Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

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Mardi Himal Trek is one of the hidden gems in the Annapurna region. This short trek allows you to see the Annapurna range from a variety of perspectives. Because it was just opened after 2012, the Annapurna circuit‘s Mardi Himal is a lesser-known location. In a short amount of time, trekkers will be able to see natural and cultural landscapes, intriguing communities, valleys, terraced fields, amazing rivers, and spectacular vistas of the Annapurna, Machhapuchre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli mountains. The Mardi Himal trek is the perfect option for hikers with limited time but who do not want to lose out on the Nepalese trekking experience. The four-day walk will take you to one of the most breathtaking Himalayan views.

The journey begins in Kathmandu, with a flight or a drive to Pokhara. Following a picturesque drive to Kande, we will begin our 2 hours climb to the Australian camp. The camp is one of the best places to see the Himalayas’ panoramic snow-capped mountains. We hike from the Australian camp to the Forest camp via an off-the-beaten-path route with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains. Similarly, as we make our way to the upper camp, we come across a variety of plants along the pathways. The journey from Mardi Himal High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp takes about 3-4 hours. Mardi Himal, Hiumchuli, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, and other spectacular vistas may be seen from this vantage point. We return to the Kande via low camp by retracing our route.

Because the Gurung people make up the majority of the region’s residents, trekking across the high passes allows people to learn about their customs and heritage. The routes lead trekkers through picturesque communities where they can meet indigenous tribes and see their everyday lives, which are very different from what they see in the contemporary world. Although the route was in the middle of nowhere, the campers’ lodges provided the most basic amenities. Even such minimal facilities are a blessing in disguise after a long day of traveling.

Mardi Himal is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you to breathtaking vistas. The ideal periods to trek to Mardi Himal are spring (March to May) and fall (mid-September to November). During these two seasons, the best views, the most consistent climate patterns, and sunny skies are accessible. Although altitude sickness is uncommon in these places, an oxygen supplement can be supplied in an emergency.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore the spectacular Annapurna region in 5 days.  
  • The authentic taste of the Himalayan charm
  • Witness the breathtaking views, Nepali culture, and diverse terrain. 
  • Visit cultural, historical, natural, and religious shrines, heritage sites s in Kathmandu and Pokhara,
  • Walkthrough a stunning valley of rhododendron forests 
  • Opportunity to learn about different people’s cultures, traditions, lifestyles, and languages.
  • Immerse in a real cultural experience and delve deeper into the local community’s way of life.
  • Explore the stunning biodiversity diversities in the region 
  • Witness the stunning mountain range of Annapurna range, Lamjung Himal, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Macchapuchhre, and Manaslu, Hiumchuli.

How long is the Mardi Himal Trek? 

The Mardi Himal trek is a ten-day journey that includes around six days of walking. However, depending on your preferences, this voyage can be cut short. A new trekking route to Mardi Himal has recently been built. 

Starting in Melbot in Pokhara Metropolitan City, the 500-meter route passes through Astam, Dhital, Dhampus, Pritam Deurali, Dhital, and Kalimati. As a result, the journey is considerably shorter. To embark on this route, they can drive from Dhampus, Kalimati, or Siding to Australian Camp. By taking a helicopter tour to Mardi Himal, you may be able to cut your journey time in half.

How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?

This moderately difficult hike is suitable for everyone who is in a healthy condition. Workout and adaptation to elevation are, however, recommended. Physical preparation, such as daily walking, aerobics, and resistance training, may aid in the maintenance of your body’s stamina. On the other side, the challenge requires a six-hour climb up and across steep terrain. In a short length of time, the drive takes you to spectacular landscapes and a magnificent mountain range. As a result, the difficult journey is well worth it.

How much does it cost for Mardi Himal Trek?

The cost of a Mardi Himal walk is determined by several factors, including food and lodging, the length of the trek,  and so on. The package can be modified according to your needs with varying levels of amenities and prices. In comparison to other Base Camp treks such as the Annapurna Base Camp trek and Everest Base Camp trek, this walk is less expensive. This stunning hike is suitable for travelers on a budget and with limited time on their hands.

Because the location is isolated and in the middle of the Himalayas, the cost of accommodation is lower than in the city. The lodging, on the other hand, provides basic comforts as well as regional specialties. As we progress to the top region, the cost of food rises. This is because the porter carries everything from the bottom to the top. Indulging in such delectable cuisine in the Himalayan foothills is well worth it.

Much of the cost of the all inclusive tour includes:

  • Airport arrival and departure
  • Teahouse accommodation on the trek
  • A route map
  • English-speaking trekking guide with a permit to assist with lodging, transportation, meals, and wage reimbursement. 
  • Full board (breakfast, lunch, and supper) in the Himalayan foothills. 
  • A route on a map. 
  • Tea house lodging with twin-sharing rooms 
  • The state-mandated local village tax and VAT. 
  • In the event of an emergency, the guide carries a medical kit.

An expedition to the Mardi Himal is only possible with proper permission. Hikers, unlike those on an all-inclusive tour, must pay a permit charge such as:

  • The Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) 
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

Hiking in a distant location carries a lot of risks that demand purchasing insurance. If your insurance policy allows it, there are evacuation services available in the event of an emergency.

Best season for Mardi Himal Trek 

Autumn and Spring are the ideal seasons to hike when there is consistent weather conditions. However, this is the busiest time of year for trekking. Due to excessive rainfall, the region is wet and slick throughout the summer and monsoons (June to August). The temperature at the Mardi Base Camp drops below 0 degrees in the winter (December to February). The winter routes make the journey even more challenging by increasing the odds of thickly snow-covered passes. Even if the Himalayas offer stunning scenery and clear skies in the winter, it is still too chilly for a trekker to embark on this adventure.

Mardi Himal Trek Route From Pokhara 

The Mardi Himal trip begins in Pokhara, which is located east of the Annapurna Base Camp hike. Starting your journey from Pokhara, you may be able to cut your travel time. You will have plenty of time to sightsee within the city before beginning your journey the next day.

 


Trip Details

  Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
  • Day 02 ‐ City Tour in Kathmandu & preparation day for the trek
  • Day 03 ‐ Fly to Pokhara and drive Dhampus and trek to Pitam Deurali
  • Day 04 ‐ Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m)
  • Day 05 ‐ Trek to Badal Danda (3,150m)
  • Day 06‐ Trek to High Camp (3,550m)
  • Day 07‐ Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,250m)
  • Day 08‐ Trek to Siding village (1,750m)
  • Day 9‐ Trek to Saidi Ghatta-3KM and drive to Pokhara
  • Day 10‐ Fly back to Kathmandu
  • Day 11‐Departure for home

Itinerary

    • Peak promotion representative will be at airport to pick up you to the hotel. After reaching hotel we will introduce our guide and short briefing about the trek. Our guide will check your trekking equipment that you have so you can also buy/rent trekking gears in Kathmandu for your convenient.

    • In the morning we begin tour around Kathmandu with Peak Promotion’s renowned guide. Kathmandu has many historic, religious and architectural places to visit. Swayambunath (Buddhists shrine, also called monkey temple), Boudhanath (Tibetan Buddhism beliefs) and Pashupati Nath (Hindu’s greatest pilgrimage site) are the highlights of the tour. After tour, in the evening we will introduce our guide and short briefing about the trek. Our guide will check your trekking equipment to make sure that you have all gears/stuff. You can also buy or hire equipment in Kathmandu for your convenient.

      Included meals: Breakfast

       

    • After having breakfast, we will take a short 25 min flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara and take a private vehicle to the start point-Dhampus (1.5 hours) and then begin our trek passing local villages until we reach Pothana, our lunch stop. If the weather is clear, we will be able to see magnificent views of the Annapurna mountain range. A gentle incline after lunch brings us to Pitam Deurali where we will stay for the night.

      Distance: 3 KM

      Hours: 3-4 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • A steep uphill climb for most of the day through thick jungle with beautiful views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. We may be lucky to catch glimpses of some of the abundant wildlife; leopards, deer, monkeys and many species of birds all live in this dense jungle. We reach Forest Camp in the afternoon.

      Distance: 7 KM

      Hours: 5 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • Today is a short distance but a steep climb through the rhododendron and juniper forest. We can stop at Low Camp for Lunch or at Badal Danda depending the situation. As you reach the top, you will be rewarded with the most breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and Annapurna ranges.

      Distance: 4 KM

      Hours: 4 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • This day is short too. We will get to High Camp for lunch. On the way up you will have good views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tare Kang and Khangsar to the north.

      Distance: 2 KM

      Hours: 3 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • Early in the morning (3/4 AM) we climb up to the View Point for spectacular sunrise views of the mighty Himalayas, it takes 3 hours approximately to reach View Point and 2 more hours to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. A challenging day walking along narrow, rocky trails, but all will be worth it for the spectacular views of this majestic mountain. This day, if the weather is clear you will get to see up close Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Tare Kang, Khangsar, Annapurna III and Fish Tail.

      Distance: 8 KM

      Hours: 7 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • Today after having breakfast, we will trek down to Siding village via low camp and then head southeast from the ridge through the dense forest towards Mardi Khola. After a delightful walk along the river and the forest, we will reach a warm and hospitable village of Siding.

      Distance: 9 KM

      Hours: 6 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • Today is our final day of the trek, we will walk for about 2 hours down to Saidi Ghatta  via Mardi Khola where we will meet our transport back to Pokhara, which is about a 2-hour drive.  We will be back in Pokhara in time for lunch.  We will have free time to explore Pokhara Lake side in evening.

      Distance: 3 KM

      Hours: 2 Hours

      Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and boiled water

    • After having breakfast we will fly back to Kathmandu. And it is free/shopping day in Kathmandu followed by farewell dinner in the evening at authentic Nepali restaurant with cultural shows.

      Meals: Breakfast & farewell dinner

    • Today is final departure to your home country. Our staff will be at hotel to help you to the airport and give you Khada, for good luck.

      Meals: Breakfast

Inclusion & exclusion

Cost Includes:
    • All airport/hotel transfers
    • 2 nights in Hotel Manaslu in Kathmandu & 1 night in Hotel Iceland in Pokhara on twin sharing basis with breakfast
    • A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide, Transportations and entrance fees
    • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu flight ticket
    • Pokhara-Dhampus and Saidi Ghatta-Pokhara jeep transportation cost
    • Food and accommodation during trekking on full board basis (BLD & boiled water)
    • An experienced trekking & climbing guide and porters to carry luggage including their salary, insurance, equipment, transportation, food and lodging
    • All necessary paper works (ACAP and TIMS card)
    • Peak Promotion Trekking duffel bag, cap and trekking map
    • Hand sanitizer and toilet papers
    • First Aid Kit
    • 1 Set Oxygen for in case of emergency use(Subject to charge $500 if used)
    • Satellite phone for emergency call
    • Daily dispatch on our website
    • Travel and rescue arrangements
    • Insurance of Nepali staff
    • Special Farewell Dinner
Cost Excludes:
    • International flight tickets
    • Nepal Visa fee
    • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
    • Personal trekking gear
    • Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast and farewell dinner)
    • Alcohol and Beverages during the trek
    • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, shower etc.)
    • Emergency Medical Evacuation Cost
    • Tips for guide, porters and driver