The Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal's Annapurna Region is a popular destination, but the numerous trekking routes and varying durations can be confusing for trekkers. This blog will outline the most popular Mardi Himal trekking trails and packages.
The Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal's Annapurna Region is a popular destination, but the numerous trekking routes and varying durations can be confusing for trekkers. This blog will outline the most popular Mardi Himal trekking trails and packages.
While a 2-day Mardi Himal trek exists during spring and summer with longer daylight hours, it's not recommended for everyone due to the fast pace. This 2-day Mardi Himal Trek option starts and ends in Pokhara.
2 Day Mardi Himal Trek outline trip plan
A slightly longer option is the 3-day Mardi Himal Trek, also starting and ending in Pokhara. While this route might miss villages like Pothana and Dhampus, it still offers stunning mountain scenery and is ideal for those short on time who prioritize reaching the Mardi Himal viewpoint for sunrise and breathtaking views. This 3-day trek is possible from Kathmandu after taking an early morning flight to Pokhara, and after the trek, the same late evening flight to Kathmandu.
3 Day Mardi Himal Trek route plan
This moderately paced route, popular with families, corporate groups, and slower hikers, starts in Dhampus village. During the summer, the forests along the trail showcase vibrant flowers and foliage. If you prefer dramatic mountain views, consider the Kalimati route, which offers less time in the forest and more time above the treeline with constant mountain vistas.
4 Day Mardi Himal Trek route plan
Ideal for those seeking an easy to moderate hiking experience, this route features daily hikes of 4-5 hours with opportunities to enjoy birdsong, colorful landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna alongside the majestic mountains. Beginners can join this 5-day trekking route plan.
5 Day Mardi Himal Trek route plan
The complete 10-day Mardi Himal Trekking package, which covers Kathmandu hotels, Pokhara hotels,Trekking Maps, Trek Permits, and all the ground transportation, is also listed on our website. This is the perfect trekking package itinerary, which is easy and does not require any pressure from hotels or transportation. Book a complete package and relax on your holiday!
I can't decide between Ghorepani and Mardi Himal. This 7-day option perfectly combines both treks! Ghorepani offers panoramic views, cultural immersion, and diverse nature, while the Mardi Himal trek provides breathtaking close-up mountain views. Images below from Ghorepani Poon Hill and Mardi Himal viewpoints showcase the contrasting scenic experiences. Many trekkers love Ghorepani Ghandruk for its cultural charm and panoramic vistas, while others praise the Mardi Himal viewpoint for its proximity to Mt. Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hunchuli Mountain.
7-Day Mardi Himal Ghorepani Trek route plan
Optional: Mardi Himal Yoga Trek Package route for 8 days
This is one of the longest trekking packages in the Annapurna foothills, which covers Mardi Himal viewpoint, Khopra Danda, Mulde Hill, Ghorepani Poonhill, Ghandruk village, and Mohare Danda viewpoint. If you are looking for long holidays and want to explore the nature of Annapurna Foothill, then this Mardi Himal Foothill trek is the perfect trek plan.
14-Day Mardi Himal Annapurna Foothills Trek Route Plan.
Rugged Trails Nepal organizes all these Mardi Himal trek routes upon request. Most packages are listed on our website under the Annapurna Region Trekking Routes, Best Selling Treks from Pokhara, and Short Trekking Routes sections. Join us in 2024 or 2025 and explore the Himalayas with our experienced mountain guides. Above, we have listed all the possibilities and options for the Mardi Himal Trek routes; you can pick the one that is best for you.
As mentioned above, the shortest Mardi Himal trek is 2 days, but a 3-to-5-day itinerary is perfect for most people.
The starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek depends on the length of your trek. For a short 3-day trek, Kalimati, Pitam Deurali, or Siding are the starting points. If you're doing a 5-day trek, then Dhampus Pothana village is the best choice.
The trek is moderate to easy, but the difficulty depends on the route you choose. Starting from Siding Village will be quite tough for those with knee or breathing problems because of the constant ascent on the stairs. Dhampus Pothana village or Kalimati are suggested for an easier journey.
Proper trekking gear is essential, regardless of the season. You'll need clothing appropriate for the month and season, proper walking boots, hiking poles (helpful), rain jackets, and crampons if you're planning during the winter season. Salt is recommended if you're trekking during the monsoon season to ward off leeches. You can prepare yourself physically 1-2 months before the trek by doing activities like cycling, yoga, or running.
As mentioned above, the Mardi Himal trek can be easy, but it depends on your hiking experience and the chosen route. The shortest route will be harder, while longer routes tend to be easier. Remember, the terrain in Nepal is not flat.
Both treks are excellent, but they offer different experiences. The Mardi Himal trek is better for close-up mountain views and dramatic landscapes. On the other hand, the Poon Hill trek offers spectacular panoramic views that you won't see from Mardi Himal. Simply put, Mardi Himal offers a "nose-to-nose" mountain experience, while Poon Hill provides a wider, panoramic view.
The total distance of the Mardi Himal Trek depends on the chosen trekking route plan. Generally, the shortest route is 31 to 41 kilometers total from Pokhara.