Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Adventure

Lets enjoy Mardi Himal Trek with Kalpa Holidays

Good To Know

  • Duration 10 Days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Medium Hard
  • Best Season Sep-Dec/ Feb-Apr
  • Max. Altitude 4500 M.
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House Lodge
  • Meal Breakfast and Lunch & Dinner During Trek
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu

In the Annapurna region of Nepal, there is a less-known but stunning trek: the Mardi Himal Base camp trek. Unlike the crowded paths of the Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill treks, this one offers a peaceful and pleasant experience for trekking enthusiasts. Starting from Kande or Phedi, the journey climbs through lush rhododendron forests, charming villages, and high-altitude meadows, ending at Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at 4,500 meters (14,764 ft). The route provides breathtaking views of some of the world’s most famous mountains, including Annapurna South (7,219 meters/23,684 feet), Hiunchuli (6,441 meters/21,132 feet), Machapuchare (Fishtail) (6,993 meters/22,943 feet), Annapurna III (7,555 meters/24,787 feet), and Annapurna IV (7,525 meters/24,688 feet).

 

As trekkers ascend, the scenery changes, offering a variety of experiences from dense forests to wide alpine terrains. The trek’s relative solitude allows for deeper cultural exchanges with local inhabitants, providing insights into traditional life in Nepali villages. The challenging climb to Mardi Himal Base Camp adds an element of adventure. The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is an excellent choice for travel enthusiasts seeking a unique and rewarding experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking mountainous locations. This journey features stunning views, peaceful paths, and rich cultural experiences.

On the way to High camp during Mardi Himal Base camp Trek

Best time for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

The best time to trek the Mardi Himal Base Camp is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Annapurna region, including the Mardi Himal trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: Although this is a popular trekking season, the Mardi Himal trail remains less crowded than other well-known treks in the Annapurna region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Although autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Mardi Himal trail is still less crowded compared to other popular treks.

Off-Season Considerations for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

While spring and autumn are the best times to trek Mardi Himal, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Mardi Himal Base Camp. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 Mtrs
  • Meal

At the time of your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative will be waiting for you and will then transfer you to your hotel. For the remainder of the day, you are free to either recover after your journey or go sightseeing in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2060 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast and Dinner

Immediately following breakfast, you embark on a journey from Kathmandu to Kande, a quaint town located close to Pokhara. Around six to seven hours is the duration of the drive, you will reach Pokhara then from there you will be Transported to Kande, the starting point of the trek. The journey starts with a moderate ascent from Kande to Australian Camp, which is a well-known destination that offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South (7,219 m) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m). The night is spent in a teahouse in Australian Camp, where you are staying.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2520 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Wake up in the morning and watch the beautiful sunrise from Australian Camp and have the breakfast and prepare for the onward trek. The trek from Australian Camp to Forest Camp is a slow incline through thick woodlands that continues the journey. When compared to other popular hiking routes, this part contains a less number of people, which results in a more tranquil and calm experience. Forest Camp, often referred to as Kokar, is the destination that you reach after traveling through Pothana and Deurali. You will be able to take pleasure in a tranquil evening here, surrounded by verdant vegetation.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2970 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

It is through other rhododendron forests that you ascend after leaving Forest Camp. When you get higher in elevation, the vegetation begins to alter, which makes for a very different kind of hiking experience. Machapuchare, which is 6,993 meters in elevation, becomes increasingly visible as you approach Low Camp, which results in the views becoming more broad.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3580 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Some of the most breathtaking vistas of the entire tour may be found on today’s hike. Above the treeline, where the scenery opens up and provides panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare, the trail leads you to the elevation where the landscape opens up. After you cross the forest of Rhodondren Flowers, there comes the Badal Dada (Cloudy Hills) from where slow breeze of mountains brings up clows up clouds, it feels like you are walking in the clouds, above the clouds and with the clouds.  The last ascent to High Camp might be challenging, but the breathtaking views certainly make the effort worthwhile. From High Camp, you enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains and valleys that are in the surrounding area.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4500 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

The day spent hiking to Mardi Himal Base Camp is one that is not only difficult but also rewarding. Despite the fact that the trail is steep in several areas and requires cautious navigation, the views are nothing short of breathtaking. There are a number of peaks in the Annapurna range that can be seen from Base Camp, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. Following the completion of your sightseeing, you make your way back to High Camp for the night.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 1700 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

As you make your journey to Siding Village from High Camp, you will go through thick forests and rural communities on your descent. A new point of view of the region is provided by this part, which features typical Nepali dwellings and farms. You will have the opportunity to witness genuine Nepali culture in Siding, which is a village that is less crowded with tourists.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 800 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast and Lunch

On the final day of your walk, you will travel through more rural landscapes as you make your way toward Lumre. Once you are there, a car will be waiting for you to transport you back to Pokhara. The journey to Pokhara is a beautiful one, providing more views of the hills and valleys that are located in the surrounding area.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1200 Mtrs
  • Meal Breakfast

After the morning breakfast, you will be transferred to the tourist bus park from where the luxury bus will begin its journey to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, you will check inn into the hotel and after some refreshments you can enjoy bustling Thamel market and its nightlife.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

Following breakfast, you will be transported to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, bringing an end to your journey through the Mardi Himal Base Camp and its experiences.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including airport transfers, drive from Kathmandu to Kande, and drive from Lumre to Pokhara.
  • Accommodation: Lodging during the trek in teahouses and hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek, typically Nepali and international dishes. Some packages might also include breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Guide and Porters: Professional trekking guide and porters to carry your luggage. This also includes their salaries, insurance, and other related costs.
  • Permits: All necessary permits for the trek, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies provided by the guide for safety during the trek.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of flights to and from Nepal is typically not included.
  • Visa Fees: The cost of a Nepalese visa is not included and must be obtained at your own expense.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is usually required but not included.
  • Additional Accommodation: Any extra nights in Kathmandu or Pokhara beyond the standard itinerary.
  • Personal Expenses: Items such as snacks, drinks, personal equipment, laundry, tips, and other personal expenses.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, porters, and other trekking staff are not included but are customary.

Trip Map

Essential Info

Essential Accessories: Essential Accessories for Trekking with kalpa holidays Essential Information:

Altitude Sickness Information

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can occur when ascending to higher altitudes too rapidly.

Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

We prioritize your safety: our guides are trained to monitor symptoms, and our itineraries allow for proper acclimatization.

Fitness & Experience Required
  1. The Mardi Himal Trek is graded as moderate to strenuous.
  2. Good physical fitness is crucial. Regular cardiovascular exercises are recommended for optimal preparation.
  3. While prior trekking experience is beneficial, many trekkers with determination and fitness successfully complete the trek with us.
Visas & International Flights
  1. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, most nationalities can obtain a Nepalese visa.
  2. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel dates.
  3. Anyone from anywhere in the world can reach Nepal using various modes of transportation, including air and land. Waterways, although the last option is less common due to Nepal being a landlocked country.
  4. Visa and Immigration: Upon arrival at TIA, travelers are required to go through immigration procedures. Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Nepal. Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival. Also if you do not want any hassle in the airport then you can also apply before your arrival online from https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/online
  5. Customs: After clearing immigration, travelers proceed to the customs area. It’s important to declare any items that need to be declared and adhere to the customs regulations of Nepal.
  6. By Air: Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the main international airport in Nepal, in the near future two more international Airports; Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport will also be at your service. Make sure to inquire before your travel date. It serves as the primary gateway for travelers from around the world.

Here’s how reaching Nepal by air typically works:

  • Flights: Various international airlines operate flights to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) from major cities across the globe. These flights connect major hubs like Dubai, Doha, Delhi, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Istanbul, and more to Kathmandu. Travelers can book direct flights or connect through one of these hubs.
  • Our team can assist in arranging international flights to and from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.
Medical Information
  1. We strongly recommend a pre-trek health checkup with your doctor.
  2. Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions and medications you may be taking.
  3. Carry necessary prescriptions and medications during the trek.
  4. Safety standards in Nepal are not always equal to what you might be used to in your home country. Stomach issues that often bother travelers in this part of the world can cause dehydration. Rehydration treatment sachets may count as the most important part of your first aid kit when trekking or hiking through places like Nepal.
  5. It would also be a great idea to carry mosquito and insect repellents to safeguard against possible insect bites, rashes, or allergies. However, risks are minimal during winter, even in national parks and other areas with hot/humid climates. Still, being well-prepared is always the best option.
  6. The air quality in urban areas can be very poor due to carbon emissions. In suburbs or rural areas too, dusty roads can lead to poor air quality at times. Wearing a mask in such areas and while in local markets is a good way to safeguard from breathing difficulties and possible illness.

Should there be any necessity, our team is capable to get you the necessary medical attention, including first aid and further assistance. The areas we go through are well facilitated with adequate drug stores, pharmacies, and even private clinics and hospitals. General service hours are as follows:

Drug Stores and Pharmacies   : 09:00 hrs – 17:00 hrs

Government Health Clinics    : 09:00 hrs – 17:00 hrs

Private Health Clinics             : 09:00 hrs – 17:00 hrs

Major Private Health Clinics : 09:00 hrs – 17:00 hrs

Government Hospitals            : 24 hrs (including emergency services)

Private Hospitals                     : 24 hrs (including emergency and rescue services)

Travel Insurance
  1. Comprehensive travel insurance covering trekking at high altitudes is mandatory.
  2. Travel insurance is a crucial safeguard for travelers. It provides protection against unforeseen events like trip cancellations, delays or interruptions, medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, lost luggage, and more.
  3. It is essential to choose a policy that suits your needs. Understand coverage, and be aware of exclusions.
  4. Travel insurance can be purchased for single or multiple trips and should be an integral part of your travel planning for a worry-free journey.
  5. Our trekking insurance partners offer policies that include emergency evacuation and cover all potential trek-related risks.
Trekking Crews

The Himalayan Trek ensures that our guides are well-qualified and experienced. Guides typically undergo training that includes:

  1. First aid and wilderness medical training.
  2. Navigation and map reading.
  3. Altitude sickness recognition and management.
  4. Emergency response and evacuation procedures.
  5. Cultural sensitivity and local customs.

Our porters are well-trained and carry your main luggage, allowing you to hike comfortably.

Currency Exchange
  1. The local currency is Nepalese Rupees (NPR).
  2. Currency exchange services are widely available in Nepal, especially in major cities and tourist areas. You can exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange offices, and even some hotels.
  3. Exchange rates can vary, so it is recommended to shop around for the best rates before making a transaction.
  4. It is also important to note that using credit and debit cards is becoming more common, especially in urban areas.
Weather Condition
  1. Weather conditions vary based on altitude and time of year.
  2. Lower altitudes experience warm days and cold nights, while higher altitudes can be considerably colder.
  3. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in higher regions.
Food and Nutrition Care
  1. While trekking, we provide meals and care for your nutritional needs. The main local dish for lunch or dinner is Daal Bhat – rice and lentils served with various curries. Breakfasts can vary depending on trip routes and regions.
  2. As you ascend to higher altitudes, food prices may increase due to the challenges of transportation. Special meals to try on this trek include Gurung Bread – a deep-fried bread, and Rosti – a hearty potato cake. You can order Rosti with two eggs on top for a filling meal.
  3. We strongly encourage minimizing the use of plastic during the trek. This includes using boiled water and carrying a refillable water bottle instead of buying water in disposable plastic bottles.
Accommodation
  1. Nepal offers a wide range of accommodations to cater to the needs of various travelers. From budget options for backpackers to luxurious hotels for those seeking a splendor indulgence, Nepal has something to offer for everyone.
  2. Accommodation options range from basic to comfortable lodges and tea houses along the route. Rooms are typically twin-sharing with basic amenities.
  3. Given the limited availability, our team ensures advance bookings for your comfort.
  4. It is important to note that accommodation options and standards can vary significantly depending on the location and remoteness of the area. Before traveling to Nepal, it is recommended to research and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Vehicle
  1. Domestic flights from Kathmandu to airport nearest to your trekking route or region are the common mode of transport to start the trek.
  2. Local transportation might include occasional use of four-wheeler, local shuttle-busses, mules, yaks, etc. for shorter or easier transfers.
Communication Access
  1. Mobile network coverage is limited in remote areas along the trekking route.
  2. Wi-Fi and charging facilities are available at selected lodges for a nominal fee.
  3. Carry a portable charger or power bank to recharge devices.
  4. Charging facilities are offered at lodges for a fee to keep your devices powered.
Safety & Security
  1. Your safety is the top-most priority for us. We ensure that our trekking team is equipped with necessary gear, equipment, and comprehensive first-aid kits.
  2. Our experienced leaders and guides possess extensive knowledge and are trained in first-aid to handle any health emergencies that may arise. If a trekker falls ill due to altitude, they can decide whether to continue or descend, with their well-being as the primary concern.
  3. Always follow their guidance for safety protocols and route adjustments.
  4. Staying hydrated, well-rested and attentive, contributes to a secure trekking experience.
  5. In case of emergencies, we have access to rescue helicopters for evacuations.
Extra Personal Cash
  1. We recommend that all our clients carry personal spending money to cover visa fees, insurance, beverages, snacks, other incidental spending, and souvenirs.
Group or Single Trip
  1. Choose between group treks with set departure dates or opt for a private trip tailored to your preferences.
  2. Group treks provide the opportunity to bond with fellow trekkers and share experiences while private treks ensure that you get more time and ease that suit your requirements the best
Responsible Travel
  1. We emphasize responsible travel, respecting local culture, people, traditions, and the environment.
  2. Minimize waste, avoid single-use plastics, and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Trip Extensions
  1. Extend your adventure with cultural tours in Kathmandu or explore other trekking routes in Nepal.
  2. Take advantage of your free time with activities such as city sightseeing, jungle safaris, paragliding, white-water rafting, or others that are popular and exciting near your trek regions.
  3. Adding sub-destinations of interest is also an option.
Secure Payment Mode
  1. In Nepal, secure payment methods are essential for safe and reliable financial transactions, especially in the travel and trekking context. Travelers have various options for secure payments, including cash, credit and debit cards, mobile payment apps, swift bank transfers, online payment portals, and cash-on-delivery.
  2. Bank transfers are suitable for more extensive transactions, and online payment portals are offered by Kalpa Holidays. Mobile payment apps is available for online payments, and swift bank transfers can be used for international money transfers.
  3. Always exercise caution and use reputable businesses to avoid fraud and scams. Keep transaction records and receipts for security. Before traveling to Nepal, check with your bank to ensure your cards are suitable for international use and inform them of your travel plans to prevent card blocks.

Trips notes:

This trip is ideal for those who want to witness the beauty of the mountains and explore typical Nepalese villages, locals, and how they live a traditional life in the Himalayas.

This trek consists of the following categories of activities:

Nature Trails

This trek will take you through remote areas and nearby forests filled with trees, native flora, and even wildlife. Changes in topography, physical activity, height, temperature, and air quality can all be found on this type of trails. You will be able to become accustomed to all of these things on this particular trail at a steady and comfortable pace.

Village Trails

Village excursions are usually enjoyable since you may observe and learn about the way of life of the locals. Even though one of the reasons people travel is to experience other cultures, some of these differences may come as a surprise to many people given the drastic changes even in basic aspects like food, hygiene, socio-cultural aspects, and communal ethics and manners. The trail crosses through semi-rural and rural communities, enabling you to adjust to these variations tolerably.

Panoramic Trails

On various parts of the route, panoramic trails frequently include community paths and nature trails. Destinations or paths as such need to be situated atop hills or forests in order to provide the best viewpoint of the surrounding beauties and one that is panoramic. As a result, these pathways will lead you to higher locations with fewer people and more natural scenery. The likelihood of seeing nicer panoramas grows along with height, as does the difficulty. The air is constantly thinner and more difficult to reach higher altitudes. However, this trail allows you to feel these things gradually because the terrain is not as challenging and the endpoint, despite being higher up, is easily accessible.

Cultural and heritage trails

Nepal offers an infinite number of wonders to be amazed at within the limited confines of geographical boundaries. The Himalayas, glistening lakes, incredible biodiversity, and the great range of cultural practices make Nepal an ideal destination for all kinds of tourists. While the Himalayas are unquestionably the main attraction of vacations to Nepal, the beauty of the nation’s culture comes to a close second. Nepal is home to a surprising variety of ethnic groups, each of which has its own culture, language, customs, and social mores. Trekking along cultural and heritage trails is a means to explore the country’s cultural characteristics, which mix beautiful natural scenery with age-old customs.

 

FAQs

During the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, travelers will have the opportunity to hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp at their most favorable times. These times of the year are ideal for hiking since they provide clear skies, warm temperatures, and favorable weather conditions.

One may say that the Mardi Himal walk is a somewhat difficult trek. Although it does not require any technical climbing skills, it does include large elevation gains and also has some sections that are steep. It is recommended that you have a reasonable level of fitness.

For most people, the Mardi Himal journey takes anywhere from seven to ten days to complete, depending on the starting site, the itinerary, and the speed. Depending on their timetable, some hikers may opt for shorter or longer paths to complete their journey.

Both the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card are required for you to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area region. In either Pokhara or Kathmandu, you will be able to acquire these permits.

In the Mardi Himal hike, guests are provided with lodging in the form of tea houses or guesthouses. Simple rooms, communal dining areas, and shared restrooms are some of the minimum amenities that are provided by these accommodation options. In order to feel more comfortable and toasty, it is recommended that you bring a sleeping bag with you.

In order to ensure that you have everything you need for the hike, you should pack things like trekking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat and gloves, a backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and a headlamp before you go. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and trekking poles are some of the additional goods I brought along.

Although it is feasible to hike Mardi Himal on your own, it is strongly advised that you obtain the services of a guide or porter, particularly for reasons of safety and to improve the quality of your trip. Porters are able to carry your heavier luggage, while guides are able to provide useful insights into the local culture and geography.

A variety of meals, including traditional Nepalese dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), as well as various international dishes, are available at teahouses located along the route. If you want to avoid getting sick from drinking water, it is best to drink water that has been cleaned or boiled. You might want to carry a water filter or some purification tablets with you.

The Mardi Himal Base Camp is situated at an elevation of 4,500 meters, which is equivalent to 14,764 feet. The journey involves gradual acclimatization, despite the fact that it is going to be at a high altitude. On the other hand, you should be aware of the dangers of altitude sickness and familiar with its signs.

Absolutely, it is strongly suggested that you purchase all-inclusive travel insurance for the journey. In the event of an accident or illness, you should be sure that your insurance policy covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation situations.