Mardi Himal Trek on a Tight Budget

Day 1: Pokhara to Kande and Trek to Rest Camp (2,520 m)

Mardi Himal trail. Our travel company, Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd, will arrange private transportation from your Pokhara hotel to Kande after a fulfilling breakfast. The one-hour drive to Kande will be followed by a trek through the scenic trails. As you walk through the typical houses at the start, you will encounter a steep climb of around 40-50 minutes to reach Australian Camp. This spot offers stunning views of the Annapurna Himalayas. From there, a descent of about 20 minutes will take you to Pothana, a small village with a few lodges. You will continue through the forest of rhododendron and oak and walk steeply for about an hour from Pothana to reach Pitam Deurali, where you can find 2-3 guesthouses. The journey still continues through a dense forest and peaceful trails with no tea shops or lodges along the route. After 6 hours of walk from Kande, you will finally reach Rest Camp, one of the best spots to spend the night. You will be able to enjoy the view of the Massif Fishtail and Pokhara in the evening. Though it is a long day, it will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable experiences of your short and budget-friendly Mardi Himal trek.

Day 2: Rest Camp to High Camp (3,580 m)

On Day 2 of the Mardi Himal trek, you will start the day with breakfast at Rest Camp before beginning your trek. The trek is a gradual ascent for about an hour until you reach Low Camp, which has a few lodges where you can rest for a while. The trail then takes you steeply up through the forest most of the time until you reach Badal Danda. This is a beautiful spot where you can enjoy the view and have lunch. After Badal Danda, the trail continues steeply up through the ridge of open hills, offering magical views of the surrounding mountains and the ABC trails to the left valley. After about 5 hours of walking, you will reach High Camp, the last tea house settlement of this trekking. It is an indescribable place for the up-close view of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Fishtail, and Mardi Peak. You can also see rolling hills to the east and south side. You will spend the night at High Camp.

Day 3: High Camp to View Point then Kalimati after drive to Pokhara

On the last day of the Mardi Himal trek, we wake up early in the morning and start hiking towards the Mardi Himal view point. It is the most important day of the trek as we get to witness the breathtaking sunrise view over the Himalayas. We start our hike from High Camp around 4 am with torchlight, some snacks, and water. The trail is steep and takes about 2 hours to reach the view point from High Camp. From the view point, we get an up-close view of Fishtail and Annapurna South mountain ranges along with many other peaks and rolling hills. The sunrise view is simply mesmerizing and will leave you speechless. After spending some time at the view point, we retrace our steps back to Forest Camp and then take a small trail descending to Kalimati. From Kalimati, we will take a private jeep and drive to Pokhara which will take around 2-3 hours. Although it is a long day, it is undoubtedly the best adventure day of your life.

Note: It’s important to note that a 3-day Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara is possible, but it’s not recommended for first-time trekkers, students, kids, families, or those who aren’t adventurous travelers. However, if you are reasonably fit and don’t mind walking for 6-8 hours a day, it’s certainly possible, and it will also save you money.

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

5 tips for saving money on the Mardi Himal trek

• Travel during the off-season: The Mardi Himal trek is less crowded during the off-season, which means that you can get better deals on accommodation and transportation. The off-season for trekking in Nepal is from June to August and from December to January.
• Travel with a group: If you travel with a group, you can share the cost of accommodation, transportation, and guide fees. This can help you save money on the overall cost of the trek.
• Bring your own snacks and water: Snacks and water are available at tea houses along the trail, but they can be expensive. Bringing your own snacks and water can help you save money.
• Stay in tea houses that offer free meals: Some tea houses offer free meals if you stay overnight. This can be a great way to save money on food.
• Negotiate with your guide and porter: If you hire a guide and porter, you can negotiate their fees. Be upfront about your budget and see if they are willing to work with you. This can help you save money on guide and porter fees.

The pros and cons of budget trekking in Nepal

Pros:

• Affordability: Budget trekking in Nepal allows travelers to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty and culture without breaking the bank.
• Cultural experience: Budget trekking often involves staying in teahouses run by locals, providing an authentic cultural experience.
• Flexibility: With a limited budget, travelers can be more flexible in their itinerary, allowing for a more spontaneous and adventurous experience.
• Opportunity to support local communities: Budget trekking often involves supporting local businesses and communities, contributing to sustainable tourism.

Cons:

• Limited amenities: Budget trekking often means basic accommodations, limited food options, and fewer amenities.
• Safety concerns: With a limited budget, travelers may opt for cheaper guides or equipment, potentially sacrificing safety.
• Challenging conditions: Budget trekking may involve longer or more challenging routes, potentially requiring more physical fitness and stamina.
• Weather uncertainties: With a limited budget, travelers may not have the flexibility to wait out poor weather conditions, potentially affecting the overall trekking experience.

What to pack for a budget Mardi Himal trek in Nepal

Here’s a list of essential items you should pack for a budget Mardi Himal trek in Nepal:

• Clothing: Lightweight and quick-drying clothing, waterproof jacket, fleece jacket, trekking pants, thermal underwear, hat, gloves, and socks.
• Footwear: Hiking boots or shoes, flip-flops or sandals for wearing in the teahouses.
• Backpack: A comfortable backpack with a waterproof cover to carry your essentials during the trek.
• Sleeping bag: A lightweight and warm sleeping bag suitable for the trek’s temperature.
• Trekking poles: To provide extra support during the trek and help reduce the impact on your joints.
• Headlamp or flashlight: For use during early morning or nighttime treks.
• Water bottle and water purification tablets: To stay hydrated and avoid the cost of buying bottled water.
• Snacks: High-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, and chocolate for a quick energy boost.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: To protect your skin and eyes from the harsh sun at higher altitudes.
• Personal medication: Any personal medications you require, such as altitude sickness pills or pain relievers.

Remember to pack light and only bring the essentials, as you will have to carry everything on your back during the trek.

How to find and choose a budget-friendly trekking agency in Nepal

When looking for a budget-friendly trekking agency in Nepal for the Mardi Himal trek, there are several things to consider. Here are some tips:

• Do your research: Look online for reviews and recommendations from previous trekkers who have used the agency’s services. Check their website, social media pages, and other online platforms to get an idea of their experience and reputation.
• Check for license and registration: Make sure the agency is registered with the Nepal Tourism Board and has a valid license. This ensures that they are operating legally and following proper safety standards.
• Compare prices: Get quotes from multiple agencies and compare their prices. However, don’t just go for the cheapest option as this may compromise on the quality of services provided.
• Look for experienced guides: Choose an agency that has experienced and knowledgeable guides who are familiar with the Mardi Himal trek and the surrounding areas. This can greatly enhance your trekking experience and ensure your safety.
• Ask about the services included: Make sure to ask what services are included in the package and what additional costs you may incur. Some agencies may offer a cheaper price upfront, but may charge extra for services like meals, accommodation, and equipment rental.

Based on these considerations, we recommend Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd for a budget-friendly Mardi Himal trek. They have a good reputation and experienced guides who can provide you with a safe and enjoyable trekking experience at a reasonable price.

Can you do the Mardi Himal trek independently on a limited budget?

As of April 1, 2023, the Nepal government has made it mandatory for trekkers to have a guide or porter with them on all major trekking routes, including the Mardi Himal trek. This means that it is not possible to do the trek independently on a limited budget.

Having a guide or porter with you can be beneficial, as they can provide assistance, share their knowledge of the area, and help with any language barriers. They can also ensure your safety and help in case of emergencies.

To find a budget-friendly trekking agency in Nepal, you can research online, read reviews, and compare prices. It is important to choose a reputable agency with experienced guides and good customer service. Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd is a recommended trekking agency that offers competitive prices and quality services.

How to get to the Mardi Himal trek starting point without overspending

The starting point of the Mardi Himal trek is at Kande, which is approximately an hour’s drive from Pokhara. Here are some tips on how to get to Kande without overspending:

Public bus: You can take a local public bus from Pokhara to Kande. It is the cheapest option and costs around NPR 50-100. However, it may be crowded and uncomfortable.

Shared jeep: You can also take a shared jeep from Pokhara to Kande. This option is more comfortable than the bus and costs around NPR 200-300 per person. You may have to wait until the jeep fills up with passengers before it departs.

Private taxi/Car: If you are traveling in a group or with family, you can hire a private taxi from Pokhara to Kande. This option is more expensive but more comfortable and convenient. The cost can vary, but it is around NPR 2,500-3,500.

It is also possible to negotiate the price for shared jeep or private taxi to get a better deal.

The best budget meals to eat along the Mardi Himal trek route

On the Mardi Himal trek route, there are plenty of budget-friendly meal options available in the teahouses and lodges. Here are some of the best budget meals to eat along the Mardi Himal trek route:

Dal Bhat: This is a traditional Nepalese dish consisting of steamed rice, lentil soup (dal), vegetables, and sometimes meat. It is a popular and filling meal and is often served as an all-you-can-eat option.

Noodles: Noodles are another popular and inexpensive option on the trek route. They are often served with vegetables and sometimes with eggs or meat.

Fried rice: Fried rice is a simple and tasty meal, usually made with rice, vegetables, and eggs or meat.

Chapati: Chapati is a type of flatbread made from wheat flour, water, and salt. It is often served with dal or vegetables and is a good option for a quick and easy meal.

Momos: Momos are Nepalese dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. They are a popular snack or appetizer and can also be eaten as a meal.

Porridge: Porridge is a popular breakfast option on the trek route. It is usually made from oats or rice and is served with milk and sugar.

These meals are not only budget-friendly but also provide the necessary energy and nutrients for trekking. It’s also important to note that the food options may vary depending on the availability and season, so it’s always good to ask the teahouse owner for the daily menu.

Mardi himal budget Trek FAQs: Frequently asking Questions and Answers about Mardi Himal trekking⇓

What is the Mardi Himal trek?

The Mardi Himal trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It takes you through scenic trails, dense forests, and high ridges, culminating in a stunning view of the Himalayas.

How long is the Mardi Himal trek?

The Mardi Himal trek is a relatively short trek and can be completed in 3-7 days, depending on your pace and itinerary.

How much does the Mardi Himal trek cost?

The cost of the Mardi Himal trek can vary depending on the trekking agency you choose, the length of your trek, and the services included. On a budget, you can expect to spend around $250-$400 USD for a 3-5 day trek.

What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal trek?

The best time to do the Mardi Himal trek is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons, when the weather is clear, and the views are stunning.

Do I need a permit to do the Mardi Himal trek?

Yes, you need a permit to do the Mardi Himal trek. You can obtain the permits from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the Pokhara office.

Can I do the Mardi Himal trek independently?

As of April 1, 2023, the Nepal government requires that all trekkers have a licensed guide or porter to do the Mardi Himal trek.

Can I rent trekking gear in Pokhara?

Yes, you can rent trekking gear in Pokhara. There are several shops that offer trekking gear rentals at affordable prices.

Is it safe to do the Mardi Himal trek on a budget?

Yes, it is safe to do the Mardi Himal trek on a budget, as long as you choose a reliable and experienced trekking agency and follow safety guidelines.

What are the accommodation options along the Mardi Himal trek route?

There are several tea houses and lodges along the Mardi Himal trek route that offer basic accommodation facilities at affordable prices.

Are there any food options for vegetarians and vegans along the Mardi Himal trek route?

Yes, there are several food options for vegetarians and vegans along the Mardi Himal trek route. You can find dal bhat, noodles, soups, and vegetable dishes at the tea houses and lodges.

Can I use my credit card to pay for the Mardi Himal trek?

It is recommended to bring enough cash with you as most tea houses and lodges along the Mardi Himal trek route do not accept credit cards.

What should I pack for the Mardi Himal trek?

Some essential items to pack for the Mardi Himal trek include warm clothes, trekking shoes, a sleeping bag, a backpack, a water bottle, a headlamp, and a first aid kit.

Do I need to be physically fit to do the Mardi Himal trek?

Yes, the Mardi Himal trek involves steep ascents and descents, and requires a moderate level of fitness. It is recommended to do some physical training before embarking on the trek.

Can I change my itinerary while on the Mardi Himal trek?

Yes, you can change your itinerary while on the Mardi Himal trek, but it is recommended to inform your guide or trekking agency beforehand.

What is the maximum altitude on the Mardi Himal trek?

The highest point on the Mardi Himal trek is the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which stands at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,763 feet).