Mardi Himal Trek

Autumn and spring are the best times to take the Mardi Himal Trek because of the clear skies and pleasant temperature. The seasons are also the busiest, so if you like fewer crowds, trek a couple of weeks earlier or later.

Monsoon (June to August) has hot, humid weather, and heavy rains, making the trails slippery and muddy. Despite that, the landscape becomes green and lush. This time of the year is far less busy, but essential rain gear is a must. Daytime temperatures being around 10 to 23 °C can be warmer, and cold nighttime temperature ranges from 10 to 15 °C.

Winter, December through February brings cold temperatures between -5°C to 12°C and snow could also occur. The trails are slippery and uncomfortable, but the snow-covered scenery is breathtaking. Get yourself cozy with warm layered clothing and good planning. The temperature can significantly drop after December 15, so it is best to avoid trekking around that time and after.

Spring is a season full of festivals such as Holi and Buddha Jayanti, which are celebrated in the region. Festive seasons, enriching the chance to meet with locals and engage with them make it one of the best seasons to trek. During this season, the forested lands along the Mardi Himal trail turn more prettier with the rhododendrons blooming all bright. With more trekkers drawn to these seasons, the trails can be very lively, and the weather and cultural experiences mean these should be the best times to visit. Temperatures are also mild, from 17 to 20 °C in the day to 0 to 5 °C at night.

The Mardi Himal Trek is best in Autumn, from September to November when skies are clear and weather stable and there are breathtaking mountain views to enjoy. Temperatures of day range from 20 °C, and 10 °C at night. That’s when it coincides with major festivals like Dashain and Tihar, which provide trekkers the opportunity to experience beautiful nature and Nepalese traditions.

The Mardi Himal trek experiences different weather conditions over the year. In Spring (March to May), mild daytime temperatures (around 10°C to 20°C), cool nights (around 0°C to 5°C) at higher elevations, and clear skies with sprouting flora make this the best season for trekking.

During Monsoon (June to August), the temperatures are warmest (15°C to 25°C) at lower elevations and nights are cool (5°C to 10°C). But monsoon’s heavy rainfall results in very slippery trails, and has frequent chances for injuries.

The dry and the best season, Autumn (September to November) has a daytime climate (around 10°C to 20°C), perfect for trekking, but it can get cooler at night (around 0°C to 5°C). Between December and February, the Winter season, temperature is cold during the daytime (5°C to 15°C) at lower altitudes and coldest at higher elevations ( 0°C to -10°C) for both daytime and nighttime. These cold conditions can result in snowstorms and make it impossible for trekkers to attempt the Mardi Himal Trek.

Throughout your trek, some places can be very hot, while some can even be cold to avoid any attempts to trek. You can face the hottest climates at lower altitudes such as Pokhara and Siding. Pokhara has the hottest temperature which can go as high as 30°C, and the Siding is cooler at around 25°C.

At higher altitudes such as Mardi Himal Base Camp and Badal Danda, you will witness the coldest of temperatures. The highest peak of Mardi Himal Base Camp can have temperatures lower than -10°C, and Badal Danda at a lower altitude than the Base Camp has temperatures of 0°C to -5°C.

How Much Does the Mardi Himal Trek Cost?

The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect opportunity to have an affordable and wonderful Himalayan experience. The budget for this trek is considered low budget with the price usually starting from $300 to $600 per person. The range of this varies according to the type of trek, the level of comfort, and meal, permit, accommodation, and other additional services. Staying in teahouses makes this trek affordable to a variety of trekking budgets. A cost includes also necessary expenses transportation, meals, and park entry fees, which make it a great point of view trekking across stunning mountain vistas.

Budget Breakdown for Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek is a short and amazing trek that is not very expensive. Here we have a cost breakdown for the trek to make it easier.

The first essential thing to have is a permit. As you will be in the Annapurna region, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) which costs $25. This permit is easily available from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. Always remember to keep the permits safe as they can be checked along the checkpoints. 

Although you will trek for the most part, you still need to use the transportation facilities like tourist buses. The price for a ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara is $7 to $10 and Pokhara to Dhampus is expensive, around $10 to $20. For the last part of the trek, the return trip from Siding to Pokhara will cost another $2 to $5.

Accommodations are usually just teahouses, with prices depending on the altitude but typically range from $5 to $10 per night. Facilities in the accommodation are basic comfortable rooms and bedding, and a shared bathroom.

The same goes with meals, it can increase depending on how high altitude you are at. You will spend around $15 to $30 per day on meals. That includes all 3-meals of the day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

To make the trek we have services from guides and porters too. The cost for a guide is $25 to $35 per day and for porters, it is $15 to $25 per day. A guide will help you navigate terrains easily and manage the entire itinerary while a porter will carry loads such as bags to reduce the weight to yourself. 

If you book the trek from our company, we will make this hectic daily planning into a smooth easygoing trek for you.

Cost Comparison: Guided vs. Independent Mardi Himal Trek

The important thing to be noted is that the Independent Trek in the Annapurna Region does not include the Mardi Himal Trek. According to the Nepalese Government rule of April 1, 2023, independent trekking is banned in the Annapurna region and other regions.

The rule was intended for the safety of the tourists and to assist during the trek, but some can still disregard this as there isn’t strict checking at all. Despite the rule and its checking, there are numerous benefits to having a guide to your trek.

Firstly, while exploring a mountainous region such as Mardi Himal Base Camp it can be difficult to follow the routes. Having a trekking guide means things will be smooth and comfortable during the trek. Expert guides provide you with expert navigation towards your itinerary ensuring your chances and safety while also enriching your experience with local history and tradition.

From Radiant Treks, you will be assigned experienced guides who know the Mardi Himal region well and can identify and navigate difficult terrains. Our guides help you avoid missing out on learning about local heritage and allow you to engage with the fun communities along the trail. Keeping you motivated is another role of our guides so that at every step of the trek, you can keep pushing to get to the amazing destinations.

Hidden Costs to Consider on the Mardi Himal Trek

Besides the daily budget for the trek, there are often places for unexpected expenditure. It is best to carry extra money to cover the surprising and random costs.

To begin, you expect the cost for guides and porters to be definite, but they too expect extra fees of $5 to $10 per day as tips for their service. Extra facilities from teahouses like charging devices and hot showers also cost you some fees. As electricity is scarce in those regions, charging devices costs $1 to $3 per hour, and for hot showers, it is $2 to $5. 

The price of water increases with the altitude. While it can be cheap to buy bottled water at lower altitudes for $1, at higher altitudes it can be $4 per bottle and even for filtered water.

The last and rare unexpected turns of events are weather, transport, and gear. Weather changes can cause some delays, transportation facilities can be disrupted, and damaged or forgotten gears need to be rented.

So, being prepared for these small extra and sudden fees will prevent you from being caught off-guard and seeing your budget go lower fast.

How to Save Money While Trekking Mardi Himal?

With smart budget planning, trekking the Mardi Himal trail can be even more affordable. Save on accommodation and flight traveling off-season and by booking in advance to get discounts. For lodging, choose teahouses, which are budget-friendly and include proper meals. To avoid paying high prices for snacks during the trail, bring your own at lower altitudes for a cheaper price.

Opt for water purification tablets as the prices of even water bottles increase as you go up. 

Hiring local guides can deal with prices at a good and affordable amount. Join group treks for lower costs on guides and services. Depending on how many people there are in your group, the entire fee is split among the members for guide fees. Pack your gear and avoid charges for renting it. 

If you follow these tips, you will have a budget trip and avoid overspending.

Is Mardi Himal Trek Worth the Money?

Most definitely. Mardi Himal Trek is worth all the money because of the impressive scenery, and spectacular views of surrounding mountains such as Annapurna Massif, Machapuchare, and Himalchuli. The trek, although not as popular as Annapurna Base Camp, is more peaceful and serene. The short length of the trek and cheaper prices, while being able to witness the rich cultural experience of traditional villages make this viable for all kinds of trekkers. Natural beauty, cultural richness, and the adventurous trail make this trek worthy of going.

Radiant Treks has various packages to offer for the Mardi Himal Trek. We have a popular choice of an 8-day itinerary Package trek to Mardi Himal, passing through amazing landscapes, lively villages, and peaceful forests.

We start our trip flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and upon reaching, enjoy the beautiful Phewa Lake. The beauty of the surrounding peaks like Annapurna and Machhapuchhre with dense rhododendron forests can be seen along the trail spots like Dhampus, Australian Camp, and Forest Camp. 

At the actual viewpoint of Mardi Himal, you have a wide view of nature and the surrounding peaks that will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While descending, the Kalimati Village is a perfect place to engage with local traditions and terrace farms. 

Lumre is the last destination of the Mardi Himal trek, after leaving you get ready for a return trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

What to Pack for the Mardi Himal Trek?

While the Mardi Himal Trek is packed with beauty, it is important to pack the right gear for comfort and safety. The key to a day out is a backpack (35 to 45 liters) with a waterproof shed for your essentials. A daypack is ideal for day hikes in which you won’t carry heavy stuff. 

About clothing, pack thermal base layers (shirts and trousers) to keep you warm, hiking pants that can be converted to shorts, and a fleece or down jacket for colder weather. Make sure you have a waterproof jacket, four to six pairs of socks, and one or two pairs of underwear to protect to keep you comfortable as you trek. For challenges of rough terrain, trekking boots are essential to make you have an easier time.

Essentials to be brought are sunglasses and a sun hat to protect you from UV rays, as well as lip balm and sun protection cream. Extra batteries and a power bank for a headlamp will help light your way when it is nighttime, and charge your devices.

Staying hydrated is essential on the trek, a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets are a must. Don’t forget your cash, mostly in change as ATM’s are rare. Sleeping bag for overnight stays since teahouse bedding can be unreliable, and trekking poles make for extra stability on the hikes. 

These are the important items that will prepare you for a happy and safe trekking experience.

Physical Fitness Requirements for Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek requires you to have moderate physical fitness and stamina. It is good to start building endurance by doing exercises like jogging, cycling, or swimming. Uphill hiking and strength training must also be done to get your legs and core ready to go uphill and down.

Pay more attention to building flexibility and balance, to circumnavigate uneven and rocky paths or terrains. At high altitudes, you need to acclimatize to the climate, so take rest days, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol.

Although being a beginner-friendly trek, prior trek experience is important. If you prepare and get fit, this is something you can do without a problem.

How to Prepare for the Mardi Himal Trek?

For a successful trek, preparation is always the key. The difficulty of the Mardi Himal is moderate but it isn’t a walk in the park.

Physical preparation should be prioritized first. To not be exhausted during the trek or having to rest for days at a spot, train your body for the stress of trekking beforehand. Mimicking the trekking environment by carrying a weighted backpack and walking inclines, improving cardiovascular fitness by jogging, swimming, cycling, and strength training your legs and core are all important.

To pack smart is another essential preparation. With a 35 to 45-liter backpack, carry the most important ones such as clothing to keep you warm, trekking boots for comfort, a sleeping bag for cold, waterproof windproof jacket for the weather changes. For sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, lip balm, sunscreen, and water purification tablets, reusable water bottles for access to clean drinking water. Carrying extra batteries or power banks (wireless chargers) will be required for places with no electricity.

Plan the itinerary with proper rest days and acclimatization. Not rushing the trek, listening to your body and taking some breaks, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious food are important to not fall sick during the trek.

Permits Required for the Mardi Himal Trek

The only permit required for the Mardi Himal Trek is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Since you will be in the restricted area of the Annapurna region, this permit becomes a requirement to trek the Mardi Himal. The permit requirement was established to protect the Annapurna region from damage to visitors. The ACAP permit promotes sustainable tourism and ensures the conservation of unique biodiversity and cultural heritage.

How to Obtain Annapurna Conservation Area Permits (ACAP)?

Most of the permits including the ACAP can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office, located in Kathmandu, and the fee for ACAP is around $25.
If you take one of our Radiant Trek packages, you can rest assured that we include the permit in the packages so you don’t have any burden.

Accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek

Accommodations are mostly just teahouses, guesthouses, and lodges. Usually, teahouses will provide basic facilities for sleeping with a bed and blanket and a shared bathroom. Besides the amenities you can find here, they are mostly known for their local delicious cuisines and hospitality. There are communal dining areas where you can meet fellow trekkers and share experiences of the trip.

Pokhara is filled with places to spend the night, Hotel Fewa Holiday Inn and Temple Tree Resort and Spa being famous ones. Along the trek at Dhampus, Basanta Lodge and Himalayan Lodge are great choices for accommodation. Green View and Restaurant at Forest Camp, Hotel Lucky View and Restaurant at Badal Danda, and Hotel Trekker’s Home at Siding are amazing too.

Amenities can get scarce as you go up the altitude, but you can go for better services at luxurious tea houses or lodges. 

What Kind of Food is Available on the Mardi Himal Trail?

Traditional Nepali food, Western-style dishes, and even Tibetan dishes can be found during the Mardi Himal Trek.

For breakfast, it is commonly porridge, bread and eggs, pancakes, fried rice, or noodles.

Traditional Nepali meals, Dal Bhat, noodles, and Western dishes like pizza and sandwiches are available for lunch. Lastly, dinner will be served with curries, pasta, momo, Tibetan bread, and again Dal Bhat.

Best energy Snacks To pack for the trek

Trekking for long hours can be tiring. Waiting for restaurants and teahouses isn’t that optimal, and the prices for snacks here can rise significantly. It is recommended to pack snacks from lower regions. Snacks such as Granola Bars, Dried Fruits, Chocolate, Rice Cakes, Energy Bars,Fruits, Instant Oatmeal Packets, and Nut Butter Packets are an energy fuel for the trek.

What Makes Mardi Himal Views Unique?

Mardi Himal views are a beauty that claims the serene trails, rich biodiversity, culture immersion, and impressive landscape. The trek is usually not crowded as compared to other Annapurna region routes, offering a chance to peacefully connect to nature.

There are wide diversities of terrain that trekkers get to experience, from lush rhododendron forests to alpine meadows that burst into shades of color during the spring. Traditional Gurung villages such as Siding have cultural highlights for trekkers to interact with the local community.

The best part of the trek is the magnificent view from Mardi Himal Base Camp, which offers views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Himalchuli up close. Mesmerising sunrises and sunsets are accompanied by these views perfecting the Himalayan range in golden hues. The trek also takes place in a very remote location but with strong stargazing opportunities.

Best Photography Spots on the Mardi Himal Trek

Photography spots aren’t few, you will find them along every part of the trek. But the heavenly view can be spotted and captured in Badal Danda, Forest Camp, and the Base Camp.

Badal Danda: Views of surrounding mountains Annapurna, Machapuchare (Fishtail) combined with lush forests offering an amazing contrast. Badal Danda known as “Cloud Hill” has astonishing cloudscapes adding a sweet touch to the overall scenery. 

Forest Camp: Chances to view rare wildlife and plants. The dense forest of rhododendron, pine, and oak forests make up a serene and picturesque atmosphere, especially during the spring. Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers will have the opportunity to capture birds and animals in their habitats.

Mardi Himal Base Camp: At an altitude of 4,500 meters, you can view all the mountain ranges, terrains, hills, and wildlife. Sunrise and sunset at this height become much more enriched and heavenly, perfect to snap a shot for remembering.

What peaks can be Captured on the Trek of Mardi Himal?

On the Mardi Himal Trek, Mardi Himal isn’t the only mountain that draws the horizon. Iconic peaks surround the region creating a paradise for photographers. The trail is a must-see for those looking for both natural beauty and highly sought-after opportunities for a great shot.

Across the trek, Machapuchare (Fishtail) is one of the most striking peaks you see. Its distinctive shape is always visible and you can best see it from Dhampus and Pothana because it dominates the skyline. Machapuchare can appear almost within arm’s reach when seen from Badal Danda and High Camp, perfect for both close-up and sunrise shots.

It is also not to ignore the spectacular appearance of Dhaulagiri, which is the seventh-highest mountain in the world. Pothana and Badal Danda are the best vantage points for viewing this massive, snow-covered mountain, particularly at sunrise when the light paints it in shades of gold and pink.

Annapurna range, including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Annapurna III acts as an awesome peak. From High Camp, you get sweeping views that are unobstructed to capture these peaks at their best. The Annapurnas at Mardi Himal Base Camp appear even nearer, where you can get 360-degree views of it.
Finally, Annapurna region’s last stunning peak, Himalchuli can be snapped from Forest Camp and Badal Danda with the surrounding rhododendron forests making a stunning frame around the peak.

Cultural Experiences on the Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek has communities of different cultures, that have been deeply rooted in their traditions and history. Around the time of Spring and Autumn, the festive seasons, you can get to witness and engage with their cultures.

Buddha Jayanti, which is on the full moon day of April or May, is celebrated for the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. This festival celebrates him changing from prince to spiritual teacher and symbolizing peace and enlightenment. It historically reflects the spread of Buddhism across Asia and is culturally important to the locals of Gurungs and Tamangs who celebrate it with prayers, processions and acts of kindness.

Tihar or Deepavali is celebrated over five days during late October or early November. Celebrates the bond of siblings, worshiping animals such as crows, and dogs, and honors the goddess Laxmi referred to as the deity of wealth and prosperity. It features a specific festival called Bhai Tika, where the sisters bless their brothers, strengthening the family bonds even more.

Dashain, the most famous festival of Nepal, is celebrated in late September or October. It originated in Hindu mythology in remembrance of goddess Durga’s win over the demon king Mahishasura, acting as a symbol of the victory of the good over the evil. It is also associated with the harvest season, too, traditionally linked to agrarian society. Families worship and bless each other and enjoy the feasts.

Maghe Sankranti is celebrated in winter on January 14, the time for the winter solstice and the beginning of the harvest season. This festival is based on the Vedic ancient custom of praise for the sun’s movement into the northern hemisphere. It is celebrated as a thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest, with traditional foods such as sesame seeds, molasses, and yam, a symbol of warmth, health, and prosperity.

Sonam Lhosar, the Tamang New Year celebration, is celebrated in the winter month of February. It is connected to the history and lunar calendar. It represents the Tamang identity for the harvest with lively dances, rituals, and feasts with the community. A time of refreshing, harmony, and celebration of life cycles.     

Locals Along the Trail

The Mardi Himal Trek is situated amid Annapurna, the region inhabited by the Gurung, Magar, and Tamang, who have practiced agriculture and animal husbandry traditionally. The Gurung and Magar, also have a historical contribution to the British Gurkha regiments, especially during the Anglo-Nepalese War.

The celebration of Dashain and Tihar shows that they have maintained a rich cultural tradition. These communities are also skillful artisans, creating handicrafts and textiles that entice the trekkers. Many locals serve as guides and porters and provide essential support as well as local knowledge of the terrain that can keep people safe and make the trekking experience more interesting.

Several villages have opened homestays and guesthouses that allow trekkers to experience country hospitality close up personally. It is sometimes the food made with ingredients from the nearby fields with a taste of traditional cuisine that is loved by the trekkers. Local communities being involved in tourism preserve not only the culture but also contribute to sustainable tourism and enriching trek to all.

Noteworthy Villages along the path of Mardi Himal Trail

After crossing Pokhara and reaching Annapurna region, there are numerous villages along the path of Mardi Himal. 

Dhampus

First on the list is Dhampus, a pleasant Gurung village located north of Pokhara with amazing views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges. It is famous for its terraced fields, traditional houses, peaceful atmosphere and warmth. In the past, it was a settlement for the Gurung people, a community with an excellent heritage and hospitality. With time it turned into a popular trekking spot, where trekkers rest and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Pothana

Next, Pothana is a small beautiful village located on the trekking route to Annapurna and is famed for its great view of Annapurna South and Machapuchare mountain. For years, it’s been a traditional stop for trekkers, and over the years, it has developed a tiny tourism industry of its own, with local tea houses. It remains calm and rustic, sitting within rhododendron forests and being a favored place for sitting and resting.

Kokar

Kokar, also known as Forest Camp, is 2,600m high in the dense forests of rhododendrons and oaks. Historically, this remote quiet location was used as a stopping place for local hunters and traders traveling through the area. These days, the trail is still an escape from busier trails, presenting trekkers with a calm atmosphere and crisp natural surroundings.

Badal Danda

Badal Danda (or Cloud Hill) is at 3,250 meters. The region’s name ‘ Badal Danda’ originates from the mist that tends to be there most of the time making one seem to be walking in clouds. Historically, locals and people who trek here have always come to this place to see the magnificent Annapurna range and Machapuchare. It’s not only tranquil with its broad views but also a lovely place for a stop.

High Camp

At 3,550 meters, High Camp lies at one of the best wide viewpoints in the Annapurna area, including views of the Annapurna range and Machapuchare. Less traveled until recently but due to its proximity to Mardi Himal Base camp, it has become popular now. It is a small camp with tea houses that shelter trekkers and from its strategic location provides astonishing views of its surrounding peaks.

Siding

At 1,750 meters, Siding is only a small Gurung village. It is generally an agricultural settlement with local farming millet, maize, and vegetables. For years, Siding has developed into a popular stop for trekkers, giving a touch of rural Nepali life while providing a view of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a quiet rural retreat that also offers a demonstration of the honey-hunting traditions of the locals.

Kalibari (Kalimati)

Kalibari (also known as Kalimati) is a small village in the Kalimati Mardi Himal trekking area. An ancient shrine to the Indian goddess Kali, the revered figure of Hinduism, draws pilgrims and trekkers to the village. Kalibari visit is a serene moment in the trek with its cultural importance and spiritual touch attracting the trekkers.

Landruk

Situated at an altitude of 1,565 meters, Landruk is a picturesque Gurung village with terraced farming and views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. Historically, the village was an important place for the Gurung people. Today it continues to be a well-travelled stop by trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit to experience the traditional mountain way of life amongst stunning mountain views.

Ghorepani

Ghorepani at 2,874m is one of the best trekking destinations of Nepal because of its proximity toPoon Hill, one of the better-known viewpoints from where the panorama of Annapurna range can be seen over the tea forest. Ghorepani was historically a stop for traders and trekkers passing through, on their way to the higher Annapurna areas. It’s an incredibly beautiful place today, much like a bustling village, but with tea houses, accommodations for trekkers, and natural beauty.

Common issues Faced by Trekkers on Mardi Himal, with solutions | Challenges and Safety Tips

Is Mardi Himal Trek Difficult?

Mardi Himal Trek falls under moderate difficulty. This means no mountaineering skills are needed, making it viable for beginners and even young children. Anyone with basic physical fitness requirements can accomplish the trek. The trek itinerary itself is short, so you won’t have to exhaust yourself throughout the entire trek. Also, by properly acclimatizing to the altitude and taking proper rest, having nutritious food and water is enough to make this trek a piece of cake.

Common issues Faced by Trekkers on Mardi Himal, with solutions | Challenges and Safety Tips

During the trek, both prepared and unprepared trekkers can face issues that can be unexpected sometimes from weather, physical demands, and altitude. Here are some common issues faced by trekkers on Mardi Himal with solutions:

Altitude Sickness: The most common issue of trekking is altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). This can be a challenge even for experienced trekkers and not just beginners. It occurs when one rushes with the altitude elevation and goes past the daily limit. They suffer from symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea. 

Acclimatization is the key to preventing AMS. Acclimatizing simply means getting your body used to the higher elevation and a slow pace. Taking gradual ascent, and having rest days for acclimatization will help against AMS. Medications advice from doctors is Diamox, which further assists in acclimatizing to the altitude.

Dehydration: Trekking to high altitudes in the cold weather can make you dehydrated, which leads to being fatigued and reduces physical performance. Try reminding yourself to be hydrated by drinking at least 3 to 4 liters of water per day. Alcohol, smoking, coffee, and tea should be avoided to prevent dehydration. Carry reusable water bottles and refill them while using water purification tablets to stay hydrated. 

Cold Weather and Hypothermia: Altitudes at higher elevations can have very low temperatures. If you aren’t well layered with clothes, you can get hypothermia, a condition when body temperature goes below normal. To keep yourself warm, you should clothe in layers. Wear moisture-wicking layers, with thermals, and windproof and waterproof jackets to keep yourself dry and warm. In extreme situations, seek warm shelter immediately to avoid life-threatening problems.

Fatigue and Injuries: Even in the short-distance trek, the altitude can make you tired, minor injuries like blisters can also occur. Eat nutritious food throughout the day, and during the trek have Granola Bars, Dried Fruits, Chocolate, etc for fueling energy. A proper first-aid kit is a must. Whether the injury is minor or severe, taking care of it is essential to avoid discomfort. The first aid kit should contain bandages, treatments for blisters (these are pretty common), adhesive tape, gauze pads, disinfecting ointment, pen, paper, gloves, and OTC painkillers. 

Weather and Navigation Challenges: Weather in the higher altitudes is unpredictable, and this can cause unforeseen delays and disruptions in the itinerary. Before starting the trek, understand the season you are trekking in, and check the daily weather forecast. 

It is also common for trekkers to be confused while following the route of the itinerary. A guide will take care of navigating the terrain and its dangers, allowing you a smooth trip to Mardi Himal. 

Importance Of Travel Insurance for Mardi Himal Trek

Travel insurance is important not only for Mardi Himal but for other treks too. The insurance includes essential coverage such as medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and protectionfor trip cancellation from weather disruptions. Weather in the higher altitudes can be pretty unpredictable when it comes to trekking, so your comprehensive travel insurance gives you extra peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

Mardi Himal Region of the Annapurna region, is perfect for nature lovers, with diverse flora and fauna. The chances to see rare and uncommon flora and fauna make Mardi Himal a heaven for wildlife lovers and photographers.

Sal trees, colorful rhododendrons, and oaks fill the forests making them a pleasant place to be. When the blooming seasons start during the spring, it makes the forest a peaceful and serene place. Other plants such as lush bamboo groves enhance the overall beauty of the region. Wildflowers such as edelweiss, blue poppies, and various grasses can be seen during the trek.

Mardi Himal region is filled with wildlife sightings. You will mostly have an opportunity to watch Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, and langur monkeys. If fortunate enough, you can even spot rare animals such as red pandas and snow leopards. 

Anyone intrigued by wild birds also has a chance to glance at amazing birds. You can see the amazing national bird of Nepal, the Himalayan Monal, pheasants, Himalayan griffon vulture, snow sock, and other songbirds.
At lower altitudes of Mardi Himal, colorful butterflies such as Common Blue and Red Admiral can be seen.

Mardi Himal Trek vs. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Mardi Himal Trek and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek are preferable choices to every trekker depending on their overall preferences. 

While Annapurna Base Camp is a famous trekking route among the trekkers, Mardi Himal is a lesser-known route but offers more peaceful and serene landscapes. Mardi Himal goes is a short and sweet trek, which can be accomplished within 5 days, whereas, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is a lengthier one, around 12 days. 

The longer days of trekking, mean more exhaustion and budget. The trek to Annapurna will need more preparation (physical and mental) and proper packing. Distance from Pokhara to ABC is much further, meaning the cost to reach there and the overall trekking cost is more in comparison to Mardi Himal. 

The facilities in ABC are more developed and readily available too because of the popularity it has gained over the years from trekkers. But Mardi Himal is not to be neglected, it has as equal scenery as ABC’s. The route isn’t visited by trekkers much often, meaning it would be more tranquil and offer peace of mind for visitors. As Mardi Himal is a short trek, the budgeting won’t be expensive at all either.

Overall, both treks have their impressive views and features. While ABC can be lengthy and expensive, Mardi is a cheaper trek with as stunning views as from ABC.

How Does Mardi Himal Compare to Poon Hill Trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill Trek both are fantastic choices and have their natural beauty. In terms of duration, both treks are achievable in about 5 days.

Poon Hill Trek is popular among the trekkers and is a classic route with views of surrounding mountains like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The social experiences and insights into local villages and traditions make this a popular route.

On the other hand, Mardi Himal Trek isn’t a crowded trek, rather it is a peaceful adventure. While going through the trek, the silence and solitude allow for one of the most serene trips, yet the astonishing views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South are unhinged. Remote trails and steeper regions can lead to accommodation facilities being only basic, but still enough to spend the night cozily. 

Mardi Himal Trek vs. Everest Base Camp Trek

The comparison between the Mardi Himal Trek and the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek is a vast one. Mardi Himal is a short, easygoing, budget trek, while (EBC) is a much more challenging and strenuous one to complete.

In terms of difficulty, Mardi Himal is an easier trek than EBC. EBC is marked as a high altitude and difficult trek, whereas the Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate difficulty trek with basic fitness requirements. Although the EBC trek doesn’t have a specific need for mountaineering skills, it still is harder than the Mardi Himal Trek.

The days required to complete the trek are also different, where EBC takes around 12 days and Mardi Himal only about 5 days. Now, that duration of the trek ultimately results in cost difference too. In contrast to the cheaper Mardi Himal Trek which is about $300 to $600, EBC, though expensive, is still a budget trek, costing you about $1350 to $2000.
Accessibility is one essential thing to consider. EBC is a long-distance trek, where you need to fly to Lukla (infamous airport). Mardi Himal on the other hand, is a short and easy trek via bus ride from Pokhara. EBC is much affected by weather conditions and flight delays, but Mardi Himal is a hassle-free trek with only rare disruptions from the weather.

• Proper footwear is necessary, so don’t forget to test-run your boots
• Know your routes and trails, and research the weather forecast for the week before leaving
• Pack Light, but bring essentials like warm clothing, snacks, portable chargers, first aid, purification tablets, and gears
• Climb high, sleep low newbies! Acclimatization is absolute to avoid altitude sickness
• Drink a lot of water and avoid alcoholic beverages and tobacco
• Opt. to Walking Poles
• Listen to your Body AND your Guide
• Respect your environment, do not litter
• Finally, enjoy Yourself!

Sustainable Trekking Practices for Mardi Himal

Firstly, sustainable trekking starts with making conscious choices to protect the environment and supporting local communities. 

By hiring certified local guides, you are effectively giving the local economy a boost while getting navigated in the best possible way by those who know the region in-depth. Opt. for eco-friendly teahouses that use solar energy or have water purification, this helps reduce strain on natural resources. Also, waste management, say no packaged snacks. Carry air-tight, reusable containers to store your food and water instead. It’s recommended to take along solar chargers or power banks to lighten the use of electricity in remote areas. Additionally, refrain from using firewood for warmth or cooking as this is a straightway to deforestation which impacts the region’s fragile ecosystem. 

How to Minimize Your Environmental Impact on the Trail?

Simple practices help reduce your environmental footprint on the Mardi Himal trail effectively. 

Personal water filters or purification tablets not only help avoid plastic waste but also save you water bottle money that goes up as you climb up. Equally important is properly segregating waste and returning recyclables to urban disposal facilities. By limiting noise pollution, we make sure that the peace of the Himalayas is not disturbed and that wildlife as well as fellow trekkers are at ease. Respecting the local flora and fauna means not picking any plants or abusing animals. Refrain from feeding the animals too to maintain natural food-chain balance. 

Why Mardi Himal Needs Responsible Tourism?

Since Mardi Himal is home to a fragile ecosystem as well as its cultural richness, responsible tourism becomes a must. 

The region includes endangered species such as red panda, and various flora, including colorful rhododendron forests. Even minor impacts can have long-term effects on the ecology. Without the proper disposal system of litter in the mountains, the litter doesn’t degrade for years which ultimately damages the environment. 

Unless tourism is managed sustainably, the Gurung culture, around villages like Siding and Landruk, falls at a risk of diminishing. The heavy crowd and the foot traffic on the trails suffer from erosion and make the trails prone to landslides. 
Lastly, climate change in the Annapurna region, including the Mardi Himal, can be a long-term problem. Responsible tourism will help minimize carbon footprints as well as promoting eco-friendly practices can help mitigate such problems.

Dr R M Thapa Syangja: “The views are amazing. Fantastic, totally and truly. People, tea house owners, and Nepalese people are simply indescribably enchanting.”

Faye-Tothemoon: “I think Mardi Himal is a gem waiting to be discovered by more trekkers”

Sherpa Khangri Outdoor: “Mardi Himal trek is the best destination to avoid the crowd and to engage with nature and local culture”

Arun Jeyachandran: “An amazing and challenging trek”
Giulia Cerrato: “Beautiful trek dipped in the Rhododendron forest!”

1. Is Wi-Fi Available on Mardi Himal Trek?

Yes and No. It can be deemed unreliable along the trail as some lodges may have the facility and some may not. It’s best to consider taking a data pack with either NTC or NCELL sim (Nepal’s local sim card). The sim card itself will cost 100 rupees per sim after you fill in a document with your personal information (The paper will be provided by the shop person).

2.     What’s Mobile Network Coverage like on Mardi Himal Trek?

Pretty unstable on higher elevations and decent on lower.

a) Lower Elevations: Kande, Deurali, Forest Camp

b) Higher Elevations: Low Camp, High Camp, Base Camp

Our guides from Radiant Treks and Tours carry a satellite phone with them, so in case of emergency kindly ask them for help.

3.     Do Locals Speak English on the Mardi Himal Trek?

Yes, many locals along the trail can speak basic English with a decent accent, especially owners and workers of the teahouses and lodges. They all are friendly too.

4.     Where to Rent Trekking Gears in Pokhara?

The easiest way is to visit, Rent in Nepal, and contact them for gear. They have the prices mentioned on their page.

5.     How to Book Mardi Himal Trek with Radiant Treks?

On our Page, Visit theContact Section, from here, you can either mail or WhatsApp us, or you can just Leave Us Your Info on the same page and book your trek!

6.     What activities should I indulge in after my Trek? Post Trek Activities

1. For Relaxation and Recovery, Massage, Spa, Yoga, and Meditation are the best options.
2. For Adventure Enthusiasts, Paragliding, Boating, Rafting, zip lines, and Bungee are the best suggestions.
3. For Sightseeing and Day trips, World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa), International Mountain Museum, Davis Falls and Gupteshwor Cave, Begnas Lake, Viewing Sarangkot Sunrise, Visiting Seti River Gorge, and last but not least, a short Trek to Australian Camp will be a great idea.

7. Are there ATMs along the track?

Well, there surely are a few along the trail but none are reliable. Not even e-wallets can be deemed reliable. So make sure to carry enough Nepali currency to avoid money problems.