Mardi Himal Trek

8 days
T2 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
500 - 1000 m ascent per day

> Close-up views of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchare
> A natural paradise with old-grown forests and elusive wildlife
> Gurung and Magar mountain culture

The Mardi Himal Trek is a newly opened trekking trail, wedged between the more famous Annapurna Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks. The route is not frequently visited by trekkers and offers unspoiled beauty making it one of the best natural and cultural treks in the Annapurna region.

The trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp is a relatively short, easy hike on the heavily forested foothills of the Annapurna Massif. The mountain Mardi Himal itself is located towards the east of the Modi Khola across the valley from Hiunchuli. The route follows a lesser-known trail away from the famous, busy Annapurna hikes, traverses thick rhododendron forests, unspoiled terrain up and takes you to an elevation of 4500 meters. You'll be hiking on the ridge that comes down from the Machhapuchare Peak (6993m) also known as Fish Tail Mountain. The region is known for its rich bio-diversity and wildlife: Danphe (pheasant), Himalayan thar, several species of deer, snow leopard are some of the animals you may spot during this trek.

Itinerary

Day
1

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

After an early breakfast at your hotel we drive along the Trisuli and Mashyangdi River to reach Pokhara. We will see the beautiful river view and the views of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu as well during the driving. Pokhara itself is a traveller’s paradise full of natural wonders as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, temples of Buddhist and Hindus along with mountains. After a 7 hour drive we will arrive in Pokhara and stay overnight at a hotel.

Pokhara

Info
Pokhara
Day
2

Drive to Phedi and trek to Pothana

Duration: 04:00 h
Distance: 7.16 km
Ascent: 1000 m
Descent: 180 m
Early in the morning, we will drive for one hour to reach Phedi and the start our Mardi Himal trek. We will climb the steps from Phedi. The trail ascends all the way to Pothana through rhododendron and pine forests till we reach the Dhampus, a Gurung village known for the magnificent views of Annapurna ranges, including Lamjung Himal and Manaslu. We will continue our ascent until we reach the small village of Pothana, surrounded by forests and exhibiting marvelous mountain views. We will also get TIMS/ACAP card at the check point in Pothana. Overnight in Pothana.

Pothana

Info
Pothana
Day
3

Trek from Pothana to Forest Camp

Distance: 10 km
Ascent: 680 m
Descent: 240 m
After a hearty breakfast, we will start our trek with a steep uphill climb through thick forest along beautiful view points of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The forest is home elusive wildlife and we may catch glimpse of some of the rare birds and animals along the way. After walking for around five hours, we will reach the forest camp where we will set up camp for the night.

Forest Camp

Info
Forest Camp
See entire itinerary

Included

  • Transfers

    All necessary transfers (bus, taxi, flights, etc.) as described in the programme are included.

  • Staying in Lodge or Guest House during the trek

    During the trek, we stay in lodges or teahouses. These are simple in nature, but fully equipped. Do not expect too much luxury.

  • English speaking guide and a porter

    One porter per two trekkers. This way you don’t have to carry your complete equipment yourself. The guide speaks English.

  • Salary, food, insurance, and accommodation for guide and porter

    The total amount covers not only your own basics, but also those of your guide and porter. No unpleasant surprises.

  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

    Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared during the trek. The meals are basic, but will give you enough energy for your appetite. Fruit is also available after each meal.

  • Coffee and Tea

    Coffee and tea are also organized by the trekking company. Every morning fresh coffee and tea are made. There are scheduled breaks to enjoy this.

  • Permit and TIMS

    The total amount includes costs for the permits needed for the Mardi Himal Trek. This also applies to the TIMS Card, to the Trekkers Information Management System.

  • Down Jacket and Sleeping Bags

    In order to pull in the Himalayas as prepared as possible, it is important to bring a good down jacket and sleeping bag. These are provided by your trekking company.

  • Cap, T-Shirt & Roadmap

    We also have a cap, t-shirt, and a roadmap for you. Not only are they ideal for trekking, but they are also beautiful souvenirs.

  • Assistant Guide for a Group of over 6 People

    If your group is larger than 6 people, we will take an extra assistant guide with you to support you.

  • Altitude Sickness & First Aid Kit

    The guides carry an altitude sickness kit to monitor your pulse rate, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice a day (very useful for monitoring the symptoms of altitude sickness (AMS) at altitude).

  • Bus to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu

    The bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back is included in the total price of this trekking.

  • Hotel stay in Pokhara

    During your stay in Pokhara, you will stay in a hotel.

Excluded

  • Visa for Nepal

    Your trekking company will not take responsibility for the travel visa for Nepal. This should be organized by yourself. Contact your local Nepalese embassy for the latest visa information.

  • Flights to and from Nepal

    The total amount is also exclusive of flights to and from Nepal. To get an idea of which airlines are flying on Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), have a look at the website.

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast

    Before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation.

  • Personal expenses

    All personal expenses such as drinks at the bar, washing and other similar expenses are for your own account.

  • Travel Insurance Including Repatriation

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers adventures at a high altitude. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before you travel to Nepal.

  • Tipping

    Tips for guides and porters are exclusive. 10% of the total amount is an excellent target price, but the final amount is up to you.

  • Desserts, Hot Shower, Hot Water, Mineral Water and Wi-Fi

    Certain luxuries such as desserts, a hot shower, hot running water, bottles of mineral water and Wi-Fi should be missed during a typical trek in the Himalayas. The water we encounter along the way is drinkable and is heated or boiled by us.

FAQ

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Jan Bakker
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