Annapurna Mardi Himal Trek - 10 Days

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Trip Facts
  • Duration 10 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 4,500m / 14,763ft
  • Group Size 2 -15
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Trip Style Trekking

Trip Overview

Discover the Mystical Side of Nepal with an Offbeat Trekking Adventure. If you're a beginner or a family looking for a perfect trekking adventure, this newly opened Mardi Himal off-the-beaten-track trek in Nepal's Annapurna region is just for you! This trek is a moderate-level journey, perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without the large crowds of the more popular trails.

Starting from Kathmandu, we travel to Pokhara and then drive to Kande, the starting point of our trek. The gradual uphill walk starts from here. We head towards Deurali via Australian Camp and Pothana, a charming Gurung village located on the edge of the Annapurna Range. The route takes you through peaceful trails, crossing oak and rhododendron forests, which feel like stepping into a fairytale. As you walk along the ridge, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Annapurna mountains and the majestic Fishtail peak.

The trek continues with a visit to the Mardi Himal, a lesser-known destination, where the true spirit of adventure awaits. The trail brings you across various terrains, from alpine meadows to rugged moraine, as you trek towards the glacier. You'll experience the wilderness and serenity of the mountains, enjoying nature at its best.

On the return, we take a different route, descending through valleys and passing friendly villages by the Mardi River. These areas are far from the usual tourist bus routes, ensuring a peaceful and authentic trekking experience. The entire journey gives trekkers an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, vibrant local culture, and a sense of true exploration.

With simple tea houses for rest, this trek offers a blend of comfort and adventure. It’s a budget-friendly way to experience Nepal’s beauty, ideal for any trekker looking to discover the offbeat trails of the Himalayas. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique journey through Nepal’s hidden treasures!

Explore Nepal's Wilderness: Stunning Views &  Authentic Experiences

The Mardi Himal Trek: A Hidden Gem of Nepal

The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect offbeat adventure in Nepal, ideal for beginners, families, and budget travelers looking to explore the Himalayas away from crowded tourist routes. Starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then to Kande, the trek leads you through lush forests, remote villages, and stunning views of the Annapurna range and Fishtail Peak.

The journey takes trekkers across diverse terrains, including alpine meadows, great views of moraine and glaciers, offering a true Himalayan experience. With peaceful tea house stays, you can enjoy local culture and the beauty of nature along the way.

This trek is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and budget-friendly journey through Nepal’s wilderness, offering breathtaking views, friendly villages, and a serene trekking experience.

Ideal For Adventure Enthusiasts

The Mardi Himal Trek is perfect for beginners, families, and those looking for a budget-friendly trekking experience in Nepal. This offbeat trek doesn’t require any technical skills, making it ideal for those who are new to trekking or want a more relaxed adventure in the Himalayas.

It’s also a great option for families, as the trail is moderate in difficulty and offers comfortable stays in tea houses along the way. The route is not crowded with tourists, giving you a peaceful and more personal trekking experience, while still offering stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and valleys.

For budget travelers, Mardi Himal Trek is a fantastic choice. The trek offers affordable accommodation and meals in local tea houses, keeping costs low while still providing a fantastic trekking experience.

Whether you're a trekker, a first-time traveler, or a family looking to enjoy nature in Nepal’s wilderness, this trek is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.

Altitude Sickness And Precautions

The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a beginner-friendly and budget trek, and the chances of getting altitude sickness are quite low. The trek gradually ascends, starting from a lower altitude and moving up at a comfortable pace, which helps reduce the risk of altitude-related issues.

Since the trek doesn’t go above 4,500 meters, the highest point of Mardi Himal Base Camp, it is well within the safe limits for most trekkers, including families and newcomers to trekking. However, it’s always a good idea to take things slow, stay hydrated, and rest when needed, especially if you’re not used to high-altitude trekking.

This offbeat trek through Nepal’s Himalayas offers stunning views and a relaxed journey, with stays in tea houses along the way for rest and recovery. If you follow the recommended trekking guidelines, you can enjoy the scenery and wilderness of the mountains with minimal risk of altitude sickness, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers and families.

With Mystical Nepal Treks you are always in safe hands as we carry extensive medical kit and oxygen cylinders on all our trips.

With proper preparation, the Mardi Himal Trek provides a safe, memorable, and affordable trekking experience in the Annapurna Trekking Region of Nepal.

Itinerary
Day-to-day Plan
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Arriving at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the first step of your adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Once you collect your luggage and clear customs, you will be greeted warmly by your Trekking Group Leader or our Office Representative with a "Mystical Nepal Treks" board who will assist you and transfer you to your hotel.

Although Kathmandu is the busiest city in Nepal with hectic traffic, it still holds a unique charm with its local beauty and lively atmosphere. You will enjoy the fun of driving through its unfamiliar roads. The drive to the hotel will take you through Kathmandu’s lively streets, where the old and new come together. You’ll pass by ancient temples, busy markets, and modern shops, all blending into the colorful culture of Nepal.

Highlights:

  • Airport pickup.
  • Transfer to the hotel with your Group Leader.
  • Brief introduction about your trip.
  • Early arrival gives you a chance to explore Kathmandu.

Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593 feet
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Distance: 6 km
Transport: Airport Pickup

Enjoy your time and relax as you prepare for your trek ahead!

This drive journey to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital, via a scenic Prithvi Highway  is 200 km wonderful ride along the winding road. The road follows the Trishuli River, famous for rafting and lush hillsides. We have lunch on the highway stop, a beautiful spot by the river.  The new wider Pokhara Highway will soon make the journey more enjoyable.Upon arrival, check into a hotel near Phewa Lake. Free time to explore Pokhara, optional activities: Boating on Phewa Lake with stunning reflections of Annapurna peaks. Visit World Peace Pagoda for sunset views. Stroll along the Lakeside promenade, filled with cafes and souvenir shops.

Early morning, take a 1-hour drive from Pokhara to Kande (1,770 m/5,807 ft).
Start the uphill trek from Kande, walking through sub-tropical forests to reach Australian Camp. This will take approximately one and a half hours.
Take a long break at Australian Camp (2,165 m/7,103 ft) for lunch. If the weather is clear, you’ll be treated to a stunning panoramic view of Annapurna, with the sacred Fishtail peak in the background.
Continue trekking for another hour and a half on an easy trail to reach Deurali (2,200 m/7,218 ft).
Overnight stay in a local teahouse lodge at Deurali – experience the authentic local atmosphere.

Altitude: 2,200 m/7,218 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hour: 3/4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transport: Private Vehicle

After breakfast, we will leave Deurali and begin our hike through lush forests to reach our next destination, Forest Camp. The trail starts with a gentle ascent, and soon we will climb the steep switchback steps that take us up to a high ridgeline, where we will come across a shrine. This shrine holds great religious significance for the Gurung people who live in the region. Known as the Barah Temple, it is dedicated to their private cult, where they worship the sky goddess and their ancestors.

After visiting the shrine, we will continue along the ridgeline trail, which is beautifully enclosed by rhododendron forests. Soon, we will descend to a lovely spot with teashops, where we will take a short break for tea. Following this, we will enter the "Hobbit" residential area, famously known as the Lord of the Rings Trail.

We will then stop for lunch at Dudh Kharka. After lunch, we will climb up to the top ridge and then descend gradually down to reach Forest Camp. As the name suggests, this beautiful settlement lies within a dense forest, with around 9-10 teahouses to accommodate trekkers.

Altitude: 2,550m/8,366 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hour: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

As we depart from Forest Camp, we will once again follow the Lord of the Rings forested trail, guiding us through the lush rhododendron forests. Over the next 45 minutes, we will ascend through the landscape, with a particularly steep section breaking the steady climb. This part of the journey will end at Rest Camp, a temporary resting spot along the way.

Beyond Rest Camp, the trail continues upward towards our next destination, Low Camp. However, this section is not a regular uphill climb. Instead, the path undulates with gradual ascents, moderate climbs, and easy, flat walks. Through these varying slopes, we will reach Low Camp, a small settlement with a few teahouses where we will stop for lunch and take a much-needed break before continuing our hike.

From Low Camp, the first 45 minutes will be a steep climb through an amazing forested trail. The following switchback trails will eventually lead us to Bandal Danda. From the first lodge, it will take around 15 minutes to reach our teahouse, which is situated high on the ridge.

BANDAL DANDA: Bandal Danda, at 3,300m, is considered one of the most beautiful vantage points, offering a remarkable view of both the mountains and the surrounding landscapes.

Altitude: 3,300m/10,826 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hour: 4/5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we will start our day leisurely, as the hike to High Camp is short. After a healthy breakfast, we will take our time and hike towards High Camp at a relaxed pace. This 1.5-hour walk is one of the most thrilling experiences, offering close-up views of the majestic Machhapuchare (Holy Mt. Fishtail). To your right, you’ll witness endless valleys and vibrant hills, making this segment of the trek truly unforgettable.

Once we reach High Camp, we will have lunch, and the rest of the afternoon will be free for you to either take a short hike or simply relax and acclimatize, preparing for the big day ahead.

Altitude: 3,550m / 11,646 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hour: 2 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From High Camp, we will start early to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500m. After a hearty breakfast, we will steeply ascend towards the viewpoint at 4,200 meters. At the viewpoint, there are a few basic teashops where you can grab hot drinks and quick bites like noodles or ramen. We may stop for a quick tea before continuing towards Mardi Base Camp, which will take another 2 to 2.5 hours. The total walk to Mardi Himal Base Camp will take approximately 4.5 hours.

This is the highlight of our trip—the panoramic view of the mountains and the surrounding landscapes is absolutely phenomenal. We will spend some time at the base camp to take in the serenity and the breathtaking views.

Afterward, we will descend back to High Camp for lunch. Post-lunch, we will continue our descent to Low Camp for an overnight stay.

Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,763 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Hour: 8/9 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From Low Camp, we will take a different trail leading down to Sidhing Village. Parts of the trail can be quite steep and rocky, so make sure to watch your footing. There are also some slippery sections along the way.

For about 3 hours, we’ll trek through a peaceful, lush forest trail surrounded by green trees and bushes. When we finally reach Sidhing, take a moment to admire the small, traditional houses and the calm, slower pace of life here. After a refreshing break, we’ll enjoy hot tea and lunch in this tranquil Gurung settlement.

Even during peak tourist seasons, Sidhing, a traditional Gurung village, remains relatively quiet and maintains a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere. After lunch, we’ll take a scenic 3-hour drive back to Pokhara.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, your Trek Leader will arrange side excursions such as boating or hiking up to the Peace Pagoda. Alternatively, you can simply relax, indulge in a spa session, or enjoy shopping at the local stalls in the Lake City.

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Walking Hour: 4/5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Transport: PRIVATE VEHICLE

We will take an early morning, thrilling return flight to Kathmandu with breathtaking panoramic views along the way. Upon arrival, a half-day city tour will be organised for you.

Highlights:

  • A sensational flight back to the capital city, Kathmandu, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
  • Half-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Pashupatinath Temple (a sacred Hindu temple) and the Boudhanath Stupa (a significant Buddhist shrine).
  • Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Accommodation: Hotel
Walking Hour: 25 min FLIGHT
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 200 km
Transport: MOUNTAIN FLIGHT

Where will your next adventure take you?

Congratulations on completing an unforgettable trek! As you bid farewell to the breathtaking trails and cherished memories, we wish you a safe journey home. May the mountains call you back for another adventure soon. Until we meet again!

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Cost Details
Includes
  • PERMITS: All essential permits required to trek in the region.
  • DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Domestic flight from KATHMANDU/POKHARA and POKHARA/KATHMANDU.
  • PICKUP AND DROPS: Airport pickup and drop facilities on both domestic and international flights are included.
  • ACCOMMODATION: Twin bed sharing hotel accommodation in KATHMANDU and POKHARA on a Bed/Breakfast basis.
  • WELCOME DINNER: Welcome dinner in a typical traditional Nepali restaurant with cultural show(Beverages not included)
  • SIGHTSEEING: Half-day guided city sightseeing to two most sacred World Heritage Sites with a paid entrance fee.
  • TAXES: All government and local tax as per the trek requirement.
  • GROUND TRANSPORTATION: All ground transportation to and from the preferred destination as per the itinerary- private vehicle.
  • STAFF TRANSPORTATION: All ground transportation for all staff as required.
  • EQUIPMENT: Fundamental trekking gear like a sleeping bag with fleece liners, Down jacket, trekking poles, etc.
  • LODGING: Local Tea-house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis – A single supplement is provided on request over minimal cost, however, depends solely on availability.
  • DRINKING WATER: For group size over 2 pax. Properly boiled hot water for drinking is provided every evening – so it’s wise to have bottles equivalent to 3 liters or bottles along with a rehydration bag (camel bag). 
  • FOOD: All meals (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast with a cup of hot beverage) during the trek.
  • TREK LEADER: An accomplished Trekking Group Leader (Legitimate Guiding License Holder) and assistant guide.
  • STAFF INSURANCE & ALLOWANCES: All ground staff and their allowances + their insurance.
  • SAFETY CONCERNS: An all-inclusive comprehensive medical kit on all trips.
  • COMPLIMENTARY TAKE AWAY: Take away the Mystical Nepal Treks duffel bag, T-shirt and trekking map.
Excludes
  • NEPAL VISA: A fee of $50 that is levied on a 30-day Nepali visa.
  • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: The cost of all international flights.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES: All personal expenses that may include Nepalese SIM card, internet, battery charging, hot shower, laundry, fizzy drinks, alcohol, etc.
  • EMERGENCY: A medical examination of any kind, high altitude evacuation under any circumstances, air evacuation, and rescues.
  • DONATIONS: Donations of any kind.
  • STAFF TIPPING: Tipping the trekking crew is an expected custon in Nepal..
  • EXTRA NIGHTS: Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu on early arrival or late departure.
  • SANCTIONS: Permits or the letter of authorization that is required for special filming, big drones, and filming cameras.
  • INSURANCE: All-inclusive travel or medical insurance is a must.
  • EXTRA PORTER: Upon request, extra porter or assistant is provided, which may include the cost of $25 per day.
  • OPTIONAL TOURS: Optional tours and sightseeing or any activities during free time.
Essential Information

Travel Smart: Secure Your Journey With Insurance:

The Mardi Himal Trek takes you deep into the Himalayas, far from any established town or city. Since walking is the only way of traveling in this remote region, you won’t be able to leave the area quickly incase of an emergency . This makes travel insurance with helicopter evacuation a necessary backup. It can save you a significant amount of money and ensure that you receive prompt rescue services if needed.

We also highly recommend combining medical coverage and loss of personal belongings with your travel insurance. This way, you’ll be fully protected throughout your trek. Whether you're a beginner or trekking with your family, having comprehensive insurance will give you peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the scenery, wilderness, and the beauty of the Mardi Himal without worrying about unexpected issues.

The Mardi Himal trek in Nepal is a moderate challenge due to its offbeat location, varying terrain, and limited tourist infrastructure. Like other circuit treks in Nepal, this route takes you through beautiful landscapes, but the Mardi Himal trek is less crowded, giving you a more peaceful experience in the Himalayas.

To reach the summit of Mardi Himal, trekkers will pass through dense forests, rocky paths, and moraine areas. As you ascend, the climate and surroundings will change, so trekkers must be well-prepared and flexible. Your fitness level, determination, and mindset will play an important role in how enjoyable your trek is.

Daily Walking & Distance

Trek Information

Trek Distance: The total distance of the Mardi Himal trek is around 55 kilometers. You will trek about 9 to 11 kilometers daily as you ascend towards the summit, and then the route will descend as you make your way back.

Daily Walking Hours: Expect to walk for about 6 to 7 hours each day along the trail.

Accommodation & Food: Rest & Refuel During Trek

On the Mardi Himal trek in Nepal, there are tea houses available along the trail. These tea houses are small, simple establishments offering shared rooms and washrooms. They also provide meals and services such as charging, Wi-Fi, and Hot showers at an additional cost. 

However, additional service expenses are not included in the package cost, so trekkers should budget around USD 15 to USD 20 for each day to cover these extra services. The rooms are basic, but we will try our best to book the best possible accommodation, including private washrooms where available. Please note that single rooms may cost extra money.

At certain places like High Camp, you may not get a single room. The common foods available during the trek will include dal bhat tarkari (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), porridge, and Tibetan bread. In some places, you can also find pasta, fried rice, stew, curries, French fries, burgers, and other snacks.

Additional Information

Drinking Water: Boiled water is provided every evening by our staff inclusive.  Bring camel bag, its good to keep hydrated. While on the walk if you run short of water you can also use water purification tablets to ensure the water is safe to drink.

Snacks: It's a good idea to buy snacks, nuts, energy bars, and other supplies in Kathmandu before starting the trek, as they may be more expensive along the trail.

FAQs

Definitely! Our airport representative or your group Leader will be there catering you from day of your arrival till departure. Do check for MNT clip board on your arrival in Kathmandu airport outside the arrival terminal hall. Make sure you have provided your flight details to us in advance.

Yes, you can obtain Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. In fact for some countries Nepal visa is to be prearranged from their country itself prior to their entry to Nepal. For more details please check Nepal Visa  and Entry Procedure in our website.

As for the level of fitness and trek preparation we suggest that trekking in Nepal mountains is not appropriate for someone with very weak ankles, knee, heart or lungs problems and for all these your doctor’s advice is obligatory. But even the kids of early age to the adults of 70 plus have walked to varied landscapes of Nepal. However Mystical Nepal Treks designed itinerary are flexible and attainable. Nevertheless trekking is not a walk in the park, it includes tremendous amount of ups and downs so to prepare for any trips in Nepal you need to train yourself with the everyday undulating walking with the amount of weight you could carry in your daypack.

All  our trip itinerary have an arrival and departure day from Kathmandu so you can arrive and leave Kathmandu as per the program. You are also welcome and encouraged to arrive a day earlier or leave Nepal a day later to have a look around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley. Mystical Nepal Treks will help arrange any extra activities as per your interest outside the main package.

10 Days
Price from US$970US$975(All-Inclusive Price)
Group Discount Price
2 - 3 Person
US$970
4 - 6 Person
US$930
7 - 10 Person
US$880
11 - 15 Person
US$800
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