Overview

Mardi Himal Trek

The Annapurna region’s Mardi Himal Trek is a recently discovered excursion. The journey takes you to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,50culminating inculmination of Nepal’s rural communities,
extraordinary scenery, mind-blowing snow-capped mountains, and changing flora and wildlife.

You can see Annapurna South, Mount Machhapuchre, and Mount Hiunchuli up close to the walking path. This journey can be thought of as a substitute for the traditional trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The Mardi Himal Base Camp, on the other hand, is where our walk leads us, and it was made accessible for hiking in 2012.

Trip Facts

Highlights

  • The Mardi Himal Trek offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal, making it a paradise for mountain lovers.
  • This trek is peaceful and less crowded, providing a serene atmosphere ideal for travelers who prefer solitude and natural beauty over busy trekking routes.
  • The trail showcases diverse landscapes, from lush rhododendron forests and terraced farmlands to alpine meadows and rocky mountain ridges.
  • Trekkers can explore rich Gurung culture and traditional mountain villages, experiencing warm hospitality and authentic local lifestyles.
  • The sunrise and sunset views from High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp are truly stunning, with golden rays illuminating the snow-covered Himalayan peaks.

Itinerary

Meet and transport to the hotel when you arrive at the airport. In the afternoon, you can choose an escorted stroll around Thamel and Kathmandu’s local streets. In the evening, there will be a welcome meal with a traditional Nepalese cultural program.

Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Accommodation Standard Hotel
Meal Dinner

After breakfast, begin touring in Kathmandu, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swyambhunath Stupa. The palaces of the medieval Kings who ruled over the Kathmandu Kingdom may be seen in the Kathmandu Durbar Square region. Swayambhu means “the self-existent” and is known as the Monkey Temple by international visitors because of the enormous number of monkeys in this region.

Swayambunath Stupa is supposed to be almost 2,000 years old and to represent wisdom. The painted eyeballs on all four sides represent Buddha’s all-seeing omnipotence. It is a sacred Buddhist site visited by people from all around the world. In the afternoon, you will have a briefing and discussion about your excursion.

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu

Accommodation Standard Hotel
Meal BSD

The Mardi Himal trek begins with an exciting overland drive in a magnificent comfortable coach or in a private car (depending on party size) via several rural settlements and vistas of Himalayan peaks that lead to beautiful Pokhara.

Pokhara, with its picturesque Lake Phewa, is set in the shadow of the massive Annapurna range of mountains. You will be taken to your individual lodgings and can enjoy an evening stroll along the lake.

Accommodation Standard Hotel
Meal BSD

Our journey begins with an exhilarating short drive into the Annapurna mid-hills to reach Kande. It takes about an hour to climb through the cool shade of the forest from here to Thulo-Kharka, also known as Australian Camp, where you can rest and enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Manaslu mountain range, Dhaulagiri, including the magnificent Machhapuchare “Fish Tail” and Mardi Himal, as well as the Annapurna Mountain range. Walk downhill from here to Potana, another hamlet with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks in the heart of alpine woodlands.

Overnight in Potana.

Accommodation Local teahouse lodges
Meal BSD

A morning stroll on the main hiking trail in Deurali takes a few hours and provides excellent views of landscapes and snow-capped peaks. Following Deurali, we will continue along a ridgeline heading north into a calm wooded region where the temperature decreases to cool and invigorating air with wonderful views of Annapurna I and South with Huinchuli to the east, Annapurna IV-II, and Lamjung Himal. We keep walking till we reach a few hikers’ huts in the heart of the forest.

Overnight.

Accommodation Hotel and local teahouse lodges
Meal BSD

A steep ascent goes farther up a track from this wooded section to pastureland for the route of Mardi base camp’s overnight stay, which gives beautiful views of the adjacent mountains and surrounding landscape.

We walked a little way today to give you time to enjoy the breathtaking views before a modest climb brings you to Low Camp for lunch and an overnight stay in the comfort of a pleasant, basic lodge with friendly local hospitality.

Accommodation Local teahouse lodges or Camping
Meal BSD

As you rise gradually to High Camp, the air becomes thinner and colder, with tree lines giving way to short rhododendron and juniper plants. This wonderful location provides a panoramic view of gorgeous landscapes and snow-capped summits in complete peace.

A solitary lodge with minimal amenities and breathtaking views of the Annapurna Himalaya provides as overnight accommodation at High Camp.

Accommodation Teahouse lodges
Meal BSD

A morning hike begins with a climb to the top ridge of the Mardi Himal, the trek’s highest point at 4,500 meters. When early explorer Jimmy Roberts initially visited this region in the early 1970s, he gave the location the moniker “Other Sanctuary.”

The trail next climbs steeply over a ridgeline to a concealed plateau at the base of the Mardi Himal South Face, with towering Mt. Machhapuchare in the background.

After admiring the spectacular mountain scenery, we returned the same route to our overnight spot.

Accommodation Hotel and local teahouse lodges
Meal BSD

The return journey on the same track begins at Jungle Camp and continues with further downhill trekking to Sidang hamlet, which is located between another East and West route to Mardi Himal in the warmer area.

This is our overnight stop before this trek is about to end.

Accommodation Hotel and local teahouse lodges
Meal BSD

Our incredible jouney through the Annapurna region’s hidden routes culminates with our final day’s trek, which follows the Mardi River across a vast valley to communities with milder weather and rice or paddy crops. We take a short trip back to Pokhara from Mardi.

Overnight in Pokhara

Accommodation Standard Hotel
Meal BSD

We’ll take the early morning trip back to Kathmandu. Then, we’ll take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. You can unwind at the hotel or undertake last-minute shopping.

Overnight in hotel.

Accommodation Standard Hotel
Meal BSD

You will depart Nepal with priceless recollections of your wonderful experience during the trek you had. For your departure, our personnel will transport you to the airport.

Included

  • All transfers by private vehicle including pick up and drop to airport
  • Accommodation as per itinerary (3–4-star categories hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara) & Guest House/Lodge in Trekking Duration
  • BLD (breakfast, lunch, dinner) include in trekking Duration
  • Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara & Full board during the trek
  • Professional English-Speaking Guide (4 trekkers: 1 trekking guide) & and porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging.
  • Sightseeing as per itinerary with entrance fees
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP /Trekking entry fees).
  • Welcome or farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes

Excluded

  • Nepal Visa fees ($25/40 upon arrival)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Meals other than listed (lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara is not included)
  • Battery charge, extra porters, mineral water or boiled water & hot shower
  • Personal expenses. (Tips, Laundry, Telephone, bar, beverages)
  • Travel & rescue Insurance
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • All other personal expenses not listed in the included section

The Mardi Himal Trek is situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal, south of Pokhara. It lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area, offering scenic mountain views and serene trails.

The trek usually takes 5 to 7 days, depending on your pace and chosen itinerary. Some trekkers combine it with Poon Hill or the Annapurna Base Camp trek for a longer adventure.

The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp, at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). The trail also passes through High Camp (4,200 meters), offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

The trek is rated moderate. It involves uphill and downhill trails, some steep sections, and high-altitude walking. Trekkers should have average fitness and good stamina.

No prior experience is required, but being physically fit helps. Regular walking, hiking, or cardio exercises before the trek can make the journey more enjoyable.

The best seasons are:

  • Spring (March to May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and mild temperatures.

  • Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, crisp air, and stunning mountain views.

Winter is cold, and monsoon brings rain and slippery trails.

Accommodation is mainly teahouses or lodges, offering twin-sharing rooms, blankets, and meals. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available in most lodges for a small fee.

Teahouses provide Nepali and international dishes such as Dal Bhat, noodles, soup, pasta, pancakes, and eggs. Vegetarian options are widely available.

ESSENTIALS

EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

Ensure you have all the essentials to make your trip safe and enjoyable.

General

  • Duffel or Rucksack Bag
  • Day Pack (20-22 Liter)
  • Down Jacket
  • 4 Seasons Sleeping Bag
  • Extra Batteries/Power Bank
  • Charger for Devices
  • Travel Adapter

Body

  • Sun Hat or Scarf, Sunglasses, Headband
  • Light Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
  • Hiking Boots & Camp Shoes
  • Hiking pants & Fleece Pants
  • Wool Socks & Lightweight Inner Socks
  • Thermal Tops & T-Shirts
  • Gloves or Mittens

Accessories

  • Headlamp & Water Bottles
  • First Aid Kit
  • Trekking Poles
  • Toiletries
  • Lip Balm & Earplugs
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags

Other Essentials

  • Passport
  • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
  • Towel with Personal Care Kit
  • Toilet paper (2 rolls)
  • Maps and Trail Guides
  • Camera with Extra Memory Cards
  • Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes

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