The Mardi Himal Trek sounds like a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Annapurna range but have limited time. This trek offers stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, Annapurna I, and Mardi Himal. The trek is a week-long and takes you through ancient rhododendron forests before climbing up to the higher altitudes, where you can see the spectacular views of the mountains.
The Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at the base of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre or Fishtail, is a hidden gem that few trekkers visit. From High Camp, you can climb to the Mardi Himal Base Camp in about 3-4 hours, offering close-up views of the entire Annapurna Range. There is also a viewpoint about 2 hours from High Camp, offering amazing views of the mountains.
- Day 01: Welcome at airport and transfer to the hotel.
- Day 02: Free day for trekking preparation.
- Day 03: Kathmandu to Pokhara drive by tourist bus (820m, 6/7 hrs)
- Day 04: Drive from Pokhara to Phedi by Car then trek to Pothana. (1950m, 5hrs)
- Day 05: Pothana to Forest Camp (2550m, 4/5 hrs)
- Day 06: Forest Camp to Low Camp (2970m, 4/5 hrs)
- Day 07: Low Camp to High Camp (3540m, 4 hrs)
- Day 08: Trek up to 4500 m for breathtaking views then trek back to Low Camp (2970m, 6/7 hrs)
- Day 09: Low Camp to Kalimati (1680m, 5 hrs)
- Day 10: Kalimati to Lwang (1460m, 4 hrs), then drive back to Pokhara (1:30 hrs)
- Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus (7 hrs)
- Day 12: Join with a different program or farewell.
- Note:
* The trek itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice.
Initiative Outdoor uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
Your trek cost does NOT include:
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers during the trek, etc.
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on internal flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Initiative Outdoors