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The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the shortest and most accessible trekking routes in the eastern Annapurna range. considering that this path is new, only a small number of people visit there each year, making it a great place for individuals seeking privacy and tranquillity. Despite its lesser-known reputation, the Mardi Himal Trek is quickly gaining popularity for its breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
The tour takes you through a range of settings, from lush forests filled with rhododendrons, oaks, junipers, and pines to steep mountain terrains and diverse low-base camps. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of the famous Annapurna Himalayas. While some sections of the trail may be steep and slippery, adding an element of adventure, the overall journey is relatively easy.
One of the most notable aspects of the Mardi Himal trekking is its status as the "sunrise and sunset view trek." As you climb to the top of a hill, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. En route, you'll pass through quaint towns, providing you with a rare opportunity to interact with the inhabitants and learn about their customs, culture, and way of life. The location is covered with lush greenery, and the journey offers possibilities to see a variety of fauna and unique bird species.
Furthermore, the trek offers panoramic vistas that include the towering Annapurna I (8,091 m), the majestic Annapurna South (7,219 m), the imposing Mardi Himal (5,587 m), the distinctive Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), and the iconic Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). This combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and remarkable mountain views makes the Mardi Himal Trek an unforgettable adventure for trekkers of all levels.
What to Expect on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Embark on a journey from the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the serene waters of Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal's adventure capital, as the initial phase of the Mardi Himal trekking itinerary.
After exploring the highlights of these cities, you'll delve into the wilderness of the Annapurnas. Although the Mardi Himal Trek might not be as renowned as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit, you'll soon realize that it offers its own unique and splendid adventure.
Each day of the trek involves hiking for approximately five to six hours, and your efforts will be met with breathtaking vistas of mountains like Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and the prominent Mardi Himal.
Reaching a maximum elevation of around 4,500 meters, this itinerary caters to trekkers seeking a captivating mountain experience without venturing into the higher altitudes synonymous with treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Affordability makes the Mardi Himal Trek an excellent choice for novice trekkers, providing an opportunity to immerse themselves in Nepal's majestic Himalayas for the first time.
Best Time of Year for the Mardi Himal Trek
Trekking seasons in Nepal are primarily influenced by the monsoon, and the Mardi Himal Trek is no exception. The monsoon period usually spans from June to August. Consequently, many trekkers opt for the spring months of February to May or the autumn months of September to November to undertake this journey.
During these seasons, you can expect a harmonious blend of comfortable temperatures and unobstructed mountain vistas. However, the Mardi Himal region is open for trekking throughout the year, presenting diverse experiences. The winter months offer snow-covered trails that evoke a sense of mystery, while summer months shroud the hillsides in mist, creating an equally enchanting ambiance.
Where does the Mardi Himal Trek start and end?
The Mardi Himal Trek begins at Kande, around a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. The trail starts with a moderate ascent, becoming steeper near Australian Camp (2060 m, about 2 hours away), then gradually descending to Pothana (1950 m) before rising again towards Deurali (2100 m). From Deurali, a sign indicating "Forest Camp" points to a right turn. The path goes through a rainforest, initially going up and then down along a ridge.
The route becomes steeper as you proceed, reaching a midpoint before gradually ascending again towards Forest Camp (2600 m). After leaving Forest Camp, the trail is steep initially, but it becomes less steep closer to the top.
About an hour's hike from there, the trail exits the jungle and opens up to a ridge with stunning views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South. The path departs from Low Camp and leads to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m). Going up the ridge to the Base Camp takes another 4 to 5 hours, and the return to High Camp takes around 4 hours. There's a viewpoint midway with great views. After this, the trail goes through Low Camp to Siding, and from there, a car ride takes you back to Pokhara.
Mardi Himal Trek difficulty
Regarding the difficulty level of the Mardi Himal Trek, it is considered to be a relatively short and manageable trek within the Annapurna region. This implies that individuals with good overall health and a reasonable level of fitness can complete the journey. However, it's important to note that the daily routine involves approximately 5 to 6 hours of both ascent and descent, demanding a fair amount of stamina. The trail itself varies, with some sections being narrow and slippery, and during winter, certain areas can be covered in snow. Therefore, it's advisable to have trekking poles and crampons to navigate these conditions. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the teahouse at Mardi Himal Base Camp remains closed during the winter months, making accommodation scarcer during the off-season.
Food, and Accommodation during Mardi Himal Trek
During the Mardi Himal Trek, your accommodations will primarily consist of 2 or 3-star hotels in both Kathmandu and Pokhara and lodges or tea houses along the trekking route. In Kathmandu, you will be provided with breakfast and also enjoy a welcome and farewell dinner. As for the Mardi Himal Trek itself, the food offerings will be based on the menu available at the lodges and tea houses.
As this is a newly established trekking route in Nepal, it tends to be less crowded, resulting in varying levels of lodge and teahouse development along the trail. While the construction and facilities might not be as advanced as in more established routes, you will still find lodges that offer local Nepali cuisine and comfortable accommodations. Although the lodges may vary in terms of quality, they generally provide a satisfying stay.
Furthermore, access to drinking water is readily available throughout the trek. It's recommended that you bring a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets to ensure the quality of the water you consume. This approach will allow you to enjoy the convenience of refilling your bottle while also taking precautions to ensure the safety of the water you're drinking.
