5-Day Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu with Pokhara and Base Camp

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and other Himalayan peaks
• 02 Experience the hospitality and traditions of the local Gurung and Magar communities
• 03 Traverse through lush forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude meadows
• 04 Escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquillity of one of Nepal's hidden trekking treasures

Explore Mardi Himal, a stunning yet relatively undiscovered trekking destination that offers an authentic Himalayan experience. Encounter panoramic vistas of some of the world's most iconic peaks, including Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri, while passing through vibrant rhododendron forests and the expansive grasslands of the high Himalayas. This journey also offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the local Gurung and Magar communities and spot wildlife such as the Himalayan Tahr and various bird species.

Encounter panoramic vistas of some of the world's most iconic peaks, including Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri, while passing through vibrant rhododendron forests and the expansive grasslands of the high Himalayas.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Patan

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Explore Thamel

• Morning:
  • Arrival in Kathmandu:
  • Land at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and complete immigration and customs procedures.
  • Transfer to your hotel using a pre-arranged transfer or taxi.
• Afternoon:
  • Check-in and refresh:
  • Check into your hotel, freshen up, and rest.
  • Enjoy lunch at your hotel or explore nearby restaurants. Try local specialities like momos or dal bhat.
• Late afternoon:
  • Explore Thamel:
  • Visit Thamel, a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Browse for trekking gear and souvenirs, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Evening:
  • Relax and unwind:
  • Return to your hotel to relax.
  • Dine at a local restaurant or at your hotel, and consider exploring traditional Nepali cuisine.
• Optional evening activity:
  • Visit Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) for a stunning sunset view and cultural experience.
  • Visit Patan Durbar Square for historical and architectural exploration if time allows.

2

Day 02

Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara

• Morning:
  • Have breakfast at your hotel.
  • Fly or drive to Pokhara:
  • Take a morning flight to Pokhara, which takes about 25-30 minutes, or enjoy the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes around 6-8 hours.
• Afternoon:
  • Check-in and lunch:
  • Arrive in Pokhara and check into your hotel.
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or at your hotel.
• Late afternoon:
  • Explore Pokhara:
  • Visit Phewa Lake for a boat ride and relax by the lakeside.
  • Explore cafes and shops while enjoying the serene environment.
• Evening:
  • Have dinner at a restaurant in the Lakeside area or at your hotel.
  • Relax and prepare for your trek to Mardi Himal.

3

Day 03

Trek from Pokhara to Deurali via Pothana

• Morning:
  • Have breakfast at your hotel.
  • Drive from Pokhara to Pothana, which takes about 1.5-2 hours.
• Afternoon:
  • Start trekking:
  • Begin your trek from Pothana to Deurali. This relatively easy trek takes about 3-4 hours.
  • Have lunch at a local teahouse or en route.
• Evening:
  • Arrive in Deurali and check into your lodge or guesthouse.
  • Enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner at your lodge.
  • Relax and acclimatize to the surroundings.

4

Day 04

Trek from Deurali to Low Camp

• Morning:
  • Enjoy breakfast at your lodge.
  • Trek from Deurali to Low Camp, which takes about 4-5 hours. This section offers stunning mountain views.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch en route or at Low Camp.
  • Take some time to relax and enjoy the views at Low Camp.
• Evening:
  • Arrive at your lodge in Low Camp and check in.
  • Enjoy dinner and relax in the tranquil setting.

5

Day 05

High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

• Morning:
  • Have breakfast at your lodge.
  • Trek from Low Camp to High Camp, which takes about 4-5 hours, and enjoy the dramatic mountain views along the way.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch at High Camp or carry a packed lunch during the trek.
  • Continue from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp, which takes about 3-4 hours. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Mardi Himal and the surrounding peaks.
• Evening:
  • Trek back to High Camp.
  • Enjoy dinner at your lodge in High Camp and rest.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card
• Drive from Pokhara to the trek starting point (Kande) and from the trek ending point (Siding Village) back to Pokhara
• Lodging in teahouses or lodges along the trek
• Accommodation in Pokhara, usually on a twin-sharing basis
• During the trek, three meals are served daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals usually consist of local Nepali dishes and some international dishes.
• Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
• Porter(s) to carry your luggage, typically one porter for two trekkers
• Travel insurance that covers trekking. Make sure it covers high-altitude trekking.
• Basic first aid kit for emergencies

What's Not Included

• International flights: Flights to and from Nepal, such as Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Visa fees: Nepal visa fees, which can be obtained on arrival or before departure
• Personal expenses: Personal trekking gear, such as hiking boots, trekking poles, and down jackets
• Additional snacks, beverages, and personal items
• Tips for guides and porters, typically expected at the end of the trek
• Travel insurance: You need to arrange this separately
• Optional activities in Pokhara, such as paragliding, boating, and sightseeing

What to bring

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Know before you go

• Best times: The ideal seasons for trekking Mardi Himal are September to November (autumn) and March to May (spring). These periods offer the best weather and visibility.
• Weather conditions: Be aware that weather can be unpredictable. Temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes, especially at night.
• Fitness level: Assess your physical condition. Mardi Himal is a moderate trek that involves uphill and downhill hiking at altitudes up to 4,500 meters (14,763 feet). Regular hiking and cardio exercises can help you prepare.
• Acclimatization: Understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and prepare for acclimatization. The trek's highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp, so acclimatization is crucial to help prevent altitude sickness.
• Permits: Ensure you have TIMS and ACAP permits before starting your trek.
• Altitude sickness: Be mindful of symptoms and stay hydrated.
• Weather: Check weather conditions and pack accordingly.
• Local customs: Respect local traditions and dress modestly.
• Cash: Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be available in remote areas.
• Warm clothing and a sleeping bag may be required, though these are not always included. Please check with your operator.
• Airport pick-up and drop-off are available if applicable.
• This itinerary combines your initial exploration of Kathmandu and Pokhara with the Mardi Himal Trek, offering a balanced city sightseeing experience and trekking adventure. Enjoy your trip!

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Thamel

Tour start

Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.