Overview:

Recently gaining popularity, the Mardi Himal trek is one of the Annapurna Region’s most beautiful and rewarding treks. It is a perfect alternative to the crowded trails of the Annapurna region. Situated close to Pokhara, this short trek is slowly getting the attention it deserves. It is one of the hottest treks in Nepal right now, and many youngsters love it. This trek takes you through different landscapes, from dense forests to snow-capped peaks. This trek is also considered the one that gives the best views of Mount Machchapuchhre.

People who are short on time can easily choose this trek, which can be completed in less than a week. With a moderate level of difficulty, the Mardi Himal Trek is also accessible for beginners. Low Camp, High Camp, and Upper View Point are the trail’s famous vantage points. The trek encapsulates cultural diversity, stunning mountain views, diverse biodiversity, and changing terrain all in one. This article explores everything you need to know about the Mardi Himal Trek.

Some Important Information About The Mardi Trek:

  • Trek’s Maximum Elevation: 4500 meters, Mardi Base Camp
  • Trek’s Duration: 4-6 days
  • Trek’s Starting Point: Pokhara
  • Location: Annapurna, Kaski District, Nepal
  • Trek’s Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights Of The Mardi Himal Trek:

  1. Numerous ViewPoints: Along the way to Mardi’s base camp, you will encounter many viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna, Machchapuchhre, and other mountains in the Annapurna region. The low camp and high camp are some of the famous viewpoints on the way to base camp. This makes this trek one of the most picturesque treks in Nepal.
  2. Accessible: This trek can easily be completed within a week. Making it one of the most accessible treks in the entire Annapurna region. Being relatively short, this trek doesn’t compromise on natural beauty. It’s a perfect choice for adventurers who are short on time but want to experience the Annapurna region.
  3. Less Crowded Trail: Although this trek is slowly gaining popularity, it is still one of the less crowded treks in the Annapurna region. People seeking solitude can embark on this beautiful trek with amazing mountain scenery.
  4. Cultural Immersion: During this trek, trekkers can experience and learn more about the local Gurung culture. You can also help the people running family businesses like the local tea houses and lodges by staying overnight in them.
  5. Diverse plants and animals of the Annapurna region: Trekkers can glimpse this region’s rare animals and plant species during the trek. Some famous animals of this region include Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, and Clouded Leopard.
Mardi Trek
Mardi Himal Trek (Source: Vertical Life)

 

Itinerary

  • Day 1- Pokhara to Kande and Trek to Deurali: On the first day of your trek, you will drive to Kande from Pokhara, which is a one-hour drive. From Kande, you will start to trek towards Deurali. On the way, you will cross Pothana Village. On the first day, you will stay overnight at Deurali.
  • Day 2- Deurali to Low Camp: On the second day, you will reach the Low Camp of the Mardi Himal. You will walk for 6-7 hours on this day, but the trek is not too strenuous. The trail is mostly forested, and as you ascend, the panoramas of the mountains become more beautiful. You will stay overnight at Low Camp on day 2.
  • Day 3- Low Camp to High Camp: On the next day, you will reach High Camp. The altitude suddenly rises, and the High Camp is 3550 meters in elevation. From High Camp, you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of the Annapurna region.
  • Day 4- High Camp to Mardi Base Camp and back to Siding Village: On the fourth day, you will reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp. You can also hike to the viewpoint at 4200 meters, which gives stunning views of Annapurna and Machchapucchre. On the same day, you can return back to Siding Village.
  • Day 5- Siding Village to Pokhara: On the last day of your trek, you can return to Pokhara on a jeep from Siding Village.

Accommodation and Permits

There are tea houses and lodges all the way up to the Base camp, so accommodation is pretty comfortable throughout the trek. However, the tea houses and lodges are fairly expensive, so bring enough money. You will also need the Annapurna region’s permit in order to trek in this region.

Also Read: Ganesh Himal Trek: What To Expect and How To Prepare