Mardi Himal Trek Complete Guide (2021 updated)
Mardi Himal trek is considered as a hidden gem of Nepal after making its official debut in 2012 alongside with other mainstream routes. Mardi Himal is a 5,587 peak beneath the much more prominent Machapuchare in the Annapurna region of Nepal.
Highlights
- Rewarding mountain views within a short trek
- The astounding Mardi viewpoint that places you right in front of Himchuli (6,441m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Gangapurna (7,454m), Machhapuchchhre or Fishtail (6,997m) and Mardi (5,553m). Mt. Machhapuchchhre seems beautifully within reach from here.
- An equally good panorama from the Mardi Himal base camp
- Cultural exploration at villages like Dhampus and Deurali that are beautifully placed in front of pleasant panoramic views
Mardi Himal route is taken as a great alternative to Annapurna base camp that offers rewarding views of Fishtail Mountain(Machhapuchhre). It is the lowest and perhaps the least visited of the trekking peaks in Nepal. Few trekkers make their way to the Mardi Himal Base Camp spectacularly situated at the base of Mardi Himal and the impressive Machapuchhre.
Mardi Himal trek is best for the trekkers, who wish to visit the traditional villages, incredible scenery, spectacular mountains and alluring views of snow-fed rivers ultimately taking closest possible to the Mt. Fishtail. There are countless reasons to go for this trek, first let’s discuss the top 5 reasons to do the Mardi Himal Trek.
#Mardi Himal
“Mardi” is entitled to the triangularly shaped ridge and its summit that form the westerly lower slope of Mt. Macchapuchre, well recalled as “Fishtail” having a shape as like tail of fish. Mardi Himal upper viewpoint (4250m) provide closest view of the Himalayan Vista including Mardi Himal (5587) Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna south (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Baraha Shikhar (Mt. Fang) (7647m), Tent Peak (5695m), Singhachuli (6501m), Machapuchhre (6993m) and other peaks.
# Sunrise & Sunset Views
The spectacular sunrise and sunset views during the trek are remarkable.
Sunrise View
sunset views
# Moderate Trek
This trek doesn´t require super fitness but however moderate level of fitness is necessary though there is no direct climbing involved. The trails consist of uphill and downhill trekking which when done in a slow pace is very doable. Also, there are low risks of suffering from altitude sickness in comparison to other higher altitude treks.
# Cultural diversity with great harmony
Apart from exploring the beautiful hamlets, wildlife, mountain ranges. This trek take you through the traditional villages, human settlements to the pristine heavenly surrounding of Mardi Base Camp. Ascending higher, the rhododendron trees welcome trekkers with its bright embrace.
# Cheapest trekking
Shorter the number of trekking days, cheaper the trekking price. Mardi Himal Trek cost depends on the mode of tour, accommodation and transportation. The numerous options of transportation mode from Kathmandu (tourist bus/ private car/ flight) to and from Pokhara also cuts down price massively. Booking tourist bus to Pokhara is the cheapest way. If a trekker wants luxury there is always possibility to book a flight or a private car.
The teahouses available in Mardi Himal Trek are very comfortable and cozy.
Finally, Mardi Himal trek is complete package for trekking. Cultural and natural aspects come together to entertain trekker.