Escape the Crowds and trek to Mardi Himal in the Annapurnas
An Overview of the
Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek perfectly embodies Nepal's beauty and solitude to those seeking to explore its less frequented trails. Far from the bustling trails of more popular treks, this path introduces trekkers to the serene landscapes and inviting terrains of Mardi Himal.
Participants move through lush forests, across intriguing ridges, and around vibrant rhododendron blooms, with the constant backdrop of the Annapurna range providing spectacular natural scenery.
Spring enhances the Mardi Himal trek with remarkable vistas. The highlight of this period is the rhododendron. As Nepal's national flower, it bursts into an array of colours – bold reds, soft pinks, and soothing purples.
The resulting landscape is a rich tapestry, with trails lined by rhododendron woods adorning the hillsides in stunning profusion. The scent of these flowers contributes to the overall ambience, rendering each stride into a pleasant encounter.
Choose the Mardi Himal Trek if you desire a brief yet rich experience of the Himalayas' natural beauty. Traverse iconic landscapes, taking in forested areas and mountain meadows. Enjoy unobstructed views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Gangapurna (7,455m), and Machapuchre (6,993m).
The Mardi Himal Trekking Itinerary
The adventure begins in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, followed by a picturesque transit to Pokhara, where the route begins. The trail carves its path through dense rhododendron thickets, guiding adventurers towards a village with panoramic mountain views.
This journey continues through Forest Camp, ascending past Middle Camp, where the majestic Annapurna South and Machapuchre Peak reveal their grandeur in the distance. The journey peaks at High Camp, culminating in the breathtaking Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint.
How Difficult Is
The Mardi Himal Trek?
Navigating the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is not so much a question of technical challenge as it is of endurance. It's a well-trodden path, free from technical climbs or the need for advanced mountaineering skills.
The trek's notable ascent begins from the highest teahouse at Mardi Himal, escalating 1000 meters to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. This segment, while demanding, reveals the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Mardi Himal itself stands at an elevation of 5587 meters, with the base camp nestled at 4500 meters. Though the journey reaches these remarkable heights, trekkers find their overnight stay at the maximum altitude of 3580 meters at High Camp.
The descent poses the greatest challenge, particularly the stretch from Middle Camp to Siding. This part of the trek is a rigorous decline of nearly 1400 meters in a single day. It is a true test of endurance, pushing the limits of both knees and stamina.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu - Pick up at the international airport and transfer to your hotel.
Day 02: Journey to Pokhara - A scenic 6-hour drive to the gateway of the Mardi Himal trek.
Day 03: Commence Mardi Himal Trekking - Drive for 1 hour to Dhamphus, followed by a 3-hour ascent to Pitam Deurali.
Day 04: Ascend to Forest Camp - A tranquil 4-hour trek through dense forestry, reaching an elevation of 2550 m.
Day 05: Progress to Middle Camp - Hike for 5 hours amidst captivating landscapes, arriving at 3220 m.
Day 06: Reach High Camp - A 5.5-hour trek, the threshold before the Mardi Himal Base Camp, standing at 3580 m.
Day 07: Mardi Himal Base Camp Exploration - 7-hour round trip day hike to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, with an overnight stay at Middle Camp.
Day 08: Descend to Sidhing - 6-hour downward trek to the serene village of Sidhing at 1850 m altitude.
Day 09: Return Journey to Pokhara - A 3-hour descent to Lumre, followed by a 2-hour drive back to relax in Pokhara.
Day 10: Leisure Day in Pokhara - A free day to unwind and explore Pokhara at leisure.
Day 11: Drive Back to Kathmandu - Return to the capital over a 6-hour drive after your Mardi Himal adventure.
Day 12: Leisure Day in Kathmandu - A day reserved for personal time in the heart of Nepal.
Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu - Last transfer from your hotel to Kathmandu International Airport.
Navigating with the
Mardi Himal Trek Map
The Mardi Himal Trek map provided is a basic overview, designed to offer a snapshot of the trek's route. It guides you from Pokhara's verdant lowlands to the rigorous paths leading to Mardi Himal Base Camp.
A glance at this map empowers trekkers with a clear view of the journey's path, encompassing diverse terrains and elevations, enabling thoughtful preparation for the adventure in the heart of Nepal's unparalleled landscapes.
Altitude at Mardi Himal Base Camp
Initiated in the friendly altitude of Pokhara, the trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp advances steadily to reach 4,500 meters. This ascent pace allows trekkers to comfortably adjust to the altitude, passing through multiple mountain environments and revealing captivating views.
At the pinnacle, the reward is a spectacular vista and an authentic feeling of accomplishment, standing with the highest summits.
Best time to trek Mardi Himal
To maximise the Mardi Himal trekking experience, Nepal's spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most favourable times. These months feature the most stable weather conditions, clear skies, and vibrant blooms of rhododendrons and other native flora, creating a photogenic backdrop for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike.
What's Included and Not Included in the Mardi Himal Trek
The cost of the trek is dynamic, reflective of trekking seasons, group sizes, and additional logistics. A starting price is provided, with fluctuations expected based on the specific demands of the trekking period.
What's included:
· Airport Transfer: Pickup and drop-off from Kathmandu International Airport to your hotel.
· Transportation: Round trip drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, including transport to the start and end points of the Mardi Himal trek.
· Accommodation in Kathmandu: Three nights in a private hotel room in Thamel, Kathmandu, with breakfast included.
· Accommodation in Pokhara: Three nights in a private hotel room in Pokhara, with breakfast included.
· Teahouse Accommodation: Private teahouse room during the Mardi Himal trekking adventure.
· Meals: Three daily meals during the trek - breakfast, lunch, and dinner
· Mountain Guide: A licensed, certified, and English-speaking mountain guide with experience.
· Porter Service: Luggage carrying service up to 10 kg per trekker.
· Crew Support: Includes salary, food, lodging, and insurance for the mountain guide and porter.
· Equipment: Free use of a waterproof bag for the trek.
· Permits and Taxes: ACAP fee, TIMS card, and all local taxes.
· Local Support: Assistance from the Sherpa Trekking head office in Kathmandu.
What’s not included:
· Flights: International airfare to Kathmandu.
· Visa: Nepal entry visa fees.
· Meals in Cities: Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
· Personal Expenses: Beverage bills, hot shower, internet, laundry, and battery charging during the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek.
· Insurance: Personal travel insurance.
· Emergency Services: Costs for rescue operations in emergencies.
· Unplanned Expenses: Any costs due to itinerary changes, flight delays, natural calamities, etc.
· Gratuities: Tips for the mountain guide and porter.
Embarking on the Mardi Himal trek, adventurers open themselves to a world of natural beauty, cultural insights, and a trekking experience unlike any other in the Himalayas.
This journey is more than just a trek; it's an opportunity to connect deeply with Nepal’s natural world and warm, welcoming local communities. Join us for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Himalayas with Sherpa Trekking, where every step is a story waiting to be told.
