Mardi Himal Short Trek

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the pristine beauty of the Mardi Himal Short Trek from Pokhara. Over the course of 5 days, this adventure offers a perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural immersion.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 5 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Moderate
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 3580 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel and Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Pokhara

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Nepal with the Mardi Himal Short Trek, a perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural immersion. This trek takes you through lush forests adorned with rhododendrons and oaks, offering stunning vistas of the majestic Annapurna range, including the iconic Machapuchare peak. Along the way, you’ll stay in cozy teahouses, providing a glimpse into the warm hospitality of the local Gurung and Magar communities. With altitudes reaching up to 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp, this trek is ideal for those seeking moderate challenges and unforgettable views. Accessible from Pokhara, this 5-7 day adventure promises an off-the-beaten-path experience that captures the heart of Nepal’s natural and cultural wonders.

Discover the Mardi Himal Short Trek, where every step leads to new heights of awe-inspiring landscapes and authentic encounters. Whether you’re a beginner trekker or a seasoned adventurer, this trek offers a manageable journey into Nepal’s wilderness. Traverse forested trails ablaze with rhododendron blooms and ancient oaks, culminating in panoramic views of the Annapurna mountains and Machapuchare’s distinctive peak. Embrace the local charm as you rest in traditional teahouses and connect with Gurung and Magar villages along the route. Perfect for those short on time yet eager for adventure, this trek from Pokhara unveils the best of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, promising an experience that lingers long after the journey ends.

Mardi Himal Short Trek Highlights 

  • Enjoy stunning vistas of the Annapurna range, including the Machhapucchhre (Fishtail) peak. 
  • Immerse yourself in the local Gurung and Magar communities and their traditional way of life.
  • Unique Flora and fauna on the trekking trail.
  • Experience the beauty of the trek with stunning panoramic views
  • Enjoy an adventurous journey with challenging yet rewarding terrain.

Best time for Mardi Himal Short Trek 

The best time to trek the Mardi Himal 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, which includes the Mardi Himal Short Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°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 I, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, the Mardi Himal Short trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Mardi Himal Short 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: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Mardi Himal Short Trek trail is more crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Mardi Himal Short Trek, 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. 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 Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2100 m
  • Meal

We will start our journey on the Mardi Himal Trek early in the morning from Pokhara. After a one-and-a-half-hour drive, we will arrive at Kande, the starting point of our adventure. We will then put on our hiking boots and embark on a scenic excursion towards Deulari from Kande. The journey will pass through quaint villages and lush hillsides, with planned stops along the way to admire the breathtaking scenery and experience local life. By the end of 5 to 6 hours of trekking, we will reach Deurali where we will spend the night in a teahouse.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 2550 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Tomorrow, we will wake up to the fresh mountain air and eat a healthy meal before embarking on tomorrow’s journey to Forest Camp. The trail will take us through the Himalayas, passing through beautiful forests covered with rhododendron flowers and towering trees. As we ascend, the views will get more breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks in the distance. After a full day of trekking, which will normally take 6 to 7 hours, we will arrive at Forest Camp, tucked in the tranquil woods.

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

Today, after breakfast, we will continue our hiking journey by bidding farewell to Forest Camp and heading towards High Camp. The trail gradually climbs, providing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Travel through picturesque villages, where friendly inhabitants may meet you with warm smiles and warmth. Take your time admiring the beauty of your surroundings and capturing unforgettable moments amidst nature’s splendor. After about 8 to 9 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at High Camp, where you’ll spend the night in a charming teahouse, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains beneath a starry sky.

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

Today we will start a trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp, where we’ll see the stunning dawn over the Annapurna range on an incredible adventure. With each step we take, we will be treated to new natural marvels along the base camp trail, which offers unmatched vistas of the surrounding peaks. We will take some time to take pictures and videos and then make our way back to High Camp. After having breakfast at High Camp, we will descend down to Low Camp in the afternoon, where we will spend the night.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 3050 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Our short trek to Mardi is almost coming to an end. After having breakfast at Low Camp, we will hike towards Siding, which is a traditional village of the Gurung people. It is mostly a downhill hike to Siding. From here, we will drive back to Pokhara, and overnight we will stay at a comfortable hotel.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Pokhara.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Pokhara is not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Pokhara outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

Yes, the Mardi Himal Short Trek is regarded as appropriate for beginners. The track has a moderate level of difficulty, with steady ascents and clearly designated trails. However, basic physical fitness is required to enjoy the walk comfortably.

The best time to trek to Mardi Himal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally clear, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular. These months offer stable weather conditions and favorable temperatures for trekking.

Accommodation along the Mardi Himal Short Trek route mainly consists of teahouses. These establishments provide basic facilities such as shared rooms with beds or dormitory style accommodation.Some teahouses may also offer attached bathrooms, while others have shared toilet facilities.

Trekkers need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area permit (ACAP) and the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card for the Mardi Himal Sort Trek. These permits can be obtained in Pokhara either through authorized agencies or directly from the Nepal Tourism Board office.

While the maximum altitude reached on the Mardi Himal Short Trek is relatively low compared to other treks in the region, altitude sickness can still be a concern for some individuals. It’s essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body’s signals. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

ATM facilities are limited along the Mardi Himal Short Trek route, and it’s recommended to carry enough Nepali Rupees (NPR) in cash for your expenses during the trek. Pokhara is the best place to withdraw money and stock up on supplies before starting the trek.

While travel insurance is not mandatory for trekking in Nepal, it's highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and unforeseen expenses. Trekking involves inherent risks, and having travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of emergencies or mishaps.