Trip Introduction

Overview of  Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a 5 days moderate trek in the Annapurna region, starting from Pokhara and reaching a base camp at 4,500 m. Less crowded than nearby routes, it offers stunning panoramas of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself (5,587 m)

Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek

• Spectacular mountain views: Up-close vistas of the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre.
• Rhododendron forests: Especially vibrant in spring (March–May).
• Cultural immersion: Pass through Gurung and Magar villages.
• Tranquil trails: Teahouse lodges up to 3,550 m, then simple camps to base camp.

Mardi Himal Trek Package Cost

Standard 05-Days  Package Cost: $550 per person with Private Reserve Transport (Pokhara to Kande and Didding  to Pokhara)

Standard 05-Days  Package Cost:$490 per person with Local Transport (Pokhara to Kande and Sidding to Pokhara)

Includes: Airport Pickup and Drop, All the Public Transportation from Pokhara to Pokhara, accommodation during the trek, meals,Tea, Coffee, permits, guide and porter services, Bal Hiking Team Duffel Bag, Trekking Certificates, Staffs first aid kid, Seasonal fresh fruits and Biscuits etc.

International flights, Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara, Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara Transportation, Nepal visa, Travel insurance, Water, Wifi, Shower, Helicopter, Trekking Equipment, Guide /Porter Tips and personal expenses.

Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary Details

Day 1: Pokhara → Kande → Australian Camp

• Drive: Pokhara to Kande (1,775 m) – ~1 h by jeep or bus
• Trek: Kande → Australian Camp (2,005 m)
  • Distance & time: ~7 km, 3–4 h
  • Highlights: Panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare; rhododendron forests
• Overnight: Tea-house at Australian Camp

Day 2: Australian Camp → Forest Camp

• Trek: Australian Camp → Forest Camp (2,520 m)
  • Distance & time: ~7 km, 4–5 h
  • Trail: Gradual ascent through dense oak & rhododendron
• Highlights: Spotting Himalayan birds, first views of Mardi Himal ridge
• Overnight: Tea-house at Forest Camp

Day 3: Forest Camp → High Camp

• Trek: Forest Camp → High Camp (3,550 m)
  • Distance & time: ~8 km, 5–6 h
  • Trail: Steeper ascent, occasional snow in spring; switchbacks through scrub
• Highlights: Dramatic close-up of Annapurna South & Hiunchuli
• Overnight: Tea-house at High Camp

Day 4: High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp → Low Camp

• Trek:
  • High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m): 3 h round-trip (steep ridge trail)
  • Base Camp → Low Camp (2,900 m): 4–5 h descent
• Highlights: 360° Himalayan panorama at Base Camp; descent through forests
• Overnight: Tea-house at Low Camp

Day 5: Low Camp → Siding → Pokhara

• Trek: Low Camp → Siding (1,730 m)
  • Distance & time: ~10 km, 4–5 h
• Drive/Bus: Siding → Pokhara (820 m) – ~1.5 h
• Highlights: Final views of Machapuchare; rice terraces near Siding

Mardi Himal Trek in Autumn (September – November)

• Weather & Visibility
  After the summer monsoon clears out, skies are consistently blue and dry, giving you crystal-clear vistas of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare (“Fishtail”) and the Annapurna range
• Temperatures
  Daytime: 10 °C – 20 °C (50 °F – 68 °F)
  Nighttime: 0 °C – 10 °C (32 °F – 50 °F)
• Trail Conditions
  Dry, firm paths (minimal mud), very little rain risk, and fully-stocked tea-houses make for a smooth trek
• Crowds & Culture
  Peak trekking season, so expect moderate numbers—but still plenty of solitude compared to Everest/Langtang routes.

Mardi Himal Trek in Spring (March – May)

• Blossom Season
  Rhododendrons and wildflowers carpet the hillsides in reds, pinks and yellows—an absolute visual treat
• Weather & Visibility
  Stable pre-monsoon weather: mostly clear skies, low rainfall, and mild air make trekking very comfortable
• Temperatures
  Daytime: 15 °C – 20 °C (59 °F – 68 °F)
  Nighttime: 0 °C – 5 °C (32 °F – 41 °F)
• Facilities & Crowds
  Tea-houses are in full operation, though spring is also a popular time—book early to secure beds.

Mardi Himal Trek in Off-Seasons (Generally Not Recommended)

• Monsoon (June – August)
  Heavy rain, leeches, slippery/landslide-prone trails and often cloud-choked views
• Winter (December – February)
  Very cold, possible deep snow above 3,000 m, closed or sparse tea-houses—but can appeal if you seek solitude and don’t mind the chill.

Clothing for Mardi Himal Trek

• Base Layers
  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms (e.g. merino or synthetic)
• Mid Layers
  • Fleece jacket or insulated pullover
  • Lightweight insulated jacket (down or synthetic; ~300–600 g fill)
• Outer Layers
  • Waterproof, breathable shell jacket (hooded)
  • Waterproof shell pants
• Trekking Shirts & Pants
  • Quick-dry, UV-protective long- and short-sleeve shirts
  • Convertible zip-off trekking pants
• Warm Accessories
  • Warm hat/beanie
  • Sun-hat or baseball cap
  • Neck gaiter or buff
  • Lightweight gloves (for daytime)
  • Insulated winter gloves (for morning/evening at higher camps)
• Underwear & Socks
  • 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks
  • 1–2 liner sock pairs (optional)
  • Quick-dry underwear

Footwear for Mardi Himal Trek

• Trekking Boots
  • Sturdy, waterproof, broken-in mid-cut or high-cut boots
• Camp Shoes
  • Lightweight sandals or trail shoes for wearing around teahouses

Backpack & Sleeping for Mardi Himal Trek

• Daypack
  • 25–35 L pack with rain cover for daily essentials
• Main Duffel/Luggage
  • 60–70 L (if you’re porter-packing)
• Sleeping Bag
  • Rated to at least –5 °C (20 °F)
• Sleeping Bag Liner
  • Optional silk or fleece liner for extra warmth & hygiene

Technical Gear & Accessories for Mardi Himal Trek

• Trekking Poles
  • Adjustable, collapsible poles (helps on steep ascents/descents)
• Headlamp
  • With extra batteries (very useful in early starts or unexpected power cuts)
• Sunglasses
  • UV-rated glacier glasses or good-quality trekking sunglasses
• Water Bottles / Hydration Bladder
  • 1–2 L capacity plus purification method (tablets, filter, UV pen)
• Camera / Phone
  • With extra memory cards and power bank (solar charger optional)

Health, Safety & Toiletries in Mardi Himal Trek

• First-Aid Kit
  • Personal medications, blister pads, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, bandages
  • Diamox (acetazolamide) if you plan to use it for altitude acclimatization (consult your doctor)
• Sun Protection
  • High-SPF sunscreen (face & lips), SPF lip balm
• Toiletries
  • Biodegradable soap/shampoo, toothbrush & toothpaste, quick-dry towel
  • Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toilet paper (some teahouses may not stock it)
• Waterproof Dry Bags / Zip-locks
  • To keep electronics and clothes dry in rain

Documents & Money for Mardi Himal Trek

• Permits & TIMS Card
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
• Passport & Copies
  • Original passport plus two photocopies (keep separate)
• Cash
  • Nepali rupees (ATM access is limited beyond Pokhara)
• Travel Insurance
  • Covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation

Optional Comforts for Mardi Himal Trek

• Trekking Gaiters
  • To keep debris and snow out of your boots
• Travel Pillow
  • Inflatable neck pillow for teahouse beds
• Snacks
  • Energy bars, trail mix, chocolates for extra calories
• Entertainment
  • Book, deck of cards, journal & pen

Tips for Mardi Himal Trek

• Layering is key: Temperatures change dramatically from base to ridge (approx. 1,800 m → 4,500 m).
• Pack light: Porter-carried loads are limited to ~20 kg; aim for a 7–10 kg daypack.
• Dry your gear: Many teahouses will let you dry clothes on wood-burning stoves overnight.
• Hydrate & snack often: Altitude and effort increase calorie & fluid needs significantly.

Typical Daily Meal Schedule in Mardi Himal Trek

Menu Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek

• Dal Bhat Power
  • Nepal’s staple “rice + lentils” meal is on offer virtually everywhere, and it’s both filling and well-balanced. You’ll often be able to get extra refills of rice, lentils or curry at no charge.
• Western Comforts
  • Along the lower section of the trail (up to Forest Camp, ~2,500 m), you’ll find things like pasta, chowmein (stir-fried noodles), pizza or “mountain burger.” As you head above ~3,000 m, menu variety narrows.
• Altitude Adjustments
  • Above High Camp (3,680 m) expect simpler fare: noodle soup, porridge or boiled potatoes. Inventory is limited by porters and mules, so don’t be surprised if they run out of eggs or bread late in the season.

Cost Guide (Approximate per Item) in Mardi Himal Trek

• Breakfast or Dinner (set meal): ₹700–1,200 NPR
• Dal Bhat (lunch): ₹600–900 NPR
• Pasta/Chowmein: ₹700–1,000 NPR
• Tea/Coffee: ₹200–300 NPR
• Hot Lemon/Ginger Tea: ₹250–350 NPR
• Bottled Water (1 L): ₹200–350 N

Tips for a Smooth Dining Experience in Mardi Himal Trek

• Carry Snacks: Energy bars, nuts or chocolate are lifesavers on long stretches between villages.
• Stay Hydrated: Boiled or filtered water is available; ask for a “water purifier tablet” or bring your own filter.
• Be Flexible: If your favorite dish isn’t available, don’t fret—dal bhat refill is free, and it’s ideal for altitude.
• Respect Local Customs: Remove your shoes before entering dining rooms; wash hands in the basin provided.
• Pack a Light Utensil Kit (Optional): A spork or lightweight bowl can come in handy if you want to portion snacks or share.