Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek costs USD 790 for the 10-day journey with an exclusive discount. However, the cost varies on various factors, including the duration of the trip, chosen route, group size, and level of luxury preferred. However, here are the things to consider about the cost of Mardi Himal Trek:

Guide or Porter Service  & Tipping

Guide and porter are valuable assistance for the journey to Nepal’s Himalayas. While hiring them is not mandatory for the Mardi trek, hiring one can be beneficial. Guide and Porter charge daily, costing $20–$30 per day for Guide and $22–$27 per day for Porter. Likewise, their cost depends on group size, duration of trip, and season. Further, tipping them is a personal choice as it is a gesture of gratitude for their assistance at the end of the journey.

Extra Cost According to the Facilities & Amenities

The Mardi Himal trek costs vary and are extra depending on the facilities and amenities chosen. Generally, the trip package covers almost all services required for the trek. Yet, some trekkers prefer luxurious service with more comfortable accommodations, meals, and transportation options. Thus, if trekkers prefer something more than what is included in the package, they should pay extra accordingly.

Transportation Cost

To reach the starting point of the Mardi Himal, trekkers should take transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Pokhara to Kande. To get to Pokhara from Kathmandu, trekkers can choose between ground transportation and a flight. Likewise, travelers can choose between local buses and jeeps from Pokhara to Kande. The transportation cost also affects the trip’s overall price.

Mardi Himal Trek is an exceptional journey through the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek is one of the shortest and most rewarding journeys that takes trekkers to the base of the majestic Mardi Himal (5,587m). Here is what trekkers can expect during the Mardi Himal Trek:

Accesbile Trek

If you are looking for an accessible trek in Nepal’s Himalayas, look no further, as Mardi Himal Trek is an ideal option. The short duration, well-maintained trails, moderate altitude, and manageable daily hours and distance make the trek most accessible and suit most age groups. Further, the trek suits beginners and doesn’t demand high fitness.

Less Crowded

One of the obvious things trekkers can expect during the Mardi Himal route is fewer crowds. Unlike other popular trips, including the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal Trek is less crowded. One of the primary reasons for the destination’s less crowds is its late recognition, having opened in 2011 as a trekking destination. Yet, its less crowds make it an ideal destination for those seeking a solitude experience.

Unique Trek

The Mardi Himal trek is unique due to its short yet rewarding nature. Likewise, the trek is unique for offering eye-appealing views of mountain peaks, including Annapurna South(7219m), Hiunchuli(6441m), Dhaulagiri(8167m), and Machhapuchhre (6993m), without trekking in high altitude and within a short time. Further, the less-traveled route, diverse landscape, stunning views, culture, and flexibility make the trek unique.

Breathtaking scenery of mountains

No doubt the trek to Himalayan peaks offers breathtaking scenery of mountains. Thus, trekkers can expect to witness the astonishing sight of the mountain ranges throughout the trek. Mount Macchapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself will accompany trekkers throughout the journey. Likewise, trekkers can expect to get a glimpse of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.

Easy Permit Process

Unlike the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the permit process for the Mardi Himal is easier than other treks in the Annapurna region. Thus, trekkers can easily get a permit for the Mardi Himal without any hassle. Likewise, trekkers can obtain the permit for the trek directly through the Nepal Tourism Board or via a trekking agency.

Sunrises and Sunsets

Sunrise and sunset are the two amazing sights trekkers can expect during their journey to Mardi Himal. Every morning, trekkers wake up to the crisp air of Himalayan and have their morning meal while witnessing the amazing sunrise. Likewise, trekkers reach their day’s destination by 4:00 pm and can enjoy the stunning sunset each day as well. Further, trekkers can witness a jaw-dropping sunrise from the Mardi Himal Base camp. Still, adding the trek with the Poon Hill trek is another way to witness a fabulous sunrise view.

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) are two required permits for the Mardi Himal Trek. The permits must be obtained before embarking on the trek, and without a permit, trekkers can’t legally complete the trek.

As the journey to Mardi Himal takes place within the conservation area of Annapurna, obtaining ACAP is mandatory. Likewise, TIMS is the mandatory trekking permit in most destinations to ensure the trekker’s safety. The cost of the ACAP and TIMS are as follows:

Cost of Annapurna Conservation Area Permit:

Cost of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS ) Card

The journey to Mardi Himal begins with a drive or flight to Pokhara, as trekkers must get to Pokhara first to start their way toward Mardi. Thus, getting to Pokhara is the initial phase of the journey. Ground transportation and airways are the two ways to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu. While ground transportation is cheaper than airways, airplane flights are easier and more convenient. Further, it takes 6-7 hours by road, covering 200km, and just 25 minutes by flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, covering 126.40 mi.

The actual adventure to Mardi Himal begins from Pokhara. Travelers generally spend a night at Pokhara, enjoying the city’s nightlife. The next day, travelers take either a local bus or a shared jeep to get to the starting point of the trek, Kande. The distance from Pokhara to Kande is  26 kilometers, taking 1 hour by local bus and 45 minutes by shared jeep. The trekking begins from Kande, passing through Australian Camp, Potana, Deurali, Low Camp, and High Camp, and reaches Mardi Himal Base camp. Further, the overall distance from Pokhara to Mardi is 31km.

The starting point of the Mardi Himal depends on the route and chosen itinerary. Yet, the classic route starts from Kande and passes through Australian Camp, Deurali, Low Camp, and High Camp villages before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp. Afterward, the trek returns via Sidhing, Low Camp, and drives to Pokhara via Mardipul. Further, the route covers 42km on a round trip.

Furthermore, other routes to the Mardi Himal are equally enchanting and enjoyable. Another popular route to the Mardi Himal starts from Landruk village and ends at Siding, covering 30.5km. Likewise, another route option starts at Gandruk and ends at Siding, covering 35km. Further, another long route to the Mardi Himal starts at Gandruk and ends at Kande, covering 52km on a round trip.

The duration of the Mardi Himal Trek depends on the chosen itinerary. However, the Mardi Himal is a short trek in Nepal that can be completed within 3 days. However, the duration can be a hassle due to the short time needed. Still, Nepal Base Camp Treks can customize your itinerary based on your time availability and how long you want to spend in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Furthermore, the classic route to Mardi Himal takes 57km on a round trip, starting from Kande and ending at Siding. Yet, the trek can be combined with other popular destinations, including Ghorepani Poon Hill, Ghandruk, and Annapurna Base Camp. Thus, the duration extends if trekkers want to combine the Mardi Himal Trek with other destinations.

Routes Option for Mardi Himal Trek

Classic Route (7-9 days)

Route:

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara

Day 2: Drive to Kande and trek to Potana via Australian Camp

Day 3:  Trek to Kokar Forest Camp via Deurali

Day 4: Trek to Low Camp

Day 5: Trek to High Camp

Day 6: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp

Day 7: Trek to Siding via Low Camp

Day 8: Drive back to Pokhara via Mardipul

Day 9: Drive back to Kathmandu

Short Route (3 to 5 days)

Route:

Day 1: Drive to Dhampus and trek to Forest Camp

Day 2: Trek to High Camp

Day 3: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and trek to Siding

Transportation Option

From Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Flight: Takes 25 minutes and costs USD 100-150 (luxury option)
• Tourist Bus: Takes 6-7 hours and costs USD 10-15
• Private Vehicle: Takes 5-6 hours and costs USD 100-120

From Pokhara to Kande/ Landruk

• Private Jeep/ Vehicle: Cost USD 15-50 and takes 45 minutes
• Local bus: Cost USD 5-10

Of course, participating in the same activities every day makes you monotonous. However, you’ll even enjoy performing the same task when the daily reward is mind-blowing. On the trek to Mardi Himal, trekkers will also be involved in the same task daily, with the same hours of walking, waking up, having meals, and going to bed. Yet, each day comes with different rewards and stunning views, requiring trekkers to be involved in the same task daily.

A typical day in the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek starts with waking up in the fresh air of the Himalayas. Trekkers get their morning meal at around 6:30 am; by 7:00 am, they’ll leave for their day’s destination. Enjoying the majesty of nature at each step, trekkers start walking through the lush area of the rhododendron forest accompanied by snow-covered peaks. After walking for about 3 hours, they reach the lunch point, where they’ll rest and acclimate.

After lunch, trekkers continue their trek with more enchanting and challenging sections. By 4:00 p.m., trekkers reach the day’s accommodation point, the tea house. As they reach the day’s destination, they check in, freshen up, and enjoy witnessing the beauty of the area. By 7:00 p.m., they get their lunch, and by 8-9 p.m., they go to bed. Further, each day’s walking time is 5-6 hours, depending on the route and itinerary.

Due to being one of Nepal’s shortest and beginner-friendly treks, the Mardi Himal doesn’t require a high level of preparation. But, it doesn’t mean trekkers shouldn’t be prepared; instead, it means that trekkers don’t require as much preparation for Mardi as they need for Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit Trek. Still, here are the aspects of preparation for Mardi Himal Trek:

Physical Preparation

Physical preparation is the primary aspect trekkers should be aware of while planning to trek in Mardi Himal. However, the trek doesn’t demand any technical sections. Being physically fit helps navigate the remote location with steep ascent and descent sections. Further, trekkers should be involved in hiking or cardio exercises to build endurance and leg strength before 1-2 months of trek.

Mental Preparation

Physical and Mental preparation are like two wheels of a cart. Without mental preparation, only physical preparation will not help trekkers succeed in the trek and vice versa. Thus, being mentally prepared is equally important as being physically prepared. Mental preparation involves positive self-talk and mindset, visualizing success on the trail, accepting the challenges, and practicing meditation.

Travel insurance protects travelers traveling in Nepal’s Himalayas against unexpected circumstances. Thus, trekkers going on a Mardi Himal must be prepared with travel insurance for their own peace of mind. However, before purchasing travel insurance, travelers should consider the following things:

• It should cover medical Emergencies and Evacuation.
• It should cover your trip cancellation due to sickness, physical injury, or any unavoidable circumstances.
• It should pay for the remaining trip if it is not completed for any reason.
• It should cover lost, stolen, or damaged luggage.
• It should pay for accommodation and food if the flight is delayed for several hours.

Both Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a spectacular journey through the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering the surreal beauty of nature’s majesty. Although both destinations lie in the same region and offer stunning beauty of nature, they differ in terms of their route, terrains, duration, cost, and difficulty level:

Route

As Annapurna Base Camp lies in north-central Nepal and Mardi Base Camp lies east of ABC, it is obvious that the routes of both destinations differ. The Mardi Himal trek generally begins from Khande and passes through Australian Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp. On the other hand, the journey to Annapurna Base Camp starts from Nayapul and goes through Tikhedhunga, Ghorepani, Tadapani, Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali, and Macchapuchhre Base Camp before reaching Annapurna’s Base Camp.

Terrains

Due to differences in route, the terrain to Mardi and Annapurna Base Camp also varies. The terrain of Mardi Himal mainly involves forested trails, alpine meadows, and ridges. The trail is also relatively narrow and steep in some sections. Further, the terrain of Annapurna Base Camp is a mix of stone steps, forested areas, river crossings, and glacial moraines.

Duration

While the Mardi Himal trek is shorter, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is longer. The trek to Mardi Himal takes 5-7 days, and Annapurna takes 8-12 days. Yet, both itineraries are customizable and can be customized per the trekker’s need and time availability.

Expense

The cost of the Mardi Himal trek and Annapurna Base Camp trek varies depending on factors such as the length of the trip, chosen itinerary, group size, and preference for specific luxury. However, the Mardi Himal trek costs USD 500-800, and the Annapurna Base Camp trek costs USD 500-1500.

Difficulty Level

Both Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal are beginner-friendly and suit trekkers with a general level of fitness. However, both treks come with a set of challenges, making each trek difficult on its own. Still, the Mardi Himal trek is slightly more challenging due to its higher elevation. Further, Mardi Himal is difficult due to its steep ascents and high ridges. Thus, both treks possess some challenges, and being physically fit helps to complete both treks smoothly.

Yes, you can combine the Mardi Himal Trek with the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. In fact, the combination is preferred by trekkers who want to experience the beauty of both treks on a single trip. Although the starting and ending duration varies on the chosen itinerary, the combined trip covers most of the stunning landscape of the Annapurna Conservation area.

Furthermore, one of the popular routes to Mardi Himal, combined with the Annapurna Base Camp trek, starts with a drive to Dhampus from Pokhara and a trek toward Forest Camp. Passing through Forest and High Camp, trekkers get to Mardi Himal Base Camp on the third day. On the same day, trekkers return to Badal Danda. On the fourth day, trekkers will be taken to Landruk village, and Sinuwa on the fifth day. Passing through Deurali and Macchapucchre Base Camp, trekkers get to Annapurna Base Camp on the seventh day of the journey. After eight days, the journey returns to Pokhara via Bamboo, Jhinu Danda, and Siwai.

Proper packing of gear and equipment is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek. The weather of the Himalayas changes frequently, demanding proper gear preparation. Thus, here is the essential gear list for the Mardi Himal trek to help with your problem of overpacking and underpacking:

Clothing

• Down Jacket
• Thermal base layer set
• Fleece or down jacket
• Hiking pants
• Hiking T-shirt
• Lightweight thermal tops
• Microfleece Buff
• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Hiking shorts’
• Quick drying underwear
• sun and woolen hat
• Sports bra for ladies
• Gloves

Footwear

• Hiking Boot
• Woolen shocks
• Sandel

Other gear and equipment

• Duffel bag
• Day pack
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping bag

Other accessories

• Water Bootle
• Water purification tablet
• Trash bag
• charger
• Power bank
• Map
• Cash
• Camera
• Headlight

Personal items

• Toiletries
• Personal medications
• First aid kit
• Quick drying towel

Documents

• Passport and visa
• Travel Insurance
• Permits

Hiring a guide and porter for the Mardi Himal trek depends on the trekker’s personal preference and level of experience. If you are an experienced trekker with proper trekking experience and good physical fitness, you don’t require a guide to assist you. However, if you’re a first-time trekker with no prior trekking experience and less physical fitness, hiring an experienced guide through a registered trekking agency is recommended.

Furthermore, hiring a porter is the best decision if you want someone to carry your backpack and want to trek freely. Yet, if you are confident that you can take the backpack by yourself, you can trek without a porter. However, hiring a guide and porter is a personal choice; hiring them is highly recommended as they help you through your expedition and will be your companion.

Money Exchange

Exchanging your money with Nepalese currency is crucial while going for a trek in Nepal. As trekking mostly takes place in remote locations where ATMs and money exchange centers are not available, carrying Nepali cash is mandatory. Moreover, trekkers must exchange their money either in Kathmandu or Pokhara, as the facilities are available only in those cities and are not available as you move further from Pokhara.

Visa

A visa is mandatory to stay in Nepal and participate in the Mardi Himal Trek. Trekkers can obtain the visa either online or at the Tribhuvan International Airport on arrival. A valid passport for at least six months is crucial for applying for the visa. Moreover, the cost of the visa varies depending on the number of days travelers stay in Nepal.

While trekking in the Mardi Himal, Fishtail Mountain, commonly known as “Mount Machhapuchree,” is a prominent landmark. At 6,993m above sea level, Mt.Fishtail is the Annapurna region’s most iconic and sacred peak. While trekking through the trail to Mardi Himal, mount Macchapuchhre overshadows the sky and offers spectacular views throughout the trip. Similarly, the mountain provides a close-up view of the majestic Fishtail mountain.

Furthermore, climate change has affected the Himalayan region, including Fishtail and the Mardi Himal trekking route. The rising temperatures have led to the melting of glaciers around the mountain ranges. Likewise, trekkers experience sudden changes in weather, including snowfall, storms, and rainfall on the route to Mardi Himal.

Similarly, the ice-covered sections of the mountains are decreasing, leading to reduced snowfall and changing the overall look of the mountain. Moreover, the increased rockfall and avalanches, change in weather patterns, and impact on biodiversity are other effects of climate change on the Mardi Himal route and the iconic Fishtail Mountain.

Reliable Travel Agency

Nepal Base Camp Treks is one of the most reliable travel agencies in Nepal. Our years of experience have provided us with expertise in developing and managing trips, ensuring excellent service. Likewise, we work with reliable partners, including top accommodation points, transportation, and travel teams, providing high-quality service at each step. Moreover, our customer satisfaction record and competitive cost are proof of our reliability as a travel agency.

Your Curated Itinerary

Another feature that makes us different from others is our curated itinerary. We let our clients tailor their itineraries per their preferences, fitness levels, and availability. Likewise, we design an itinerary plan based on travelers’ preferences, whether they want adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a combination of all.  Further, our itineraries are carefully planned with detail, offer flexible options, and are time and effort-saving.

Safety First

Our client’s safety is our top priority, as they are not just our clients but also family members. From the time you land in Nepal to the time you return to your country, we ensure we take care of you and won’t let you feel homesick. Likewise, our experienced guides, itinerary with planned acclimatization, and emergency preparedness ensure your safety all along the trek.

Booking the Mardi Himal Trek with Nepal Base Camp Treks is hassle-free and straightforward. You can contact us directly via email, phone, or WhatsApp, whatever works best for you. Our friendly team is always here to help with any questions you might have.

Prefer to book online? No problem! Head to the private booking section on our website to secure your spot.

Email:info@nepalbasecamptreks.com

Phone: +9779851111874