Mardi Himal Trek - 9 Days

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At a Glance
Duration9 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeModerate
i
Maximum Altitude4200 Meter
Group Size1-12 Person
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
MealB/L/D
AccomodationAs per the itinerary at hotel and local tea houses
Best TimeAll Seasons and Month

Travel east of the world-renowned trekking route, Annapurna Base Camp, and hike to the base of Mardi Himal. The Mardi Himal trek 9 days is a fantastic adventurous trekking package that explores the beauty of the Annapurna region. Fewer trekkers traverse the Mardi Himal trek, making it one of the less crowded and pristine trekking routes in the Himalayas.

On the Mardi Himal trek, you will witness spectacular views of the Annapurna Range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri Range (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), and numerous others. It is an offbeat trek.

The trail winds through dense forests. Spend nights in teahouses in different camps before you reach the highest point of the trek at 4,500 meters (14,764 ft). The journey takes you deep into nature and presents rich biodiversity. The Mardi Himal trek for 9 days is a perfect beginner-friendly trek in Nepal.

Even though the trail is on the offbeat side, trekkers with decent fitness can complete it safely. We can say the Mardi Himal trek is one of the best introductions to off-the-beaten trek in the Himalayas. Likewise, the solitude of the region and the soothing scent of nature will help you unwind and rejuvenate.

Highlights

  • A fantastic adventurous trekking package in the Annapurna region
  • Less crowded and pristine trekking route
  • Witness stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes
  • The trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, oak, bamboo, etc
  • A perfect beginner-friendly trek and a great alternative to famous trekking packages like Ghorepani Poon Hill and ABC
  • The best introductions to off-the-beaten trek in the Himalayas
  • Unwind and rejuvenate enjoying the solitude of the region and the soothing scent of nature
  • Get to see a beautiful sunrise from the Mardi Himal Base Camp
  • Explore lovely villages and witness the mountain lifestyle in Sidding village
  • Explore Kathmandu and Pokhara, two major cities in Nepal

What to expect during the Mardi Himal trek for 9 days?

The Mardi Himal trek starts from Kande. It is located close to Pokhara. From Kande, you will begin trekking to Australian Camp and ascend to Pitam Deurali to spend the night. The trail then enters a dense forest covered with rhododendrons and many other vegetation. Your next stop is Low Camp.

Further, keep trekking through lush forest and pass by Badal Danda before reaching the High Camp. From here, you will climb to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, following a steep ridgeline. Catch a gorgeous sunrise from the base camp along with a breathtaking mountain panorama. Now, it is a downhill walk to Siding.

Upon reaching Siding, you will get a chance to see the mountain lifestyle and interact with the locals. A last downhill trek will take you to Lumre, where the trek ends. From here, drive to Pokhara. Spend the evening in Pokhara, enjoying the tranquility of Phewa Lake and the bustle of the Lakeside Market.

The next day, drive back to Kathmandu. This marks the end of the 9 days of the Mardi Himal trek. The journey will leave you with a content heart and a camera full of stunning pictures. If you wish, you can extend the trek to Khopra Danda or Ghorepani Poon Hill. Whether you are traveling or with your family, our Mardi Himal trek itinerary will not disappoint you.

Who can do the Mardi Himal trekking?

The Mardi Himal trek 9 days is suitable for both beginner and experienced trekkers. If you are looking for a short trek in Nepal in under 10 days, then we highly recommend this package. It is very adventurous and offers heavenly mountain vistas. You do not need previous trekking experience to join the Mardi Himal trek.

Likewise, our Mardi Himal trek 9 days cost is also pocket-friendly. You do not have to think much about joining this trek. Our Mardi Himal trek bookings are open. If you have any questions regarding the Mardi Himal trek cost or want to customize the itinerary, feel free to contact us at info@nepalguidetrekking.com or +977- 982129400.

How to prepare for the Mardi Himal trek in Nepal?

To prepare for the Mardi trek 9 days, walk regularly with a backpack weighing 5 kg. Start with 1 to 2 hours of walking and gradually increase the duration. You have to trek at least 6 hours a day during the venture, so build the habit. Likewise, get involved in activities that will improve your cardio and strength. For instance, you can swim, cycle, run, hike, jog, etc.

Mardi Himal trek 9 days packing

The below list will give you a general idea of what is needed for the Mardi Himal trekking. You can rent expensive gear like sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, etc, in Kathmandu. You do not need to buy everything.

  • Clothes- underwear, normal t-shirts/pants, thermal layer, windbreaker jacket/pant, raincoat, fleece top/bottom, down jacket, dry towel, gloves, scarf, sunhat, beanie, socks, trekking boots, normal slipper/crocs, etc
  • Gear and miscellaneous items- trekking poles, sleeping bag, reusable water bottle, water purification tablets, torch, travelers knife, adapter, power bank, spare batteries, journal, snacks, Nepali cash, travel visa, passport, passport sized photos, trek permits, etc
  • Toiletries and first aid- wet tissues, toilet paper, SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, toothbrush/toothpaste, soap, comb, small mirror, deodorant, band-aid, general medicines, Diamox, pain reliever, etc

Why do the Mardi Himal trek 9 days with Trekking Guide Team Adventure?

Trekking with us allows you to travel safely and confidently. Our professional team handles all the logistics and your requirements for the trek. We provide the most affordable Mardi Himal trek cost in the market with exceptional service. Given our long history of organizing treks and tours in Nepal, you can trust your time, safety, and money with us.

By doing the short Mardi Himal trek 9 days with us, you will get the following benefits:

  • 24/7 support
  • Customize your itinerary anytime and extend your trek
  • Free duffle bag to use during the trek and later return
  • Free pick up and drop off from your hotel in Pokhara
  • No hidden cost or policy
  • Great service and care
  • Safety assurance
  • Ecor-friendly and sustainable trip
  • Native guide and porter
  • Complimentary farewell dinner
Itinerary
Tour PlanExpand All

Representatives from Trekking Guide Team Adventure will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. They will help you with the luggage and transfer you to the hotel. We will use a private vehicle to travel from the airport to the hotel. Spend some time getting fresh and later meet us for trek briefing and preparation.

Accommodation: Hotel

Leaving the bustle of Kathmandu behind, we will drive to Pokhara, the city of lakes. It is a comfortable and scenic ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a tourist standard bus. Along the way, see views of lush hills, rivers, waterfalls, terraced fields, and mountains. In the evening, enjoy sunset at the Phewa Lake and explore the Lakeside Market in Pokhara

Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 7 hoursDistance: 201 km/125 miles

The drive from Pokhara to Kande is beautiful. You will get to enjoy countryside views as well as snow-capped mountains on the way. From Kande, start trekking, following lush hills and forests. The trail will take us to the Australian Camp and from here, continues to Ponthana. On the way, witness great views of the Annapurna range. From Pothana, the trail ascends to Pitam Deurali.

Max Altitude: 2,125 m/6,972 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 40 minutes drive & 3-4 hours trekDistance: 5.5 km/3.4 miles

The trail from Pitam Deurali ascends to Low Camp. After a delicious breakfast, we will begin trekking in the north direction. The trail enters a dense forest covered with rhododendrons and many other vegetation. As the forest is dense and blocks the sun's rays, you will feel cold, so keep warm clothing on hand. Trek enjoying the refreshing scent of the forest and gradually ascend to Low Camp. The view of Mt. Fishtail is fantastic along the way.

Max Altitude: 3,050 m/10,006 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 6.8 km/4.2 miles

Today, the trail ascends above 3,500 meters. From Low Camp, we will trek via a lush forest of oak and rhododendrons. It takes around two hours of trekking to reach Middle Camp from Low Camp. From here, we will climb towards Badal Danda, which offers breathtaking mountain views. The trail goes along the Mardi Himal ride to High Camp. A stunning view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Fishtail, and Mt. Hiunchuli is visible from the High Camp.

Max Altitude: 3,580 m/11,745 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 4 hoursDistance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles

On this day, we will ascend to the highest point of our trek, Mardi Himal Base Camp. Start trekking early, following a narrow, steep trail. The trail ascends along a steep ridge to the base camp. From here, the views of mountains like Annapurna, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and many others are fabulous.

We will spend some time soaking the landscapes and begin trekking back to Low Camp. The trail is the same as before. It is a long descent but does not take the same time that we spent during ascending. From Low Camp, we will further drop down to Siding village. We will get to see the diverse culture and lifestyle of the mountain people in this village.

Max Altitude: 4,500 m/14,764 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: LodgeDuration: 8-9 hoursDistance: 9 km/5.5 miles

Today is our last day of trekking. Leaving Sidin, we will follow a downhill route via the dense forest and small settlements to Lumre. The trek ends here, and we will drive back to Pokhara. The remaining day is free in Pokhara. Rest and explore tourist sites or local markets. Buy souvenirs and dine as per your desire.

Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunchAccommodation: HotelDuration: 5 hoursDistance: 11.3 km/7 miles

Follow the same scenic highway and drive back to Kathmandu. You will reach Kathmandu by mid-afternoon. The guide will drop you at the hotel. Settle in your hotel and rest. You have the remaining day leisure. Visit nearby tourist sites and explore local markets. Explore the streets of Thamel and buy souvenirs. Meet us for the farewell dinner in the late evening.

*Note: If you want to have a full day in Kathmandu, you can opt for a short flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu by paying extra money.

Max Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: HotelDuration: 7 hours driveDistance: 01 km/125 miles

Our airport team will take care of your departure. They will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport on time for your flight.

Meals: Breakfast only
Route Map
Mardi-Himal-Trek-Map
Cost Details
Included
  • 2 night accomodation in Kathmandu at Nivas Boutique home or similar category in twin sharing basis with breakfast.
  • 2 night accomodation at Pokhara splendid view hotel or similar category in twin sharing basis with breakfast.
  • All accommodations during the trek which is run by Nepali family with outside toilet.
  • Main course Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek (vegetarian food)
  • One experienced English-speaking trekking guide and 1 porter for two trekkers (porter carries up to 20 kg in total). if you are a solo traveller porter is not included.
  • All the necessary permits for the trek (TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit)
  • All government taxes included for the trek
  • Trekking starting point Pokhara to Kande and Trekking ending point Lumre to Pokhara in Private vehicle Scorpio or whatever available at that moment.
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu in tourist bus.
  • Airport pick up and drop
  • Insurance for the guide
  • Expenses for guide and porter
  • Our service charge
  • Farewell dinner
  • Duffel bag (to be returned after the trek ends
Excluded
  • The Nepal visa fee, which you will pay upon arrival in Kathmandu
  • Personal equipment for Trekking. (sleeping Bag, down jacket, sun glass, sunscreen, trekking shoes, trekking stick, gloves, some pair t-shit and socks)
  • Personal travel insurance (it must cover helicopter evacuation and medical bills)
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses like drinks, tea, coffee, snacks, soup, desert, applepie, mineral water, cocacola etc (out of our offered three meals a day during the trek)
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • All alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
  • Hot shower, charging, WiFi, etc during the trek
  • Laundry service
  • Internet call
  • Shopping
  • International flight tickets
  • If you do sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley, then the entry fee per person is 26 USD
Add-ons & Options
  • Personal equipment for Trekking. (sleeping Bag, down jacket, sun glass, sunscreen, trekking shoes, trekking stick, gloves, some pair t-shit and socks)
     
  • Extra Night Hotel Accommodation: If you plan to arrive early or depart late please make sure you make extra hotel arrangement.You can mail us at info@nepalguidetrekking.com It is available by adding extra cost.
     
  • Extra Programs: If you want extra programs like taking a flight Kathmandu to Pokhara  to Kathmandu and want travel  by private a car from Kathmandu to Pokhara or 2 night/ 3 days Chitwan  Jungle safari package or 1 Day River Rafting or 1 Day hiking in Kathmandu valley Please contact us on What's App 977-9851229400. It is available by adding extra cost. We will organize it as per your wish and requirement. 
     
  • Porter: For a solo travellers porter is not included. It is available in additional cost USD 150
     
  • Single Supplementary Charge: On our holidays tour/trek packages, rooms or tents are provided in twin sharing basis. Thus, single room supplement charge will be imposed to client who does not have another tour participant to share room/tent with according to your trip. When you are traveling alone, single supplementary charge must be paid.
     
  • Upgrade the transportation to flight: You can upgrade your bus ride to flight at a minimal cost. It will provide you with extra time in the city to explore and rest.
     
  • Private Car: If you are traveling from one city to another, you can hire a private car for a comfortable ride
Dates & Availability
StartsDecember 24, 2024
EndsJanuary 01, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$550
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StartsDecember 26, 2024
EndsJanuary 03, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$550
Book Now
StartsDecember 31, 2024
EndsJanuary 08, 2025
AvailabilityGuaranteed
US$550
Book Now

We have everyday departure. We will organize this trek as per your time schedule. 

Additional Info

Mardi Himal trek permit

The Mardi Himal trek requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit and TIMS Card. The cost of an ACAP permit is Nrs 3000 per person. Likewise, the cost of a TIMS Card is Nrs 2,000 per person. Both permits are included in the package cost. Our team will obtain the permits for you.

Mardi Himal trek difficulty & altitude sickness

The Mardi Himal trek is moderately difficult. The trek route is offbeat and mostly goes through dense forest. Unlike the other trekking routes in the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal trail has less tourist infrastructure. Beginner trekkers can do this trek, however good fitness is required.

The daily walking hours are 5 to 7. The terrain is steep and rugged. The trail before High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp is rocky and requires extra attention. You will cover around 40 - 50 kilometers (28-31 miles) during the Mardi Himal trek. Starting the trek from 1,170 meters (5,807 ft), ascending up to 4,500 meters (14,764 ft).

This high altitude gain on this trek adds to the risk of altitude sickness, so the trekkers have to be careful. As the Mardi Himal trail gradually ascends, an acclimatization day is not needed. If you keep yourself hydrated, get ample sleep, have nutritious food, and maintain your pace, then you can do the Mardi Himal trek without getting altitude sickness.

Is travel insurance needed for the Mardi Himal trek 9 days?

Trekking in remote locations like Mardi Himal requires travel insurance with helicopter evacuation. You may get sick or injured. Even though there is less risk of altitude sickness on this trek, you may suffer from it.

Having travel insurance with air evacuation will protect you in unforeseen circumstances and provide you peace of mind. Travel insurance is not mandatory for the Mardi Himal trek, but we highly encourage our trekkers to buy one.

Accommodation and meals during the trek

The Mardi Himal trek is a lodge trek. The trail is lined with simple lodges that provide accommodation and meals to the trekkers. You will not get anything fancy here. Rooms will be small and twin-shared. Clean bedding is available. We recommend carrying a sleeping bag for more comfort. Private washrooms are not available everywhere.

Likewise, our Mardi Himal trek package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking. You are free to buy additional snacks and drinks apart from these three meals. Have some money on you during the trek to buy snacks and beverages. Dal bhat is the main meal for us.

Other dishes include rice with curries, fried rice, momo, noodles, thukpa, chapati, pasta, sandwiches, porridge, soup, mashed potatoes, pancakes, toast with jam/butter, oatmeal, fruits, etc. Similarly, boiled drinking water is also available in all lodges. You do not have to buy plastic water bottles.

What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal trekking?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best time to do the Mardi Himal trekking because of stable weather and dry trails. The climate remains moderate, with neither too hot nor too cold daytime. It makes trekking lovely. You will get to see thriving vegetation and flowers in these seasons.

The clear sky gives way to stunning mountain views. Many trekkers embark on the journey in these two seasons, so the trail is quite bustling. The temperature ranges from 22°C to 8°C. You will not come across rain or snowfall in spring and autumn. Likewise, trekking in these seasons also increases your chance of seeing Nepali festivals.

If you want to avoid crowds and are looking for a tranquil trail, then trek during the starting of March, May, November, and December. These months see a bit of an unstable weather pattern, but it will not hinder your trek. Make sure you are well packed.

Guide and porter during the Mardi Himal trek

Your Mardi Himal trek journey will be supported by our professional guide and a porter. As per the group size, we provide porters. The guide will make sure you get accommodation without hassle and ensure your safety. As the Mardi Himal trail is offbeat, the guidance of a knowledgeable guide is needed.

You can rely on our guides as they are very trustworthy, friendly, and good travel companions. Likewise, the porter will carry the duffel bags. One porter carries duffel bags of two trekkers up to 20 kg (10 kg each trekkers). Their work is tough for sure, but they can well navigate this weight.

*Note: Tips are highly recommended for guide and porter. If you are happy with their service, make sure to tip them as much as you wish.

Some helpful tips

  • Nepali travel visa: The Nepal travel visa fee is not covered in the package cost. You can get it from the Nepalese Embassy in your country or apply online and obtain it upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport. Check out the Nepal immigration website for more information.
  • Money exchange: You have to use Nepali money while traveling in Nepal. Money exchange centers and banks help you exchange your money. Stay updated with the recent rate. There is no ATM on the Mardi Himal trail, so withdraw ample money to use during the trek in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
  • WiFi/network during the trek: Network coverage is not that good along the Mardi Himal trail, neither is WiFi. A Nepali tourist sim will be much more efficient.
  • Hot showers and charging in the lodge: Hot showers and charging cost a few bucks in the lodges. Hot showers may not be available everywhere, so carry wet wipes. Likewise, pack a power bank and adapter.
  • Allergies: If you have any allergies, let us know. We will do our best to make sure you do not eat any food that you are allergic to. You also have to be careful on your side.
  • Personal expenses: You may come across many personal expenses during the Mardi Himal trekking, so budget accordingly. Keep a 10 to 20 USD budget for each day. Likewise, budget additional money for shopping, tips, travel insurance, international flights, visas, etc.

Consult-with-Trekking-Expert

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FAQs

The Mardi Himal trek can be done in 5 to 12 days. This is our 9 days Mardi Himal trek. We also have a 5 days Mardi Himal trek package. You can also extend the trek and combine other parts of the Annapurna region in the itinerary.

The Mardi Himal is a moderate trek. The trek route is a bit demanding in some sections, but anyone can do this trek if well prepared. Likewise, the altitude sickness risk is also low during the Mardi Himal trek 9 days.

The Mardi Himal trek route is steep and offbeat. Careful navigation is required to avoid injuries. Our expert mountain guide will accompany you during the trek and ensure your safety. Follow his lead and listen to his instructions for a safe trek.

The Mardi Himal trek cost ranges from USD 300 to USD 950 per person. You can customize the package as per your budget with us. The longer your itinerary will be, the more the trip will cost.

The Mardi Himal trek 9 days is not the easiest trek but doable. If you are physically fit and can walk 6 hours a day, you can do this trek without any worries.

From Pokhara, you can complete the Mardi Himal trek in 5 days. The trek starts from Kande and ends in Lumre. Both places are located 1-2 hours drive from Pokhara.

The best months to do the Mardi Himal trek are late February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and early December.

People do the Mardi Himal trek because it offers a less crowded trail, breathtaking mountain vistas, and adventure. It is a great alternative to famous treks like Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp if you wish to escape the crowd.

Usually, trekkers lose 3-4 kg weight at the end of a 12 to 14 day trek in Nepal. However, you will spend only five days trekking during the 9 days of the Mardi Himal trek, so you may not see much of a difference.

No, you cannot do the Mardi Himal trekking without a guide. Trekking without a guide in the Annapurna region was banned in 2023 (April 1st). You need a licensed Nepali guide to obtain a TIMS Card (permit) for the trek.

Yes, it snows in Mardi Himal. The snow falls between December and February. If you love snow and winter beauty, do this trek in the winter season.

Expert Consultation
kabiraj
Talk to Kabiraj+977 9851229400 (Kabiraj)
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Talk to Sujan+977 9841035868 (Sujan)