Mardi Himal Trek is a trek that is coming up in fashion among every nature lover. Located on the east side of the popular Annapurna Base Camp and just under the eye-striking Mount Machhapuchhre(Fishtail), the Mardi Himal Trek welcomes thousands of trekkers every year and numbers do not seem to stop.
Mardi Himal Trek is doable throughout the year if you have the right plan and preparation. Autumn and Spring months are the busiest months for Mardi Himal Trek. December, the first month of the Winter season, is desired by only a few adventurers. Mardi Himal Trek in December is a blessing for any trekker. The less crowded trails and chilly wind of December pose different impressions than other months.
Doing Mardi Himal Trek in December makes you enjoy nature in peace. The natural beauty of Mardi Trek is just awesome. Trails are through the dense and beautiful forest of Annapurna Conservation Area. The half of the trek is amidst lush trees where there is true nature smell. Out from the woods, the view of long and snowy
Annapurna and other mountain ranges is truly blissful. The visions of these same mountains from Mardi Himal Low camp and High camp is the main reason why people are longing for Mardi Himal Trek so badly. And particularly December’s peak view is of another level with layers of snow decorating the peaks and terrains just like the bride. Mardi Himal Trek is one of the shortest treks but the beauty that it has is not short, it’s abundant.
The chapters of Mardi Himal Trek are not only about forests and mountains. The cultural beauty of the Annapurna region is another thing that makes Mardi Himal Trek worthwhile. Some parts of the Mardi Himal trail run through traditional settlements of Gurung and Tamang tribes. The way they celebrate their life, cultures and traditions is so unique that it deserves attention. So, this is what Mardi Himal Trek makes you do, to explore the cultures and lifestyles.
You can do Mardi Himal Trek anytime you like. It is a different trekking experience in each of the months. Some months are warmer, some are cloudy, some are rainy, some are cold. Each of them is different from one another. In the same way, the Mardi Himal Trek in December is identical in its own way. Every single trekking month has some pros and some cons too. So, is the December month, very unique and uncommon to other months
This article is all about Mardi Himal Trek during the days of December. It contains all the facts and information about what it’s like to trek Mardi Himal trails during December.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
- Breathtaking views of Mt Machhapuchhre(6,993m), Mt Annapurna(8,091m), Mt Manaslu(8,156m), Mt Dhaulagiri(8,167m), and several others.
- Trek through the enriched and green vegetation of Annapurna region
- Explore the most unique Gurung’s, Magar’s, and Tamang’s lifestyles and culture
- Heavenly sunrise and mountain view from Mardi Low camp and Base Camp
- Best alternative to the busiest Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek
Outlined Itinerary for Mardi Himal Trek in December
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi and Trek from Phedi to Dhampus
Starts from: Pokhara(1400m)
Drive distance: 18 km | Drive time: 1 hour
Trek distance: 3 km | Trek time: 2 to 3 hours
Ends/Overnight in: Dhampus(1600m)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 02: Trek from Dhampus to Forest Camp
Starts from: Dhampus(1600m)
Trek distance: 10 km | Trek time: 3 to 4 hours
Ends/Overnight in: Forest Camp(2,550m)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 03: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp
Starts from: Forest Camp(2550m)
Trek distance: 8.5 km | Trek time: 3 to 4 hours
Ends/Overnight in: High Camp(3550m)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 04: Trek from High Camp to Base Camp and return to High Camp
Starts from: High Camp(3550m)
Trek distance: 9 km | Trek time: 5 to 6 hours
Ends/Overnight in: High Camp(3550m)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 05: Trek from High Camp to Siding
Starts from: High Camp(3550m)
Trek distance: 8.5 km | Trek time: 4 to 5 hours
Ends/Overnight in: Siding(1885m)
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 06: Trek from Siding to Lwang and drive to Pokhara
Starts from: Siding(1885m)
Trek Distance: 10km | Trek Time: 2 to 3 hours
Drive distance: 18 km | Drive time: 4 hour
Ends/Overnight in: Pokhara(1400m)
Accommodation: Hotel
Weather and Climate of Mardi Himal Trek in December

December is the very first month of Winter, the surrounding starts to turn colder slowly from warm days of Autumn. Early-December’s temperature is pretty mixed up with a blend of two seasons, not too cold and not too warm. In overall, the temperature of the first few weeks of December is not that cold but the temperature starts to drop as it approaches towards the month-end.
Days of December are normally warm as compared with cold and chilly night and morning times. The normal daytime temperature revolves around 5 to 10°C and night/morning time temperature can drop to -5°C. Also, always remember that the temperature starts to fall with an increase in altitudes(5°C with every 1000m).
Hence, the lower regions of the Mardi region are much warmer than the higher parts. Some parts of the trek can be covered with snow belts during December. December’s snowfall is not that dense, it can be walked with the right snow gears. Snowfall is not that bad rather it adds the beauty of beautiful mountains with whitish makeup.
Talking about rainfall, December is the driest month of all, so very few chances of rain showers. The only problem for Mardi Himal Trek in December is a bit of cold temperature and unforeseen snowfall. Other than the cold, the days are bright and bearable for trekking and enjoying the views. So, December is not the wrong time but the less-dared trekking month.
Foods and drinks facilities during Mardi Himal Trek in December
Food is not a problem throughout the Mardi Himal Trek route. The tea houses/lodges are scattered all over the trails within a short distance. These teahouses of Mardi regions provide varied food and limited beverages menus.
Talking about food items, you’ll get recipes of Nepalese(Local), Chinese, Indian, and Western Continental food. The Nepali Dal Bhat is the most popular trekking food in Mardi Himal trails. Dal Bhat(Rice and Lentil) is food set containing rice, lentil, vegetable, pickle all in a single plate. It is a popular saying among locals “ Dal Bhat Power, 24 hours”, which means one full plate of Dal Bhat can work for one whole day. Dal Bhat set costs around NPR 350 to 700(around 3 to 7$) for veg menu and NPR 450 to 900(around 4 to 9$) for the non-veg (meat) menu.
Other than a proper Dal Bhat meal, you’ll also get served recipes like porridge, cornbread, boiled potatoes, fried Noodles(Spaghetti), Fried rice, pasta, etc. These items can cost you anywhere between 3 to 6$ per item. Similarly, the drink items like tea, coffee, soft drinks, energy drinks are also available in the teahouses of Mardi Trek. The teahouses of Mardi regions are open throughout the month of December. So, no need to worry about the foods and drinks facilities during Mardi Himal trek.
Accommodation facilities during the in December
Accommodation services en route to Mardi Himal Trek are satisfactory. The cost of lodging is economic, i.e. NPR 300 to 500(around 3 to 5$) per night. The tea houses/lodges provide comfortable shareable rooms with bathrooms. You will get facilities like dining, hot showers, charging in these lodges. To get these services, you have to pay extra money along with accommodation charges.
However, the cost of lodges increases with altitude. The lower region’s lodges are cheaper in comparison to the higher area’s lodges. Lodges are open throughout December as they await for welcoming peace-loving trekkers. Owners are also very humble and welcoming, you’ll experience the hospitality of rural Nepalis.
Packing List for December Mardi Himal Trek

What should I pack in the bag? It’s probably the head-itching question before any kind of trek. And, it is a bit tricky here for Mardi Himal Trek December. December shows the attributes of two seasons, i.e. Autumn and Winter. So, it’s more difficult to decide on what items to include during December trek. Don’t worry! Why are we here? We are providing a full packing list for Mardi Himal Trek December, check it down below:
Headwear
- Sun hat
- Warm hat
- Beanie
- Sunglasses(UV protected)
- Prescription glasses(If only you use)
Upper Body
- Down jacket
- Hiking T-shirt
- Half-down jacket
- Thermal layer
- Fleece jacket
- Pullover or sweater
- Fleece windcheater jacket
- Waterproof jacket
Lower Body
- Breathable undergarments
- Light trekking long pants
- Thermal bottoms
- Fleece trouser/track pants
- Water/windproof pants
Handwear
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens
- Waterproof shell outer
Footwear
- Light inner socks
- Trekking socks
- Strong and comfortable hiking boots
- Loafers/sandals
- Gaiters
- Crampons(for snowy trails)
Accessories
- Sleeping bag(-10C)
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Trekking Bag
- Basic First Aid Box
- Hiking daypack
- Trekking sticks
- Water bottle
- Thermal water bottle(for hot water)
Toiletries and Personal Hygiene
- Rapid drying towel
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoos and soaps
- Deodorants
- Room freshener
- Face moisturizer
- Lip Balm
- Cold cream
- Sunscreen
- Wet wipes
- Toilet roll
- Hand sanitizer
- Water purification tablet
- Female Hygiene products
Why do Mardi Himal Trek in December?

The kind of trekking experience you get highly depends on which month you are picking. Every month has its own perks and advantages. So does the December have, Here are the few reasons why Mardi Himal Trek December is the best:
Peaceful Trails
Peace is what you get while trekking Mardi Himal in December. The trails are very-less crowded and occupied by trekkers. You can just trek on your own with yourself and your company. Enjoying nature in a sense of peace and serenity is why the people pick December. It is not the same case in other months like September, October, November. These are the peak seasons and trails are mostly crowded with a number of trekkers. So, to avoid the crowd and enjoy nature, December is the month you should pick.
No Rainfall No problem
Rainfall is the main problem of any outing adventure. Rainfall makes trekking tracks muddy and slippery, who wants to walk on such trails, probably no one. However, December is a dry month and Mardi Himal region lies in a rain shadow area. So, there are no or very few chances of rainshower and overclouds during this month. The trails are dry and easy to trek on during December. Why miss such pleasant trails, go for it.
Fair Visibility
December also serves the clear and bright visibility of the surrounding. The only thing that blocks the view is the rainfall clouds. But, December is a dry month so no rain clouds just clear visibility of the beautiful Mardi Himal region. You can observe the snow covered mountains just under the blue skies. Enjoying the clear eyeshot of the Mardi Himal area in a chilly winter is a different kind of experience.
Snow-decorated view
Winter is a season of snowfall in higher regions, i.e. above 4500m. The snow starts to shower on the high hills and mountains during December days. You will get to enjoy the breathtaking views of recently snow-covered peaks. Snow is a thing that makes mountains picturesque. December’s snowfall decorates the mountain like a bride. Don’t you want to see Himalayan bride? Do Mardi Himal Trek December and enjoy the show.
Easy-peasy Accommodations
Getting the right Accommodation is a very difficult thing on Mardi Himal Trek. But, it’s not a problem during December. You can choose any kind of available accommodations in December. The trails and lodges are peaceful and less-occupied by the trekkers throughout the December and other winter months. So, you don’t have to strive for getting accommodation like in peak months of Mardi Himal trek.
Difficulties during Mardi Himal Trek in December

Everything in this world has some flaws. How can December escape? There are some problems and difficulties that trekkers can face during Mardi Himal adventure in December:
Altitude
The altitude of Mardi Himal trek can be a problem to some of the trekkers, not all. Altitude sickness is real and can hit anyone who is not used to higher altitudes.
Mardi Himal Trek is also one of the high altitude treks. This trek’s highest point is 4500m, which is considered as a high altitude for foreign and unfamiliar people.
However, Mardi Trek is not that high altitude trek if compared to other treks like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek (these are 5000m+ treks).
So, there is always a fear of Altitude sickness during Mardi Trek.
Distance
Mardi Himal Trek distance can be a problem for someone who is not used to trekking. This trek covers a round distance of 65 km which you have to complete on foot. The trails are also not easy, mainly through rough and rugged uphills. And in December, there are chances of the thin snow layer over the trails also. Everyone is not used to such trekking trails. So, it can be the problem in Mardi Himal Trek.
Temperature
December alarms the start of the Winter season. With the arrival of winter, the temperature begins to drop and become cold and chilly. The temperature of higher areas is even colder than the lower areas. Especially, the morning and night time temperature is challenging as it drops to the freezing point, i.e. up to -5°C.
Hence, the cold temperature can be a problem for trekkers that are not used to cold and harsh temperatures.
Handful Tips for Mardi Himal Trek December

Pack Wisely
Backpacking is the most important thing to consider before Mardi Himal Trek in December. December is a cold month to travel, so you have to pack the backpack accordingly. Right clothing and equipment come very handy in beating the harsh temperature of winter. So, include all the necessary and appropriate equipment needed for the trek. Don’t make the bag heavy with unnecessary items, pack wisely and smartly.
Avoid Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is prone to anyone trekking above 3000m. So, try to avoid the symptoms of Altitude sickness by drinking water and taking rests. The body in higher altitudes quickly dehydrates and dehydration is the main arousal of altitude sickness.
So, keep a water bottle beside you always on the trek and drink it regularly. It is the best way to escape from altitude sickness. In case of any serious symptoms of altitude sickness like nausea, vomiting, headaches it is better to fall down to the lower regions.
Wear the Right gears
December is a cold time to trek. So, wear the appropriate winter gears to avoid the cold and chilly weather of December. You should wear layered, warm and thick clothes on Mardi Himal Trek. It is colder in higher parts of Mardi Himal Trek, so wear the right clothing. Also, wear some snow gear as well like gaiters, crampons to walk easily on the snowy trails.
Be up-to-date with Weather
Being up to date with the climate and weather of the Mardi Himal region keeps you one step ahead from harsh conditions. The weather of the higher region is quite unpredictable which can change anytime. But the knowledge about climate gives a closer vision of future climate. So, with that vision, you can plan and trek safely.
Start Early
Winter days are shorter as compared to other month’s days. With shorter days, you have a time limit for the trek to reach the overnight destination before dusk. Also, you will have a shorter time to enjoy and get lost in the views. But, if you start the trek early then you will have enough time to observe the views and to trek. The energy level at early morning is also higher, you will cover a long distance within the first hours of the day. And, you can enjoy the rest of the time just to observe and take the picture of the views.
Additional tips for Mardi Himal Trek December
- Use trekking sticks and crampon while trekking on snowy trails
- Pick the strong and quality grip trekking shoes
- Go through all the packing list again to confirm
- Carry some dry foods and energy bars
- Don’t rush, do the trek easily with regular rests
- Carry down jackets and sleeping bags for extra warm
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Conclusion
Mardi Himal Trek is a short and beautiful escape to the naturalistic Annapurna region. It is possible to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mardi Himal area anytime with better plans and preparations. And, Mardi Himal Trek in December is possible and workable. The cold temperature has always been there in the Himalayas. If you have the right plan and gears, the Mardi Himal Trek during December is best in its own way.