Mardi Himal is one of the most beautiful and less jammed trekking routes in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The narrow, winding trails through dense rhododendron forests give a vibrant atmosphere and become more colorful during the time of blossoming. The dramatic change from lush forests to a high-altitude rugged environment brings about a very stunning contrast, making the adventure quite exciting.

It is a trek with something of a spectacle: panoramic views of several iconic peaks, including Mardi Himal, Machapuchare-popularly known as Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. For all basic purposes, these mountains dominate the skyline, providing stunning scenery at each turn in the journey.

From High Camp, you can make a 3-4-hour ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp. Though this climb is steep and demanding, the close-up views it offers on the whole Annapurna Range make it simply spectacular. It’s a great hike for those who want to see some of the best of Nepal without the crowds of trekkers along the Annapurna Circuit.

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Overview

The Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal’s famous Annapurna region is somewhat offbeat, promising to be an intimate experience for any trekker away from the hoards of people that throng more popular routes elsewhere in this area.

The Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent choice for those looking to experience the majestic Himalayas without the crowds, while still enjoying the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal.

Highlights

Panoramic Views: The trek provides vistas of the iconic Himalayan peaks that include Mardi Himal, Machapuchare commonly known as Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
Diverse Landscapes: The trekking route goes through lush forests of rhododendron, alpine meadows, and high-altitude landscape, therefore, is varied in nature.
Less Crowded: Compared to the popular Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks, Mardi Himal is less frequented, allowing for a more serene trekking experience.
Unspoiled Nature: The route is relatively new and less commercialized, preserving the natural beauty and tranquility of the region.
Local Villages: The trek passes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, where you can experience the local culture and hospitality.
Teahouses: Stay in cozy teahouses run by locals, offering a chance to interact with the community and enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine.
Accessible for Many: The trek is considered moderately difficult, making it accessible to a wide range of trekkers, including those with some experience in high-altitude trekking.
hort Duration: It typically takes 4-5 days to complete, making it a great option for trekkers with limited time.
Mardi Himal Base Camp: The final destination of the trek offers close-up views of Mardi Himal and surrounding peaks, often with fewer people around, making it a perfect spot for reflection and photography.
Rich Biodiversity: The region is home to various species of birds, butterflies, and animals, adding to the richness of the trekking experience.

Day 1 :

Drive from Pokhara to Kande and Walk to Pothana (1890m.) via Australian Camp (2150 m.) 4 hrs.

Drive from Pokhara to Kande: about 1.5 hours, then trek uphill to Australian Camp. Really enjoy the scenery and the first views of the Annapurna range.
Lunch: Stop for lunch at Australian Camp and enjoy the surrounding beauties.
Continue towards Deurali, a quiet town along the forest trail, with few trekkers and great views. Arrive at Pothana, from where you get the stunning panoramic views of Mt. Fishtail-Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.
Overnight: Stay overnight at teahouse in Pothana.

Day 2 :

Pothana to Forest Camp (2460 m.)

Trek Start: Start trekking from the previous day's location and proceed towards Forest Camp (Kokar).
Overview: This will be a ridge trail with great views down to the Modi Khola Valley to your left and the Mardi Khola to your right.
Scenic View: Closer view of Mt. Fishtail-Machapuchare and Mardi Himal while gaining height. The trail is less crowded; therefore, it's more peaceful to trek.
Environment: the path goes through forests of rhododendrons and pines; in spring, at the time of the blossoming of rhododendron, it is particularly good.
Overnight in Forest Camp: Reaching Forest Camp at Kokar by the end of the day. Accommodation: Homestay, giving a real taste of local life.

Day 3 :

Forest Camp to High Camp (3600 m.)

Early Morning: Start early from the previous night's stop, Forest Camp to High Camp. Since most of the trekking is done during the early morning hours, it gives an opportunity to make the best out of the cool temperatures during these hours of the day.
Forest Trek: The route goes upwards through the dense rhododendron forest. A silent, mysterious forest track with flowers sprinkled as colour bursts, especially during spring, against green surroundings.
Lunch at Low Camp: You will make a stop at Low Camp for your lunch. The view of Mt. Machhapuchhchhre also known as Fishtail, seen above the valley from here.
High Camp Continue: After having lunch, start the ascend further. As the forest ends, the landscape changes gradually into more open and rugged terrain with expansive views of the Annapurna range.
Arrival to High Camp: Reach High Camp in the afternoon. The High Camp at about 3,580 meters is a spot that provides great views of the peaks surrounding it, including Mardi Himal, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhchhre.
High Camp Overnight: Get into a guest house and try to rest there. Take a warm meal, as usually the next day is reserved for hiking to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Day 4 :

Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp Upper View Point (4200 m.) and back to Lower camp (3050 m.). 5 hrs.

Early Morning: Start your early morning trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp or Upper View Point.
The trail is all the time up; rocky trails, occasionally with snow. Panoramic views of the Annapurna Sanctuary: Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machapuchchhre-Fishtail, among other peaks.
Use the Base Camp or Upper View Point and enjoy the wild scenery. It's the perfect view point for your cameras and enjoying the himalayan wilderness. After viewing the surrounding areas commence on a downhill journey back to the High Camp and further down to Low Camp. Arrive at Low Camp. Overnight at tented camp. Rest and recover from the day's trek.

Day 5 :

Low Camp to Sidhing Village (1700 m.) 6-7 hrs and drive back to Pokhara.

Have an early breakfast in preparation for your descent to Low Camp. The trail now descends more gradually downwards through thick rhododendron and oak forests-the perfect setting to see some wildlife, which includes:
Himalayan Langoor: These monkeys are a familiar sight on the treetops as they spring along branch to branch.
Barking deer are small, secretive deer, seldom seen but rather heard through the barking call it makes when alarmed.
Black Bear: Rarely seen, they are forest dwellers, and more or less shy.
Pheasants: You will see various species of pheasants-the Danphe, also known as the Himalayan Monal and the national bird of Nepal, and other colorful varieties.
As you go down further, the scenery changes from alpine meadows to more temperate forests until finally reaching Siddhing Village. This traditional Gurung village is not really touristy, and the setting is ideal to take some rest after the whole day's trek. Later, drive to Pokhara.

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Mardi Himal Trek

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