Trip Overview

The untouched Mardi Himal Trek is certainly a hidden treasure in the Annapurna region. Mardi Himal trek was discovered only very recently around 2012 and instantly it got to its fame due to its impressive views and experience. This trek is undoubtedly an ideal pick for those novice trekkers who fancy experiencing trekking into the wilderness and at the same time wish to be in nature’s serenity in different to the maddening popular trekking destinations. Mardi Himal Fishtail Trek is truly a gem blessed with very dramatic scenic beauty. This epic trek is very remote, untouched by the outside world, and one of the ultimate off the beaten track that delivers you the real trekking experience into the wild. Besides a delightful walk into the time-honored lush woodland of pine, rhododendron, and bamboo it offers you a remarkable view of Mardi Himal (5,587m / 18,330 feet), the Holy Machhapuchare (Fishtail) (6,993m / 22,942 feet), Hiunchuli (6,441m / 21,131 feet) and Annapurna South (7219m / 23,684 feet). 

Legend states that Colonel Jimmy Roberts in 1957 tried to climb the holy Fishtail mountain (Machhapuchare) but the authority forbade him to climb in relevance to Machhapuchare being the holy mountain. So he was authorized to climb the Mardi Himal instead. 

This 11 Days classical Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most peaceful journey that gives travelers an exceptional prospect of Nepal, which is simply phenomenal. The region of Annapurna that offers so much variation in terms of hiking, trekking, and climbing, Mardi Himal trek proves to be a heaven. If by any chance you have the opportunity to trek this region around April (spring) season, you would be amazed to find yourself in a paradise-like setting with different color Rhododendron blooming and the awesome view in contrast to the flowering is mindboggling. It’s a trek that starts from tropical and leads you to the alpine within a short period of time giving you the genuine trekking experience. Mardi Himal lies to the east of Annapurna Base Campand it's designed to deliver the reconciliation that people wish for.  

The beauty of Mardi Himal Trek:

This enchanting trek starts with driving to the beautiful Pokhara, “The Lake City” and the second home of the tourist. Pokhara is a naturally blessed city of Nepal situated at the lap of the Holy Fishtail mountain and the splendor of which cannot be compared. The holy Machhapuchare (Fishtail) dominates the horizon that elegantly reflects itself in the Phewa Lake with its absolute magnificence. Overnight stay at Pokhara undoubtedly makes your day with further hope of beauty and anticipation. We drive to Kande and walk to Deurali, a short walk through the forest with panoramic Annapurna range at the backdrop. As we ascend further we are enveloped more into the providence of nature with lush forest, varied species of flora and fauna, series of the waterfall, and the untouched natural abode, the sanctity of the dwelling spirits.

Mt. Fishtail (Machhapuchare) dominates the entire valley that stands high with its elegance and beauty.  This least explored trail is considered by many as ‘wonderland’, a dreamland far away from home that has the property and the power to spellbind anyone who arrives. After we get to the upper viewpoint for the glorifying view of the mountains that rise high above the clouds we celebrate our achievement with contentment. Soon we start heading back to the village of Lwang, the number one homestay destination of Nepal. Subsequently, we head back to Pokhara and drive back to the capital city of Kathmandu concluding our Mardi Himal Trek with contentment.  

Finally, all this makes Annapurna Mardi Himal trek as one of the best short off the beaten teahouse trek in Nepal.

Highlights

  • Welcome dinner at the Royal Traditional Nepal Restaurant followed by a cultural dance. 
  • Enchanting drive to Pokhara with an exceptional view of beautiful landscape, gorges, and farming terraces along with a glimpse of snow-clad mountains at the backdrop.
  • Being in Pokhara (820m), "The Lake City", the second home of the tourists.
  • Adorable drive to Kande over the elevated hill with the stunning view.
  • Beautiful walk to Australian Camp that delivers you the most gorgeous view of the mountain.
  • Further walk to Deurali through woodland with the chances to witness few wildlife and floras.
  • Get along with the Gurung, the peace-loving people of the region.
  • going along beautiful cultured Gurung village with a grand view of traditional farming terraces and extensive vibrant green hills.
  • This off beaten track ascends through the overwhelming setting of pristine oak and rhododendron forest to the alpine village that has very newly opened.
  • Enjoy the home stay facility at the basic tea houses with a theatrical view of holy mountain Fishtail, Mardi Himal, and many other sky-high peaks.
  • As you get to the alpine it delivers the miraculous views of Mardi Himal, Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
  • An adventurous walk over the extended ridge to the upper viewpoint for a rewarding view.
  • Finally getting back to Pokhara and doing activities like paragliding, zip-lining, or bungee jumping.
  • The beautiful drive back to the capital city of Kathmandu.

Itinerary

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Our representative will be at the airport to receive you and he/she will transfer you to the hotel where pre-trek briefing and other information will be given. Arrangements will be made today for the distribution of trekking equipment like duffel bag, down jacket, sleeping bag, etc. The evening will be highlighted by a traditional Royal Nepali cuisine as a perfect end of your very arrival day in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Meals Welcome Dinner

Departure time can be set according to our convenience as we are taking our private vehicle. However it is better to start earlier as the traffic condition is better in the morning as well as the weather. The drive is approximately 6 Hrs. in a private vehicle including the stops for tea and lunch. Pokhara the most beautiful city and Nepal's second-largest lake city is simply phenomenal. As we leave the capital city, we follow the winding road over the valley rim and descends onto the valley where the Trishuli River follows The journey is slow and steady as the road winds through villages passing terraces fields and we soon catch glimpses of the high eye-catching mountain ranges of Ganesh, Manaslu, and Annapurna. Normally, we arrive at Pokhara by mid-afternoon so you have time to explore this pretty lake city. You can even hire a boat to visit the Island of Barahi temple and get some great photos from the middle of Phewa Lake. We will stay at the hotel in Pokhara.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Meals Breakfast
  • Time 6-7 Hours

Approximately one hour drive via amazing terrain of Naudanda with the most amazing view of Annapurna and Fishtail takes us to Kaande, a small settlement on Pokhara Baglung highway.  After taking some time to freshen up, we start our climb toward Australian Camp. It is a beautiful walk through Oak and Needle-wood tree forest for about 3 hours. Australian camp has is small but beautiful settlement with splendid views of Annapurna range mountains including Fishtail. On clear days the sunrise and sunset on the mountains are mesmerizing.

  • Accommodation Teahouse
  • Meals B/L/D
  • Time 1Hour Drive + 3 Hours walk

After having the breakfast with magnificent views of Annapurna range mountains we slowly continue our Journey. It will take approximately 3 hours walk with small ups and downs to reach Deurali (2100m) where we will have lunch. After Lunch its about 2:30 hours walk on a beautiful ridge to the Forest Camp, a small settlement in the middle of Oak and Rhododendron Forest.

  • Accommodation Basic Teahouse
  • Meals B/L/D
  • Time 6 - 7 Hours

Climbing Gradually on the ridge through the Rhododendron Forest, we will reach Low Camp (2970m), a small opening in the forest. We will have Lunch here and after Lunch its about one hour uphill to Badal Danda, which is basically one teahouse but has magnificent mountain views.

  • Accommodation Teahouse
  • Meals B/L/D
  • Time 5 Hours

As we are already at high altitude, we will take it slow. It is about 3 hours gradual uphill along the ridge to High Camp. As we walk above the tree line there will be plenty of opportunities to capture beautiful pictures of Annapurna Range mountains. We will  arrive high camp for lunch. Rest of the day can easily be spent by admiring the incredible views. 

  • Accommodation Teahouse
  • Meals B/L/D
  • Time 3 Hours

Today is certainly the main Highlight of the trek.  After approximately 2 hours walk along the ridge, we reach the Upper View Point (4250m), undoubtedly the best view point on the trek. The close up views of Machhapuchchhre or Fishtail (The holy mountain) and Annapurna South along with many more Annapurna range mountain feels unreal. Most of the trekkers return from the Upper View Point but some fit trekkers continue their walk to the Base Camp of Mardi Himal , which is approximately one hour uphill from the Upper View Point. The way back is litlle quicker. We stop for Lunch at High Camp and continue down to Badal Danda. Expect an Early Wake Up Call.

  • Accommodation Basic Teahouse
  • Meals B/L/D
  • Time Total 7 Hours

From Badal Danda we retrace our way for 30 minutes to Low Camp and then we take a different path down towards the magnificent Gurung Villages. After 3 hours Downhill through the beautiful Rhoddendron, Oak and Needle-wood tree forest we arrive at Sidhing, a beautiful Gurung settlement on the side of Mardi Khola. We will Have Lunch at Sidhing and Continue our way to Ghalel Village, where we can enjoy authentic Gurung Culture and their Indulgent Hospitality.

Being the Last night in the mountains its time to celebrate your achievements. A nice place to express your gratitude to the trekking staff.

  • Accommodation Teahouse
  • Meals B/L/D
  • Time 5-6 Hours

Approximately 1:30 hours walk with small ups and down takes you to Lwang Village, Another beautiful Gurung Settlement. Its worth spending some time observing Gurung Culture as well as the beautiful Tea Garden and the Local Tea factory. From Lwang we take a Jeep to Pokhara.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Meals Breakfast/Lunch
  • Time 1:30 hours walk + 1:30 hours Drive

After about a week trekking in the mountains flying back to Kathmandu is a better option. Its about 20 minutes scenic flight observing the massive Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Langtang range mountains. We normally take a flight around 10 AM so that we arrive to Kathmandu for Lunch. Rest of the day is free.

  • Accommodation 3 Star Hotel
  • Meals Breakfast
  • Time 30 minutes

Your Group leader will accompany you to the airport. The transportation is Included in your package.

  • Meals Breakfast
  • Time 30 minutes
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Trip inclusion

  • All Essential permits.
  • Airport pickups and drops facility.
  • Three-star twin bed sharing hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on Bed / Breakfast basis.
  • Welcome dinner at Typical Nepali Restaurant.
  • All Government and Local tax.
  • Private Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and to and from the starting points.
  • Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. 
  • Fundamental trekking gears like a sleeping bag, down jacket fleece liner, etc.
  • Teahouse accommodation on twin bed-sharing.
  • All Standard Meals (B/L/D) During the trek along with the choice of Hot Beverage.
  • Filtered or Boiled Water for drinking during the trek.
  • An accomplished trekking Group Leader.
  • All Ground Staff – Their Allowances and Insurance.
  • Oxygen cylinders and an all-inclusive medical kit on all trips.
  • Take away Himalayan Dynasty duffle bag, T-shirt and trekking Map, and Buff (multi-functional head-wear)
  • Fee levied on a Nepali visa.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • All personal expenses including laundry, battery charges, shower, wifi etc.
  • International flight fares.
  • A medical examination or emergency rescues.
  • Donations and Entrance fee to Monasteries, Temples, Museums, Schools etc.
  • Staff Tipping.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu on early arrival or late departure.
  • Travel or medical insurance.
  • Optional tours and sightseeing or any activities during free time.

Useful Information

IN KATHMANDU/ POKHARA

All of our treks in Nepal start with at least one day in Kathmandu. On arrival, you should proceed through Customs / Immigration.  Once you have passed through Immigration please collect your baggage and proceed through the exit point where you will meet HIMALAYAN DYNASTY representative with the company’s’ CLIP / SIGN BOARD to welcome and transfer you to the designated hotel in Kathmandu.

The hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara would be on a twin bed sharing room in a 3-star hotel on bed and breakfast basis. Trek briefing will be organized in Kathmandu by your Group leader making sure all of the trekkers have proper gears and are prepared for their long-awaited adventure holiday. Should you have any queries feel free to ask your group leader or the hotel reception who are always pleased to assist you. Single supplements would be provided as per the requirement on a trivial additional cost. The evening will be highlighted by a traditional Royal Nepali food in a typical Nepal restaurant which would be a perfect event to get along with your group and break the silence. 

Since we don’t consider drinking water straight from the tap to be safe, we request you to use boiled water or the mineral water provided in your rooms. 

DIFFICULTY 

We usually walk 4 to 5 hours every day excluding Lunch but some days might be longer. Most of the trail is considerably easy. We normally start early so that we could reach our destination at the given time which in return contributes to more space to explore and enjoy the serenity of the place. To make every day more memorable and relaxed we set up a convenient pace for everyone giving you ample time to enjoy and acclimate.

Mardi Himal is a moderate trek offering anyone a great trekking experience with panoramic mountain views. Mardi Himal trek is moderate and doesn't go very high in terms of Altitude like Everest Base Camp. There is less probability of getting AMS while doing this trek and there is very low probablity of altitude illness. It is attainable for anyone with sound fitness. We start from subtropical through a very established trail gradually walking into the alpine terrain on a beaten track but mostly undulating – which means certain walking experience into the wild is necessary. 

Anybody of any age group can join as our itineraries are intended to make the trip more pleasing than exhausting nonetheless, we recommend pre-physical training and your doctors’ consent in regards to personal ailments, weak ankle/knee, blood pressure, heart problem, etc.

CULTURAL CONSIDERATION

Since Nepal has only been open to the outside world since 1951 and despite in the midst of great social transformation, Nepal still thrives as a very spiritual and conventional country. Though Nepali people consider foreigners as special guest yet they are expected to respect and respond to the Nepalese customs, social norms, and beliefs sensitively. Nudity and presenting of an intimate relationship are totally unacceptable. Typically, they greet with a ‘Namaste’ "Nah-mah-stay", it’s a gesture of greeting which is performed by placing our hands together to our heart and slightly bow our head. Namaste literally means "I bow to the divine in you".

Respect holy places – preserve what you have come to see, never touch or remove religious objects. When entering any Nepalese home, temples, and monasteries, always remove your shoes. When taking photographs, respect privacy – ask for permission and use restraint. Many Hindu temples may not be open to non-Hindus. Always ask permission before entering.

While giving or taking anything Nepalese use two hands which is a symbol of respect rather than doing it with just one hand. However, offering things to the begging children is highly discouraged because it only encourages begging. If you would like to donate to any school or charity organization, your group leader will always be there to guide you to do it in an appropriate method.

YOUR VALUABLE SAFETY: STORAGE:

While in Kathmandu please do not leave your room unlocked. If you are out on a short stroll or on any appointments, make sure to accommodate and secure your valuables – that can either be in your locked luggage or hotel safety deposit box. 

Before we depart for our incredible adventure your leader will organize a safety store facility for your left luggage and the safety deposit box for your valuables that you wish to leave behind. However, please follow the hotel safety guideline over the loss of key to your deposit box.  While trekking never leave your valuables unattained. It’s always safe to carry them on your daypack. Make sure to lock your Tea-House rooms while going out even if it’s for a short time period.  In case of loss or theft please report it to the nearest police check post where you need to obtain a written report. In any such situation, your group leader would be the best person to talk to. 

ACCOMMODATION:

Accommodation on Mardi Himal Trekking is essentially in the tea-house that will be basic on twin bed sharing room with common toilets. Rooms with attached toilets and the single supplement will be provided depending on the availability as not all destinations in the Annapurna region offer a single supplement due to the limitation of tea-houses over the restrictions and obligations of National park rules and regulations. In some parts of the Mardi Himal Trek we will be staying in the Homestay Fascilties which offer you authentic Nepali meals.

FOOD

In Kathmandu breakfast is included beside the welcome dinner in a Typical Nepali restaurant that would serve Traditional Royal Nepal Food. Since food is not included in your package, travelers are to shoulder the cost of all their food and drinks. In the Annapurna region, you have the option to choose your breakfast, lunch, and dinner with hot beverages from the menu that has multiple selections. However, your leader would recommend food variation depending on the availability as much as possible that is good for your health in the mountains, nutritious, plentiful, and tasty. In our entire trip, we will eat all the meals in the local Tea-houses including our lunch and our staff will make sure that your food is prepared with hygiene. We can also cater for specific dietary needs if you advise in advance besides our delicious mixture of Nepalese, Indian, Chinese, and continental food. However in some ocassions we will be staying in the Homestay Fascilities run by households where you will be enjoying the authentic local food.

AIRPORT PORTER

We highly suggest you to separate US$ 1 OR 2 only to pay the bell boy in the Hotel. We strongly suggest NOT TO TIP OR GIVE AWAY ANY OF YOUR BAGS to any of the AIRPORT PORTERS on your arrival in the Kathmandu Airport other than the Himalayan Dynasty Representative. Do check your bags while loading into the provided car/van for the hotel.

TIPPING GUIDANCE

Tipping is an entirely personal matter. - It is also an indication of your satisfaction with the service delivered by our local trekking crew. As they work really hard to make your holiday the most memorable one, tipping is more like a token of gratitude for saying THANK YOU to your local crew. As a guideline, average tipping is around 10% of your trip cost per trekker. Many people also like to donate various items of equipment to the porters and trek staff who would very warmly receive these items. Your Group Leader will make arrangements for a fair distribution of your gratitude and the used items (possibly by raffle) amongst the trek crew. We recommend you to make separate tipping for your trekking Group Leader.