One of the shortest and easiest, Mardi Himal Trek can be your next trekking destination in Annapurna Region. An unseen beauty, Mardi Himal Trek is a less explored trekking area.
Officially opened in 2012, this trek will take you through less traversed grazing fields, rugged landscapes, gorgeous ridges, deep woods, and pristine scenery. Mardi is the land of precious and exotic flora & faunas too.
The forests of colorful rhododendrons, maples, oak, bamboo, and pine cover the trail. Rich in biodiversity, you can even spot endangered wildlife like Danphe (Impeyan Pheasant), Monal, Himalayan Thar, Musk deer, spotted deer, Barking Deer, Snow Leopard, and others on this trek.
From Mardi Himal Base Camp, the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) is right in front of you. You will get the most iconic panorama of Annapurna ranges. High peaks like Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Mt. Annapurna I, Gangapurna, and Mt. Annapurna III are visible.
Also, Mardi Himal Trek is a virgin trek with unspoiled culture and traditions. Your adventurous journey will take you to many ethnic villages like Siding village and Lwang Ghalel Village. Both of them represent Gurung culture and lifestyle.
You get to soak into their enriching folklore. The stone built villages will cherish your stay with their traditional songs and dances. All these factors make Mardi Himal Trek an ‘Eco-Tourism Trekking Spot’ of Annapurna region.
In this whole trek, you will cover the total distance of 65 kilometers (40 miles) in total. However, the distance varies if you add other side treks.
Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate level of the trek. For experienced trekkers with a good level of physical fitness, it will be relatively easy. The rugged paths are full of ascents and descents within narrow alleys.
The high path can get harder at a higher elevation. The winds and snow might certainly challenge you at any season. Just moderate level of fitness is necessary for the trek as no technical climbing will be directly involved.
You will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and TIMS card as the trekking permits here. These permits are available from Nepal Tourism offices of Kathmandu and Pokhara.
For accommodation, there are simple teahouses and homestays along the whole route. Compared to other treks in the Annapurna region, the number is limited with basic services.
The best season for Mardi Himal Trek is autumn (March-May) and spring (Mid-September – November). But, from December-February the skies are cleaner but the risk of heavy snowfall is high.
The ultimate vantage point of the trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at the altitude of 4500m. The total duration of the trek is 12 days out of which you will walk for 7 days. As the elevation increases substantially, you might get altitude sickness. So, it is better to take preventive measures before and during the trek.
You will surely have one of the most rewarding and memorable moments of life with a close encounter with nature on this trek. Be ready for the great fun and lifetime experience!
Highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek
- Classic adventure giving you the real taste of unspoiled culture and unique lifestyle
- Spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Hiuchuli, Annapurna South including the best view of Machhapuchhre
- Spot endangered species like Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, Spotted deer, Mona including Pheasants nest
- Colorful rhododendron forests, peaceful routes, ethnic villages and lush farmlands with hospitable locals
- Golden opportunity for spectacular sunrise and sunset you’ll ever see
- A must visit place for trekkers loving adventure and less human traffic
- Walk through rich diverse trek from beautiful forests to rocky mountain terrain
- A complete package of both natural and cultural aspects
