The Mardi Himal Trek, which is a short, but pleasing outing to Nepal, is a simply remarkable journey. Basically, you can get to the very foot of the Annapurna mountains for a mere three days. This is an easy trek that busy people can go to on any day. Perfect times to go are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May)
- Length: 3 days
- Difficulty: Medium
- Highest point: 4,500 meters (14,764 feet)
- Start and end point: Pokhara
Why Choose Mardi Himal Trek
- Short and easy to fit in a busy schedule
- Less crowded than other treks
- Beautiful views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli mountains
- Mix of nature and local culture
Best Times to Trek
Autumn (September to November)
This time is commonly preferred for walking. The weather is usually clear and dry. You can have an excellent eye view of the mountains. Days are warm whereas nights are cool. Nepal is at its best with many colorful festivals around this time.
Spring (March to May)
One more suitable time for the walk is the spring season. The weather becomes a little warm. You can see impressive flowers especially rhododendrons blooming. The weather will be bright but with the afternoon haze.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Pokhara to Low Camp
Begin the journey from Pokhara. Travel by car up to Kande and then walk through forests and villages. You can see the Annapurna range in the open areas. Low Camp is where you will spend the night.
- Travel time: 4-5 hours
- Walking distance: 7-8 km
- Highest point: 2,100 meters
Day 2: Low Camp to High Camp
Wandering amidst trees around 6-7 hours and you can experience the uninterrupted nature. Trees will be gone as you move on. Reach High Camp at 3,580 meters. It will be cold in the evening, so make sure you are dressed warmly.
- Walking time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 5-6 km
- Altitude gain: 1,480 meters
Day 3: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to Pokhara
Commence your journey early. Walk up to Mardi Himal Base Camp at the height of 4,500 meters (3-4 hours). Take a look at the Annapurnas and the other high peaks. Both ways. You have the option to either stay at High Camp or bring a car back to Pokhara.
- Walking time: 7-8 hours in total
- Distance: 10-12 km round trip
- Highest point: 4,500 meters
What to Pack
For the track, thus, be sure to prepare your warm clothes, hiking shoes, and also a raincoat. Make sure to take a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and an initial aid kit. Do not at any moment miss your camera or anything else that you think could be useful.
Physical Preparation
Mardi Himal Trek is a beginner level trek of moderate difficulty and requires a general level of fitness. Be prepared for the trek by walking or running regularly. Thus, one can kill two birds with one stone by practicing with a fully loaded backpack and also elevating oneself. This will be a good way to get ready for the trek.
Altitude Sickness
The trek goes to places that are i.e. higher where you have less air. Some people think they will get sick while they think they are sick because of the clothes they are wearing while the trek is in such a challenging environment. To escape from this issue, one of the main directions is to walk slowly and drink lots of water. Stay away from the alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. In case you have any symptoms, inform it to the guide.
Local Culture and Etiquette
Be in touch with local people as well as their lifestyle and other various culture. Be sure to ask for permission before you take the photo. It is both a part of courtesy and a rule, tell her that she should respect. It’s a good idea to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or temple, as it shows respect. .
Food and Water
In a trek, it’s animal things of their end of food items that are rather simple but great tasting. Dal Bhat could be your first experiments with the taste of traditional Nepalese food. Momos, noodle soup, and eggs with potatoes also are among the options to have. Drink enough water, it is a must. You can select either bottled water or use local sources that purify water.
Permits and Fees
Produce two permits for the trek: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card. These can be provided to you in either Kathmandu or Pokhara, but it is recommended to get them done in Kathmandu.
Safety Tips
Bring a guide with you, or be a part of a group. Always walk on existing paths. Carry a fundamental first aid kit that is supplied with common medications and treatments. Important phone numbers such as emergency ones should be known by you. Regularly check the weather forecasts for your and others’ safety.
Environmental Responsibility
To keep the mountains clean, you should assist in the following ways:
- Carry away all the rubbish produced by you
- Use biodegradable soap
- Instead of purchasing the bottled water that you can do without, you should not do so
- Refrain from straying on your treks so that the mountains do not erode.
Conclusion
The Mardi Himal Trek is a quite compact, but also, very beautiful and captivating hiking path in the Nepali mountains. It will leave you and your team breathless, as well as it is a local experience and reveals the greatness of nature in just three days. Immaculate execution and respect for the environment are two things that make this trip complete and totally unforgettable in the Himalayas.
