Top 10 Things to Know Before Going on the Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. It’s a short yet rewarding trek for adventure lovers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

If you're planning to embark on this journey, here are 10 essential things you should know before going on the Mardi Himal Trek:

Mardi Himal High Camp

Trek Duration and Distance

The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes 4 to 7 days, depending on your pace and itinerary. The total distance is around 40–50 km (25–30 miles). Most trekkers start and end their journey in Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city.

Best Time to Trek

The best seasons for the Mardi Himal Trek are:
Spring (March to May) – Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and mild temperatures. Autumn (September to November) – Crisp air, excellent mountain visibility, and pleasant weather

Monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain and leeches, while Winter (December to February) can be challenging due to snowfall at higher altitudes.

Mardi Himal View

Permits Required

To trek in the Mardi Himal region, you need:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Trek Difficulty Level

The Mardi Himal Trek is considered moderate. It involves steep ascents, stone steps, and some ridgeline walks. Although no technical climbing is required, good fitness is necessary for trekking 5-7 hours per day.

Altitude and Acclimatization

The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m / 14,764 ft). While the risk of altitude sickness is lower than in the Everest region, you should still ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

Mardi Himal Route

Trekking Routes and Itinerary

There are different routes, but a common 5-day itinerary is:
 Day 1: Drive to Kande, trek to Pothana (2,050m) or Deurali.
 Day 2: Trek to Forest Camp (2,600m) or Low Camp (3,150m).
 Day 3: Trek to High Camp (3,580m).
Day 4: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and return to Low Camp.
Day 5: Descend to Siding Village, and drive to Pokhara.

For a longer trek, you can take alternative routes via Ghandruk or Landruk.

Accommodation and Food

The trek offers basic tea houses and lodges, providing simple rooms with shared bathrooms. Prices increase as you go higher.

Food options: Dal Bhat (Nepali staple), noodles, soups, momos, fried rice, and omelets. Electricity and hot showers are available but at an extra charge.

Packing Essentials

Your backpack should include:

•  Warm layers (down jacket, fleece, thermal wear).
•  Good trekking shoes and walking poles.
•  Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
•  Water bottle with purification tablets.
• Headlamp and power bank.
• Basic medicines (altitude sickness, pain relief).

Pack light since you'll be carrying your bag unless you hire a porter.

Guide and Porter

The Mardi Himal Trek can be done independently, as the trails are well-marked. However, hiring a guide (around $25–$30/day) helps with navigation and local insights. Porters (around $15–$20/day) can carry up to 20kg, making your trek easier.

Connectivity and Money

Wi-Fi and Mobile Network – Available in tea houses but can be weak at higher altitudes.
ATMs and Payments – Carry enough cash (Nepali Rupees) as there are no ATMs on the trail.

Conclusion

The Mardi Himal Trek is perfect for trekkers looking for a quieter, scenic alternative to Annapurna Base Camp or Everest. It offers diverse landscapes, amazing mountain views, and a rewarding experience without extreme difficulty.

Book Now your Mardi Himal Trek