Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek-7 Days

Quick Overview
Duration7 Days
Trip GradeStrenuous
CountryNepal
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeSep to Nov and Mar to May

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is the most favorable trek for physically fit persons with limited time who want to explore Nepal's best-kept secret in the Annapurna region, untamed ridgeline paths, unspoiled wilderness, and personal mountain experiences away from busy routes.

Highlights

  • Reach the base camp of Mardi Himal (4,500m) for a higher-altitude journey
  • Spectacular close-up views of Machhapuchhre's East Face (impossible to see from other treks)
  • The fast-flowing river of Nepal, the Trishuli River, and adventurous Rafting.
  • Pristine ridge-line trekking through untouched wilderness
  • Traditional Magar and Gurung villages in authentic settings
  • The Hidden Sanctuary—Mardi Himal's secret amphitheater
  • Panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Tent Peak, and Mardi Himal itself
  • Unique forest camping experience at High Camp

Mardi Himal Base Camp 7-Day Trek Overview

The 5-day Mardi Himal Base Camp Short Trek takes you into Nepal's hidden sanctuary in the eastern flanks of the Annapurna region. At 4,500 meters, Mardi Himal Base Camp offers an exclusive 270-degree amphitheater view of towering peaks, including the rarely seen East Face of Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Mardi Himal (5,587m), Annapurna South, and Tent Peak. Unlike other base camps, Mardi Himal Base Camp sits on a dramatic ridge, offering unique perspectives impossible to experience elsewhere, creating an intimate encounter with the Himalayas.
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Short Trek follows pristine ridgeline trails through virgin forests and meadows, making it one of the most serene and exclusive Himalayan adventures. This hidden route allows you to experience Nepal's untouched wilderness while avoiding crowded main trails, offering solitude and authentic mountain experiences in just five days.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The next day, a short drive to Kande (1,770m), then immediately ascends through traditional Magar villages toward Australian Base Camp. Unlike other treks that follow valley floors, this route climbs directly up forested ridges, providing constantly changing perspectives of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail passes through Pothana and Pitam Deurali, offering glimpses of rural Nepalese life in authentic mountain communities.

As you ascend toward Forest Camp and Low Camp, the landscape transforms from subtropical forests to alpine rhododendron and oak forests. The trail becomes increasingly wild and remote, with fewer teahouses and more camping-style accommodations. You'll experience the thrill of ridge-walking with dramatic drop-offs on both sides, creating an adventurous mountain atmosphere.

The approach to High Camp (3,580m) reveals the trek's unique character—perched on a narrow ridge with 360-degree mountain views. From here, the final ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) involves climbing through alpine meadows and rocky terrain to reach a spectacular viewing platform directly facing Machhapuchhre's imposing East Face—a view exclusive to this route.

After reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp, you will spend time marveling at the intimate mountain amphitheater and spend a night at High Camp under pristine Himalayan skies. The return journey follows the same ridge-line route but offers completely different perspectives, with morning light transforming the mountain landscapes. This efficiently paced trek maximizes time in the high mountains while providing an authentic wilderness experience away from commercial trekking routes.

Reminder

For a smooth and stress-free start, we highly recommend arriving in Kathmandu by 4 PM the day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final gear check, a trip briefing with your guide, and to make sure you have everything you need before heading to the trek.

Online briefing

This online meeting is similar to having our first coffee together before the trip! This online meeting is our chance to show you everything that will happen on the trip. We'll talk about everything from what gear to bring to what each day on the route will be like and how it will feel, and we'll answer any questions you have. After you book, we'll send you an email with a couple of times when we can talk. We'll set up our pre-adventure meeting as soon as you submit the papers we need. Also, our trek itinerary does not include your hotel stay in Kathmandu. So, while in the online meeting, please let us know your preferences, budget, and standard of the hotel you would like to stay in Kathmandu. We will arrange it for you accordingly.

Note to Hikers

Experience the Himalayas on your terms. We create personal, intimate treks for groups of two or more. Whether you select our Budget, Standard, or Luxury package, your adventure will be exclusively for you and your companions, ensuring a comfortable and personal journey from start to finish.

Short Itinerary
Day 01: The Drive starts with a 210 km journey from Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) to Pokhara (820 m/2,690 ft), usually taking around 7-8 hours, with a total elevation change of -580m (1,902 ft).
Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
Day 02: Morning starts with a 30 km drive from Pokhara to Kande (1,770m / 5,807ft) and a trek of 9 km for 4-5 hours to reach Forest Camp (2,600m / 8,530ft), with a total elevation change of 830m (2723 ft).
Max Altitude: 2,600m / 8,530ft
Day 03: Start with a 7 km hike from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,600m / 11,808ft), usually around 5-6 hours with a total elevation of 1,000 m 3,280 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,600m / 11,808ft
Day 04: Morning Trek starts with an 8 km round trip from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m / 14,764ft) and returns to High Camp, with a total elevation change of 900m (2,952 ft).
Max Altitude: 4,500m / 14,764ft
Day 05: Start with a lengthy day with a 14 km trek from High Camp to Sidding (1,750m / 5,740ft), usually takes around 6-7 hours with a total elevation of -1850m (-6,070 ft).
Max Altitude: 1,750m / 5,740ft
Day 06: A drive starts with a 70 km journey from Siding to Pokhara (820 m/2690 ft), which usually takes around 3-4 hours, with a total elevation change of -930m (-3,051 ft).
Max Altitude: 820 m/2690 ft
Day 07: The Drive starts with a 210 km journey from Pokhara (820m/2,690ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft), usually taking around 7-8 hours, with a total elevation change of 580m (1902 ft).
Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
Expand
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01:

The drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Pokhara (820m) takes 7–8 hours via the curving Prithvi Highway and includes 210 kilometers of Nepal's diverse nature.  As we go down, you'll see terraced fields, rural communities, and green hillsides, and you'll also be able to see the Himalayan foothills in the distance.

This beautiful road takes you from the busy metropolis to the lakeside setting of Pokhara. The long trip shows off the natural beauty and cultural rhythm of central Nepal. As you get closer to Pokhara, you'll see the majestic Annapurna range, which is a great way to get ready for trekking.  Bring some small snacks and be ready to stop for tea and pictures now and then.
Advice:
*  If the weather is good, choose a window seat to see the mountains.
*  If you need to save time, think about taking a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (25 minutes).

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 210 kmElevation: 580m / 1,902 ft
Day 02:

Start our day with a beautiful journey from Pokhara (820m) to Kande (1,770m) that takes us down narrow roads with terraced farmland and views of the Annapurna range. Our trek starts in Kande with a steep climb through beautiful rhododendron forests and remote villages. The path takes us to Australian Camp (2,060m), where we can see the mountains from all sides. This is a great place to take pictures and relax halfway through our adventure.

 As we go on, we'll hike further into peaceful woods and slowly make our way up to Forest Camp (2,600m). This 4–5 hour hike takes you around 9 km and up 830 m, putting us in the middle of peaceful nature. Forest Camp is a calm, simple place to spend the night, surrounded by pine and rhododendron trees. The sounds of the forest and the cool mountain air will set the mood for our trek.

Max Altitude: 2,600m / 8,530ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 4-5 hoursDistance: 30 kmElevation: 830m /2,723 ft
Day 03:

We start our day by slowly climbing toward the wooded area after crossing Forest Camp. As you trek along the path, the rhododendron and pine trees get fewer and fewer, and we start to see stunning mountain views. Low Camp (3,150 m/10,334 ft.) is an important stop on this route. we will take a rest there and enjoy amazing close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range.

After Low Camp, the path narrows and goes up and down steeply on both sides, taking you through rough alpine terrain. The Himalayas seem bigger and closer with every step. When we get to High Camp (3,600m / 11,808ft), you will see everything around you and feel excited about the hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. This lonely and windy place is the perfect place to spend the night in the middle of high-altitude charm.

Max Altitude: 3,600m / 11,808ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 7 kmElevation: 1,000 m /3,280 ft
Day 04:

Start our day before dawn to get the best vistas and enjoy a clear sky. From High Camp (3,600m), the path goes up sharply over rocky, high-alpine terrain to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). This lengthy trek leads to one of Nepal's most beautiful views: a close-up vista of the holy Machapuchare (Fish Tail Mountain), the ice slopes of Mardi Himal, and the steep south face of Annapurna I. At 4,500m, we'll be amazed by the huge mountains that surround us.

After enjoying the permanent natural beauty, slowly retrace your steps back to High Camp. The return journey enables you to re-encounter the landscape's raw beauty from a higher viewpoint.  This day is physically challenging yet highly satisfying, combining high-altitude success with wonderful natural beauty. Proper equipment, a consistent pace, and hydration are crucial for this highest point of the trek.
Recommendation: We will start early to evade afternoon clouds and winds. Use trekking poles for enhanced stability in rugged terrain.

Max Altitude: 4,500m / 14,764ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDistance: 8 kmElevation: 900m (2,952 ft).
Day 05:

This is a lengthy day of descending, going from the high alpine area of High Camp (3,600m) to the mid-elevation settlement of Siding (1,750m).  At first, the trail goes back down the ridge, but then it splits off into a less-traveled road that goes away from the main Mardi Himal route.  After passing through Low Camp, we'll keep going down through peaceful rhododendron and oak forests. The environment will slowly change from rough, high-altitude terrain to lush, green slopes.

We'll travel through remote villages like Kalimati and Ghalel, where you'll see how the Gurung people live every day. This cultural experience makes the trip much more interesting. The long downhill hike might be painful on the knees; thus, it is best to use trekking poles. Reaching Siding is a great place to relax in peace, surrounded by terraced fields and the warmer weather of the lower valley.

Max Altitude: 1,750m / 5,740ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 6-7 hoursDistance: 14 kmElevation: 1850m/6,070 ft
Day 06:

Your day starts with a beautiful journey from the peaceful village of Siding (1,750m) to the lively lakeside city of Pokhara (820m). The route winds through terraced farms, traditional communities, and lush river valleys as it goes into the Himalayas. The air gets warmer and heavier as you go down, which is a relief after spending days at high altitude. The journey gives you one last look at how life is in rural Nepal, with chances to see waterfalls, cross classic bridges, and watch people go about their everyday lives in the towns along the road.

When we get to Pokhara, we'll be welcomed by a relaxing atmosphere and a beautiful view of the Annapurna Range. The city's vibrant lakeside area has pleasant places to stay, cafés, and souvenir stores. It's nice to be back in modern life after our Himalayan experience. 
This journey takes us from the quiet mountains to the busy city, which is the perfect way to be ready to go back to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 820 m/2690 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 70 kmElevation: 930m /3,051 ft
Day 07:

On the last day, we travel back to Kathmandu (1,400m) from Pokhara (820m) along the Prithvi Highway, which goes through the Trishuli and Marsyangdi river basins. As you slowly make your way up to the Kathmandu Valley, you get one last glance at Nepal's beautiful landscapes, which include terraced farmland, busy cities, and wooded hills. The road trip is long, but there are many cultural stops along the way, such as roadside markers, river crossings, and views of daily life in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The conclusion of your Himalayan trip is when you get to Kathmandu. The city's lively energy, old temples, and modern conveniences greet you back. This is a sharp yet interesting contrast to the quiet of the mountains you experienced last week. This drive not only connects two famous cities, but it also gives you time to think about the amazing views, cultural connections, and personal accomplishments you made on your trip.
 Advice:
*  If the weather is good, choose a window seat to see the mountains.
*  If you need to save time, think about taking a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (25 minutes).

Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ftDuration: 7-8 hoursDistance: 210 kmElevation: 580m (1902 ft)
Couldn't find what you're after?Reach out to our travel experts.
Customize Trip

Equipment Lists

Only pack what’s needed for the trek to travel light and comfortably. You can store your excess luggage at The Everest Holiday for free. Porters will carry your main trekking bag, but the weight limit is 10 kg for each trekker. Since one porter carries the luggage for two people, we suggest that you and a trekking partner share one large duffel bag (over 60 Liters).

  • Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
  • Beanie (for warmth)
  • A neck gaiter or buff (for warmth and sun protection)
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
  • Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)

A thick-wool or synthetic pair of moisture-wicking socks

waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and excellent traction

Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)

Gaiters protect

  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
  • Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
  • Fleece jacket and down jacket (Mandatory)
  • Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Raincoat
  • Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear (four)
  • Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • Wear long underwear or thermal leggings when it is cold.
  • Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Medium-sized drying towel
  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
  • The toilet paper is stored in a Ziplock bag.
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Travel-sized shampoo
  • Nail clippers
  • Small mirror
  • A duffel bag with a capacity of over 60 liters is intended for porters, with one duffel bag for every trekker.
  • An individual's daypack or backpack with a 20- or 30-liter capacity should be plenty.
  • Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
  • A two-liter water bladder or bottle (with a protective cover for cold climates)
  • Use water purification methods such as purification tablets, filter bottles, or UV filters.
  • Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
  • A portable charger, spare batteries, or a battery pack
  • Two-pin charging plug
  • Basic first aid supplies include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and Diamox (which is used to prevent or lessen symptoms related to mountain sickness).
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Few passport-size photos
  • Passport photocopies
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars
  • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.)
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention/relief)
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Water purification (tablets, filter bottle, UV filter)
  • Energy bar
  • Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
  • Face wipes
  • An extra pair of batteries
Essential Information

Mardi Himal Trek Package 7 days information

Welcome, Arrival, and Start

When you get to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), our agent will be waiting for you in the arrivals area. They will be carrying a sign with your name on it and will greet you in a loving, traditional way with a marigold garland or a Khada, which is a white ceremonial scarf that stands for respect and good luck. After a short introduction, we will be taken to a private car that will take you to the hotel of your choice in Kathmandu.
Please make sure you get to Kathmandu at least one day before your hike so you can get ready and go over the details. On the first day, we'll go on a tourist bus or in a Private vehicle, according to the Package, and have a beautiful 6–8 hour journey to Pokhara. You can arrange private transportation or flights for an extra fee.

Lodging  

During the journey, you'll stay at a lodge or teahouse for the 6 days. Along the walk, there will be different facilities, such as hot showers, electricity for charging devices, and wifi, but these will cost extra. Please keep in mind that this itinerary does not include lodging in Kathmandu.

Meals 

We provide three standard meals throughout the trek. The menu changes depending on how high you are; at higher altitudes, there will be fewer alternatives. We suggest different teas, garlic soup, and fresh veggies because it's crucial to stay hydrated at high elevations. For your health, we suggest that you stay away from dairy, meat, and drinks that have alcohol or caffeine in them. This bundle does not include hot, cold, or alcoholic drinks.

Baggage

This pack is meant to give you the freedom and comfort you need to go hiking. One Porter serves every two trekkers. Your main luggage should be in a duffel bag that can hold at least 60 liters, and the porter will carry it. This backpack is only big enough to hold 10 kg for each trekker and 20 kg for the porter as a whole. You only need to bring a small daypack with you that has water, a camera, sunscreen, and a warm jacket for the day.

Important Things and Facilities

Water

You can buy a water bottle from shops along the trail or get boiled/filtered water at lodges. It is advised to bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up with boiled water. Avoid drinking untreated tap, well, or river water. For safety, please use a water purifying tablet, or you can buy one in the shops along the trail.

Communication

We will provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and teach you how to get data and recharge cash on it, but mobile signals may be weak at higher altitudes. For your safety, our lead guide keeps daily contact with all trekking teams via mobile. We are fully prepared to handle emergencies, and our guides are trained to assist whenever needed. Additionally, we use walkie-talkies and satellite phones in areas with no network to ensure constant communication. 

Travel Essentials

Visa

Except for citizens of India, all foreigners need a visa to enter Nepal. The Kathmandu International Airport can provide visas upon arrival for most nationalities. You will need a password that is valid for at least 6 months, one passport-sized photo, and cash for the visa fee (US $50 for a 30-day visa).

Travel insurance

Having comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy must cover medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescue up to an altitude of 5,555 meters. Before the trek begins, you will need to provide us with a copy of your insurance policy.

Currency Exchange

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the country's official currency; one US dollar is equivalent to around 130 NPR. In Kathmandu, you may find banks and an approved money exchange center where you can exchange major foreign currencies.  ATMs are widely available to withdraw NPR, but extra service fees may apply. Make sure your notes are new and undamaged, as old or torn bills may be refused. Only the 100 INR note from India is legally accepted in Nepal. Before traveling to trekking regions, it's best to exchange money in Kathmandu, as there are few exchange options in remote areas.

Extra Expense

While our package covers most of your expenses during the trek, you will need to budget for some personal items like meals and accommodation in Kathmandu, visa fees, snacks, hot showers, personal equipment, tips for the crew, etc. We recommend you budget approximately $ 20 USD per day for these personal expenses during the trek.

Trek Season and the Weather

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is open from March to May and September to November, and it is a safe season for trekking. Spring (March–May) is ideal, with clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and views of Mt. Manaslu. Daytime temperatures range from 18 °C to 24 °C, dropping to -4 °C at night. Autumn (September–November) also offers stable weather and beautiful mountain views, with temperatures from 15 to 25°C and nighttime lows around -6 °C. Snow increases from December, making Larkya La Pass difficult to cross.

A Typical Day on the Hike

Around 7 AM, you get a big breakfast to start your day. The normal trekking day lasts 4 to 6 hours, with a lunch break along the way. You can rest or explore in the evenings and then have supper and a briefing on the next day's plans.

Reservations and Rules

Personal trek 

We can only provide a personal trek, so you will only be trekking with your own group. We will never add strangers to your treks. All the treks are customizable per your schedule.

Individual to Group bookings 

Our treks are organized with a minimum of 2 people, so if anyone is alone and does not have a friend or family joining them, we can organize a group trek open for all. If you prefer to join a group, we can also help you connect with other trekkers. Once you confirm, your group trek will be posted on our website, so others can join too. This is our policy to make every trek into your own personal holiday in the Himalaya.

Trust trek booking

The Everest Holiday is a registered and bonded trekking operator, ensuring a secure booking process. We are proudly members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Our Founder, Mr. Ganesh Simkhada, was a former Director of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and former General Secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). To confirm your booking, we require a 10% advance payment. Payment options include the Himalayan Bank online portal (on our website), major credit cards, bank transfers, Wise, and Western Union. After you arrive in Kathmandu, you can pay the remaining balance.  Please send us your important travel documents, such as a passport copy, within one week of booking. Please make sure your passport has a minimum of 6 months of validity remaining at your arrival date in Nepal.

Last-minute booking

We recommend booking your trek in advance. However, we also offer a last-minute booking option, which requires full payment 24 hours before departure. For the last-minute booking, please contact Shreejan (Joe) at +977-9810351300 or email us at info@theeverestholiday.com. Please note that last-minute treks may face delays due to circumstances beyond our control.

Flexible Schedule

Our trip schedule is determined by your travel date, and you can make any changes to it. If our scheduled trek dates don't work for you, please let us know, and we will be happy to arrange a trip according to your time and schedule.

Trip Extension

You can easily extend your stay with other adventures. We can arrange exciting activities for you, such as a jungle safari (Chitwan and Bardiya), Bungee jumping (Pokhara, Everest, Bhote koshi, Kushma), Rafting (Bhote koshi, Trishuli, and Seti river) and kayaking(Trishuli, and Pokhara), paragliding (Pokhara and Kathmandu), zip flying (Kathmandu, Pokhara and Kushma) Canyoning(Pokhara and Sukhuta Beach), Hot ballon (Pokhara), according to your interests. We can also set up sightseeing tours around the Kathmandu Valley if you're interested in culture and history. These tours will take you to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Changunarayan Temple, and Pashupatinath Temple. We suggest a trip to Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, hill stations just outside of Kathmandu, around sunrise for a serene getaway. We can also set up spiritual trips for Buddhists and Hindus that take you to temples, stupas, monasteries, and meditation centers. When you're booking a trip, please have a look at our ADD-ON package for an amazing adventure during the trek.

Ecotourism practices

We ask that you join our eco-friendly hiking practice because we are very dedicated to keeping the Everest region's fragile beauty safe. At the start of our excursion, each person will obtain their own eco-waste bag. Please put all of your rubbish that can't be composted, like snack wrappers, plastic bottles, and batteries, in this bag. Don't leave anything on the trail, please. Instead, take this bag with you as we walk down, and our guides will show you where to find the public trash cans and recycling bins where you can throw it away correctly. We need your help to keep the Himalayas clean and lovely for the next generation.

TEH Family 

We are a family firm that has been in the tourism business in Nepal for three generations. We believe that all of our employees and teams are family. we started as porters and now run an agency. Our professional and experienced guides and Sherpas will be with you the whole time to make sure your trek is safe and memorable. They know how to do first aid in the bush, rock climbing, and how to stay safe in the mountains. They also speak good English. They are from the upper Himalayas, so they know the area well. We take care of their insurance, food, housing, and medical. Please treat our workers like family, and don't hesitate to ask for help or have questions at any time. 

Trip conclusion 

Farewell Dinner 

We will celebrate our successful trek with a goodbye supper in Kathmandu after the trek. This is a great opportunity to share stories from your adventure and provide us with your feedback. We will also present you with a certificate of achievement to recognize your incredible accomplishment. 

Departure 

To arrange your airport transfer, please let us know your hotel name, room number, and flight departure details. We will take you from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport so you may catch your trip home. We sincerely hope you had an amazing journey and hope to see you again soon for another trip in Nepal. 

Tipping culture 

A common way to say thank you for good service is to give a tip. You don't have to provide tips, but it's a good idea to do so at the end of the trek, and it's ideal to give them as a collective gift. The tip should be based on the service, travel time, and cost.

FAQs

How long is the Mardi Himal Trek, and what is the total distance covered?
The 7-day trek covers approximately 50–60 km (31–37 miles), with daily walking ranging from 4 to 6 hours. It’s a shorter, more focused trek compared to other Annapurna routes.

What is the maximum altitude reached, and how challenging is the trek?
The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m/14,765 ft). The trek is moderate, with steep sections between High Camp and Base Camp. It’s suitable for beginners with good fitness.

Is this trek suitable for solo trekkers or first-timers?
Yes! Its shorter duration and well-marked trails make it ideal for solo trekkers and first-timers. A guide is recommended for navigation and cultural insights.

What kind of physical fitness is required?
Good general fitness is sufficient. Prepare with regular hiking, stair climbing, and cardio exercises. No technical skills are needed.

How can I prepare for altitude?
The risk of AMS is low, but acclimatization is built into the itinerary. Stay hydrated and ascend slowly, especially beyond High Camp.

Are there age restrictions?
Suitable for ages 5–75 with average fitness. Families with active children have completed this trek successfully.

What permits are required?
Only the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card are required.

Where are permits checked?
Checkpoints are located at Dhampus or Pothana. Your guide will handle the formalities.

Are special permits needed for Mardi Himal Base Camp?
No additional permits are required.

What altitude coverage is needed for insurance?
Ensure coverage up to 5,000 meters, including helicopter evacuation.

What visa duration is recommended?
A 15–30 day tourist visa is sufficient. Obtain it on arrival in Kathmandu.

Is helicopter evacuation coverage necessary?
Yes, due to remote trail sections and variable weather.

 Are guides necessary for Mardi Himal?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended for route-finding, accommodation bookings, and cultural interaction.

What support is provided?
Guides assist with teahouse bookings, meals, and pacing. Porters can be arranged to carry luggage.

Are guides trained for emergencies?
Yes, licensed guides carry first-aid kits and are trained in altitude safety.

What is accommodation like on the trek?
Teahouses are basic but cozy. Rooms are twin-share with shared toilets. Facilities become simpler at High Camp and Base Camp.

Can I charge electronic devices?
Charging is available at lower camps (sometimes for a fee). Beyond Low Camp, solar charging is limited. Carry a power bank.

Is Wi-Fi or a mobile network available?
Limited mobile networks (Ncell/NTC) are available until Low Camp. Limited Wi-Fi on the trail.

What food is available?
Menus include dal bhat, noodles, soups, and basic Western meals. Food variety decreases at higher camps.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available. Inform your guide in advance of specific needs.

How is drinking water managed?
Bottled water is available at teahouses. Use purification tablets or ask for boiled water to reduce plastic waste.

When is the best time to trek?
The best time to trek is in the spring (March–May) for rhododendron blooms, and in the autumn (September–November) for clear mountain views.

What weather should I expect?
Days are mild (10–15°C), but nights at High Camp can drop below freezing. Rain is common in the monsoon (June–August).

Is winter trekking possible?
Yes, but expect snow and cold temperatures. Trails may be challenging beyond High Camp.

How is altitude sickness managed?
The itinerary includes a gradual ascent. Guides monitor for AMS symptoms. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.

What are the main risks?
Slips on steep trails, weather changes, and minor altitude issues. Trekking poles are recommended.

Is the trail well-marked?
Yes, but fog can reduce visibility. A guide helps with navigation in poor weather.

What gear is essential?
Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, trekking poles, sturdy boots, a sleeping bag (-10°C), and a headlamp.

How to pack light?
Focus on layered clothing. Avoid unnecessary items. Porters can be hired to carry bags.

Can I rent gear in Pokhara?
Yes, trekking gear is readily available for rent in Pokhara.

How far in advance should I book?
1–2 months in advance for peak seasons. Last-minute bookings are possible but less flexible.

What’s included in the cost?
Permits, guide services, teahouse accommodation, and meals. Excludes drinks, tips, and personal expenses.

What payment methods are accepted?
Cash (USD/NPR), bank transfers, or credit cards. Carry Nepali rupees for the trek.

How do we reach the starting point?
Drive from Pokhara to Kande (1.5 hours). Public transport or private jeeps are available.

How does the trek end?
The trek ends at Siding or Lwang village. Return to Pokhara by jeep (3–4 hours) and the next day back to Kathmandu.

Is there flight access to the trailhead?
No flights are involved. The trek starts and ends with road transport from Pokhara.