Mardi Himal Trek - 12 Days

based on 2 reviewsRecommended by 99% travelers
Mardi Himal Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration12 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Max. Altitude 4,500 m. /14763.78 ft
  • Activity Trekking
  • Trip Type Tea-House
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Guiding Method English
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn

Highlights

  • The Mardi Himal Trek offers stunning views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.
  • This trek provides a quieter and less-crowded alternative to other popular trails in the Annapurna region.
  • The trail features diverse landscapes, lush rhododendron forests, and unique Himalayan flora and fauna.
  • Trekkers can experience the rich culture, traditions, and hospitality of the local Gurung and Magar communities.
  • The trek can be customized for both short and long itineraries to suit different timeframes and fitness levels.
  • This trek connects to other famous trails, serving as a gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a quieter, less crowded route with beautiful scenery and local cultural experiences. This trek takes you through stunning landscapes and gives you a chance to learn about life in the mountains. It is named after the long ridge on the southern side of Mt. Machhapuchhare, also called Fishtail, known for its unique triangular shape and striking summit.

The beautiful Mardi skyline can even be seen from the peaceful Phewa Lake in Pokhara. Located at the southernmost high point of the Annapurna mountain range, this trek offers amazing views of the central Himalayas, including five of the world’s 14 highest peaks. The Mardi Himal Trek is perfect for adventure lovers looking for a new trail with breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, and the rich culture of the local people.

Our 12 days Mardi Himal Trek starts at Suiket Phedi near Pokhara and climbs to Dhampus, where you will enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhare (6,997 m) and the Annapurna ranges. The peaceful trail goes along ridges through forests of birch, rhododendron, hemlock, and pine trees. As you walk, you will see the towering peaks of Machhapuchhare and Annapurna South, while the Mardi Khola River flows gently through the valley below.

Along the way, you will have plenty of chances to explore and enjoy nature. The trek ends in Pokhara, where you can relax and reflect on your unforgettable experiences before flying back to Kathmandu.

Many trekkers have been seen wanting to extend their trip to explore more, especially in the Annapurna region. To make this possible, Himalayan Joy Adventure lets clients choose how long they want to spend on the trek, with options ranging from a short five-day trip to a longer two-week journey.

Bookings for 2025 are now open! Please contact us for more information or to customize your trip to fit your schedule, budget, and preferences.

Why is Mardi Himal Trek so popular?

Mardi Himal is a relatively new trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, officially opened for trekkers around 2012. It has become especially popular among domestic and international adventurers because it offers a chance to experience the beauty of the Himalayas in a short amount of time. Here are some reasons why people love this trek:

Many Camps Along the Trail

The trek has plenty of camps where trekkers can rest and enjoy the views. These camps provide basic services to make your stay comfortable. Some notable camps include Australian Camp, which has the most tea houses, and Babal Dada Low Camp, which offers the best view of Mt. Machhapuchhre during the trek.

Great for Solo Travelers

This trek is ideal for those who want to explore alone. It’s a relatively simple and short route, usually completed in five days, making it perfect for solo adventurers. You get the freedom to go at your own pace, and it’s also an affordable option. 

Note: However, solo trekking is now restricted by the Nepal government for foreign trekkers, so hiring a guide is required.

Amazing Mountain Views in a Short Time

Mardi Himal Trek offers amazing views of the Himalayas in a short amount of time. Trekkers can enjoy spectacular, up-close views of famous peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal. The beautiful mountain scenery is visible throughout the trek, especially from higher points and the base camp.

Different Routes to Fit Your Needs

The trek provides flexibility with different routes to choose from, so trekkers can select the one that best fits their fitness level and time. Whether you prefer a shorter trek or a longer one, there’s a route for everyone.

Note: You can find details about the Mardi Himal Trek routes in the "Useful Information" section below.

Moderate Difficulty Level

The Mardi Himal Trek is moderately difficult, making it accessible for trekkers with average fitness levels. It doesn’t involve high altitudes or challenging climbs, which makes it a good option for people new to trekking or those looking for a more relaxed adventure.

Affordable for Travelers on a Budget

Compared to other treks in Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek is budget-friendly. With lower costs for permits and accommodation, it offers great value for trekkers who want to experience the Himalayas without spending too much money.

Also, check out our 9 Days Pikey Peak Trek, another budget-friendly option in the Everest region.

What can you expect from Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek offers a lot, providing a rich and fulfilling experience in a short period. It is one of the shortest treks that includes a perfect mix of adventure, breathtaking views, and cultural immersion. Here’s what you can enjoy on this trek:

Witness the Mighty Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges

The Mardi Himal Trek offers amazing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, two of the most famous in the Himalayas. From key points like High Camp and Base Camp, you can see clear, wide views of the snow-covered peaks, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and the distant Dhaulagiri. These stunning sights, along with the quiet and peaceful environment, make the trek a truly memorable experience.

Discover the Spiritual Significance of Machhapuchhre Himal

Machhapuchhre, also called Fishtail Mountain, is very special to the local people. It is considered sacred and is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva. To honor its importance, the mountain has never been climbed. During the Mardi Himal Trek, you will feel the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of this beautiful peak. The local's respect and the stories they share about Machhapuchhre make it more than just a mountain—it’s a symbol of faith and devotion.

Gateway to Other Famous Trekking Routes

The Mardi Himal Trek is a great starting point for other popular treks in the Annapurna region. From here, you can easily join routes like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and Poon Hill Trek. Its location makes it a perfect choice for trekkers who want to continue their adventure and explore more beautiful Himalayan trails.

Explore the Culture of the Magar and Gurung Communities

The Mardi Himal Trek gives you a special chance to experience the culture of the Magar and Gurung communities, the native people of the Annapurna region. These communities are known for their kind hospitality and have kept their traditional way of life, customs, and festivals alive for many years. Along the trail, you can visit their villages, meet local people, and learn about their stories, farming methods, and handicrafts. Their culture adds meaning to the trek, making it a truly memorable experience.

How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek is usually considered a moderate-level trek, with the highest point being High Camp at an elevation of 3,660 meters. It's not too easy, but it's also not too hard, which makes it a popular choice for beginners. The trek provides a good balance for those who are new to trekking and want a challenging yet enjoyable experience. However, it’s important to be in good physical shape to avoid problems like overexertion and altitude sickness, which can make the trek harder if not taken seriously.

How Long Does the Mardi Himal Trek Take?

The Mardi Himal Trek can vary depending on how a person wants to pace their journey. Generally, the trek can be completed in as little as 4 days, starting and ending in Pokhara. However, it can also take up to 10 days, depending on the route, pace, and additional exploration.

At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we offer a 12 days Mardi Himal Trek itinerary, starting and ending in Kathmandu. We also customize the dates, duration, and budget to suit our client's needs, ensuring a flexible and enjoyable trekking experience.

Why choose Himalayan Joy Adventure for your Mardi Himal trek?

There are different ways to plan your trek—you can either go solo with a freelance guide or book through an agency that handles everything for you, like the guide, budget, transportation, and permits. Our company is a government-licensed trekking agency with over 10 years of experience. Here’s why you should choose us:

  • Experienced Guides and Support: Our experienced guides prioritize your safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the trek. With their in-depth knowledge of the trail, local culture, and scenic highlights, they ensure a memorable and hassle-free journey.
  • Customized Itineraries: We offer flexible itineraries tailored to your preferences. Whether you want a shorter trek or an extended adventure, we adjust the dates, pace, and budget to suit your needs.
  • Small Group Treks for a Personal Experience: We specialize in small group treks to provide a more personal and immersive experience. This approach allows us to offer better attention to each trekker and encourage meaningful interactions with the local communities.
  • Affordable Pricing: Our competitive pricing ensures you receive excellent value without compromising quality. Our packages include everything you need—guides, permits, accommodations, and meals—within a budget-friendly framework.
  • Authentic Cultural Experiences: Experience the unique traditions of the Magar and Gurung communities as we guide you through traditional villages. Learn about their customs, lifestyles, and folklore, adding depth to your trekking adventure.

Cost of Mardi Himal Trek in 2025

The cost of the 12 Days Mardi Himal Trek in 2025 is between USD $700 and USD $900 per person. The price depends on how many days the trek lasts, the type of accommodation, and the services included.

At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we offer fair pricing for the 12 days Mardi Himal Trek, with rates based on the size of your group. Bigger groups get better discounts, and we make sure all groups get the same great service.

Please see the group cost breakdown below:

No of PaxStarting price (Per Person)
1-2 paxUSD $900
3-5 paxUSD $850
6-10 paxUSD $790
11-15 paxUSD $750
16-20 paxUSD $700

We also provide flexible packages that fit your schedule, preferences, and budget. Contact us via WhatsApp for more details and a personalized cost estimate!

Itinerary

Expand all Collapse all

Welcome to Nepal. After landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our team members will be waiting to receive you and help you with your transfer to the hotel. Once you check in, you can refresh and take a short rest before stepping out to explore the local area.

Our representative will meet you later to share the plan for the Mardi Himal Trek, explain the route, and answer any questions you may have. If you need trekking gear, Thamel has many shops where you can find anything you might have missed.

In the evening, we invite you to a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. It is a nice way to begin your trip with good food and a short cultural performance. After dinner, you return to the hotel for the night.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1,300m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, your city guide will take you to some of Kathmandu’s well-known heritage sites. These places show the cultural side of Nepal and help you understand the country before heading to the mountains. You will visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square, each offering a different atmosphere and history.

The sightseeing is relaxed and does not feel rushed. You can take your time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings. When you return to your hotel, you will have the afternoon free to prepare for the trek. You can pack your bags, pick up any last-minute items, or simply enjoy a quiet evening before leaving for Pokhara the next day.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1,300m
  • Duration: 4 Hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You start the morning with an early breakfast before boarding a tourist bus to Pokhara. The drive is comfortable and follows a scenic highway that runs beside the Trishuli River. Along the way, you will see green hills, small villages, and terraced fields that give the first glimpse of Nepal’s countryside.

The bus stops in Kurintar for lunch, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a simple meal. After the break, the journey continues toward Pokhara, a lakeside city surrounded by gentle hills and views of the Annapurna range on a clear day.

Once you arrive, you settle into your hotel and have the rest of the day free. You can take a relaxed walk around Lakeside, enjoy the calm atmosphere near Phewa Lake, or visit a café with a view of the water. Pokhara is a peaceful place to rest before the start of your trek.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 820m
  • Duration: 6-7 Hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, you take a short morning drive from Pokhara to Phedi. The ride is smooth and takes about 45 minutes, passing through small settlements and farmland. Once you reach Phedi, your trekking journey begins.

The trail starts with a steady climb through a staircase path surrounded by forest. As you move higher, open areas begin to appear, giving you clear views of the villages below. After some time, you reach Dhampus, a beautiful hilltop village known for its peaceful atmosphere and wide views of Machhapuchhre, the Annapurna range, and Lamjung Himal. This is a pleasant place for a short break or for taking photos.

From Dhampus, the trail continues gently upward through a mix of forest and open meadows until you reach Pothana. Pothana is a small resting point with tea houses and great mountain views. After lunch here, you continue along a quiet forest trail to Deurali. This final part of the walk is calm and filled with rhododendron trees, especially colorful during spring.

By afternoon, you reach Deurali, a peaceful ridge-top settlement surrounded by forest. It is a nice place to end the day and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 2,100m
  • Duration: 6 Hours
  • Accommodation: Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Today’s trail takes you deeper into the forested side of the Mardi Himal region. After breakfast, you leave Deurali and follow a peaceful path that gently climbs away from the main Ghorepani route. Once you enter the forest, the surroundings become quiet and cool, with tall trees and a variety of plants along the way.

There are no tea houses between Deurali and Forest Camp, so you will carry a packed lunch. The trail is steady and mostly shaded, making the walk comfortable even at higher altitudes. You may hear birds along the way or catch glimpses of small wildlife as the forest in this region is rich in vegetation.

After around six hours of walking, you reach Forest Camp. This small resting point sits in the middle of the trees and offers simple but warm accommodation. The air feels fresh, and the calm atmosphere makes it a good place to relax after a full day of walking through quiet woods.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 2,500m
  • Duration: 6 Hours
  • Accommodation: Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, you continue your journey upward through the forest. The trail rises steadily and soon brings you to Low Camp, where the trees begin to thin and the views start to open. This is a nice place to stop for tea or an early lunch. From Low Camp, the first clear view of Machhapuchhre appears, standing tall above the valley.

After lunch, you continue along a ridge that slowly climbs toward the higher section of the trek. As you walk, the landscape begins to change. The dense forest gives way to open areas, and the feeling of being closer to the mountains becomes stronger with every step.

You pass a viewpoint on the way where the Annapurna range, Hiunchuli, and the lower valleys spread out beautifully. This is a good spot to pause, take photos, and enjoy the cool air.

The final stretch takes you along a narrow ridge that leads to High Camp. By the time you reach it, you are above the tree line, surrounded by open hills and clear skies. The mountain views from High Camp are wide and impressive, especially during sunset and sunrise.

High Camp is simple but welcoming, and the peaceful surroundings make it an unforgettable overnight stop.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 3,550m
  • Duration: 4 Hours
  • Accommodation: Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You begin early today to make the most of the clear morning weather. After a warm drink, you follow a narrow ridge that climbs slowly toward the Mardi Himal Viewpoint. The trail is steady and passes through open grasslands with beautiful views on both sides. As you gain height, the peaks of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna range come closer into view.

Reaching the viewpoint at around four thousand meters is one of the highlights of the trek. The entire valley below and the mountain walls above create a quiet, peaceful setting. You can take time here to enjoy the scenery, take photos, or simply sit and take in the calm atmosphere.

If the weather is clear and you feel comfortable, you may continue a little further toward Mardi Himal Base Camp. This section is steeper and more rugged, but the views become even more impressive. From base camp, the mountains stand very close, giving a beautiful sense of scale.

After spending enough time exploring the high ridges, you return to High Camp by following the same trail. The descent feels easier, and you reach the lodge by afternoon, where you can rest and enjoy a warm meal.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 4,200m
  • Duration: 7 Hours
  • Accommodation: Tea-house
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You begin your morning at High Camp with a beautiful sunrise over the Annapurna range. After breakfast, you start descending toward Low Camp, following the same ridge you climbed earlier. The walk feels easier on the way down, and the views stay open for a good part of the trail.

Once you reach Low Camp, the trail leaves the ridge and enters a quiet forest. This route is different from the one you used on the way up, and it brings you through a peaceful stretch of rhododendron and oak trees. The path is soft and shaded, making the descent comfortable and enjoyable.

As you continue downward, the forest becomes thicker before gradually opening into small clearings. By early afternoon, you reach Siding, a calm traditional village away from the main trekking route. The houses here are simple, surrounded by farmland and quiet hills, giving you a different side of life in the Annapurna region.

Siding feels warm and welcoming, and many trekkers enjoy the slower pace of this village after being in the higher elevations.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1.700m
  • Duration: 6 Hours
  • Accommodation: Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast in Siding, you begin your walk through quiet village paths and terraced fields. The trail gently climbs and then becomes mostly flat as you pass through Kalimati, a small settlement surrounded by farmland and trees. This part of the walk feels peaceful, with views of rural life and green hills all around.

A little further ahead, you reach Ghalel, a small Gurung village where you can stop for lunch. Ghalel has a few home-stays and tea houses, and the village is known for its warm hospitality. From here, the trail continues across paddy fields and small bridges before gradually leading you toward Lwang.

Lwang is a traditional village with a calm environment. It has a monastery, a small ACAP office, and a well-kept tea garden that many trekkers enjoy visiting. The village offers a quiet atmosphere with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Note: If you prefer, you can take a local jeep directly from Siding to Pokhara instead of trekking to Lwang.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1,400m
  • Duration: 6 Hours
  • Accommodation: Tea-House
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You begin your morning in Lwang with a relaxed breakfast. The village is known for its tea gardens, so you may take a short walk to enjoy the greenery and the quiet views before starting your final trekking day.

The trail from Lwang to Hemjakot is gentle and pleasant. It follows a mix of village paths, farmland, and small stretches of forest. Along the way, you will see local homes, people working in the fields, and children walking to school. This part of the walk is calm and gives a nice look into everyday life in the hills.

After a couple of hours, you reach Hemjakot, a small settlement with a peaceful rural atmosphere. This is where the Mardi Himal trekking route comes to an end. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Pokhara. The drive is short and follows a scenic road that gradually enters the wider Pokhara valley.

Once you arrive in Pokhara, you check into your hotel and can enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. Many trekkers like to spend the evening near Lakeside, enjoying good food or taking a quiet walk by the water.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 8,20m
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

After breakfast, you begin your journey back to Kathmandu. Most trekkers choose the tourist bus, which follows the familiar Prithvi Highway and takes about six hours. The drive is pleasant, passing along riverbanks, hillsides, and small towns. There are tea stops along the way where you can stretch your legs or enjoy a snack.

If you prefer a shorter and more comfortable option, you can take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The flight takes about twenty-five minutes and offers beautiful aerial views of hills, rivers, and scattered villages.

When you arrive in Kathmandu, you are transferred to your hotel. In the evening, our team invites you for a simple farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. It is a nice moment to relax and reflect on the trek before your departure the next day.

Note: You have an option is, take a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Day Overview:

  • Max. Altitude: 1,300m
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Your journey in Nepal comes to an end today. Depending on your flight time, you may have a quiet morning to enjoy breakfast, organize your bags, or take a short walk near your hotel. When it is time to leave, our team will arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport and ensure you arrive comfortably and with enough time for check-in.

As you head home, we hope the peaceful forests, ridge views, and warm village hospitality from the Mardi Himal Trek stay with you for many years. Thank you for trekking with Himalayan Joy Adventure. We look forward to welcoming you again for another beautiful journey in Nepal.

Day Overview:

  • Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

You will trek only 7 days but this our 12 days Mardi Himal trek itinerary is from landing at Kathmandu to until final departure.

Mardi Himal Trek - 12 Days Route Map

Mardi Himal Trek - 12 Days map

Service Details

What's Included
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • 3 nights' stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis with a BB plan.
  • One day of sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • 1 night's stay in a hotel in Pokhara on a BB plan.
  • 3 meals daily (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) with a cup of tea/coffee.
  • Fresh fruits served every evening.
  • Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis during the trek.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
  • Tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
  • Porter service (one porter for every two guests).
  • Insurance for the trekking guide and porters.
  • Food and salary for the guide and porters.
  • T-shirt and duffel bag branded by Himalayan Joy Adventure.
  • TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area permits.
What's not Included
  • Travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and evacuation (highly recommended).
  • International airfare and airport departure tax.
  • Nepal entry visa can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. (A Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries is available for 15 days at a cost of USD $25 or equivalent in foreign currency, for 30 days at USD $40, and for 90 days at USD $100. Please ensure you bring two passport-size photos for the visa application process)
  • Cold drinks such as mineral water, cola, beer, etc. (Mineral water costs between NPR 100 and NPR 500 per liter. Bringing water purifying tablets is a great idea, as it helps reduce plastic waste and is much cheaper than buying bottled water)
  • Snacks and bar items such as Mars, Snickers, and Bounty chocolates.
  • Personal trekking and climbing equipment.
  • Tips for trekking staff and drivers.
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the "Price Includes" section.

Useful Information

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

The best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek is during two main trekking seasons in the Annapurna region: spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer good weather and clear views, making it a great time for trekking. Here’s a breakdown of each season:

Spring (March to May)

  • Weather: Spring is one of the best times for trekking. The weather is mild, with comfortable temperatures during the day and stable conditions.

  • Scenery: The trails are filled with colorful Rhododendron flowers, and the landscape is green and fresh.

  • Visibility: Clear skies give you great views of the mountains, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.

Autumn (September to November)

  • Weather: Autumn is another great season for trekking. The weather is stable, and temperatures are mild, making trekking comfortable.

  • Scenery: The clear skies provide amazing views of the snow-capped peaks and beautiful landscapes.

  • Cultural Festivals: This season is also when major Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar take place, offering a chance to experience local culture and traditions.

Different Routes on Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek offers a variety of routes, giving trekkers the flexibility to choose based on their time, fitness, and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a short and direct journey or a longer, scenic adventure, there’s a route for everyone.

  1. Classic Route (5-7 Days)

    • Starts from Kande near Pokhara and passes through villages like Australian Camp, Forest Camp, and High Camp before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp.
    • Ideal for trekkers with limited time who want to experience the best highlights of the trek.

  2. Scenic Route via Ghandruk (7-9 Days)

    • Starts from Ghandruk, one of the most picturesque villages in Nepal.
    • Offers a cultural experience with opportunities to explore the Gurung community before connecting to the classic Mardi Himal trail.
    • Perfect for those wanting a mix of culture and nature.

  3. Siding Village Route (Alternative Exit)

    • Instead of retracing the same path, you can descend via Siding Village, a quiet and less-traveled route.
    • Provides a peaceful end to the trek with stunning views and interactions with locals.

  4. Longer Route with Poon Hill (10-12 Days)

    • Combines the Mardi Himal Trek with the famous Poon Hill Trek, known for its incredible sunrise views over the Himalayas.
    • Suitable for trekkers with more time who want to explore multiple highlights of the Annapurna region.

What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek requires specific permits to enter the region and enjoy this stunning adventure. While it’s one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking experiences, trekkers must obtain the necessary permissions before entering the Annapurna Region.

You will need two main permits:

  1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

    • This permit is essential to access the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Mardi Himal region. The fee supports conservation efforts and helps maintain the natural beauty of the area.

  2. Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) Card

    • The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal. It enhances your safety by recording trekker information, which helps with coordination and rescue operations if needed.

These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara at the respective offices or through a registered trekking agency like Himalayan Joy Adventure. Be sure to carry your permits throughout the trek, as they may be checked at various points along the trail.

Mardi Himal Trek - 12 Days FAQs

  • The highest altitude in the Mardi Himal Trek is 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at Mardi Himal Base Camp.

  • Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek consists mainly of basic teahouses and lodges. Rooms are simple, usually twin-sharing, with basic bedding and blankets, but carrying a sleeping bag is recommended. Toilets are mostly shared, and hot showers may be available for an extra cost.

  • The food on the Mardi Himal trek is typical of Nepalese trekking routes, with dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables, and curry) being the staple. Teahouses also serve noodles, pasta, momos, fried rice, soups, and chapati. Breakfast options include pancakes, porridge, eggs, and Tibetan bread. Prices increase with altitude, and variety may be limited at higher elevations.

  • The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes 6 to 7 days, depending on your starting point and pace. A standard itinerary is 5 days, but it can be shortened or extended based on your preference.

  • WiFi and connectivity on the Mardi Himal Trek are limited. Lower areas like Pokhara, Kande, and Forest Camp have decent mobile network coverage and some lodges offer WiFi (often for a fee). As you ascend to High Camp and Base Camp, the signal gets weaker, and WiFi is rare or unreliable. NCELL and NTC networks work better in lower regions but may not be reliable at higher altitudes.

  • The Mardi Himal Trek is moderately difficult. It’s a short but steep trek with daily ascents and descents. The trails are well-defined but can be challenging due to steep climbs, stone steps, and high altitude (4,500m at Base Camp). No technical climbing is required, but good fitness is needed. Weather can add difficulty, especially in winter or the monsoon.

  • A guide and porter are not mandatory for the Mardi Himal Trek, but they can be helpful. Hiring a guide can enhance your experience with local insights, and a porter can ease your load, making the trek more comfortable. If you're inexperienced or trekking in harsh weather, hiring them is recommended.

  • Yes, you can trek to Mardi Himal in winter, but be prepared for cold temperatures, snowfall, and slippery trails. Proper gear, warm clothing, and checking weather conditions are essential for a safe trek.

  • The best time to trek to Mardi Himal is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and stunning mountain views.

  • Tipping is widely accepted and often expected when trekking in Nepal, especially within the tourism industry. If you've hired a guide or porter, it's customary to tip them.

12Days
Price Per PersonUS$900US$1200
Starts:KathmanduEnds:Kathmandu
We Offer Group Discount Price
1 - 2 pax
US$900
3 - 5 pax
US$850
6 - 10 pax
US$790
11 - 15 pax
US$750
16 - 20 pax
US$700
Book this trip
Traveler Reviews
What Our Happy Clients Say
  • Mardi Himal amazing trek

    We did the Mardi Himal trek and it is very enjoyable. Cholendra shows great hospitality in treating us well in Kathmandu. Krishna and Sudip babu are friendly and fun, making the trip enjoyable. The company took care of us from landing to departure and everything is assisted well. Tika also joined us on the last day of the trip and he is very knowledgeable.

    V
    Vicky AIndonesia,Nov 23, 2024
    TripAdvisor
  • Amazing Mardi Himal Trek with Himalayan Joy! (Guide Krishna & Porter Sudip)

    I had an incredible experience trekking the Mardi Himal route with Himalayan Joy! Our guide, Krishna, and porter, Sudip, were absolutely fantastic. They were not only professional and knowledgeable but also fun and engaging, making the journey even more enjoyable.

    We absolutely loved the delicious daal bhat and the cozy teahouses along the way. A special mention to Hotel Rhythm—it was truly amazing and a standout among the accommodations! The route itself was very doable, and the scenery was breathtaking— truly a feast for the eyes at every turn!

    The organization and support provided by the company made everything smooth and stress-free. Thank you, Himalayan Joy, for such a memorable trip! Highly recommend them to anyone planning a trek in Nepal.

    qiqilee
    qiqileeSingapore,Nov 23, 2024
    TripAdvisor
Similar Trips
You May Also Like
See all packages

Send an Inquiry

24/7 Customer Support
Call Us on WhatsApp+977 9851031957 (Cholendra)
Send Us a Message[email protected]
Plan Your Trip

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website.

Privacy Policy