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Consider the Mardi Himal Trek if you’re considering trekking in Nepal. For those who like to take in the Himalayan scenery without making a huge commitment, this journey is ideal. Let’s explore some of the trek’s highlights and how long it takes. In order to help you better understand what to anticipate, I’ll also briefly discuss my personal experience.
How Long Does the Mardi Himal Trek Take?
The Mardi Himal Trek typically takes about 5 to 7 days. It is relatively a short trek. The exact duration depends on your pace, the weather, and how long you want to spend at each stop. Here’s a rough breakdown of the trek:
Day 1: Drive to Kande and Trek to Australian Camp
- Duration: 1-hour drive, 4-hour trek
- Highlights: Beautiful views of the mountains and the first glimpse of the trekking route.
Day 2: Trek to Forest Camp
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Highlights: Walking through lush forests filled with rhododendrons and listening to the sounds of birds.
Day 3: Trek to Low Camp
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Highlights: As you climb higher, the trees become sparse, and the views of the Himalayas start to open up.
Day 4: Trek to High Camp
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Highlights: Stunning panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail).
Day 5: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp and Return to High Camp
- Duration: 6–7 hours round trip
- Highlights: Reaching the base camp, taking in the incredible scenery, and arriving to the highest point of the trek.
Day 6: Trek to Siding Village
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Highlights: Descending through the forest, enjoying the peaceful village life.
Day 7: Trek to Lumle and Drive to Pokhara
- Duration: 3-hour trek, 2-hour drive
- Highlights: Wrapping up your trek and heading back to the comfort of Pokhara.
Highlights of the Mardi Himal Trek
Stunning Views: The trek offers breathtaking views of mountains like Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. One of my favorite moments was watching the sunrise over these peaks. The colors and the serenity of the morning were something I’ll never forget.
Diverse Landscapes: The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to rocky mountain terrain. As you ascend, you’ll notice how the scenery changes. I loved walking through the rhododendron forests — it felt like walking through a dream.
Less Crowded: The Mardi Himal Trek is less crowded than other major treks such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This makes for a more peaceful and intimate trekking experience. I remember having an entire viewpoint to myself one afternoon, which was incredibly refreshing.
My Personal Experience
On the Mardi Himal Trek, I was astounded at how quickly the terrain changed. I was walking through dense woods one moment, then surrounded by high peaks the next. Even though the trek was challenging at times, the spectacular views made every step worthwhile. Along the way, I met some incredible locals and fellow hikers who made the experience even more enjoyable.
Tips for a Stress-Free Trek
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials. A heavy backpack can make the trek more tiring than it needs to be.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay energized and avoid altitude sickness.
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush. Enjoy the journey and take breaks when needed.
- Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The weather in the mountains can change quickly. Layer your clothing to stay comfortable.
Final Thoughts
The Mardi Himal trek is a wonderful alternative for those looking for a short trek with stunning views and diverse terrain. It’s a modest hike that can easily fit into a week’s plan, making it ideal for individuals with short amount of time. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice, the Mardi Himal Trek provides an special adventure. If you’re anything like me, the Himalayas’ beauty will humble and inspire you.
Happy trekking!
