Trekking to Mardi Himal is a short and wonderful adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is renowned for its serene path, breathtaking mountain views, and natural beauty. For those who like to see the Himalayas without crowds or long walking days, the Mardi Himal trek is ideal.
The trail goes past high ridgelines, mountain villages, and green forests. At about 4,500 meters above sea level, Mardi Himal Base Camp is the trek’s highest point. You can see well-known peaks like Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and Machapuchare (Fishtail) from here.
Why choose the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal trail is less busy than well-known treks like the Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp. Many tourists opt for this trek for a calmer experience. It provides a rich cultural immersion and breathtaking views of the mountains. The trek is simpler to fit into a busy travel itinerary because it is shorter and lasts 8 to 10 days.
Both beginner and seasoned trekkers can enjoy it as technical climbing skills are not required. The trails are clearly defined. You should be reasonably fit and be prepared to walk 5-7 hours a day.
Where does the Mardi Himal Trek begin and end?
The trek begins from Kande, which is an hour’s drive from Pokhara. Many treks begin at Pokhara, a popular tourist destination in Nepal. You travel from Kande to High Camp and then to Mardi Himal Base Camp across ridgelines, villages, and forests.
The trek finishes at a village called Siding. You can return to Pokhara via bus or jeep from there. Depending on their interests and timing, some trekkers also decide to take different ways out.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
- Walking through rhododendron forests, staying in mountain lodges, and enjoying sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayas are all part of the adventure. You can have a wonderful connection with nature on this peaceful walk.
- Meeting the locals from the Gurung and Magar communities is another interesting highlight of this trek. Their warm welcome, modest way of living, and delicious food make the journey significant.
- The teahouses offer simple but comfortable accommodation and serve local dishes. Your backpack will be lighter because you won’t need to bring cooking supplies or tents.
- This trek provides a unique blend of culture, nature, and mountain scenery in a short time. It is perfect for people with little time but still wishing to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas. The Mardi Himal Trek can be a fun, safe, and memorable experience with careful preparation and the right equipment.
Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary
The Mardi Himal Trek is a stunning short trek. You don’t have to walk for many days to get up close to the snow-capped mountains. The route is easy, quiet, and ideal for beginners or anybody seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara
You will start your journey in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. You travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara on the first day. You have different options for transportation:
Tourist Bus: takes about 7-8 hours
Private vehicle: more comfortable and quicker
Flight: 20-30 minutes
Most individuals would rather fly for speed and comfort or take a tourist bus for a less expensive choice. Pokhara is a stunning city surrounded by green hills and close to a lake. It serves as the main entry point for treks in the Annapurna region. Pokhara is where you will spend the night.
Travel from Pokhara to Kande, then Trek to Deurali
Take a car of jeep from Pokhara to Kande in the morning. The trip takes roughly one and a half hours. Your trekking journey starts in Kande. You first climb for around one and a half hours uphill to Australian Camp. After there, walk for 4-5 hours to reach Pothana and then Deurali.
The journey passes through small villages and forest areas. Views of Machapuchare and other mountains will begin to appear. Deurali is a quiet place to spend the night.
Trek from Deurali to Forest Camp
Continue your journey towards the Forest Camp after breakfast. This section of the trail passes through oak and rhododendron forests. You will feel more in one with nature because it’s a peaceful trail with few trekkers. It will take around 5-6 hours of walking. You might sport little animals and wild birds. At Forest Camp, there are a few teahouses. You can enjoy the tranquil surroundings and rest well at Forest Camp.
Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp
You continue climbing and gain some altitude today. You first arrive at Low Camp in roughly two hours. After that, it will take 3-4 more hours to trek to High Camp.
There are fewer trees and larger views. You may enjoy expansive views of the deep valley below and the Annapurna range on a clear day. Before arriving at Mardi Himal Base Camp, your base is High Camp. Dress warmly because it’s freezing here.
Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and back to High Camp
This day is the most thrilling day of this trek. To catch the sunrise, you climb to Mardi Himal Base Camp early in the morning. The trip to the base camp takes roughly three hours. In certain places, the trail is steep and narrow. Beautiful up-close views of Machhapuchare, Annapurna South, and other peaks can be seen from the summit.
Take pictures and savor the moment after spending some time at the summit. Next, return by foot to High Camp for lunch and a night’s sleep.
Trek down to Siding Village
It’s time to descend after getting a close-up look at the mountains. You walk on a different path that goes through fields and forests. It takes five to six hours to walk to Siding Village. The village is serene and lovely, and the locals are welcoming. You have the opportunity to observe the livelihood of people in rural Nepal. In the village, you’ll stay in a teahouse or a homestay.
Travel from Siding Village to Pokhara
Bid farewell to the mountains and return to Pokhara by car in the morning. The road is scenic yet rough. You will drive for about 3 hours in a jeep. You will be free to unwind in Pokhara in the afternoon. You can dine well, take a hot shower, and enjoy the lakeside in Pokhara. It is a pleasant way to finish the journey.
Travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu
It is time to head back to Kathmandu. Once more, you can choose a tourist bus, a private vehicle, or a domestic flight.
Your Mardi Himal trekking adventure comes to an end at this point.
Optional Itinerary Adjustments
The Mardi Himal Trek is flexible. You can alter your itinerary based on your travel preferences, time constraints, and level of fitness. An additional day between Forest Camp and High Camp might be added for a more leisurely and slower walk. This increases the trek’s safety and enjoyment by giving your body more time to acclimate to higher elevations.
To observe the mountain vistas, relax, and discover more of the serene surroundings, some trekkers prefer to stay an additional night at either Low Camp or High Camp. On the way down, you can choose a different path, like walking through Landruk village rather than Siding. You can see more of the local villages and culture in this way.
Another alternative is starting the trek from Australian Camp or Pothana rather than Kande. You can shorten the route by skipping some overnight stops if you have limited time.
You can modify your plan to suit your needs with the help of a trusted local agency like Nepal Trekking Routes. The Mardi Himal Trek can be tailored to your preferences, whether you are looking for a leisurely journey or an energetic one.
Required Trekking Permits for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you will need two important trekking permits: ACAP and TIMS.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The region is protected to preserve native culture, wildlife, and the environment. The funds from this permit support nearby villages, clear up trash, and maintain paths.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS): This permit helps rescue crews and the government in monitoring who is trekking and where. In case of injury or loss, it is helpful for safety. It contains your trekking route, emergency contact information, and basic personal information.
Both permits are available at the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara. A copy of your passport and several passport-sized pictures are required. You won’t have to worry about the paperwork if you choose our company.
Keep these permits safe and carry them with you every day, as they are examined at many places along the path. You cannot access the trekking area without these permissions. They ensure ethical trekking in Nepal.
Cost Breakdown for Mardi Himal Trek
“How much will it cost?” is one of the most common queries people have when planning a trek like Mardi Himal. Each person may have a different response. Whether you go alone or with a guide, how you travel, where you stay, and how comfortable you want, are the factors that affect the cost of the trek.
In this blog, we will outline all the major expenses you will incur when trekking the Mardi Himal. This will help you to understand where your money is going and in organizing a trek that fits your budget.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Permits Costs
Mardi Himal Trek requires an ACAP Permit and a TIMS Card. You can get both permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara. If you book a trekking package with our agency, Nepal Trekking Routes, the permit cost will be included in the package cost.
Guide and Porter Cost
Although the Mardi Himal trek can be completed alone, many people opt to travel with a porter, guide, or both.
A guide is someone familiar with the route, speaks the language, and can explain about village life, villages, and mountains. Also, he keeps you safe during weather changes, illness, or exhaustion.
To make the trek easier, a porter carries your heavy load. This is useful for long days or on steep trails. Hiring a guide or porter helps the local community by supporting the local economy. You can share the cost if you are trekking in a group.
The cost of a guide and a porter is also included in most trekking packages.
Accommodation Cost
You will stay in teahouses, which are small lodges owned and run by local people along the route. They have simple rooms with a tiny table, two beds, and a window. Although blankets are provided with beds, it is a good idea to pack your sleeping bag. Most bathrooms are shared, and some locations charge more for hot showers. Because it is more difficult to deliver goods to higher and remote areas, costs may rise as you continue up the path. Although you shouldn’t expect the luxury, the teahouses are warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and polite. The cost of accommodation is included in the trekking package provided by most trekking companies.
Food and Drink Cost
Teahouses also serve food, and most places have a menu. Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, soups, pancakes, eggs, and momos are the most popular and filling meals.
Tea, coffee, and bottled water are also available at lower altitudes. These are less expensive, but as you go higher, the cost increases because everything must be carried by mules or people. You can save money by drinking purified water rather than purchasing a bottled water filter. Snacks like chocolates, chips, and soft drinks are also available, but they are more expensive in the mountains. You can bring some from Pokhara to save money.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are covered by the package cost. You will need extra money to eat in between meals.
Transportation Cost
From Pokhara to Kande, the Mardi Himal Trek often begins with a short drive. After that you start to walk. You will reach a village like Siding, from where you can take a jeep or local transport back to Pokhara. You can get there by:
- Local buses: They are inexpensive but crowded and slow.
- Shared Jeeps: They are economical and quicker.
- Private Jeeps: They are more costly but comfortable.
Transportation is handled for you if you are trekking with Nepal Trekking Routes. This simplifies things, particularly in remote villages where finding a ride might be challenging.
Trekking Gear Cost
You need the appropriate gear and clothes to be warm and safe. This comprises trekking boots, warm jacket, sleeping bag, hats, thermal layers, gloves, trekking poles, headlight, water bottle, rain gear etc.
Don’t worry if you don’t own everything! In Kathmandu or Pokhara, you can rent some gear. For a short trek like Mardi Himal, renting is a great way to save money.
Travel Insurance cost
Having travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and high-altitude trekking is important. The expenses can be high if you become ill, injured, or require a helicopter lift. Having insurance provides peace of mind and protection. Verify that trekking beyond 4,000 meters is covered by your policy.
Knowing the cost breakdown enables you to plan this unforgettable Himalayan journey. We are an excellent local business providing personalized treks if you want everything planned for you. The cost of the 10-day Mardi Himal Trek package is $690. This includes permits, transportation, accommodation, food, and guides.
Guided Trek Package vs. Independent Trek
When planning the Mardi Himal Trek, the cost depends on whether you trek independently or book a guided trekking package.
Independent Trek
Trekking by yourself can be thrilling. You are in control of how fast you go and where you want to stop. Since, you won’t be paying for a guide or porter, it can also be less expensive. But there are drawbacks as well.
It can be confusing at times to find the trail. Despite the well-marked trails of Mardi Himal, there are still occasionally unclear or missing signs. This could be a problem if you cannot read maps or are new to trekking. Permits, transportation, teahouse reservations, packing your backpack, and keeping an eye on your health are all things you must do on your own. There is no one to assist you if the weather changes or you get ill when at high elevation.
Therefore, for seasoned trekkers who are comfortable in the mountains, solo trekking is ideal.
A Guided Trekking Package
Using our company is a great option if you want a stress-free trip. We take care of everything for you, including transportation, permits, lodging, meals, and more. Our guide will ensure your safety. They will help you identify mountain peaks and explain the local way of life. Your large backpack can be carried by a porter, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without getting tired.
Many trekkers believe that hiring a guide is worth the money, although it is more expensive than going alone. You help the local economy and don’t have to worry about logistics.
Both choices are great for a unique experience. If you are experienced and enjoy independence, go it alone. However, if you want peace of mind, safety, and local expertise, book the package and go with a guide.
Tips for saving money on the Mardi Himal Trek
It is a smart idea to manage your budget, although this trek is less expensive and shorter than other treks in Nepal. These tips will help you enjoy the trip while saving money.
Trek in a Group
You can share expenses like transportation, guides, and porters if you travel with friends or join a group. Everyone’s price goes down as a result. You can ask our company for a group trek. You can join if you are travelling alone, but still want to save money while trekking.
Carry Reusable Items
Bring a water purifier (such as tablets or a filter) and a reusable container. It is costly and environmentally harmful to purchase bottled water while trekking. Every day, a purifier will save you money. Also, you can bring some snacks from Pokhara, such as chocolate, nuts, or energy bars. Higher elevation teahouses charge more for snacks.
Pack Light but Right
To avoid an additional porter, pack lightly. However, be sure to pack a decent sleeping bag, rain gear, and warm clothing. If you don’t prefer to buy these, you can rent them from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Making sensible packing choices keeps you comfortable and saves money.
Be aware of extra costs in Teahouses
Basic accommodations and meals are reasonably priced at teahouses, but little extras can add up. Hot water, Wi-Fi, and phone charging are typically more expensive. It is not much, but it builds up over a few days. Keep a power bank with you and be prepared to go many days without using the internet.
Select a Local Agency or Guide
Prices from local agencies are lower than those from international booking sites. Everything can be organized at a reasonable price by our reputable company. We support the local economy and are familiar with the route. You can inquire with us about the package’s included permits, food, transportation, etc., so you can compare it to trekking alone.
Be Flexible
Hotels and guides may be less expensive if you trek during off-peak seasons, such as the winter or late summer. Deals on flights and equipment rentals may also be available.
Keep in mind that cheaper is not always better. Be sure you are ready for more challenging situations.
Conclusion: Mardi Himal Trek Cost and Itinerary
The Mardi Himal Trek is a short adventure in the Annapurna region. It is ideal for both beginners and seasoned trekkers who enjoy peaceful trails, green forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The itinerary of the trek lasts 8-10 days.
The cost of the trek varies depending on many things, including permits, transport, food, guides, and hotel. With smart budgeting, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. You can trek alone or with a group. It is easier to work if you choose our company. We offer assistance with transportation, permits, accommodation, and food. Our guides share local stories and ensure your safety.
Mardi Himal Trek is one of the top short treks of Nepal. It is an excellent option if you are searching for an affordable and fulfilling journey.
