Mardi Himal lies to the east of the popular Annapurna Base Camp. Recently it has gained popularity among trekkers who seek moderate levels of trekking adventure as well as seasonal beauty of the place. Mt. Fishtail seems omnipresent from the many turns and bends of this route which has made this hidden trek more popular. Starting out, the trail goes through small ups and downs of the hills and later, it enters a thick forest. And suddenly, like a dramatized play, the trail emerges out of the forest – into a high-altitude rugged grassland. The first views of Mt. Fishtail from there is highly impressive and is one the most photographed scenes on the trail.
Trekking to Mardi Himal essentially means you are trekking to Mardi Himal High Camp at around 3,700 meters. However, if you plan beforehand with Orbit Alpine Adventure, you can go up to the actual Mardi Himal Base Camp at around 4,250 meters. The trek from High Camp to Base Camp is challenging because of the terrain but the views are beautiful beyond description. From there, the views of the entire Annapurna Range await you in solitude, creating a wonderful memory of a lifetime.
The trip takes you through some breathtaking valleys and beautiful landscapes of Nepal. Starting from hills and forests, the trek reaches an alpine environment with rocks and mountains. To traverse the road, you will need an experienced guide, as the trail can get slippery and tricky sometimes. The guesthouses and lodges are equipped with basic facilities, so expect no luxury in the upper regions of the trekking route. However, you may prefer to camp outdoors during the night – please inform us while booking.
Trek to Mardi Himal can be done from mid-autumn to late winter; but we recommend you to consult beforehand. If you wish to go up to the Base Camp as too much snowfall can seriously damage the trail in the winter. Trek to Mardi Himal begins and ends in the lake town of Pokhara. The program will take about 10 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu; but it can be extended depending upon choices of side trips. Although you do not climb any mountains or high passes, you need physical fitness, little stamina and regular walking habit.
The weather is mostly cold in the region, so pack your bags accordingly. Trek to Mardi Himal in the Annapurna region will be a memorable trip in Nepal. Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is one of the most beautiful shortest off the beaten path journey. It takes you towards the newly opened tourist destination of Nepal where the rhododendron flowers wrap the entire forests in spring. Ethnic cultural villages resided by Gurung, Magar, Chhetri, Brahmin and other groups are the other important asset of this trek.
FAQs:
1. How far is Mardi Himal Trek?
Mardi Himal trek is 161 kilometers far from Kathmandu and about 31 kilometers from Pokhara. Mardi Himal Base Camp trek itinerary ranges from 5 days to 13 days. The itinerary depends upon the trekking hours per day, Kathmandu city tour and Pokhara Sightseeing tour.
2. Why should I do Mardi Himal trek?
There are many reasons for you to do Mardi Himal trek, a popular trekking in Nepal. It is one of the shortest off the beaten path trekking regions of Nepal located nearby Annapurna Base Camp trek. You can enjoy the close view of Mt. Machhapuchhre just a few yards away from the Base Camp of Mardi Himal. Lush rhododendron forests, ethnic villages and crystal panoramic view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges are the rewards of this trek. If you want to enjoy the Himalayan vistas from low altitude walking through comparatively comfortable path, you should do this trek.
3. Can a solo/independent trekker do this trek?
Of course, a solo or independent trekker also can do this trek as there is not any restricted area in this Himalayan journey. However, we highly recommend you to hire a professional trekking guide so that you won’t have any trouble during the trip. You may not be able all the times to follow the right trekking route to Mardi Himal and get lost in the unknown section. You don’t have to worry about anything unwanted and unexpected provided that you are with an expert trekking guide. The professional guide has all the information about the trail, the rest houses and hygienic food items to keep you healthy throughout the journey.
4. Is there any risk of altitude sickness during this trek?
Altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is an obvious phenomenon while trekking in the Himalayas above 3,000m. However, the trekking guide you hire from Orbit Alpine Adventure knows all about the precaution and remedy for altitude sickness. He will help you to prevent such health hazards by instructing you to measure the route slowly and gradually. You should drink enough water and hygienic food items to avoid such mishaps during the trip. Similarly, you can pack Diamox Oral to prevent or cure such high altitude health hazards. Last but not the least, there is very low chance for altitude sickness due to acclimatization and very short hours to ascend. As soon as you feel difficulty, don’t hesitate to talk with the guide who is assisting you to complete this trekking in Nepal.
5. What type of accommodation is available for the trekkers to Mardi Himal trek?
Basically, Mardi Himal trek is completely a teahouse trekking throughout the trip. There are many hotels and lodges to accommodate you during the voyage and they serve hygienic and organic cuisines. You may not find star hotels having very luxurious facilities en route Mardi Himal Base Camp, but enjoy their facilities for sure. Nonetheless, if you can afford and are ready to experience camping trekking to Mardi Himal, Orbit Alpine Adventure is ready for this, too!
