Mardi Himal Trek

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
One of the Representative from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure will be waiting for you outside the Tribhuvan International airport terminal holding your name to escort you to your specified Hotel. Upon your arrival you will be warmly welcomed and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. After Check in you will be briefed to carry out the final preparation required for the trek. So that you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing (4 – 6hr)

Your guide for the Mardi Trek from Himalayan Sanctuary will pick you up from the hotel after breakfast today. Visit our office for a quick orientation session for the Mardi Himal trek and complete the preparation. From here you will head for a heritage tour of the Kathmandu Valley. You will visit the world heritage sites and beautiful cultural fascinations around the valley today. Some of these might be: –

• Swayambhunath Temple:

Popularly known as the ‘Monkey Temple’, is one of the amazing oldest heritage sites in Nepal. From the Temple viewpoint at the top, you can have a full-extent view of the Nepalese capital.

• Durbar Squares:

The major cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur (Patan) here signify the rich history, art, architecture, tradition, and culture within the Kathmandu Valley and these three Durbar Squares are Nepal’s treasure among them you will vist Patan Darbar Square.

• Pashupatinath Temple:

The Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Asia with over 500 small and big shrines, Lingams, and temples in the temple complex.

• Boudhanath Stupa: 

One of the largest stupas in the world and the focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in the Kathmandu valley. One of the best places to relax and take a hint of Buddhist culture is in Kathmandu. We will return to the hotel after sightseeing around the Kathmandu Valley. Stay overnight at Thamel.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara(7 – 9hr)

After breakfast, our guide will take you to the bus station near Thamel. You’ll embark on a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to the stunning city of Pokhara via the highway. The beautiful scenery on the way to Pokhara will make your trip wonderful. Stop over for lunch or coffee halfway. You will drive straight to your hotel here and rest for the day. You can enjoy brief strolls to the lakeside vicinity close to your hotel in the evening. Overnight at Pokhara.

Day 04: Drive to Phedi, Trek to Deurali (2,100 m/6889.76ft) 4 – 6 hr

The trek starts from Phedi today which is about a 45-minute drive from the Pokhara valley. After reaching Phedi, we will start walking on a bit relaxed trail to Deurali. This well-managed path passes through the iconic Dhampus village. The trail covered with stones leads us to Dhampus village. We will continue the trek to a small rim after having lunch. We will reach the small beautiful village of Deurali after an hour of trekking. We will rest for the day in a lodge/teahouse here. Overnight at Deurali.

Day 05: Deurali to Forest Camp (2,600 m/8530ft)

Before commencing the trek, take in the stunning sights of Machhapuchhre (also known as “fishtail”) and Mardi from Deurali. A grand and clear view of these peaks in clear weather. We will walk through rhododendron forests and small beautiful villages before reaching the Forest camp. This area is locally known as Kokkar. An amazing view of the natural surrounding scenery from the camp. Stay overnight in the Forest Camp.

Day 06: Forest Camp to High Camp (3560 m/11680ft)

A slow uphill walk to High Camp today. Stopping briefly at the low camp we will have our lunch in a teahouse here. As we approach the high camp, we’ll witness a noticeable transformation in the vegetation and landscape. The fantastic views of diverse floras and faunas upon walking around the trail. After three hours of a climb from the low camp will see us reach the High Camp. Overnight at a lodge/teahouse.

Day 07: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m/14763ft)

Early we will start the hike to the Mardi Himal base camp to witness a beautiful sunrise over the snow-capped peaks. The dominating Himalayas in the skyline is magical. We will continue our trek further to the highest point of the trail. Walking on a gradual uphill path we will reach the base camp after a couple of hours. From the base, we can have alluring views of Mardi, Fishtail, Tent Peak, Annapurna Massif, Hiunchuli, Baraha Shikhar, and many other snow-capped peaks of the region. After a fantastic time in the base camp, we will return to High Camp. Overnight at a teahouse.

Day 08: High Camp to Sidhing (1,750 m/ 5740ft)

We will trek back to Pokhara via Sidhing village. Today we will be descending downhill from the High Camp. The views are fantastic from this segment of the walk too. Passing numerous small forests dominated by rhododendron patches we will drop down from the camp. We will go pass through small shrines and monasteries on the way to Sidhing village. Sidhing is one of the major villages in the area and one can get a taste of the village lifestyle here. Rest, relax, and overnight at a hotel/lodge here.

Day 09:  Sidhing to Pokhara ( 5 – 6hr)

We will have an enjoyable downhill walk to Lumre. The breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, terraced fields, and green hills are refreshing. We will complete this short trek at Lumre back to Pokhara in a cab. Take some time to relax at your hotel after arriving, then venture out to discover the city. You can rejuvenate yourself by visiting the lakeside area and admiring the gorgeous sunset and surroundings. Don’t forget to indulge in some Thakali cuisine and experience the vibrant nightlife of Pokhara. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Day 10: Drive back to Kathmandu(7 – 9 hr)

You may visit some local places in Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu. Following breakfast, your guide will accompany you to a nearby bus station where you’ll board a bus back to the capital. Once you arrive, you’ll return to your hotel in Thamel. Explore the lively Thamel market, and purchase some souvenirs shopping in your free time. You are welcome for a farewell dinner and to share your experiences with us. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 11: Departure Day

We will receive you at the hotel and depart you to the TIA. We will hope you have some great memories of the Mardi Himal Trek and that the services you get with Himalaya Sanctuary are satisfactory.

Price Included

• Pick up and drops from Airport
• 3 – Star category Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara including Breakfast.
• Teahouse /Lodge  Accommodation  including Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during the trek
• Kathmandu  Valley  Sightseeing (4 – 6hr)
• Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu  Transportation by  Tourist Coach.
• Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure Duffel Bag
• An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), and  porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
• All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, TIMS )
• A comprehensive medical kit
• All government and local taxes

Price Excluded

• Nepalese visa fee
• Entrance  Fee for  Sightseeing
• International airfare to and from Kathmandu
• Excess baggage charges
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
• Travel and rescue insurance
• Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, All kinds of hot and Cold drinks, battery recharge, extra porters, Tea, Coffee, bottle or boiled water, Wi-Fi, hot shower, etc.)
• Tips for guides and porters

The Mardi Himal trek is popular and relatively one of the Short and Less Crowed Trekking in Annapurna Region. Traverse through charming ethnic Magar and Gurung villages, interact with local people, and immerse in their culture, and lifestyle. This short duration Mardi trek has now become popular and  also renowned as ‘Photographer’s Paradise’. Mardi View point, the vantage point for sunrise and sunset views over snow-capped peaks is every photographer’s delight. The views captivates everyone, the scenic vistas, panoramic mountain views, beautiful Lake City on the way and back, Pokhara Valley, and sunrise or sunset add more value. Witness the awesome views of the Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. This trek is likely to leave an impression and desire more, ensuring repeat visits.

Features of Mardi Himal Trek

• Popular, less crowed and relatively easy trek
• Renowned as ‘Photographer’s Paradise’
• Charming ethnic villages, local people, culture, and lifestyle
• Sunrise and Sunset over breathtaking snow-capped peaks
• Awesome views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri

Accommodation during the Trek

Guesthouses or lodges are accommodation means during the trek where full board 3-course meals are served. Guesthouses are basic but comfortable and offer a bed, pillows, and a blanket. Pay an extra cost for the use of Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, shower, and charging devices. The attached bathrooms are also  available.

Meals during the Trek

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are meals served during the trek from guesthouses or lodges. From authentic Nepali Dal-Bhat dishes to continental dishes various options are there. Eggs, noodles, soups, roti, coffee, tea, etc. are some popular choices.

Drinking Water during the  Trek

Tap water, bottled water, and boiled water are drinking water options during the trek. Bottled water costs USD 1 to 2 while pay an additional charge for boiled water in guesthouses. For safe drinking water, always carry water purifying solutions and a water bottle for ease.

Internet and Phone Networks during the  Trek

Internet and Phone networks during the trek are stable and have strong connections Moreover, buy a local SIM for calls and use a data pack for using Wi-Fi.

Best Seasons for the  Trek

Mardi Himal trek can be done throughout the year. All seasons offer different views but still many consider Spring as the best season followed by Autumn. In these seasons, the weather is stable with mild to warm temperatures, clear skies, phenomenal views, comfortable trails, and mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views over snow-capped peaks. Due to heavy rainfall during monsoons and cold weather during winter seasons, very few travelers prefer these seasons.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty

Mardi Himal base camp(4,500 m) is the maximum elevation during the  Trek. This is a relatively easy trek and is not very difficult compared to the other trek in Annapurna and Everest base camp. Still, a good level of fitness requires walking for long hours daily. Prepare and plan well as this trek is easily doable.

Altitude Sickness and Preventions during the  Trek

Getting altitude sickness during the Mardi himal trek is very minimal as the highest elevation is at (4,500 m). For only a few hours, trekkers will be here, and getting altitude sickness is very low. But, still, precautions are necessary.

Some common Symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, nausea, and breathing issues. Inform your guides if you experience any symptoms during the trek.

 Preventive measures for Altitude Sickness are:

• Stretch and warm up before trekking.
• Stay hydrated with regular water intake.
• Ascend gradually and rest well.
• Avoid salt, alcohol, and smoking.
• Urinate frequently.
• Descend if feeling unwell.
• Consult guides for medicine.

Fitness Level during the  Trek

Good fitness during the trekking is always commendable. Familiarity with mountainous terrain, previous trekking experiences along with good health and physical fitness are favorable factors during this trek.

Travel Insurance during the  Trek

Travel Insurance is essential to have as it safeguards from emergencies and unforeseen events. Get insurance from a reputed travel insurance company. Be covered for medical treatment, helicopter rescue, accidents, loss/theft of belongings, and unforeseen events.

Check FAQ,

Guides and Porters during the Trek

Guides and porters during the  treks are completely trekker’s personal preference. But, we still recommend having a guide and a porter for a smooth, better, and memorable trekking experience. Their knowledge and skill proved to be beneficial.

Mardi Himal Trek Permits

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

USD 30/person (Foreigners)
NPR 1000/person (SAARC)

Packing List 

Sleeping bag

Down jacket

LED headlight

Water bottle

First-aid kit

Water purification solution

Trekking Poles

Raincoat

Head Lamp

Sunglasses

Socks

Sunscreen

1. What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me ?

The Mardi Himal trek is suitable for average people who are moderately fit, thus no previous experience is required. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, and hiking is recommended before you embark on your journey. Persons suffering from a pre-existing medical condition must seek medical advice/consent before considering the trek. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.

1. Is it possible to reserve a trip now and pay a deposit later or do I Have to pay a deposit at booking/reservation ?

Yes! The trip will be confirmed only when we receive the completed final booking form and a 30% deposit payment. You can pay the balance of the money when you arrive in Kathmandu.

1. Will somebody come to pick me up from the airport upon my arrival ?

Yes, our representative from Himalayan sanctuary adventure will be there displaying your name outside the arrival terminal then you will be transferred to your hotel overnight.

1. What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking ?

We use standard rooms at 2-star Category hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara including breakfast  Along the trekking routes, teahouses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We recommend you have sleeping bags, it is a good idea to always have your sleeping equipment. The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory style. At times when possible, dining will be around a bonfire. In teahouses, food will be prepared in the kitchen, which you should not enter without permission. The toilet in teahouses provides essential and basic facilities and is always outside the room.

1. Are the guesthouses heated ?

The guesthouse does not facilitate with heater or air conditioner. However as it gets colder above 3,500m, they do have the facility of hitting the dining area by providing kerosene or metal heater. USD 1 to USD 3 per person would be applicable to use this service and this is payable directly to the guesthouse.

1. Where do we go to the toilet along the trail ? 

Wherever possible we utilize the toilet facilities provided by the tea houses/lodges on the trail. However, in case of emergency trekkers are recommended to find a private, scenic spot!

1. What are the Toilet facilities in the tea house/guesthouse ?

Most of the tea houses do have western-style flushing toilets however tea houses at higher elevations you could find the squat toilets made of either a ceramic basin on the ground or a few planks precariously positioned over a hole in the ground which is always outside.

1. What is the best season for this trekking ?

Our trekking season extends from mid-September to May. From early September the monsoonal rains decrease. By the end of September through to December, the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, and cold nights. February, March, April, May, October, November, and December is the best time to do the Mardi Himal trek.

1. Is the food in the mountain prepared to international standards in terms of safety ?

Yes, the food is very safe during the trekking but we recommend you eat vegetarian and local food. Please follow the suggestion of our guide on the trek.

1. Is water provided and is there water for drink available at higher altitudes? Is it filtered/boiled ?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and tea houses so you can buy bottled water at the cost of USD 1 up to USD 3. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

1. Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms for the trip? If so how much extra will this cost ?

Normally the lodges have twin-sharing and dormitory-styled rooms. The lodges will provide a private room for one person when available. In Kathmandu, USD 45 Per Room per Night would be added as a single supplement fee. The single supplements are always guaranteed in Kathmandu but not in the mountains especially during the peak time.

1. What immunizations will I need ?

No vaccinations are compulsory in the Himalayas, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria, TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Malaria, typhoid, polio, and tetanus. We also recommend to you know your blood group in case of an emergency.

1. What if I am very sick in the mountain?

Our guides are 24 hours available for services during the trek. They are trained to use the first aid kit and have the knowledge to use an Oxy meter. Guides carry local sim cards for both Nepal Telecom and Ncell to update the whereabouts and the situation of every client. During the time of emergency, our guides are alert and keep updated with the head office in Kathmandu that is available 24 /7 to arranging from horses to mules or helicopters in the most needed cases especially when the client is seriously sick in the mountain and needed to be hospitalized.

1. Can I obtain a visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport ?

Yes, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, a Tourist Visa with Multiple entries for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.

1. How much additional money do I need per day ?

It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can allocate USD 10 to USD 15 for lunch and dinner. USD 20 to USD 30 per person a day will be enough to buy meals, bottles of water, and chocolates, pay for the hot shower, and a few drinks during the trekking.

1. Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking ? 

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, yes – to some extent. Once you are out of the cities, all you need is cash. Please change the currency to local Nepali Rupees before you go to the mountains.

1. What mode of transportation do you use ?

We provide you only those options, which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours, and pick-ups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans, and tourist bus to and from Kathmandu/ Pokhara.

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