7 Days Mardi Himal Trekking

A representative from Oriental Journeys will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport. You will be taken to a hotel for your night’s stay. You will have your first taste in Nepal in the evening.

You have the option to drive or fly to Pokhara. A short flight of approx 20 minutes takes you to Pokhara. Alternatively, you can drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a tourist coach that departs at 7 am. Take your packed breakfast for the drive/fly. The highway passes through the lovely places alongside the Trisuli River. It is a 6-7 hours drive to reach Pokhara. Drive to Kande as soon as you reach Pokhara. A short trek to hike up to the Austrian Camp popularly pronounced as Australian Camp (2060m). This is a fantastic viewpoint for the overnight.

Enjoy a beautiful sunrise view over the Himalayas in the morning then trek to forest camp. The trail follows the ridge up to Forest camp. On the way pass, Pothana, and Deurali. It is a pleasing hike through the rhododendron forest with a gradual uphill.

The day hike takes you to a higher altitude but a pleasing wood walk is fantastic. Witness the diverse vegetation and mountain views throughout the trail. Take your lunch at Low Camp along a stunning mountain views. The tree lines end after the Badal Danda.   Overnight at a lodge in High Camp.

Wake up before the dawn and head up to the Mardi Himal Base Camp for the sunrise view. Relatively, the trails are tougher but the local management committee has installed handrails at risky points. Carefully step in and enjoy your hike. The steep climb will take about 2 hrs to the ridge top which is marked as MBC (Mardi Himal Base Camp). However, the real base camp will take about another 2 hrs along the ridge. The view is amazing all along the ridge. While Mardi Himal and Mt Fishtail appear right above us, the view of Annapurna I, Gangapurna, and Annapurna III also appears at a distance.

It will be a long downhill walk for the day. The trail climbs down continuously to the village of Siding. There is access to a motorable road at Siding. You will take a vehicle to reach Pokhara in the evening.

Drive back to Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway. It is again a 6-7 hours drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You will have time to enjoy souvenir shopping around the shops of Thamel.

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and less occupied hiking route in the Annapurna area, with breathtaking views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. It offers breathtaking scenery and cultural activities. Trekking to Mardi Himal offers mind-blowing experiences with natural, jaw-dropping scenery and awe-inspiring landscapes.

This trek is somewhat challenging, featuring steep ascents and descents. It is suitable for trekkers with average fitness and prior trekking experience, but the level of difficulty level can vary for each individual. Oriental Journeys always advises having appropriate fitness to ensure a pleasant trekking experience.

The finest times for trekking are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). These seasons provide a beautiful sky, pleasant temperatures, the greatest views of the mountains, and stunning natural scenery. However, this trek is available all year.

Essential items to pack include:

• Comfortable trekking boots
• Layered clothing (including warm layers for higher altitudes)
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Hat, gloves, and sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Water bottle and purification tablets
• Basic first aid kit
• Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
• Snacks and energy bars
• Camera or smartphone for photos

Yes. You need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These may be acquired in either Pokhara or Kathmandu. Oriental Journeys can assist you to obtain permits.

The trek usually starts from Kande or Phedi, which are about a 1-2 hour drive from Pokhara. Pokhara is easily accessible by a short flight or a 6-8 hour bus ride from Kathmandu.

Accommodation typically takes place in tea houses or lodges, with modest amenities such as a bed, an ordinary restroom, and simple meals. In certain areas, you may find guesthouses with substantially better amenities.

Tea houses offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali cuisine like dal bhat (rice and lentils) and Western-style specialties like pancakes, noodles, and fried rice. Vegetarian choices are easily available.

Tap water can be used. However, it is not recommended to drink tap water. Always use water purification tablets or buy bottled water from tea houses.

You can trek independently as the trails are relatively well-marked. However, hiring a guide can enhance your experience, provide local insights, and ensure safety.

In an emergency, please inform your guide or the nearest tea house owner. They can help arrange for medical assistance or evacuation if necessary. Having travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation is highly recommended.

The cost can vary based on your spending habits, but a rough estimate would be:

• Accommodation: $10-25 per night
• Meals: $10-20 per meal
• Guide: $25-30 per day
• Porter: $15-20 per day
• Permits: Around $50 in total (for both ACAP and TIMS)

Always feel free to ask if you have any more queries or enquiries or need further details!