Mardi Himal Trekking

Mardi Himal Trek - 7 Days

The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the Annapurna Region’s hidden gems. Where most people would trek to Annapurna Base Camp, you have the opportunity to trek around the corner and get off the beaten trail. This hiking adventure takes you to the Mardi Himal base camp, which is located in the laps of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre, and is known as Fishtail.

Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect choice for travelers with limited time but seeking a beautiful trekking experience in Nepal. This trek offers wonderful a solitary walk on the Annapurna region‘s remote trails. Mardi Himal Trek is a short and moderate trek which is ideal for both beginner and experienced trekkers.

Mardi Himal is located in Nepal’s Mid-Western region and it’s an amazing peak within the Annapurna Mountain Subrange of the Himalayas. At an altitude of 5,587 meters (or 18,330 ft) it stands east of the Annapurna base Camp Trail.

Nestled in the Gandaki Province of Nepal, within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the Mardi Himal region boasts abundant natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.

The Mardi Himal Trek 7 Days package provides an opportunity to explore this rich region. Starting from Pokhara, the trek leads through untouched landscapes with stunning views.

Mardi Himal’s biodiversity comprises vegetation, rocky fields, grass, and clean environment. It also offers breathtaking views to its north towards Mardi Himal and other great mountains such as Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

In summary, Mardi Himal provides a rewarding trekking experience for those seeking a quieter and less crowded alternative to some of the more famous trekking routes in the Himalayas of Nepal.

Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal

The best time to go trekking in Nepal is from mid-September to early December. Without a doubt! This also applies to the Mardi Himal Trek.

If you trek from February to April, you will be trekking at the second best time of year for the Mardi Himal Trek. Despite the fact that it is the end of the dry season, it still offers the best weather.

Winter lasts from December to January. The sky is clear. However, the temperature is pretty low and difficult to adjust to. Also, there could be a plenty of snow on the trail. Heavy snowfall and blizzards could cause the passes close.

Late May to June is pre monsoon season in Nepal. It’s pretty hot. During this time, you will see valleys blooming rhododendron flowers. The aroma of wildflowers will invite you to discover the beautiful trails.

June to mid-September is the time for heavy rainfalls and cloudy skies bringing monsoon rain. The monsoon season is not the ideal time to trek Mardi Himal, but still doable!

Required Permits for Mardi Himal Trek

When embarking on a journey to Mardi Himal in Nepal, it’s crucial to understand the permits required and their associated costs. These permits not only regulate trekkers but also play a vital role in the conservation of the stunning Annapurna region.

The Mardi Himal Trek requires two compulsory permits. First, it involves TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management System) Card, and second is ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit. The cost of these permits are given below:

For International Travelers:

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System):

  • Individual: NPR 2000 or USD 18
  • Group: NPR 1000 or USD 9

The TIMS card is a key document for individual and group trekkers from outside SAARC countries. It helps track trekkers, ensuring their safety and providing valuable data for emergency response.

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project):

  • Cost: NPR 3000 or USD 27

Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit

This permit is required since the trail to Mardi Himal touches some part of Annapurna region too. The ACAP permit fee contributes to the conservation and sustainable development of the Annapurna region.

For SAARC Countries Travelers:

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System):

  • Individual: NPR 300 or USD 2
  • Group: NPR 600 or USD 4

Trekkers from SAARC countries have reduced permit fees, making it more accessible for travelers from neighboring nations.

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project):

  • Cost: NPR 1000 or USD 9

SAARC trekkers also contribute to the conservation efforts by obtaining the ACAP permit, although at a reduced rate.

These permits are crucial for your safety, trekking activities, and the preservation of the natural beauty in the Annapurna region. Make sure to obtain the necessary permits and enjoy your Mardi Himal trek while supporting the conservation efforts.

Guides & Porters

  • The Crucial Role of Guides
  • Experience and Local Knowledge

Guides And Porters

Hiring an experienced guide is imperative for a successful Mardi Himal Trek. These guides possess an in-depth knowledge of the local terrain, weather conditions, and trekking routes. Their experience ensures that you can navigate the sometimes challenging paths with ease, while they share their insights into the culture, flora, and fauna of the region.

Safety During Trek

Safety is a paramount concern when trekking in the Himalayas. Experienced guides are well-versed in first aid and can provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies. From altitude sickness to minor injuries, their quick response can make a life-saving difference.

Cultural Experience

The Mardi Himal region is rich in culture, and guides can provide valuable insights into the traditions and lifestyles of the local communities. This adds depth and cultural enrichment to your trekking experience.

Role of Porters

Lightening Your Load

Trekking in the Himalayas involves carrying essential gear and supplies. Porters play a crucial role in lightening your load. They will carry your heavy backpack, leaving you free to enjoy the trek without the burden of excessive weight.

Supporting Local Communities

Hiring local porters contributes to the economic well-being of the remote communities along the trekking routes. Your decision to employ porters helps these communities by providing employment opportunities, and it also ensures you have local expertise at your service.

Cost of Mardi Himal Trek

Itinerary Cost:

Mardi Himal 7 Days Trek in Himalaya Discovery starts from USD 665. This package comprises several terms and conditions, including cost includes and excludes. Fees of permits, accommodations, guides & porters are included. However, the cost of international flights, tips for guides and porters, and evacuation activities are excluded.

Remember, this cost is only for the Mardi Himal Trek 7 Days Package. There are several other packages for Mardi Himal Trek, which comes with several price tags.

Guides & Porter Cost:

Guides and porters also charge you some portion of your trekking package cost. On average, the cost of a guide ranges anywhere from $25 to $35 per person. Similarly, the cost of porters will range from $20 to $30 per person.

The important thing to consider here is that the experience, seasons of your trek, and itinerary will make a huge difference in their cost.

Mardi Himal Trek Map

Mardi Himal Trek Map

Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal (1400m)

Welcome to the Himalayas. Our officials will escort them into their respective hotels and bring at our Himalaya Discovery Office for the trek description.

There will be a welcome program after which trekkers will return to their hotels for an overnight sleep.

Day 2
Drive to Kande (about 7 hrs.) and trek to Pothana

Today, we will leave the capital city of Nepal and head towards Kande. This will be our beginning of the Mardi Himal Trek. We will travel from Kathmandu to Kande in a compact Toyota Hiace, following the Prithvi Highway that links Kathmandu and Pokhara. The route offers scenic views of the majestic Himalayas alongside the Trisuli River.

Similarly, the green forests, terraced fields, and ever-flowing rivers will offer a soothing experience throughout our ride.

Upon reaching Kande, our journey begins. The trail is initially steep until Australian Camp, after which it becomes a comfortable and leisurely walk to Pothana.

Today’s trek is short and straightforward, providing an opportunity to acclimate to hiking in Nepal. We will spend the night at a guesthouse.

Day 3
Trek to Forest Camp (2,525m) 4 - 5 hours

Today’s trek starts from Pothana and ends in Forest Camp. To reach there, we will diverge from the main Annapurna Base Camp route and follow the remote path through the dense forest of oak, bamboo, and rhododendron.

The trek is 4 to 5 hours long, where we will enjoy the majestic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. A few hours of trek from Pothana, we will reach Deurali.

After hiking for the next few hours, we will finally reach Forest Camp, where we will accommodate at one of the Forest Camp Lodges. These lodges feature wood fireplaces, and there are three available. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.

Day 4
Trek to Badal Danda (2,975) 5 hrs.

On the fourth day of the Mardi Himal Trek, our goal is to reach Badal Danda, a captivating viewpoint along our route. Departing from Forest Camp, we’ll follow a secluded trail through a lush, biodiverse forest.

The trek offers stunning views of Mt. Machapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail) as we progress up the valley. Even within the forested surroundings, we’ll be treated to breathtaking glimpses of the majestic ‘Fishtail’ to the North.

Our day concludes with a well-deserved rest at a tea house in Badal Danda.

Day 5
Trek to High Camp (3,580m) 3 - 4 hrs.

Today’s day starts with breakfast at Badal Danda. After that, we will continue our trek towards High Camp at 3580 meters above sea level. Our journey progresses along the Mardi Himal ridge, primarily through shrubbery with occasional rhododendron clusters along the path.

While we hike uphill through this trail, we will be welcomed with a splendid view of Annapurna South and Hiuchuli to the West. As we reach High Camp, we also can enjoy exceptional views of Hiuchuli and (Fishtail) Machhapuchhre, as well as Annapurna South.

From there, we can push our hike towards Mardi Himal Base Camp, which will be an exceptional hike. All in all, the mystic mountain peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range will be one of the astonishing factors of this trek.

Day 6
Trek to Siding village (1,700m) 5 hours, and drive to Pokhara 40 mins.

Having reached the Mardi Himal Base Camp, it’s now time to begin our return journey. Initially, we’ll retrace our steps along the familiar trail back to Low Camp.

Upon reaching Low Camp, we’ll take a different route to complete the circuit. Instead of returning through Forest Camp, we’ll redirect our trail towards Siding village, a traditional local community that provides a more tranquil experience compared to mainstream tourist routes.

Day 7
Drive / Fly back to Kathmandu.

Optionally, if your time permits, spend an extra day in Pokhara and enjoy the delights of Pokhara, taking a trip to a spa massage or listening to live music. Or simply relax in a quiet café or restaurant with a view of the Fewa Lake.

Today, we drive back to Kathmandu. It will take about 7 hours, overland journey by tourist coach. And the gentle light brings us on our way back to the bustle of Nepal’s capital. In the evening we will have a farewell dinner in a traditional Nepalese restaurant with cultural performances.

Price Includes

  • Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off.
  • 1-night’ accommodation in Pokhara.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permits.
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Permit.
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist coach.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • Transportations, accommodation, wage, food, insurance, equipment for the guide & porter.
  • Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 people)
  • Guesthouse accommodations during the trek.
  • All necessary paper works and entry permits.
  • English speaking Sherpa trek guide.
  • Himalaya Discovery duffel bag.
  • Hiking pole for the trek, if needed.
  • Trek map.
  • Farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant after the trip completion in Kathmandu.

Price Excludes

  • International airfares and Nepal visa.
  • Any personal medical or evacuation expenses incur.
  • International Travel insurance which included rescue.
  • Tips for guide & porter (tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on the ‘Price Includes’ section.

Q. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

A. Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. S/he will be displaying an Himalaya Discovery Adventures sign board outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Q. When is the best time to travel to Nepal?

A. For the trekking regions of the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, Jumla Rara Lake, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Manaslu we recommend the periods February to May and September to December as the best time for travelling.

  •  For trekking in Mustang or Dolpo region we recommend May to September.
  • The Poon hill  trek  in the Annapurna region takes place throughout the entire year.
  • Cultural tours takes place throughout the entire year. For the best mountain views the periods February to May and September to December are recommended.

Q. How is the climate (temperatures) during the seasons?

A. Winter – January and February. Pleasant temperatures. The nights, mornings and evenings can, however, be quite cold (approx. 0°C – 5°C. Throughout the day, it is mostly sunny with cooler temperatures (approx. 18°C – 20°C).

Spring – March to May. Hot and dry pre-monsoon season (approx. 25°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 7°C – 20°C at night). May is the hottest month in the lowlands. June is the hottest month in the mountains.

Summer – Monsoon from June to August (approx. 28°C – 30°C during the day, and approx. 20°C at night). Strong rainfall, continuous sultriness and high humidity.

Early autumn – From September the monsoon season is constantly interrupted by periods with only a slight rainfall. Towards the end of August the pauses in rainfall become more frequent and longer.

Late autumn – Post-monsoon season from October to December. The nights, mornings and evenings can be relatively cool (approx. 5°C – 10°C). During the day the sun shines and it is warm (approx. 20°C – 27°C).

Q. Where can I change money?

A. Any cash you have taken with you can be exchanged into Nepalese rupees at the banks, large hotels and the numerous bureau de changes.

Q. Can I use my mobile phone in Nepal?

A. The network coverage is meanwhile quite good in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara and other parts of the Terai (in the rural areas it is very unpredictable).

Basically, foreign SIM cards (providers having international roaming contracts with Nepal) can also be used. However, it is cheaper to buy a local SIM card (Mero Mobile, NTC (GSM) – for approx. NPR 500 or more) and top this up.

Q. Can I use the tap water for drinking and brushing teeth?

A. Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Nepal and it should not be used for cleaning your teeth, either. As there is often a scarcity of water in the countryside, water should be used very sparingly.

Q. What should I concern during my stay in Nepal?

A. Nepali people are very kind and friendly, but there are some things that you should be aware of:

  • Do not take photos of anyone without their permission; always ask permission first!
  • Do not wear hot pants/short paints or stylish clothes in the remote area! (shoulders and legs should be covered)
  • Do not wear hats or caps when you enter a chapel!
  • Do not touch Buddha statues or ritual offerings inside of a monastery!
  • Do not kiss or hug in public places, especially in monasteries!
  • Do not step across someone’s feet, cups or cooking gears!

Q. What documents do I need to visit Nepal?

A. A tourist visa is required for entering Nepal. The tourist visa can be applied for, for different lengths of stay. A visa is required for children under 10 years but no fee is charged. The entry to Nepal must take place within 6 months of issuing the visa.

Q. How much does the Visa for Nepal cost?

A. The fees for the tourist visa (fees valid since 16.07.2008) are staggered as follows:

  • 15 days (several entries possible)  $ 30 (approx. EUR 27.00)
  • 30 days (several entries possible)  $ 50 (approx. EUR 45.00)
  • 90 days (several entries possible)  $ 125 (approx. EUR 115.00)

An extension of the visa to a maximum of 150 days is possible (per year – January to December). The extension must be made at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu. A fee of $ 2.00 is charged in Nepalese rupees (NPR) per day of extension.

Q. Can I find a hospital with western doctors?

A. CIWEC Clinic with western doctors is located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Tel. +977 1 442 4111, info@ciwec-clinic.com.

Q. Do I need an international health and travel insurance?

A. It is recommended taking out a travel and health insurance covering the following risks:- Emergency and personal accident transport/emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue, rescue costs in a case of illness or accident), medical and personal accident risks, repatriation, tour cancellation, damages and theft of baggage.

Q. What happens in bad weather periods?

A. There is virtually always a possibility of a flight delay or postponement owing to highly unpredictable weather conditions that may occur in Himalayan regions, in particular, in the Everest region (Lukla), Jomsom, Dolpo, Simikot and the Jumla region, etc.

When trekking in remote areas or those described above, and especially outside the trekking season, the clients are strongly advised to reserve extra days for making  allowance for possible delays, and thereby avoid any frustrating consequences. In the case of a delayed flight prior to commencing the tour, or at the end of the tour, the participants shall pay for their own accommodation, food costs, etc.

Q. Where can I store my unneeded luggage during trekking?

A. As a rule there is the possibility before commencing the trek, of depositing part of the baggage in the hotel in Kathmandu or in Pokhara.

Q. What kind of meals I can have during the trekking?

A. All Meals on full board basis will be provided during trekking. Freshly cooked food is served at all times (western, continental and Nepalese, Chinese, Indian and Tibetan meals are available in all places).

Q. Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

A. There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Q. Can I re-charge camera batteries along the trek?

A. Yes, Most of the places, you can charge batteries along the trek (per hour USD 2 – 3 for charging).

Q. What kinds of banking facilities in Nepal?

A. Nepal has modern banking facilities and some international banks even have offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Master card are accepted in Nepal. Nepal has also ATM facilities as well.

The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. This trek itinerary can be customized according to the duration of your holiday. We have many options for shorter visits based on your interests and budget.

On an adventure trip of this type, weather, political strikes, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is however very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Trek Leader and Crew

Here at Himalaya Discovery, we firmly believe that the way to get the most out of your staff is to treat them well; a happy staff is a hard-working staff. And this belief manifests itself in every way we deal with our staff.

We employ only local leaders and staff to help sustain the local communities we work with. We provide training for all our staff and all our trek leaders are trained in the following as a minimum;

  • Intensive Wilderness First Aid
  • Trekking Guide Training
  • Eco Trekking Workshop & Adventure Meet
  • English Language
  • Conservation & Biodiversity
  • Rock & Ice Climbing & Mountaineering (for expedition leaders)

So, we can guarantee you your trip will be led by the best, most professional and experienced guides there are. All of our guides good English-speakers, All our guides are carefully selected for their experience, leadership skills and personal ability. We have learnt that effective leadership is a vital for a trip to be safe, enjoyable and successful.

In fact, not only are all our guides experienced working in these regions, but most of them actually grew up in these mountainous regions of Nepal. Its home for them, it’s in their blood. They’re not only ‘familiar’ with local communities and culture; they’re a part of them and they practice it. They truly love their home and relish getting the opportunity to show travellers.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Mardi Himal Trek
From $665.00
per Adult

Trip Facts

  • 7 Days
  • Easy to Moderate
  • 8 People Maximum
  • March - May & Aug - Dec
  • 3540m.
  • 4 - 5 Hours
  • Kande / Siding
  • Annapurna
Chhiring Sherpa - Trip Planner

“I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature.”