Mardi Himal Adventure Trek -4N/5D

  • Duration 5
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts at
  • Ends at
  • Meals Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Accommodation Tea Houses/Lodges
  • Max. Altitude 4,500 m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Group Type
  • Group Size 2-35
  • Best Season April-May and Sepember- November
Highlights

 🏔️Experience stunning panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli from High Camp and Mardi Himal      Base Camp.

🌲Trek through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, offering tranquility and natural beauty.

 🏕️Reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters for incredible close-up views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre.

 🚶‍♂️Enjoy a quieter, less-crowded trail that offers a more intimate experience of Nepal’s nature and culture.

 🍵Stay in cozy tea houses along the route, where you can enjoy local meals and interact with the friendly locals.

 🏞️Experience the warm hospitality of the Gurung and Magar people, learning about their unique customs and lifestyles.

 🥾This trek is perfect for beginner to intermediate trekkers, offering a moderate challenge with manageable daily distances.

🏔️Get unforgettable views of the iconic Fishtail peak, especially from High Camp and the base camp.

 📸Capture breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to snow-covered peaks, with vibrant cultural moments along the way.

🚗Easily accessible from Pokhara, with a short drive to the trek’s starting point in Kande and a return from Sidding Village.

Mardi Himal Adventure Trek -4N/5D Overview

Tour Description:

Mardi Himal 5 Days Trek is the perfect short hike in Nepal’s Annapurna area for people who wish to enjoy high mountain views but not spend considerable amounts of time trekking the high Himalayas. The trek starts from Pokhara and leads you to the base of Mardi Himal, with a panoramic view of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.

The route traverses calm forests, villages with remnants of a bygone era, and alpine ridges. It is less visited as a trek compared to popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill and is a great off-the-road experience. It is ideal for novices as well as veterans of treks looking for a short but satisfying Himalayan trek.

Why go on the 5-Day Mardi Himal Trek?

  • Ideal for Short holiday getaways: It is ideal when you don’t have a week but still want a genuine Himalayan experience. You’ll find yourself high up on mountain ridges with panoramic views of the Annapurna range within 5 days.
  • Scenic views of the Hills: From Mardi Himal Base Camp and Mardi Himal High Camp, you get some of the best up-close views of the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak), Annapurna South, and Mardi Himal.
  • Fewer Travellers’ Path: While the Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani is well-known and overcrowded, the Mardi Himal path remains a hidden gem. It offers tranquillity, silence, and a greater sense of oneness with nature.
  • Starts and Ends in Pokhara: It is most conveniently accessible if you happen to already be in Pokhara. It avoids the long bus ride or flights from Kathmandu, which is both time and cost-saving.
  • Natural Richness: Hike through thick stands of rhododendron bushes, alpine meadows, and high mountain ridges. It is a journey across a number of climatic regimes within a short time spell.
  • Cultural Experience: Overnight stay in typical tea houses and interact with local Gurung and Magar communities along the trek.
  • Low-cost Trek: Short distances and lower number of permits make it one of Nepal’s most economical treks.
  • Flexible Itinerary Options: It is possible to add a visit to Lwang Village or Australian Camp along with the trekking, or adjust the trek into a 4-day itinerary as desired.
  • Best Hike for Photography: March–May and September–November have clear skies and excellent light and mountain views for the photographer.
Day to Day Itinerary
Expand all

  • Time: Start at 8:00 AM

  • Route: Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Pokhara and drive to Kande, the starting point of your trek.

  • Trek to Pitam Deurali: Hike from Kande to Pitam Deurali (1,925m), a 4-hour trek through forest trails with occasional views of the Annapurna range.

  • Overnight: Stay overnight at a lodge in Pitam Deurali, a tranquil spot in the mountains.

  •  Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea Tea Houses/ Lodges
  • Lunch and Dinner
  • 4 hours
  • 6 km

  • Route: Begin your trek from Pitam Deurali to Low Camp (2,985m), covering around 9 km over 6 hours. This section gradually ascends through dense forests.

  • Lunch Break: Stop at Forest Camp (2,600m) for lunch after trekking about 4 hours.

  • Overnight: Stay at a lodge in Low Camp.

  • Tea Tea Houses/ Lodges
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 5-6 hours
  • 9 km

  • Route: Hike from Low Camp to High Camp (3,550m), covering around 6 km in 4 hours. As you ascend, enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and Annapurna South.

  • Overnight: Stay at a lodge in High Camp.

  • Tea Tea Houses/ Lodges
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 4 hours
  • 6 km

  • Optional Trek: Choose to hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) or a scenic viewpoint halfway. The round-trip trek to Base Camp covers approximately 10 km and takes 4-5 hours.

  • After visiting the base camp, descend back to Low Camp (3,210m).

  • Overnight: Stay at a lodge in Low Camp.

  • Tea Tea Houses/ Lodges
  • Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • 5-6 hours
  • 10 km

  • Route: Trek down from Low Camp to Sidding Village, covering about 10 km in 5 hours.

  • Return to Pokhara: A vehicle will be arranged from Sidding Village to drive you back to Pokhara.

  • End of Trek: Conclude your trek with unforgettable memories of the Annapurna region and the Mardi Himal mountains.

  • Tea Tea Houses/ Lodges
  • Breakfast-Lunch
  • 5-6 hours
  • 10 km
Altitude Chart

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Cost Includes

Private Car or Van from Pokhara to Kande and Shared Jeep from Sidding Village back to Pokhara for convenient and comfortable transportation.
Clean Lodge Accommodations during the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, ensuring a restful stay with basic amenities.
Three Delicious Meals Daily (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at tea houses along the route, featuring local Nepali cuisine.
ACAP Permit and TIMS Card Permit for the Mardi Himal Trek, required for trekking in the Annapurna region.
Licensed English-Speaking Trekking Guide with extensive area expertise, offering insights into the local culture and environment.
Guide  Food, Accommodation, Transportation, Salary, Insurance, and Equipment, covered for a smooth trekking experience.
All Necessary Paperwork including government and local taxes, making the process seamless and compliant with        regulations.
Appreciation Certificate awarded after completing the trek, marking your achievement.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Services for a seamless travel experience from Pokhara to Kande and back from Sidding Village.

Cost Excludes

Hotel Accommodations in Pokhara before or after the trek.
Tips to Your Trekking Guide are not included in the package cost.
Extra Expenses such as WIFI, hot showers, and battery charging at teahouses during the trek.
Any Alcoholic Beverages and cold drinks consumed during the trek.
Porters are available at an additional cost, arranged at the time of departure from Pokhara.

Departure Dates
  • We have daily departures for this trip from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. You can type in the number of passengers to book a reservation and select a date that is convenient for you. Due to group size, we never cancel a trip once you’ve made a reservation. If you would rather join the group, we will add more travelers on the selected date. You can let us know once you make a reservation or earlier.
Useful Info

Trekking Permits

To trek the Mardi Himal, you will need the ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). These permits ensure your safety and help protect the local environment. Both can be easily arranged through your trekking agency in Pokhara.

Accommodation

During the trek, you’ll stay in tea houses and lodges. These accommodations are basic but clean and offer a comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking. Private rooms may be available on request, but it’s always good to book in advance during peak trekking seasons.

Meals

All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided along the trek. You’ll enjoy traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momo, and roti, as well as some international options. Meals are served in the tea houses and are a great opportunity to experience local flavors.

Weather and Best Time to Trek

The best time to trek Mardi Himal is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). The weather is generally clear and pleasant during these months, with beautiful mountain views and mild temperatures. The trail can get quite cold at higher altitudes, so it’s essential to pack warm clothing.

Altitude Considerations

The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Although this trek is considered moderate, trekkers should be prepared for altitude. It’s important to stay hydrated and avoid overexertion. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s crucial to descend to a lower elevation immediately.

Trekking Guide and Porter

For a more enjoyable trekking experience, you’ll be accompanied by a licensed, English-speaking guide with local area expertise. A porter will also be available to carry your heavy gear (one porter per two participants). If you’re trekking solo, a porter can be hired at an additional cost.

Extra Expenses

During the trek, some services may incur extra charges. These include:

  • Wi-Fi at teahouses (not always available, and connection can be slow)

  • Hot showers and battery charging (usually available for a small fee)

  • Alcoholic beverages and cold drinks are available for purchase, but they are not included in the trek package.

Packing Tips

Make sure to pack lightweight and appropriate clothing for the trek. This includes:

  • Layered clothing for varying temperatures

  • A warm jacket, especially for higher altitudes

  • Waterproof gear (jackets and shoes) in case of rain

  • A small backpack for daily essentials

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the sun at high altitudes

Travel Insurance

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking in the Himalayas. This insurance should include emergency evacuation and medical treatment, as trekking in high-altitude areas can pose risks. Ensure the policy covers high-altitude trekking up to 5,000m.

How to Reach Pokhara

You can easily reach Pokhara from Kathmandu by either a 6-7 hour bus ride or a 30-minute flight. Both options are available daily, with buses being the more budget-friendly choice.

FAQs
  • The best time to trek to Mardi Himal is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and the best views of the Annapurna range, making it ideal for trekking.

  • The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate trek. It’s suitable for beginners and intermediate trekkers who are in good physical condition. The trail involves gradual ascents with some steep sections, but it is not as challenging as other high-altitude treks.

  • Yes, a licensed trekking guide is recommended for the Mardi Himal Trek. A guide will ensure your safety, assist with navigation, provide local insights, and help you deal with any unforeseen challenges on the trail.

  • To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need the ACAP permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and the TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). These permits are necessary for your safety and to preserve the region’s environment.

  • Yes, there are tea houses and lodges available along the route, offering basic but comfortable accommodations. You will have private rooms or dormitory-style rooms depending on availability. Meals are also provided at these lodges.

  • The cost of the Mardi Himal Trek depends on the duration of the trek, the services you choose, and the time of year. Typically, the cost includes accommodation, meals, permits, a guide, and a porter. Additional costs include tips for the guide and porter, extra services like Wi-Fi, and optional hot showers.

  • You should pack lightweight, layered clothing, waterproof gear, good trekking shoes, a warm jacket for higher altitudes, a sleeping bag, and essential toiletries. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first aid kit for safety.

  • Some additional expenses to consider are:

    • Wi-Fi at teahouses (available for a fee)

    • Hot showers and battery charging (at certain teahouses)

    • Alcoholic beverages and cold drinks

    • Tips for your guide and porter

    • Porter (if you need one, at an additional cost)

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