A Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek

A Complete Guide to Mardi Himal Trek: For trekking purposes, Annapurna Region is considered as adventurous and popular as Everest Region with its great hiking and trekking courses. Offering different courses with jaw-dropping beauty, Annapurna Region makes one of the best trekking regions. A complete guide to Mardi Himal trek in the Annapurna region lets you explore the scenic landscapes of the region.

Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively newly opened path in the Annapurna Region. Due to its newness and moderately scarcity nature, the number of trekkers is relatively less compared to Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill, and so on. So, if you want to trek through the Annapurna region with a less crowded route, the Mardi Himal trek is suitable. Like other trekking routes, the Mardi Himal trek is also filled with excitement, adventure, a suitable mixture of flora and fauna, and rich culture. To those interested in this wonderful trek, we have prepared a complete guide to the Mardi Himal trek.

Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek

1. Enjoy an easy, exciting, and less crowded trek that many trekkers overlook
2. Trek through the trails blooming with natural flora and fauna, including rhododendron and oak forests.
3. Pass through stunning landscapes and farmlands.
4. Experience warm and rich Nepalese culture at the local homestays.
5. Enjoy rich cultural and natural diversity along the way.
6. Relish the majestic view of Annapurna, Machhapurhre, and Mardi Himal.
7. Enjoy a forest camp surrounded by rich flora and fauna.

Ideal Time to approach Mardi Himal Trekking

The secret of selecting the ideal time to approach the Mardi Himal Trek lies in the climatic condition of the trekking region and the weather you want to trek in. Each season has its features and adventure to offer. What you find great weather might not be favorable for others. There are three seasons to trek to Mardi Himal.

Spring (March to May) offers a clear view with rich flora and fauna, including beautiful rhododendron. Autumn (September to November) has a moderate temperature and lush green forests. The days are warmer, and nights are a bit chillier. And, if you can withstand cold wind and snowfall, you can trek in winter (Late November to Early March). It is the ideal opportunity to enjoy the towering peaks at their best. Rain makes the trek dangerous. So, the trekking route is probably closed during monsoon.

The difficulty of Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek is relatively easier compared to other Annapurna Region Trekking routes. If you have no prior experience in hiking, Mardi Himal Trek is achievable without problems.

The highest point of the trek is 4200 m which is not a major challenge for even seniors. If you follow the instructions, trek slowly for about 4-5 hours a day, and rest properly for acclimatization, the trek will be a memorable experience.

Required Permits for Mardi Himal Trek

For Mardi Himal Trek, all the trekkers need to purchase Trekkers Information Management System and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. You will need two passport-sized photos to purchase permits. Both the permits can be purchased at Nepal Tourism Board for Kathmandu or Pokhara. Also, you need travel insurance for the trek.

Electricity and Internet

Electricity is available in your rooms at lower altitudes. But as you ascend height, you will find electricity only in common rooms of tea houses and not in your rooms.

If you want to charge your electric device, you will need to pay an extra charge. Ask for the pricing to charge the electric device. Usually, it is around NRS 100-150 per hour.

Food and Water

You can find various dishes ranging from local Nepali cuisine to international meals. The tea houses will provide you with a menu with different items. If you have any dietary restrictions, feel free to share them with your server. They will try their best to set you up with food that suits your need.

Water is accessible almost throughout the trek. You can buy mineral water along the trails. But we do not recommend buying water bottles as it will spoil the path. There are numerous taps from which you can fill water. If possible, use water sterilizing tablets and filter the tap water.

Tea Houses on Mardi Himal Trek

The teahouses on the trails are straightforward with all the basic needs. But you should not expect too much luxury. The homestays and teahouses are simply to provide sleep and food to voyagers. Also, be ready to share your room with other trekkers at a higher elevation.

Cash Transactions

The trails of Mardi Himal Trek pass through remote and inaccessible parts of the Annapurna Region. So, you will not see many shops, high buildings, or ATMs along the way. Foreign currency is also usually not accepted in those parts. You will need Nepalese cash to purchase items and services throughout the trek. So, make sure to exchange Nepalese cash either from Pokhara or Kathmandu. We need to carry Nepalese cash enough to last throughout the trek.

Solo Trekking

If you have the required permits, you are free to go solo trekking. However, we strongly suggest you not trek alone. Even if you are with a group of friends, someone needs to have prior trekking skills and knowledge of trails, and you need to be extra careful. The trails can be confusing, and you might take the wrong way. So, to avoid any kind of danger and inconveniences, travel with someone who knows the trails.

Restroom and Hot Shower

Showers and restrooms are generally outside of the housing area. Restrooms as generally squat type, and you might need to take a bucket bath as well. If you decide to take a hot water bath, you might need to pay an extra charge at a higher altitude.

Trekking routes to Mardi Himal Trek

Most Favorable Trekking Trail: The most common and favorable trek starts from Pokhara, drives to Phedi, and trips to Pothana on the main day. Then, a trip to Forest Camp the following day and high camp the next. After that, on the fourth day, climb to the upper viewpoint and drive to sliding town and back to Pokhara.

Other routes: Besides Pokhara, you can also start the trek from Ghandruk or Kande or Landruk

Recruiting Guides and Porter

If you cannot carry your weight properly, we highly suggest you hire an efficient porter. And you can also be safe and have a friend throughout the trek.

Travel Insurance for Mardi Himal Trek

As mentioned, travel insurance is also a must for Mardi Himal Trek and the Alpine Club of Himalaya takes care of that. The travel insurance covers your emergency helicopter evacuation, medical expenses, and coverage of a height of 4500 m above sea level. If you don’t have travel insurance, you are not eligible to complete the trek.

We, Alpine Club of Himalaya have prepared a complete guidebook for Mardi Himal Trek to help you in your trek. Feel free to contact us if you have any more queries.