Mardi Himal Trek

11 days 5
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek Photo
us$416 per pax
number of pax
1
$625 x 1 = $625
total $625
difficulty
Moderate
altitude
4500m
group size
1-10
meals
B+L+D
accomodation
Lodges
season
Sep-Nov/March -May
country
Nepal
region
Annapurna Region
starting point
Dhamus Phedi
ending point
Nayapul
distance
~50 to 60 Km
beginner friendly
Yes
acclimatization
Not included
permits
ACAP & TIMS

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

Nepal has been garnering rapid global attention as a top Himalayan trekking destination. There is no such trail in Nepal that trekkers have not reached. Yes, the crowd in these trails can differ depending on the popularity, but their experience is unmatched. Lately, treks like Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp have become increasingly crowded every passing day. In such a case, a trek that is not crowded and still offers the same experience is a blessing. And that blessing is the Mardi Himal Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek, despite opening in the early 2010s, has become a popular trekking destination because of its short duration and challenging trails. So, today it acts as an alternative trekking destination for ABC and other treks in the Annapurna Region. This trek takes you to a height of 4,500 meters (Mardi Himal Base Camp), which is rare for any short trek to do. Not only that, it also offers forested trails and rugged terrain to maintain the thrill of trekking. If you are here because you are seeking a solitude trekking experience, this trek is for you. Read along to know more about the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek.

Highlights of Mardi Himal Camp Trek

  • Reach Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), the highest point of the Trek and also the foot of the Mardi Himal.
  • Witness the majestic Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), the Fishtail Mountain, and the Mardi Himal (5,587 m) up close.
  • Get panoramic views of other mountains in the Annapurna Range, such as Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m).
  • Traverse through lush rhododendron forests along the trail that burst into color during spring.
  • Get an opportunity to know about the life and culture of the Gurung and Magar people by staying at their tea houses and homes in the villages.
  • Walk early to the viewpoint to witness the sunrise over the Annapurna Range and the surrounding mountains.
  • Trek through the diverse landscape, ranging from the lush forests of the temperate zones to the alpine meadows around the Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Outline Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day Itinerary Ending Elevation (m) Trekking Duration Trekking Distance
1 Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal 1,300
2 Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus 900
3  Drive to Dhampus Phedi and trek to Deurali 2,100 5–6 hours ~8 km
4 Trek from Deurali to Kokar Forest Camp 2,520 6 hours ~7 km
5 Trek from Kokar Forest Camp to Low Camp 2,970 4–5 hours ~7 km
6 Trek from Low Camp to High Camp 3,700 5 hours ~6.5 km
7 Exploration day (Viewpoint or Mardi Base Camp and back) 3,700 4–6 hours (optional) ~8–10 km (round trip)
8 Trek from High Camp to Kokar Forest Camp) 2,520 5–6 hours ~12–14 km
9 Trek from Kokar Forest Camp to Jhinu Danda 1,780 5–6 hours ~10–12 km
10 Trek from Jhinu Danda to Siwai, then drive to Pokhara 850 4–5 hours + 2-hour drive ~6 km
11 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 1,300

Detailed Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day01:

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m) and transfer to the hotel

Our office staff will be waiting at the international airport to pick you up in a private vehicle and transfer you to the booked hotel in Kathmandu. After you arrive at the hotel, you can rest for a while and explore the popular tourist Area, Thamel, if that is where you have booked your hotel. Our guide will contact you and brief you about the Mardi Himal Trek.

Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Driving

Day02:

Drive from Kathmandu (1,350 m) to Pokhara (820 m)

While flight options are available to get to Pokhara, this itinerary includes travel by road. If you want to travel by flight, you have to let us know while preparing the itinerary, and we can arrange it for you. However, there will be an additional cost for that. That said, you will travel by road and reach Pokhara after 7 or 8 hours after boarding the bus at Kathmandu.

Itinerary Meal: B
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Driving

Day03:

Trek from Pokhara (820 m) to Deurali (2,100 m)

You will leave the guesthouse in Pokhara around 7 am and drive to Dhampus Phedi. You will reach there just before 8 am. We chose this route as only a few trekkers start from here. From Dhampus Phedi, you will walk uphill to Dhampus village, where you will have lunch. You will then walk slightly uphill to Pothana (1950m), where there is a checkpoint. You have to submit your permits here. After that, you will continue uphill to Deurali (2100m).

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~9–10 km

Day04:

Trek from Deurali (2,100 m) to Kokar Forest Camp (2,520 m)

On day 4 of your Mardi Himal Trek, you will take a right turn from Deurali at the sign that says “Forest Camp.” The trail goes through the jungle. First, it goes uphill, then it goes up and down along a ridge. About halfway, the trail drops steeply, then slowly climbs back to the ridge. After about 4 hours of trekking, you will reach Forest Camp (2600m). There are now three lodges in Forest Camp.

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: ~4 hours
Distance: ~6 km

Day05:

Trek from Kokar Forest Camp (2,520 m) to Low Camp (2,970 m)

The trail from Forest Camp is steep at first but becomes easier as you reach the ridge. About an hour from Forest Camp, you will see a new teahouse called “Rest Camp.” From Forest Camp to Low Camp is a short trek through the jungle. You will sometimes see views of Annapurna South. After about 2.5 to 3 hours, you will reach Low Camp (2970m). There are two lodges in Low Camp, but usually, only one is open. While you can push for High Camp if you start early, we recommend staying at Low Camp as it provides your body time to acclimatize to the thinning oxygen level.

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance: ~7 km

Day06:

Trek from Low Camp (2,970 m) to High Camp (3,700 m)

The trail from Low Camp starts in the jungle, but starts to thin out as you approach the ridge. After about one hour, you will leave the jungle and reach an open ridge. From here, you will see beautiful views of Machhapuchhre ahead and Annapurna South to your left. The trail then goes up and down along the ridge. After 3 hours of trekking, you will reach High Camp (3700 m).

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: ~4-5 hours
Distance: ~6.5 km

Day07:

Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) and return to High Camp

You have arrived at the middle phase of the trek. Today is the day you will head towards the Mardi Himal Base Camp. We recommend you start early so that you can avoid afternoon showers and spend more time at the base camp. The entire up-and-down takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on the pace. Since it is beyond 4,000 meters, we recommend that you walk at a regular pace. Upon reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500 m), you will stay there for a while, enjoy the view, capture the photographs, and return to the High Camp.

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~8–10 km (round trip)

Day08:

Trek from High Camp (3,700 m) to Kokar Forest Camp (2,520 m)

Now that you have completed the first part of the Mardi Himal Trek, you will start the second part, returning to Pokhara and finally to Kathmandu. Today, you will head towards the Kokar Forest Camp. The trail is forested and goes downhill for most of the part.

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: ~5-6 hours
Distance: ~12–14 km

Day09:

Trek from Kokar Forest Camp (2,520 m) to Jhinu Danda (1,780 m)

The trail from Forest Camp to Jhinu takes about 5 to 6 hours. It is easy and mostly flat. First, you will walk downhill to Landruk. Then the trail leads to Himalpani, from where it goes slightly uphill to New Bridge. From there, you will walk straight to the Khomrong River. After crossing the river, there is a short uphill climb to Jhinu Danda, which is famous for its natural hot springs. You would love to relax in the hot water pool after trekking for days. You will stay overnight at a lodge in Jhinu.

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking
Duration: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~10–12 km

Day10:

Trek from Jhinu Danda (1,780 m) to Nayapul, then drive to Pokhara

After breakfast in Jhinu, the trek starts to Nayapul. This is also the same route many trekkers from the ABC Trek use to return to Pokhara, so you might find the trail a bit crowded than usual. You will walk to Nayapul, taking a private or public bus to Pokhara. If you arrive early, you can enjoy the nightlife of Pokhara and explore the Lakeside.

Itinerary Meal: B+L+D
Accommodation: Lodge
Walking / Driving: Walking/Driving
Duration: ~4–5 hours
Distance: ~6–7 km

Day11:

Drive from Pokhara (820 m) to Kathmandu (1,350 m)

When arriving at Pokhara, you will have two options: 1) explore Pokhara and 2) return to Kathmandu. If you go with the first one, you must let us know beforehand, and we will manage it. And, if it’s the latter one, you will return to Kathmandu by road with the guide.

Walking / Driving: Driving

What's included

  • The airport picks up and drops services on the arrival day and departure.
  • Kathmandu to Pokhara by deluxe tourist bus.
  • Pokhara tourist bus station to the hotel by car.
  • Pokhara to Dhampus Phedi by car.
  • Nayapul to Pokhara by car.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek).
  • Accommodation along the trek.
  • License holder guide (Including his food, lodge, insurance, transportation, equipment, salary, etc.)
  • All required legal documents (TIMs and ACAP Permit).
  • Trekking equipment: (Sleeping bag and Down jacket)
  • All government taxes.
  • Trekking and city map.
  • First aid medical box.
  • Fresh and dry fruits during the trek.
  • A token of love from the company.
  • Farewell lunch or dinner is a suitable time.

What’s not included

  • An extra night’s hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Porters during the trek
  • Drinks: coca, mineral water, beer, hot shower, battery charge, WIFI, etc.
  • Some snacks: chocolate, bars, etc.
  • Tips are expected.

Mardi Himal Trek FAQs

Why is the trek considered more rewarding than Annapurna Base Camp?

The Mardi Himal trek is often considered more rewarding because it offers a more raw, unfiltered Himalayan experience. There’s less commercialization and hence fewer crowds. The beauty is pristine, allowing trekkers to feel more connected to the mountains and nature.

Can I trek Mardi Himal in winter?

How crowded is Mardi Himal compared to ABC?

How does Mardi Himal compare to Poon Hill in terms of trekking experience?

How does the weather change above Low Camp?

What do trekkers often overlook when preparing for Mardi Himal?

How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek? 

What can I expect in terms of accommodation on the Mardi Himal Trek?

How do I deal with possible altitude sickness during the trek?

Can I start the Mardi Himal Trek from Kande instead of Dhampus Phedi? 

Location and History of Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is in the Kaski district in the Annapurna Region of Nepal, within the Annapurna Conservation Area. Like any other trek in the Annapurna Region, it starts from Pokhara. You must get to Pokhara first to reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp. It is situated beneath the Mardi Himal (5,587 m) and on the south face of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). The trails leading to the Mardi Himal Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp are connected. This means that it can even be accessed through ABC Trek.

Despite being close to the popular trekking trail like Annapurna Base Camp, it was closed for trekkers for many years until it was opened in 2012 A.D. by the Nepalese Government. Since its opening, it has garnered popularity as an alternative trek for those who didn’t want to take the crowded trail to ABC. However, the overall trekking was affected by COVID. But, it has been able to restore itself to full glory, and today people take this trail for solititude and a Himalayan trekking experience.

Mardi Himal Trek Elevation Profile

The Mardi Himal Trek starts from the Dhampus Phedi (1,130 m), for which you have to drive from Pokhara, and the highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m). So, the overall elevation gain in this trek is 3,370 meters. The highest elevation gain happens on the first day of the trek, where you must reach Deutali (2,100 m) from Dhampus Phedi.

That said, the elevation gain is gradual, allowing you to acclimatize and get accustomed to the thinning oxygen level naturally. The highest elevation loss, however, is about 1,180 meters on the eighth day of the trek, where you have to reach Kokar Forest Camp from the High Camp.

The table below is the elevation profile for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek:

Day Route Description Start Elevation (m) End Elevation (m) Elevation Gain (m) Elevation Loss (m)
1 Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel 1,350 1,350 0 0
2 Drive to Pokhara 1,350 820 0 530
3 Drive to Dhampus and Trek to Deurali 1,130 2,100 1970 0
4 Trek to Kokar Forest Camp 2,100 2,520 420 0
5 Trek to Low Camp 2,520 2,970 450 0
6 Trek to High Camp 2,970 3,700 730 0
7 Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and return to High Camp 3,700 3,700 800 800
8 Trek to Kokar Forest Camp 3,700 2,520 0 1,180
9 Trek to Jhinu Danda 2,520 1,780 0 740
10 Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara 1,780 820 0 960
11 Drive to Kathmandu 820 1,350 530 0

Weather and Temperature for Mardi Himal Trek

Compared to other trekking destinations, the facilities along the Mardi Himal Trek are limited. The tea houses might even be closed at the higher elevations. So, it becomes crucial to know about the weather and temperature to determine the best time as well as plan the trek. That said, spring and autumn are considered the best times for the Mardi Himal trek as these months offer the best trekking conditions. Here is the table showcasing the weather and temperature at different areas of the Mardi Himal Trail.

Season Deurali (2,100 m) Forest Camp (2,520 m) High Camp (3,700 m) Base Camp (4,500 m) General Weather Conditions
Spring 5°C – 18°C/td> 3°C – 15°C -3°C – 10°C -6°C – 7°C Clear, dry, rhododendron blooming, ideal trekking conditions
Summer 12°C – 20°C 10°C – 18°C 5°C – 14°C 2°C – 10°C Warm, humid, monsoon rains and leeches are common below 3,000 m
Autumn 6°C – 17°C 4°C – 14°C -2°C – 9°C -4°C – 6°C Stable, dry, excellent mountain views, crisp air
Winter 0°C – 10°C -2°C – 8°C -8°C – 4°C -10°C – 2°C Cold, occasional snow, fewer trekkers, clear skies

Note: The temperatures above are the approximate average range.

Mardi Himal Trek for all Levels of Trekkers

Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most beautiful short treks. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna Range and the forested trails. However, different levels of trekkers might perceive it differently. Beginners might even have a question about whether they can do it. So, this section provides you with what the Mardi Himal Trek might be like depending on your experience level as a trekker:

Mardi Himal Trek for Beginner Trekkers

Let’s get this straight. The Mardi Himal Trek is moderately difficult. This means there will be challenging sections and the risk of altitude sickness. Therefore, a beginner might find it more challenging to complete this trek. That doesn’t mean that it’s not doable by beginners. It is. However, they need good preparation.

You might find it challenging to climb on the first day, when you need to reach Deurali, as the elevation gain is approximately 980 meters. You might stop at places to catch your breath. However, the forested trails, surrounding mountains, and the thrill of trekking can subdue the pain. If you are well-prepared, the Mardi Himal Trek will offer the right amount of adventure to kick-start your Himalayan trekking journey.

Mardi Himal Trek for Intermediate Trekkers

Those with some trekking experience will find the Mardi Himal Trek both rewarding and challenging. However, what differentiates them from beginners is that they can handle these challenges better. For example, they will know the importance of the gradual ascent and plan their trek accordingly.

They will not come unprepared. They will be more confident in navigating the trail. Be it the elevation gain from Dhampus Phedi to Deurali or from High Camp to Base Camp, they can do it more efficiently. However, they shouldn’t be neglected in the preparation part.

Mardi Himal Trek for Experienced Trekkers

If you are an experienced trekker doing the Mardi Himal Trek, it might mean you are now seeking more solitude treks. If you have done many other high-altitude treks, then the Mardi Himal Trek is like a piece of cake for you. It might not be challenging, but it still holds value through off-the-beaten routes, solitude, and cultural richness.

You can even complete this trek in fewer days. For example, you can reach High Camp from the Kokar Forest Camp daily. If you are an experienced trekker, you might try to combine the Mardi Himal Trek with other side treks.

Why is the Mardi Himal Trek Underrated? 

Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new trek that offers a high-altitude trekking experience to trekkers. It is closer to the other popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek. You can even combine the Mardi Himal Trek with other treks to do them all at once. However, despite its proximity to the other popular treks, it remains underrated. What can be the reasons? Let’s find out.

New Trekking Trails

Other popular trekking trails near the Mardi Himal Trek were opened ages ago. As a result, they gained popularity over time. For example, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek was officially opened in 1986, allowing it to attract people from around the world. However, the Mardi Himal Trek is still relatively new, having been opened in 2012 A.D., so people are still unfamiliar with it, which is both a perk and a disadvantage.

It is a perk because, since many people are unaware of this trek, it remains relatively uncrowded and can offer an ultimate trekking experience. However, it is overshadowed by these popular treks and could benefit from more promotion.

Misunderstood as too Easy

Many trekkers either don’t consider Mardi Himal Trek as their destination or simply deem it too easy. They assume that it is too easy and short to be exciting. However, that is not the case. To give you the comparison, its highest elevation is 4,500 meters (Mardi Himal Base Camp), which is more than that of ABC, which is 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp). This should also give you an idea that it might be easier than another high-altitude trek, but by no means does it compromise the trekking experience.

Short Trek but Big Adventure

Trekkers often seek long trekking routes, thinking that short treks don’t offer much of a thrill and a scenic experience. Mardi Himal Trek defies such assumptions. Yes, shorter treks can be done in 6 to 11 days. Despite being a short trek, it offers the adventure and scenic experience trekkers seek.

It is less crowded, and the trails are off the beaten path. Throughout the trek, the mountain views don’t leave your eyesight. You can reach the Mardi Base Camp, whose elevation is higher than the highest point of many famous trekking destinations in Nepal. So, you can gain the adventure you seek while connecting with nature in the Mardi Himal Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek Permits

Since Mardi Himal Trek is located within the Annapurna Conservation Area, you must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to trek legally. The other permit you will need is a TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System), which ensures your safety and allows the officials to track you in an emergency. The details of these two permits are as follows:

Permit Cost (Foreigners) Cost (SAARC Nationals) Where to Obtain
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) NPR 3,000 (~USD 22) NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu) or Park Entry Checkpoints
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) NPR 2,000 Per person (~USD 15) NPR 1,000 (~USD 8) Nepal Tourism Board (Kathmandu) or Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) office

Note: Children under 10 don’t need to acquire ACAP, NPR 100 for Nepalese. Failing to provide the permits at checkpoints can have legal issues, so ensure you have them. To obtain them, you have to give a photocopy of your documents to Himalaya Guide Nepal, and we will get them on your behalf.

Mardi Himal Trek Cost

The Mardi Himal Trek package at the Himalaya Guide Nepal starts at USD 625 for a single person. This price covers the cost of permits, food, accommodation, guides, and transportation during the trek. (See below for detailed breakdown.) However, it is not a fixed price. If you are trekking in a group, you can get a group discount.

For example, if you are a group of seven people, the package for a single person will be USD 410, saving you USD 215. The more the group, the more budget-friendly the Mardi Himal Trek is.

Transportation for Mardi Himal Trek

To begin the Mardi Himal trek, you’ll first travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then from Pokhara to the starting point, Pitam Deurali. Travelers have the option to choose from various modes of transportation to reach each destination. So, here are the common options for transportation for the Mardi Himal Trek:

Kathmandu to Pokhara

  • Tourist Bus: It is comfortable and affordable, takes 6-8 hours, and is a popular choice for trekkers.
  • Flight: It is the fastest option to get to Pokhara, taking only 25 minutes by plane, and is great for saving time.
  • Private Car/JEEP: This is another flexible and comfortable option for small groups, taking approximately 6 hours.
  • Local Bus: It is one of the most affordable transportation options, but it is less comfortable and often slower, and more crowded.

Pokhara to Kande (Trek starting point)

  • Private Jeep/ Car: It is the most convenient and comfortable option and best suited for the bumpy trails of the mountain area.
  • Shared Jeep/Local Bus: It is quite cheap, but less comfortable.

Average Duration of Mardi Himal Trek 

Our 11-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary focuses on the gradual elevation gain to allow even beginner trekkers to complete the trek. It will enable you to acclimatise naturally without needing an extra day. So, the risk of altitude sickness is reduced. However, the Mardi Himal Trek can also be done in fewer days. For example, you can complete it in about 7 days if you are short on time. So, we also provide a shorter itinerary for the Mardi Himal Trek.

Day Route Highest Altitude Duration Distance
1 Kathmandu To Pokhara 1,400 m 6-8 hours of driving 200 km
2 Pokhara to Kande and trek to Pitam Deurali 2,100 m 4–5 hours 5.5 km
3 Pitan Deurali to Kokar Forest Camp 2,520 m 4-5 hours 6 km
4 Kokar Forest Camp to High Camp 3,700 m 5-6 hours 7.5 km
5 Explore the Mardi Himal viewpoint and return to Badal Danda 4,200 m (viewpoint) 4-5 hours in round-trip 6-7 km
6 Badal Danda to Sidhing and drive to Pokhara 3,250 m 5-6 hour trek + 3 hour drive 9 km
7 Pokhara to Kathmandu 1,400 m 6-7 hours drive 200 km

Can I combine the Mardi Himal Trek with the Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

Yes! You can combine Mardi Himal Trek with both Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek. For example, upon arriving at the Kokar Forest Camp of Mardi Himal Trek trail, you can take a detour to reach Jhinu Danda or Ghandruk from where you can decide do either Ghandruk Poon Hill Trek or Annapurna Base Camp Trek or even both. This route allows you to experience both the quiet trails of Mardi and the crowded ones of ABC.

However, combining these treks will extend your trekking duration to around 15 to 17 days, depending on the itinerary you prepare. While you will experience diverse landscapes and multiple base camps in one go, it can also get tiresome and expensive. If you wish to combine these treks, we recommend consulting with us beforehand, as we can tailor a more suitable itinerary to suit your pace, fitness level, and expectations.

Why Experience the Mardi Himal Trek in 2025?

Since the Mardi Himal Trek trails welcomed trekkers, they have only gained popularity. It has become underrated for many, and popularity is expected to increase in the upcoming days. In such a case, 2025 is the perfect time to experience the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek as it still offers peaceful trails. It still stands out as the best option for those with limited time and budget. Unlike other treks, it doesn’t demand expensive trekking gear. This trek offers silence, adventure, and an unforgettable experience.

Back in 2024, more than 200,00 people visited the Annapurna Region. Out of them, many were trekkers. With passing time, these numbers will increase, and in a few years to come, the Mardi Himal Trek trails will also be crowded like any other popular trek in Nepal. So, 2025 might be your chance to walk this trail in near solitude. You can still enjoy the forested trails, the off-the-beaten-path, and the surrounding mountains.

Comparing the Mardi Himal Trek with the Langtang Valley Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Like the Mardi Himal Trek, multiple other treks are short, less crowded, and beginner-friendly. So, what is the exact difference between them? Take the Langtang Valley Trek or the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, both of which can be done in a shorter duration. So, why choose Mardi Trek over them? Here is the comparison between these three treks:

Feature Mardi Himal Trek Langtang Valley Trek Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek
Region Annapurna Region Langtang Region (north of Kathmandu) Annapurna Region
Duration 7 to 11 days 7–10 days 7–12 days
Maximum Altitude ~4,500 m (Mardi Himal Viewpoint) ~5,033 m (Tserko Ri) ~4,130 m (Annapurna Base Camp)
Difficulty Moderate Moderate Moderate to Challenging
Scenery Forests, ridges, and close-up Annapurna views Forests, Tamang villages, Langtang Lirung views Terraced fields, waterfalls, Annapurna & Machhapuchhre
Cultural Experience Gurung villages Tamang & Tibetan Buddhist culture Gurung & Magar communities
Crowds Fewer trekkers (less crowded) Moderate (less than ABC) Popular and busy in peak seasons
Teahouse Facilities Basic to moderate Moderate Well-developed
Cost (USD)(1 pax) 625 per person 576 per person 700 per person
Highlights Annapurna Sanctuary, Machapuchare, Annapurna Range, Hot springs Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Manang, Pisang Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Sherpa culture

While these treks can be done in shorter days, the Mardi Himal Trek is relatively less crowded. If you seek solitude and adventure at once, you should opt for the Mardi Himal Trek. The 11-day itinerary of Mardi Himal is USD 625, which is relatively budget-friendly. If you are experienced and part of a group, you can complete this trek in a shorter time and at a lower cost.

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Route Map

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Mardi Himal Trek Map