Mardi Himal Trek

Best time for 3 days of Mardi Himal Trek

The best times for a 3-day Mardi Himal Trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). This is considered to be a favorable time to embark on this journey by monitoring factors like climatic conditions, trails, and trekking hours. During this time, the climatic conditions of the region tend to stay stable, and this lets you have a smooth and secure journey. The favorable climatic conditions will present you with a safe journey by alleviating major issues like rainfall, snowfall, windstorms, slippery tracks, and extreme coldness.

Along with that, this also alleviates the risks of insects on the way and landslides during the journey. As the journey demands ascending in altitude of more than 4000m, it has risks of altitude sickness, and if the body faces climatic challenges along the way, it will hinder the ability of the body to adapt to the changing surroundings. This is why it is important to consider trekking during suitable climatic conditions. The higher altitude region can pose challenges like coldness, which can be alleviated by planning the journey during a suitable time. On top of that, planning the Mardi Trek during Spring and Autumn will let you catch impeccable mountainous views.

A clear day of Spring and Autumn summons breathtaking views of mountainous vistas. You’ll be able to relish the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset view, glancing upon the transparent mountainous vistas. While Spring and Autumn are considered to be the best time for the Mardi Himal Trek, this journey can also be done during Winter (December to February) and Monsoon (June to August). Summer and winter months could be a wonderful choice for you if you want a challenge and are searching for a more daring adventure. While the journey can be made, it is important to be equipped with the necessary trekking gear and clothes to deal with the fluctuating weather conditions during this time.

Major attractions of 3 days Mardi Himal Trek

Breathtaking views

The 3 days Mardi Himal Trek is a unique way to approach the beauty of Mardi Himal through a scenic route. The outstanding journey presents you with the mesmerizing beauty of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, lakes, and the aerial beauty of distinct settlements. With steps forward, the journey wil present you with the stunning beauty of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Mt. Fishtail, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal. The panoramic views of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes instill tranquility within, while you’ll be able to attain peace in the presence of nature itself.

Cultural immersion

The 3 days Mardi Himal Trek offers you a unique opportunity to explore the distinct settlements of the region and immerse yourself in distinct cultures. As you ascend towards the Mardi Himal Viewpoint, the journey will take you through numerous culturally rich places of the Magar and Gurung communities. You’ll pass through culturally rich villages like Dhampus, Pothana, and Sidhing and also catch the stunning beauty of Lwang, Chhomrong, and Ghandruk. You’ll meet locals of this region and they shall welcome you warm-heartedly. The magical journey also presents you with the opportunity to witness rituals, hear captivating folklore, and savor the delectable cuisines of the region.

Camps

This journey takes you through numerous camps along the way. Right after reaching Kande from Pokhara through the drive, you’ll start trekking and rach Dhampus village. From there, you’ll reach Australian Camps, and the route will present you with the beauty of the blooming rhododendrons. Wandering from there through the enchanting forests, you’ll reach forest camp, which will present you with stunning nature’s beauty.

The journey stretches to Low camp through rustling Oak and Pine forests, where you’ll be pleased by the beautiful melodies of songbirds. Then, the journey takes you to High Camp. Perched at the edge of the heavens, High Camp will provide you marvelouis beauty of the Himalayas. While the journey to the High is itself amusing and thrilling, upon reaching there, you’ll be rewarded with stunning Himalayan vistas, sunrise, sunsets, and local exploration.

Sidhing village

You’ll reach Sidhing village on the way of retracing. You’ll descend and reach Sidhing village to catch the drive to Pokhara. You’ll be astonished by the beauty of this region as it encompasses traditional architecture which you can visit. This village also provides you with the panoramic beauty of mountains and lets you immerse in the cultural practices of the region. This is the perfect farewell by Mardi Himal Trek, and by the time you catch the scenic drive through to Pokhara, you’ll be rewarded with personal reflection and a great sense of achievement.

Less crowded

The Mardi Trek is less crowded compared to mainstream trekking sites like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek or Langtang Valley Trek. This creates an excellent opportunity for you to explore the region in peace. With the trails being less traveled by many trekkers' souls, you’ll be presented with the untouched beauty of the region. This also creates space for further local exploration and cultural immersion. You can delve into the beauty of the mountains in a serene and tranquil way. This will allow you to connect to nature deeply and enjoy the beauty of the pristine Himalayan landscapes. On top of that, the journey not being bustling alleviates the competition of acquiring top-notch facilities during your stay.

Who can do this trek?

The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderately challenging journey and can be done by both experienced trekkers and beginners. While the trek can be done at ease without much difficulty, the itinerary is customized and made to complete the entire journey within 3 days. Also, you’ll have to ascend in altitude to reach the Mardi Himal Viewpoint which lies at an altitude of 4200m, and it can be challenging to reach that altitude by navigating the challenging paths.

Taking into account its elevation, some steep pathways, and the presence of teahouses, this walk is entirely doable with the right direction and assistance. Although the tight paths leading from low camp to high camp can be difficult, our knowledgeable guides should be able to navigate the path with ease. While the journey is moderately difficult, it still demands strong physical strength, sheer determination, and mental resilience. You’ll have to undergo physical training exercises to hone your muscles and develop strength and endurance.

Considering lightweight exercises like squats, deadlifts, chin-ups, pull-ups, lateral raises, calf raises and others will help in tuning your muscles and developing sheer strength. Along with that, practicing cardiovascular exercises like running, jogging, swimming, walking, cycling, and others will help in building endurance, which will be helpful during the challenging journey to the lap of the Mardi Himal. Furthermore, stretching exercises and yoga can help in honing the flexibility of your body.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness is the major concern during any high-altitude trekking journey. Though this journey takes you to 4200m in altitude, which is relatively less compared to mainstream trekking journeys like Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek, it still has risks of altitude sickness. Altitude Sickness is also known as acute mountain sickness, and this is caused by the inability of the body to adapt to the changing surroundings. As you ascend higher in altitude, you’ll begin to notice changes in atmospheric pressure and oxygen level. If the body can’t adapt to such changes in surroundings, it has a chance of catching altitude sickness.

The symptoms of altitude sickness can include vomiting, nausea, headache, insomnia, loss of appetite, and loss of coordination. The sickness can range from mild to extreme, and if the conditions reach extreme, it is known as high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). This is why it is important to be mindful of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions regarding it. It is important to stay hydrated during the journey and maintain a steady pace while ascending. Also, carrying diamox along with you is necessary in case you suffer from altitude sickness. If the case worsens, you can always seek emergency helicopter evacuation.

Packing

This is a 3-day trek and within 3 days, you’ll be back to Pokhara by successfully completing the journey and enjoying the magical beauty of Mardi Himal. Even though it is a short trek of about 3 days, it is important to be equipped with the necessary gear and essential clothing. The weather conditions in this region can fluctuate and it is important to pack your bags with both summer and winter clothes. The temperature can fluctuate, and to protect yourself from exposure to UV radiation and from extreme coldness, packing with necessary clothing and equipment is necessary. Here are some ideas on proper packing for the Mardi Himal Trek.

Travel Documents: Valid Visa, Travel Insurance, Passport, Passport sized photos

Upper wear: T-shirts, Full-sleeve t-shirts, fleece jackets, long-sleeve thermal tops, windproof jackets, raincoats, neck gaiter, etc.

Headwear: Hat, Cap, Sunglasses, headband, etc.

Lower wear: Hiking pants, trousers, thermal trousers, trekking shorts, thermal leggings, convertible pants, etc.

Inner wear: Consider bringing enough pairs of moisture-wicking underwear

Footwear: Hiking boots, gaiters, sandals, sports shoes, etc.

Toiletries: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, soap, shampoo, razor, shaving cream, sanitizer, sunscreen, deodorant, lip balm, towel, female hygiene products, face wash, body wash, nail clipper, lotion, mouth wash, etc.

First aid: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, thermometer, diamox, antihistamines, ibuprofen, anti-diarrheal medication, tweezers, blister pads, medical glove, safety pins, insect repellant, etc.

Other essential items: Water bottle, snacks, camera, extra battery, power bank, mobile, compass, map, etc.

Accommodations and Food

The accommodations during the Mardi Himal Trekking are mainly teahouses or lodges. The rooms of these teahouses will provide you with comfortable beds, blankets, and pillows. The rooms have immaculate, blanket-covered seats with an amazing view of the Himalayas. The restrooms and bedrooms are shared by the whole group. Since each room has two beds, you will either need to spend the night in a room with your companions or, if you are trekking alone during the peak season, in a room with a fellow hiker of the same gender.

The teahouses will provide you with safe drinking water and delectable cuisines. You’ll be presented with a menu that consists of varieties of dishes to choose from. The menu will consist of Sel roti, Puri tarkari, Daal Bhat, Soup, Gundruk, Anda Chana, Oats, Muesli, Bread, Butter, Jam, Omelette, Sandwich, Momo, Chowmein, Thukpa, Syabhale, and many more. Nevertheless, you won’t be compromised in providing delicious food and warm nights during your stay at Mardi Himal Trek. Though the region may be remote and the facilities may be basic, you’ll be taken good care of your accommodation and food.

Some Helpful Tips

• Maintain a steady pace and stay hydrated during the journey
• Do not head anywhere alone and seek guidance from a guide during challenging times
• Respect local cultures, traditions, and environmental concerns
• Be mindful of altitude sickness and take necessary preventive measures regarding it
• Carry a first aid box with you along with the necessary knowledge regarding it
• Prepare yourself physically by practicing lightweight exercises, cardiovascular exercises, and stretching exercises
• Carry cash with you as you won’t have access to ATMs in a remote region
• Be mindful of the weather conditions of the high Himalayan region and pack your bag accordingly
• Bring trekking poles and trekking boots
• Bring a water bottle and some snacks like dry fruits
• Hire a guide from a reputed and licensed trekking agent
• Have travel insurance before heading for the trek
• Follow eco-friendly practices
• Respect wildlife and do not approach wild species alone
• Check your equipment or gear before heading anywhere
• Do not drink water from taps, rivers, or wells instead, you can purchase mineral water or refill your water bottle in the teahouses
• Have a list of emergency contacts in case of any emergency
• Bring diamox and oral rehydration solution with you, and be mindful of maintaining a nutritious diet in the higher region
• The high altitude can pose UV radiation, and to protect yourself from that, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Navigate the path by using a compass and maps, and head for the journey by checking the weather forecast
• Trekking can be physically and mentally challenging; maintain positivity and keep maintaining your confidence.

Drinking Water

Access to clean and safe drinking water is crucial while doing the Mardi Himal Trek short itinerary. During this 3-day itinerary becomes even more critical due to rapid altitude gain and continuous exertion. While water is available throughout the trekking route, knowing where and how to source it can save you from health risks and unnecessary expenses at the higher altitudes. Bottled water is available at the teahouse, but they are not environmentally friendly and costs up to US$ 4 at the higher part of the trail.

Along the trekking route, there are several water taps and streams that offer fresh mountain water. However, while the sources may seem clean on the surface, it is not always guaranteed that they are free from contaminants. Thus, we don’t recommend trekkers to drink untreated water directly from the taps of streams, no matter how clean they appear. Use water purification tablets, a UV filter, or bring portable water filters.

Teahouses also provide boiled water, which is the safest and cost-efficient option during the trek. The boiled water is available at a nominal cost and you can store it in insulated bottles to keep it warm for longer periods.

Training and Preparation for Mardi Himal Trek

The 3 Day Viewpoint Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara might sound short, but don’t let the duration fool you. It is a physically demanding adventure that ascends quickly to higher altitude through the thick forests, steep stone steps and alpine ridgelines. You will push for the maximum altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) at Mardi Himal Viewpoint in just a couple of days. 

That means your body needs to be able to handle both rapid elevation gain and sustained uphill trekking with an average walking period of 6 to 8 hours per day. We recommend that you train for at least 4 to 6 weeks before the trek. If you don’t have experience in high-altitude trekking, you can extend the period for a more comfortable experience. 

You don’t need to be an elite to complete this Mardi Himal Trek view point, a good base level of fitness is essential. For your pre-trek training, you should focus on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength and core stability. It’s best if you do some hiking practice on hilly terrain with your backpack. This will get you familiar with the mountaineer terrain and also help in acclimatization practice, which is crucial for this trek.

Permits and Regulations

Compared to giants of Himalayan adventures like Annapurna Circuit Trek or Everest Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek Pokhara is a relatively short and less-crowded route. However, as it still lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, the permits are mandatory for this trek, even if it has just 3 day itinerary. There is one essential permit that you will require for the Mardi Himal Trek:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

This permit is obtained from the office of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu, Bhrikutimandap, or Pokhara (damside). While going through a trekking agency like Eco Holidays Nepal, they will handle all the permit arrangements for you. To apply for the permit, you need to submit a copy of your valid passport, passport-sized photographs and itinerary details.

**Note: You need to carry the permits with you at all times, there are several checkpoints along the way where officers will ask to inspect your documents**

Is Mardi Himal Trek Short Trek Suitable for Beginners?

The 3 days Mardi Himal Trekking route packs an intense burst of high-altitude trekking, forested climbs and the ridge-top views in a very short time. So, the answer to whether it is suitable for a beginner or not depends on what kind of beginner you are. If you are generally fit and have done some long hikes before and are mentally prepared for the challenges and weather, then yes, it is possible. And, it can be even rewarding.

But, if you are completely new to trekking and are not well-repared for the rapid altitude gain and the demanding steep terrain, this Mardi Himal Trek 3 days route map may feel overwhelming. However, on the positive side, the trails are well-marked and the route is straightforward and easy to follow. The teahouse support, which provided food, lodging and basic supplies, removes the burden of carrying tents or cooking gear, making the journey much more beginner-friendly.

Plus, there are no technical sections along the way despite the steepness. You won’t need to use ropes, ice axes, or scramble to follow the route; you will just need a good level of stamina and endurance. So, if you train beforehand, stay hydrated, pack smart, start early and mentally prepare for the journey, you can enjoy this short adventure even as a beginner.

Trek Cost

This trek is considered one of the most affordable short high-altitude treks in Nepal. The standard cost of Mardi Himal Trek Short is around US$ 300 to US$ 500. That said, the total cost will depend on your travel style, transportation used, number of guides and porters, quality of services and whether you are trekking independently or with a reputable agency. If you are trekking through an agency, this price range will cover for food, accommodation, transportation, a guide and permits.

For the trekkers who are looking forward to experiencing the dramatic beauty of the Annapurna region without committing to a long itinerary or a heavy budget, Eco Holidays Nepal offers the 3 Day Viewpoint Mardi Himal Trek at just US$ 330. As our team is familiar with the region intimately, you are not just paying for the trail access, but you will be walking with insight, experience and support behind you. 

Travel Visa

Before setting off on your adventure of the Mardi Himal Trek Short, the first and foremost step is to secure a Nepal Travel Visa. Fortunately, Nepal has one of the most travel-friendly and seamless visa policies in South Asia. Getting the visa for trekking purposes is a simple and straightforward process for most nationalities. Most international trekkers arrive in Nepal through Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Here, you can easily obtain the ‘On Arrival Visa’.

Fill out the tourist visa form using the kiosk machine at the airport and proceed toward the immigration desk with your online form. If you have filled out the online form from the website, you need to submit the receipt with the barcode; make sure to print it out. There are three types of on arrival visa at the entry points that you can apply for:

15 Days Visa— US$ 30

30 Days Visa— US$ 50

90 Days Visa— US$ 125

For trekking Mardi Himal , a 15-day visa is more than enough, even if you have a plan to explore Kathmandu and Pokhara after the trek. In case if you decide the extend your trip to explore other parts of the country, you can also get a visa extension. For that, you will need to get a minimum 15-day extension, which will cost US$ 45 per person.