The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most preferred treks. The journey begins upon reaching Pokhara, the largest tourist hub in Nepal. Mardi Himal Trek offers captivating paths through forests, hills, and panoramic mountain views. It is an ideal destination for travel enthusiasts, especially those who relish hiking. The trek ascends to an altitude ranging from approximately 3,300m to 4,200m, navigating through a dense rhododendron forest on winding pathways. This recently opened trail is gaining rapid popularity, due to its breathtaking diversity of nature and culture. It has less crowded routes in the Annapurna region, making it exceptionally fascinating and captivating and stunning views.
In this article, we will discuss the difficulty level, altitude, trail, and story of each place included in the Mardi Himal trekking experience. For a detailed itinerary and cost details, please click the link below Mardi Base Camp Trekking.
If you have different plans regarding extending the trip duration or selecting a specific trail, Treklanders Adventures is always ready to assist you at any time.
Discussing the difficulty of the Mardi Himal trek is indeed a moderate-challenging trek; however, beginners with a good level of fitness can successfully undertake this trek. This trek spans an elevation from 3300m to 4200m above sea level, gradually reaching the peak through acclimatization.
The key prerequisite is to prioritize both physical and mental well-being before embarking on the trek. Ensuring your body is in good shape is crucial since trekking primarily involves navigating both uphill and downhill terrains using your robust feet. Engaging in regular exercises, walks, and hikes is essential preparation for the extended trekking days. Given the abundance of teahouses along the Mardi Himal trail, you have the flexibility to take rest days at any point, adjusting to your trekking pace.
For an exceptional trekking experience, it is crucial to select the right season to ensure perfect views and a favorable environment. In Nepal, there are two optimal seasons for a wonderful trekking adventure, steering clear of the rainy and winter seasons. During the rainy season, the trails become dangerously slippery due to rainfall, and leeches pose a threat in forested areas along the trek. Additionally, the risk of flooding, landslides, soil erosion, and other natural calamities is higher in this season. In winter, heavy snowfall can lead to avalanches, and the extreme cold diminishes the enjoyment of the trek. Foggy weather also obscures views and scenes.
The two best seasons for trekking in Nepal are Spring and Autumn. The Spring season, from March to May, offers moderate weather and lush surroundings with blooming flowers, particularly the vibrant colors of rhododendrons and other wildflowers. The breathtaking scenes along the trail are invigorating and make the trek an unforgettable experience. Walking under clear skies with panoramic views motivates trekkers to explore further. According to Hindu mythology, the belief is that gods and goddesses reside in the mountains, which is evident in the abundance of temples along the trekking route.
Autumn, spanning from September to November, is also an ideal season for the Mardi Himal trek. The clear skies allow trekkers to fully appreciate the scenic beauty that Mardi has to offer. The stable weather during this season eliminates the risk of rainfall and other natural calamities. Consequently, there is a higher influx of trekkers, and accommodations in hotels may be fully booked. It is advisable to plan and book with Treklanders Adventures, a renowned trekking company, well in advance to secure the best experience during your trekking days.
When discussing the altitude of the Mardi Himal trek, the journey commences from Pokhara, located at an altitude of 827 meters. Through a gradual ascent and descent, the trek leads to an altitude of 4200 meters. Acclimatization is facilitated by progressing from low camp to high camp, ultimately reaching the Mardi Himal base camp and viewpoint, both being highlights of this trek. These vantage points offer breathtaking, close-up views of Machhapuchhre Himal and the Annapurna range.
Our team includes a professional guide who is consistently available to assist you. If any issues or symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) arise, it is imperative to inform the guide promptly. Adequate hydration is crucial throughout the trek, particularly for those who are new to trekking. If you are a first-time trekker, it is advisable to ascend slowly, gradually acclimatizing, before reaching higher elevations. This cautious approach enhances the overall trekking experience and minimizes the risk of altitude-related issues.
The Mardi Himal trek route is less crowded compared to others in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This path is optimal for experiencing classic mountain views, traversing lush forests, discovering the stories behind each village, exploring traditional villages, and immersing yourself in the culture and traditions of the mountain people known for their warm hospitality. Below are the details of the trekking route, highlighting what you will observe along the trail of the Mardi Himal Trek:
Our Mardi Himal trek starts from Kathmandu, and today’s first destination is Pokhara. We will stay in Pokhara on the first day. With a 6-hour drive from Kathmandu, we will reach Pokhara. Pokhara is the most recognized name in the Nepali tourism sector, encompassing the majestic Machhapuchhre and Annapurna mountains. At the top of these peaks, the first glimpse of the sun adorns the golden crown. Eight beautiful lakes, including Phewa, Begnas, Rupa, Gunde, Khaste, Nyurani, Maidi, and Deepang, are nestled within this region.
Pokhara is not only a picturesque tourist destination but also a hub connecting to other beautiful tourist areas like Mustang, Annapurna Base Camp, Kusma, Kori, and Mardi. Travelers to these areas often step onto this land. As soon as people come to Pokhara or go to other places, they rest on this land. Pokhara takes care of as much as possible. The magic of Pokhara City is such that whoever comes here will come again and again.
On the second day, we will head towards Pitam Deurali. After having breakfast at the hotel in Pokhara, with a backdrop of the impressive Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, we will depart from the hotel.
Shortly after leaving the hotel, we will reach the Pokhara Baglung Highway. This 76 km long highway starts from zero Kilo in Pokhara and ends at Baglung, connecting Mustang, Kusma, and Dhampus with Pokhara. We will travel along this road towards Dhampus.
A little further from Ghate Khola on the highway, there will be a right turn marked by a sign saying "Welcome to Dhampus." This place is called Phedi. After ascending from Phedi, a small unpaved road will start leading travelers to Dhampus, which is 26 km from Pokhara. Passing through small settlements along the way, our journey continues.
After traveling on a rough road for a while, we will enter the forested road. Traveling through this road, you'll feel like you have arrived far away from the city. Looking at the mountains on one side and the world stretching out on the other, you may lose track of time.
After a 40-minute ride from Pokhara, we will reach Dhampus and take a lunch break there. Mardi Himal trekkers can commence their journey on foot from both Dhampus and Australian Base Camp. To reach the Australian Base Camp, one needs to climb from a place called Kande, which is some distance from Phedi. Both the Australian Base Camp and Dhampus offer good accommodation facilities, and you can start your journey from wherever you feel comfortable. However, we will take the route from Pitam Deurali as jeeps can reach there.
Pitam Deurali, situated at a height of 2100 meters above sea level, had water supply issues in the past. Travelers passing through this area had to rely on collected water from the sky, which has the color of a bear's hive, giving the place its name, Pitam Deurali. From this location, you can enjoy views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna range, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Ganesh, and Mardi mountains simultaneously.
Pitam Deurali is an excellent destination for those who want to spend the day marveling at the surrounding mountains and enjoying a spectacular sunset. The night sky at Pitam Deurali is adorned with millions of stars, adding to its charm. It's like adding fragrance to gold. We will stay overnight at Pitam Deurali.
The rays of the morning sun gently bathed the mountains, as always. The chirping of the trees disturbed the sleep of the slumbering trekkers. Pitam Deurali, having endured the cold of the night, welcomed the warmth of the sun, embracing the new day. Beyond the hotel, the Mardi Mountain came into view, marking our destination. Having rested the previous day, we gathered fresh energy for the journey ahead. Since it takes 6 hours to reach Low Camp, we must start our trek early in the day after breakfast.
Our trek begins from Pitam Deurali, at an elevation of 2100 meters, and our goal is to reach Low Camp at 3050 meters. Shortly after starting our trek, we take a shortcut and proceed towards the Forest Camp. After 40 minutes of trekking, we reach Lovely Hill, situated at an elevation of 2280 meters above sea level. Taking a brief rest here will help alleviate any fatigue. From Lovely Hill, we stand in a landscape where the vast Annapurna Himal is visible. As we need to reach Low Camp, we begin the ascent after crossing Lovely Hill. Once we pass this point, the forest path begins. In winter, you may witness leaves falling from the trees, covering the road. An interesting feature of this path is the marks on the trees, ensuring that no one gets lost during the trek. New trekkers can follow these marks without any inconvenience.
About an hour after leaving Pitam Deurali, we reach Dod Kharka. Along the way through the dense forest, we continue walking, listening to the chirping of birds. After a few hours, we arrive at Forest Camp, a crucial point in the Mardi trek, situated at an altitude of 2550 meters. Notably, the tea houses here contribute to the trail's appeal. These tea houses are conveniently spaced, providing an atmosphere where even those with less trekking experience can easily reach Mardi. This accessibility attracts both first-time trekkers and seasoned hikers.
The Rest Camp is slightly above the Forest Camp and serves as a suitable place for mountain views. Those trekking from Dhampus often come to Rest Camp for an overnight stay. From this camp, at 2600 meters above sea level, you can get a close view of Machhapuchhre Mountain. Upon reaching the Rest Camp and witnessing the mountains in front, the temptation to rest there is palpable. A glimpse of Mardi Himal's beauty can be seen on the way from the Rest Camp to the Low Camp. After 9 hours of walking, we will finally reach Low Camp and spend the night there.
As you wake up at the Low Camp on the next day, feeling tired from the previous day's long walk, the majestic Machhapuchhre mountain, a constant companion since the beginning of your trek, is once again in sight. Our journey will lead us to the Mardi View Point, offering continuous views of this iconic mountain throughout the trek.
Locals mention that this place was initially known as Humal, situated at an elevation of 3035 meters above sea level. However, with the increasing number of foreign tourists, it gradually became known as Low Camp over time, and now it is recognized as Low Camp worldwide.
We proceed towards High Camp, and after an hour of walking, we reach Badal Danda. At 3300 meters above sea level, Badal Danda presents a breathtaking view of towering mountains on one side and a vast expanse of clouds below. Reaching the top of Badal Danda feels like reaching the summit of the clouds. The path is adorned with a green forest, creating a beautiful walk. Continuing from Badal Danda, the route to Mardi High Camp becomes visible, guiding travelers toward their goal with each step.
Interestingly, Mardi Himal and the Annapurna Base Camp Trail are neighboring trails. After climbing for a while from Badal Danda, the Annapurna Mountain comes into view on the left side, with a footpath visible right below it – the Annapurna Base Camp trail. On clear days, you can see the road from Chomrong to the Himalayas on the ABC trail from Mardi. The path from Badal Danda is a bit challenging and steep, with some hikers facing altitude sickness at the high camp.
Mardi Base Camp, at 4500 meters, is slightly higher than Annapurna Base Camp at 4130 meters, each with its unique characteristics. Both are equally attractive. The foggy weather obscures the road before reaching the high camp, and mules carrying goods can be seen on the footpaths.
At Mardi High Camp, the last tea houses of the Mardi trail are found. All trekkers heading to the viewpoint and base camp must spend a night here. Many wake up early, reach the base camp, and return, while some descend towards Low Camp and continue their journey to Pokhara via Siding, Dhampus, or Australian Base Camp. From High Camp, the views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre are stunning.
After reaching the high camp at an altitude of 3580 meters, it starts getting cold, and trekkers retire early, preparing for an early wake-up to reach the viewpoint. The ascent to the viewpoint in the dark, illuminated by torchlight, may be a bit uncomfortable, but the reward is the breathtaking sunrise. After an hour and a half of walking, you'll reach the viewpoint, witnessing the sun's rays emerging. Capture the moment as the sun rises. It takes about one and a half hours to reach the base camp from the viewpoint at an altitude of 4200 meters. For those who want a closer view of Machhapuchhre and Mardi Himal, reaching the base camp is recommended. The Mardi Himal trek is short, not too difficult, and can be completed in 6 to 7 days from Kathmandu, making it suitable for trekkers of all levels.
Mardi Himal, standing at a height of 5587 meters, is a prominent peak alongside Machhapuchre Himal. Basil Goodfellow achieved the first successful ascent of Mardi Himal in 1961, paving the way for the area's popularity among trekkers. From 1931 to 2024, Mardi has evolved into a sought-after destination for many enthusiasts. Consequently, the region welcomes thousands of tourists annually, showcasing its captivating beauty.
This 5-day Mardi Himal trek promises to leave you with heart-filling memories. A 2-day drive and a 3-day trek transport you from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the serene world of mountains, providing a respite from the city's noise for a few days. The journey spans five days, taking you through Pokhara, Pitam Deurali, Low Camp, and High Camp, creating lasting memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
👉 The Mardi Himal trek is a 5-day journey. This includes a 2-day drive and a 3-day trek from Kathmandu to the mountains.
👉 The Mardi Himal trek is considered moderate and suitable for trekkers of various levels. It offers a diverse range of landscapes, from forests to hills, with altitudes ranging from approximately 3,300m to 4,200m.
👉 For detailed information on the cost, including itinerary and options for extending the trip or choosing specific trails, please check the detailed itinerary provided by Treklanders Adventures here: https://treklanders.com/trips/mardi-base-camp-trekking
👉 The Mardi Himal trek boasts captivating paths through forests, hills, and panoramic mountain views. Highlights include the diverse nature and culture, less crowded trails in the Annapurna region, and breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna range, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Ganesh, and Mardi mountains.
👉 Yes, the Mardi Trek is considered relatively easy. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, offering a well-marked path through scenic landscapes.
👉 The Mardi Trek is best undertaken during the trekking seasons, which typically include spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months provide favorable weather conditions with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Anshu Thapa is the Managing Director of a Treklanders Adventures Pvt.Ltd. She is a highly experienced and accomplished trekking and mountaineering professional with ex...
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