Exploring the ridge to Machapuchre- Mardi Himal Trek.

Thinking of trekking to Mardi Himal Base Camp? Looking for a short itinerary for Mardi Himal Trek? I got you covered!- In this blog, I will share my experience and help you plan and prepare for your amazing adventure to Mardi Himal Base Camp. Here's a complete guide written by me- Mardi Himal Trek guide.

Mardi Himal Trek is arguably one of the best treks in the Annapurna region. Opened in 2012, this trek has been a firm favorite of many trekkers, especially young Nepalese trekkers like me. Not to mention, foreign trekkers also hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. They add Poon Hill Trek and Mardi Himal Trek.

Mardi Himal Trek is popular for the close-up views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Huinchuli and ridgeline adventure. It is easy to moderate trek. If you are an experienced trekker, this trek will be an easy trek for you. And for the first-time trekker, it is arguably a moderate trek.

The trail leads up the small village (starting point) of Dhampus, or Kande, or Landruk or Ghandruk, to High Camp, View Point, and Base Camp. The route is easy, but not to be underestimated- 4500m is the highest elevation of this trek.

For those who love to trek independently, Mardi Himal Trek is a great option. The trail is easily navigable and well-marked. There are blue-white stripes painted on trees and boulders along the route that guides you throughout the trail.

The lonely forest opens out and reveals ridge and the sky dominated by famous Machapuchare (Fishtail). In just a couple of days, you can traverse the Mardi Himal Trek route. And the ups and downs is a good workout for anyone, especially novice trekkers.

Talking about food and accommodations, there are enough tea houses and lodges at the stopping points. Due to growing demand, few more lodges are still under construction that will cater to more trekkers. The food menu serves dal bhat, momo, Tibetan bread, chowmien, noodle-soup, pizza, spring rolls, etc. And the rooms are cozy, with beds, a pillow, and a blanket. The toilets and showers are outside.

Mardi Himal Trek Highlights

1) short and easy trek

2) spectacular views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and Huinchuli

3) least-explored trail in Annapurna region, in comparision to Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp

4) warm Hospitality of local people

5) easily accessible from Pokhara, and villages like Ghandruk, Landruk, Kande, and Dhampus.

Mardi Himal Trek Overview

Trip Difficulty- Easy

Starting Point- Pokhara

Ending Point- Pokhara

Accommodation- Guest Houses, Lodges

Food- Nepali, Western and Indian

Maximum Altitide- 4500m

Best Time to Trek- Spring and Autumn

Trek Cost- depends on you, and the nature of the trek.

Independent Trek- for Nepali and Indian = Rs 15000-Rs, 20000

Independent Trek- for foreigner = USD 190-250

Guided Trek (with guide and porter) = USD 300- 400

Organized Trek (depends on travel agency) = USD 500- 1000 or more

* The price represents tentative figure and is subject to changes*

Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

(cited from Mardi Himal Trek Complete Guide)

MARDI HIMAL TREK 3 DAYS

Day 1: Pokhara to Dhampus to Forest Camp

Day 2: Forest Camp to High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp

Day 3: Back to Pokhara

MARDI HIMAL TREK 4 DAYS

Day 1: Pokhara to Siding

Day 2: Siding to High Camp

Day 3: High Camp to Base Camp

Day 4: Back to Pokhara

MARDI HIMAL TREK 5 DAYS

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara to Dhampus

Day 2: Dhampus to Low Camp

Day 3: Low Camp to High Camp

Day 4: High Camp to Base Camp to Lumre to Pokhara

Day 5: Back to Kathmandu

MARDI HIMAL TREK 6 DAYS

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara to Dhampus

Day 2: Dhampus to Forest Camp

Day 3: Forest Camp to High Camp

Day 4: High Camp to Base Camp to Low Camp

Day 5: Low Camp to Pokhara

Day 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu

MARDI HIMAL TREK 7 DAYS

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kande

Day 2: Kande to Forest Camp

Day 3: Forest Camp to Low Camp

Day 4: Low Camp to High Camp

Day 5: High Camp to Base Camp to Low Camp

Day 6: Low Camp to Pokhara

Day 7: Pokhara to Kathmandu

MARDI HIMAL TREK 8 DAYS

Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara to Dhampus

Day 2: Dhampus to Forest Camp

Day 3: Forest Camp to Mardi Himal High Camp

Day 4: Mardi Himal High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp

Day 5: Mardi Himal Base Camp to Low Camp

Day 6: Low Camp to Ghandruk

Day 7: Ghandruk to Pokhara

Day 8: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Mardi Himal Trek Pictures