Mardi Himal Trek 

Mardi Himal coming in at 5587m, is the tallest peak in its range in the Annapurna region. The Mardi Himal trek is becoming popular by the day with shorter distance and amazing scenery. If you are short on time and do not make it to the Annapurna Base Camp ABC, or Everest Base Camp EBC, the Mardi Himal trek is a good option. If you are also keen to experience meeting local communities, there are homestays to suit your needs along the Mardi Himal routes. The overall duration of the entire Mardi Himal trek depends on a few factors: speed of walking, time, physical condition, but expect it to be 5 to 11 days trekking in total.

High camp is approximately 3850 meters elevation, this is the highest point on the trek. The view of Machhapuachhre made you feel as if you could touch it, Annapurna South felt close enough to throw a stone at it.

How Difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek ?

The Mardi Himal Trek is of moderate to difficult ability, there are trekkers that will be fine given they have some trekking experience and are fit. The trail has some climbs, and some descents, and yes you will be trekking at high altitude, so it will be demanding.

For each trekking day the distance is not that far, anywhere from 4km to 12km per day (average trek times of around 5-7 hours per day). The altitude per day will be, at times, considerable the highest elevation on this trek will be Day 3 and Day 4 any gain in Altitude will be important (you have to gain 2,100m to 3,600m).

It is fair to say the Mardi Himal Trek is not an easy trek but with the right preparation and fitness, you should be able to complete it. The trek itself is beautiful, with stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the landscape.

Best Time to Go on Mardi Himal Trek

The best time to go on the Mardi Himal Trek is in the spring months (March to May) and autumn months (September to November). Both seasons have excellent weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures which make them the ideal times to go trekking in the Himalayas.

Spring Season (March to May):

The spring season has warm weather and clear skies, which provide terrific conditions for enjoying the magnificent mountain views on the Mardi Himal Trek. The forests are also exquisite in spring as the rhododendron trees and many wildflowers are in full bloom. During the daytime, the temperature will be between 15°C to 20°C, and during the night, it will be between 5°C and 10°C.

Autumn Season (September to November):

Due to the favorable weather conditions, autumn is the most famous season for trekking in the Himalayas. During the autumn season, the weather is mild, and the skies are mostly clear, making trekking in the Himalayas very pleasant. The excellent conditions are mirrored as the hillsides and forests are draped in wonderful golden tones. During the daytime and nighttime, the temperature will be between 15°C to 20°C and 5°C and 10°C respectively.

In both seasons, the trails are maintained and accessible, so the likelihood of any flight delays or cancellations due to adverse weather is low. Remember that the weather can be unpredictable, so you should always prepare for weather changes.

 Detailed Itinerary - Itinerary of Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek Route

Your initial point is in Pokhara, where you will take the traditional route in the Annapurna region. The first approach to trek is Kande, which is the starting point for your trek. You will travel through Australian Base Camp and Deurali. Afterwards, you will take a tranquil stroll through the trees that take you to the forest camp, which is surrounded by pine, rhododendron, and juniper forests. You can sit and have a wonderful meal with familiar faces or new friends at the Mardi Base Camp (4500 m) after acclimatizing at the two high camps and looking over a view of the Mardi Khola valley and the snow-capped southern face of Annapurna.

Alternatively, you can camp, and spring and autumn are the main seasons for Mardi Himal trekking. Rhododendron blossoming in these times may give you an extra appreciation for the world's wonders.