Table of Contents
Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp
The Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp offers a detailed roadmap for an unforgettable adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna region. Combining the serene, less-traveled Mardi Himal Trek with the iconic Annapurna Base Camp Trek, this journey delivers stunning Himalayan views, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. This guide covers preparation, itinerary, tips, frequently asked questions, and how a travel agency can enhance your experience.
Itinerary of Mardi Himal Trek With Annapurna Base Camp
The Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara is designed to be easy and fun, with short daily walks (4–6 hours) and rest stops to help everyone adjust to higher altitudes. Here’s the plan:
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and Transfer to Hotel (Kathmandu, 1,400m)
- Arrive in Kathmandu and settle into your hotel for rest and trip preparation.
- Explore Thamel’s vibrant markets or cultural sites like Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (800m, 200km, 7hrs drive)
- Travel to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna Region, via scenic drive or quick flight.
- Relax by Phewa Lake, enjoying views of the Annapurna range.
Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Kande, Trek to Pitam Deurali (2,100m, 30km drive, 1hr; 6km trek, 3hrs)
- Drive to Kande and start the Mardi Himal Trek with a short hike to Pitam Deurali.
- Enjoy initial views of lush hills and distant Himalayan peaks.
Day 4: Trek from Pitam Deurali to Forest Camp (2,600m, 9km, 5hrs)
- Trek through dense rhododendron forests on a tranquil trail.
- Rest in a teahouse surrounded by greenery and mountain air.
Day 5: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,550m, 9km, 5hrs)
- Climb to High Camp, reaching open ridges with stunning Fishtail views.
- Watch a breathtaking sunset over the Himalayas from your teahouse.
Day 6: Explore Day – Hike from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and Back to High Camp (4,500m, 6km, 5hrs)
- Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp for close-up views of Machhapuchhre.
- Return to High Camp for a restful night with starry mountain skies.
Day 7: Trek from High Camp to Siding Village (1,280m) and Drive to Jhinu Danda (1,600m, 10km trek, 5hrs; 20km drive, 1hr)
- Descend through forests to Siding Village, wrapping up the Mardi Himal leg.
- Drive to Jhinu Danda and relax in soothing natural hot springs.
Day 8: Trek from Jhinu Danda to Sinuwa (2,360m, 6km, 4hrs)
- Start the Annapurna Base Camp route, passing vibrant Gurung villages like Chhomrong.
- Enjoy river views and settle into a teahouse in Sinuwa.
Day 9: Trek from Sinuwa to Deurali (3,200m, 13km, 7hrs)
- Trek through bamboo and rhododendron forests toward the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Reach Deurali, where the alpine landscape hints at the peaks ahead.
Day 10: Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m, 6km, 5hrs)
- Arrive at Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by towering peaks in the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Catch a magical sunrise over Annapurna I from your teahouse.
Day 11: Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,310m, 15km, 7hrs)
- Descend from the Sanctuary through lush forests to Bamboo.
- Enjoy the lively teahouse atmosphere and rest for the night.
Day 12: Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1,600m, 10km, 6hrs) and Drive to Pokhara (800m, 55km, 3.5hrs)
- Trek back to Jhinu Danda, with time for another hot spring dip if desired.
- Drive to Pokhara, ending your trek with lakeside relaxation.
Day 13: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (800m, 200km, 7hrs drive)
- Road trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Enjoy stunning views and local attractions.
- End your journey with a farewell dinner at a Nepali Culture restaurant, celebrating your adventure in Nepal.
Note: You can Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu which will cost you extra $100 mention from the calculator
Day 14: Departure from Nepal or follow your Next trip
- Based on your flight schedule, we will drop you off for your final departure to your home or next destination.
- We hope to see you on your next trip to Nepal!
Note: If you choose to fly both way form Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu, It will cost you extra $200 mention from the calculator. However, If you choose to fly one way either from Kathmandu to Pokhara or Pokhara to Kathmandu, It will cost you extra $100 mention from the calculator.
Note: We can complete the 14-day Mardi Himal Trek in just 12 days or customize your itinerary to suit your schedule. To customize your itinerary CLICK HERE
Note: We offer the complete package of Mardi Himal Trek and Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara.
Include and Exclude for the Trek
What’s Included
- Transport I: Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu, with private vehicle
- Accommodation: Comfortable hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast, based on your itinerary.
- Documents: All required trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS), official documents, paperwork, office service charges, and government taxes
- Transport II: Transport Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu, Round-trip travel by tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight as per your chosen itinerary.
- Transport III: Transportation from Pokhara to the trek start point and back from the trek end point according to the itinerary
- Experienced Guide: Professional, knowledgeable trekking guide fluent in English for safety and cultural insights.
- Porters: One porter for every two trekkers to carry heavy luggage, ensuring your comfort.
- Duffel Bag: We provide a duffle bag upon your request—please inform us early before booking or upon your arrival to ensure availability.
- Trekking Map: A trekking route map for the group leader
- Food and Accommodation: Food and accommodation during the trek in tea houses (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Nepali Dinner: A farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
What’s Excluded
- Flight ticket: International flight tickets and airport tax
- Nepal visa: You can get your Nepal visa upon arrival at the airport
- City Lunch: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- City tour: city tour with a vehicle and entry fees for visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Personal expenses: like laundry, phone calls, snacks, drinks, bar bills, and camera battery charging
- Travel Insurance: It should cover emergency evacuation if needed, while trekking to the highest point listed in the itinerary
- Trekking Equipment: Personal trekking gears for your comfort and safety
- Transport IV: Local jeep or bus transport during the trek (if needed but not mentioned in the itinerary)
- Tips and Gifts: Gratuities for guides, porters, drivers, and staff are mandatory and highly expected as part of the trekking culture in Nepal.
Overview of the Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp Treks
The Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem, offering breathtaking views of peaks like Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993m), and Annapurna South (7,219m). Its quieter trails and moderate difficulty make it ideal for those seeking solitude. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek, a classic Himalayan adventure, leads to the base of Annapurna I (8,091m), the 10th highest peak globally, through lush forests, terraced fields, and the majestic Annapurna Sanctuary. Combining these treks creates a 10-14 day journey covering 90-110 km, blending off-the-beaten-path exploration with a world-renowned trail.
Best Time to Trek
For the Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, the best seasons are:
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views.
- Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility.
Avoid the monsoon (June to August) due to rain, slippery trails, and leeches. Winter (December to February) is colder, with potential snow at higher altitudes.
Difficulty and Fitness Level
- Mardi Himal Trek: Moderate, suitable for fit beginners. Involves steep ascents/descents, 5-7 hours daily trekking. Highest point: Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m).
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek: Moderate to challenging, requiring good fitness for 6-8 hours daily trekking. Highest point: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).
Altitude sickness is a risk above 3,000m. Acclimatization and gradual ascents are key.
Permits and Regulations
You need:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 22) for foreigners.
Preparation and Packing List
Physical Preparation
- Train 2-3 months prior with cardio (running, cycling, hiking).
- Practice hiking with a 5-10 kg backpack.
- Include stair climbing and leg strength exercises.
Packing List
- Clothing: Layered clothing (moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket/pants), trekking boots, hat, gloves, sunglasses, warm socks.
- Gear: 30-40L backpack, trekking poles, 4-season sleeping bag, headlamp, water bottle, water purification tablets.
- Essentials: First aid kit, sunscreen, lip balm, toiletries, medications, travel insurance (covering high-altitude trekking), cash (NPR).
- Miscellaneous: Camera, power bank, snacks (energy bars, nuts), lightweight daypack.
Pack light; consider hiring a porter for Annapurna Base Camp.
Note: if you want to know more about packing list. CLICK HERE
Accommodation and Food
- Teahouses: Basic lodges offer rooms (twin beds, shared bathrooms) for NPR 500-2,000 per night. Book ahead in peak seasons.
- Food: Teahouses serve Nepali (dal bhat), Indian, and Western dishes (pasta, pancakes). Budget NPR 500-1,000 per meal at higher altitudes. Carry snacks.
- Water: Use purification tablets or buy boiled water (NPR 100-300 per liter). Avoid plastic bottles.
Note: To know more about the food. CLICK HERE
Costs
Approximate costs (per person, excluding flights):
- Permits: USD 37
- Transport (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kande): USD 20-50
- Teahouse accommodation: USD 5-15 per night
- Food/water: USD 20-30 per day
- Guide (optional): USD 25-30 per day
- Porter (optional): USD 15-20 per day
- Total (12 days, without guide/porter): USD 300-500
NOTE: To know more about the Cost. CLICK HERE
Hiring Guides and Porters
- Guides: Enhance safety, navigation, and cultural insights (USD 25-30/day).
- Porters: Carry 15-20 kg (USD 15-20/day). Ensure they have proper gear.
- Hire through registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
Tips for a Successful Trek
- Acclimatization: Ascend gradually to prevent altitude sickness. Stay hydrated.
- Respect Culture: Dress modestly, ask before photographing, support local businesses.
- Pack Smart: Limit backpack weight; hire a porter for Annapurna Base Camp.
- Safety: Follow guides, stick to trails, carry a first aid kit.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi available in some teahouses (NPR 200-500). Use Ncell/NTC SIM.
- Environment: Avoid plastic, use reusable bottles, follow “leave no trace.”
Cultural Highlights
- Engage with Gurung and Magar communities in Landruk and Chomrong.
- Visit monasteries to learn about Buddhist traditions.
- Enjoy dal bhat, a trekker’s staple.
Challenges and Considerations
- Weather: Sudden changes at higher altitudes.
- Trail Conditions: Steep, rocky, or slippery sections.
- Altitude Sickness: Monitor symptoms; descend if needed. Consider Diamox (consult a doctor).
- Crowds: Annapurna Base Camp is busier than Mardi Himal.
Why Combine Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp?
- Variety: Quiet Mardi Himal trails complement ABC’s iconic Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Scenic Diversity: Forests, meadows, and glacial views.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Nepali Himalayan life.
- Moderate Challenge: Ideal for fit beginners and seasoned trekkers.
How Mardi Treks (Travel Agency) Will Help You
A reputable trekking agency like Mardi Treks can streamline your Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp experience:
- Permit Assistance: They handle ACAP and TIMS permits, saving you time.
- Itinerary Planning: Customized itineraries based on your fitness and preferences.
- Guides and Porters: Provide licensed, English-speaking guides and reliable porters.
- Logistics: Arrange transport (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kande), teahouse bookings, and meals.
- Safety: Guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management.
- Cultural Insights: Share knowledge about Gurung/Magar communities and local traditions.
- Emergency Support: Access to rescue coordination and travel insurance guidance.
Contact agencies like Mardi Treks via their websites or offices in Kathmandu/Pokhara for tailored packages.
Top 5 FAQs
How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp?
The Mardi Himal Trek is moderate, suitable for fit beginners, with steep sections. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is moderate to challenging due to longer days and higher altitudes. Good fitness and acclimatization are essential.
What is the best time for the combined trek?
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer clear skies and mild weather. Avoid monsoon (June-August) and prepare for cold in winter (December-February).
Do I need a guide or porter for this trek?
A guide is recommended for navigation, safety, and cultural insights, especially for Annapurna Base Camp. Porters ease the load, particularly for ABC’s longer stretches. Both can be hired via trekking agencies.
What permits are required?
You need an ACAP (NPR 3,000) and TIMS Card (NPR 1,000-2,000). Obtain them through the Nepal Tourism Board or a trekking agency.
What should I pack for the trek?
Pack layered clothing, trekking boots, a 4-season sleeping bag, trekking poles, water purification tablets, first aid kit, and travel insurance. Keep your backpack under 10 kg or hire a porter.
Conclusion
The Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp equips you for a transformative Himalayan adventure. With stunning peaks, cultural encounters, and the support of a trekking agency like Mardi Treks, this journey blends serenity and challenge. Plan carefully, respect local customs, and embark on this life-changing trek!
For permits or bookings, contact the Nepal Tourism Board or a trusted trekking agency. Happy trekking!
Contact Us:
Contact US
Location: Mardi Treks, Nepal
Email: info@marditreks.com
Phone: +977 9864379436