Mardi Himal Trek is an easy yet adventurous trekking trail in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek takes you to the east of Annapurna range and Mt. Machhapuchhre (6997m). This trek is fairly popular because it takes a short time and you can experience the Gurung culture as well. Likewise, the trek offers amazing views of the mountains in Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges.
The trip starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The next day, you drive to Phedi and then start your trek to Pothana. Further, you trek to forest camp at Kokar via Deurali. You can relish the views of the Machhapuchhre (6997m) and Mardi Himal (5553m) on the trek. Then, you head to Low camp and trek further north towards the High Camp. Finally, you trek to the Mardi Himal Base Camp on the next day. Here, you can enjoy the views of Annapurna South (7219m), Machhapuchhre (6997m), and Annapurna I (8091m). Furthermore, you descend to Siding village and enjoy the Gurung culture and lifestyle.
Pick up from Airport and Transfer to the hotel.
Your arrival in Kathmandu will be marked by landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A company representative of Himalayan Adventure Treks & Tours will receive you and transfer you to your hotel. Evening you can meet the participants and the trek members. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today marks the start of your journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a picturesque city nestled amidst the Himalayas. The scenic drive spans approximately 6-7 hours, covering around 200 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes. As you traverse from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the route unfolds with panoramic vistas of verdant countryside, terraced fields, and quaint villages. Along the way, you'll encounter charming towns, offering delightful opportunities to pause, stretch your legs, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Pokhara, renowned for its natural splendor, beckons with its majestic Himalayan peaks, serene lakes, and verdant surroundings. This enchanting city boasts a myriad of outdoor adventures, from trekking and rafting to paragliding and more. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you'll check into your hotel, where you can unwind and rejuvenate. The evening invites exploration of Pokhara's cultural gems, including temples, palaces, and bustling markets.
To start your journey, you'll drive from Pokhara (altitude 2,690 feet or 822 meters) to Kande, located at an altitude of approximately 5,740 feet (1,750 meters). This drive usually takes around 1.5 hours, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and glimpses of the Annapurna range. From Kande, your trek to Pitam Deurali begins, which is around 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) and takes 3-4 hours of moderate hiking. The trail ascends gradually, leading you through dense forests and occasional clearings that open up to breathtaking mountain vistas. As you climb, the elevation increases to around 6,890 feet (2,100 meters) by the time you reach Pitam Deurali. This scenic trek offers a great introduction to the Annapurna region, blending rich biodiversity with views of peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Remember to hydrate, as the altitude gain is noticeable, and enjoy the captivating panoramas, which are a highlight of this section of the Annapurna trail.
Starting from Pitam Deurali at an altitude of approximately 6,890 feet (2,100 meters), you’ll embark on a scenic trek to Forest Camp, which sits at around 8,202 feet (2,500 meters). This trek covers about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) and usually takes 5-6 hours, as the trail steadily ascends through lush rhododendron and oak forests, typical of the Annapurna region. The path is quiet and remote, offering trekkers a chance to immerse themselves in nature and experience the rich biodiversity. As you make your way, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, and occasional clearings provide breathtaking glimpses of peaks like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. The trail can be steep and narrow in parts, demanding a moderate level of endurance and careful footing. Forest Camp, locally known as "Kokar," is a peaceful spot with basic lodges, providing a cozy resting point amid dense woodlands.
From Kokar Forest Camp, sitting at an elevation of 8,202 feet (2,500 meters), the trek to High Camp takes you to an altitude of around 11,800 feet (3,600 meters). This leg of the journey covers approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) and takes 5-6 hours, with the trail becoming steeper and more challenging as you climb higher into the alpine zone. You’ll move through dense forests of rhododendron and oak initially, which eventually thin out into more rugged landscapes with dwarf bamboo and juniper as you gain altitude. Along the way, occasional clearings offer awe-inspiring views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, and the Annapurna South, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramas that grow more dramatic with every step. The higher altitude and thinning air make this part of the trek more strenuous, so it’s important to pace yourself and stay hydrated to adjust to the elevation.
The trek from High Camp (11,800 feet or 3,600 meters) to Mardi Himal Base Camp (MHBC), at an altitude of 14,600 feet (4,450 meters), is a challenging yet exhilarating journey. This excursion covers about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) one way and typically takes 3-4 hours to reach the base camp. The trail ascends steeply over rugged terrain, transitioning from grassy alpine meadows to rocky paths that lead you close to the snowline, with sweeping views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the striking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) just in front.
Starting from Badal Danda, located at an altitude of around 10,500 feet (3,200 meters), the trek down to Siding village (5,250 feet or 1,600 meters) involves a descent of about 4,920 feet (1,500 meters). This trek takes approximately 4-5 hours and covers around 4.3 miles (7 kilometers). The trail is mostly downhill and leads you through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and charming traditional villages, offering a scenic end to your journey in the Annapurna region.
The drive from Pokhara, situated at an altitude of about 2,690 feet (822 meters), to Kathmandu, at 4,600 feet (1,400 meters), takes approximately 6-8 hours, covering a distance of around 125 miles (200 kilometers). The journey along the Prithvi Highway offers scenic views of lush valleys, terraced fields, rivers, and occasional glimpses of the Himalayas, making it a visually enriching experience.
On your departure day, a representative from Himalayan Adventure Treks and Tours will accompany you to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight. This thoughtful gesture allows ample time for airport procedures, such as check-in and security clearance, as well as any last-minute arrangements or inquiries you may have. As you bid farewell to Nepal, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and memories forged during your journey. Whether you're returning home or embarking on another adventure, Nepal's allure and beauty are sure to linger in your heart and mind.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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