Nepal is the name that is famous for its mountains, people, and food. It is no wonder, more than thousands of folks come here to just appreciate the beauty and explore the unexplored places. The country has everything that one seeks from warm hospitality to natural beauty.
Today, let's read about the beautiful Mardi Himal trek in the below article which includes the details of permits, the best month to visit the Camp, things to pack before the trek, every season of the trek, and so on.
The Mardi Himal trek is one of the hidden gems in the Annapurna region. The name of the Mardi Himal is given to the feature of the long rising ridge and its summit from the southwest lower slope of Mount Machhapuchhare(Fishtail), the famous triangular skyline that is seen from the Phewa Lake at Pokhara. The beautiful 4-day route offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountain range including the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, and Manaslu ranges. Australian Camp, Pothana, Mardi Himal base camp, Siding village, and Lwang. Meanwhile, compared to the famous Everest base camp this is less crowded and easy to do.
Best time to visit Mardi Himal
Table of Contents
Mardi Himal Trek
Duration:6 DaysStart fromUS$525US$600
As we have mentioned a couple of times earlier the Mardi Himal trek is a remote trek. Before planning and traveling to a new place it is important to know more about the place. Thus, in the below sub-headings, we have done some amazing research about every month and the temperature of Mardi Himal.
Mardi Himal in January
Trekking in Nepal in January offers you fantastic mountain views, especially from a high point. It is a great time to visit the Himalayas of Nepal as there are very few trekkers and the sky is often clear. In popular trekking areas like the Annapurna region, many tea houses are open in January. Thus, visiting Mardi Himal in January offers you a clear view of Mardi Himal itself. During this month the average maximum temperature of this region is around 0.4°C (33°F) while it drops down to -16.6°C (2°F).
Likewise, while visiting Mardi in January, you will be able to see many interesting villages that are home to Brahmans and Ghales. Passing through several rivers, valleys, rhododendron forests, and small villages to reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Mardi Himal in February
As mentioned, earlier January is one of the coldest months in Nepal. After January the month of February comes with warmer days and nights. During this time, the sky remains crystal blue and the region also experiences low rainfall. Talking about the temperature, it ranges from 4°C-19°C in the valleys of the Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys.
Meanwhile, in the lower trails, the temperature reaches around 9°C-12°C and upper trails range around 1°C-13°C. Similarly, above a 4000 m high altitude the temperature drop significantly around -5°C. Whereas, the day is bright with perfect trekking conditions and clear and unobstructed views of the snow-capped mountains. Overall, the Mardi Himal trek in February is an excellent experience. During this month you will be able to see spectacular views of snow-capped mountains are Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, Himchhuli, Manaslu, and others. The hospitality and the culture and heritage of the Magar and Gurung community will make you return back to visit Mardi Himal again and again.
Mardi Himal in March
In Nepal, March marks the beginning of spring when the temperature increase and the Rhododendrons started to bloom. Similarly, the temperature during this month rises up to 20 degrees and the average would go anywhere from 17 degrees in the daytime. This month is also regarded to be one of the best months to visit the Place. Because of the color of flora and fauna and blooming Rhododendron Forest and the rich biodiversity.
Mardi Himal In April
Generally, In Nepal April is hot and sunny on Nepal's plains. During this month the average temperature is around 17-20 degrees Celsius. While in the morning and evening time, the temperatures may drop down 5-10 degrees Celsius due to occasional downpours.
According to previous trekkers, April is considered to be the best month to hike Mardi Himal. During this month the sky remains crystal clear and the day is also warm. Not only that you can also encounter the lush jungle of rhododendron and oak trees. If you are thinking about trekking to Mardi Himal in April then go for it. Overall, trekking Mardi Himal in April is the perfect option for those who want to reach at the base of the gorgeous Mardi Himal.
Mardi Himal in May
Well, May is another beautiful spring month that is regarded to be one of the best months to trek Mardi Himal. As similar to the month of April, the sky remains quite clear and the sight of the mountain throughout the trek is simply spellbinding. The average maximum temperature may reach 20 degrees and the average would go anywhere from 17 degrees in the daytime. The teahouses on the trail wait and welcome you.
Mardi Himal In June
The month of June in Nepal is the monsoon season. During this time the days are clearer with a pleasant sky. Because of the good weather and clear sight, you will able to see plenty of snow-covered mountains and rhododendron-covered mountains. The average temperature during this month is around 20 degrees Celsius during the day while it drops to 5 degrees during the night. Changes in rainfall are also high. Thus, if you are planning to visit Mardi in June pack accordingly. Also, be careful about the Leeches.
Mardi Himal in July
Trekking in the Monsoon region might be difficult as compared to trekking in other regions. The average temperature will go up ranging from 10 to 23 degrees. Due to the occasional downpour, the temperature is around 5-10 degrees in the mornings and evenings. Be sure to carry your rain gear like rain jackets, a strong and sturdy trekking boots. Also, pack your waterproof socks and trekking pants.
Mardi Himal in August
Visiting Mardi Himal in August is the best season for you. During this month, the sky remains clear, the days are pleasant and the temperature is moderate. The average temperature of Mardi Himal during this month is around 10 to 23 degrees. However, due to the rain, the temperature drops down to 5-10 degrees in the mornings and evenings. As we have mentioned above the view from the Mardi Himal base camp is jaw-dropping.
Mardi Himal in September
Talking about the temperature of Mardi Himal during September is moderate during day time; it is around 20 degree Celsius and it may drop down to 5 degree Celsius at night time. Compared to the other month the risk of leeches and mosquitoes is low. While the rainfall is very less in early September. The pros of visiting Mardi Himal in September are the trails are not crowded and you can enjoy your peaceful time.
Mardi Himal in October
October is generally considered to be the best time to trek in Nepal. It gets quite crowded so pre-booking is essential. During this month, the sky remains crystal clear and the days are pleasing with moderate temperatures. The daytime average ranges from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius meanwhile the temperature drops down 5 degrees during the night. Yes, the night might be much colder. Moreover, the chances of rainfall are almost nil. However, the view from the Mardi Himal base camp and the trails along with the bunch of rhododendron flowers and oak trees will surprisingly welcome you. If you are thinking about visiting Mardi Himal in October then go for it.
Mardi Himal in November
Autumn is considered to be one of the best times of the year for the Mardi Himal Trek. Generally, autumn falls in the month of September, October, and November. It is one of the peak seasons for trekking in Nepal. The season is the post-monsoon period due to which the surrounding Annapurna region becomes clear because of the summer rainfall. The average temperature during this month is 17-20 degrees Celsius, it ranges from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius in the daytime and it drops down nearly 5 degree Celsius. If you are heading to Mardi Himal during this season be sure to carry rain gear like rain jackets, trekking boots, and waterproof pants.
Mardi Himal in December
December is the month of Christmas and falls in the winter season. The days start to become cold and the temperature begins to drop. At higher altitudes, you will see the trails covered by snow and the trails might also get blocked also. The average temperature ranges from 9 to 12 degrees during the daytime while the temperature falls down up to -5 degrees at night time. Interestingly, the temperature drops down by 5 degrees every time 1000 m. After reaching over there the reward will bless you with amazing landscapes, and teahouses.
Trekking in Mardi Himal is doable in all months. It all depends upon you when to travel. Hope this article might help you to know more about the weather of Mardi Himal.
Permits needed for the Mardi Himal trek
To travel to any part of Nepal, you must have a certain permit. Without a permit, traveling here is illegal. As Mardi Himal lies in the Annapurna Sanctuary area, you will need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS card. You can get both of these permits at the Tourism Information Center in Kathmandu or in Pokhara. To get this permit you must have your own passport, insurance, a contact person in Nepal (we usually give our hotel details), and 4 passport-size photos.
If you are traveling with travel agencies, they will manage everything for you. Also, the TIMS costs you around NRS 2000 per person. This equals about 17 USD or 15 EUR. It is better to do paperwork while staying in Pokhara because it is near the Mardi Himal. To get the TIMS card first you have to fill in the form that you get at the counter. After filling out the form submit it to the office along with two photos and NPR 2000/US$15 pp. (paid only in Nepalese Rupee) at the counter.
Similarly, for the Annapurna Sanctuary Permit; first, you must have your TIMS card and fill out the form and submit it along with your passport, two photos, and NPR 3000/US$23 pp at the counter and get your permit.
What to pack for Mardi Himal Trek?
It is obvious to have conundrums regarding the items you might require during the trek. Your final decision of what to take and what not to take in the trip matters a lot making your journey successful or making it just a hassle. You must be aware of the climatic conditions of the region you are traveling to in order to decide the type of clothes for packing. Sometimes the wrong choice of trekking gear can cause problems ruining your whole trip.
We need proper trekking equipment and clothing in order to Mardi Himal trek. Although trekking to Mardi Himal is considered an easy trek, you should have a proper packing list. Because if you go without Proper trekking gear, it might get hard to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp or even get success.
The packing list below is prepared with the recommendation of experienced trekkers and our local experts that will help you pick up the right items. However, it is merely the guidelines. You may have to manage depending on your own needs, interest, and the season of your trip.
All the necessary items can be bought in Kathmandu and in Pokhara. Some of the trekking gear like a sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc. that you do not need frequently can also be hired for your trip. That may charge you on daily basis. Go through our complete packing list and avail yourself of the unlimited pleasures in the Himalayas. Here is the list that is necessary to do Mardi Trekking.
- Rucksack with a waterproof cover (30-35 liters capacity): The one you need at first for keeping other essentials.
- A pair of shoes: This trip is not much difficult so, any outdoor shoes work for you. However, if you have the official hiking boots, it is great. Whichever you take ensure that is lighter.
- Hiking pants: These pants contain extra side pockets and they can also be folded into knee-length shorts
- Waterproof trousers or a pair of yoga pants: It makes you more comfortable for a hike. Choose double layers that help you keep warm
- Thermal shirts and trousers: They should be thick enough to maintain heat but make sure they should be flexible for proper movement.
- T-shirts: Better if you manage for each day
- Fleece jacket/down jacket
- Wind/waterproof jacket
- Socks: 4-6 pairs
- Underwear: 4-6 pairs
- Sunglasses and sun hat: Essential for protecting your face and neck from direct sunlight
- Sun protection cream
- Lip balm
- Woolen cap or Balaclava: It is important to protect your face and neck from the bitter cold
- Inner and outer gloves
- Headlamp
- Power bank/extra batteries
- Wet wipes/hand sanitizers
- Towel
- Rubber sandal
- toiletries
- Reusable water bottles and water purification tablets
- Sleeping bag
- Enough cash for the trek: You rarely find ATMs in the trekking trail
- Camera
Optional Items for Trekking
- Hiking Boots: Besides trekking shoes, if you manage a pair of hiking boots having a strong grip and ankle support, it works best for trekking in the most difficult trail too. But be sure, they are perfect in size and light enough to wear for long hours.
- Trekking pole: It might be useful for you on a slippery and complicated trail.
- Toilet paper: You can also buy it on the way.
- First-aid- Kit: No bother for an organized group as your guide will carry. Still, you are suggested to include some of the items like motion sickness pills, electronic thermometer, aspirin, iodine tablets, birth control, some oral rehydration packets, and tiger balm which is great for bites and stings.
- Sleeping bag liner
- Wristwatch
- Dust mask: Useful especially for a dusty section of the trail.
- Money belt
- Menstrual supplies for women
- Favorite snacks/herbal teas
- Games or books: Can be useful for ‘downtime’
- Maps/language or guide books: Essential for independent trekkers but no bother for organized group
Essential Documents
- Travel Insurance: It is a must to make the trek in the Himalayas. The Insurance policy covers you for any unexpected accidents and emergencies.
- Passport: It is the basic document to enter any foreign country.
- Nepal Visa: A Visa is essential for most foreigners to stay in Nepal. It can be acquired in Kathmandu or in advance at your nearest Nepali Embassy or consulate. Generally, the visa fee is $40 for one month.
- Tickets: We recommend you make at least 3 copies of all your documents. Take one with you, one at the house, and one with your travel partner that becomes helpful in times of emergency.
Aren’t You Overpacking?
- Journal or book: You might think this is a great time to read but mostly it is not practical. In case you have to do it, it is to better download it on your phone.
- Drone: It is amazing to capture stunning views using drones but most parts of Nepal are restricted to drones. It might be only the extra weight for you.
- Laptop: Most things you can do on your phone. It does not only add extra weight but also adds the trouble of protecting it in the bag. It might get broken unless it is put in the bag safely.
- Snacks: The snacks at the teahouse and on the trail might be more delicious.