Mardi Himal Budget Trek 2024-2025

Duration: 7 Days

Overview

  • Duration 7 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max. Altitude 3600m. | 11,811ft.
  • Trip Start and End Kathmandu-Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Pokhara-Mardi Himal-Forest Camp
  • Best Season All Seasons (Specially Autumn and Spring)

Highlights

  • Stunning Mountain Views: This budget-friendly Mardi Himal trekking offers spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and other majestic peaks. These vistas are a photographer's dream come true.
  • Mesmerizing Mardi Himal: The trek culminates at the Mardi Himal High Camp (3,600m), presenting breathtaking views of the namesake peak and the surrounding Himalayan range.
  • Spring Blooms: The blooming rhododendron forests in spring add a vibrant splash of color to the trek, making it an unforgettable experience, and Badal Danda is on the way.
  • Cultural Insights: Trekking through traditional villages offers a glimpse into local Nepali culture, their simple lifestyles, and age-old traditions.
  • Delectable Cuisine: Experience the unique flavors of Nepali cuisine throughout the trek. The warm, hearty meals rejuvenate trekkers and provide energy for the journey.
  • Warm Hospitality: The welcoming smiles and genuine hospitality of the local people enrich the trekking experience, creating cherished memories.
  • Budget-Friendly: The Mardi Himal trek is budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an affordable yet rewarding trekking experience in Nepal.
  • Short Trek: This short trek is perfect for those with limited time. Despite its duration, the trek doesn't compromise on the Himalayan experience.
  • Different Camp Experiences: Trekking from Low Camp to Forest Camp (2,600m) presents a variety of landscapes, each offering its unique charm and challenges.
  • Spectacular Sunrises: The trek offers the opportunity to witness a golden sunrise over Mt. Machhapuchre and Mt. Annapurna, a sight that is sure to take your breath away.

Mardi Himal Trek is a newly explored trip in Nepal, offering amazing views of majestic peaks like Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri. This 7-day trek is exciting but also suitable for first-time trekkers too. We begin our journey by stepping into the lush green wilderness, a thick forest full of colorful rhododendron, birch, oak, maple, hemlock, and daphnia. These beautiful forests provide a charming setting for a trek, making you feel closer to nature.

The journey for the Mardi Himal Trek primarily commences at Kande, located 27 kilometers to the north of the city of Pokhara. The trekking path winds its way from Kande to various waypoints including Australian Camp, Pothana, Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, Middle Camp (also known as Badal Danda), and High Camp, concluding at the Mardi Himal Base Camp. The journey then doubles back, diverging at Low Camp towards Siding Village. The overall length of the Mardi Himal Trek is 41 kilometers, which translates to approximately 25 miles. 

One of the prominent stopovers on the Mardi Himal Budget Trek is the Forest Camp. It's a place where trekkers rest and camp in the midst of a serene, dense forest. The Forest Camp allows you to immerse in the tranquil ambiance of the forest, watch the local wildlife, and listen to the whispering breeze. It's an essential part of the trek experience, offering a unique opportunity to connect deeply with the surrounding natural environment.

The trek route also includes the High Camp and the Low Camp. High Camp is the highest point of the trek, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the snowy peaks. Low Camp is the base camp where you rest before and after ascending to the High Camp. These camps act as stepping stones, assisting trekkers to gradually adapt to the increasing altitudes.

Another distinctive feature of this trek is the presence of two beautiful rivers - Mardi Khola and Modi Khola. Walking along the banks of these rivers, crossing over bridges, and listening to the peaceful sounds of the flowing water is a truly soothing experience. These rivers add a vibrant touch to the natural beauty of the trekking trail.

Best Time for Mardi Himal Budget Trek

The Mardi Himal Budget Trek is a joy anytime, but some periods are particularly special. In general, autumn and spring are considered the best times to embark on this adventure. Autumn spans from September to December and spring from March to June. These seasons offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures, enhancing the trekking experience.

Autumn brings stable weather, less rain, and clean air. This is when the mountains come alive with sparkling clarity. Plus, the forests are colored with shades of autumn, offering a magical view.

Spring is another favorite among trekkers. The weather is pleasant, not too cold nor too hot. More importantly, spring is when the rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal, blossoms, turning the forests into a riot of colors. This makes your trek not just a physical journey, but also a delightful sensory experience.
However, if you are a winter enthusiast, December to February could be your ideal time. The trek gets challenging due to the snow, but the landscape turns into a winter wonderland. It's important to note that winter trekking requires extra preparation for the cold.

Lastly, the months of June to August, the monsoon season, is typically avoided by trekkers due to heavy rainfall. The trails can be slippery and views are obscured by clouds. However, for those seeking solitude and lush green landscapes, this could be a unique time to trek.

Sightseeing during Mardi Himal Budget Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a trekker's paradise, rich in natural wonders and stunning landscapes. Starting from Pokhara, the gateway to many treks in the Annapurna region, you're introduced to a lively city with a beautiful lake, often graced by the paragliders in the sky.

As you proceed, you'll find yourself immersed in the lush, thick forests full of rhododendron, birch, oak, maple, hemlock, and daphnia. These forests are a feast for the eyes and home to several species of birds and animals. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Along the trek, with traditional houses, terraced fields, and friendly locals, this village gives you a glimpse into rural Nepalese life. Take some time here to explore and interact with the locals for a unique cultural experience.

Upon reaching the High Camp, you're greeted by the majestic views of Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri. This is the best part for mountain lovers. The panoramic vista of the snow-capped peaks against the bright blue sky is absolutely breathtaking.

The journey alongside the Mardi Khola and Modi Khola rivers adds a serene touch to your trek. The sound of the flowing water, the occasional sight of a waterfall, and the cool river breeze make for a soothing experience.

Mardi Himal Budget Trek: Is It Right for Me?

Deciding whether this short trek is right for you depends on several factors. If you are someone who enjoys nature and is excited by the prospect of walking through lush forests, quaint villages, and beautiful rivers, this trek might be an excellent fit. The majestic views of peaks like Mardi Himal, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri are certainly a highlight for mountain lovers.

In terms of physical fitness, this moderate-level trek requires a fair amount of walking, typically around 5-7 hours each day. So, you should be in good health and reasonably fit. If you're new to trekking, don't worry, as it's suitable for first-time trekkers too, given you prepare adequately beforehand.

The trek also gives you a chance to experience Nepalese culture closely. If you're someone who appreciates learning about new cultures and interacting with locals, you'll find this aspect fulfilling. Plus, staying in teahouses and eating local cuisine adds to the authenticity of the experience.

However, if luxury travel is your preference, you might find the basic accommodation and facilities during the trek a bit challenging. Also, if you're not a fan of walking or you're uncomfortable with altitude, the Mardi Himal Budget Trekking might be a tough endeavor.

Itinerary

Show Detail ItineraryClose Detail Itinerary

Our adventure begins with a scenic bus ride from the bustling city of Kathmandu to the tranquil lakeside city of Pokhara. As we journey through the Nepali countryside, we'll be greeted by green hills, terraced farms, and charming settlements along the Trishuli River. Once we arrive in Pokhara, we'll check into our hotel and refresh ourselves for the trek that lies ahead.

In the evening, we suggest exploring the vibrant Lakeside area. Here, you'll see the beautiful Phewa Lake, with its calm waters reflecting the stunning snow-clad Himalayan peaks. Don't forget to taste some local delicacies at one of the many restaurants lining the Lakeside. Our first night will be spent in the comfort of our Pokhara hotel, with a delightful breakfast awaiting us in the morning.

Note: If you choose the flight option to Pokhara then the flight charges will be separately added to your costing.

On our second day, we'll drive from Pokhara to Kande, marking the commencement of our exciting trek. The trail gradually ascends from Kande, taking us through the Australian Camp and finally to Deurali. Throughout this journey, you'll witness magnificent views of the Annapurna range, picturesque terraced fields, and quaint villages that dot the landscape.

Upon reaching Deurali, we can relax and rejuvenate at our guest house. As night falls, we'll enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner, preparing us for the next day's adventure. The guest house will provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring we are well-nourished for our journey.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at Deurali, we will continue our journey toward Forest Camp. As we ascend through the dense forests teeming with rhododendron and oak trees, the beauty of nature surrounds us. We'll keep our eyes open for the many bird species that inhabit this region and perhaps spot some wildlife along the way.

Upon arrival at Forest Camp, the evening is free for us to relax or explore the immediate surroundings. We'll spend the night at our guesthouse, where a sumptuous dinner awaits us.

After an early breakfast, we'll set off for High Camp. The day's trek will take us through lush pastures and provide panoramic views of the spectacular Himalayan peaks, including the unique Fishtail Peak. As we make our ascent, you'll feel the altitude but the breathtaking vistas more than make up for the effort.

Once we reach High Camp, take a moment to admire the awe-inspiring scenery, with the Annapurna range standing majestically against the sky. After half an hour break in the High Camp, we still ascend our trek up to 4500m. After walking for around 3.5 hrs we reach our destination Mardi Himal Base Camp. We enjoy the best view of Mardi Himal and other mountains in the region and head down to the High Camp again.

We'll retire for the night at High Camp, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Today, we begin with an early morning trek to the viewpoint, greeted by the impressive peaks of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. Then, we'll proceed to the Mardi Himal, walking on the edge of the mountain, an exhilarating experience you won't soon forget. After spending some time absorbing the majestic sights, we'll begin our descent to Low Camp after lunch.

Upon reaching Low Camp, you'll have some time to rest and rejuvenate. Our night will be spent at the guest house, where you can enjoy a nourishing dinner.

After breakfast, we'll embark on the trek down to Siding. The trail will take us through lush green fields and local villages, offering a chance to witness rural Nepali life up close. Upon reaching Sidim, we'll take a comfortable drive back to Pokhara in a shared jeep.

Once in Pokhara, we recommend visiting Davis Falls, Gupteshwar Cave, and the Tibetan Refugee Camp. As the day draws to a close, unwind with a serene boat ride on Phewa Lake. We'll spend the night in our Pokhara guesthouse, with breakfast and lunch provided.

After breakfast, we'll board a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. Enjoy the final views of the scenic countryside as we make our way back to the capital city. Arriving in Kathmandu by the afternoon, you'll have time to explore the bustling area of Thamel.

Feel free to shop for souvenirs, sample local street food, or just relax in your hotel room. Your final night will be spent in Kathmandu, with a delicious breakfast ready for you the following morning.

Note: If you choose the flight option to Kathmandu then the flight charges will be separately added to your costing. You will even have the option to end your trek in Pokhara and be involved in other programs like the Pokhara trip, Lumbini Tour, Chitwan Jungle Safari, and many more.

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Trip Map

Mardi Himal Budget Trek 2024-2025 map

Cost Details

Included

  • Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
  • Surface transfer to and from Pokhara by tourist bus
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
  • One highly experienced, Government Licensed and High Altitude Environment Trained Guide
  • Porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, and equipment
  • Accident insurance for all staff
  • Trekking map/ Himalayan Scenery Trekking Hat, and trip achievement certificate
  • First aid medical kit, Oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitudes
  • ACAP Permit & TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
  • Worst case, help with all rescue and evacuation arrangements
  • Government taxes & office service charge 

 

Excluded

  • Personal Travel insurance
  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa.
  • Snacks /Drinks and other personal expenses
  • Hot showers during the trek
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • WiFi internet and phone call unless it’s free
  • Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
  • Single Trekker Supplement Fee $150

 

Useful Info

Preparing for Mardi Himal Budget Trek

Preparing for the Mardi Himal Budget Trek involves both physical and mental readiness. Physically, you should be in good shape as the trek involves walking for several hours daily. Regular exercises like jogging, cycling, or swimming can help. Including some uphill walks or stair climbing can prepare your body for the uphill and downhill sections of the trek.

Mental preparation is equally important. Be ready for unexpected changes in weather or plans. Understanding that trekking is more about the journey than just reaching the destination will help in maintaining a positive mindset. Patience and determination are your best friends on a trek.

Equally crucial is preparing your trekking gear. Good hiking shoes, trekking poles, a warm sleeping bag, and suitable clothing for varying weather conditions are essential. A waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and sunglasses should also be included. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views!

Altitude sickness can be a concern, so it's advisable to learn about its symptoms. While the trek isn't very high, everyone's body reacts differently to altitude. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and ascending slowly can help prevent it.

Last but not least, research about the local culture and customs. Nepal is rich in cultural diversity, and respecting local traditions will enrich your trekking experience.

Food and Accommodation

During the Mardi Himal Trekking, you'll stay in tea houses, which are simple guesthouses run by locals. They provide basic accommodation with clean beds and shared bathroom facilities. Staying in these tea houses offers a great opportunity to interact with locals and fellow trekkers. Plus, it supports local economies.

The food during the trek is nutritious and designed to keep your energy levels high. Breakfast typically includes items like toast, eggs, and porridge. Lunch and dinner might consist of Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepalese meal with lentil soup, rice, and vegetables. You'll also find pasta, pizza, momo (dumplings), and noodle dishes on the menu.

It's important to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes, so drinking plenty of water is a must. Most tea houses provide boiled water, but carrying water purification tablets can be a good idea. Snacks like granola bars, nuts, and chocolate can be carried for quick energy during the trek.

Remember, the trek is in a remote area, so luxury is not the focus here. But the warm hospitality of the locals, delicious home-cooked meals, and the joy of simple living amidst nature more than compensate for it.

Permits Requirement

Before embarking on the journey to Mardi Himal, you need to secure a few necessary permits. These permits are important to ensure the protection of the natural and cultural environment of the region and to keep track of trekkers for safety reasons.

The first one is the Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit (ACAP). This permit allows you to trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area, where Mardi Himal is located. The cost of ACAP is $25. This permit is crucial for the conservation efforts in the region.

The second one is the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card. It's a safety measure to keep track of trekkers in the region. The TIMS card costs $15. With this card, if any problems occur during the trek, rescue and search teams can locate and help you.

You can obtain these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Make sure to carry your passport and two passport-sized photos. The process is relatively straightforward and can be done quickly. Remember, these permits are your ticket to the adventure that awaits in the Mardi Himal trek.

Altitude Sickness Prevention


Altitude sickness can be a concern while trekking in high-altitude areas like Mardi Himal. It occurs due to a rapid ascent to high altitudes, resulting in lower levels of oxygen. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. However, there are steps you can take to prevent it.

First, acclimatization is key. This means you ascend slowly, giving your body time to adapt to the changing altitude. The Mardi Himal trek itinerary is usually designed with this in mind, with rest days and gradual ascents. Staying hydrated is very important. Drinking plenty of water helps your body adjust to the altitude. But remember to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.

Eating a high-calorie diet can also help. Your body works harder at high altitudes, so it needs more energy. Regular, nutritious meals will keep your energy levels up. Getting enough sleep is also crucial. Your body recovers and adjusts better while you're resting, so make sure you get good sleep during your trek.

Finally, it's essential to listen to your body. If you feel any symptoms of altitude sickness, let your guide know. Don't push yourself to keep going if you're feeling unwell.

Remember, everyone's body reacts differently to altitude, so it's important to take these precautions. And if symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical help.

Mardi Himal Budget Trek Difficulty

The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate-level trek. It is not too challenging for those who are reasonably fit, but it does require a fair amount of physical exertion. It is important to note that 'moderate' doesn't mean it's easy; it's still a trek in the high Himalayas!

You'll be walking for about 5-7 hours each day over varied terrains. The trails pass through thick forests, along ridges, and over uneven paths. While the route doesn't involve technical climbing, there are steep ascents and descents that can be challenging.

Altitude is another factor that adds to the difficulty. The highest point of the trek, the Mardi Himal Base Camp, is at an elevation of 4,500 meters. The increased altitude can result in less oxygen and can lead to altitude sickness if you're not properly acclimatized.

The weather can also affect the difficulty of the trek. During winter, the trail may be covered in snow, making the trek more challenging. During monsoon, the trails can get slippery and the views might be obscured by clouds.

However, don't let these challenges deter you. With good preparation, a positive attitude, and an adaptable mindset, you can successfully complete the Mardi Himal Budget Trek and enjoy the rewarding journey through one of the most scenic landscapes in Nepal.

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