Mardi Himal TrekMardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

Experience the Mardi Himal Base Campratingbased on 2 reviews
  • Duration9 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 4500 meters/ 14764 feet.
  • Starts Kande
  • Ends Siding
  • Group Size 1 - 20
  • Best Season September to May
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$645
2 - 6 paxUS$575
7 - 10 paxUS$525
11 - 15 paxUS$490
16 - 20 paxUS$445
Price Per PersonUS$645All-inclusive services
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Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
  • Serene and less crowded trails
  • Enjoy dense pine and rhododendron forest
  • A landscape of superlatives, with supreme mountain views
  • Stunning panoramas of Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and the Annapurna range
  • Diverse examples of the region’s flora and fauna
  • Witness the Mardi Himal Base Camp

Situated in close proximity to Annapurna Base Camp, the 9 Days Mardi Himal Trek stands as one of the Himalayas’ hidden and less explored jewels. The trek was only opened to trekking in 2012 and provides a glorious opportunity to experience the spectacle of Mardi Himal Base Camp and the Himalayas via a route that still remains largely untrammeled by the trekking community.

Commencing at Pokhara, the trek starts by road and heads to the trailhead of Dhampus, an impeccably situated Gurung village with outstanding views of the mountains. From there, the trail winds on towards the equally picturesque village of Pothana then branches off from the standard Annapurna route and leads on out through the dense jungle to the aptly named Forest Camp. In spring, the entire area comes alive with the flowering of rhododendrons. Day after day, the track gradually inclines up through the Himalayan foothills until it finally breaks free of the tree line and adds yet another dimension to the trek by virtue of the sublime panoramas that open up to view.

Mardi Himal Trekking continues onward and upward, offering a superb vista of snow-covered peaks, including Fishtail 6993 m, Dhaulagiri 8167 m, and the Annapurna range, with a broad palette of colors adding their touch throughout the day, from early morning pastel tints to the vivid hues of midday to the warm glow of sunset farewelling the mountain tops at day’s end. The return path calls in at Low Camp and Lwang, then trades in precipitous trails for roadways and the drive back to Pokhara.

The Mardi Himal Trek represents a golden opportunity to experience the Annapurna region in a unique manner that’s as scenically rewarding as the better-known pathways while offering up a level of seclusion and peacefulness that comes from the sense that the entire area is your own private nature reserve to explore. The secret of Mardi Himal’s charms won't last long, so let Nepal Trekking Experts be the ones to set you up for a rare journey of wonder to the region, either with our set itinerary or one of your own design. Simply contact us and discuss the options with our knowledgeable staff.

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is considered a moderate trek, making it accessible for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. During this journey, you will trek through some uphill climbs, especially in the forested sections, but the ascents are not as steep as in other more challenging treks in Nepal. Also, the trek's highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp, located at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet), which can still pose a risk for altitude sickness if trekkers don't take adequate precautions. Moving on, this trek may offer unpredictable weather, particularly at higher altitudes. Conditions can change quickly, and trekkers should be prepared for cold temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings at base camp. The trail also passes through rocky, narrow sections, and some of the paths, particularly in the higher parts near Mardi Himal Base Camp, can be a little challenging due to loose gravel and slippery rocks.

Best Time To Trek To Mardi Himal Base Camp

The best time to trek Mardi Himal is during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. During Spring, you will be awed by the colorful beauty of the rhododendron blooms while Autumn provides excellent visibility of the towering peaks, including Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South. 

While Spring and Autumn are the prime trekking seasons for Mardi Himal, it’s important to note that the trek can be done in the Winter (December to February) for those who prefer fewer crowds and a more serene experience. However, the temperatures at higher elevations can drop significantly, making it cold and challenging. Trekking during the Monsoon (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, which can make trails slippery, increase the risk of landslides, and limit visibility.

Mardi Himal Viewpoint Trekking Permits

When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, the permit fees are included in your package. Your experienced guide will obtain all required permits on your behalf with your passport. To enter the Annapurna region, you will require two permits, which can both be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before commencing your trek.

  • The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card costs 2000 Nepali rupees, and as per the latest rule, it will be obtained through the trekking agencies only.
  • The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs 3000 Nepali rupees, is available through the Nepal Tourism Board, Bhirkutimandap Kathmandu, or Pokhara.

How Can I Make A Reservation For This Trip?

To confirm your trek with us, please send us an email with a copy of your passport, a passport-size photo, and flight details (if available), as well as a 10% deposit of the total amount, using our online payment gateway. The remainder of the payment can be made upon our arrival. For more details, contact our local specialists right away.

Useful Information

Tips For A Successful Mardi Himal Adventure Trek

  • Although the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is considered moderate, it's essential to build your stamina and endurance before the trek.
  • The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes. Be sure to check weather forecasts before and during the trek and be prepared for sudden changes. 
  • Dress in layers to manage the changing weather.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to stay hydrated and avoid altitude sickness.
  • The trail to Mardi Himal Base Camp involves a gradual ascent, but there are still sections that can be strenuous. Pace yourself by taking it slow, especially on the steep sections. 
  • While the trail is relatively well-marked, hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing local knowledge and insights.
  • Pack a small first aid kit with items such as band-aids, blister pads, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Accommodation During The Mardi Himal Panorama Trek

There are plenty of tea houses to choose from in the famous Annapurna region of Nepal, so there's no need to carry camping or cooking supplies. The Annapurna routes are well-loved and well-traveled, meaning that tea houses ranging in quality have been established to meet the range of needs of travelers. At lower elevations and busier areas, you can choose more fully equipped tea houses with electricity, wifi, and en suite bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets. There are also more rustic, basic tea houses available, especially at higher elevations, that have simple rooms and basic services. Bathrooms might be shared and have a squat-style toilet. At these tea houses, you can pay a small fee for services such as wifi and hot showers. We provide you with a clean, negative 10°C sleeping bag to keep you cozy and warm.

Meals During The Mardi Himal Panorama Trek

There are plenty of tea houses to choose from in the famous Annapurna region of Nepal, so there's no need to carry camping or cooking supplies. The Annapurna routes are well-loved and well-traveled, meaning that tea houses ranging in quality have been established to meet the range of needs of travelers. At lower elevations and busier areas, you can choose more fully equipped tea houses with electricity, Wi-Fi, and en suite bathrooms with hot showers and western toilets. There are also more rustic, basic community homestays (the money that you spend goes to the local community) and tea houses available, especially at higher elevations, that have simple rooms and basic services. Bathrooms might be shared and have a squat-style toilet. At these tea houses, you can pay a small fee for services such as Wi-Fi and hot showers. We provide you with a clean, negative 20°C sleeping bag to keep you cozy and warm.

Transportation To The Mardi Himal Viewpoint Trek

All transportation fees and arrangements are included in your trekking package when you book with Nepal Trekking Experts. To start your adventure on the Mardi Himal Trek, there are many transport options depending on your interest (by flight, by car, jeep, van, or tourist bus), time frame, and budget. A common route is to travel via tourist bus from Kathmandu (Sohrakhutte) to Pokhara (normally 7 hours, but it takes 10 hours now due to road construction and poor road conditions, which are already included in the package). If you take a flight, it takes 20 minutes. Common starting points include Phedi, Kande, Dhampus, Pothana, and Deaurali. The further you travel via Jeep, the less trekking you'll do by foot.

Bus rides can be part of the exciting, immersive experience of being in a foreign country, but they are not for everyone. If you would like a more comfortable alternative, we can arrange a private car, Jeep, or flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Private transportation shortens your travel time considerably, and you can stop for breaks at your leisure. With so many travel options, we'd be happy to talk things through with you to find what suits you best.

Battery Charging, Telephone Service, And Internet During The Mardi Himal Hike

Battery Charging

Despite trekking deep into the Himalayas, most of the tea houses have either electricity or solar power. Depending on the tea house, you might be able to charge your devices in your rooms. Otherwise, you can pay a few dollars (paid in local rupees) to charge your battery in the main dining hall. Carrying a power bank is recommended during your trek in the Mardi region.

Telephone Service

Nowadays, most villages have phone service and mobile reception, although it can be quite unpredictable. NCELL and Nepal Telecom are the two major SIM card providers. Nepal Telecom is recommended by the NTE for better reception in the Annapurna region. You can purchase a SIM card in Kathmandu when you arrive.

Internet 

Many tea houses have wifi to purchase for around 2-3 dollars per night, which is paid in local Nepali rupees. Please be aware that internet services may not be completely reliable due to weather and other issues.

Porter

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking at high altitudes, then we would recommend having a porter in the Annapurna region carry your bag across the rugged terrain. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you book your trek.

Mardi Himal Adventure Trekking Gear Checklist

Clothing

  • Raincoat, poncho, or combination jacket/trousers
  • One-down jacket/Gore-Tex jacket
  • Two pairs of hiking pants (depending on the duration of the trek)
  • One pair of shorts
  • Three or four T-shirts (depending on the duration of the trek)
  • One MIT/fleece jacket
  • One pair of base layers (merino wool or similar thermal ware)
  • Three to four pairs of hiking socks
  • A pair of waterproof or windproof gloves
  • Undergarments

Footwear

  • Trekking boots (water resistance, ankle support)
  • Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers

Other equipment

  • Sunglass, sunscreen, lip balm, sun hat, woolen/fleece hat/beanie, neck gaiter, first aid kit, Swiss army knife (optional), luggage cover, headlamp, trekking poles, water purification tablets or steripen, extra batteries, adapter, power bank, water bottles/camel bags/thermos, washing powder/multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, mosquito spray (optional), whistle, earplugs, reading books, playing cards/chess
  • Sleeping bag rating: -5/-10 degrees Celsius comfort depending on trekking route and season
  • Backpack (60 liters)
  • Daypack (25 to 30 liters)

Travel Insurance

It is one of the most important things you'll need overseas, particularly when trekking in Nepal. A policy that covers loss and theft, medical and hospitalization, evacuation from high altitude, and adventure activity coverage are among the basics you'll need. A wide variety of policies are available, so make sure to shop for the best possible options. You need to have a policy that's specific to the maximum height on your trek, bearing in mind that several companies place restrictions on that score—look closely at the fine print so that you're sure to get the right coverage, especially in the event of an emergency such as altitude sickness—helicopter evacuations are horrendously expensive.

Also note that most medical treatment and facilities in Nepal, such as hospitals, require payment upfront or approval from your insurance company, so it’s wise to choose a policy that pays the bills directly rather than lumping the burden on you and leaving it till later for the insurer to reimburse you.

Nepalese Currency And Payment

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 20, 000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35, 000. A charge of USD 4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.
Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport, then transfer to your hotel.

  • Max. Altitude:822m/2697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus. It's time for some short sightseeing around Pokhara and its beautiful setting by Phewa Lake.

  • Max. Altitude:2600m/8530ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

An hour’s drive takes us to Kande, where the trek commences with a hike to the most beautiful village, Australian Camp, with glorious views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail. The trail leads through verdant forests to Deaurali via Pothana village, where a perennial fork in the road awaits two separate adventures: one to Annapurna Base Camp and our route to the appropriately named Forest Camp. As the Mardi Himal area has only recently been opened up to trekking, there are blissfully fewer hikers on this route, and as we progress through the day, the relative peace and quiet blend in beautifully with the glimpses of local wildlife and the thickets of rhododendron, pine, and venerable oaks.

  • Max. Altitude:2970m/9744ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

While the title suggests the opposite, today's hike leads up towards the 3000-meter mark and on through dense woodlands to alpine views of scenic splendor that will make it nigh on impossible to keep cameras stored away for long.

  • Max. Altitude:3550m/11647ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

A challenging day of hiking presents us with rewarding views from High Camp, with the looming presence of Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiuchuli so close and present that it feels as if you could reach out a hand and touch them.

  • Max. Altitude:2970m/9744ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

The highlight day of a magnificent trek in the Mardi Himal. We hit the trail early to reach our high altitude viewpoint at sunrise, the effort to rise early well rewarded, with glorious vistas of the radiant Himalayan ranges aglow in the morning sunlight. Reluctantly leaving the scenic outlook, we descend rapidly and call it a day at Low Camp to sit back quietly and reflect on the day's magical views.

  • Max. Altitude:822m/2697ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Another day of rapid descent to Sidding, where we pause for a quick break before picking up our transport back to Pokhara. The hike leads through the forested slopes to increasing signs of civilization in the form of neatly terraced rice fields and rural outposts.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

A long day's drive by bus provides numerous scenic opportunities—and thrills—along the way.

  • Meals:Breakfast

Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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Note

The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan, please feel free to discuss it with us.

What's Included
Cost Includes
  • Complimentary airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Complimentary welcome dinner
  • Two-night stay in Kathmandu at 3-star hotel, including breakfast.
  • Two-night stay at 3-star hotel in Pokhara.
  • All necessary trekking permits, such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, the TIMS Card, etc.
  • All accommodations during the trek
  • Three meals a day during the trek
  • A cup of tea or coffee each time with the meal
  • If and when available, fresh fruit should be eaten every day.
  • Complimentary duffle bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, and sleeping bag if needed.
  • A government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
  • First-aid kit
  • Return travel by bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Staff insurance, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
  • Rescue arrangements, if necessary
  • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT
  • Certificate of Achievement
Cost Excludes
  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
  • Personal insurance, personal expenses, loss of property, theft, etc.
  • Sightseeing costs in the city (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
  • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
  • Tips for staff
Route MapDownload Map
Mardi Himal Trek map
Dates & Availability
Start:SaturdayFeb 15, 2025
End:SundayFeb 23, 2025
PriceUS$645
StatusGuaranteed
Private Date

Note

Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

Photos & Videos
Mardi Himal Trekking Video
View From The Trail Of Mardi Trek
Walking Through Rhododendron Forest In Mardi Trek
View Of Annapurna South And Hiuchuli
View From Badal Danda
Room And The Bed In Mardi Himal Trek
Rhododendron Forest In Mardi Himal Trek
Our Group Are Ready For The Hike In Forest Camp
Guest Are Having Breakfast In Mardi Himal High Camp
Badal Danda In Mardi Trek
FAQs for Mardi Himal Trek

  • Mardi Himal Trek is in the western part of Nepal. It is close to Pokhara.

  • Mardi Himal is 5587 meters/ 18330 feet.

  • The height of Mt Fishtail is 6997 meters/ 22956 feet.

  • Mardi Himal Base Camp is 4500 meters/ 14764 feet.

  • Mardi Himal Viewpoint is 4200 meters/ 13780 feet.

  • The Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp is an easy-rank trek in Nepal.

  • The Mardi Himal Adventure Trek costs 400 - 700 USD per person. It depends on the number of days, group size, and the service you want to include in the package.

  • Mardi Himal Panorama Trek spans across 50 km / 31 miles and takes 5/6 days to complete. 

  • Some short treks in Nepal are the Mardi Himal Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Khopra Danda Trek etc.

  • There are many Treks in Nepal that beginner trekkers also can attempt like, the Mardi Himal Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Chisapani Nagarkot Trek, Mohare Danda Trek, etc.

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2Travelers' Reviews
  • TripAdvisor
    rating star

    Mardi himal trek package

    I booked the mardi himal package and I didn’t have to worry about anything! I got picked up at the airport, I had a nice hotel to stay at (in Kathmandu and Pokhara) and I had a great hiking experience. My guide - resham - took care of everything. I felt save, he was good fun and I had the feeling no matter what he will manage for sure. Rajesh helped me a lot and answered every single question! If it was to decide which trek or where to get money out or…or…or… I really enjoyed the amazing service. If I ever come back to Nepal and want to trek I will go for Nepal trekking experts again! Thanks for such a great and stunning experience.

    A
    Anja VMar 24, 2024Germany
  • TripAdvisor
    rating star

    Best trekking agency in Nepal: Amazing Mardi Himal trek!

    I can highly recommend to choose Rajesh and his amazing team for doing a trekking in the beautiful Himalaya's of Nepal. First of all, Rajesh provide great service and is he really helped me with my stay in Nepal. He also provides me really helpful information, advices and an itinerary for several trekking and my stay in Nepal in general. He always welcomes you into their office with a drink and a smile! Last February I did the Mardi Himal trek, with my friend and guide Thakur. I can only say the best things about Thakur, and once again: thank you so much for this great experience and doing such an amazing job being our guide! Before I did Mardi Himal, I did two trekkings without a guide, but I can highly recommend to go with a guide! We faced a lot of snow during the trek and Thakur had a lot of knowledge about the weather(forecast) and different circumstances because of snow. I felt really safe all the time. Thakur had a really positive attitude, is really knowledgeable and respectful, fit and helpful and was really willing to answer all our questions on mountains and trekking, but also about Nepal and the Nepali culture and his life in Nepal. What deserves a special mention was the first aid skills of Thakur. When I twisted my ankle very badly, he had a full first aid kit in his backpack and he was able to treat my ankle in a way that I was able to continue on with the trek. I'm really grateful for this! So, I had a very good experience with this agency and the capable staffmembers and I can higly recommend to choose this agency for your trekking in Nepal. Rajesh and Thakur, many thanks for doing this amazing job!! See you soon!

    M
    MyrtheJul 04, 2019Netherlands
tripadvisor
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