5-day Mardi Himal Trek in Pokhara: A Comprehensive Guide

Pokhara, in Nepal, is home to many of Nepal’s most popular trekking circuits. One of the most stunning treks in the region is the 5-day Mardi Himal Trek. This trek combines a stunning alpine scenery and culture, talking you on a trip through the remote and secluded villages of Mardi Himal. This guide has everything you need to know before embarking on this incredible trek.

Why Is The Mardi Himal Trek Special?

The Mardi Himal Trek is a unique experience, both thanks to its truly stunning landscapes and hidden gems. This trek gives adventurers an insight into the traditional life of the ethnic groups that inhabit these areas. This gives testament to the diversity of Nepal’s cultures, which many trekkers don’t get to experience. In addition, it offers visitors some incredible views of the Himalayas as well as some pristine natural beauty—this is especially true during the spring season, when thousands of colorful flowers are in bloom at its lower levels.

What makes this trek special is its off-the-beaten-track nature. On this trek, you can expect to find roads that have squeezed their way through dense forests and villages that are still relatively untouched by modern influence. In combination with the vivid vegetation and imposing peaks of the Annapurna Massif, this hike provides a journey that is unparalleled in terms of its beauty and unique opportunities to explore. The Mardi Himal Trek can be done in a shorter timeframe than most other treks in Nepal and it offers visitors an immensely satisfying experience.

What Can You Expect Along The Mardi Himal Trek?

The trail of Mardi Himal Trek begins at Chomrong, which is a Gurung Village located close to Pokhara, at an altitude of 2130 meters above sea level. From here, hikers will traverse their way up to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is the highest point of the trek at a stunning altitude of 4560 meters. This 5-day Mardi Himal Trek encompasses many beautiful sights along with its challenging ascent.

On the first day of the trek, from Chomrong, you will arrive at Kuldi which is situated at 2710 meters above sea level and is surrounded by an array of terraced bamboo jungles. On this same day you will come across the Deurali Pass and Machchhapuchhare Base Camp (MBC). On day two, hikers will go through Banthanti and then onto Tadapani, a Gurung Village located at 2590 metres, which offers quintessential epic views of a vast valley surrounded by mountain peaks like Annapurna South and Machchhapuchhare. From Tadapani you will see the undulating, meandering terrains of high ridges and ravines until you reach Ghorepani on your third day, located at an altitude of 2850 meters.

On this same day hikers will have the opportunity to climb Poon Hill for an unbeatable view of sunrise at 3210 meters above sea level, with snow-covered peaks and a myriad of colors lighting up the horizon. The fourth day begins with a down hill walk which leads you from Ghorepani to Low Camp located at 2830 meters above sea level and then onto your final destination—Mardi Himal Base Camp—at 4560 meters above sea level. Here you can witness incredible views of four 8 thousanders: Annapurna I (8091 meters), Annapurna South (7273 meters), Machchhapuchhare (6993 meters), and Hiunchuli (6441 meters).

However bear in mind that to reach Mardi Base camp hikers must pass over a steep ridge before arriving at the glacial lake which lies in front of it. On the fifth and final day you will be making your descent back to Pokhara, after having taken in all the beauty that the Mardi Himal Trek has to offer along the way.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Trek The Mardi Himal Route?

The best time to visit the Mardi Himal Trek would be during Spring (March- May) or Autumn (September- November). During these months weather conditions make it perfect for trekking as temperatures tend to remain in between 2 to 15 degrees Celsius throughout.

In addition, March and April are peak seasons for blooming flowers, thus making it much easier for bird sighting enthusiasts to locate various species like sunbirds, minivets and more. The months between June and August are monsoon season in Nepal, meaning there is a high chance of rain and treacherous trails due to slippery conditions. It’s also possible to visit during winter (December – February), though visibility may be low due to fog and higher altitudes may be snow covered making it difficult for some parts of the trail.

What Gear Is Needed For The Mardi Himal Trek?

Hikers should always be equipped with proper hiking gear before embarking on any trekking adventure. In addition to general hiking attire it is also important to list items specifically needed based on changing weather conditions as you venture further up on the mountain:

• Lightweight thermals (top & bottom)
• Good quality hiking boots
• Hiking backpack (50-60 liters)
• Rain jackets
• Down Jackets
• Gloves
• Headwarmers/Cap/Beanie
• Sunglasses
• Day backpack (25 liters)
• Slippers/Sandal for camp sites
• Refillable water bottle (2 liters)
• Torch/Headlamp
• Sunscreen
• Hat/Buff/Bandanna

It’s also important to always carry snacks like nuts, chocolate bars, dry fruits along with hygiene products like lip balm, tissues etc. and personal medications that may be needed during the course of the trek. Opting for an organized tour can take away all stress as planning will be taken care off while knowledgeable guides may also suggest any additional items that one may need while trekking.

Conclusion

The 5-day Mardi Himal Trek in Pokhara is an alluring journey that definitely serves up spectacular views and lets hikers explore many of Nepal’s uncounted gems. This thrilling excursion allows individuals to navigate across fascinating suspension bridges and up picturesque mountainsides for an adventure that is unforgettable and provides a lifetime’s worth of memories and experiences. However due to its inclines and unpredictable climate change it definitely requires physical stamina and patience before tackling its steep ascents – ultimately it’s worth every calorie burned and step taken! So why wait? Book your Mardi Himal Trek experience with GetYourGuide, gear up with all your glamping essentials and experience this stunning part of Nepal for yourself!