Short Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek-5 Days-Itinerary-Cost-Package-2024/2025

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek - 5 Days
At a Glance
  • Duration5 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 4,500 m/14,764
  • Group Size 2-30
  • Trip Style trek
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Highlights
  • The path traverses the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is inhabited by a variety of plant and animal species, such as rhododendron forests that exhibit a stunning bloom during the spring season.
  • Short, easy-to-moderate trek for beginners and all kinds of trekkers
  • Spend nights in the traditional mountain lodge in the village and witness the lifestyle of the local
  • Mardi Himal trail situated beside the Annapurna Base Camp
  • The trek can be done within 5-7 days, which is perfect for those who have limited time
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna Massif, including Hiunchuli, Fishtail, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Mardi, and other peaks
  • You get spectacular views of the sacred and unclimbed peak of Machapuchare (6,993 meters / 22,943 feet).
  • The Mardi Himal trek offers a quieter and more tranquil trekking experience compared to the busier Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks.
  • Walk through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and alpine meadows.
  • The trek can be combined with Annapurna Base Camp

The short Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek can be completed in just 5-7 days, making it an ideal option for trekkers. Which is located in Annapurna region, it is a newly opened 2012 in Annapurna region Nepal. Easy to moderate the trail offers the trekkers, majestic views of Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhauligiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft) Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Machhapuchhare – Fishtail (6,994 m/22,946 ft), Hiuchuli (6,443 m21,138 ft), Baraha Shikhar (7,647 m/25,089 ft), Gangapurna (7,575 m/24,852 ft) and Mardi Himal (5,553 m/18,219 ft), etc. Further scenic terraced landscape and rhododendron forest, breathtaking Sunrise and Sunset View from the High Camp make spellbound to all.

Pokhara is the gateway of Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp, which is adorable, scenic, and the second biggest city in Nepal. After an hour's drive to Kande from Pokhara, you start your trek to Pitam Deurali (2,100 m/6,890 ft), via charming, views point villages Australian camp, and Pothana. The trail from Kande to Forest Camp, Low Camp, and Badal Dada passes through a rhododendron forest, and from Badal Dada to High Camp (3,580 m/11,745 ft) passes through meadow land providing a glimpse of snow-capped mountains.

After a 3–4-hour ascent from High Camp, you will reach Mardi Himal Base Camp, a remote area with no settlements but with tea houses at the viewpoint halfway up. On the final day, descend from High Camp to Siding Village, where you can catch a jeep back to Pokhara.

Enjoy your trip with complete internet service, amidst the mountains, surrounded by tranquility and breathtaking panoramic views.

 

What to expect during the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek?

 

There are no bus roads on the way to the trekking trail, thus making this route incredibly quiet and enchanting. In spring, blooming rhododendron flowers, pristine settlements, gushing glaciers, and panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, Fishtail, Mardi, Himchuli, Gangapurna, and many more mountains are the main attractions of the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek.

This short and charming trail offers comfortable mountain lodges with internet services, though there are no lodges at Base Camp. Additionally, there is a lower risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS).

 

Is this trek right for you?

 

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is a short and sweet trail in the Annapurna region that can be completed within 5 days. It offers breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains and diverse flora and fauna. This is an easy-to-moderate trek and is suitable for solo trekkers as well as large groups of trekkers too.

At the end of the Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers who are physically fit and have enough time can include the Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani Poonhill trek in their itinerary as well.

 

Perks of doing the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek with us

 

"One team, one dream" is our slogan. We have expert trekking teams that provide full support, including carrying your belongings and arranging accommodation, food, and drinks. We can also create a flexible itinerary on the spot if needed. Safety in the mountains is paramount, so we make your safety and achieving your goals our top priority.

We strive to provide our guests with the best market offerings and deliver top-notch services, and anticipate that our guests will receive rewards beyond their initial expectations.

Itinerary

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Accommodation: Hotel

Meals: Welcome dinner

Our representatives will pick you up from the airport and drop you at the hotel in Thamel. You can rest for some time and later meet us for the trek briefing. After that, we will proceed with packing and end the day with a delicious welcome dinner.

    Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles

    Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft

    Duration: 6-7 hours

    Accommodation: Hotel

    Meals: Breakfast and lunch

    From Kathmandu, you will drive to Pokhara. It is the second biggest city in Nepal and very much loved by tourists. The ride will be comfortable and scenic. Upon reaching Pokhara, our team will drop you at the hotel. Spend the remaining day resting and enjoying the serenity of the Phewa Lake.

      Trek distance: 6 km/3.7 miles

      Drive: An hour

      Duration: 4/5 hours trek

      Altitude: 2100 m/5,890 ft

      Accommodation: Lodge

      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      Today marks the first day of your trek. Starting from Pokhara, you'll drive to Kande, taking in the scenic countryside and mountain views along the way. The trail from Kande winds through rhododendron forests and involves a one-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Australian Camp. This camp is one of the best viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas of the South Annapurna range, Himchuli, Fishtail, Dhampus Peak, and more. After another hour, you'll reach Pothana village, it is another excellent viewpoint. From there, it's a gradual ascent and flat walk through the rhododendron forest to Pitam Deurali, which you will reach in about two hours.

        Trek distance: 11 km/6 miles

        Duration: 6/7 hours

        Altitude: 2,530 m/8,301 ft

        Accommodation: Lodge

        Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

        The captivating trek begins in dense rhododendron forests and a variety of flowering plants, continuing until you reach the Forest Camp. The trail gradually ascends and remains cool due to the forest cover, offering occasional views of the mountains. The Forest Camp is a truly wonderful spot nestled within the lush greenery.

          Trek distance: 8 km/5 miles

          Duration: 6-7 hours

          Altitude: 3,580 m/11,745 ft

          Accommodation: Lodge

          Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

          The trail goes through the rhododendrons and oak forests, with several camps along the way to High Camp. These include Rest Camp, Low Camp, Middle Camp, and Badal Dada. Each camp offers stunning views of the snowcapped mountains.

            Trek distance: 10 km/6.2 miles

            Duration: 5- 6 hours

            Altitude: 4200 m/13,780 ft or 4500 m/14,764 ft

            Accommodation: Lodge

            Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

            Today is an even more exciting day as you ascend to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. The Base Camp offers panoramic views of majestic peaks like Fishtail, Mardi Himal, South Annapurna, Himchuli, Annapurna I, Gangapurna, and many more, along with spectacular sunrise views. Along the way, numerous viewpoints provide stunning vistas, which are the main attractions of the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. After reaching the Base Camp and enjoying the scenery, you will return to High Camp.

              Trek distance: 13 km/8.1 miles

              Drive: 64 km/40 miles

              Duration: 5-6 hours trek, 2 hours’ drive

              Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ft

              Accommodation: Hotel

              Meals: Breakfast and lunch

              After enjoying your last delicious breakfast in the mountains, you will descend to Siding. Retrace your steps to Low Camp, then follow the trail through dense forests and paved stone paths to the enchanting village of Siding. From there, a jeep will take you back to Pokhara.

                Drive distance: 205 km/127 miles

                Duration: 6/7 hours

                Accommodation: Hotel

                Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and farewell dinner

                You will travel back to Kathmandu. The drive will be comfortable and scenic, like last time. The guide will drop you at the hotel. Rest and later explore the tourist areas. Buy souvenirs. We will meet in the late evening during the farewell dinner.

                  Meals: Breakfast only

                  You will fly back to your home today. Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule.

                    Cost Details
                    Includes
                    • All airport pick-up and drop-off services are complimentary.
                    • A complimentary welcome dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant.
                    • The two nights stay in Kathmandu, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                    • The two nights stay in Pokhara, with breakfast (twin sharing).
                    • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Pokhara to Kathmandu, Pokhara to Kande, and Sidding to Pokhara.
                    • All necessary trekking permits, like the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, the TIMS Card, etc.
                    • During the mountain season, three meals per day are consumed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
                    • All accommodations during the mountain.
                    • Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, when and if available.
                    • Complimentary duffel bag or agency T-shirt (for your trekking stuff, if needed).
                    • Government-approved, first-aid trained (with a medical kit), an English-speaking professional local guide and each of the two guests, 1 porter
                    • First-aid kit.
                    • Staff insurance, a well-paid salary, meals, accommodations, equipment, transportation, etc.
                    • If necessary, rescue arrangements will be made.
                    • Certificate of achievement, if needed.
                    • Agency service charge and government tax, or VAT.
                    Excludes
                    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee.
                    • Lunch and dinner in the city, or Kathmandu and Pokhara.
                    • Personal insurance, trekking gear, personal expenses, items lost or stolen, and so on.
                    • Temple and monastery entrance fees.
                    • Personal guide and porter.
                    • Sightseeing costs (temples, monasteries entrance fees, etc.)
                    • All drinks, chocolate bars, desserts, laundry, hot showers, battery charges, wifi, etc.
                    • Tipping to staff.
                    • Extra nights on the mountain and city, which are not maintained.

                    Useful Information

                    Difficulty

                     

                    Trek distance: During the Mardi Himal Base camp trek, you will approximately cover 48 kilometers/30 miles. Each day, you will trek for 7 to 11 km/4.3 to 6.8 miles.
                    Difficulty level: The Mardi Himal Base camp is an easy to moderate trek. The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail offers stunning mountain views and a walk-through of beautiful Rhododendron forests. Unlike some more strenuous treks that feature challenging uphill and downhill sections, this trek involves a gradual ascent to the base camp, which makes it accessible and enjoyable for trekkers of all skill levels.
                    Altitude sickness: There is a low risk of altitude sickness on this trek because you will spend just one night at a high-altitude camp (High Camp 3,580 meters). However, you still need to be cautious and take necessary precautions. Keep yourself hydrated, avoid rushing, and listen to your body. It's essential to eat enough food, drink plenty of fluids, and wear proper clothing. If you feel any discomfort or symptoms like headache, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or nausea, inform your guide immediately.

                    Previous trekking experience: You do not need previous trekking experience for the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek, but having experience with different trails can be beneficial.
                    Trek preparation: Research the trekking region, facilities, trail conditions, and altitude before starting your trek. 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 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 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 Mardi Himal Base Camp in winter with adequate preparation.

                    The Mardi Himal Base Camp is at a relatively moderate elevation and does not pose a high risk, making it possible for 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 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.

                    FAQs

                    • The Mardi Himal Base Camp is an easy/moderate venture. Trekkers can undertake the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek year-round, as it is suitable for all 12 months of the year. It is suitable for trekkers who are fit and can walk at least 6 hours a day. The trekking route is not difficult, but the trekkers have to be fit.

                    • The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is not a particularly difficult trail, so trekkers in good health and condition for walking can complete it. Having training in hiking or previous hiking experience is the most beneficial.

                    • The best time to trek in the Mardi Himal trai is during the spring season from March to May and the autumn season from September to November. These months offer the best trail conditions, higher chances of clear views, and the most favorable weather for trekking.

                    • The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is the best package to explore the beauty of one part of the Annapurna region. It offers short treks for those who don't have many days for trekking. For those with extra days, the trek can be extended to include the Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani Poonhill trek.

                    • The Mardi Himal Base Camp is located in the Annapurna region at an elevation of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). The route to Mardi Himal runs alongside the Annapurna Base Camp trek. It is a relatively short trek from the city and offers stunning views of the majestic Mount Fishtail and the Annapurna range.

                    • You can undertake the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek solo or as part of a large group. While hiring a guide and porter is not mandatory, having them can enhance your safety and ensure someone is responsible for your well-being.

                    • From Mardi Himal Base Camp, you can see only the western side of the mountains, such as Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. The Everest range on the eastern side, along with other mountains like Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and many more, are not visible from the Mardi Himal Base Camp, Annapurna region, or Manaslu region.

                    • The majority of the trail is connected to transportation roads, causing dusty conditions. Nevertheless, the Mardi Himal Base Camp is unique in that it is not accessible via any transportation road, which is why it is highly favored by trekkers.

                    • There are no lodges at Mardi Himal Base Camp, unlike Annapurna Base Camp. You'll stay at High Camp, which is the last stop. The following day, you will ascend to Mardi Himal Base Camp and then return to High Camp.

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