Mardi Himal Trek

Mt. Fishtail from Mardi View Point
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek
Duration11 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude3,540 m
Group Size1-50
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleMardi Trek
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

Highlights of the Trek

  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and get to know Nepali art and architecture
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Phedi
  • Hike through lush forests of oak, maple, juniper, pine, and rhododendron
  • Pass by remote traditional villages, where you can see the daily lifestyle of the locals
  • Less-crowded trails and unspoiled views
  • Enjoy the hint of off-beat trekking
  • Witness gorgeous sunrise and panoramic view from Upper Viewpoint
  • Perfect hike for beginner or family
  • Get to see breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan mountains throughout the hike.

Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu is our favorite hike to introduce beginner trekkers to trekking in the Himalayas. As the Mardi Himal Trek route has a constant pace and non-technical/steep climbing sections, people of any age can do this hike. Another reason for its beginner-friendly path is the Mardi Himal trek altitude (5,587 m above sea level) and Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara accessibility. 

No doubt, Mardi Himal Trekking is an adventurous hike that offers striking views of snow-capped Himalayan mountains and beautiful rhododendron-covered trails (in spring). Located east of the Ghorepani Poon Hill with the Annapurna Base Camp trekking route, Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent alternative to the crowded trails in the Annapurna region.

If you are looking for something new and extra to explore in the Annapurna region, then the Mardi Himal Trek is the perfect option. As the trail is relatively new, not many trekkers have explored its beauty.

The Mardi Himal Trekking Route does not see an immense crowd of trekkers; therefore, if you are looking for a tranquil trekking route, then this is the one. The trail goes through traditional, remote villages and lush forests. The mountain villages and the traditions of the locals enhance the venture with its cultural aspect. 

You can see the day-to-day lifestyle of the locals. You will cross thrilling suspension bridges on the way and get to see stunning alpine landscapes. The trail offers breathtaking views of mountains like Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,455 m), and several others. 

The Mardi Himal hike route from Pokhara drives to Phedi. From Phedi, the trail ascends to Deurali and continues towards Upper Viewpoint via Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp. The entire trekking route is covered with dense forests of oak, maple, juniper, pine, and rhododendron. From High Camp, the trail opens up to pastures and meadows.

We also organize tailor-made Mardi Himal Trek itineraries. To do the 5-day Mardi Himal Trek, 8-day Mardi Himal Trek, or to know about the Mardi Himal Trek shortest route, you can talk to our representative any time

 Feel free to contact us anytime to learn about the Mardi Himal Trek cost or the Mardi Himal Trek cost for Nepalis. Also, check out our other adventurous hiking packages in the Himalayas: the Annapurna Base Camp with Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho lake, and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

WHY CHOOSE MYSTIC ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS FOR THE MARDI HIMAL TREK?

3S: Safety, Success, and Satisfaction

Booking a Mardi Himal Trek package with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here's why:

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude treks.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise. 
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the journey.
  • Porter Service: A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.

By choosing Mystic Adventure Holidays, you ensure a safe, successful, and satisfying adventure in the Himalayas.

Itinerary

At Mystic Adventure Holidays, our intention is always to follow the Mardi Himal Trek itinerary. However, due to the nature of travel, we may need to make slight changes because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather-related cancellations or delays of domestic flights, natural disasters like landslides, newly enacted laws, political unrest, or trekkers' health issues, including altitude sickness. While the itinerary is brief and fixed, it also includes flexible areas. Therefore, we advise travelers to allow a few extra days in Nepal.

We highly recommend that you arrive one day before the trip starts to rest and purchase any necessary clothing, gear, and equipment for the hike. You can also use this extra day for a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, acclimatizing, or rescheduling international flights in case of potential weather delays or domestic flight cancellations.

We appreciate your flexibility and look forward to providing you with an unforgettable adventure!

It is our regular day-to-day itinerary if you are looking for a customized itinerary. Don't hesitate to contact us.

Trip PlanExpand all

Kathmandu, Nepal's capital city, is located in a valley surrounded by picturesque green hills on all sides. Assume you enter through the flight (Airways). The Mystic Adventure Holidays representative will be in the airport terminal with our company flag. Nepali CultureThe traditional greeting is to press one's palms together in front of the chest and utter "Namaste" (which means "I greet the god within you"). Depending on the level of the person you are welcoming, you may greet them with a nod of the head or a bow, as well as khadas (Buddhist shawls) or garlands and a crimson tika (tilak) on your forehead. Garlands and tilaks are used in Nepal to signify honor when someone comes.to wish you a hearty welcome. After welcoming you, our representative will drop you off at your hotel and assist you with the check-in process. If you come by road, our representative will greet you at your location.

There will be no activities scheduled for you. You can relax, and if you wish to explore, you may do so on your own. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu

Before visiting Nepal, you may have learned how to greet someone with a 'Namaste' or thank someone with a 'Dhanyabad'. However, it's important to note that Nepal is an ancient civilization with its own set of ideologies and mannerisms. Here are some social etiquettes specific to Nepal that can help you avoid being disrespectful or humiliating in public. Nepal's roads are unpredictable. Roads are usually congested, resulting in numerous traffic backups. Most places lack traffic lights, forcing drivers to rely on hand gestures from police officers. Visit religious places and UNESCO-listed places.

  • Swoyambhu Nath Stupa
  • Boudhnath Stupa,
  • Pashupatinath Temple,
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square,
  • Patan Durbar Square
Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: Welcome dinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km

An extra day in Kathmandu will introduce you to the Nepali lifestyle and culture and also give you time to do final preparation for the trek. The day begins early, and you will go on a guided tour of Swayambhunath, the famous Monkey Temple. 

From here, the tour guide will take you to the holy Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhnath Stupa. Both of these temples hold significant religious values for Hindus and Buddhists. You will end the tour at Kathmandu Durbar Square, visiting the palace and courtyards.

Later in the afternoon, we will introduce you to the trek guide, who will give you a short briefing about the trek and help you with the final preparation for the trek.

Max Altitude: 1,300 m Meals: Breakfast only & Welcome DinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: Full Day

The Kathmandu-Pokhara drive is long. You will be following a well-made road that goes along the rushing Trishuli River, offering stunning views of rolling, lush green hills and cascading waterfalls. On a clear day, you may also get to see a glimpse of snow-capped mountains from a distance. Upon reaching Pokhara, the City of Lakes, we will help you with check-in. Enjoy the remaining day exploring the Lakeside Market.

Max Altitude: 822 m Meals: Breakfast & lunchAccommodation: HotelDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 200 km

From Pokhara, you will drive to Phedi. It is the starting point of the trek. The trail from here includes stone steps and terraced fields. You will pass by remote villages and dense forests before reaching Dhampus. After taking a short break here for lunch, continue trekking towards Deurali, a small, beautiful village that offers fine views of Mardi Himal, Mt. Fishtail, and Annapurna South.

Max Altitude: 2,100 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 30 min drive & 4-5 hrs trekDistance: 24 km

The trail steeply ascends through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, hemlock, birch, and daphnia. Along the way, you may get to see wildlife like deer, monkeys, leopards, and many species of birds. After enjoying the views of snow-capped mountains, you will reach Forest Camp to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 2,520 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 9 km

From Forest Camp, the trail continues through dense forests to Low Camp. The vegetation and views along the route will be fantastic. You may see fellow trekkers as well in the peak season. Spend some time in the evening, connecting with locals and observing their mountain lifestyle. It is going to be a short trek day today. Therefore, you will have a lot of time to rest and enjoy the trek.

From Low Camp, you will begin trekking towards High Camp, relishing stunning views of the Annapurna range, Mt. Fishtail, and Mardi Himal. You will come out of the forests, and the trail finally opens up to clear views of the snow-capped mountains. Trekking through scrub forest and open meadows, you will follow a narrow route to the High Camp.

Max Altitude: 3,600 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 9 km

Today, you will wake up early in the morning and hike to the Upper Viewpoint to witness a glorious sunrise and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The trail ascends along a narrow ridgeline to the Upper Viewpoint. After spending some time there, you will retrace the trail back to High Camp and take lunch, then back down to Low Camp to spend the night.

Max Altitude: 4,500 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 16 km

Following a different route, you will trek towards Sidhing village. The trail ascends through lush forests and small settlement areas. You will get a closer look at the local community's lifestyle and their practices in this village.

Max Altitude: 1,700 m Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinnerAccommodation: TeahouseDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 18 km

Have a delicious breakfast and begin descending towards Lumre. From here, you will drive back to Pokhara. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free for you to rest and enjoy as per your wish.  drive to Pokhara overnight Pokhara: 2-3 hours trek trekking and 2 hours driving. 

Noted:  explore Pokhara. Drive to Pumdikot to catch the gorgeous sunrise and visit tourist sites like Davis Falls, Bat Cave, Gupteshwor Cave, etc. Pokhara is the city of outdoor adventure. You can do paragliding, bungee jumping, cycling, ultra-light flight rides, and many others. If you want to do any of these adventurous activities, do let us know. We will arrange it for you (not included in the package cost). 

Max Altitude: 822 m Meals: Breakfast & lunchAccommodation: HotelDuration: 3-4 hr trek & 1.5 hr driveDistance: 54 km

After breakfast, you can choose to drive or fly to Kathmandu. Both ways offer excellent landscapes. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will drop you off at the hotel. Take your time to rest and unpack from the trip. Later, visit the local market and explore more. Window shopping is very famous. In the late evening, meet with the team members for the last time over a farewell dinner.

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: Breakfast & farewell dinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 200 km

Here concludes the journey. Today, it is time for you to return home. Our Mystic Adventure Holidays airport representative will send you off 3.5 hours before you arrive in Kathmandu, following a traffic jam that we observe, and upon your arrival, we will assist you with check-out and transport you to the airport before the time of your flight. The time has come to bid Dieu.

We dress you in traditional khada in anticipation of your safe journey and good fortune.  It's time to say farewell. We put you in traditional khada for good luck and a safe flight. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to plan your trip. I am glad to be part of your Nepal journey. I hope you have a wonderful time in Nepal. see you again, Nepal, once, but never enough. Have a safe flight back to your home. Best wishes from Mystic Adventure Holidays.

Max Altitude: 1350m Meals: Breakfast onlyDuration: 30-45 minDistance: 6km
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Cost Details
Included
  • Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle during your international arrivals and departures 
  • Welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali kitchen with a cultural dance show
  • 3X-night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (Apsara Boutique Hotel and Kantipur Village Hotel)
  • 2X-night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast (Kuti Resort and  Aabas Hotel ) or similar standard
  • Kathmandu city sightseeing in private vehicles with a city tour guide 
  • best available teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Pokhara to Deurali Jeep transport
  • Sidding-to-Pokhara Jeep Transport
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek, including 3 times tea or coffee per day
  • All ground transportation, as per the itinerary 
  • An experienced, licensed, and English-speaking trek leader and assistant trek leader, if necessary 
  • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter).
  • Staff costs include their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays trekking bag/duffel bag, which you can put your things in and carry by porter (duffel bags need to be returned at the end of the trek)
  • A call for rescue if any emergency happens
  • An achievement certificate
  • Mystic Adventure Holidays  t-shirt and trekking map as souvenirs
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader).
  • All government, local taxes, and operating expenses
Excluded
  • Nepalese visa fee
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Domestic flight (Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s), 10% of You Pay and driver(s)
  • Noted: In case you want to cancel or return something that happened on the mountain, you don't get refund Check the terms and conditions 
Route Map
Mardi Himal Trek
Altitude Chart
Mardi Himal Trek
Dates & Availability

For private departures, contact us anytime. We also have custom-designed Mardi Himal Trek itineraries for travelers who want to make changes to our fixed Mardi Himal Trek itinerary. 
 

Essential Info

Mardi Himal Trek terrain & difficulty 

For beginner hikers, the Mardi Himal Trek will be moderate. The trek does offer a hint of off-beat trekking, but it is doable for trekkers of all age groups. Moreover, it is one of the best treks to enjoy the adventure of trekking in the Himalayas with your friends and family. There are many factors, like the route you choose, the number of trekking days, and the season, that may affect the difficulty level of Mardi Himal Trekking. 

If you are an experienced hiker, then you can also do Mardi Himal Trek in 4 to 7 days. There is no vertical climbing or difficult ascents, but you have to walk 5–6 hours at least every day. The trail is rocky and can get slippery in some parts. Therefore, you have to be in good health and physically fit. 

The chances of altitude sickness during Mardi Himal Trekking are very low. Still, don't be careless, and make sure to inform your guide if you see any symptoms of altitude sickness. Check out this article to learn more in detail about altitude sickness and its preventive measures. 

Best time to go on Mardi Himal Trek

You can do Mardi Himal hike in spring, autumn, and early winter. But the Mardi Himal Trek's best season are spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November). While trekking in spring and autumn, make sure you have clear views, stable weather, and a pleasant climate. 

The forests bloom with rhododendrons and oak trees in the spring, whereas autumn adds a hint of cold air and festivity to the journey. The temperature ranges from 10 °C to 20°C. Trekking in the summer/monsoon means rainfall almost every day, which makes the trail muddy and slippery. Not pleasing. The views get blocked, and the trek becomes more of a chore. We do not recommend trekking in this season.

You can do Mardi Himal Trek in winter (December to February), but you have to be well-prepared and packed to face extreme cold. The trail gets covered with snow, and the climate gets very dry. If the fog is not present, the views are breathtaking. The temperature can fall below 0°C. 

Food & Accommodation during Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal hike is a teahouse hike. Even though the tea house is pretty basic, there will be no difficulty in spending the night. We will pre-book the rooms for you to make sure you will have a place to spend the night in peak seasons. 

There are many restaurants along the trail where we will have lunch and dinner. We usually have breakfast in the tea house, where we spend the night. It's not necessary but it's a different kind of culture. For meals, you can get Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and Continental dishes. Of course, the options will be limited, and the taste may not be the same as in the city.

Mardi Himal Trek Weather and Temperature

You will experience the best weather from September to November and March until May in the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek. You can trek in monsoon and winter as well. The morning and night will be chilly near base camp, while in lower altitudes you will experience normal temperatures. The temperature in the base camp ranges from 15 degrees Celsius to -3 degrees Celsius. 

Flight, Transportation, and Luggage

If you are a foreigner, you need to have a visa to travel to Nepal. As soon as you land in Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up and take you to the hotel via private bus or taxi. You must be flexible during your itinerary as the Kathmandu to Pokhara flight gets delayed due to weather problems. We will transport you via public bus, car, or jeep during your stay until you start your trek. There is a luggage limit of 23 kg during your International flight. When you are traveling via domestic flight, the weight limit of baggage is 20 kg. 

High Altitude Sickness & Trekking Grade

The Trek to Mardi Himal takes you to an altitude of only 4,500 meters, so there is no chance of altitude sickness. Bring Diamox in case you suffer from altitude sickness. The grade of Mardi Himal trekking is moderate and anyone can complete this short trek. 

 Toilet and Shower facility

There is a comfortable room with an attached bathroom in the first few days of the trek. When you cross forest vamp or low camp, you have to share a bathroom in the tea houses. You need to pay USD 1 to USD 2 per litre for a hot shower in the teahouses and lodges.  

Telephone, Internet, and Electricity

The Internet and telephone network are available in a few places during your hike. You can use the internet facility in tea houses but you need to pay the extra charge. There will be electricity outrage if rainfall occurs. 

Trekking Equipment &Trekking Days

All the necessary gear and equipment are available at reasonable rates in Kathmandu Valley. So, avoid paying extra costs for heavy luggage on international flights. Normally, it takes 11 days to hike the Mardi Himal trek from arrival day to departure day. Once you start your trek, you need to walk throughout the day, which may last for more than 7 hours a day You will start your trek after having breakfast at teahouses and will stop for lunch on the way. We will end the day by reaching the destination and having a warm dinner with your teammates and team leaders. 

Customized itinerary and trip extensions

We customize itineraries for hikers who want to trek in their free time. We organize trips according to your schedule and can extend your trip by adding other adventures. In addition to Mardi Himal Trek, we can organize trips to Langtang, Everest, Ghorepani Poon Hill, Manaslu, Mustang trekking, Mountain Flight, water rafting,  jungle safari, City tour (Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini ), homestay Tour, Nepal Cultural Tour, Tibet tour, Bhutan tour or India tour extension as per your time limit. 

Tips to make the Mardi Himal hike journey smooth

  • Keep yourself hydrated to avoid high-altitude sickness. Drink at least 2 liters of water every day. 
  • Trek slowly and carefully. The trail can get rugged at some point.
  • Carry your favorite snacks and bars.
  • Do not buy water bottles along the trail; get a reusable bottle to drink water from. Plastic water bottles can get very expensive.
  • Buy a Nepali SIM card with data to use the internet on trial. You may not get a stable connection everywhere.
  • You may have to pay a few extra bucks to use WiFi, take a hot shower, or charge your devices at some places; therefore, carry enough cash with you. There are no ATMs on the trail. 
  • Extra batteries or a solar charger will come in handy.
  • Do not touch or eat any flowers/fruits randomly on the trail.
     
FAQs

March to April and October to November are the best months of the year to do Mardi Himal trekking. 

If you are trekking from Kathmandu, then you have to drive from Pokhara to Phedi, which is the starting point of the trek. From here, you ascend, passing by Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, and High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Mardi Himal Trekking is a moderate trek. The trail is doable for people of all ages. There are a few rough sections, but anyone can trek on it with proper guidance.

The cost of the Mardi Himal Trek may differ as per your itinerary—generally, the trek costs between USD 490 and USD 1750. You can also do this trek on a budget, but you must cut off some services.

It takes around 5 to 7 days to trek to Mardi Himal from Pokhara, depending on your fitness level. 

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