Nestled amidst the Annapurna region of Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek 10 days offers a captivating journey through verdant forests, tranquil villages, and stunning mountain vistas. This moderate-level trek, spanning approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles), takes you from the charming village of Pritam Deurali to the breathtaking Mardi Himal Base Camp, standing at an elevation of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet).
The trail winds through lush rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of vibrant flora and fauna, including the elusive Himalayan Monal, Nepal's national bird. As you ascend, the scenery transforms into dramatic panoramas of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre, also known as the "Fishtail Peak."
Along the way, you'll encounter traditional Gurung villages, where you can immerse yourself in their rich culture and warm hospitality. The village of Low La Kharka, nestled amidst stone-walled houses and terraced fields, offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Gurung people.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect choice for those seeking an immersive trekking experience that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and a moderate level of challenge. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast seeking a transformative adventure, the Mardi Himal Trek promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Annapurna region.
Day 02: Flight Kathmandu - Pokhara and drive to Kande (1 hrs) - trek to Pitam-Deurali (2100 m) 2.5 hrs
Day 03: Pitam-Deurali (2100 m) - Forest Camp (2550 m) 4-5 hrs
Day 04: Forest Camp (2550 m) - Low Camp (2990 m) 3 hrs
Day 05: Low Camp (2990 m) - High Camp (3580 m) 3 hrs
Day 06: Day hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m) and return to High Camp (3580 m) 6-7 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Siding Village (1700m) 5-6 hrs
Day 08: Trek to Lumre and drive to Pokhara (3 hrs trek and 2 hrs drive)
Day 09: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure Day
Cost Includes:
Airport picks up and drops by private vehicle.
Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis including breakfast.
Tented camp as per itinerary during trekking, meals on full board (breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) with hot drinks tea, and coffee.
All necessary camping equipment
An experienced English-speaking trekking guide, and porters(2 trekkers: 1 potter)
All necessary trekking permits
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
All ground transportation by bus/private car/van depends on group size as per itinerary
Farewell Nepali Dinner in Kathmandu
All necessary papers work, office Service charges, and all Government Taxes
Cost Excludes:
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
Nepal entry visa fee, you can get a Nepal visa upon arrival at the Airport.
International Airfare/Airport tax
Alcoholic drinks, hot shower
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, sweets, snacks, beverages and bar bills, and camera battery charging.
Travel Insurance
Tips for tour/ trekking staff and driver
Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the Price Include section.
* This tour can be fully customized as per your requirement.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Today starting the day of our trip, we send our organization agents to pick you up at Tribhuwan International Airport. You will be heartily welcomed with greetings and shifted towards a tourist standard hotel. We additionally plan for a meeting at our office for a discussion about the upcoming trek.
Day 02: Flight Kathmandu - Pokhara and drive to Kande (1 hrs) - trek to Pitam-Deurali (2100 m) 2.5 hrs
We catch an early morning flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu and drive to Kande for about one hour on the Pokhara Baglung highway. The trail climbs for about 1 ½ hrs to the ridge at 2100 m. The clearing in the forest with the lodge settlement is known as the ‘Australian camp’. The place is scenic with a panoramic view of the Annapurna range and Pokhara valley. The trail further winds through the rhododendron forest to the mountain pass called ‘Deurali’. Deurali is overlooking the Modi Khola valley wedged between Annapurna South and Mardi Himal / Mt Fishtail. We stay overnight in Deurali.
Day 03: Pitam-Deurali (2100 m) - Forest Camp (2550 m) 4-5 hrs
After spending the beautiful morning in the ridge-top village of Deurali, we head off the main Annapurna trekking trail and follow the forested ridge to Forest camp. Since this is a new trekking destination, there are no teahouses along the way and we need to carry a packed lunch and sufficient water. The day’s walk in the rhododendron forest is beautiful with a gradual uphill. Overnight in camp.
Day 04: Forest Camp (2550 m) - Low Camp (2990 m) 3 hrs
The trail gradually climbs through the rhododendron forest following the ridge. The low camp has got a couple of tea houses in the clearing of the forest. The view of Mt Fishtail and Mardi Himal appears much closer. You find yourself closer to a clear blue sky with a view of layers of Himalayan foothills and a sweeping valley towards the south. Overnight in Low Camp
Day 05: Low Camp (2990 m) - High Camp (3580 m) 3 hrs
After a half-hour climb, the rhododendron forest takes us to Middle camp then to Badal Danda offers a stunning view of Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal itself. An hour or so above Low Camp the trail breaks out above tree line and towards the west, there is a good view to Annapurna South and Hiunchuli, and stay overnight in high camp.
Day 06: Day hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m) and return to High Camp (3580 m) 6-7 hrs
The plan for today is to wake early for a sunrise view of the mountains then after an early breakfast walk up the ridge towards Mardi Himal Base Camp. There is a well-established trail through the grass with a couple of steeper sections however overall not too challenging. Look out for the yak/ cow crossbreds grazing up here as well as the Danphe pheasant. In the summer the sheep and goats from lower villages are brought up to graze in this area so you will pass several herder’s huts along the way. After three hours we will reach Base Camp at an elevation of 4500m this is where we can look into the Annapurna Sanctuary and the panorama view is spectacular looking at the south face of Annapurna and all of the peaks in the Sanctuary as well as Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). We descend towards the high camp to stay overnight in the same lodge.
Day 07: Trek to Siding Village (1700m) 5-6 hrs
After early morning breakfast, we start to trek down to Siding through the pine forest and rhododendron forest. After taking a lunch break we continue to head down to Siding and spend overnight in the lodge.
Day 08: Trek to Lumre and drive to Pokhara (3 hrs trek and 2 hrs drive)
From Siding, you walk out to the road and head to Lumre, on the way you will pass the villages of Kalimati and Ghalel. Kalimati is mainly a Brahmin village with Ghalel and Siding mixed Brahmin and Gurung. From Lumre we drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight in Pokhara
Day 09: Fly back to Kathmandu
After breakfast in Pokhara, we head to the airport and catch our flight to Kathmandu. After you reach the hotel and freshen up, we host a farewell dinner today in one of the restaurants and share the memories of the trek.
Day 10: Departure Day
On the final day of the trip, you can go for collecting some memories for your loved one before the flight time. Our company’s private vehicle will take you to the airport focusing your flight time for your final departure our representative wishes for your safe journey and successful forward steps with respect and greetings at the airport.
Please Check Available Dates for The Year of:
Start Date
End Date
Availability
Price
Booking
Where is Mardi Himal?
Mardi Himal is a stunning mountain peak standing tall at 6,519 meters (21,388 feet) in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and less crowded route that offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Massif, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Machhapuchhre. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to high-altitude meadows and snow-capped peaks.
What are the required permits for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP Permit): This permit is required for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers the entire trekking route.
TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System): This card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal and is used to track the movement of trekkers and ensure their safety.
When is the best time for the Mardi Himal Trek?
The best time for the Mardi Himal Trek is during the autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May) seasons. These seasons offer favorable weather conditions with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall. During the monsoon season (June-August), the trails can become muddy and slippery due to heavy rains, and the high-altitude passes may be covered in snow. During the winter (December-February), the trek is extremely challenging due to extreme cold and snowy conditions.
Embarking on the Mardi Himal Trek offers an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Here's a comprehensive overview of the trek:
What are the highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek?
Untamed Beauty: Traverse through lush forests, terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and high-altitude meadows, witnessing the majestic Annapurna Massif, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and Machhapuchhre.
Cultural Immersion: Interact with the warm and welcoming Gurung communities, learning about their traditional lifestyles and customs.
Panoramic Views: Ascend to viewpoints like High Camp and Mardi Himal Viewpoint, capturing mesmerizing panoramas of snow-capped peaks and the vast Annapurna region.
Serenity and Tranquility: Enjoy a less-crowded trek, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the region and experiencing its unique flora and fauna.
Personal Growth: Challenge yourself physically and mentally, achieving a sense of accomplishment upon completing this rewarding journey.
How to prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Physical Fitness: Train consistently, focusing on cardiovascular endurance and strength training to tackle moderate ascents and high altitudes (up to 4,500 meters/14,764 feet at High Camp).
Altitude Acclimatization: Gradually adjust to high altitudes before starting the trek, spending a few days in Kathmandu (1,400 meters) before ascending.
Permits and Insurance: Obtain the necessary permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Card) and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Gear and Clothing: Pack appropriate attire for moderate-altitude trekking, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, hiking boots, a backpack, trekking poles, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit.
How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderately challenging trek, requiring a good level of fitness and experience. It involves moderate ascents, high altitudes (up to 4,500 meters/14,764 feet at High Camp), and varied terrain. The trek demands physical endurance, adaptability to diverse conditions, and a willingness to handle potential altitude sickness.
How fit do you need to be for the Mardi Himal Trek?
To tackle the Mardi Himal Trek, you should be in moderately good physical condition. Regular aerobic exercise, such as running, swimming, or cycling, will help develop the stamina required for long, uphill treks. Additionally, strength training will prepare your muscles for the demands of the trek.
What should you pack for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Here's a basic packing list for the Mardi Himal Trek:
