Situated just east of one of the most popular treks of Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp trek, the Mardi Himal trek is a hidden gem. Few trekkers make their way to the Mardi Himal Base Camp spectacularly situated at the base of Mardi Himal and the impressive Machapuchhre. The Mardi Himal trek can be completed between 4-7 days depending on your requirements.
The Mardi Himal Trek is an ideal substitute of Upper Mustnag trek or for those of us who are looking for an 'off the beaten path' trekking experience in the quieter parts of the Annapurna region of Nepal Fantastic Mardi Himal Trek is located just east of one of the most legendary trekking destination of Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp. Mardi Himal is an unseen gem yet. Few trekkers make their way to the Mardi Himal Base Camp outstandingly positioned at the base of Mardi Himal and the Annapurna region´s most iconic mount Machapuchhre literally meaning “Fish tail”. The trail goes along small winding paths, through enchanted rhododendron forests until you climb out of the forest at an elevation around 3,300 meter. The landscape changes quite abruptly into a rugged high mountain landscape, with amazing views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
When to trek?
Mid Sept-October – November is Autumn Season: this is Nepal´s peak and best time to go trekking. March – May is the second best season of year to go trekking. December – January -February: the skies are clear but it can get very cold and there is a risk of passes being closed due to snow fall.
May – June: This is Nepal´s hot pre-monsoon season and it can get very warm indeed. The valleys however are starting to bloom with flowers though green leaves come up, still a good time to trek.
June – Mid September: this is Monsoon season and the least popular time to go trekking in Nepal. The risk of leeches, downpours increases greatly. Due to the early forested areas leeches at this time of year in Mardi Himal are quite active! Wear long trekking trousers tucked in at this time of year.
Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary will be 5 to 7 days from/to Pokhara and 1 to 2 days transportation day from/to Kathmandu depending on time you have and level of your physical fitness. This can be combined with other related treks to Annapurna; many people combine this trek with Ghandruk, Sikless, Khopa Kair Lake Trek, Upper Mustang trek etc.
Martin Wynn
1 comment
Loved the way explain. Mardi Himal trek is being more popular nowadays and its one of the best short trek in Nepal. Thanks for taking your time to write about Mardi Himal.