Mardi Himal Trek is an amazing journey in the serenity of the coveted Annapurna region. It is fair enough to claim that all the Trekking routes in the Annapurna region are already mapped and walked by thousands and thousands of trekkers from all over the world. Provided the Mardi Himal trekking is a recent addition to the list of Annapurna’s magnificence, it remains off-the-beaten for now. The Mardi Himal Trail was officially inaugurated in the year 2012. In the last couple of years, the trails have been increasing the annual number of trekkers. The splendid blend of scenery, and cultural and natural riches have remained unadulterated so far. The unforgettable experience that the trekkers bring back from Mardi Himal Trek is something they can’t help but talk about back home. Turns out, the easy and accessible Mardi Himal Trek is the best-kept hidden secret of the Annapurna. No wonder the region is garnering quick popularity for a few years. The number of trekkers who flock to the Mardi track is still way less compared to its counterparts like the Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill. These statistics just sum up an amazing and exotic best-kept beauty in the lap of the almighty Annapurna.
If you are an avid mountain lover, you already have several reasons to set off for the Mardi Himal Trek. Here we present you the top 6 best Mardi Himal Trek Highlights:
Secluded destination
Officially opened for trekkers in 2012, Mardi Himal Trek is a new addition to the list of amazing trekking destinations in Nepal. Mardi Himal Trek doesn’t welcome as many trekkers as the other routes in the Annapurna sanctuary. This phenomenon has been keeping the natural assets of the region as authentic as they can get. Unlike many other off-the-beaten tracks, this trek is nowhere near to being remote. The accommodations are absolutely fine and facilitated for a mountain setting. Yet, the mountain majesties have remained authentic in their domain. The trails are tranquil and quaint and the mountain sights of the Annapurna massif are divine. The trails in this trek certainly go around the rides of the Annapurna Sanctuary. This means you have the opportunity to relish the vegetation and wilderness of the protected acreage.
Accessible and Affordable Trekking
The Mardi Himal Trek is very close in proximity to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara. This trip is fairly moderate with around seven days of walking affair. Moreover, the accessibility of this destination is a real benefit when it comes to beginner trekkers. The highest altitude reached in this trek is 4200 meters at Upper View Point from where the sight of Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail), Hiunchuli, and south Annapurna is impeccable. This trek is widely preferred by the Nepali people as well. It has yet to garner the attention it deserves on the global platform and with the beauties laden in it, the wait might be way shorter than expected. The cost of this trek is remarkably reasonable as well. Mardi Himal Trek is worth the coin.
Spectacular views of the mountains
As Mardi Himal Trek goes around the southern coast of the Annapurna sanctuary, it readily offers the mystic grandeur of the region. As far as the trail goes to a higher altitude, a trekker can relish the breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre, and the Mardi Himal (5,587 meters) itself. The Mardi Himal is soaring with its sober beauty among the giant peaks. The golden hour at the mountains during sunrise is mesmerizing when looked upon from the vantage of Upper View Point. The sights at Low Camp and High Camp are equally wonderful. One obvious thing about the mountains is the unpredictable weather. The wind blow can either clear the view or envelope the sights with clouds on a whim. Either way, the magical moment at the mountains will sway you away.
Ethnic Villages on the way
Just like many other trekking in the Annapurna region, Mardi Himal Trek sets off from the exuberantly beautiful valley of Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna. The trek gradually stretches towards the ethnic villages of Phedi, Pothana, Siding, and Lumre. The settlements at these villages foster quaint Brahmin with a blend of Gurung culture. The people are welcoming and have adapted themselves to the sights of yomping trekkers coming their way.
Australian Camp
Australian camp is a scenic stop on the trail at an altidute of 2060 meters. it offers trekkers the stunning views of Annapurna South, machhapuchhre(Fishtail), Hiunchuli, Lamjung Himal along with many other surrounding peaks. The journey begins from Pokhara with 40 mins drive to either kande or Phedi. while starting from kande, it nearly takes 2 hour hike through lush forest and farming villages whereas it takes about 3 hours as it is a bit challenging route with serve climbs. The trail connects to Dhurung and Dhampus village passing through forest ways and lively local communities known for their tradition and welcoming hospitality.
The Forest Camp
The Forest Camp at an elevation of 2600 meters is one of the epic stops during the Mardi Himal Trek. The trail to the Forest Camp from the Pothana village is decorated with dense forests of oak, maple, hemlock, and rhododendrons (too obvious!). At Forest Camp, you will most likely get the vibe of a wilderness explorer. The area is known as Kokar among the locals and has dotted lodges for the night’s accommodation. The accommodations are basic and homely. You might fall asleep to the sound of crickets buzzing in the surroundings. If you happen to trek during summer, this buzzing will be music to your ears.
Low Camp and High Camp
The campsites at the foot of Mardi Himal are an absolute highlight of the trek. The first part of the trail from Forest Camp to Low Camp is laden with lush alpine vegetation. As it gets closer to the Low Camp, the trail winds up to the clearing where more rhododendron trees and fern bushes are found. At Low Camp (3,150 meters), the sight of Mt. Machhapuchhre is surreal. High Camp (3,600 meters) is an hour or so away from the Low Camp. The trail leaves the tree line and opens towards the west from where Annapurna South and the Hiunchuli are surmounted in the backdrop. Mardi Himal is soaring in seek of the attention that it deserves. This is an easy and sedated journey full of mountain virtues and natural wonders. Mardi Himal Trek is full of adventures! It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity serving you an experience of a lifetime and for a lifetime.
Badal Dada
Badal dada also known to be Cloud Hill is a relaxed viewpoint on the way to low camp at an elevation of 2500 meters. The trail through badal dada comes with gentle high and lows stepping to the way of dense rhododendron forest. After a moderate half hour hike, trekkers are greeted with 360 views of Annapurna Range which includes Machhapuchhre(Fushtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Mardi Himal. This scenic spot is not only ideal for stunning views but also gives you the best location for camping along the Mardi Himal trekking route.
Mardi Himal High Camp
High Camp is the gateway to Mardi Himal Base Camp at an elevation of 3350 meters, also the final overnight stop before Mardi Base Camp. The next morning earlier than breakfast, trekkers can step up on 2 and half hour climb to Mardi Himal Base camp for an memorable sunrise view over the Himalayan range. Those looking for flexibility can option to stay overnight at badal dada or low camp, it's upto their choice. trekkers can also move down to siding village along the downhill trail passing through lush forest and farmlands getting a chance to observe animals like yaks and horses along the way.
