Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport, a representative from Naata Trek and Tours will be waiting for you at the airport, displaying a playing card imprinted with your name. He/she will then transfer you to the designated hotel. In the evening, we can enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by Naata Trek and Tours. We can enjoy Nepalese cuisine during dinner, which introduces us to the country’s food culture.
Mardi Himal Trek
10 Days Days
Trip Facts
Duration
10 Days Days
Fitness Level
Moderate
Max. Altitude:
4450 meters
Location
Mardi Himal Base Camp
Meals
Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals during the trek
Accommodation
3-star hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Teahouses during the trek
Group size
2-16
Arrival On
Nepal
Departure From
Kathmandu
Highlights
- Magnificient views of mountains such as Machhapuchre, Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, among many others.
- Dhampus, a popular one-day hike village from Pokhara, provides excellent views of the valley and the mountain ranges.
- Pokhara, a beautiful lake city, is also a popular tourist destination.
- A walk through charming villages and lush green forests.
- A short yet beautiful trip for those on a limited-time.
Overview
The Mardi Himal trek is one of the hidden gems in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Mardi Himal is a trekking peak that lies beneath the more prominent Machhapuchre and Annapurna mountains at an altitude of 5,587 meters. Unlike more popular treks such as the Everest base camp trek, the trail to the base camp of Mardi Himal is a lesser-known trek and is situated in the southern region of the popular Annapurna base camp. However, any trek in the Annapurna region is worth undertaking. The trip also takes us to the ever-popular touristic lake city of Pokhara. Also called the city of lakes, there are plenty of activities to do in Pokhara itself. The trek takes 6 days from Pokhara.
The mountain itself is classified as a trekking peak as it sits at an undemanding altitude, and one can scale the peak too. The trail to the base camp of Mardi Himal is situated in the southern region of the popular Annapurna base camp and takes us to an altitude of 4,500 meters. Despite the village’s charm and the mountains’ views, the Mardi Himal region has had very few visitors. However, it is slowly changing, and Mardi Halal has been getting many visitors lately. It is perhaps the best trek to undertake for those who want to avoid crowds and want to take a short trip.
The trek provides splendid views of snow-capped mountains such as Annapurna south (7,219 m), Machhapuchre (6,993 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Him Chuli (6,441 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Gangapurna (,7454 m), Dhaulagiri Himal (8,167m) among others. It is the nearest trail to the newly inaugurated Kori trek. The trek starts with a short 40-minute drive from Pokhara to Phedi. The trekking trail passes through Deurali, Low Camp, High Camp, and finally to the Mardi base camp trek. The trail also takes us to the small village of Siddhing, a hushed place to stay overnight, away from the more busy trails. The trail takes us through alluring rhododendron forests, stunning valleys, and ridges from where the views are splendid.
Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most interesting treks in Nepal. It has been gaining quite some popularity recently. Like Mardi Himal, a similar trek in the Annapurna region is the Khopra Ridge Trek.
Itinerary
Maximum
Altitude :
1400 meters
Meal :
Dinner
Accommodation
:
3-star hotel
After breakfast, we will have a pre-trip meeting to introduce you to your Guide. During the meeting, you can provide yourself with any queries regarding the trip.
We start our drive early in the morning, which is a rewarding sight as rivers and views of green rolling hills accompany us. We enjoy the sunset at Pokhara Lakeside, which is a tourist hub. You can also visit pubs, bars and restaurants.
Maximum
Altitude :
910 meters
Meal :
Breakfast
Accommodation
:
3-star hotel
After breakfast, we take a short drive, some 40 minutes, to the outskirts of Pokhara and reach Phedi. From Phedi, we walk around 1.5 hours to reach Dhampus, a beautiful Gurung settlement. Continuing our walk for 2 hours, we reach Deurali, where we stay for the night.
Maximum
Altitude :
2200 meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
Tea House
Walking
Distance :
3-4 hours
Driving
Distance :
2 hours
After breakfast today, we climb sharply for a couple of hours, and we are out of the forest onto a grassy trail, sometimes full of snow. As you get closer to your destination, low camp, the mountains become more vivid. After a tiring walk of 6-7 hours, the local tea up in the low camp tastes rewarding. You can just recapitulate the journey, watching the best views of the Annapurna South and Mt. Machhapuchhre.
Maximum
Altitude :
2970 meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
Tea House
Walking
Distance :
6-7 hours
We embarked on our trek after an early breakfast day to capture the splendid sunrise view of the mountains. We walked on pasture ridges filled with snow during the winter. The trail elevated throughout the trek up to High Camp. We walked in thin air above the tree line, and the temperature dropped. After walking for about 4 to 5 hours, we finally reached High Camp.
Maximum
Altitude :
2970 meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
Tea House
Walking
Distance :
6-7 hours
On our trek to Mardi Himal base camp, we climb and plunge, sometimes on a sheer and narrow trail. Our trial passes through grassy land, and we walk along a narrow crest before reaching the base. We walk through the wilderness and the lesser known but magnificent plateaus to the foothill of Mardi Himal(5587m) with the tall Machhapuchre(6993m), Singhachuli (6500m) along with Annapurna I and Annapurna south (7219m) rising in the skylines. This is the highest point of our trek. We spend ample time to rejoice there and return the same trail back to high camp, where we will spend our night.
Maximum
Altitude :
4230 meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
Tea House
Walking
Distance :
4-5 hours
After a memorable walk through the ridges, we take a turn, which leads us to a different route, omitting the one going back down to Mardi Himal. The distinct route serves us with all the diverse experiences and views and makes our trek even more exhilarating. After a walk of about 6 to 7 hours, we reach Siddhing, a hushed place for trekkers to stay overnight, away from the busier trials.
Maximum
Altitude :
1700 meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
Tea House
Walking
Distance :
6-7 hours
The last day of our trek begins the usual way: waking up early and walking after breakfast, but it’s different somehow. (probably something seems to hold the leg back, and you do not want the trek to end, the trial to join the road, but unfortunately, it does) Finally, after walking for 2 to 3 hours, our trial connects the road where we climb into our vehicle waiting for us and drive back to Pokhara. You will have time to enjoy the nightlife of Pokhara city.
Maximum
Altitude :
1700 meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
Teahouse
Walking
Distance :
6-7 hours
Today, we take a morning drive to Kathmandu, recalling all your beautiful trek memories. You can rest for some time and freshen up. In the evening, Naata Trek and Tours will organize a THANK YOU dinner for you.
Maximum
Altitude :
1400 Meters
Meal :
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
:
3-star hotel
Walking
Distance :
3-4 hours
Driving
Distance :
1-2 hours
Naata’s team will bid you farewell and wish you a happy journey back home. One of our representatives will transfer you to the airport.
Maximum
Altitude :
1400 meters
Included in the Cost
- Airport pickup and drop in a private vehicle
- 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast Teahouses accommodation during the trek
- Welcome and farewell dinner programs
- All ground transportation on a private vehicle
- An experienced, English speaking and government-liscensed trek leader and assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
- Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
- Staff costs including salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
- Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
- Naata Travel & Adventures trekking bag, t-shirt and trekking map (which are yours to take)
- All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
- Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
Not Included in the Cost
- Nepalese visa fee (Bring accurate USD cash and two passport size photographs)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Excess baggage charges
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porter, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc)
- Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)
- All other not mentioned in cost includes section
Map
Traveler Reviews
Patrick Garcia
May 23, 2023
May 23, 2023
I had a whale of a time on the Mardi Himal trek. From the beginning to the conclusion of the journey, everything was mesmerizing and commendable. Escaping from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, I entered into the serene landscape. I am forever grateful to Naata Travel and Adventure for making my expedition memorable with their seamless support and care.
Elias Böhm
March 12, 2020
March 12, 2020
The trek to Mardi Himal was much more like a journey through culture and natural beauty than a physical one. Passing through Gurung communities appreciating the grandeur of mountain peaks and diverse landscapes made the journey absolutely Phenomenal. I wholeheartedly thank Naata Travel and Adventure for their assistance and guidance.
Aiden Brown
February 1, 2019
February 1, 2019
What a wonderful trip! I would like to thank team Naata for their support that hit the nail on the head. Talking about Mardi Himal, it was exhilarating. From the moment I set foot on the trail to my final departure, the raw beauty of the Annapurna region swept me away. A highly recommended trek.
Jack Thompson Testimonial
September 9, 2022
September 9, 2022
The Mardi Himal trek offered an unforgettable adventure through Nepal’s majestic mountains, leaving me awestruck by its beauty
Write Us A review
Trip Information
Best Season for Mardi Himal trek
Spring season
The best time to do this trek is in spring, which is one of the best seasons to undertake any trek in Nepal. Spring season starts from the month of March to May and is the pre-monsoon time of the year. Blooming flowers and forests mark this time of the year. This time of
the year, the rhododendron forests are also in full bloom, making the trail quite
pleasing to the eye. In addition, the weather is mild, and coupled with the clear views
of the sky and the mountains, spring season is one of the best seasons to trek in
Nepal.
Autumn season
From September to November, autumn is a favorable time to
trek anywhere in Nepal. As it is the post-monsoon season, the dust will have been
washed away by the rain, making the greenery around it as vibrant as possible. Also,
the harvest season of Nepal, the autumn season, is characterized by the biggest festivals
of Nepal. Thus, by making a trip to Nepal during this time of the year, you will not only
see the country’s natural beauty but also experience the cultural
side of the people of Nepal. So, you can book this trek in the autumn season for a more authentic experience.
Day to Day itinerary
After your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, the following day, we
drive for 8-9 hours to reach the ever-popular lake city of Pokhara. Pokhara itself is a
city to enjoy oneself in, boasting more than eight lakes and close-up views of the
mountains. There are several temples to visit, and you can always relax in one of the many pubs on the lakeside.
The Mardi Himal trek takes 10 days from Kathmandu, but the 5daysMardii himal trek is also possible. The following day, we drove for an hour and started our trek from Phedi. However, there are other trails along the Mardi Himal route. It is also possible to start the trek from Nayalpul itself if you want a longer trek or from Kande if you want an alternative route. We’ll start the trek and hike for around 2 hours to reach the beautiful Gurung village of Dhampus.
We continue further to reach Deurali, where we spend the night. We set for the low camp of Mardi Himal the next day. We trek along some forests, after which we traverse grassy trails. As we move from the high camp to Mardi Himal, the views of Mardi Himal become more prominent. From here on, the views of the mountains become clearer, and the view of Machhapuchre and Lamjung Himal becomes scintillating. We spend the night in the low camp. We catch the sunrise hitting the mountains and continue on the trail that ascends to High Camp. We reach high camp after 4-5 hours of hike.
The trail to Mardi Himal base camp the next day is quite exhilarating, and as we trek along the route, we can enjoy splendid views of the mountains. We make steep ascents in some places and dive down some narrow trails on the ridges to reach Mardi Himal Base camp, which is also the highest point of our trek. The views from the Mardi Himal base camp are scintillating, with the views of Machhapuchre in the backdrop.
We trace back our steps along the Mardi himal to spend the night in high camp. Like the Annapurna circuit trek, the day after, we rerouted our trail, omitting the one we used to reach the base camp, and followed the trail to a quaint village called Siddhing. As we trek to the base camp and back, we will have many memories to savor. The subsequent day is the last day of our trek as we head towards Lumre, where our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Pokhara. We can spend our evening enjoying a couple of drinks on the banks of Phewa Lake.
Accommodation and food in the Mardi Himal trek
The accommodation available on the Mardi himal base camp trek is quite basic. It is quite similar to treks like Annapurna base camp. Tea houses are on the way, with all the basic facilities and necessities we need. The rooms usually sleep around 2-3 trekkers per room, and the bathrooms are shared. But please note that taking hot showers and charging up your phone will cost you extra the higher you go. Hotel Stupa is one example of the tea houses available on the trail. As for the food available, you can take your pick from Nepali and Tibetan-inspired food such as dal bhat (rice, lentils, and curry), momos (dumplings), potato pancakes, and thukpa, among many others. If you want Western food, dishes such as pancakes, porridge, oatmeal, and omelets will also be available. However, the food and accommodation available in the trek can vary from place, and the higher you go, the range of options for food will decrease to some extent. You can include some chocolate bars on your Mardi Halal trek packing
Off Beaten Trail of Mardi Himal
The Trial of Mardi Himal identifies in quite a way with Robert Forst’s poem ‘The Road Less Travelled.’ Only opened in 2012, Mardi Himal is one of Nepal’s least visited trekking peaks.
The Mardi Himal trek is a short route in Annapurna that starts by passing through a forest dominated by pristine rhododendrons, pine, and oak trees. The trail then ascends through undulating trails and ridges that are pleasurable beyond measure. The hardest part of this trek is the rocky terrain from the High camp to the base camp. The Mardi Himal trek is difficult, and one with average health can easily make it.
Mardi Himal lies east of Annapurna Base Camp at an altitude of 5587m. It is considered one of the lowest peaks in Nepal. Despite its height of 5587m, we can trek only up to 4450m. If Mountain climbing is on your bucket list, Mardi Himal will teach you as much as you can.
Major Attractions of Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal trek is for you if you want a quieter experience in Nepal’s most favored trekking region. The Mardi Himal trekking route makes a small circuit up to the base camp of Mardi Himal so that we do not have to backpedal on the same turf.
Thus, this 7-day trek from Pokhara up to Mardi Himal base camp and ultimately to High camp provides wonderful panoramic views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchre (fishtail), and Hiuchuli mountains. Furthermore, the terraced farms, charming villages and ravishing rivers make it a ‘Trip of the decade‘ if not a ‘Trip of your Life’. The average walking hours is 5-7 hours per day.
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