MARDI HIMAL TREK
MARDI HIMAL TREK
Enjoy the feeling of solitude as you trek in this remote less traveled region.
Fewer tourists, but big on beauty!
Snowcapped peaks abound as you enjoy this off-the-beaten-path trek that is full of adventure with fewer people. This trek has a lot to offer and is culturally rich and abundant in beauty. Experience the beauty and remoteness as you follow the trail to Machapuchare Base Camp. The trail takes you through lush valleys, alpine meadows where yaks graze, through rhododendron, pine, and subtropical forests, crossing many rivers with waterfalls cascading from above, and most spectacular of all the gigantic peaks that surround you.
The Mardi Himal Trek begins at the city of Pokhara with Phewa Tal (Lake) at its center. The trail initially takes us through a rhododendron forest and along the bank of rivers. The trail descends to Mardi Khola (river) and then ascends toward Phedi. The Mardi Himal trek offers fantastic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Ranges, Mt. Hiunchuli, and Mt. Machapuchare (Fish Tail).
The trail to Mardi Himal is suitable for most people of average fitness. Climbing from the valley floor may have you breathing hard, but the surrounding beauty will make up for it and be a welcome distraction. Enjoy the solitude on this unusual trek to more remote areas.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
- Magnificent sunrise and sunset view from Mardi Himal High Camp.
- Incredible landscape, local culture, beautiful rhododendron forest during the spring season (March)
- Stunning views of Himalchuli (7893m), Annapurna South (7219m – Annapurna Dakshin), Mardi Himal (5587m), and Machapuchare (6993m - Fish Tail).
- A diverse range of flora and fauna on the trek – lush forest draped in low clouds.
- Pothana Village trek through rhododendron forest to Low Camp.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel (1,350m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a Sherpa Expedition & Trekking representative, and taken to your hotel. After checking in at the hotel, you will be briefed on what to expect on your trek to Mardi Himal.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.
Day 3 : Drive to Kande and Trek to Pritam Deurali (2,100 meters) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Start your day with a scenic drive to Kande, followed by a 4-5 hour trek to Pritam Deurali at 2,100 meters. Enjoy lush forests, charming villages, and stunning mountain views along the way. Arrive at Pritam Deurali for breathtaking panoramas and a peaceful evening amidst nature.
Day 4 : Trek from Pritam Deurali to Forest Camp (2,600 meters) Duration: 5-6 Hours
Embark on a 5-6 hour trek from Pritam Deurali to Forest Camp, situated at 2,600 meters. The journey takes you through lush, dense forests and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Experience the tranquility of the wilderness as you traverse well-trodden trails, eventually arriving at the serene Forest Camp. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty that surrounds your campsite.
Day 5 : Trek from Forest Camp to Mardi Himal Low camp (3,150m) Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today you will notice the change in vegetation with more cloud and moisture causing the trees to be covered in moss and lichen, with orchids clinging to the trees. It is cooler and has a more jungle feel. Occasionally you can catch a glimpse through the trees of the snow-capped mountains, such as Mt. Machapuchare, Mardi Himal, and the Annapurna Ranges.
Day 6 : Trek from Low Camp to Mardi Himal High Camp (3,580m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After an early breakfast, we head out to the highest point on this trek where you will have to get accustomed to the higher altitude. The majestic peaks look close enough to touch. The massive face of the mountain highlights the enormity of Mardi Himal (5587m). We will go a little higher during the day to get a better appreciation of these enormous peaks before heading back to High Camp in the evening.
Day 7 : Hike to Mardi Himal base Camp (4,500m) & trek Low camp (3,150m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
After enjoying the sunrise and a warm breakfast, we embark from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) via the viewpoint where you can enjoy mountain vistas and other views. Our trail today takes us through shaded forest and past the terraced farmland. It is all downhill and not so strenuous, but descends nearly 1400 meters before reaching Low camp. Overnight at Low camp.
Day 8 : Trek to Siding Village (1,280m) & drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our trail today takes us through shaded forest and past the terraced farmland. It is all downhill and not so strenuous, but descends nearly 1,800 meters before reaching Siding Village. Siding Village is also known for its honey-catchers who hang off ropes and extract honey from the cliffs above the village. We follow the trail along the bank of the Mardi Khola and cross several suspension bridges along the way. This countryside is lush and productive for the local villagers. After lunch, we take a local transport back to Pokhara in time to lunch. Mahendra Cave (limestone 152m in length) and David’s Fall are two attractions you may wish to see after arriving back at Pokhara.
Day 9 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!
Day 10 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport.
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
SERVICES
Costs included:
- Airport / Hotel / Airport transfers by private vehicle.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruits every night after dinner.
- Trekking lodge accommodation during the trek.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit & Tourist Infomation Management System (TIMS) permit.
- Transportation by Tourist Bus Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
- Shared transport Pokhara to kande & Share transport Siding to Pokhara.
- English speaking guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- A strong, helpful porter with his salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel insurance company).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Manang & Mustang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It takes you to the base camp of Mardi Himal, a beautiful peak located to the east of the well-known Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain. The trek offers stunning mountain views, lush forests, and an opportunity to experience the local culture.
How long does the Mardi Himal Trek take?
The duration of the Mardi Himal Trek can vary depending on your itinerary and walking pace. On average, it takes around 6-8 days to complete the trek. However, this can be customized according to your preferences and fitness level.
Is the Mardi Himal Trek difficult?
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek. The trail is well-defined and not too challenging, making it suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness. However, there are some steep sections and higher altitudes, so it is important to be prepared and physically fit before undertaking the trek.
When is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek?
The best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. However, the region is also accessible during the winter (December to February) and monsoon season (June to August), although the weather can be more challenging.
Do I need a permit for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes, you need a permit to trek in the Annapurna region, including the Mardi Himal Trek. The permit required is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs USD 30. Additionally, if you plan to trek beyond Forest Camp (Low Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp), you will also need the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, which costs USD 20.
Are there tea houses or lodges along the trekking route?
Yes, there are tea houses and lodges available along the Mardi Himal Trekking route. These provide basic accommodation and meals for trekkers. However, it is recommended to book in advance during peak season to secure a place to stay.
Can I do the Mardi Himal Trek independently?
Yes, it is possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek independently. The trail is well-marked, and there are tea houses along the way. However, it is still recommended to have a good map or guidebook and some prior trekking experience. Hiring a guide or joining a trekking agency is also an option for a more organized and safe experience.
What should I pack for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Mardi Himal Trek include proper trekking gear, warm clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a hat. It is also advisable to carry some cash, as ATM facilities may be limited in the region.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Mardi Himal Trek?
The maximum altitude reached during the Mardi Himal Trek is at Mardi Himal Base Camp, which stands at an elevation of approximately 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). It is important to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness.
Can I combine the Mardi Himal Trek with other treks in Nepal?
Yes, you can combine the Mardi Himal Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region. One popular option is to start the trek from Kande and then continue on to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This allows you to explore more of the stunning Annapurna region while incorporating the unique experience of the Mardi Himal Trek.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 23 Reviews
Wahab Hassan Butt
Australia
December 21, 2023
A Trekker's Delight
The Marid Himal Trek with Sherpa Expedition was a true delight for any trekking enthusiast. Nepal's rugged landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and the Sherpa team's expertise made it an unforgettable adventure. The sense of achievement upon reaching the summit was unparalleled. This trek is a must-do for those seeking a thrilling experience.
Schnell Sabine
Austria
December 7, 2023
A Journey of Discovery
Embarking on the Marid Himal Trek with Sherpa Expedition was a journey of self-discovery. The challenging trails, breathtaking views, and the Sherpa team's encouragement pushed me beyond my limits. Nepal's natural wonders and cultural richness taught me valuable lessons about resilience and gratitude. This trek will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Wotan Mops
Australia
November 29, 2023
A Cultural Odyssey
Marid Himal Trek with Sherpa Expedition was not only a physical adventure but also a cultural odyssey. Nepal's rich heritage, friendly locals, and the Sherpa team's insights added a unique dimension to the journey. The trek was a perfect blend of nature, history, and warm hospitality. This experience opened my eyes to the beauty of diversity.
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