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Mardi Himal Trek: A serene, less-crowded trek in the Annapurna Region, the Mardi Himal Trek leads to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) with stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). It offers peaceful trails through rhododendron forests and Gurung villages.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek: A popular trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m), this journey takes you to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by towering peaks. It combines vibrant Gurung culture, lush valleys, and breathtaking Himalayan views.
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
The Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary adventure that blends two of Nepal’s most captivating trekking routes in the Annapurna Region. This 10- to 15-day journey takes you through vibrant rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and rugged alpine ridges, offering breathtaking Himalayan views of iconic peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Perfect for trekkers seeking a mix of iconic Himalayan grandeur and quieter trails, this moderate trek delivers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and adventure. In this blog, we’ll explore the highlights, cultural richness, practical tips, and how Mardi Treks can make your Himalayan trekking journey seamless and memorable.
Why Combine the Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a unique opportunity to explore two distinct base camps: Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,763ft) and Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,549ft). The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a legendary route, renowned for its dramatic entry into the Annapurna Sanctuary, a glacial amphitheater encircled by towering peaks. In contrast, the Mardi Himal Trek is a hidden gem, offering quieter trails, pristine landscapes, and intimate views of Machhapuchhre. Combining these routes creates a perfect balance: the vibrant, social atmosphere of the Annapurna Region meets the serene, off-the-beaten-path charm of Mardi Himal.
This trek appeals to:
- Beginners with moderate fitness, as the gradual ascents make it a moderate trek.
- Experienced trekkers seeking a less crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp.
- Cultural enthusiasts eager for cultural immersion in Gurung villages.
- Nature lovers captivated by rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and stunning Himalayan views.
How Mardi Treks Will Help You?
At Mardi Treks, we’re committed to making your Himalayan journey smooth, safe, and unforgettable. From personalized planning to on-the-ground support, we handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying the trail.
Here’s how we support you:
- Customized trek planning based on your preferences
- Experienced, friendly guides and porters
- Hassle-free permits and logistics
- 24/7 support during your trek
- Local insights for an authentic experience
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Faq’s
What is Mardi Himal with Annapurna Base Camp Trek like?
It’s a 10-15 day moderate adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna Region, combining the quiet Mardi Himal route (4,500m) with the popular Annapurna Base Camp route (4,130m). Expect stunning mountain views, Gurung village culture, and relaxing hot springs.
What is the best time for the Trek?
Autumn (Sep-Nov) offers clear skies and cool weather. Spring (Mar-May) has blooming forests and mild days. Avoid monsoon (Jun-Aug) for slippery trails and winter (Dec-Feb) unless you’re ready for cold and snow.
How challenging is the Mardi Himal Trek with Annapurna Base Camp?
It’s a moderate trek with 4-7 hours of daily hiking, suitable for fit beginners. Altitude above 3,000m requires proper acclimatization to avoid sickness.
What should I pack?
Pack layered clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag (-10°C), poles, headlamp, water purifier, sunscreen, first-aid kit, and cash for teahouse meals ($3-7) and rooms ($2-10).
How can Mardi Treks help?
Mardi Treks plans your itinerary, secures permits, arranges Pokhara transport, and provides guides and porters for safety and cultural insights