“Discover Mardi Himal on a Budget: Affordable Trekking, Stunning Views, Authentic Nepalese Adventure. Your unforgettable journey awaits—no high costs, just high peaks!”
Mardi Himal trek is a short and Budegt trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, covering a total distance of about 64 km with an average walking time of 5-6 hours per day. The best time to go is from March to May and September to November. Permits and authorized papers are required for the trek. The trek offers budget-friendly food and accommodation options with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the Fishtail Mountain. The trek starts in Kande and ends in Kalimati with side trips to places like Australian Camp and Siding village.
Mardi Himal trekking is one of the most popular treks in Nepal that offers spectacular mountain views and a unique cultural experience. However, many people assume that trekking in Nepal is expensive and only for the wealthy. The good news is that a Mardi Himal Trek on a Tight Budget can be affordable and budget-friendly if you plan accordingly. Here are some tips for a budget-friendly Mardi Himal trek:
Firstly, consider traveling during the off-season as it will be less crowded and less expensive. The best budget season for Mardi Himal trek is from December to February and June to September. During these months, you can find low-priced Mardi Himal trekking packages that include accommodations, food, and transport.
Secondly, look for low-cost Mardi Himal trekking options such as choosing a tea-house trek instead of a camping trek. Tea-house treks offer budget accommodations, food, and transport as compared to camping treks. You can also find bargain Mardi Himal Trek on a Tight Budget deals by booking directly with local trekking agencies or guides.
Thirdly, select Budget accommodations Mardi Himal trek such as guesthouses or lodges instead of luxury hotels. These accommodations offer comfortable and affordable rooms with basic amenities. Similarly, choose budget food options Mardi Himal trek such as eating in local restaurants or teahouses, which offer authentic Nepali food at a low cost.
Fourthly, opt for economical Mardi Himal trekking by bringing your trekking gear or renting it from local shops at a lower price. Also, consider budget transport Mardi Himal trek options such as taking local buses or sharing private jeeps with other trekkers.
Lastly, choose a value-for-money Mardi Himal trek itinerary that includes budget-friendly activities such as cultural tours and village visits. You can also find affordable guided Mardi Himal trek with experienced guides who can provide valuable insights and make your trek more enjoyable.
In conclusion, with careful planning and budgeting, a Mardi Himal Trek on a low Budget can be an affordable and memorable experience. Use these budget trekking tips for the Mardi Himal trek to enjoy a low-cost trekking adventure without compromising on the beautiful views and cultural experience that Nepal has to offer.
Food is an essential part of any trek, and it’s important to have a healthy and nutritious diet to sustain the energy needed for trekking. While trekking in the Mardi Himal region, there are several budget-friendly food options available. Tea houses and lodges offer traditional Nepali dishes such as Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup), momos (dumplings), and Thukpa (noodle soup) at affordable prices. Additionally, it’s recommended to carry some snacks such as nuts, energy bars, and chocolates, which can be bought in Pokhara or Kathmandu at lower prices.
Accommodations play a vital role in any trekking experience, and finding a comfortable and affordable place to stay is crucial, especially for those on a budget. During the magical Mardi Himal trek, there are several budget-friendly accommodation options available, including tea houses and lodges that offer basic facilities such as a Bed, blanket, and shared bathroom. These accommodations also provide hot showers and charging facilities for electronic devices for an additional cost. Additionally, some tea houses also offer shared dormitories, which are an even more affordable option for solo travelers. It’s recommended to book accommodations in advance during peak trekking seasons to ensure availability.
The best budget season for the Mardi Himal trek is during the off-season, which falls between June and August and December to February. During this time, the number of trekkers reduces significantly, and accommodation and transportation costs are lower. However, the weather can be unpredictable during these seasons, with occasional rainfall and cold temperatures. Therefore, it’s recommended to pack warm clothes and rain gear to prepare for any weather changes. The trails during the off-season are quieter, providing a more peaceful and serene trekking experience. It’s essential to check weather forecasts and trail conditions before embarking on the trek.
To trek to Mardi Himal, obtaining the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is essential. The permit costs 3000 Nepali rupees. There are two methods to acquire this permit:
Through a travel agency
In person at either:
The following documents and items are required to obtain the permit:
Additionally, it is mandatory to have a government-licensed guide accompany you during the trek. Both the ACAP permit and a licensed guide are required for entry into the conservation area.
Physical and mental preparation are essential for a successful Mardi Himal trek. It is recommended to start training at least a month before the trek, including cardio, strength, and endurance exercises. The trek involves long hours of walking on steep and uneven terrain, so building leg strength and endurance is crucial. Mental preparation involves preparing yourself for challenging conditions, including changes in weather and altitude sickness. Meditation and breathing exercises can help in building mental strength and resilience. Proper rest, hydration, and nutrition are also crucial for the trek.
The Mardi Himal Trek costs $398 per person for our 4-day plan from Pokhara when sharing a room. This price covers most trekking expenses, giving you a great all-inclusive deal. If you’re in a bigger group, the cost per person goes down, and we even have discounts for larger groups.
Here’s a breakdown for different group sizes:
Solo (1 person): $498 Group of 6-8: $359 US
Group of 2: $398n Group of 8-10: $350 US
Group of 3: $385 Group of 10-15: $ 335 US
Group of 4: $380 More Than 15: $320 US
Group of 5: $376
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 hotel in Pokhara to Kande after a fulfilling breakfast. The one-hour drive to Kande will be followed by a trek through scenic trails. As you walk past 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 a forest of rhododendrons and oak and climb steeply for about an hour from Pothana to reach Pitam Deurali, where you can find 2-to 3 guesthouses. The journey continues through a dense forest and peaceful trails with no tea shops or lodges along the route. After 6 hours of walking from Kande, you will finally reach Rest Camp, one of the best spots to spend the night. You will be able to enjoy views 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 final day of the Mardi Himal trek, we rise early and begin our hike to the Mardi Himal viewpoint. This day is the highlight of the trek, as we get to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. Starting from High Camp around 4 a.m., equipped with torchlights, snacks, and water, we embark on a steep trail that takes approximately two hours to reach the viewpoint. From there, we enjoy close-up views of the Fishtail and Annapurna South mountain ranges, along with many other peaks and rolling hills. The sunrise is simply mesmerizing and leaves you speechless. After spending time at the viewpoint, we retrace our steps back to Forest Camp and then follow a small trail descending to Kalimati. From Kalimati, we will take a private jeep to Pokhara, a journey that takes around 2-3 hours. Despite being a long day, it is undoubtedly the most adventurous and memorable day of the trek.
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.
Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
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My trekking experience with Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd. during the Mardi Himal trek was simply fantastic. Despite being on a tight budget, the team provided excellent service and made sure that every aspect of our trip was perfect. Our guide Ramesh was a true professional and his knowledge and friendly nature made the journey even more enjoyable. He always prioritized our safety and well-being. If you’re planning a trekking adventure in Nepal, I highly recommend Safe Holiday Adventure and Ramesh.”
Namaste!!!
Enrico Chris Veronese
Pros:
Cons:
Here’s a list of essential items you should pack for a budget Mardi Himal trek in Nepal:
Remember to pack light and only bring the essentials, as you will have to carry everything on your back during the trek.
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:
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.
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 assist, 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.
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 a shared jeep or private taxi to get a better deal.
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.
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 relatively short 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-USD 400 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. Several shops 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).