Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Tea House Lodge Trek
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Tea House Lodge
  • Group Size: 1
  • Max Elevation: 4100 m

Highlights

  • Get breathtaking geographical views of the Annapurna, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal.
  • Hike through meadows and rhododendron forests, cross swift streams, walk through alpine zone.
  • Accommodation will be in simple teahouses and witness beautiful and friendly ethnic, Gurung and Magar people.
  • Hike has a slightly smaller number of people than the other routes in the Annapurna region.
  • During the trekking, you can enjoy a cool breeze, scenic sites, and watching the sun rise and set from different locations.
  • Meet several plant and animal species born in this park, such as birds.
  • Culturally, tourists have an opportunity to visit traditional villages and learn about the culture and way of life of the people.
  • During the Mardi Himal trek, reaching the base camp at 4500m is a privilege, as it allows one to get an eye-level view of the high mountains.
  • Take beautiful shots of rocks, overhangs, cliffs, and, of course, the great mountains.
  • Enjoy tasty Nepalese and world food at teahouses at respective points of the trail.

The ten-day Mardi Himal trek will take you to the newly discovered route of Nepal's Annapurna region, which has been popular for its untouched beauty and panoramic view of the forest, clouds, hills, and Himalayas. This trek reveals a clearly different and incredibly beautiful view of Mardi Himal, the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhare (Fish Tail)Mountain, and Dhaulagiri. While on the Mardi Himal trek, you will cross forests, and after some days, you will be in the spectacular terrains of Badal Dada, Mardi High Camp, Mardi View Point, and the final destination of Mardi Himal Base Camp.

The trail takes you through the upper Mardi Khola, where the region's ecosystem includes pines, junipers, and rhododendrons, mostly inhabited by various species of unknown and undiscovered animals. Thus starts the new world after leaving behind the Badal Dada, which opens to you the Raw and Awe-like terrains where mountains now appear even taller and nearer, clouds glide over, and a single trail leads you to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. High Camp has an excellent lodging facility amidst the Annapurna range, Mardi Himal, and the virgin peak of Machhapuchhre, which lifts you to the seventh heaven.

There could not be a sweeter memory of this short trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp. In addition to the beautiful woods and picturesque villages, the detailed views of some of the mountains, such as Mardi Himal, the virgin Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Hiunchuli, will serve your mountain fetish in the shortest possible time. And that is where clouds will be touchably low, mountains – jarringly close, and the greenery under your feet – invitingly dense, which makes the heart pound with delight.

However, the Nepal Adventure Team has planned and managed the Mardi Himal trek well, although it was discovered recently. This perfect wonder 10-day trek is recommended for adventurers with a short time. 

Why Mardi Himal Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek will be the best recommendation for trekkers who want to be alert to natural and cultural Nepal in a few days. This trek is in Nepal on the Annapurna range, and it has a relatively recent trail compared to other treks; hence, it has few people hiking. By doing this, you can walk in the area and see the beautiful nature without coming across crowded groups of trekkers. The path moves through the thick rhododendron, followed by different beautiful villages, and up through the thousand heights offering splendid views of Annapurna massif, Fishtail, and Mardi Himal.

Another talk of the town about the Mardi Himal trek is that the trek presents the atmosphere of the virgin trekking trail. The environment changes gradually from being a vegetation cover of green forests to mountainous terrains. High Camp, as you probably guessed, is one of the best and a major attraction of the trek, whereby you are on flat ground, yet you feel right at the top of the world, enclosed by major hills and the sky above. Our destination is Mardi Himal at an altitude of 4,500m, which is neither a trekker's hub like Poon Hill or Ghorepani nor frequented by travelers like Machhapuchchhre base camp; the vicinity of the high mountains and the miraculous size of the landscapes at this altitude are impressive.

Also, the Mardi Himal Trek couldn't be more than a display of natural beauty; it is a cultural one, too. During the course, trekkers will walk through the territory of Gurung and Magar ethnic groups ' settlements, where you will get an idea of their daily life and culture. Accommodation is in cozy teahouses, which allows one to socialize with locals and other trekkers, as this is a popular point of discussion. This effective union of beautiful sceneries, colorful and vibrant tradition, and the spirit of loneliness makes Mardi Himal trek captivating for every traveler interested in the Annapurna region but not wanting to just follow the crowd.

Detail Itinerary

  • Day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m)
  • Day 02Drive to Pokhara, (827 m) - 6 hours
  • Day 03Drive to Phedi and trek to Pothana, (2,006 m) - 3/4 hours
  • Day 04Trek to Rest camp via Forest Camp (2,560 m) – 5/6 hours
  • Day 05Rest camp to Badal danda via Low Camp (3,250 m) – 4/5 hours
  • Day 06Badal danda to High Camp, (4,100 m) – 6 hours
  • Day 07High camp to Mardi view point – Mardi base camp and back to Low camp, (2,990 m) – 5/6 hours
  • Day 08Low camp to Sidding village and drive back to Pokhara, (850) – 3/4 hours
  • Day 09Drive back to Kathmandu
  • Day 10International departure
  • Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m)

    Nepal Adventure Team’s staff and guide receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the respective hotels in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. After refreshment, our guide/leader brief you regarding hotels, Nepali cultures, tours, and Annapurna Base Camp Trekking along with welcome dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant assisted by a folk cultural program.

    • Meals: Welcome Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1350m
  • Day 02 Drive to Pokhara, (827 m) - 6 hours

    Our coordinates drive you to the Domestic Airport to take a 25 minutes flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Else you can take a private vehicle or tourist bus to Pokhara. It takes around 6 -7 hours drive for the tourist bus to reach Pokhara. You can roam around Lakeside in the evening, boat on Phewa Lake, and explore the nightlife. You get to enjoy the spectacular views of the Annapurna Range and Mount Machhapuchre in Pokhara.

    • Meals: Breakfast
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 827m
  • Day 03 Drive to Phedi and trek to Pothana, (2,006 m) - 3/4 hours

    This is the day when the exact hike begins. From Pokhara, we drive to Phedi and initiate to climb up the steep hills. Up to Dhampus, the path is steep which may demand the long breath but the path accompanied by views, tranquility, friendly locals, and smiling face of other trekkers divert your mind from tiredness. Dhampus welcomes you with a wide range of the Himalayan scenes. Further, moderate walk decorated by rhododendrons and woods, you settle to Pothana for the stay. This day acts as a warm-up for the coming long hours of walk.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Pothana
    • Altitude: 2006m
  • Day 04 Trek to Rest camp via Forest Camp (2,560 m) – 5/6 hours

    After breakfast, we head to the Forest Camp from Pothana. The trail takes you through a dense forest of oak, rhododendron, daphnia, hemlock, and maple. Eventually, you climb towards through fresh mosses, lichen, orchids, and tree ferns. The trees are taller and larger around here. The dramatic scenery of the Mt. Machhapuchre, Annapurna massif, and Mardi Himal is all worth the trek. The rest camp is our home for the night. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Rest Camp
    • Altitude: 2560m
  • Day 05 Rest camp to Badal danda via Low Camp (3,250 m) – 4/5 hours

    It is a short day trek that is rather easier as we march to Badal Dada via low Camp from rest Camp. The trail passes through old dense forest with the occasional glimpse of the Annapurna’s South Ridge. Low Camp offers a close-up view of Mount Fishtail. Further, up climb ends at Badal Dada and gives the opportunity to observe the panoramic view of Annapurna Range, Mount Fishtail, and Mardi in the closest way. You observe the ridges you passed by and the clouds are below the hills you are standing on. Badal means cloud in Nepali and the scene takes you in cloud nine.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Badal Danda
    • Altitude: 3250m
  • Day 06 Badal danda to High Camp, (4,100 m) – 6 hours

    The sights of the cloud being below and companied by mountains fill up the body to the run-up to the destination. Slowly, the trail opens up above the tree line and the views of Annapurna and Hiunchuli are visible. The paths over barren hills covered with grasses are narrow such that only 1 or 2 persons can pass. If you are lucky enough, you might also get to spot the colorful pheasant, Danphe which is the national bird of Nepal. You have enough time to observe the surroundings and rest as in the afternoon it is not preferred to walk further due to local weather conditions. From High camp and above, you feel as if you are going to touch Mardi, Annapurna, and Fishtail within few steps.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: High Camp
    • Altitude: 4100m
  • Day 07 High camp to Mardi view point – Mardi base camp and back to Low camp, (2,990 m) – 5/6 hours

    The 8th day is slightly challenging as you hike up to Mardi's viewpoint and roll down to Low Camp. The trail from High Camp to Mardi viewpoint is adventurous and thrilling as it is not the usual trail that most trekking routes have. You need to climb through steep rocks. Undoubtedly, the environment you can glance at is worth all the hard climbing. You do not even wish to blink as you do not want to miss the sight even for a bit. We wish to spend more time but the weather changes drastically in moments, so have to walk down as soon. Following the same route and being delighted with nature’s astonishing beauty, we stay at Low camp. Visitors and locals believe that snow leopard resides around.

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Tea/Coffee
    • Accommodation: Tea/House Lodge
    • Place: Low Camp
    • Altitude: 2990m
  • Day 08 Low camp to Sidding village and drive back to Pokhara, (850) – 3/4 hours

    The route to Siding from Low Camp is filled with old dense forest. You are required to walk down the number of hills to reach Siding for the sound and comfortable night. Siding is beautiful village having Fishtail and Mardi on top and Mardi rivulets below with the terrace farming system. The village is less crowed and has few hotels around. You are driven to Pokhara and the ride is as adventurous as the trek was. The off-road drive is companied by villages, waterfalls, rivers, and local lifestyle. From Siding, you can observe the road up to the town. 

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Tea/Coffee
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Pokhara
    • Altitude: 827m
  • Day 09 Drive back to Kathmandu

    You can either fly back to Kathmandu city or take a drive. In Kathmandu, you shop some souvenirs around Thamel or explore the city as the way you want.

    • Meals: Farewell Dinner
    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Place: Kathmandu
    • Altitude: 1350m
  • Day 10 International departure

    With the mesmerizing heart after accomplishing Mardi Himal Base Camp, as per your schedule, Nepal Adventure Team drops you to Tribhuvan International Airport. Nepal Adventure Team is open to your feedback and reviews as well as the bid your goodbyes with the hope to meet you soon in your next trip to Nepal.

    • Meals: Breakfast

Trip Map

10 Days Mardi Himal Trek map

What's Included

Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop and all other ground transportation
  • Welcome and farewell dinner at a typical Nepali restaurant
  • Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara on BB plan basis
  • Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus
  • All the meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) and accommodation during the trek.
  • Drive to Phedi by car and pickup from trek by local bus
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit
  • TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System) card.
  • English-speaking trekking guide, and porters and their expenses
  • First Aid medical Kitbag.
  • Local fresh fruits and salads
  • Nepal Adventure Team (NAT) t-shirt and certificate of appreciation
  • Government VAT and Local Taxes

Excluded

  • International airfare and visa fees
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks ( alcoholic and non - alcoholic )
  • Travel insurance
  • Gratitude to the staff.

PRICES & DATES

Useful Information

Best Time and Season for The Mardi Himal Trek

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to visit Nepal and plan the Mardi Himal Trek. In these times, the weather is normally fine, and the temperatures moderate, meaning that the trails' environmental conditions and the trekking environment's overall viability will be enhanced so that the scenic aspects of the mountains can be fully enjoyed. On the other hand, the monsoon season is the worst time for trekking because the rain makes the trails muddy and covered with sponges, and the rain clouds hinder the views. Winter can be problematic due to the ice-covered paths, which may become dangerous for hiking, but at the same time, it projects a beautiful image of snowy scenery. Particularly, the hills and paths covered with snow make the search for adventure more extreme and provide an aesthetically flawless outlook to those already equipped and eager to enjoy the trekking tours.

 

Food and Accommodation

The trekkers, while following the routes of the Mardi Himal trek, will have a lot of good food and comfortable places to stay to have the maximum trekking experience. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included when on the trek, and you are assured of adequate energy to carry out the trekking activities. While in Kathmandu and Pokhara, only breakfasts are offered; thus, you can taste Nepalese cuisine in the cafes and restaurants. The majoritarian food served in the several local lodges and teahouses along the Mardi Himal Trek are Nepalese, and some of the foods being served include Daal Bhat, curry and pickle, Tibetan food, Continental, Indian and other foods as may suffice the taste of travelers.

Accommodation in Kathmandu will be in one of the finest three or four-star hotels, depending on the availability on a sharing basis. This involves offering welcoming meals to climax the trip and send you off with the best feel. During the trekking, the lodges and teahouses are available for shelter en route and are relatively comfortable. These cabins are found at several locations, providing a comfortable environment where you can unwind after hiking. It is also important to note that in many teahouses, the toilets and baths are also shared, enhancing the whole concept of trekking.

Note: For those who prefer a single room, this option is available on special request and at an additional cost.

 

Guides and Porters

Going for the Mardi Himal Trek, during which one goes to the relatively uninhabited areas at altitudes of up to 4,100 meters, requires a professional and experienced leader. Our guides at Nepal Adventure Team are fully trained, experienced, and licensed, and we take pride in being among the most qualified in the region. All drivers undergo a rigorous procedural training process to cater to different circumstances, making your trip safe and fun simultaneously. Our guide's experience enables them to negotiate through any difficulty, meaning hiking with us is always a breeze and a joy.

As important as our team is, it is equally important that our porters, who are always fully equipped in all the necessary gear that is/are afforded appropriate care under our company policy. Appreciating their importance as a company's foundation, we prioritize providing them with insurance, proper remuneration,, and considerate treatment. We set the porter's maximum load to 25 kilograms to ensure their health is not compromised. This catering to their needs and fairness towards them demonstrate their well-being and recognizes their important role in the success of our treks.

 

Fitness and Health Required

You do not need prior trekking experience for the moderate Mardi Himal Trek; however, you should be physically and mentally fit. For preparation, one should jog and run for a few days or weeks before the trek since it involves a lot of walking on hills, ridges, villages, mountains, etc. If you have any health issues, we need to know before the trek, and we will ensure proper arrangements are made to guarantee your safety during the trek.

 

Transportation during the trek

As for the transportation property that may be required on the Mardi Himal Trek, transportation is well arranged for your convenience on this trek. To start the trek, take a deluxe tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which has some nice views. You will be picked up from the airport in Pokhara and taken by private vehicle to Phedi, which marks the start of the trek.

Transportation arrangements will be made, and Sedding will provide a private vehicle to take you back to Pokhara, and you will have to take a local bus from there. This would ensure a certain and realistic organization of the return journey. All transport costs included are fully inclusive unless indicated otherwise to ensure that the transport costs are made clear and easy for the trekkers. Also, all transfers in and out of the airport of Kathmandu are included so that you can have a smooth transfer, be it on the international or the domestic terminal.

 

Equipment List

  • Travel documents: passport, visa (if you have one), travel insurance, air tickets, voucher, passport photo (x 2)
  • Bank cards or credit cards, travelers' cheques, etc
  • Comfortable boots and runners/sports shoes.
  • 6-8 pairs of socks woolen/cotton.
  • Fleece jacket, Down / Duvet Jacket, and Rain / windproof jacket.
  • Gloves- 2 pairs.
  • T-shirts 4-6 pcs, shirts (woolen/cotton).
  • A cap for the day and a woolen hat or Balaclava for evening/morning wear.
  • Trousers.
  • Short and tracksuits.
  • Sleeping bag (4 seasons) with inner liner.
  • Large and small towels.
  • Toiletries.
  • Water bottle.
  • Sun /snow glass.
  • Ski/walking poles(optional but useful).
  • First Aid/medical kit.
  • Rucksack/backpack.
  • Duffel Bags(carried by porters or animals).
  • Torch / Flashlights with spare batteries.
  • Pen knife/ Swiss knife.
  • Scarf/mask (for dust and wind).
  • Personal hygiene stuff.
  • Any other extras you feel are necessary, like binoculars, cameras, books, journals, and more.

 

Responsible Tourism

As for the company and employees' responsibility, we at the Nepal Adventure Team adhere to the fact that responsibility for the consequences of our actions should be shared with local communities and the environment. We emphasize that our clients play a crucial role by:

1. For this, they will have to adhere to the laws of the host country, recognized and unrecognized customs, and prevailing beliefs.

2. Paying courtesy to the locals by asking for permission before performing any activities in the community or asking the leader of a trekking party before performing any issues within the community.

3. The ability to tread lightly and not leave a single sign of impact on the environments passed through, ensuring anything chuck is properly disposed of and the areas left in their natural state to show that they were never passed through.

4. Cultivating local talent and endeavors, emphasizing the advantages of tourism for locals' financial prospects and identities.

Thus, we can all combine our efforts and ensure that tourism meets certain standards in Nepal that will not be prejudicial to the inhabitants of this country and the environment.

 

Trip Specific Safety

Your guide is always there for your safety concerns and looking after your valuables. But you have to be equally careful. Carry some sort of wallet or belt for your important documents and money. The hotels have a safety deposit box where the lock is recommended before passing the luggage.

 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must when you travel abroad. Therefore, before you come to Nepal, please make sure you have your insurance documents with you since our insurance companies cannot insure foreign nationals. They cover all the expenses if you face some unfortunate happenings and you have to be rescued or medically assisted during the trip or if your belongings are lost or stolen.

 

Precautionary Note:

Mardi Himal Trek is a newly opened trek in the Annapurna region in Nepal, so the itineraries are modified and moderated so that you can take it easy and slow. DO NOT RUSH AND ENJOY. There is plenty of time, and the guide will keep track of you all the time. It might be a bit harder or a bit colder, but you will get used to it.

Client Reviews

  • noimage
    Rating Review by: Emily Johnson, Portugal

    Wonderful Trek!

    Mardi Himal Trek was an absolute delight! The breathtaking views of the Annapurna range coupled with serene trails made it a memorable experience. The trek was well-organized, with comfortable accommodations and knowledgeable guides. I especially loved the peaceful atmosphere of the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Highly recommend this trek for nature enthusiasts seeking a bit of adventure and tranquility.

  • noimage
    Rating Review by: David Thompson, Austria

    Amazing experience!

    Mardi Himal Trek exceeded all my expectations! The trail was challenging yet rewarding, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. The highlight was definitely reaching the high camp and witnessing the sunrise over the Himalayas. A must-do trek for anyone seeking an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

  • noimage
    Rating Review by: Lee, Singapore

    It was wonderful Mountain View, Highly Recommend NAT

    If you are someone who loves trekking as much as I do then I suggest that you go to Mardi Himal. If you are someone who cannot handle inconveniences and needs flawless service then I suggest that you go with the travel agency, Nepal Adventure Team. Without any hassle, I got to trek to Mardi Himal and the lovely Pokhara. Moreover, I also traveled to various religious sites around Kathmandu Valley. Thanks to my trip manager, I had no trouble with finding rooms in lodges. Also with his instructions, I had no difficulty in reaching Mardi Base Camp. I’m very proud of myself and wouldn’t have done this without the help of the team.