Mardi Himal Trek | Hidden Gem of the Annapurnas
Overview
Mardi Himal is a relatively lesser-known trekking destination in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek is named after Mardi Himal, a 5,587-meter (18,330-foot) peak in the Annapurna range. It offers a quieter and less crowded alternative to some of the more popular treks in the region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit.
Mardi Himal offers a relatively short but rewarding trekking experience, making it suitable for trekkers of various skill levels. Its pristine natural beauty and fewer crowds make it an attractive option for those seeking a more tranquil trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal.
Why Choose Mardi Himal?
- Less Crowded: Escape the busier Annapurna and Everest routes.
- Short & Scenic: Achievable in 9 days with moderate fitness.
- Cultural Blend: Interact with Gurung communities in traditional villages.
FAQs
Q: Is the Mardi Himal Trek suitable for beginners?
A: Yes! Moderate fitness is sufficient, but prepare for steep ascents/descents.
Q: Are teahouses available on this route?
A: Basic teahouses exist from Low Camp onward; fewer facilities than Annapurna Circuit.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Activities: Airport pickup, hotel check-in, Mardi Himal trek preparation, and welcome dinner.
Day 2: Kathmandu Cultural Tour & Trek Prep
- Activities: Explore UNESCO sites (Pashupatinath, Patan Durbar Square), gear check, and briefing.
- Key Sights: Ancient temples, Newari architecture, Kathmandu cultural heritage, trek preparation tips.
Day 3: Fly/Drive to Pokhara (820m)
- Activities: 25-minute flight or 6-hour drive to Pokhara; Lakeside stroll.
- Key Sights: Phewa Lake, Fishtail Mountain views.
Day 4: Drive to Kande (1,770m); Trek to Deurali (2,100m)
- Distance: 4 km trek (3-4 hours) | Drive: 1.5 hours from Pokhara.
- Activities: Begin trek through forests; first views of Annapurna South.
- Elevation Gain: +330m
Day 5: Trek to Forest Camp (2,550m)
- Distance: 8 km (5-6 hours)
- Activities: Walk through rhododendron and oak forests; spot langur monkeys.
- Key Sights: Moss-covered trees, birdwatching opportunities.
Day 6: Forest Camp to Low Camp (3,150m)
- Distance: 7 km (4-5 hours)
- Activities: Emerge above tree line; panoramic mountain vistas.
- Route Highlight: First clear views of Machapuchare.
Day 7: Low Camp to High Camp (3,550m)
- Distance: 6 km (3-4 hours)
- Activities: Traverse alpine meadows; sunset over Annapurna range.
- Key Challenge: Steep sections with rewarding views.
Day 8: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m); Return to Siding Village (1,750m)
- Distance: 14 km (8-9 hours)
- Activities: Pre-dawn hike to Base Camp for sunrise; descend through traditional villages.
Day 9: Drive to Pokhara; Fly/Drive to Kathmandu
- Activities: Scenic drive/flight to Kathmandu; farewell dinner.
What's included
- Two-night accommodation at Hotel Kantipur Village Kathmandu (https://kantipurvillage.com.np/)
- Two-night accommodation at Hotel Elegant Pokhara (https://hotelelegantnepal.com/)
- Kathmandu to Pokhara by Tourist bus(7-8hours)
- Pokhara to Kathmandu by flight (25 min)
- Accommodation in Standard Hotels on a twin-sharing basis during the trek
- Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the trek
- Government-licensed, experienced trek guide, assistant trekking guide (for a group of 10 or more trekkers), and porters to help trekkers' luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers, combined porter weight limit -18kg.)
- First Aids Kit.
- Duffel Bags for porters to carry your main luggage
- Guides' and porters' expenses - meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
- All government, local taxes, and official expenses.
- Rescue operations arrangement in case of complicated health conditions (funded by your travel insurance).
- Farewell dinner at the end of the trek in Kathmandu.
What's not included
- All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
- Extra night accommodations and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
- Personal expenses - shopping, snacks, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, bar bills, bottle or boiled water, shower, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone call, battery recharge costs, extra porters, etc.
- Personal clothing and gear
- Travel insurance that has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory.
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Book Your Mardi Himal Adventure!
📞 +977-9856011727 | ✉️ info@amazingnepaladventure.com
Extend your trip with a paragliding experience in Pokhara!