Amongst all the countless trekking destinations heading in and out of the stunning Annapurna region, every time a new one gets introduced a host of questions follow. What is it that makes this destination different from everything else? For starters, the Mardi Himal trek is arguably one of the best short distance treks that has everything an ideal trek should. Off the beaten paths, vibrant hamlets, quaint and quiet trails and above all Himalayas galore. Heading through the foothills of the majestic Annapurna Range this adventure will take you south of the majestic Annapurna I (8,091m). Home to the Gurung’s, this little-explored land holds the feel of discovery and authenticity with them which can also be seen in the culture and the unique way of life. One of the coveted spots for Himalayan viewing, the Mardi Himal Base Camp is the very best spot to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Annapurna as well as Dhaulagiri Ranges.
We begin our Himalayan adventure with a lovely drive to the picturesque city of Pokhara. Described as the gateway to Annapurna, this stunning city attracts tourists worldwide regardless of the time and season. We shall explore the Fewa Lake and World Peace Pagoda before heading elsewhere. The next day, we drive to Kande through the lush green forests. We officially begin our trek headed for Forest Camp for our first night on the go. Through the lush green forests adorned with rhododendron blossoming in shades of red, white and pink, the journey ascends through stunning rivers and picturesque waterfalls to reach the Mardi High Camp passing the Low Camp along the way. An early morning hike takes us to the Upper viewpoint which boasts an incredible Himalayan panorama comprising of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Mardi Himal (6,687m), Annapurna South (7,219m) and many more. Taking some time off to enjoy the Himalayan beauty we descend towards Siding before ending our journey back at Pokhara. Catch a flight that takes you back to Kathmandu which marks the end of this amazing journey.
We here at Miteri Nepal love traveling as much as you do and are always up for a short adventure even more so if it involves the Annapurna Region. Itineraries constructed by keeping every person in mind and well-trained guides mean that you get to enjoy this amazing adventure without any worries. Furthermore, we provide the best deals in affordable rates meaning that you get the best of both worlds.
Touch down at the Tribhuvan International Airport and you will be welcomed by the representatives from our office who will drive you directly to your hotel. Freshen up from the day’s journey and you will be introduced to other members of the staff alongside your guides for the trip. The day officially comes to an end once we conclude our briefing session and discussing the day to day itinerary as well as the journey as a whole after which you are free to head down to the local region enjoying the pleasant evening. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today is the first day of the trip and we begin our journey by making our way over to Pokhara. Making our way out of Kathmandu through the majestic hills, the journey heads through the winding bends of the Prithvi Highway surrounded by pleasant hilly landscapes. Following the Trishuli River towards the west, the journey heads past several cities to enter the stunning Pokhara valley. Spend your time in Pokhara by visiting Fewa Lake and the World peace pagoda. Overnight at Pokhara.
We commence our journey by driving to the trailhead located at Kande. The journey is a pleasant one as it gives us our first preview of the stunning beauty held by the Annapurna Region. Reaching Kande, we begin our ascending journey by walking through the lush green forests to reach the Australian Camp. This is the most visited viewpoint to the majestic Annapurna Range. We take some time off at the camp to enjoy the stunning Himalayan views. Past the stunning rhododendron forests, the trail heads through the Deurali to reach the forest camp. Overnight in Forest Camp.
Starting from forest camp, we begin our gradual ascend through the lush green forests adorned with pine and rhododendron trees. As the trail is recently opened, it is often uninhabited for large sections. As the trail gradually climbs to low camp, the majestic hills on the horizon give way to reveal the stunning views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,693m) and Mardi Himal (5,587m). Reaching low camp, we can either take rest from our days of traveling or hike up to Badal Danda for better views of the Himalayas. Overnight in low camp.
Making our way out of High Camp, we begin our ascending journey to the Badal Danda viewpoint for mesmerizing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. Past the hamlet of Badal Danda, the trail leaves behind the tree lines opting for the alpine shrubs and Himalayan wilderness. With the ever-present Himalayas on the horizon edging closer to us we reach the High Camp located at an altitude of 3,550m. The clearing hosts 3 tea houses and stunning Himalayan views. Overnight in High Camp.
One of the long and challenging days of the trek today, we make our way to the Mardi Himal Base Camp or the Upper View Point at an altitude of 4,500m. The journey offers steep ascends and descends and is more challenging than what we are used to. Ascending through the rocky Himalayan trail, the journey reaches the crest marked Mardi Himal Base Camp from where we trek another two hours to reach the upper viewpoint. Boasting an unforgettable Himalayan panorama comprising of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Mardi Himal (6,687m), Annapurna South (7,219m) alongside several other peaks of Annapurna Range the sights from the viewpoint are as mesmerizing as we claim it to be. Taking some time off to enjoy the stunning Himalayan views we descend back to High Camp for the night. Overnight in High Camp.
From today, we shall start our journey down the hills. Exiting High camp, the trail retraces its steps towards the low camp and from there we leave the classic Mardi trek and set off on a descending run headed towards Siding. One of the traditional Gurung hamlets, the region sees little to no tourists which make it an ideal place to stay for those looking for a day off even from the occasional crowds at Mardi Himal. Overnight in Siding.
The final day of our trek takes us back to Pokhara. The journey is an easy one as it takes us through the finals stretches of the stunning Annapurna region. Connected via the roadways you can also choose to drive back to Pokhara which takes about 3 hours meaning you get more time to explore the stunning city. Reaching Pokhara, we first make our way to the hotel which concludes all our activities for the trek. Once again you are free to head down to the local region enjoying the stunning views of the lakeside.
Beginning our day early we exit the stunning city of Pokhara bidding to goodbye to the Annapurna region. Heading alongside the stunning Trishuli River the journey takes us back through the familiar bends of the Prithvi Highway to reach the capital city. Reaching Kathmandu, we make our way directly to the hotel where a lovely farewell dinner awaits us. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Our representatives will drop you back to Tribhuvan International Airport just in time for your flight back home. We hope you had a lovely time with us and we look forward to seeing you again.
Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek is provided in local teahouses along the trail. These lodges offer simple yet comfortable rooms, usually with twin beds and shared bathroom facilities. As the trek reaches higher elevations, accommodation becomes more basic, but the friendly service and cozy dining areas provide a pleasant and restful environment after a day of hiking.
Trekkers are served wholesome and energy-rich meals throughout the trek. Common dishes include dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Meat is generally available at lower elevations, while food options become more limited at higher altitudes. Despite the simplicity, meals are sufficient to maintain strength and energy for daily trekking.
To complete the Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers are required to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits are mandatory for trekking within the Annapurna region and help ensure environmental protection and trekker safety.
The Mardi Himal Trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters, making altitude awareness important. Trekkers are encouraged to walk at a gradual pace, drink plenty of fluids, and follow proper acclimatization practices. The itinerary is designed to reduce the risk of altitude-related issues and ensure a safe trekking experience.
The ideal seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek are March to May and September to November. During these months, weather conditions are stable, temperatures are moderate, and mountain views are at their best. Trekkers can enjoy clear vistas of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and surrounding peaks.
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