Difficulty
Trek distance: Throughout your trek to Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp, you will cover an approximate distance of 100 km/62.1 miles. On a daily basis, you will be trekking between 10 km to 14 km. There will be one day devoted to a longer trek, specifically the day you trek to Annapurna Base Camp to the Bamboo.
Difficulty level: The Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is an easy to moderate trek, featuring many ascents and descents along the trail. You will need to navigate elevations above 3,000 meters above sea level. While it is challenging, you can easily achieve it with determination and the support of an expert team.
Altitude sickness: Altitude sickness has a low chance of occurring on this route. You will spend a night at Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m). Nevertheless, it is important to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures. Stay hydrated, avoid haste, and pay attention to your body. It is crucial to consume an adequate amount of food, drink ample fluids, and dress appropriately. If you experience any discomfort or symptoms such as headache, vomiting, shortness of breath, or nausea, notify your guide promptly.
Previous trekking experience: This trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced mountaineers. Having prior experience or training in the mountains will make it easier to adjust during the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek.
Trek preparation: Researching the trekking region, facilities, trail conditions, and altitude before starting your trek is crucial. This preparation will help you understand the type of trekking gear you need, how to acclimate to the region, and how to build your stamina according to the trail's difficulty.
The best time to do Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp
Peak trekking seasons- Spring (March to April) and Autumn (September to November): Spring and autumn are the best time to do the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp. These two seasons have the best weather, climate, views, and trail conditions. Trekking in these seasons allows you to witness the rhododendron blooms and some of the biggest Nepali festivals.
Off-trekking seasons- Summer/monsoon (June to August) and Winter (December to February): Summer/monsoon and winter are the off-time for this trek because of high weather-related challenges. Both seasons have their own challenges, but summer/monsoon makes it much worse. You can still try to attempt the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp in winter with adequate preparation.
The Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp are at a relatively moderate elevation and do not pose a high risk, allowing trekkers to undertake the trek at any time of the year.
Accommodation and Meals
Rooms and Washroom: You will spend nights in lodges and guesthouses during the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp. You have to share the room with a fellow trekker. You can also opt for a single room by paying some extra money. The washrooms are not attached to the room usually, but you may get a private option in some places. The rooms are small and simple, with clean bedding.
Hot shower, charging, and WiFi: These are counted as an additional service in the lodges and guesthouses, and you may have to pay a few extra bucks to get them. Budget accordingly and have USD 15 to USD 20 for each day to use services like this. Internet connection will not be that good along the way.
Meals: You will get breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. All the meals will be provided as per the menu of the lodges and guesthouses. You can expect a wide variety of food, including dal bhat, fried rice, rice and curries, paratha, momos, noodles, pizza, set breakfast, bread items, burgers, sandwiches, porridges, thukapa, etc.
Drinking water and beverages: Boiled drinking water is available everywhere, so you do not have to buy bottled water. Just refill your reusable water bottle. It will also cost you quite less, too. In beverages, there are tea, coffee, juice, soft drinks, and hard drinks, etc.
Additional Information
Travel insurance: You have to get travel insurance with emergency evacuation for the Mardi Himal Base Camp. It is an important safety net that will help you with medical assistance or evacuation during the trek if such a situation arises.
Passport and visa: Get your passport and visa to enter Nepal. You can also apply for an arrival visa that you can obtain upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Travelers from some countries may not be eligible for an arrival visa, so check your country's visa eligibility.
Money exchange: There are many banks and money exchange centers in Kathmandu and Pokhara where you can exchange your money. Likewise, you can also withdraw money from ATMs. Carry small denominations of Nepali currency with you all the time.
Tips: Trekking is also a part of the hospitality industry. Tipping is common in Nepal, and porters and guides expect tips, as do drivers and watchmen. It's a good idea to set aside a certain amount for tips. While tipping is not mandatory, it is highly appreciated
Luggage: Normally, one porter carries 20 kg of belongings for two trekkers. It is recommended to pack 10 kg in a double bag and carry 5 kg in your day backpack. We provide double bags for the porters to ensure your belongings are safe from dust, water, and damage.
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