Overview
Mardi Himal Trekking is an off-the-beaten-path trekking route that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region. Located just east of the popular Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal trek offers a quieter, more secluded experience for trekkers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
The Mardi Himal Trek begins in the picturesque city of Pokhara, where you’ll have time to acclimate to the altitude and take in the stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. From there, you’ll embark on a journey through dense forests, lush meadows, and rugged terrain, as you make your way to the base camp of Mardi Himal.
The trail passes through traditional Nepali villages, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience the local culture and way of life. You’ll also see a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan pheasants, langurs, and if you’re lucky, even snow leopards.
The highlight of the trek is the view from the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. From here, you’ll also have a stunning view of the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak, which is considered sacred by the local people.
How long is Mardi Himal Trek
The route is relatively short compared to other treks in the region, taking only 5-7 days to complete. However, the trail is steep and challenging at times, requiring a good level of fitness and endurance. But the effort is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Hiunchuli peaks.
Best Time to do Mardi Himal Trekking
The best time to trek Mardi Himal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is clear and dry, and the views are spectacular. However, the trek can be done year-round, with the winter months offering a quieter, more peaceful experience.
Permits Required for Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is a popular trekking destination located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal. However, before embarking on this adventure, it is important to know the permits required for Mardi Himal Trek.
The two main permits required for Mardi Himal Trek are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card.
ACAP is a permit that is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is issued by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and costs around NPR 30USD for foreign nationals and NPR 10USD for SAARC nationals. The ACAP permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, as well as from the ACAP office in Besisahar.
The TIMS Card is also mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal. It is issued by the Nepal Tourism Board and is intended to provide information on the trekkers’ whereabouts in case of an emergency. The TIMS Card costs around NPR 20USD for all trekkers. The TIMS Card can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Where does this Trek starts and ends
The Mardi Himal Trek starts from the city of Pokhara, which is located about 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu. Pokhara is a beautiful city with a stunning view of the Annapurna Range and Phewa Lake. The trek starts with a drive from Pokhara to Kande, which is about an hour’s drive away. From Kande, the trekking trail leads through beautiful forests of rhododendron and oak trees.
The trek takes you through charming villages such as Australian Camp, Landruk, and Deurali, where you can experience the local culture and lifestyle of the people. The trekking trail also offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and valleys.
The Mardi Himal Trek ends in the city of Pokhara, where you can unwind and relax after the trek. Pokhara offers a range of activities such as boating, paragliding, and bungee jumping, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.
This trek ends in Siding, from siding it takes around 1.5 hours to reach Pokhara.
