Everest base camp Trek takes the top spot, when it comes to naming the best bucket list adventure hiking in...
Mardi Trek
Overview
The Mardi trek delivers breathtaking views of the Mt. Dhaulagiree (8167 m) and Annapurna range, including; Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m). Gangapurna (7,454 m), towering Mt Fishtail or Machhapuchhre (6993 m) and Mardi peak (5,553 m). It is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas compared to the popular ABC and Poon Hill treks. The Mardi Himal trek is a great choice for trekkers, who prefer a quieter and more peaceful journey. The trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, as you pass through traditional Nepalese villages and interact with friendly locals along the way.
The route takes you through less known beautiful part of Aannpurna, passing rhododendron forests, seasonal flora and fauna, charming tea houses, providing a unique and less crowded experience and the Mardi view point offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Additionally, during winter, the Mardi trek can still be enjoyed by those who are well-prepared with the right gear and equipment for colder temperatures.
Highlights
- Panoramic view of Annapurna range, including peaks like Machhapuchhere( Fishtail) Mardi Himal, Annapurna south and Hiuchuli.
- Compare with other popular treks in the region, Mardi himal is less crowded offering a more serene and peaceful trekking experience.
- Mardi is cultural Immersion, along the trail , you will encounter traditional Gurung and Magar villages giving you a glimpses into the local culture, lifestyle and hospitality.
- Rich biodiversity, this trek takes you through diverse landscape, including lush forest, rhododendron forest and alpine meadows, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region.
- Varity of routes, different route options available, ranging from short trek to longer more challenging routes, catering to various trekking preferences and fitness levels.
- Off the beaten path, perfect for seeking a less commercialized trekking experience while still enjoyable spectacular mountain views.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival at Tribhuvan International airport in Kathmandu. Pick up by Sherpa Brothers Treks representative, transfer to hotel check in and welcome drink from receptionist. Rest and briefing about trip., O/N at 3 star category hotel with deluxe room on BB plan
Day 2 : Drive to Pokhara with tourist bus, check in hotel with BB plan. Explore Pokhara city in the afternoon and delicious food with relaxing time in Lake side in the evening. O/N hotel
Day 3 : Drive to Kangde and trek to Deurali, (2200m), O/N in tea house, Approx 3.5 hrs
Day 4 : Deurali to Low Camp (2900m), Approx 7 hours
Day 5 : Low Camp to high camp (3585m), Approx 4 hours
Day 6 : Early morning around 4:30 walk to view point (4200m) for great mountain view, sunrise and trek to forest camp (3200m), Approx 8 hours
Day 7 : Forest camp to Kalaimati and drive to Pokhara trek ends
Day 8 : Either flight or drive by road to Kathmandu
Day 9 : Pick up from hotel and drive to International airport 3 hours prior to depart home
Services Includes
- Accommodation & Breakfast during 6 days Mardi Himal trekking period
- Professional and experience license holder trekking guide salary, insurance
- Tourist bus transportation to Pokhara/Kathmandu
- Private transportation to Kande and return from Sishing to Pokhara with local Jeep
- ACAP and TIMS permits
- Trip route map
Services Excludes
- Personal nature expense such as WIFI internet, data pack, telephone calls, bar and beverage bills bottled drinks including (cold drinks and mineral water/boiled water, laundry)
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara and during trekking period
- Personal insurance, Unforeseen accidental rescue expenses
- Days beyond the itinerary
- Gratitude to staff
Additional Information
The trail incorporate easy ranking of usual 6-7 hours walking every day. Mardi trek is the relatively shorter duration of trek which makes it an ideal choice for those with time constraints but still seeking an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Accommodation and Food
On trek: 5 days twin sharing accommodation in a tea house (trekking guest house) with meals, (Break fast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea/ Coffee) on full board. The tea houses along the trekking route provide basic but comfortable accommodations, with twin sharing rooms available. These tea houses also offer a variety of delicious home cooked meals to keep you energized throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Additionally, you can enjoy hot drinks such as tea or coffee to warm up after a long day of trekking.
Travel insurance
Sherpa Brothers Treks and Expedition Pvt/ Ltd. take every care to make our treks safe and enjoyable. All our routes are scouted to ensure the trails are safe and the facilities along route are of an acceptable standard. In addition, we have vast experience of trekking at altitude and are trained to deal with Acute Altitude Sickness. However, due to terrain, weather and altitude, risk is not always predictable in the Himalaya. To ensure you have a worry free time with us, personal travel insurance is essential to cover the cost of unforeseen accident, illness or rescue. The costs involved can be large and personally overwhelming in the unlikely event of accident or injury.
All Nepalese staff, guides and porters employed by Sherpa Brothers Pvt. Ltd. are insured locally but we regret that we cannot offer insurance for our clients.
Sherpa Brothers Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd. is not liable should anything go wrong due to unforeseen circumstances.
When choosing an insurance policy be sure to confirm with your insurer that your policy covers adventure holidays and trekking at high altitude. Some insurers makes special exception for these types of trip so please read the small print and contact your insurer if you are unsure.
When is the best time to do Mardi Trek in general ?
While, the best times to go walking and trekking to Mardi are in the spring, summer(late February – May, June, July) and autumn (late September-Mid December).
Autumn; The best time of year to do Mardi trek is supposedly in the autumn. With dry weather and crisp, clear skies, the mountain views are at their best. Since the summer monsoon, the countryside has been lush and green.
Spring; As the weather warms up in late February and May wide variety of trekking options become available. The gorgeous magnolia and rhododendron will be in bloom, even though the skies may be cloudier than in the fall. If you want to trek in Mardi in the both fall and spring time, you should book well in advance because the popular trails can get crowded during this time and flights fill up fast.
Winter; Generally, winter brings bright, dry days, though the evenings are bitterly cold at altitude and snow. Well-prepared with the right gear and equipment for colder temperatures. Winter can be an excellent time to do Mardi trek because there are fewer tourists.
Required gears check list
Having the right gear ensures that you are prepared for adventure and all challenges or emergencies that may arise during your mountain adventures. From proper clothing and footwear to essential tools and safety equipment, your gear provides the necessary support and protection needed to navigate through rugged terrains and unpredictable weather conditions.
Below we present you a basic complete packing list suitable for this trek.
Hiking gears
Day bag 1 – A porter will carry your primary gear in duffel bag (up to 12kg per trekker). You’ll need to bring your own daypack. 30–35L is adequate.
Dry Bag 1 – This protects your bag and clothing from potential moisture, wet object and rain.
Walking pole 1 – ( if necessary) Trekking poles can decrease the impact on your joints. They are excellent for knees while going down. We recommend adjustable Black Diamond trekking poles.
Water bottle or camel bag 1 – Capacity to carry 3 litre of water. Options: 2 x 1.5 litre wide mouth nalgene bottles or 2 litre platypus + 1 litre water bottle.
Head light 1 – You will need a headlamp with a good light output for any late-night restroom trips. Petzl make renowned and affordable headlamps.
Knife / Multi tools – 1
Cloth and body wear
Down jacket 1 – You’ll need this for the the evenings at lodge camp when you’re tired, you feel the cold a lot more.
Sleeping bag 1 – rated 0°F, -20°F.
Light or medium wight warm hiking trouser 2 – an option of convertible trousers.
For the colder parts of the trek you’ll need good winter hiking pants – just make sure they are breathable.
Warm liner 1 – For extra warmth in sleeping bag.
Towel
Warm sun hats 1 – lot of heat is lost through your head, so be sure to get a warm thermal hat as well as one that protects your neck from the harsh rays of the sun.
Fleece / jacket and pants 1 – Modern technical fleeces (such as Polartec) make excellent insulation layers.
Windproof jacket and Pants 1 – pants with full-length zips make getting them on and off quick and easy.
Long and half sleeve hiking shirt 3 – As per you body size lightweight, moisture wicking long and short sleeved shirts.
Buff for (neck and head) – 1
Walking boot 1 – We recommend light- to mid-weight waterproof boots with good ankle support.
Gloves / mittens 2 – For the cold nights through the trek, we recommend heavyweight, insulated, preferably water resistant gloves.
Warm hiking socks (wool / synthetic) 3-4, pairs of outer socks and 2-3 pairs of liner socks. We also recommend bringing 1 x thick thermal socks for winter hike.
Gaiter 1 – Help keep your trousers clean in dusty, wet and muddy trail conditions
Flip flap/ Sandal 1 – To wear around after a day’s trek we recommend bringing a pair of sandals
Sun protection, health hygiene and water
Sun cream 1 – SPF 40+ Sunscreen is very important as the sun’s rays are much stronger at altitude.
Sun glass 2 – (incase of one broke) choose high UV protection glasses of any brand as sun intensity after 3500 is very high.
Sun hat 1 – if possible go for a hat that is wide-brimmed for protection, and has a neck cover if you aren’t going to be wearing a neck gaiter
Lip guard 1 – To keep your lip moisturized in dry air and the stronger sun ray
Tooth brush – 1
Face wash soap – 1
Sanitizer wipes – 2/2
Electrolyte/Sports drink powdered formula for adding to your water Water can get pretty boring, so it’s a good idea to bring along an electrolyte formula that’s flavored to your liking.
Snacks: Energy bars of your preference – plan for 2-4 per day Snacks such as energy bars, trail mix, and candy can help give you a quick energy boost while on the trail. Just avoid anything with caffeine in it.
Ear plugs – For light sleepers. Snoring travels in quiet high altitude lodges
Prescription medicine
Water purifier tablet / lightweight pen filter
Toilet paper – Bring two rolls of toilet paper, one to keep in your daypack for use on the trail, and one in your duffel for use at tea house camp. Taking the cardboard center out makes it easier to transport.
Menstrual product for her
Diamox (if using)
Blister plasters – different shapes and sizes
Antibiotic cream or ointment
Hairbrush/comb
Foot powder
Nail cutter
Personal belonging items
Passport
Cash Visa / credit card
Cell phone
Power bank backup and charger – The standard voltage of electricity in Nepal is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric or electronic appliances in Nepal without a voltage converter.
Camera / Gopro
Reservation cancellations policy
There will be no fees associated with cancellations made more than 45 days prior to departure.
A penalty of 30% of the total trip cost will apply for cancellations made between 30 and 44 days prior to departure.
60% of the total trip cost will be lost for cancellations made between 15 and 29 days prior to departure.
If a cancellation is made 14 days prior to departure, there will be no reimbursement.
Additional specifications
When making your reservation, please let us know about any special needs you may have so that we can make responsible efforts to accommodate your requests and special requirements, as long as the locations and resources allow.