Can I extend my holiday like a day trip in Kathmandu or other Activities?
Yes, you definitely can extend your Mardi Himal Trek. Right after the magnificent view of Fishtail Mountain and the Annapurna range, you will realize there is so much more to explore in Nepal. We will be happy to recommend a few touristic and rewarding activities for the enrichment and diversification of your trip.
- Kathmandu Sightseeing City Tour
- Day Hike Nagarjun Hill in Kathmandu
- Trishuli River Rafting Day Tour
- Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking 2 night 3 days
- Jeep Safari in Kathmandu
- Mountain bike tour in Kathmandu
- Shivapuri National Park Hike Day trip
- Chitwan jungle safari 2 nights 3 days
- Tibet tour and Bhutan tour and many more
Can I store my luggage/Suitcase in Kathmandu?
Traveling light during the trek is more comfortable, and the good news is that one can quickly have his or her extra luggage stored in Kathmandu at our office or at the hotel you are staying in. Happy Land Treks offers safe storage services where you can store your suitcase or backpack to leave what you don't need and wander more freely on your trek. This easy option doesn't let one be bothered about excess baggage weighing them down because the bags are taken good care of. This, therefore, makes your transition from city to mountain seamless and hassle-free.
Free airport pickup and drop from the company
OOur company offers you a free airport pickup and drop facility. Our representative will welcome you when you arrive at Kathmandu airport, holding your name play card at the arrival gate. He will help you to transfer from the airport to the hotel hassle-free. When your trip to Nepal is over, we will also drop you off at the international airport on time.
Differences between solo trek, private trek, and group trek
Solo Trek
A solo trek is the ultimate freedom. You can go at your own pace, on your own schedule, and with a guide and porter dedicated to you, the trip can be tailored exactly to you. Take as many days as you like; rest when you want to or keep going if it suits you. Your guide and porter will take care of everything for you .
Private Trek
A private trek allows you to go on an adventure with the people you choose, giving you the freedom to make this trip your own. You can decide upon the itinerary and duration of the trek and even add places you would like to visit. The trek is completely on dates of your choice, plans can be changed, and treks can be customized at your pace. You are with people you know — without any restrictions on numbers, so it will be kind of a small outing for you, and we will help you design just what you want.
Group Trek
This is one of the great ways to meet new people. It is a fantastic opportunity to explore with a diversified group of trekkers, normally in groups of 2-10 individuals of different backgrounds. The group trek follows a specified departure date and itinerary; thus, it is a bit structured but also social. You will be trekking on the same trail with people of similar interests, following certain guidelines and enjoying the camaraderie that only a group expedition of people from the world over can bring with it.
Family Trek
Family treks are designed in such a way that every member of the family, whatever his/her age may be, can comfortably trek safely. Family trekking, in other words, is comfort and flexibility and customized itineraries- the rhythm of the family pace and needs. Guides listen to every health need and provide extra support if needed. Family trek ensures memorable and enriching time in nature, taking care to make it enjoyable.
Is Mardi Himal Trek safe for solo or female travelers?
Yes, Mardi Himal Trek is normally safe for solo and female travelers. It will be far more comfortable if you have support from local guides and agencies. The trek route goes upwards via quite a quiet and peaceful path. Generally, it's secure, but situations beyond your imagination may occur, so it is better to have locals assist you if anything goes wrong. We highly recommend Happland Treks going with a local guide to make the whole experience smoother and much safer. From our experience within the Nepalese trekking areas, including Annapurna, having a local guide with you is generally very helpful and reassuring. Our experience of handling solo female trekkers going on treks in Nepal- from Everest to Annapurna and on to Langtang- is safe and successful.
Drinking water on the Mardi Himal Trekking
There are teahouses and guesthouses on the way from where you can easily get clean water throughout Mardi Himal Trek. Even though boiled or filtered water may be available, it's best if safe drinking water practices are highlighted. You can fill up water from the taps en route but surely will have to purify using Steripen or purification tablets. Purification tablets are also available at Kathmandu and Pokhara marts and pharmacies. However, buying a Steripen from your home country is best to ensure reliability. Just dip it in your water bottle and switch it on; the water shall be cleaned in less than a minute.
What to expect on the Mardi Himal Trek?
Mardi Himal Trek is the best short trek that cuts through lush forests, traditional villages, and panoramic mountain vistas. The route is moderate yet rewarding; it takes you on this trek slowly to the breathtaking viewpoints on the Annapurna range, Machapuchare-commonly known as Fishtail and Mardi Himal. Accommodations in rusty lodges with friendly locals and capturing rhododendron forests have always been particularly wonderful. It is one perfect destination for trekkers who like privacy. The whole track is well-marked.
Typical day on The Mardi Himal Trek
The trek from Pokhara starts with a 40-minute drive to Phedi and a trek to Deurali. Then your daily routine sets into a very comfortable rhythm-you will enjoy hot breakfasts at 7 am at your teahouse before shouldering your pack and hitting the trail by 7:45 am.
Hiking through this magnificent mountain scenery, you will walk 5 to 7 hours most days. Lunch will be at one of the many tea houses en route, where you will have much time to rest and refuel. The trek continues in the afternoon, and you get to your overnight stop for dinner at about 7 pm. Here, you share stories with fellow trekkers about the day's events as you prepare for another action-filled day.
Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek
Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Trek is basic and shared; shared beds, with twin or triple sharing, are available. As many as four beds could be shared in a shared room among the trekkers. Basic facilities will be provided; shared bathing facilities with showers are usually provided outside. The Kathmandu accommodation is not included in this package. Our team will always be there to facilitate booking accommodations and any other inquiries about travel for your visit to Nepal.
Training Requirement for Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is moderately easy, and training is not essential, though some preparation may make the trek all the more enjoyable. The trek has moderate ascents and descents; hence, endurance can be developed with light exercises like walking, jogging, or stair climbing a few weeks in advance. Walking a week or so in advance prepares your body for 5-6 hours of hiking daily. Hardcore training is not required, but your experience in trekking would be an added advantage. Most people with basic fitness can do this trek with and without training.
Mountain sickness and prevention on the trek
Acute Mountain Sickness is one of the most common problems a trekker may face on this high-altitude trek. Mardi Himal Trek is no exception either. Less oxygen might cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and tiredness during your ascent. The condition can occur, especially over 2500 meters of elevation.
Prevention Strategies for AMS
- Good acclimatization is crucial to stop AMS from occurring during the Mardi Himal Trek.
- Climb gradually and allow your body much time to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Rest days or lighter hikes into higher altitudes are good in preparing a person before continued ascent.
- Keep the body hydrated: drinking much water throughout the day may support its acclimatization even more effectively.
- Moreover, not drinking alcohol and not smoking support a body in acclimatization.
What is the best season for Mardi Himal Trek?
Mardi Himal Trek is possible at every season of the year. One can do it as an on-season trek or as an off-season trek. The best time for trekking is during the spring and autumn when climatic preconditions are pretty favorable and the trails bustle with fellow trekkers. However, one should not remember that the mountains and their climate and weather change unpredictably; thus, the climate might alter within seconds.
Spring Season
Spring is one of the best times to do this trek; skies are clear, temperatures are mild, and the trails are painted with rhododendrons. Expect moderate crowds and very pleasant conditions to trek.
Autumn Season
September to October is another good season, as during autumn, the atmosphere gets crispy with fresh mountain views and a lively landscape just after the monsoon. More trekkers prefer this period, hence making trails lively.
Off-season: Monsoon and Winter
The monsoon season falls between June and August, though slightly more difficult, while in winter, it falls between November and February of the year. Though fewer people go, one can expect wet trails during the monsoon season and cold, snowy trails during winter.
Equipment and trekking kit necessary for
- The essential equipment for the Mardi Himal Trek includes a reliable backpack (40-60 liters), a quality sleeping bag (rated for 0°C) and a four-season tent for camping.
- Clothing should include Insulated jackets, Waterproof outer layers., Thermal gloves and hats.
- Trekking poles help you feel more stable on uneven terrain.
- Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support
- A first-aid kit and any personal medications or supplies you might need
- Sunscreen, lip balm, toiletries, and water bottles (at least 2-3 liters total capacity) are needed.
- If going cross-country, navigation tools such as map/compass/GPS, read our latest post here for a detailed packing list.
Food during the Mardi Himal Trek
There will be food variety on the Mardi Himal Trek because each teahouse will have its own menu items. You can order anything from these menus, including normally calm and international dishes. You will probably be serving yourself with Dal Bhat, a traditional Nepali dish of steamed rice, dal, and variations of vegetables, curry, and pickles- all in one serving. Compared to what you are used to in urban areas, all the foods are prepared carefully, and hygiene is considered. This will be a great culinary experience, refueling local flavors.
Toilet and shower in the mountain lodge
You will find Western and squat toilets in mountain lodges, though there are more Western-style toilets. Extremely recommended that you get a hot shower, payable, provided in bucket water or gas geysers at an extra cost of US$ 3 to 5 per person. Also, bring your toiletries like shampoo, soap, and toilet paper, which will add to your comfort. Similarly, having your things with you guarantees hygiene and comfort throughout your stay. The facilities shall be basic but adequate for trekking, and you might keep some comfort in the mountains.
Mobile, camera battery charge and WIFI on the trek
Regarding teahouses, there are no multiple plug-ins in your rooms, and you have to charge all your devices, such as mobile phones and cameras, in the common hall. Be prepared to pay an extra $3-5 every time you recharge them. It's much better to have a power bank or an extra battery to cope with them.
Almost every teahouse has Wi-Fi available. But you are going to a mountainous area, so you must not expect it to be good when talking about Wi-Fi. Trekkers can access Wi-Fi, which costs somewhere between $3 to $5. It is highly recommended that you buy a local SIM card for better internet quality and to keep in touch with your family or friends. This will keep you connected in case of an emergency.
What is the highest altitude of the trek?
Mardi Himal Trek reaches a height of about 4,500 meters at the base camp of Mardi Himal. This viewpoint lets one get stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges. The trekking is very well managed, allowing easy trekking without complications.
Money exchange in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, currency exchange is available almost everywhere. Hotels and banks can also help you change your money into the local currency. Over 1,000 ATMs are found within Thamel to make cash withdrawals quite easy. Second, if one is booked with a hotel or a tour operator, then both of them can help change the money into local currency for use. Nevertheless, no money is exchangeable in the mountains; it is, therefore, necessary to carry enough cash in advance well before any trekking starts.
Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty level
Mardi Himal Trek is rated as a moderate trek. It falls under the comfortable trail category for reasonably fit trekkers who may have some experience. The trail winds through steep climbs, rugged paths, and quite an altitude gain right to the top at Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). The trek route has erratic weather patterns, demanding a hiker be ready for variable changeability, and uneven, rocky, rich terrain at higher altitudes. Normally, it is a 9-day trek, but mopderate is difficult yet very rewarding. This trek presents great views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges.
Weather in the Mardi Himal Trek
The general weather patterns of Mardi Himal Trek are always unpredictable and change rapidly. Generally speaking, high altitude means that the best seasons for trekking are autumn-from September to November-and spring-from March to May, during which the sky and moderate temperatures are clear. One may also trek during winter, though colder; the monsoon season brings heavy rain between June and August, thus making the trail all muddy with low visibility.
January:
Mardi Himal in January is pretty cold, with the temperature lying between -15°C to 5° or 5°F to 41°F, and at high altitude, it is far colder. Much of the snow lies at high altitudes; hence, the conditions might get tough. Usually, days are clear and sunny, but nights get cold.
February:
This is a cold month. Normal temperatures range from -10°C to 10°C, 14°F to 50°F. There is snow and ice on the higher parts of the trek. The weather often clears up, and it can be a beautifully crisp month, although nighttime temperatures remain low.
March:
Normally, March celebrates the onset of spring with warm temperatures and snow melting. The temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C, which is 32°F to 59°F, and hence much more pleasant. The environment showcases into different colors because many wildflowers bloom and provide clear views of the Annapurna ranges.
April:
This is really the ideal time to go trekking in the country when the temperature stays pretty favorable, ranging between 5° C to 20° C (41° F to 68° F). During this month, warm days and cool nights usher in to have made pleasant trekking conditions. The forests are lush with rhododendron blooms; visibility remains very good.
May:
In May, the climate becomes even hotter, starting from 10°C to 25°C (50°F-77°F); however, there will be increased humidity as the month draws to a close. Generally, the weather is stable; however, the mountain may sometimes get masked by clouds and haze. This is the last month before the monsoon season begins.
June:
In June, the monsoon gradually sets in with daily rain showers amid fluctuating temperatures. The trails start getting muddy and slippery; visibility drops owing to frequent rain clouds veiling the mountains, and wet conditions make leeches common in the lower areas, too.
July:
July is a month of heavy monsoon rain, very high humidity, and temperatures that fluctuate from 15°C to 22°C. This makes the trek hazardous because of landslides and slippery trails. Besides having very few clear views, thunderstorms are also more frequent, making it the worst month to go trekking.
August:
August is also a month of monsoon, though the rainfall considerably reduces after the end of this month. The temperature oscillates at 15°C to 22°C (59°-72°F). Due to the muddy trails with very poor visibility and greater risk of landslides, August is not very good for trekking either.
September:
September is the end of the monsoon; 10°C-20°C, 50°F-68°F. Trails start to dry, and the skies clear; mountain views are great. Landscapes are lush and green from the end of the monsoon rains, and the weather is usually stable, making September a very popular month for trekking.
October
:October is considered the best month to go on Mardi Himal Trek. The temperature varies from 5°C to 15°C or 41°F to 59°F; in addition, the skies are clear with very minimal rain, hence good visibility to trekkers. During this time of the year, the trails might be somewhat crowded; however, the optimal weather provides stunning panoramic views, which one can keep for life by capturing them through photography.
November:
It continues to be ideal for trekking in November, too, while the temperature ranges around 0°C to 10°C, about 32°F to 50°F. The skies continue to remain pretty clear, though the temperature gradually subsides in this period of time as winter starts. These trails are pretty less crowded by the end of the month. The visibility remains excellent, hence allowing one to have a crisp trekking experience.
December:
It begins to get cold during December. The temperature ranges from -5°C to 5° or 23°F to 41°F. Generally, heavy snowfall has fallen in high-altitude areas. This adds beauty to the place but also, on the other hand, makes the trails icy and slippery. The good thing is that the skies and the view are clear, though nights and mornings are very cold.
How are the Trails of Mardi Himal Trek?
The exciting Mardi Himal Trek trails consist of many wooden bridges and diverse terrain. The uphill walk to reach the 4,250-meter viewpoint is quite uphill, steep down while on the way back home. Ups and downs will continuously keep your trekking lively. You have green hills and valleys around. This adds more beauty to nature around your trek route. You will also see friendly locals give a view of Buddhist culture. The Mardi Himal Trek becomes one of the most memorable adventures of your life if you are a trekker.
Travel and trekking insurance in the high-altitude
Mardi Himal Trek This is considered an excellent trek that reaches an altitude of 4,500m and requires proper insurance coverage. The trails take you into the most remote parts of Nepal, and in case of an emergency, evacuations are possible only by helicopter. Your insurance should cover high-altitude sickness because its rapid gain in altitude affects trekkers. The insurance requirement is given for emergency medical rescue, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, and loss/damage of the equipment.
Nepal visa information
The Visa Policy of Nepal is comparatively easygoing, and one can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or from the land border. Your passport has to be valid at least six months beyond your arrival date, and the pages should be blank for visa stamps. You'll also need to carry passport-sized photos and pay an exact amount in dollars for the visa fee. Citizens of most nationalities can get visas upon arrival, but some need prior approval; do make sure to check current requirements from an official source. In the meantime, if you need a further extension for your stay, this can be done at the Department of Immigration, Kathmandu, and other places.
Tipping - Tips to the guide and porter
You must tip your guide and porter. The end of your trek is a good time to show how much you appreciate all the hard work and encouragement they have provided. There is no fixed amount to tip; it’s entirely up to you to the travelers. A generous tip rewards their efforts and provokes an appreciation of gratitude and respect for their services.
Trekking Feedback
We also invite you for a farewell dinner in Kathmandu after your successful completion of the trekking journey. The dinner is a grand time to be shared with us and your co-travelers. Please do not hesitate to share your journey experiences- they are priceless for us and the upcoming trekkers. Also, please never forget to review our website or other sites like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews. Your comments will be helpful to others in making the right decision and also to us to improve our service.
