Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty and Preparation
The Short Mardi Himal Trek has been termed moderately difficult. This means it is somewhat suitable for trekkers with previous experience or at least good physical fitness.
However, the real trail has steep ascents, rocky terrain, and narrow ridges—features that sometimes make the trek physically demanding.
The Mardi trek involves 5-7 hours of hiking daily on steep terrains that require a reasonable level of fitness. You will also be going up to a moderately high peak, though the highest altitude you will achieve will be at Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is about 4500m.
Therefore, you may experience altitude sickness at this height, not to mention when you rush through the required acclimatization.
The genuine difficulty of the Mardi Himal Trek is that the altitude always fluctuates; thus, it ascends and descends every day you trek. This may be a challenge on the knees and legs if you are not used to mountain trails.
The weather up the mountains can also be very devilish at times. Affected by global climate change, trekkers must be surprised by the increasing or decreasing temperature, wind, and snow in mountainous areas.
Physical exercise, including walking, jogging, or climbing uphill, is recommended to prepare for this trek. One should also get the right equipment to acquire the skills.
Best Time For Mardi Himal Trek
Trekking in Mardi Himal is best during spring, the months of March, April, and May, and autumn, September, October, and November. The weather is quite stable in these months: it is mainly clear, and the views of the surrounding hills open up to their full advantage.
In spring, it becomes possible to observe rhododendron forests when these trees bloom. The flowers turn on at night and give quite a vivid impression against the tall and snowy mountains in the backdrop.
Besides the flowers, temperatures remain fairly reasonable in spring, and I know that momentum is good for trekking because the cold is not extreme, and neither is the heat.
Normally, autumn brings clear skies and very good views of the Himalayas as the air becomes crisp and clean, with all that dust washed away after the monsoon rains.
The most spectacular mountain ranges, including the celebrated Machhapuchhre-Fishtail and Annapurna ranges, will then be possible to see. These months also see fewer weather disruptions, making the treks even more comfortable and certain.
This means that during winter, from December to February, it may be slightly difficult and less accessible because of the snow and freezing temperatures at higher altitudes.
The monsoon, which falls from June to August, is the time of heavy rain, leeches, and slithy trails, which makes this time the most unsuitable time to trek.
A Typical Day on the Short Mardi Himal Trek
A typical day on the Mardi Himal Trek starts at about 6:00 AM with a cup of tea or coffee right from the house where one is as a wake-up call.
After packing up and having breakfast, the trekking day would usually begin at about 7:00 AM. It is also preferred to trek early in the morning because the weather is generally moderate in the morning, and the sky is clear with incredible vistas.
You will walk for 2-3 hours on trails, starting in forested areas and progressing to a more bird-only singing environment with open ridges and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
After 3 – 4 hours of hard trekking, you will be taken to a local tea house for lunch, which generally includes dal bhat, noodles, or fried rice.
Afternoon treks always begin an hour or two later than morning treks. The afternoon walks can become a struggle once the heat comes on and the legs feel like lead.
However, the scenery remains the same as one ascends to a higher country. By mid-afternoon, there will be the next teahouse, where you will be lodged for the night.
There, you will have time to share some thoughts with fellow trekkers or locals, have a warm meal, and then go to bed.
As the sun sets, night on the mountain is often quiet, and most trekkers sleep early so that they can wake up and face a new day on the mountain.
Mardi Himal Trek Accommodation
Accommodations on the Mardi Himal Trek perfectly blend comfort and simplicity.
If you are touring cities like Pokhara or Kathmandu, you will be kept in three-star standard hotels with modern facilities, such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, and comfortable beds. These are ideal hotels to rest in before and after your trek.
However, once you're on the Mardi Trekking trail, the accommodations are a little more Spartan. You'll be staying in traditional tea houses or small, family-run lodges that provide a simple bed, primary meals, and a roof overhead.
Tea houses in Mardi are located at varying standards according to the location, but generally, they are cozy and clean.
Shared rooms with essential bedding will be the norm, and shared bathrooms that don't all have hot water.
Tea houses offer a great opportunity to experience local hospitality, but comfort is secondary to the adventure.
If you like your privacy, there is an option for Single Supplementary, where you can get a private room. Please remember that only some stops have private rooms, especially at the trek's higher and more remote sections.
Meals while on the Mardi Nepal Trek
As for meals, there is an apparent difference between what you will receive in the cities and what you can expect while on the trek.
In the cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, the bulk of packages usually only include breakfast, and lunch and dinner are entirely up to you to choose whatever variety you'd like to try from different restaurants and local foods.
Nevertheless, when on the trek, all food- breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be offered in the tea houses where you spend a night.
The meals are healthy and plain for them as a way of feeding themselves throughout the day.
Dal Bhat, a simple meal including rice, lentils, and vegetables, is the simplest, though many trekkers will depend on the food as it is filling and will give them energy.
The other choices are rice, noodles, pasta, soups, and pizza, depending on the tea house in question. Requirements for vegetarian, non-vegetarian, vegan, and halal meals are addressed; however, you have to be aware that vegan and halal foods are scarce during the trek.
The number and types of meals prepared by the villages are small, so if you are a vegetarian, suffer from allergies, or have any other food restrictions, it's better to buy extra food or let your guide know about it.
Mardi Himal Trek – Drinking Water
On the way, bottled water can be bought from tea houses; however, please make sure you properly recycle/discard them to eliminate the rate of littering in these excellent conservation areas.
A very good substitute for them is to take along a refilled water bottle and water purification tablets or a water filter that can be carried along to filter water from these sources.
Most teahouses have installed water streams and taps, but guests should boil the water before drinking it. It is very important to always drink enough water during the day, especially when at a higher level.
Mobile Reception and Internet Access
Mobile reception is available for most parts of the Mardi Himal Trek, but it gets weaker and less dependable as you gain altitude. You will not have reception in more remote parts of the trek.
Generally speaking, internet access will be available at some of the tea houses, and yes, Wi-Fi facilities are available at extra cost.
Internet access and speed/reliability can be hit or miss in these places. It's best to rely on something other than it for meaningful communication.
Purchasing a local SIM card is a good idea if being connected is vital. You can buy data before the trek - even then, the service will be spottier.
Electric plugs and adapters for the Nepal Mardi trek
Electric plugs are available in most tea houses on the route, but access is limited, and charging sometimes requires extra payment.
The electricity supply in the Mardi Himal tea houses comes from solar energy; hence, it is only sometimes available during unfavourable weather.
You will find Type C, D, and M sockets in most parts of Nepal with an average voltage of 230 volts.
Please bring your portable charger or a power bank to charge during emergencies. It is highly recommended that you also bring a universal adapter, as the plug types in Nepal may vary from normal use, and you will want to ensure you can connect your devices.
Group Joining/Fixed Departure for the Trip
Fixed departure is an option for travellers who love being social. It provides a common platform to trek together with fellow like-minded travellers.
People from different countries usually participate in fixed departure dates, so it's an added feature that gives you an outstanding opportunity to make new friends while you are trekking.
These group treks are also, in general, much cheaper because the guides' and porters' services, among other things, are split between group members.
The schedule is fixed, so there is little flexibility; however, it provides a more structured and cost-effective means of tackling the trek.
Private Trip
When one books a private trek, they can create an itinerary that best suits them, considering their level of fitness and the time they could devote to it.
Whether travelling with family, friends, or solo, this private trip allows you flexibility in walking at your own pace, lodging, or having food as you desire.
You will have your guide and porter; the trek can be adjusted to your budget and time.
This is an ideal option for trekkers who wish to travel in privacy or would like to take their time along the trail without the crowds of a group schedule.
Commonly Asked Questions
In how many days does the short Mardi Himal Trek ordinarily last?
The short Mardi Himal trek lasts approximately 3 to 4 days of walking, depending on one's speed or the kind of package one is on.
How challenging is the Mardi Himal Trek?
Trekking is considered moderate, so physical fitness is required. It has a few steep rises and falls, but overall, it is little compared to most of the treks in the Annapurna region.
What is the highest altitude on the Mardi Himal Trek?
The highest point on this trek is at the base of the Mardi Himal Trek, which reaches up to 4,500 meters or 14,764 feet.
What about the best time to trek Mardi Himal?
It is recommended to trek in spring, between March and May, and in autumn, from September to November, because the weather and visibility are favourable.
What permission is needed to undertake the Mardi Himal Trek?
You will need two permits: a TIMS card and another ACAP.
How do you reach the beginning point for the Mardi Himal Trek?
This trek typically begins from Kande. Many individuals have recently engaged in it. It takes about 1.5 to 3 hours to travel from Pokhara to Kande. You can get there by car or public bus.
What should I bring on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Your packing should include a hat, gloves, scarf, jackets, raincoats, sturdy, waterproof crampon-compatible boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles/sticks, a quick medical first aid kit, washing soap, etc.
How safe is trekking to Mardi Himal?
They mean the physical and health risks involved in trekking through this area.
The trek is manageable, especially if one is with a guide or stakeholders or receives constant weather briefings.
During the trek, what kind of house will I be provided?
Meals and lodges are primarily simple tea houses on the way; even simple lodges provide elementary facilities.
Is there any day that is not included in the trekking days in the hike?
The standard itineraries do not include core rest days; nevertheless, this can be arranged if necessary. However, the trek is only partially devoid of such opportunities, as the days within the trek's schedule also include shorter days during which one could rest.
Which food do we receive during the trek?
So, you can get Nepali staple food' dal'—lentil soup served with rice—at the teahouses on the way, as well as local cuisine and some Western dishes such as pasta and pancakes.
Is Mardi Himal Trek suitable for first time trekkers?
The trek requires average fitness, so beginners can attempt it. It's made quite easy, but it still has enough challenges to keep it fun.
What kind of animals are likely to be found in that area?
Since it is a place of biodiversity, visitors may also meet different types of birds and animals, including monkeys and deer.
Packing List
We have prepared a detailed packing list to help you prepare for the trek in Mardi Himal.
Booking Procedure
When the trip is confirmed, we will send you a traveller's information form and a pro-forma invoice. You may confirm your space through us with a deposit, which is 20% of the total price of your trip, via wire transfer, online payment, or PayPal. You can pay the rest of the amount before the journey commences through wire transfer, credit/debit card, payment through PayPal, cash, or online payment.
Note: For payment by online wire transfer, please note that the wire usually hits our account in 1-2 working days, and in cases of wire transfers, it usually takes 3 to 5 working days. When the payment hits our account, we will inform you and provide an official invoice.
Cancellation Policy
From the Traveler's End:
Before six months of the trip commencement: The agency will retain 20% of the deposits paid for the booking.
3 Months before the trip: 25% of the Trip Booking Deposit will be deducted.
2 Months before the trip: 50% of the Trip Booking Deposit will be deducted.
1 Month before the trip: 100% of the Trip Booking Deposit will be deducted.
If you cancel it for any reason, your deposit with us will be safe for up to 3 years. Prices may vary at the time of rescheduling, depending upon market conditions.
From Our End (In Case of Cancellation):
If any unexpected circumstance occurs that forces us to cancel your trip, you will receive a full refund of the deposit paid for the trip, regardless of how long it has been since the commencement of the trip.
