The Mardi Himal Trek is a scenic short trek in Nepal's Annapurna region, combining peaceful forest trails, dramatic mountain ridges and spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The trail climbs through rhododendron forests and alpine landscapes from Kande to High Camp (3,550 m), with comfortable teahouse accommodation along the route.
The highlight is the early-morning hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m), with the option to continue towards Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) when weather, trail conditions and acclimatization allow. Compared with some of Nepal's busier trekking routes, Mardi Himal offers a quieter Himalayan experience without requiring technical climbing.
Our 11-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary also continues through Lwang Village and Dhampus, adding Gurung culture, tea gardens, terraced landscapes and rural mountain life to the journey. With six trekking days plus time in Kathmandu and Pokhara, it is an excellent choice for active travellers looking for a shorter trek that combines Himalayan scenery, local culture and peaceful trails.
| Day | Activity | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu & transfer to hotel | Hotel |
| Day 2 | Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage sightseeing & Mardi Himal Trek preparation | Hotel |
| Day 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara | Hotel |
| Day 4 | Drive to Kande & trek to Pitam Deurali via Australian Camp and Pothana | Lodge |
| Day 5 | Trek from Pitam Deurali to Rest Camp via Forest Camp | Lodge |
| Day 6 | Trek from Rest Camp to High Camp via Low Camp | Lodge |
| Day 7 | Hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint & optional Mardi Himal Base Camp; descend to Low Camp | Lodge |
| Day 8 | Trek from Low Camp to Lwang Village | Lodge |
| Day 9 | Trek from Lwang to Dhampus & Phedi; drive to Pokhara | Hotel |
| Day 10 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; optional flight | Hotel |
| Day 11 | Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for final departure | — |
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate Himalayan trek. No technical climbing experience is required, but trekkers should be comfortable with several hours of walking, steep ascents and descents, and trekking at elevations above 3,500 m. The optional hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (approx. 4,500 m) is the most demanding part of the trek.
| Difficulty Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Trip Grade | Moderate |
| Trip Duration | 11 Days |
| Maximum Altitude | Approx. 4,500 m (Mardi Himal Base Camp) |
| Highest Overnight Stay | High Camp (3,550 m) |
| Daily Trekking Time | 3–6 hours; approx. 6–8 hours on the Viewpoint/Base Camp day |
| Total Trekking Days | 6 Days |
| Trail Type | Forest trails, stone steps, steep ascents and descents, and high mountain ridges |
| Technical Climbing | Not required |
| Previous Trekking Experience | Helpful but not essential |
| Fitness Level | Reasonable fitness and endurance recommended |
| Altitude Sickness Risk | Possible above 3,500 m; careful pacing and altitude awareness are important |
| Suitable For | Active beginners and experienced trekkers in good health |
Most days involve 3–6 hours of trekking, while the hike from High Camp to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (approx. 4,200 m) and optional Mardi Himal Base Camp (approx. 4,500 m) is the longest and most challenging day.
The trail is non-technical but includes forest paths, stone steps, steep sections and exposed high ridges. With reasonable physical preparation, a steady walking pace and the support of an experienced licensed trekking guide, the Mardi Himal Trek is achievable for most active travellers.
The Mardi Himal Trek reaches approximately 4,500 m at Mardi Himal Base Camp, while the highest overnight stay is at High Camp (3,550 m). Because the trek gains altitude relatively quickly, proper pacing, hydration and awareness of altitude symptoms are important.
Our itinerary gradually climbs through Pitam Deurali (2,100 m), Rest Camp (2,600 m), Low Camp (3,050 m) and High Camp (3,550 m) before the early-morning hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (approx. 4,200 m) and optional Base Camp. After reaching the highest point, you descend to Low Camp the same day rather than sleeping at extreme altitude.
| Location | Altitude |
|---|---|
| Pitam Deurali | 2,100 m |
| Rest Camp | 2,600 m |
| Low Camp | 3,050 m |
| Badal Danda | Approx. 3,250 m |
| High Camp | 3,550 m |
| Mardi Himal Viewpoint | Approx. 4,200 m |
| Mardi Himal Base Camp | Approx. 4,500 m |
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Common early symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite and unusual fatigue. If symptoms develop, you should inform your guide immediately and avoid ascending further.
Reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp is optional. Your guide will consider your condition, weather and trail conditions before continuing beyond the viewpoint. Safety always takes priority over reaching the highest point.
The best time for the Mardi Himal Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is generally more stable, mountain visibility is good, and trail conditions are favourable. Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests and pleasant trekking temperatures, while autumn is known for clear skies, crisp air and excellent views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
Winter offers quieter trails and beautiful mountain scenery, but temperatures at High Camp can be very cold and snowfall may affect the higher sections. During the summer monsoon, frequent rain can make the lower forest trails wet, muddy and slippery, with clouds often limiting mountain views.
| Season | Months | Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March – May | Mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons and generally good mountain views. | Excellent |
| Summer / Monsoon | June – August | Warm and humid with frequent rain, muddy trails, leeches and more cloud cover. | Fair |
| Autumn | September – November | Generally stable weather, clear skies and excellent Himalayan visibility. | Excellent |
| Winter | December – February | Cold at higher elevations with possible snow around High Camp and the Viewpoint. | Good |
During the Mardi Himal Trek, you'll stay in comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and in traditional Himalayan teahouses or lodges along the trekking route. These locally run lodges provide simple, comfortable accommodation and a welcoming place to rest after each day's walk.
Most trekking lodges offer twin-sharing rooms. Facilities become more basic as you climb towards Low Camp and High Camp, where bathrooms are generally shared. Hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging are available at some lodges for an additional cost, but services can be limited at higher elevations.
| Location / Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Comfortable hotel |
| Pokhara | Comfortable hotel |
| During the Trek | Local teahouses and mountain lodges |
| Room Type | Twin-sharing rooms; single supplement available where possible |
| Bathroom | Private facilities may be available at lower elevations; mostly shared at higher camps |
| Hot Shower | Available at selected lodges; additional cost may apply |
| Wi-Fi & Charging | Available at some lodges; additional cost may apply |
| Heating | Dining areas may be heated; bedrooms are generally unheated |
Good food and proper nutrition are important during the Mardi Himal Trek. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included each day on the trekking route, while breakfast is included at your hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. You will also enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner on your first evening in Kathmandu.
Teahouses and lodges along the Mardi Himal route serve a variety of freshly prepared meals, including Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, pasta, soups, potatoes, eggs, pancakes and momos. Vegetarian options are widely available, while vegan and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Boiled and purified drinking water is available along the trekking route.
| Location / Meal | Details |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Breakfast & Traditional Nepali Welcome Dinner |
| During the Trek | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |
| Pokhara | Breakfast |
| Popular Dishes | Dal Bhat, Noodles, Fried Rice, Pasta, Soups, Eggs & Momos |
| Vegetarian Options | Widely Available |
| Vegan / Special Diets | Available on Request |
| Drinking Water | Boiled & Purified Water Available Along the Trek |
The Mardi Himal Trek requires two trekking permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS Card. Both are included in our trekking package. Himalayan Dream Team arranges the required permits before the trek, so you do not need to handle the paperwork yourself.
| Permit | Details |
|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | Required for trekking within the Annapurna Conservation Area. |
| TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) | Required for the Mardi Himal trekking route under current trekking regulations. |
| Permit Arrangement | All necessary trekking permits are arranged by Himalayan Dream Team before the trek. |
| Included in Package | Yes |
Transportation for the Mardi Himal Trek includes the main overland journeys between Kathmandu and Pokhara, road transfers to and from the trekking trail, and airport transfers in Kathmandu. The standard package uses a tourist bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara, with an optional domestic flight available for travellers who prefer a faster journey.
| Route / Transfer | Transportation & Approx. Time |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu Airport → Hotel | Private vehicle – approx. 30–45 minutes |
| Kathmandu → Pokhara | Tourist bus – approx. 6–8 hours |
| Pokhara → Kande | Private/local vehicle – approx. 1 hour |
| Phedi → Pokhara | Private/local vehicle – approx. 30–45 minutes |
| Pokhara → Kathmandu | Tourist bus – approx. 6–8 hours |
| Pokhara → Kathmandu Flight | Optional domestic flight – approx. 25–30 minutes |
| Kathmandu Hotel → Airport | Private vehicle – approx. 20–45 minutes |
Road journey times can vary depending on traffic, road conditions and weather. The optional Pokhara–Kathmandu flight can be arranged at an additional cost.
Both the Mardi Himal Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek offer spectacular trekking experiences in Nepal's Annapurna region, but they are quite different. Mardi Himal is generally shorter, quieter and known for its high ridgeline and close views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), while the Annapurna Base Camp Trek follows a longer route into the dramatic Annapurna Sanctuary, surrounded by some of the region's highest mountains.
For travellers with limited time who prefer peaceful trails and a shorter Himalayan trek, Mardi Himal is an excellent choice. Trekkers looking for a longer journey with more villages, varied landscapes and the classic experience of reaching Annapurna Base Camp may prefer the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
| Feature | Mardi Himal Trek | Annapurna Base Camp Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Altitude | Approx. 4,500 m – Mardi Himal Base Camp | 4,130 m – Annapurna Base Camp |
| Trekking Style | High ridges, forests & mountain viewpoints | River valleys, villages & Annapurna Sanctuary |
| Trail Traffic | Generally quieter | More popular and busier |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Mountain Experience | Close views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, Annapurna South & Hiunchuli | Surrounded by Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli & other peaks |
| Cultural Experience | Gurung villages including Lwang & Dhampus on our itinerary | Traditional Gurung villages along the Annapurna route |
| Accommodation | Teahouses / mountain lodges | Teahouses / mountain lodges |
| Best Seasons | March–May & September–November | March–May & September–November |
| Best For | Shorter trek, quieter trails & dramatic ridge views | Classic base camp experience & Annapurna Sanctuary scenery |
Choose the Mardi Himal Trek if you want a relatively short trek with quieter trails, beautiful forests, dramatic ridgeline walking and impressive close-up views of Machhapuchhre. Himalayan Dream Team's itinerary also continues through Lwang and Dhampus, adding a rewarding cultural experience after the high mountain section.
Choose the Annapurna Base Camp Trek if you have more trekking time and want to journey deep into the Annapurna Sanctuary, eventually reaching the natural amphitheatre at Annapurna Base Camp. Both treks are excellent choices, and the better option depends on your available time, preferred scenery and trekking style.
Choosing the right trekking company is an important part of your Himalayan journey. Himalayan Dream Team is a local, women-led trekking company based in Kathmandu, combining experienced local guides, carefully planned itineraries and personal support from your arrival in Nepal until your final departure.
Our 11-day Mardi Himal Trek goes beyond the standard mountain route by continuing through Lwang Village and Dhampus, combining the spectacular Mardi Himal ridge with Gurung culture and rural life in the Annapurna foothills.
| Why Choose Us | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| Local Women-Led Company | Travel with a Nepal-based trekking company led by local women with firsthand knowledge of Nepal and the Himalayas. |
| Experienced Licensed Guides | Trek with professional local guides who understand the route, mountain conditions, altitude and local culture. |
| Carefully Planned Itinerary | A well-paced route through Pitam Deurali, Rest Camp, Low Camp and High Camp before the optional hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. |
| More Than the Standard Mardi Route | Continue through Lwang Village and Dhampus for an additional cultural experience in the Annapurna foothills. |
| Small Groups & Private Trips | Small-group and private departures allow more personal attention and flexibility during the journey. |
| Complete Trek Arrangements | We arrange accommodation, meals during the trek, permits, transportation, guides and porter services. |
| Safety & Altitude Awareness | Our guides maintain a sensible trekking pace, monitor how you are adapting to altitude and put safety before reaching the highest point. |
| Fair Treatment of Guides & Porters | Our trekking staff are properly supported with wages, meals, accommodation, insurance and necessary equipment. |
| Responsible Local Travel | We use locally operated lodges and services wherever practical and encourage respectful travel in mountain communities. |
| Personal Support in Nepal | Our Kathmandu team remains available before, during and after your trek to assist with your travel arrangements. |
By choosing Himalayan Dream Team, you trek with a local team that knows Nepal personally while supporting local employment, responsible tourism and a women-led Nepali travel company.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will meet you at the airport and transfer you by private vehicle to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax after your journey or spend some time exploring the lively streets, shops and cafés of Thamel.
In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide for a pre-trek briefing about the Mardi Himal Trek, including the itinerary, trail conditions, equipment and other practical information. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner, a relaxed introduction to Nepalese cuisine and hospitality before your Himalayan journey begins.
After breakfast at the hotel, meet your cultural guide for a guided sightseeing tour of some of the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley. The tour introduces you to Nepal's Buddhist and Hindu traditions, historic architecture and living cultural heritage before your journey to the Annapurna region.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Set on a hill overlooking Kathmandu, Swayambhunath is one of Nepal's most important Buddhist sites. Walk around the ancient stupa, prayer wheels and shrines while enjoying panoramic views across Kathmandu Valley.
Pashupatinath Temple: Continue to this sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River. Although the main temple is open only to Hindus, visitors can explore the surrounding area and observe temples, shrines, sadhus and traditional cremation rituals from designated viewpoints.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Explore the historic royal heart of old Kathmandu, known for its traditional Newari architecture, temples, courtyards and former royal palace complex. The square provides an excellent introduction to the artistic and architectural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley.
After sightseeing, return to your hotel and complete any final preparations for the Mardi Himal Trek. Your guide can help you check essential trekking equipment and answer any last-minute questions before you travel to Pokhara the following morning.
After breakfast, travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus. The journey follows Nepal's mid-hill highways through river valleys, terraced farmland, small towns and rural settlements. On a clear day, there may also be glimpses of the Himalayan ranges along the way.
Upon arrival in Pokhara (822 m), transfer to your hotel near the Lakeside area. The remainder of the day is free to relax after the journey, walk beside Phewa Lake, or explore the cafés, restaurants and shops around Lakeside.
Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and the starting point for your journey towards the Mardi Himal Trek. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
After breakfast, drive from Pokhara (822 m) to Kande (1,770 m), the starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek. From Kande, begin walking uphill towards Australian Camp (approx. 2,060 m), a scenic ridge settlement with views of the Annapurna range on clear days.
Continue through forest and village trails to Pothana (approx. 1,890 m) before climbing gradually towards Pitam Deurali (2,100 m). The route passes through rhododendron and oak forest and offers an enjoyable introduction to trekking in the Annapurna region.
Arrive at Pitam Deurali in the afternoon and settle into your mountain lodge. From the surrounding ridge, weather permitting, you can enjoy views towards Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Overnight at Pitam Deurali.
After breakfast, leave Pitam Deurali (2,100 m) and follow the quieter Mardi Himal trail into dense rhododendron, oak and maple forest. The route climbs steadily along the forested ridge, with occasional clearings offering glimpses of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South when the weather is clear.
Continue to Forest Camp (approx. 2,520 m), also locally known as Kokar, where you can stop for lunch and a short rest. From Forest Camp, continue gradually uphill through moss-covered woodland towards Rest Camp (2,600 m).
Rest Camp is a small and peaceful overnight stop surrounded by forest. As the vegetation begins to open, there are increasingly impressive views towards Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Overnight at a mountain lodge in Rest Camp.
After breakfast, continue uphill from Rest Camp (2,600 m) through rhododendron forest towards Low Camp (3,050 m). As you gain altitude, the dense forest gradually becomes thinner and the mountain views become increasingly dramatic.
From Low Camp, continue towards Badal Danda (around 3,250 m), where the trail begins to emerge onto the open ridge. Weather permitting, this section offers excellent views of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m).
The final section follows the exposed ridge towards High Camp (3,550 m). With the forest now largely behind you, the landscape becomes more alpine and the proximity of Machhapuchhre is particularly impressive.
Arrive at High Camp in the afternoon and settle into your lodge. Rest and prepare for an early start the following morning for the trek's main objective: Mardi Himal Viewpoint and, when conditions permit, Mardi Himal Base Camp (approx. 4,500 m).
Today is the highest and most rewarding day of the Mardi Himal Trek. We start early from High Camp (3,550 m) and follow the ridge towards Mardi Himal Viewpoint (approx. 4,200 m). The trail becomes steeper and more exposed as you gain altitude, so we walk at a steady pace and allow plenty of time for rest and photographs.
Weather permitting, the viewpoint offers spectacular close-up views of Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m) and Hiunchuli (6,441 m). The early morning light across the Annapurna range makes this one of the most memorable moments of the trek.
For trekkers who are well acclimatized and when weather and trail conditions are suitable, it is possible to continue towards Mardi Himal Base Camp (approx. 4,500 m). This section is optional, and your guide will assess the conditions, available time and how you are feeling before continuing.
After enjoying the high Himalayan scenery, descend back to High Camp for a well-earned rest and breakfast before continuing downhill along the ridge to Low Camp (3,050 m). Overnight at a mountain lodge in Low Camp.
After breakfast, leave Low Camp (3,050 m) and descend from the high ridge into the forest. The trail passes through rhododendron and mixed woodland as you gradually leave the alpine environment of Mardi Himal behind.
Continue downhill towards Kalimati and eventually reach Lwang Village (1,460 m), a traditional Gurung settlement surrounded by terraced hillsides and tea gardens. This quieter route provides an interesting cultural contrast to the high-mountain landscapes of the previous days.
Lwang is known for its Gurung community, traditional village atmosphere and locally grown tea. After arriving, you can explore the village, observe everyday rural life and enjoy a relaxing evening after the long descent from the Mardi Himal ridge.
After breakfast, begin the final trekking day through the lower foothills of the Annapurna region. The route passes traditional settlements, terraced farmland and forested hillsides as you make your way towards Dhampus (approx. 1,650 m).
Dhampus is a well-known Gurung village and, on a clear day, offers beautiful views towards Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and the surrounding Annapurna range. Take some time to enjoy the village and mountain scenery before continuing the descent.
From Dhampus, follow stone steps and village trails downhill to Phedi (approx. 1,130 m), where the Mardi Himal trekking journey comes to an end. Your vehicle will be waiting for the drive back to Pokhara (822 m).
After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is free. You can relax beside Phewa Lake, explore Pokhara Lakeside or simply enjoy a comfortable evening after completing the Mardi Himal Trek.
After breakfast, travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus. The overland journey follows river valleys and Nepal's middle hills, passing terraced farmland, roadside settlements and rural landscapes along the way.
For travellers who prefer a shorter journey, an optional domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu can be arranged at an additional cost. The flight takes (25–30 minutes) and, when the weather is clear, may offer impressive aerial views of the Himalayan ranges.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore Thamel, enjoy a final dinner in the city or do some last-minute shopping.
Your 11-day Mardi Himal Trek comes to an end today. After breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time depending on the departure time of your international flight.
At the appropriate time, a Himalayan Dream Team representative will meet you at your hotel and transfer you by private vehicle to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We normally arrange the transfer with sufficient time for international check-in while taking Kathmandu traffic conditions into consideration.
If your flight departs later in the day, you can leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy some additional free time for last-minute shopping, sightseeing or relaxing before your airport transfer.
If you would like to extend your stay in Nepal, Himalayan Dream Team can also arrange additional experiences in Pokhara, Chitwan, the Kathmandu Valley or other destinations.
The Mardi Himal Trek is graded moderate. No technical climbing skills are required, but you should be comfortable walking for around 3–6 hours on most trekking days over forest trails, stone steps, steep ascents and descents, and mountain ridges.
The most demanding day is the hike from High Camp (3,550 m) to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (approx. 4,200 m) and, if conditions allow, the optional continuation towards Mardi Himal Base Camp (approx. 4,500 m).
Yes. The Mardi Himal Trek can be suitable for active beginners with reasonable fitness, even without previous high-altitude trekking experience. Some preparation before arriving in Nepal is recommended, particularly regular walking, hiking, stair climbing or other cardiovascular exercise.
Beginners should remember that reaching approximately 4,500 m makes this a genuine high-altitude trek, so a steady pace and careful attention to altitude symptoms are important.
The highest point on our itinerary is Mardi Himal Base Camp at approximately 4,500 m, which is an optional extension from the main viewpoint. Mardi Himal Viewpoint is approximately 4,200 m, while the highest overnight stay is at High Camp (3,550 m).
Actual recorded elevations can vary slightly depending on the map or GPS device used.
No. Reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp is optional. Mardi Himal Viewpoint itself offers excellent close-up Himalayan scenery and is a rewarding objective.
Whether you continue towards Base Camp depends on your physical condition, acclimatization, weather, snow or trail conditions, available time and your guide's assessment. Safety takes priority over reaching the highest point.
Yes. Altitude sickness can occur because the trek reaches above 4,000 m. It can affect anyone regardless of age, fitness or previous trekking experience.
Possible early symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual tiredness and loss of appetite. Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell. You should not continue ascending when symptoms of altitude illness are worsening.
The best seasons are generally spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring offers pleasant trekking conditions and flowering rhododendrons, while autumn is particularly popular for generally stable weather and clear Himalayan views.
The trek can also be undertaken in winter, although temperatures are considerably colder at higher elevations and snow may affect High Camp and the viewpoint. Monsoon trekking is possible but involves rain, clouds, muddy trails and leeches at lower elevations.
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) for this itinerary under current trekking regulations.
Both permits are included in our package and Himalayan Dream Team arranges them for you before the trek.
Under Nepal's current trekking regulations, the Mardi Himal route is among the routes where foreign trekkers are required to trek with a licensed trekking guide through a registered trekking agency.
Your Himalayan Dream Team guide also helps with navigation, accommodation, communication with lodges, changing trail and weather conditions, and monitoring your wellbeing at altitude.
Accommodation on the trekking route is in local teahouses and mountain lodges. Rooms are generally simple twin-sharing rooms with beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets.
Facilities become more basic towards Low Camp and High Camp. Bathrooms are commonly shared at higher elevations, and bedrooms generally do not have heating. Kathmandu and Pokhara accommodation is in comfortable hotels.
Teahouses offer a good selection of meals such as Dal Bhat, noodles, fried rice, pasta, potatoes, soups, eggs, pancakes and momos. Dal Bhat is particularly popular among trekkers because it provides carbohydrates, lentils and vegetables in one filling meal.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included during the trekking portion of our itinerary. Vegetarian meals are widely available, while vegan and other dietary requirements should be discussed with us in advance.
Yes. Boiled water and water that can be treated or purified are available along the trekking route. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and a reliable purification method such as purification tablets or an appropriate trekking water filter.
Avoid drinking untreated water directly from streams or taps. Using refillable bottles and treated water also helps reduce unnecessary single-use plastic waste in the mountains.
Electricity or charging facilities are available at many teahouses, although availability becomes less reliable as you climb higher. Some lodges charge an additional fee for charging phones, cameras and power banks.
We recommend bringing a fully charged power bank, particularly for the nights around Low Camp and High Camp. Cold temperatures can also cause batteries to lose power more quickly.
Wi-Fi is available at some lodges, usually for an additional charge, but connections can be slow or unavailable depending on the location, weather and local network.
Mobile coverage is available in parts of the route but should not be expected everywhere. Treat internet and mobile service as a convenience rather than something you can rely on throughout the trek.
Essential items include comfortable trekking boots, moisture-wicking layers, warm fleece or insulated jacket, waterproof jacket and trousers, trekking trousers, thermal base layers, gloves, warm hat, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp and reusable water bottles.
You should also carry a small personal first-aid kit, toiletries, water purification method, power bank and a suitable sleeping bag. Your exact clothing should be adjusted according to the season. Himalayan Dream Team can provide a detailed packing checklist before departure.
Yes, we recommend carrying a warm trekking sleeping bag, particularly because nights at High Camp can be cold. Teahouses normally provide blankets, but a sleeping bag gives additional warmth and comfort and is more reliable during colder periods.
The required temperature rating depends on the trekking season, so ask us before departure if you are unsure what sleeping bag to bring.
Wear well-fitting, broken-in trekking boots or sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The route includes stone steps, forest paths, steep sections and potentially wet, muddy, icy or snowy surfaces depending on the season.
Do not start the trek in completely new footwear. Wearing your trekking shoes during training walks before traveling to Nepal helps reduce the chance of blisters and discomfort.
Our standard arrangement provides one porter for every two trekkers, with the shared trekking luggage kept within the porter weight limit specified by Himalayan Dream Team.
You should carry your own small daypack containing water, warm clothing, sunscreen, camera, personal medication and other items you may need during the day's walk. Extra luggage that is not required during the trek can normally be stored securely at your hotel.
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your itinerary and emergency helicopter evacuation.
Your policy should also ideally cover medical treatment, trip interruption or cancellation, lost or delayed baggage and other travel-related emergencies. Check the altitude limit carefully, as some standard policies exclude trekking above certain elevations.
Hot showers are available at some teahouses for an additional charge, although facilities become simpler at higher elevations. At High Camp, availability can depend on weather, water supply and lodge facilities.
Western-style or squat toilets may be found depending on the lodge. Private attached bathrooms should not be expected at higher camps, where shared toilet facilities are normal.
Yes. Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees in smaller denominations for personal expenses such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging, extra drinks, snacks and tips.
Do not depend on finding ATMs along the trekking route. It is much better to withdraw or exchange enough money in Kathmandu or Pokhara before beginning the trek.
Mountain weather can change quickly, and snow, rain, strong winds, poor visibility or difficult trail conditions can occasionally affect the planned hike.
Your guide will assess the conditions and decide whether it is safe to continue. The itinerary may be adjusted when necessary. Reaching Mardi Himal Viewpoint or Base Camp can never be guaranteed, because the safety of trekkers and staff comes first.
Our 11-day Mardi Himal Trek combines the classic high-ridge experience with additional cultural travel. After visiting High Camp, Mardi Himal Viewpoint and the optional Base Camp, our route descends through Lwang Village and continues towards Dhampus, rather than simply ending the trek as quickly as possible.
This gives you a broader experience of the Annapurna region, combining forests and high Himalayan scenery with Gurung villages, terraced landscapes and rural life. You travel with an experienced local team from Himalayan Dream Team, a Nepal-based, women-led trekking company, with permits, accommodation, trekking meals, transportation, guide and porter arrangements organized for you.
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek was the highlight of our trip to Nepal. The trail was peaceful, scenic, and far less crowded than we expected. Every day brought incredible views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Our guide was professional, friendly, and always made sure we were comfortable. Reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp at sunrise was an unforgettable experience. Himalayan Dream Team organized everything perfectly, and we would not hesitate to recommend them.
As first-time trekkers in Nepal, we wanted a route with amazing mountain scenery but without the crowds. Mardi Himal was exactly what we were looking for. The forests, traditional villages, and panoramic ridges were stunning. The itinerary was well-paced, and the support from Himalayan Dream Team was outstanding from arrival to departure. Standing face-to-face with Machhapuchhre was one of the most memorable moments of our lives.
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