Mardi Himal
Region: Mardi Region
Region
Mardi RegionDuration
14 DaysAccomodation
Hotel/LodgeTrek Style
N/AMax Elevation
4,500mTrek difficulty
N/AGroup size
N/ABest months
N/ATrip starts/Ends
KathmanduOverview
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for trekkers. Here is a detailed overview of the Mardi Himal Trek:
Scenic Beauty:
The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, charming traditional villages, and high alpine meadows. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, including the Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal.
Trail and Difficulty:
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek suitable for trekkers with a basic level of fitness. The trail follows a well-defined path, and although there are some steep ascents and descents, it does not involve technical climbing. The highest point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters.
Cultural Experience:
The trek offers opportunities to interact with local communities and experience the unique culture of the region. Along the trail, you will come across Gurung and Magar villages, where you can witness their traditional lifestyle, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage.
Mardi Himal Base Camp:
The highlight of the trek is reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp. From here, you can enjoy stunning close-up views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and other surrounding peaks. The sunrise and sunset views from the base camp are truly spectacular.
Off the Beaten Path:
Compared to popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, the Mardi Himal Trek offers a quieter and less crowded experience. You will encounter fewer trekkers on the trail, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness.
Chitwan National Park Extension:
Many trekkers choose to combine the Mardi Himal Trek with a visit to Chitwan National Park. Located in the southern lowlands of Nepal, Chitwan is renowned for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. Activities in Chitwan include jungle safaris, elephant rides, bird-watching, canoeing, and cultural experiences with the local Tharu community.
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek is a captivating journey that combines stunning mountain vistas, cultural encounters, and a chance to explore the diverse ecosystems of Nepal. It offers a wonderful alternative to more popular treks, allowing trekkers to enjoy a more serene and intimate experience in the Himalayas.
Itinerary
Day 1
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu (at an altitude of 1,300 meters), you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel. After the long journey, you will have private time to rest and freshen up.
Day 2
Today, you will embark on a sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. The tour includes visits to the Monkey Temple (Swyambhunath Temple) and the Great Boudhanath Stupa, both significant Buddhist sites. This will provide you with an introduction to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Nepal. In addition, you will receive an orientation for your upcoming trekking adventure.
Day 3
After a scenic flight to Pokhara, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, you will drive for about an hour to reach Kande, the starting point of your trek. From there, you will begin your trek towards Deurali. The first part of the trek takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests, passing by Australian Camp, a picturesque viewpoint. Continuing on, you will reach Pothana and, after approximately two hours of walking, arrive at Deurali.
Day 4
Today’s trek will take you from Deurali to Low Camp (2,985 meters). After about four hours of trekking, you will stop for lunch at Forest Camp (2,600 meters). The trail offers stunning views and takes approximately seven hours to reach Low Camp. You will spend the night at a lodge in Low Camp.
Day 5
Leaving Low Camp, the trail ascends above the tree line and offers magnificent views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. If you’re lucky, you may also spot the Daphne pheasant, which is the national bird of Nepal. The teahouses at High Camp provide simple accommodation and have Wi-Fi available. From High Camp, you can enjoy a magical view of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
Day 6
This day begins with an early morning wake-up call to witness the sunrise over the mountains. You will hike through narrow paths until reaching the Upper Viewpoint, where you can admire Mardi Himal, Machapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I, Baraha Shikhar (Annapurna Fang), Tent Peak, Singhuchuli, and more. After reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp, you will retrace your steps back to High Camp. After lunch at High Camp, you will hike to Badal Danda/Forest Camp.
Day 7
Descending from Badal Danda, you will enjoy a beautiful walk with panoramic mountain views. Landruk is a sizable village located on the way to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). You will spend the night in Landruk.
Day 8
Today, you will reach Ghandruk, a Gurung (Gorkha) cultural village, during lunchtime. After lunch, you will have the opportunity to explore this fascinating settlement. Ghandruk is known for its rich cultural heritage. Overnight stay in Ghandruk.
Day 9
After breakfast in Ghandruk, you will trek to Nayapool. The trail offers beautiful views of rice fields, terraces, and lush vegetation with diverse flora and fauna. Upon reaching Nayapool, you will drive for approximately one and a half hours to Pokhara. In the afternoon, you can enjoy sightseeing around the lakeside area of Pokhara, particularly the serene Fewa Lake. Optional activities like paragliding in Sarangkot are also available.
Day 10-12
After breakfast in Pokhara, you will embark on a five-hour drive to Chitwan National Park. Over the next two days, you will engage in various activities within the park. These activities may include an elephant back ride, canoe ride, Tharu cultural dance, visit to the Elephant Breeding Centre (EBC), short jungle walk, and a sightseeing tour along the Rapti River. Chitwan National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and offers opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Day 13
You will take a scenic flight from Chitwan to Kathmandu, allowing you to enjoy aerial views of the landscape. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can spend the remaining time exploring the city or relaxing.
Day 14
This marks the end of your itinerary. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Please note that the departure time will depend on your flight schedule.
What's Included
- Meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast, and bed tea/coffee) throughout the entire trek
- Accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu for three nights
- All-inclusive package in Chitwan National Park, including accommodation, meals, programs, guides, and fees
- Transportation for the entire trip, including airport transfers
- Trekking and tour guide, as well as porters
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) and permits for trekking, and national park fees
- Kathmandu sightseeing, including entry fees and a guide
What's Excluded
- Beverages such as bottled water, Coke, and beer
- Battery charging and hot showers during the trek
- International air tickets
- Tips for guides and porters
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
- Expenses for any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
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