Mardi Himal Trek is a beautiful and lesser-known trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This 5-7 day trek takes you through lush forests, and traditional villages, and offers stunning views of the Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. The trek is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The Mardi Himal Trek is a 40 km/25 mile trek spanning 4-7 days, averaging 8-9 km and 4-7 hours a day. It features picturesque trails through moose forests of Rhododendron and oak. The trek starts from Kande or Phedi, but Kande is recommended. Highlights include stunning views of the Annapurna Range and Fishtail Mountain, and the Mardi himal base camp at 4500m. Best time to go is from Sept-Nov or Mar-May, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Weather can vary, so pack accordingly.
The Mardi Himal trek is a lesser-known route in the Annapurna region that offers trekkers a serene and scenic journey. Situated in the eastern part of the Annapurna conservation area(ACAP), it is an untouched and less crowded natural gem that promises to give you a glimpse of the Annapurna region.
With our Experienced guides, we take you on a natural and off-the-beaten-path journey that will take you through lush forests and charming villages. The trek can be completed in 4 days, or you can take your time and extend it to 8 days, with ample tea houses and basic lodges along the way. The local people at every settlement are warm and welcoming, making this trek a true cultural experience.
This newly opened trekking route offers you an opportunity to explore the spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and many other towering peaks. It is not a challenging trek, and is suitable for all levels of hikers, making it an ideal choice for those who are short on time.
The trek takes you to an altitude of 3,900 meters, where you will experience breathtaking landscapes, verdant forests, beautiful rhododendron forests, charming Dhampus village, and a unique trekking experience along the ridge of the mountain.
If you are looking for a shorter trek, the Mardi Himal trek is a great choice, it can also be extended to include other trekking destinations like Deurali, Ghandruk, Annapurna base camp, and Ghorepani Poon hill trek.
Getting to the Mardi Himal Base Camp is the highlight of the Mardi Himal Trek. It’s located at a height of 4500 meters above sea level and requires moderate hiking, with occasional steep uphill climbs and tricky trails on slanting cliffs towards the end. Once you reach the base camp, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Annapurna, Machhapuchre, and other Himalayan peaks, all without the need for a strenuous and lengthy trek.
The weather and temperature during the Mardi Himal trek can vary depending on the time of year and altitude. Generally, the best time to trek is during the autumn months of September to November and the spring months of March to May. During these months, the weather is typically clear and dry, providing the best views of the mountain range.
At lower elevations, the temperature during the day can be quite warm, while it can be cool in the evenings and early mornings. As you gain altitude, the temperature will drop and can be quite cold at night, particularly above 3,000 meters. It’s always good to be prepared for colder temperatures by bringing warm clothing.
During the Monsoon season (June to August), it can be wet and muddy, making the trail more challenging and visibility can be poor due to clouds and mist. Also during the winter months, it can be cold and snow is expected at higher elevations, making the trek more difficult, this time it’s good to check for trail conditions before planning the trek.
The Mardi Himal Trek offers a rare opportunity to behold the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Himalayan Mountains. From the first day of the trek, you’ll be treated to magnificent vistas of the Annapurna range. With every passing village, the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Annapurna, Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, Ganesh Himal, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Tent Peak, Mt. Hiunchuli, Mt. Fang, Mt. Singhachuli, will leave you in wonder.
The Mardi Himal Trekking route is known for its stunning natural and cultural attractions. The trek offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range, as well as lush forests, rhododendron-filled hillsides, and terraced fields.
Along the way, trekkers will also encounter traditional villages and settlements of the Gurung and Magar communities, who are known for their warm hospitality and unique cultural traditions. These villages offer a glimpse into the daily life of rural Nepali communities, with their colorful prayer flags, intricately carved wooden windows, and stone houses.
Some of the cultural highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek include the charming village of Siding, which is famous for its traditional handicrafts, and the village of Lwang, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is known for its eco-tourism initiatives.
The trek also passes through the lush forests of the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to a wide range of wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and several species of birds. The forested hillsides are also famous for their colorful rhododendron blooms, which paint the hillsides with shades of pink, red, and white during the spring season.
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek offers a unique combination of natural and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for trekkers and nature lovers alike.
The difficulty level of Mardi Himal Trek depends on a variety of factors such as trekking nature , weather and temperature, trekking speed, and altitude. In general, it is considered a moderate trek, with some areas being more strenuous and challenging. To properly prepare for the trek, it is important to be physically fit and acclimatize to the high altitude. It is also important to bring proper clothing, footwear, and equipment, and to be well-versed in basic navigation and safety protocols. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local culture and customs, and to be respectful of the environment.
The best time to go trekking in the Mardi Himal region is from mid-September to October and then again from March to May [1]. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, and the trails are at their best. During the autumn season, there is usually more clarity in the air and the mountain views are especially breathtaking. In the spring, the trails are lush and green, and wildflowers are in bloom. However, the peak season is usually from April to May, so there can be more crowds and higher costs during this time.
The Mardi Himal base camp trek offers a variety of highlights for trekkers, here are a few major highlights of the trek:
Dhampus Village: The trek finishes with a visit to the charming Gurung village of Dhampus, where you can learn more about the local culture and customs.
Mardi Himal Trekking is a popular trekking destination in the Annapurna region of Nepal. To trek in this region, you will need to obtain a trekking permit and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. Here are the details of the fees for these permits:
Permit:
It’s important to note that both the Mardi Himal Trekking Permit and the TIMS Card are mandatory for anyone who wishes to trek in this region. You can obtain these permits and cards from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or from the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) in Pokhara.
Option One (6 Days):
This trekking route begins from Ghandruk and ends at Siding Village. It is about 35 kilometers Easy from a moderate walk through the forest and Gurung Villages.
Trek Route: Kathmandu or Pokhara- Ghandruk – Forest Camp – Badal Danda – High Camp – Siding – Pokhara
Option two (6 days):
This trekking route begins from Pitam Deurali and finishes at Kalimati. It is about 30 kilometers long pleasant trails.
Trek Route: Kathmandu or Pokhara – Pitam Deurali – Rest Camp – High Camp – Kalimati – Pokhara.
Option Three (9 Days):
It is a long trekking route that starts from Nayapul and ends at Siding Village via several local villages and forests. it is the longest route adjoin with the Ghorepani trek so, it is about 67 kilometers.
Trek Route: Kathmandu or Pokhara – Nayapul – Thikhedunga – Ghorepani Poon hill – Tadapani – Landr – Rest Camp – High Camp – Sidding Village – Pokhara.
Option Four (10 Days):
This trek option is connecting trekking option with a most popular Annapurna base camp. You start your trek from Kyumi to Annapurna base camp the same way back to New Bridge then trek to Landruk. However, this trekking is a wonderful option to observe so many things. In this trek option, your trek begins at Kyumi and ends at Kalimati. It is about 95 kilometers walk.
Trek Route: Kathmandu or Pokhara – Nayapul – Kyumi – Chhomrung – Bamboo – Himalaya – ABC – Bamboo – Jhinu Danda – Rest Camp – High Camp – Kalimati – Pokhara.
After completing this trip You may also like to visit:
Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from our company will be there to pick you up and take you to the hotel. To ensure a smooth start to your trip, we will give you some time to rest before scheduling a briefing session where we will discuss the details of the trek and prepare the necessary equipment. You will spend your first night in the bustling Thamel area of Kathmandu, where you can experience traditional Nepali cuisine.
On this day, we will begin our journey early in the morning, after having breakfast at your hotel, by taking a bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Although the ride may be long and tiresome, it is filled with interesting sights such as traditional villages, farming and forests, and the bus crosses over several rivers. After reaching the picturesque city of Pokhara, you will have the chance to freshen up and take some time for yourself. Afterward, we will take a tour around the beautiful Phewa Lake, and enjoy a delicious dinner featuring various types of Nepalese cuisine. You will spend your first night in Pokhara, a popular starting point for treks in the Annapurna region.
On this day, we will begin our trip from Pokhara to Phedi by Car/Jeep and then trek up to Dhampus Village. From there, we will embark on a trek to Pitam Deurali, via Pothana. The hike from Pokhara to Phedi is a steep climb through the beautiful landscapes of the Annapurna region. The trail from Phedi to Dhampus offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains. and is a chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle. The trek from Dhampus to Pitam Deurali is a challenging route that takes us through dense forests and steep inclines. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to admire the natural beauty of the area and enjoy the picturesque views of the Himalayas. Pitam Deurali is the final destination of the day where the night will be spent.
The trek from Pitam Deurali to the Rest Camp on the Mardi Himal Trek is a challenging and strenuous route that takes trekkers through rugged terrain, steep inclines, and dense forests. It’s considered a moderate to challenging trek and requires a good level of physical fitness.
From Pitam Deurali, the trail begins with a steep ascent through dense rhododendron forests, passing by small villages and terraced fields. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and the views of the surrounding peaks become more dramatic. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to observe the unique biodiversity of the region, including diverse species of plants, animals, and birds.
As we continue the trail, the landscape transitions from dense forest to more rocky and open terrain, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The final part of the trail before reaching the Rest Camp involves a steep ascent with rocky terrain, The Rest Camp is a place where we will be able to see the close-up panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the beautiful Mardi Himal.
After breakfast at a forest camp, we start our adventure again to reach the low camp, which is another good place to spend the night with friendly people and insane views of all the western mountains, especially the Annapurna range, and fishtail. After 5-hour of scenic walks through the green forest, you will reach low camp and spend your night in a local tea house.
It is best to spot to observe the Sunrise view over Annapurna, when you finish your breakfast we will hike to Mardi Himal base camp, which is the final day and goal of your trek, which is situated at 5300 meters high but the trails are quite narrow when you should go slow and follow the guide. After reaching the Mardi Himal base camp the view is magnificent. On this day we trek to base camp, but without our heavy bag pack because we walk back to the same guest house for a night.
In the morning after breakfast in the hotel, our tired steps decent to the Low camp of the Mardi Himal trek and the trails continue goes through the forest and Mardi Khola. It is such lovely walking along with the river and after 6 hours of easy walking, you will reach Siding village which is Pictures and residents of Gurung people. Overnight stay at the Sidling village with friendly people.
Yes, it is possible to take a shorter trek from Siding village to Lumiere on the last day of the Mardi Himal trek. Instead of retracing the steps back to Phedi and taking the bus, you can take a jeep from Siding village directly to Pokhara.
This can be a good option if you want to avoid the long trek back to Phedi, or if you have time constraints and need to get back to Pokhara quickly. It’s also possible to hire a jeep which is a common alternative transportation mode in the hilly terrain of Nepal. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the road condition.
Before taking the jeep, you can take a short walk around the Siding village to explore the area, and see the local culture, tradition, and lifestyle. This little walk can give you an idea of the local culture and an insight into the daily life of the villagers.
It’s worth mentioning that the jeep journey can be quite bumpy and dusty, and the road may be in poor condition, especially during the monsoon season so it’s best to check the road conditions before planning the trip. After reaching Pokhara you would usually be dropped off at your hotel or a nearby bus station.
Driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus is a common way for many tourists to travel between these two popular destinations in Nepal. The bus journey typically takes around 7 to 8 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. The route goes through the scenic mountains and valleys of Nepal, offering views of picturesque landscapes and traditional villages along the way.
As your Mardi Himal Trek with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd comes to a close, departure day has arrived. Our team would like to express our gratitude for your trust and support, and we hope you had an unforgettable experience. We’ll transport you to the TIA airport with a private car, jeep, van, or bus, bidding you farewell until your next adventure.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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Nepal has become my favorite country, and I have made unforgettable memories there. I went on a trek to Mardi Himal high camp and view station with four of my friends, and our guides Ram and Prem were incredibly helpful and caring throughout the journey. We stumbled upon Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. through a simple Google search and contacted them via email. Their prompt and efficient response convinced us to book our trip with them, and we are thrilled that we did. Thanks to the excellent management of Team Safe Holiday Adventure, our trip was meaningful and memorable. Thank you so much for everything!
Regards
Gabriel Lampart
Where is the Mardi Himal base camp trek?
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trail starts from the town of Kande, which is located about 45 minutes drive from Pokhara, a popular tourist destination in Nepal. The trek passes through lush forests, traditional villages, and high-altitude landscapes before reaching the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is situated at an altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level. The base camp offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna massif, including the famous peaks of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal itself. The trek is considered a hidden gem and is less crowded compared to other popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region.
What is the best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region?
The best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season (March to May) and post-monsoon (autumn) season (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and great visibility, making for an excellent trekking experience. During these months, the temperatures are moderate, and the weather is stable, making it easier to navigate the trail.
In the spring season, the hillsides are covered with colorful rhododendron blooms, which make for a spectacular sight. The post-monsoon season is also a great time to trek, with clear skies offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. However, it’s worth noting that during the autumn season, the trails can be busier, and accommodation can be more difficult to secure, so it’s important to book in advance.
The monsoon season (June to August) should be avoided as the trail can be muddy and slippery, and there is a risk of landslides and avalanches. The winter season (December to February) is also not recommended for the Mardi Himal Trek as the high-altitude areas can be very cold, and snow can make the trek more challenging.
How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal is considered a moderately challenging trek. The trail takes you through a variety of terrains, from lush forests to rocky terrain and high-altitude landscapes. The highest point of the trek is the Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) above sea level, which requires some level of physical fitness and acclimatization.
The trek involves steep ascents and descents, and some sections of the trail can be narrow and exposed, so it’s important to be cautious and take your time. However, the pace of the trek is generally relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the stunning scenery along the way.
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek is suitable for anyone with a good level of fitness and some hiking experience. It’s a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without undertaking a more strenuous or challenging trek.
This cost generally includes trekking permits, transportation, accommodation, food, and the services of a guide and porter. Additional costs that may not be included in the package are international airfare, visa fees, travel insurance, tips for trekking staff, personal expenses like snacks, drinks, phone calls, laundry, and hot showers during the trek, and any additional expenses incurred due to unforeseen events.
It’s important to carefully review the services included in the package before booking the trek and to choose a reputable trekking agency that offers good value for money.
Is it possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek independently?
Yes, it is possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek independently, but it requires careful planning, preparation, and a good level of hiking experience. The trail is well-marked, and there are tea houses and lodges along the way where you can find food and accommodation.
To do the trek independently, you need to obtain the necessary permits, which can be obtained at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You also need to arrange your own transportation to the trailhead and be responsible for your own safety and well-being.
However, it’s worth noting that having a guide or porter can be beneficial as they can provide valuable insight into the local culture and customs, offer assistance in case of emergencies, and help with navigation and logistics. Additionally, hiring a guide or porter can also contribute to the local economy and support the local community.
If you decide to do the trek independently, it’s important to research the trail, be well-prepared, and have the necessary equipment, including a good-quality map, a reliable GPS device, and appropriate hiking gear. It’s also important to check weather conditions and trail conditions before setting off on the trek.
How long does the Mardi Himal Trek take?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively short trek in Nepal, which can be completed in about 5 to 7 days depending on the route and pace of the trekker.
The standard route for the Mardi Himal Trek is usually a circular route that starts and ends in Pokhara. The trek begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, followed by a trek through beautiful forests and picturesque villages, reaching the high-altitude Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) and then descending back to Pokhara.
The trek can be customized to suit your preferences and fitness level. Some trekkers prefer to take a longer route that includes detours and side trips, while others may choose to complete the trek in a shorter time. It’s always best to plan and prepare accordingly, considering factors such as weather conditions, altitude sickness, and physical fitness.
What is the highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek?
The highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, which sits at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. From this point, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal itself.
Although the trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp is not as challenging as some of the other treks in Nepal, it still involves ascending to high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness in some trekkers. It’s essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow the guidance of experienced guides to avoid any health risks.
What is the average altitude of the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate-level trek in Nepal that takes trekkers through a range of altitudes. The average altitude of the Mardi Himal Trek is around 3,500 meters (11,483 feet) above sea level.
During the trek, trekkers gradually ascend from lower elevations, such as Pokhara, to higher altitudes, reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. Along the way, they pass through beautiful forests, villages, and alpine meadows, with stunning views of the Himalayas.
As with any trek that involves high altitudes, it’s crucial to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow the guidance of experienced guides to avoid any health risks. Trekkers should also be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take appropriate measures to prevent and treat it.
Are there any tea houses available on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes, there are several tea houses and lodges available on the Mardi Himal Trek. The trek passes through several villages and settlements, including Deurali, Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and Siding Village, where trekkers can find basic accommodation and meals.
The tea houses and lodges on the Mardi Himal Trek are relatively simple and offer basic facilities such as twin or double-sharing rooms with common washrooms, hot showers (at an additional cost), and traditional Nepali meals. The tea houses are owned and run by local families, which provides an opportunity for trekkers to experience the local culture and hospitality.
It’s essential to note that during peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), the tea houses can get busy and may require advance booking. Therefore, it’s always advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
What is the best route to take for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Starting from Kande, the trek passes through the charming village of Pothana before reaching the forested trail to Deurali. From Deurali, the trail climbs through the forest to reach Forest Camp and then continues to Low Camp and Rest Camp, where trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range.
From Rest Camp, the trail ascends steeply to High Camp, which is the base for the final ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek back to Siding Village follows a different trail, passing through beautiful forests and traditional villages, with an option to visit the hot springs at Jhinu Danda before reaching Pokhara.
Overall, this route provides a well-paced and scenic trekking experience, with a good mix of cultural and natural attractions, and is highly recommended for trekkers of all levels.
What are some of the highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Some of the highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek are:
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek is a great option for those looking for a challenging yet less crowded trekking route with stunning mountain views and cultural diversity.
What is the weather like on the Mardi Himal Trek?
The weather on the Mardi Himal Trek depends on the season in which you undertake the trek. Here is a brief overview of the weather conditions during different seasons:
Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to undertake the Mardi Himal Trek as the weather is generally clear with mild temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night. The days are longer, and the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, making for a beautiful trekking experience.
Summer (June to August): The summer months in Nepal are characterized by hot and humid weather, and the Mardi Himal Trek is no exception. The trails can be muddy and slippery due to monsoon rains, which can make trekking challenging. However, the views of the lush green landscape are stunning.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, and the Mardi Himal Trek is no exception. The weather is dry and clear with mild temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night. The skies are generally clear, offering spectacular mountain views.
Winter (December to February): Winter is a less popular season for trekking in Nepal due to the cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, the weather is generally clear with stunning views of snow-capped mountains. The trails can be slippery due to snow and ice, making trekking more challenging.
Overall, the best time to undertake the Mardi Himal Trek is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the views are spectacular.
What type of clothing and gear should I bring for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Packing the right clothing and gear for the Mardi Himal Trek is crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience. Here are some essential items you should consider packing for the trek:
Trekking boots: A comfortable and sturdy pair of trekking boots with good ankle support are essential for the Mardi Himal Trek.
Warm clothing: Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, so it’s important to bring warm clothing such as a down jacket, fleece jacket, thermal base layers, and warm pants.
Rain gear: The Mardi Himal Trek is prone to rainfall, so a good quality rain jacket and rain pants are essential.
Hat and gloves: A warm hat and gloves are essential to keep you warm during colder weather conditions.
Daypack: A comfortable and lightweight daypack to carry your water bottle, camera, snacks, and other essential items.
Sleeping bag: A good quality sleeping bag rated for temperatures below freezing is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep at higher elevations.
Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help provide stability and reduce the strain on your knees and ankles.
Water purification tablets or a water filter: Clean drinking water is essential during the trek, and a water purification system can help ensure safe drinking water.
First-aid kit: A small first-aid kit with essential medicines, bandages, and antiseptic creams can come in handy in case of any injuries.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun’s UV rays can be intense at higher elevations, so sunglasses and sunscreen with high SPF are essential.
Make sure to pack light and only bring essential items to avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
Are there any special permits or visas required for the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes, there are special permits and visas required for the Mardi Himal Trek. Here are the details:
TIMS Card: The Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card is required for all trekkers in the Annapurna region, including the Mardi Himal Trek. It can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN).
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The ACAP is required for all trekkers in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Mardi Himal Trek. The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or the ACAP counter in Besisahar.
Nepal Visa: All foreign nationals require a Nepal visa to enter Nepal, which can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at the border entry points.
It is recommended to check with your local Nepalese embassy or consulate for the latest information on visa requirements and application procedures. It is also advisable to obtain necessary permits and visas through a licensed trekking agency to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Is there any cellular service available on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes, there is cellular service available on the Mardi Himal Trek, but it can be limited and intermittent in some areas.
Most of the major cellular service providers in Nepal, such as Ncell and Nepal Telecom, offer network coverage along the Mardi Himal Trek. However, the quality of the network may vary depending on your location and the terrain.
In some remote areas, the network coverage may be weak or unavailable. It is advisable to carry a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergency purposes, especially if you are trekking solo or in a small group.
It is also important to note that using cellular data or making phone calls can be expensive in Nepal, especially in remote areas. It is advisable to check with your service provider about international roaming rates or purchase a local SIM card with a data plan before starting the trek.
Are there any alternatives to the Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region?
Yes, there are several alternatives to the Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region. Here are some of them:
Annapurna Base Camp Trek: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular alternative to the Mardi Himal Trek, which takes you to the base of the majestic Annapurna massif. The trek passes through diverse landscapes, including rice paddies, forests, and glaciers, and offers stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a relatively short and easy trek that offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek takes you through charming villages, rhododendron forests, and terraced fields, and culminates with a sunrise view from Poon Hill.
Upper Mustang Trek: The Upper Mustang Trek is a remote and challenging trek that takes you through the former Kingdom of Lo in the Mustang region. The trek offers a unique cultural and historical experience, as you pass through ancient villages, monasteries, and caves, and witness the unique Tibetan-Buddhist culture.
Tilicho Lake Trek: The Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging trek that takes you to the highest lake in the world, located at an altitude of 4,919 meters. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, high passes, and barren valleys.
Jomsom Muktinath Trek: The Jomsom Muktinath Trek is a classic trek that takes you through the Kali Gandaki valley, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and takes you to the holy site of Muktinath, a major pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
All of these treks offer unique experiences and stunning views of the Annapurna region.