Mardi Himal Climbing

Mardi Himal Climbing

  • Destination
    Nepal
  • Durations
    15 days
  • Max. People
    15+
  • Trip Mode
    In Hotels and local nice lodge with camping on climb
  • Climbing Grade
    F ‘Facial Easy’ French, Swiss Alpine Climbing Systems
  • Trek-Climb area
    Nepal North Mid-West around Annapurna region
  • People / Culture
    Populated by Gurung tribes with ancient culture and traditional life of Buddhism religion.
  • Mode of Transport
    Exciting drives from Kathmandu to Pokhara onwards.

Trip Overview

Highlights

  • Visit and explore the ancient monuments and popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu city.
  • Feel tranquility exploring the serene lakes at Pokhara.
  • Mixed journey of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking and Mardi Himal Climbing.
  • Panoramic views of the outstanding Himalayas, including Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Manaslu, and other surrounding peaks.
  • Traditional culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar communities along the trekking journey.
  • The warm and genuine hospitality of the residents and insights into their art and architecture.
  • Mesmerizing sunrise displaying golden hues over the Himalayas from key vantage points.
  • Trek along the Annapurna Conservation Area, witnessing and exploring the diverse ecosystem.
  • Traversing the magnificent Himalayan landscapes, encountering dense forests of rhododendron blossoms.
  • Camping adventure starting from Forest Camp to Low Camp, High Camp, and finally reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp and again proceeding further to the Advanced High Camp.

'Amazing views around pure wilderness within high Mardi Himal’

Mardi Himal Peak Climbing

Mardi Himal(5,587 meters/18,330 feet) is located at the east of the popular Machhapuchhre in the Annapurna Mountain range. Mardi Himal Climbing is a thrilling and gratifying Himalayan adventure. The journey takes place in the mainstream trekking route in the Annapurna Region. Mardi Himal is popular as an introductory trekking and climbing experience in the Himalayas.

The Mardi Himal journey is charming with full of natural allurements. The trekking trails navigate the diverse enchanting landscapes like gorgeous alpine surroundings, terraced fields, deep valleys, pasture lands, vibrant forests, etc., in a phenomenal setting of snow-covered towering peaks. You can also have immersive cultural encounters, trekking the off-beaten trails that pass through diverse ethnic and traditional villages of the Annapurna region. The journey rewards with fascinating views of the mountainous terrains in relatively less crowded trails.

Mardi trekking traverses the Mardi Khola route before the climbing journey. Though the trail follows remote sections, trekking through the Mardi Riverbed and passing lovely farmlands and thrilling bridges offer a sense of idyllic travel. Mardi Himal Peak Climbing is an ideal opportunity for novice and beginner climbers looking for a mountain climbing experience in the Himalayas. With no previous experience in high-altitude climbing, the short journey of this easy peak is possible. Having said that, a moderate level of skill is advantageous.

Eco Holidays Nepal offers 15 days of short but fulfilling Mardi Himal Climbing Package if you are seeking an introductory trek with climbing adventure. You can broaden your Himalayan prospects by embarking on this journey even within a limited timeframe. We set out on a journey to Mardi Himal, also seen from the Phewa Lake now can be explored from a more close-up range. Be ready to explore the diverse landscapes, vibrant ethnicities, and traditional settlements, enjoying the taste of vibrant local dishes along the way.

Best Time for Mardi Himal Climb

Best Time for Mardi Himal Climb

You can embark on a Mardi Himal Climbing journey during the favorable mountaineering seasons of Spring and Autumn. Both seasons come with suitable weather and temperatures in the Annapurna region. The stable weather conditions with neither too hot nor too cold temperatures would be perfect for climbing Mardi Himal. With minimal rainfall, snowfall, haze, fog, snowstorms, and precipitation, the short journey will be a glorious experience. 

Spring and Autumn are the best times to do any high-altitude trekking and mountaineering adventures, including Mardi Himal. The dry and stable weather with moderate temperatures is the basic feature of this period, which is most important for the high-Himalayan journey. You can have an exhilarating trekking experience in the milder temperatures, around 15°C to 20°C on average. 

The unobstructed clear Himalayan vistas blending with the blue sky create a mesmerizing contrast against the lush greeneries and enchanting landscapes like pristine rivers and waterfalls. You can also grab an opportunity for remarkable wildlife exploration and immersive festive vibes in the local region as the season coincides with several important festivals. Moreover, you can have more beyond the exploration of the limitless magical moments during these seasons.

During spring, the trekking routes are decorated with a heavy bloom of vibrant rhododendrons and Himalayan wildflowers, welcoming the trekkers with lit-up colorful trails. The abundant marvelous greenery and color splash make the Himalayan surroundings glorifying. The photography prospects of these seasons, especially Spring, are unmatched and unbeatable. You can take a perfect shot of wildlife and picturesque scenery in the vibrant natural setting.

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  • Day01

    Arrive at Kathmandu Through International Flights and Transfer to the Hotel.

    • Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 metres/4,593 feet
    • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

    Taking the international flight, you will arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) for the Mardi Himal Climbing adventure. Upon your arrival, our airport representative will receive you at the airport terminal. You will be hotel transferred comfortably by driving in a private vehicle. Our representative will help you check in at the hotel, where you can rest and relax.

    If you arrive early, make time to explore the nearby attractions of the city, or you can do it on the other day of the optional tour. In the evening, our guide will brief you about the Mardi Himal Climbing journey, and after that, you can join a welcome dinner party that marks the beginning of a remarkable Himalayan adventure.

  • Day02

    Optional tour in Kathmandu and Journey Preparation.

    • Preperaion day in Kathmandu
    • Overnight: Hotel In Kathmandu

    Day two is a leisure day to prepare for the trekking and climbing journey and head out for the exciting city tour. The journey will be fruitful, visiting and exploring the historical and cultural sites of the Kathmandu Valley. Out of the top ten UNESCO World Heritage sites, seven are here in the valley, like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath and Changuranarayan. Changunarayan is located a bit far away from the city, so skipping it, you will visit the rest of the monuments.

    After sightseeing, you can either return to your hotel to relax or visit the busy markets of the city streets. After noon, do some final preparations for the upcoming journey, and in the evening enjoy a delicious dinner. Spend a peaceful night during the overnight stay at the Kathmandu hotel.

  • Day03

    Drive to Pokhara.

    • Pokhara Elevation: 822 meters/2,697 feet
    • Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

    The Pokhara drive starts early in the morning. So, after a short breakfast in the hotel, you will be picked up by our representative. Depending on the group size, a tourist bus or a car takes you away from the valley for an overland journey to Pokhara. The journey leaves the busy streets of Kathmandu city and heads towards picturesque locations. Witnessing the scenic views of mesmerizing hills and valleys, gorgeous landscapes, farm villages, and snow-capped peaks, the winding roads lead to Pokhara.

    Upon reaching Pokhara, you will have quality time exploring the serene Phewa Lake, marveling at outstanding views of Mount Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and other surrounding peaks. You will spend a night at a lively hotel in Pokhara.

    Drive Duration: 6-7 hours.

  • Day04

    Drive to Dhampus and Trek to Pothana.

    • Dhampus Elevation: 1,650 meters/5,413 feet
    • Pothana Elevation:1,890 meters/6,200 feet

    Heading west on the lakeside, the drive continues on the Prithivi Highway. The scenic drive of around 18-20 kilometers will take us to Dhampus. Dhampus is a picturesque village with amazing views of mountains. From Dhampus, the trekking journey begins following the trails that lead to Pothana. Pothana is a charming village situated in the Annapurna region. The trekking trail involves ascending and descending paths that pass through the dense forest areas, lovely terraced fields, and several small settlements of the local people.

    Drive Duration: 1-1:30hours.

    Trek Duration: 3-4 hours.

  • Day05

    Trek to Kokar Forest Camp Through Pitam Deurali.

    • Forest Camp Elevation: 2,500 meters/8,202 feet
    • Pitam Deurali Elevation: 2,142 meters/7,027 feet

    After a peaceful overnight stay at Potana, the trek moves forward towards the Koker forests. This journey is picturesque in the Annapurna region, ascending to a high point, Deurali, where you can have panoramic views of the stunning Himalayas. The foreground view of amazing Himalayan landscapes and snow-covered mountain peaks fascinate the journey. After leaving the hilltop of Pitam Deurali, the trekking trail follows the pristine wilderness of more rugged and remote sections.

    Traverse the enchanting and tranquil landscapes where the trail offers dominant views of breathtaking Annapurna ranges, Huinchuli, and Lamjung Himal. Trekking for about 4 to 5 hours in a serene environment, the journey rewards with a fantastic destination, Kokar Forest Camp. This overnight stop is amid the forest, a magical setting with enchanting natural beauty. Also, there are some lodges to accommodate the trekkers.

    Trek Duration: 7-8 hours.

  • Day06

    Trek to Low Camp.

    • Low Camp Elevation: 2,600meters/8,530 feet

    The trek to Low Camp is led by the trails that pass through dense and vibrant rhododendron forests, with a tranquil environment. The scenic journey ascends to an open space with mesmerizing views of the amazing surrounding peaks like Annapurna, Macchapuchre, etc. There may be some steep parts on the trekking route, so it is better to take a gradual ascent. Within a short trekking journey, the Low Camp is reached, which will be at an enchanting location to provide a serene resting point for trekkers.

    Trek Duration: 4-5 hours.

  • Day07

    Trek to High Camp.

    • The High Camp Elevation: 3,550 meters/11,647 feet

    This day of a trekking adventure meets higher altitudes with thin atmospheric air. Set a gradual pace of ascent with proper hydration, being cautious of altitude sickness symptoms. Upon leaving the Base Camp, the uphill ascend offers panoramic views of Mount Machhpuchhre, Mardi Himal, and other surrounding peaks. Continue the trek, facing the breathtaking scenery of majestic peaks and Modi Khola River Valley amidst the Annapurna Conservation Area and Mardi Khola. The narrow uphill trail approaches you at the High Camp with some teahouse availability. It will be better to rest and acclimatize to the High Camp altitude.

    Trek Duration: 4-5 hours.

  • Day08

    Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp to Set Camp.

    • Base Camp Elevation: 4,500 meters/14,763 feet

    The trek from the Mardi Himal High Camp to Base Camp follows a steep and rocky trail. However, overcoming the inlined sections, you will be rewarded with the Awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan peaks. The picturesque journey of traversing the alpine meadows and snow-covered trails leads to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, where the camping is set at a serene and flat spot. The base Campsite is encircled by the sky-reaching Himalayan peaks with close-up views of the Mardi Himal. At the foot of Mardi Himal, at around 4,490 meters, our expert crew set up our base camp, where you will be provided with camping facilities by kitchen staff.

    Trek Duration: 3 hours.

  • Day09

    Climb to Mardi Advance High Camp.

    • Advanced High Camp Elevation: 4,650 meters/15,256 feet

    From the Mardi Himal Base Camp, the trail ascends slowly on steep rocky, and snowy terrain. Following the established trekking trails/marking and with the valuable guidance of guides, we continue our Advance High Camp journey. Follow the gradual ascent to acclimatize properly to the increasing altitude. Upon reaching the advance camp at 4,650 meters, the giant Mardi and Machhapuchhre are right before your eyes. Take time to practice and prepare for the next day's climb of Mardi Himal. Review the climbing gear and equipment, and ensure you rest and sleep well for the journey. Our guides will brief you on the climbing techniques to prepare you for the climb.

    Trek Duration: 4 hours.

  • Day10

    Climb Mardi Himal and return to High Camp.

    • Climb to Mardi Himal

    Today is the day to conquer the Mardi Himal. The changeable weather conditions can make the scaling troublesome. Being weather-conscious, we will start the summit push. With an early start of the climb, the risks of strong midday winds are avoided. Initially, you may meet some sections while climbing towards the Col. From there, the snow slopes are encountered that have to be navigated to gain the summit of Mardi Himal.

    Under the guidance of climbing guides, use the basic mountaineering equipment that you may require for the climb. Adhere to their instructions to navigate the icy and snowy segments of the climb. Reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gnagpurna, and several other adjacent peaks. You are offered a feeling of living the victorious and magical moment at the glorious summit of Mardi Himal. you trek all the way down to the Mardi Himal Base Camp and celebrate your victory. After the successful climb, make your way back to the High Camp for the overnight lodge stay.

    Total time taken: 8 hours.

  • Day11

    Trek to Forest Camp.

    • Overnight: Forest Camp

    Ascend through the trails, traversing elegant rhododendrons and oak forests. The enchanted dense forest and vibrant landscapes can offer you an opportunity to spot some of the rare vegetation and fauna of the region. The consecutive trek of around 5-6 hours takes you to the Forest Camp amidst the mesmerizing forests. The Forest Camp serves as a peaceful setting to rest and break this day’s trek. This tranquil destination offers a handful of teahouses for spending a glorious night. You can have the best stay, relishing the placid magical ambiance of the enchanting forest reflecting the adventurous and victorious Mardi Himal climbing.

    Trek Duration: 5 hours.

  • Day12

    Trek to Dhampus.

    • Dhampus Elevation: 1,650 meters/5,413 feet.
    • Overnight: Dhampus

    Enjoying the natural beauty, retrace the journey back on the same trail. Start descending through the forested trails (vast forest of rhododendrons and pine trees) and pass several villages on the way, like Landruk and Pothana. On the way, you traverse Deurali, the same high point with panoramic views of spectacular Himalayan peaks. Descend further on the downhill trek to reach Dhampus. You will spend a relaxing night at charming Dhampus village.

    Trek Duration: 6 hours.

  • Day13

    Drive Back to Pokhara.

    • Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

    Dhampus to Pokhara is a straightforward journey that is completed in relatively less time. The morning is blessed with the alluring peak vistas while on a short walk to the road that leads to Pokhara. From the enchanting Dhampus village at the southern slopes of the Annapurna region, the drive descends towards Phedi. Scenic landscapes pass by, including traditional villages and elegant terraced fields. With mesmerizing views of green hills and serene lakes, the picturesque drive takes you to Pokhara.

    Drive Duration: 1.5-2 hours.

  • Day14

    Drive or Fly back to Kathmandu and Transfer to the Hotel.

    • Back to Kathmandu

    Driving or flying back to Kathmandu marks the end of the Mardi Himal Climbing journey. From the popular tourist destination, Pokhara, you will be back to the capital. You can either follow the same pattern of driving or board a domestic flight to Kathmandu. The ride journey is similar to what you experienced earlier, and the flight is scenic cross-valley travel. The magnificent aerial views of the stunning Himalayas, green valleys, long flowing rivers, etc, tug your mind during the air travel.

    After reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can get refreshed and reflect on the journey. In the remaining time of the day, you can visit some busy streets of Kathmandu city and cultural sites to shop for souvenirs.

    Drive Duration:6-8 hours.

    Flight Duration:25-30 minutes.

  • Day15

    International Departure to the Homeland.

    • Final day of Departure

    This is the last day in Nepal when all the joys, excitement, and adventure already met their limitations. With the never-forgotten memories of the glorious and adventurous Mardi Himal Climbing journey, bid farewell to the Kathmandu Valley. You will be transferred to the TIA for your flight back to your home country. Our representative will drop you off at the airport as per your departure schedule.

Cost Details

What's Included in Mardi Himal Climbing

  • Airport pickup and drop by private vehicle.
  • Two night’s tourist standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Two night tourist standard hotel in Pokhara.
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trek and climbing.
  • Tea or Coffee during the breakfast in Mountain.
  • Fresh fruit every evening after the dinner.
  • Necessary Tea house and tented accommodation.
  • All necessary paper works trekking permit and climbing permit.
  • All ground transports during trek with sharing basis.
  • Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus.
  • A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking, Government License holder Climbing guide. All his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance are included.
  • Necessary climbing equipment.
  • Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available)
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
  • Use of sleeping bag, down Jacket and Duffel bag. (if you don’t have your own, need to return after trip completed).
  • Necessary Porter.
  • Eco Holidays Nepal T-shirt and cap.
  • Government taxes and official expenses.
  • Route map.
  • Oximeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily. (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms.) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
  • Assistant guide group size above 8 + person.

What's Excluded in Mardi Himal Climbing

  • Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu and Pokhara (Lunch and Dinner).
  • Your Travel and Medical Insurance.
  • International Airfare.
  • Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu
  • Your Personal Expenses.
  • Personal climbing equipment. Can be rent while yu are in Kathmandu($160)
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic cold and hot drinks on trek (those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the Tea Houses).
  • All desserts sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
  • Hot shower and battery charging on the tea houses.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing monument entrance fees ($25 USD per person).
  • Extra night hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Single supplementary $380

Departure Dates & Price

Select a departure month

  • Start Date3rd Mar 2025
    End Date17th Mar 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date7th Mar 2025
    End Date21st Mar 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date10th Mar 2025
    End Date24th Mar 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date14th Mar 2025
    End Date28th Mar 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date17th Mar 2025
    End Date31st Mar 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date21st Mar 2025
    End Date4th Apr 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date24th Mar 2025
    End Date7th Apr 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date28th Mar 2025
    End Date11th Apr 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date3rd Apr 2025
    End Date17th Apr 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date8th Apr 2025
    End Date22nd Apr 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date13th Apr 2025
    End Date27th Apr 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed
  • Start Date18th Apr 2025
    End Date2nd May 2025
    USD 2150Per person
    guaranteed

Essential Information

Mardi Himal Climbing Permits

Mardi Himal Climbing Permits

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)

Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit is a must to enter the protected and conserved area. The trekking trail passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area of the Annapurna region. So, it is vital to obtain a permit for trekking activities in this zone. The ACAP permit costs are equivalent to USD 22.52, which is NPR 3,000.

TIMS card

A Trekkers Information Management System or TIMS Card is a mandatory trekking permit. TIMS card records the trekker's information along with the details of the trekking destination in the system. It then tracks to know the whereabouts of each trekker so that they won't go missing and can get assistance in case of need. The cost of a TIMS card is NPR 2,000 or USD 15.

The Mardi Himal Climbing permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or the TAAN (Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal) office in Pokhara. You can also allow the trekking agency to get permits on your behalf, providing them with all the essential information. Generally, a copy of your passport and passport-size photograph is necessary for permits.

Difficulties of Mardi Himal Climb

Difficulties of Mardi Himal Climb

Mardi Himal Climb takes you to a height of 5,587 meters, with average walking hours in each day trekking ranging from 6 to 7 hours. This implies that although the climb is not so technically challenging, it still demands some physical training for a smooth and successful adventure. Physical training promotes physical fitness and strength, and good stamina with endurance capacity is crucial for overcoming high-altitude adventures.

Likewise, proper preparation is essential as Himalayan routes are mostly in their natural forms, like rugged, rocky, dirt, rough, and loose soil. Embarking on remote uphill treks with a backpack can be annoying and draining, with more steep ascends and descends.

The Mardi Himal has been graded as a moderately difficult journey. There can be the need for climbing equipment like ice axes, harnesses, ropes, crampons, etc. while climbing Mardi Himal. Regarding the short, steep, and narrow trail near the Mardi Base Camp, trekking can be challenging during wet and snowy conditions. Skipping the Mardi Himal Climb during winter and monsoon helps to get rid of these problems. You can do this adventure during favorable and peak seasons for mountaineering, Spring and Autumn.

Having said that, Mardi Himal Climbing is a year-round adventure. But it is crucial to know the weather challenges of the off-seasons. Continuous downpours result in muddy trails with a need to scrape the mud off your boots. Slippery routes carry the potential risk of accidents and injuries. Natural disasters are prominent during these seasons, like landslides and floods. Winter is more stable than monsoon, but the extreme temperature conditions trouble the journey. So, it is better to avoid the off-seasons for the Mardi Himal adventure.

Trekking above 2,500 meters altitude poses the risk of altitude sickness. For altitude sickness, be wary of its possible symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, loss of appetite, etc) and always listen to your body. Do not push your limits that may severe your health conditions which add up to the difficulties. Acclimatization also helps avoid the problem, depending on how well the body adjusts to the changing altitudes. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet and staying hydrated is a must to deal with altitude challenges.