Mardi Himal Trek, 13-day guided hike in the Himalayas

The Mardi Himal trek is a relatively short and easy trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The distance and altitude gain covered each day will depend on the trekking itinerary, the fitness level of the group, and the pace of the trek.

Generally, the Mardi Himal trek covers a distance of around 45-50 kilometers (28-31 miles) over a period of 5-7 days, with an average altitude gain of around 400-600 meters (1,300-1,970 feet) per day.

The Mardi Himal trek is a relatively easy trek and can be done by people with a moderate level of fitness and trekking experience. You don't need to have any technical climbing skills, but you should be able to walk for several hours a day with a backpack.

Here are some guidelines on the required experience and fitness level for the Mardi Himal trek:

Experience:

Previous trekking experience is recommended but not required.

Familiarity with high altitude trekking is helpful, but not essential.

Basic knowledge of mountain safety, such as altitude sickness and proper acclimatization, is important.

Fitness level:

A moderate level of fitness is required for the Mardi Himal trek.

You should be able to walk for 4-6 hours a day on hilly and uneven terrain.

Regular exercise, such as jogging, swimming or cycling, before the trek is recommended to build up your stamina.

Children and older people:

The Mardi Himal trek is suitable for children aged 10 and above, as long as they have the required level of fitness and can walk for several hours a day.

Older people can also do the trek as long as they are in good health and have the required level of fitness.

It's important to consult with a doctor before embarking on the trek, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Overall, the Mardi Himal trek is a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without the crowds and difficulty of more strenuous treks. With the right preparation and mindset, anyone can do the trek and enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty of the Annapurna region.

Peregrine Treks will provide airport transfer service. We will pick you up from Kathmandu airport and drop off you there.

Accommodation and meals are usually included in the Mardi Himal trek package. The type of accommodation you'll stay in will vary depending on the trekking company and the trekking route. Typically, you'll stay in basic teahouses or lodges along the trekking trail.

Teahouses or lodges are simple guesthouses that provide basic facilities such as a bed, a blanket, and a pillow. Some teahouses also have attached bathrooms, while others have shared bathroom facilities. Hot showers are usually available for an additional cost.

Regarding meals, most teahouses or lodges serve a variety of meals, including Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and continental dishes. Some common dishes include dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), noodles, pasta, momos (dumplings), and soups. Vegetarian options are usually available.

The trekking package usually includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with tea or coffee. Some trekking companies also provide snacks, such as cookies or energy bars, to take on the trail.

It's important to note that the quality and variety of the meals can vary depending on the teahouse or lodge you stay in. Some teahouses may have limited options or lower-quality food, while others may offer more variety and higher-quality meals.

Yes, there are some special requirements that you need to consider before going on the Mardi Himal trek. These requirements include:

Permits: You need to obtain two permits for the Mardi Himal trek - the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara through a trekking company or through the Nepal Tourism Board. Your trekking company should be able to arrange these permits for you.

Insurance: It's highly recommended to get travel insurance that covers high altitude trekking and emergency medical evacuation in case of an accident or illness. Make sure to check the terms and conditions of the insurance policy to ensure that it covers trekking activities and the altitude range you'll be trekking in.

Vaccines: You should consult with your doctor or a travel clinic to see if you need any vaccinations before traveling to Nepal. Some common vaccinations recommended for travelers to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus.

Altitude sickness prevention: The Mardi Himal trek involves trekking at high altitudes, and altitude sickness can be a concern. It's important to take precautions to prevent altitude sickness, such as acclimatizing properly, staying hydrated, and taking medication if needed. Consult with your doctor or a travel clinic for advice on altitude sickness prevention.

Trekking gear: You'll need to have proper trekking gear for the Mardi Himal trek, such as sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a backpack, and a sleeping bag. It's important to pack light but also ensure that you have all the necessary gear to stay comfortable and safe during the trek.

The best time to go for the Mardi Himal trek is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons when the weather is generally clear and dry, and the views are spectacular.

During the autumn season, the skies are usually clear, and the temperatures are mild, making it an ideal time for trekking. The fall season is also the time when many festivals take place in Nepal, such as Dashain and Tihar, and you can get a chance to experience the local culture and traditions.

In the spring season, the weather is also favorable for trekking, with warm temperatures and clear skies. The hills and forests are covered with colorful rhododendron flowers, making it a beautiful time to trek.

During the winter months (December to February), the weather can be cold and snowy, and the trails may be slippery, making it challenging for trekking. However, it is still possible to do the Mardi Himal trek during this time, and there are fewer crowds on the trail.

During the monsoon season (June to August), the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rains and landslides, making it difficult for trekking. The trails may also be muddy and slippery, and the views may be obstructed by clouds and fog. It's not recommended to do the Mardi Himal trek during this time.

Yes, you can join a group for the Mardi Himal trek. Joining a group is a great way to meet other trekkers, share the cost of a guide, and have a more social experience on the trek.

In the event of bad weather during the Mardi Himal trek, the safety of trekkers is the top priority. Your guide will be monitoring the weather forecast and assessing the conditions throughout the trek.

If the weather is too severe to continue, your guide may decide to change the itinerary or halt the trek for a day or two until the weather improves. During this time, you'll stay in a tea house or lodge, and your guide will provide you with information about the situation and update you on the weather forecast.

If the weather conditions are hazardous, such as heavy rain, snow, or landslides, the guide may decide to halt the trek and wait until the weather improves. In some cases, it may be necessary to backtrack to a lower elevation for safety reasons.

It's important to follow your guide's instructions and be flexible with the itinerary in case of unforeseen weather conditions. Make sure to have extra days in your itinerary to allow for possible weather delays or changes.

In case of an emergency, your guide will have a plan in place to evacuate you safely to the nearest medical facility. It's essential to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation in case of an accident or illness during the trek.