muktinath Trek is a classic trek that takes you through the Kali Gandaki valley, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and takes you to the holy site of Muktinath, a major pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

All of these treks offer unique experiences and stunning views of the Annapurna region.