There are many different routes to take you to Mardi Himal Trek. You can just do the regular trek to Mardi Himal or you can combine with other routes such as Annapurna Base Camp, Khopra Ridge Trek. Depending on the time you have, starting point, ending point, and the level of physical fitness, the duration of the trek can be from 5 to 13 days.
Mardi Himal combined with Annapurna Base Camp trek offers a close view of the mountains above 8,000m, glorious sceneries, and the warm hospitality of Gurung people. Also, the trek can be combined with Khopra Ridge Camp which is the picturesque and unspoiled trek in the Annapurna region that presents not only the snowy peaks but also the Khayer Lake which holds mythological importance.
Mardi Himal Trek, also called the Eco-Tourism, is one of the well-known and off the beaten path trek in the Annapurna Region and is situated east of Modi Khola across the valley from Hiunchuli. This trek takes you through the breathtaking glacial valleys, dense rhododendron forest, and warm hospitality of the local groups and stunning views of the majestic mountains such as Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Fishtail (6,993m), and many other peaks.
The whole experience is overwhelming and a lifetime opportunity to witness sunset and sunrise amidst the mountains, explore green hills, and snowy peaks and walk through the dense forest.
Table of Contents
Major Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
1. Amazing views of the mountains:
Mardi Himal Trek offers you a close view of the peaks such as Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Fishtail (6,993m), and many other peaks. The less crowded trail lets you experience the real wilderness and get the mesmerizing views in the Annapurna region. This experience with amazing landscapes and majestic mountains on the backdrop will make your trek like a dream come true.
2. Overwhelming destination:
Opened for trekker in 2012, Mardi Himal Trek has instantly become the dream destination for trekkers. The trails take you around the Annapurna Sanctuary and give you a gorgeous view of the mountains. Not to forget, you pass through the amazing beauty of dense forest and settlements.
3. Exotic natural beauty:
The trek starts from Kathmandu( depending on your itinerary) and takes you to Pokhara and other places till you reach the base of Mardi Himal. Along the way, you will explore the incomparable beauty of Pokhara, walk through the dense rhododendron forest, villages and enjoy the beautiful sunset/sunrise from the viewpoints.
4. Forest Camp:
The trek takes you through the trails of forest camp and along the rhododendron, oak, maple forest. The forest camp is at an elevation of 2,600m which makes it an amazing destination to be at. Here, you wander and explore the wilderness and watch the beautiful peaks in front of you.
5. Warm hospitality:
Enjoy the warm hospitality of the ethnic communities as you move forward on the trails. This trek offers you cultural homestay as you move forward in the Annapurna region. It lets you experience the typical rural lifestyle of the people. The trail passes through the villages with Brahmins, Gurung, Tamang which reflects their cultural uniqueness. You can stroll around the settlements and pass through the suspension bridges. Truly, this place is a paradise even with limited facilities.
6. Low and High Base camp:
The lower base camp offers you a great variety of shrubs, clouded forests, and amazing views of the peaks leading to Annapurna Sanctuary. You can climb up to 16,000ft walls of ice fields and blue glaciers.
Upper Base camp (3,580m) has short steep climbs and the views of the Annapurna range are breathtaking and get the perfect view from the top of the Mardi Himal trek.
Five Trek Routes to Mardi Himal
You can choose your best options for the trek from the following itineraries:
1. Mardi Himal Trekking – Easy Short Trek From Pokhara – 5 Days
Trip facts:
💠 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
💠 Maximum Altitude: 4,500m/14,760ft
💠 Start From: Pokhara
💠 Finish At: Pokhara
Mardi Himal Trekking from Pokhara lets you experience the close-up and overwhelming view of Machapuchare and other peaks such as Dhaulagiri Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. This trek offers an exhilarating trek with the gorgeous backdrop of the mountains, dense forest, and cultural beauty of ethnic groups.
The trek starts and ends at Pokhara. Drive to Kimche and trek to Forest Camp and High Camp. Get the unfathomable views of the peaks and hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. Descend back to Low Camp and Kande before driving back to Pokhara.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft) then Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft.) Duration: 2:30 hrs (55 km) drive, 2 hours (3 km) trek |
| Day 2 | Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m/8,531ft ) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours (15 km) trek |
| Day 3 | Trek to High Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours (8.5 km) trek |
| Day 4 | Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,760ft) then Trek to Low Camp (3,050m/10,006ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 5 | Trek to Kande (1,706m/5,596ft) then drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) |
2. Mardi Himal Trek – 7 Days
Trip Facts:
💠 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
💠 Maximum Altitude: 4,500m/14,760ft
💠 Start From: Kathmandu
💠 Finish At: Kathmandu
Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu lets you get a close-up view of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and walk through dense rhododendron forest and a real Himalayan experience.
This trek starts and ends in Kathmandu. You will drive from Pokhara to Kimche and trek to Ghandruk, a Gurung village, where you can get the experience of rural lifestyle and cultural cuisine. Ascend to Forest Camp and High Camp till you reach Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Experience the picturesque landscape and majestic view of the mountains. Descend to Low Camp, Kande, and Kathmandu via Pokhara.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) Drive |
| Day 2 | Drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft) then trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft.) Duration: 2:30 hrs (55 km) drive, 2 hours (3 km) trek |
| Day 3 | Trek from Ghandruk to Forest Camp (2,600m/8,531ft ) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours (15 km) trek |
| Day 4 | Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours (8.5 km) trek |
| Day 5 | Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,760ft) and trek to Low Camp (3,050m/10,006ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 6 | Trek from Low Camp to Kande (1,706m/5,596ft) and drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 3-4 hours (12.5 km) trek, 1-hour (27 km) drive |
| Day 7 | Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) Drive |
3. Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek – 11 Days
Trip Facts:
💠 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
💠 Maximum Altitude: 4,500m/14,760ft
💠 Start From: Pokhara
💠 Finish At: Pokhara
Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara offer a chance to explore two base camps in the Annapurna Region and experience the Annapurna Sanctuary upfront.
The trek starts and ends in Pokhara. Take a scenic drive to Ghandruk and trek to Chhomrong, Bamboo, and reach Annapurna Base Camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Descend back to Bamboo, Jhinu Danda to relax at natural hot spring. Ascend to Forest Camp and High Camp till you reach Mardi Himal Base Camp for an unforgettable view of the peaks. Retrace to Kande and drive to Pokhara.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft) and trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft.) Duration: 2:30 hrs (55 km) drive, 2 hours (3 km) trek |
| Day 2 | Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2,170m/7,119ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (10 km) trek |
| Day 3 | Trek from Chhomrong to Bamboo (2,310m/7,579ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (7 km) trek |
| Day 4 | Trek from Bamboo to Deurali (3,230m/10,597ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours (8.5 km) trek |
| Day 5 | Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m/12,139ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours (8 km) trek |
| Day 6 | Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m/7,579ft) Walking Distance: 7–8 hours (16.5 km) trek |
| Day 7 | Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,760m/5,774ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (9 km) trek |
| Day 8 | Trek from Jhinu Danda to Forest Camp (2,600m/8,531ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 9 | Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours (8.5 km) trek |
| Day 10 | Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,760ft) and Trek to Low Camp(3,050m/10,006ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 11 | Trek to Kande (1,706m/5,596ft) and drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 3-4 hours (12.5 km) trek, 1-hour (27 km) drive |
4. Mardi Himal and Khopra Ridge Trek – 12 Days
Trip Facts:
💠 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠 Difficulty Level: Moderate
💠 Maximum Altitude: 4,500m/14,760ft
💠 Start From: Kathmandu
💠 Finish At: Kathmandu
Mardi Himal and Khopra Ridge Trek offer you to experience two stunning treks in the Annapurna region in just 12 days. This off the beaten path trek has gained popularity in recent years which offers the natural wilderness, gorgeous views of the peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna, and other peaks, and landscapes and warm hospitality of the ethnic communities.
The trek starts and ends in Kathmandu. Start a scenic drive to Kande via Pokhara and trek to High Camp and to the Mardi Himal Base camp where you get a close view of Mardi Himal and Machapuchare.
Descend to low camp and to Ghandruk to enjoy the 360 views of the Annapurna range. Spend your day at Khopra Danda and enjoy the day tour to Khayer Lake, a sacred lake for Hindus.
Continue to descend to Swanta village, Ghorepani, Poon Hill to enjoy the panoramic views of the snowy peaks. Finally, drive back to Kathmandu via Pokhara.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 6-7 hours (200 km) Drive |
| Day 2 | Drive to Kande, trek to Forest Camp (2,600m/8,531ft) Duration: 1 hours’ drive,6-7 hours trek |
| Day 3 | Trek to High Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours (8.5 km) trek |
| Day 4 | Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,760ft) – Trek to Low Camp (3,050m/10,006ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 5 | Trek to Ghandruk (1,565m/5134ft) Walking Distance: 6-7 hours (13 km trek |
| Day 6 | Trek to Dobato (3,350m/10,990ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (12 km) trek |
| Day 7 | Trek to Khopra Danda (3,660m/12,006ft) Walking Distance: 6–7 hours (11 km) trek |
| Day 8 | Rest Day at Khopra Danda – Trek to Khayer Lake (4,500m/14,762ft) Walking Distance: 9–10 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 9 | Trek to Swanta Village (2,214m/7,263ft) Walking Distance: 4–5 hours (9.6 km) trek |
| Day 10 | Trek to Ghorepani (2,874m/9,429ft) Walking Distance: 4–5 hours (6 km) trek |
| Day 11 | Hike to Poon Hill – Trek to Hile (1,480m/4,855ft)- Drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 2:30 hours (52 km) drive, 5-6 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 12 | Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) Duration: 6-7 hours (200 km) Drive |
5. Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek – 13 Days
Trip Facts:
💠 Activities: Trekking & Hiking
💠 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
💠 Maximum Altitude: 4,500m/14,760ft
💠 Start From: Kathmandu
💠 Finish At: Kathmandu
Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek is a combined package of 13 days where you trek to the Annapurna Base camp and then to the less crowded trails of Mardi Himal. This is an incomparable Himalayan journey where you get to stand in front of the Annapurna range, enjoy the flora and fauna along the trails and explore the rural lifestyle of the ethnic communities.
This trek begins in Kathmandu and takes you on a scenic drive to Pokhara and Kimche. Trek to Ghandruk, Chhomrong, Deurali, and finally to Annapurna Base camp via Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
Descend to Jhinu Danda to relax at natural hot spring and trek to Forest camp and High camp. Next, ascend to the Mardi Himal Base camp for a close-up view of Fish-tail Peak. Descend to Low Camp and then to Kande and drive back to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Outline Itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) Drive |
| Day 2 | Drive from Pokhara to Kimche (1,610m/5,281ft) – Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft.) Duration: 2:30 hours (55 km) drive, 2 hours (3 km) trek |
| Day 3 | Trek to Chhomrong (2,170m/7,119ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (10 km) trek |
| Day 4 | Trek to Bamboo (2,310m/7,579ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (7 km) trek |
| Day 5 | Trek to Deurali (3,230m/10,597ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours (8.5 km) trek |
| Day 6 | Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,550ft) via Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3700m/12,139ft) Walking Distance: 4-5 hours (8 km) trek |
| Day 7 | Trek to Bamboo (2,310m/7,579ft) Walking Distance: 7–8 hours (16.5 km) trek |
| Day 8 | Trek to Jhinu Danda/Hot Spring (1,760m/5,774ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (9 km) trek |
| Day 9 | Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m/8,531ft) Walking Distance: 5-6 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 10 | Trek to High Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) Walking Distance: 3-4 hours(8.5 km) trek |
| Day 11 | Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,760ft) Trek to Low Camp(3,050m/10,006ft) Walking Distance: 7-8 hours (13 km) trek |
| Day 12 | Trek to Kande (1,706m/5,596ft) then drive to Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) Duration: 3-4 hours (12.5 km) trek, 1-hour (27 km) drive |
| Day 13 | Drive from Pokhara (800m/2,625ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) Duration: 6-7 Hours (200 km) Drive |
Mardi Himal Trek FAQs
1. What are the permits needed for Mardi Himal Trek?
For Mardi Himal Trek, the two trekking permits are Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP) and Trekker Information Management System (TIMS). These are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara at Tourist Information Center.
2. How much do I have to walk on a normal trekking day?
You will have to walk for an average of 5-6 hours per day below 3000m. As you go to a higher altitude, the average walking hour per day will be 3-5 hours. The walking hours may differ as per the condition but you should not exceed walking 6 hours per day. The trek is graded easy to moderate. Thus you have to have moderate fitness to ascend and descend the steep trails.
3. How are the Mardi Himal Trekking routes?
Mardi Himal Trekking is moderate with narrow trails, steep ascend, and long walks. These trails will take you through the rhododendron forests, beautiful villages and give you the breath-taking views of the peaks. Also, depending on your choice of routes, you will pass through different settlements and attractions along the way.
4. Should I be worried about altitude sickness?
Mardi Himal Trek is in 4500m from sea level, thus people might have problems with the altitude. However, safety precautions, medical kits should be ready. Also, the key is not to stay overnight at an altitude of over 3500m, so it is better to acclimatize your body properly.
5. Can I do Mardi Himal Trekking with a child?
Yes, Mardi Himal trek can be done with a child; many families have already done this with their children. Make sure your child is expressive enough in case he/she feels altitude sickness or has any difficulties.
6. How is the food on the Mardi Himal Trek?
During the trek, the food items would be limited to choose from. You will generally be served typical Nepal courses that are produced by the farmers. Since, you will be burning calories as you trek higher, make sure you stay hydrated.
7. What are the accommodations facilities like on the trek?
The sort of accommodation depends on your budget. The accommodation in the trekking region is good with facilities of electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot showers. As you reach maximum altitude, the lodges are limited and you have to adjust with sharing rooms, use buckets for hot water and sleep on a foam mattress.
8. Can the Mardi Himal Trek be done by Solo trekkers?
Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek can be done by the solo trekkers. However, due to unstable weather, less crowded areas, difficulties in finding routes, and uncertainties, it can become risky for solo trekkers.
9. Are there any ATMs in the higher altitude?
No, there are no ATMs in the high altitude trekking route. So, it is advisable to carry Nepalese Rupees cash with you.
10. Do I need to hire a guide?
Mardi Himal is a short trek in the Annapurna region that goes through dense forest. Trekkers who are traveling in this region for the first time may lose their way. So, it is suitable to hire a licensed guide for safety.
11. How to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu?
Depending on your preference, budget, and time, you can opt for 3 ways to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu. You can use a tourist bus that leaves every morning at 7 and is the cheapest means of transport.
You can hire a jeep or private car or van where you can get the flexibility of stopping by wherever you like.
For the fastest and expensive means, you can choose to take a 25- minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara that is available every day.
12. What is the best time to do Mardi Himal Trek?
The best time for trekking in Nepal is during the spring and autumn season. Thus, the best time for Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring and autumn. These seasons offer you clear and amazing views of the snowy peaks. The temperature and weather are suitable, thus you can expect a large crowd in these seasons.
In winter, the temperature falls below 0 degree Celsius, and are covered with snow. Thus, it is advisable to carry heavy boots and warm clothes for trekking.
Conclusion
An amazing journey in the serenity of the Annapurna region, Mardi Himal trek provides trekkers with overwhelming views of the landscape with snowy peaks on the background. This is truly a dream come true moment for trekkers who imagined closely facing the peaks.
The unforgettable experience of the landscapes, peaks, hospitality, and views attracts more trekkers from all around the world. This easy and short trek is the golden key of the Annapurna that is why it is gaining popularity in a much shorter period.
Do not miss out on a journey that will offer you the natural and cultural beauty of the Annapurna region in a short time. If you wish you know more about the trek or have confusions, then please fill out the form below with your queries and we shall get back to you in no time or you can contact us via the number given on the site.