Trip Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek
- Majestic views of mountains such as Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Mardi Himal, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre.
- Walking along the beautiful forest covered with rhododendron.
- A chance to explore the rural villages in the Annapurna Region such as Siding, Liwang, Phedi, etc.
- Trekking up to the Mardi Himal Base Camp itself.
Outline Itinerary for 5 Days Mardi Himal Trek
Day 01: Drive to Kande and trek to Deurali (max altitude 2,125m)
Day 02: Hike to Low Camp (max altitude 3,150m)
Day 03: Trekking to High Camp (max altitude 3,700m)
Day 04: Ascend to Mardi Base Camp and Descend to Siding (max altitude 4,500m)
Day 05: Drive back to Pokhara by jeep
5 days Mardi Himal Trek Best Season
The best time for Mardi Himal Trek is during Autumn and Spring seasons that fall in the month of September, October, November, and March, April and May respectively. Trekking during these months has a lot of benefits due to which these seasons are considered as the peak times for Mardi Himal Trek.
Autumn offers you with favorable weather and temperature. It is the post-monsoon season so you can expect minimum rainfall during this time. However, prepare yourself when trekking in the month of September. You can expect some rain during this time in the Annapurna region.
The average temperature of the Annapurna region remains 15-20 degrees during this season. The weather remains quite stable and cool. The mornings and nights might be chilly.
Likewise, spring is the second favorite time for Mardi Himal Trek for many trekkers. As it is the pre-monsoon period, light rainfall showers occasionally in the Annapurna region. The beauty this season brings is innumerable. Spring regenerates all the natural beauties that were lost during the winter season. You will be able to see rhododendron throughout the trails of your trek.
The daytime temperature of Annapurna region during Spring ranges between 20-23 degrees. The weather becomes very suitable for trekking during Spring.
Trekking Permits for 5 days Mardi Himal Trek
Trekking permits are necessary when you trek to the Annapurna region. Such trekking permits are issued by the Department of Immigration, Nepal. We can arrange your trekking permits if you are willing to trek to the Mardi Himal.
There are two types of trekking permits required for Mardi Himal Trek 5 days. They are Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
TIMS Card
The TIMS Card permit is required for foreign trekkers who are willing to trek to the Mardi Himal. This permit card ensures safety and security for trekkers while trekking. The cost of the TIMS card is Rs. 1000 for group trekkers and Rs. 2000 for individual trekkers.
The cost of the TIMS Card for SAARC nations is Rs. 300 for group trekker and for Individual Trekker is Rs 600 per trekking route per person per entry.
ACAP Permit
Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit is required as you enter to the Annapurna region. The cost of ACAP permit for foreigners is Rs. 2000 and for SAARC nation is Rs. 200.
5 Days Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty
Mardi Himal Trek 5 days is a moderate level trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek does not require any technical training, ropes or any other climbing equipment. However, physical strength is very important as you may have to walk for 7-8 hours a day to reach your destination. Walking for hours might be very tiring for some people.
The chances of getting altitude sickness are less when trekking to the Mardi Himal. However, as you climb to higher altitudes, you may feel shortness in breathing. If you see any symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, dizziness, vomiting, etc, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Weather and temperature also play a great role to determine the difficulty level. During the winter season, you will see most of the trails covered with snow. Walking on the snowy trails may be difficult for some trekkers.
Likewise, most of the people avoid trekking during monsoon season. During monsoon, the trails get muddy and slippery resulting difficulty while walking.
Food and Accommodation during 5 days Mardi Himal Trek
During Mardi Himal Trek, you can find several teahouses and restaurants along the route. Such teahouses will provide you with basic accommodation facility. The hotels and lodges get packed during the peak seasons like Autumn and Spring during the Mardi Himal Trek. You may even have to share your rooms. During the Mardi Himal Trek, Toilet facilities may not be very proper. So, it is better to carry your own toiletries when you trek.
Likewise, the food during the Mardi Himal Trek is quite proper. You will have various options in your food items from breakfast, lunch to dinner. Some of the common meals you will get are Dal Bhat and Tarkari, sandwich, noodles, porridge, bread, pizza, pasta. You will also have some options in beverages from soft drinks to alcoholic beverages.
The food and accommodation get crowded during Mardi Himal Trek in Spring and Autumn seasons. So, if you are planning on trekking during peak seasons, make sure you book for food and accommodation early.
Tips for Mardi Himal Trek 5 Days
Below are some of the tips for 5 days Mardi Himal Trek:
Choose the Appropriate Time
Before planning for your trek, make sure you choose a suitable time for trekking. Generally, Autumn and Spring are the best for trekking but the trekking trails might be crowded. So, if you want a peaceful trekking journey, you can trek to the Mardi Himal during Monsoon and winter seasons too.
Pack Appropriate Trekking Gear
Packing is very important when trekking. Carrying appropriate trekking items play a vital role in making your trek easy and comfortable. Carry rain gear with you if you are trekking during monsoon season. You may not have to carry bulky clothes during Autumn and spring seasons.
Walk slow
During the 5 days trekking to Mardi Himal, you do not have to feel pressured about reaching your destination. It is a short trek and you can reach your destination without rushing your way. Walking slowly is the core when it comes to high altitude trekking.
Hydrate yourself
While trekking, do not forget to carry a water bottle with you. Drinking water will keep you hydrated and energize your body. It would be better to take small breaks between your trek where you can rest and drink some water.
Mardi Himal Trek Without a Guide
Many people have queries regarding whether they can trek to Mardi Himal without a Guide. Trekking to the Mardi Himal without a guide is totally up to you. If you are some who are used to high altitude treks of Nepal, you can trek it without a guide.
Mardi Himal route may not be very difficult and can be done even without a guide. But, if you do want to have easy trekking experience, hiring a guide would be a better option. Hiring a guide means you can always have someone who will assist you throughout your trek. You can also interact with the local villagers with the help of a guide.
Similarly, hiring a porter can also be a good option. Porter is someone who will help you to carry your heavy bags throughout your trek. They can carry up to 10- 15 kilograms of your load.
Mardi Himal Trek Cost for 5 Days
The Mardi Himal Trek cost for 5 days ranges between USD 500- USD 600. This cost is quite affordable for trekkers from all around the world. The cost includes private transportation fees. 2 nights stay at the hotel with breakfast, teahouse accommodation during the trek, cost of the guide, trekking permits, and many more.
However, the cost does not include any additional days you would like to spend. If you would like to accommodation at a luxury hotel, you will have to pay an extra price for your trip. Personal expenses are not included in the cost of Mardi Himal trek.
Final Review
So, Mardi Himal Trek is a short and affordable trek that is achievable by everyone. The trek is for those who dream of having a thrilling trekking adventure but have a busy schedule. As you can complete the whole trek in just 5 days, Mardi Himal Trek can be a good option for you.
Need Help Planning a Trip to Nepal?
So, if you have decided to trek to the Mardi Himal, contact us at Mount Mania. Mount Mania has well-experienced representatives who will help you throughout your journey. If you have any questions regarding your trip to Mardi Himal, do not hesitate to call us.