Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

duration 10 days
from usd 615
difficulty Moderate
best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 14,764 feet at Mardi Himal Base Camp

trip overview

The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is a 10-day expedition to the base camp of a magnificent Himalayan peak standing at 18,330 feet above sea level. This trek is designed like a military expedition, moving strategically from one camp to another until reaching the target. The journey takes you through lush forests, across rivers, with possible encounters with Himalayan wildlife, all while providing breathtaking views of the Annapurna range.

This moderate-difficulty trek is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a shorter but exciting Himalayan experience. The trek offers unique perspectives of the mountains that many travelers report has transformed their outlook on life. Best experienced during autumn (September-December) or spring (March-May) when weather conditions provide optimal visibility.

Key Highlights:

Strategic Expedition: Experience a well-planned journey moving from camp to camp toward the impressive Mardi Himal Base Camp
Spectacular Mountain Views: Witness breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Macchapuchre, and Gandarva Chuli
Diverse Landscapes: Trek through dense forests, cross mountain streams, and traverse varied terrain
Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to spot Himalayan wildlife in their natural habitat
Cultural Immersion: Experience authentic Nepali mountain villages and interact with local communities
Efficient Adventure: Complete a significant Himalayan trek in just 10 days
Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in teahouses and guesthouses throughout the journey

Detailed itinerary

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

We will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (4,600 feet) and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from jet lag or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel on your own. In the evening, we’ll hold a pre-trip meeting in the hotel lobby where you’ll meet your guide, review the trek itinerary in detail, discuss gear requirements, and have the opportunity to ask any questions about the journey ahead 1.

Distance: Airport to hotel transfer | Time: 30 minutes

Points of Interest:
- Thamel District: Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub with numerous shops selling trekking gear, souvenirs, and local crafts
- Durbar Marg: Upscale shopping street near many hotels, featuring both international and local brands
- Garden of Dreams: A peaceful neoclassical garden offering a serene escape from Kathmandu’s busy streets
- Accommodation: Hotel
day 02
Drive to Pokhara (827m/2,713ft)

A tourist bus will take you to Pokhara, the famous tourist town on the bank of the Phewa Lake. We reach Pokhara in seven hours and have to pass green hills after hills to get there. Everyone going to or returning from Annapurna stays at Pokhara, so you will meet plenty of travellers like yourself here. The lakeside area offers an amazing nightlife to relax you ahead of your trekking trip.

Distance: 200km/124mi | Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Easy (road journey)

Points of Interest:
- Trishuli River: Scenic river views with opportunities to spot rafting expeditions along the way
- Phewa Lake: Pokhara’s centerpiece offering stunning reflections of the Annapurna range on clear days
- Lakeside Area: Vibrant tourist district with restaurants, shops, and beautiful lake views
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Drive to Kande and Trek to Pittam Deurali (2,100m/6,890ft)

We will begin the day with a short drive to Kande which is approximately 20 kilometers from Pokhara. The easiest way to get there is by bus or taxi, which will take about 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. You’ll start climbing up a stone paved road that leads through Australian Camp and Pothana. Pittam Deurali has been a village for over 30 years and grew in popularity as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek formed. Later, when Mardi Himal started, it became more popular as a lunch stop. The teahouses in the area are some of the most modern, with attached bathrooms being an added bonus 5.

Distance: 20km drive + 5km/3.1mi trek | Time: 1 hour drive + 3-4 hours trekking | Difficulty: Moderate

Points of Interest:
- Australian Camp: Popular viewpoint offering panoramic mountain views and a taste of trekking in Nepal
- Pothana Village: Charming settlement with traditional teahouses and local culture
- Dhampus Ridge: Beautiful vantage point with views of the Annapurna range and surrounding valleys
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
- Meal: Breakfastf
day 04
Trek to Low Camp (2,970m/9,744ft)

After breakfast, we start our trek to Low Camp. It is situated at an altitude of 2,970m and it takes 6 hours of trekking from Pittam Deurali. The trail takes us through dense rhododendron and oak forests, with occasional glimpses of the mountains through the trees. As we gain altitude, the vegetation changes and the views become more expansive. Low Camp offers our first real mountain views of the trek, with spectacular vistas of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) and the Annapurna range 6.

Distance: 8km/5mi | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Points of Interest:
- Rhododendron Forests: Beautiful forest trails especially colorful during spring blooming season
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see various bird species and possibly other Himalayan wildlife
- Mountain Viewpoints: First clear views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 05
Trek to High Camp (3,550m/11,646ft)

Today we trek from Low Camp to High Camp, gaining significant altitude as we climb above the treeline. The landscape transforms dramatically as we leave the forests behind and enter alpine terrain with stunning panoramic mountain views. The trail follows a ridgeline offering spectacular vistas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountain. High Camp is perfectly positioned for tomorrow’s early morning ascent to Mardi Himal Base Camp, and the sunset views from here are truly breathtaking.

Distance: 5km/3.1mi | Time: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Challenging

Points of Interest:
- Alpine Meadows: Beautiful high-altitude grasslands with seasonal wildflowers
- Panoramic Viewpoints: Unobstructed views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre
- Sunset Views: Spectacular evening light on the Himalayan peaks
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 06
Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,764ft) and back to Badal Danda (3,250m/10,663ft)

We start our day early at 4:00 am for the Mardi Himal Base Camp; the round trip duration will be about 4-5 hours of walking, taking you to and from the Mardi Himal Base Camp at an altitude of 4,500m. Before reaching the base camp, the Mardi Himal viewpoint at 4,200m offers breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Macchapuchre, and Gandarva Chuli, with base camp from here being 1:30 hours away. After some rest and celebration at the base camp, we descend via High Camp to Badal Danda. Stay overnight in Badal Danda 6.

Distance: 12km/7.5mi round trip | Time: 8-9 hours total | Difficulty: Very Challenging

Points of Interest:
- Mardi Himal Base Camp: The highest point of our trek with spectacular 360-degree mountain views
- Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m): Panoramic vista of the entire Annapurna range
- Glacier Views: Close-up views of the Mardi Himal glacier and surrounding ice fields
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 07
Trek to Pothana Village (1,950m/6,398ft)

We leave the Himalayas and walk all the way down to the lowlands. The farmlands between Badal Danda and Pothana with the Himalayas in the background make a beautiful trail. We have to walk down for six hours but the beauty of the landscape will heal your fatigue a little. At Pothana, we again opt for Guesthouse 7.

Distance: 10km/6.2mi | Time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Moderate (mostly downhill)

Points of Interest:
- Terraced Farmlands: Beautiful agricultural landscapes with mountain backdrops
- Local Villages: Opportunities to interact with local communities and experience rural Nepali life
- Forest Trails: Pleasant walking through mixed forests with diverse flora and fauna
- Accommodation: Hotel
day 08
Jeep drive to Pokhara (827m/2,713ft)

This is our last day of trekking. After some early morning excursion in Pothana we drive back to Pokhara and go see some tourist attractions before leaving. There are lakes, rivers and caves to see in Pokhara while there are also temples, pagodas and museums. The happening lakeside area in the city is the perfect place if you wish to go for an end-of-trek party and drink away your pain.

Distance: 25km/15.5mi | Time: 1.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy (road journey)

Points of Interest:
- Phewa Lake: Opportunity for boating or relaxing by the lakeside
- International Mountain Museum: Fascinating exhibits on mountaineering history and Himalayan cultures
- Devi’s Falls and Gupteshwor Cave: Natural attractions showcasing the unique geology of the region
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
day 09
Drive to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft) and Farewell Dinner

We will leave for Kathmandu in the morning passing through the same towns and villages that greeted us when we had first arrived more than a week ago. We can stroll around Thamel in the evening for shopping to officially end your trip. In the evening, we’ll gather for a special farewell dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine at an authentic local restaurant. You’ll enjoy a variety of dishes including dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and other local specialties while being entertained by cultural performances showcasing traditional Nepali music and dance.

Distance: 200km/124mi | Time: 7 hours | Difficulty: Easy (road journey)

Points of Interest:
- Thamel Shopping: Last chance for souvenir shopping in Kathmandu’s tourist district
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Ancient religious complex atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: Historic royal palace square with intricate woodcarvings and traditional architecture
- Traditional Nepali Farewell Dinner: Cultural experience with authentic cuisine and performances
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast & Farewell dinner
day 10

Final Departure

We’ll transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. It will be a bittersweet moment as you leave this wonderful country, but you’ll take with you rich memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Distance: Hotel to airport transfer (6-10km) | Time: 30 minutes drive

What's Included

Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
Guesthouse accommodation during the trek on twin-sharing basis
Tourist bus transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara
Private transportation between Pokhara and Kande
English speaking, trained and experienced trekking guide
Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
A duffel bag, a sun hat and a t-shirt as a souvenir
Medical kit (carried by your guide)
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu on the final evening
All government and local taxes

What's Not Included

international airfare to and from Kathmandu
Nepal visa fees
Excess baggage charges
All meals during the trek (teahouses offer various meal options for purchase)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except farewell dinner)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain due to any reason
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, shower, etc.)
Trekking equipment
Tips for guides and porters

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu and Pokhara:

3-star hotel accommodation included in package
Breakfast typically included at Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels
Upgrade options available to higher-class hotels
Single accommodation readily available in Kathmandu and Pokhara (additional charge)

During the Trek:

Standard teahouse/guesthouse accommodation on twin-sharing basis
Basic but comfortable facilities with hot meals available
Electricity, hot showers, and Wi-Fi available at most locations (may incur additional charges)

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek?
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is rated as moderate to challenging difficulty, suitable for people with good basic fitness and preferably some prior hiking experience. The main challenges include:
- Sustained uphill climbing, particularly from Low Camp to High Camp and Base Camp
- Early morning hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (starting at 4:00 am)
- Long daily hiking hours (up to 6-8 hours on challenging days)
- Maximum altitude of 4,500m/14,764ft at Mardi Himal Base Camp
- Significant altitude gain over a relatively short period
Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory. Any reasonably fit person who enjoys hiking and is prepared for the altitude should be able to complete this trek with proper preparation.
Why choose the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek over other treks?
- Less crowded route: Compared to popular treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp, Mardi Himal offers a more secluded experience
- Spectacular mountain views: Unobstructed panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Machhapuchhre, and Gandarva Chuli
- Diverse landscapes: Trek through dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude terrain
- Authentic cultural experience: Encounter traditional villages and local culture with fewer tourists
- Efficient adventure: Experience a significant Himalayan trek reaching 4,500m in just 10 days
- Value for money: Experience high-altitude Himalayan trekking at a lower cost than longer treks
How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?
You should be able to hike 6-8 hours daily while carrying a daypack (3-5kg), with some days involving significant elevation gain. Prepare with:
- Cardiovascular training: 3-4 times weekly for 2-3 months (hiking, jogging, swimming)
- Strength training: Focus on leg and core strength
- Practice hikes: Complete several 5-6 hour hikes with elevation gain before your trek
- Stair climbing: Excellent preparation for the steep ascents to High Camp and Base Camp
- Altitude preparation: If possible, spend time at higher elevations before the trek
Better fitness means a more enjoyable journey, especially for this trek which reaches significant altitude and includes challenging sections.
How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek reaches 4,500m/14,764ft, which is well above the threshold where altitude sickness can occur. To prevent issues:
- Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily)
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- Ascend slowly and follow your guide's pace
- Consider taking Diamox (consult your doctor before the trek)
- Our revised 10-day itinerary includes a night at High Camp for better acclimatization
- Inform your guide immediately if you experience headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath
- Never ignore symptoms of altitude sickness - descending is the best treatment if symptoms persist
The extra day we've added at High Camp (3,550m) helps significantly with acclimatization before attempting Base Camp.
What permits do I need and how are they arranged?
Two permits are required:
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
2. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Mountain Kick handles all permit arrangements as part of our service. You'll just need to provide:
- Your passport details
- Two passport-sized photos
- Your arrival date in Nepal
How long do I have to walk each day?
Daily walking times vary throughout the trek:
- Day 3 (Kande to Pittam Deurali): 3-4 hours
- Day 4 (Pittam Deurali to Low Camp): 6 hours (challenging day)
- Day 5 (Low Camp to High Camp): 4-5 hours (significant altitude gain)
- Day 6 (High Camp to Base Camp and back to Badal Danda): 8-9 hours (most challenging day)
- Day 7 (Badal Danda to Pothana): 6 hours
Walking times are estimates and may vary based on your pace, weather conditions, and group size. Your guide will ensure a comfortable pace with regular breaks for rest, hydration, and photography.
What type of accommodation is provided?
In Kathmandu and Pokhara:
- Three-star hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Breakfast included
- Private bathroom facilities
During the Trek:
- Guesthouse accommodation on a twin-sharing basis
- Simple but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets
- Shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses
- Common dining areas with heating
- Electricity, hot showers, and Wi-Fi available at most locations (may incur additional charges)
Accommodation quality varies by location, with better facilities at lower elevations. The teahouses at higher elevations (Low Camp, High Camp) are more basic than those in villages like Pothana.
What food options are available at teahouses?
Meals are not included during the trek, but teahouses offer various meal options for purchase:

Typical breakfast options:
- Porridge, muesli, or cornflakes
- Pancakes, Tibetan bread, or chapati
- Eggs prepared in various ways
- Tea, coffee, hot chocolate
Typical lunch and dinner options:
- Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)
- Momo (Tibetan dumplings)
- Noodle soups and pasta dishes
- Fried rice or noodles
- Soups and stews
Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended as meat storage can be unreliable at higher elevations, especially at Low Camp and High Camp.
How much should I budget for meals?
We recommend budgeting approximately $25-35 per day for meals. Prices increase with altitude, with meals at higher elevations costing up to twice as much as at lower elevations. A typical breakdown:
- Breakfast: $5-8
- Lunch: $8-12
- Dinner: $8-14
- Snacks and drinks: $3-6
High Camp and Low Camp, being remote locations, tend to have higher prices than lower elevation stops.
What happens in case of an emergency?
In case of a medical emergency:
1. Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid
2. For serious injuries, evacuation to the nearest medical facility will be arranged
3. If needed, helicopter evacuation will be arranged to Pokhara or Kathmandu
Helicopter Evacuation:
- Available from most points along the trek (weather permitting)
- Typically takes 1-3 hours to arrange
- Costs approximately $2,000-$3,500 USD (covered by proper travel insurance)
Mountain Kick maintains 24/7 emergency support and has established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals. Due to the remoteness of some sections of the Mardi Himal trek, comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory.
What medical facilities are available along the trek?
Medical facilities are limited along the Mardi Himal trek:
- Low Camp and High Camp: No medical facilities
- Pothana: Basic health post with limited supplies
- Pokhara: Full medical facilities with Western-standard hospitals
Your Mountain Kick guide carries a first aid kit for basic treatment. For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Pokhara or Kathmandu is necessary. This trek is more remote than Ghorepani Poon Hill, so being prepared with personal medications and basic first aid knowledge is important.
What essential gear do I need for this trek?
Key items include:
- Moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell (jacket and pants)
- Down jacket rated for cold temperatures (-5°C to -10°C)
- Warm hat, sun hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
- Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)
- Sleeping bag (rated -10°C to -5°C)
- Daypack (25-35L) for carrying daily essentials
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for the steep sections)
- Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for the pre-dawn Base Camp hike)
- Water bottles and purification method
- Sunglasses (100% UV protection) and sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Personal first aid kit and toiletries
Please check our full equipment list for a comprehensive packing guide. The Mardi Himal trek requires warmer gear than Ghorepani due to the higher altitude.
What is the best time to trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp?
The best times to trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp are:
- Spring (March to May): Beautiful rhododendron blooms, clear mornings with occasional afternoon clouds, temperatures at Base Camp ranging from -5°C to 10°C
- Autumn (September to November): Clearest skies and best mountain views, stable weather, temperatures at Base Camp ranging from -8°C to 5°C
- Winter (December to February): Coldest season but very clear skies, fewer trekkers, temperatures at Base Camp can drop to -15°C
- Summer/Monsoon (June to August): Not recommended due to rain, leeches, and obscured mountain views
Autumn is generally considered the ideal season for this trek due to stable weather and excellent visibility, but spring offers the added beauty of flowering rhododendron forests.
How does the Mardi Himal trek compare to other treks in the region?
Compared to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek:
- Higher altitude (4,500m vs 3,210m)
- More challenging terrain and longer trekking days
- Less crowded and more remote
- More dramatic close-up mountain views
- Fewer facilities and more basic teahouses
Compared to Annapurna Base Camp Trek:
- Shorter duration (10 days vs 12-14 days)
- Less crowded trail
- Similar maximum altitude
- Different perspective of the Annapurna range
- Fewer facilities along the route
Compared to Everest Base Camp Trek:
- - Much shorter duration (10 days vs 14-16 days)
  - Lower maximum altitude (4,500m vs 5,364m)
  - Less famous but equally spectacular mountain views
  - Significantly lower cost
  - Less crowded trail
What communication options are available during the trek?
- Mobile Coverage: Available in most villages but can be spotty and unreliable at High Camp and near Base Camp
- Wi-Fi: Available at most teahouses for a fee ($2-4 per day)
- Internet Speed: Generally slow, suitable for basic messaging but not video calls
- Local SIM Cards: NCell and Nepal Telecom SIM cards can be purchased in Kathmandu
- Signal Strength: Generally good at lower elevations but limited at High Camp
For emergency communication, your guide will have alternative methods to contact our office in Kathmandu. We recommend informing family and friends that you may be out of contact during portions of the trek, especially around High Camp and Base Camp.
What additional expenses should I budget for?
Daily Expenses on the Trail:
- Meals: $25-35 per day
- Hot showers: $2-5 per shower (prices increase with altitude)
- Wi-Fi: $2-4 per day
- Battery charging: $2-5 per device (higher at upper camps)
- Extra snacks and drinks: $2-8 per item
Other Expenses:
- - International airfare to/from Nepal
  - Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration)
  - Travel insurance with high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation coverage (mandatory)
  - Personal trekking gear
  - Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast and farewell dinner)
  - Tips for guides and porters (recommended 10-15% of trip cost)
Can I customize my Mardi Himal trek?
Mountain Kick offers flexible customization options for your trek:
- Private Departures: Choose your own start date
- Itinerary Modifications: Add or remove days, change pace, or include side trips
- Extensions: Add experiences like Chitwan National Park or activities like paragliding in Pokhara
- Accommodation Upgrades: Request higher standard lodges where available
- Special Interests: Focus on photography, culture, or wildlife
- Combine Treks: Add Poon Hill or other nearby destinations to your itinerary
Simply contact us with your preferences, and we'll create a customized itinerary that meets your needs. We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary.
What if I'm a solo traveler?
Solo travelers are welcome on the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek:
- Join one of our scheduled group departures to share costs and meet other trekkers
- Option for private solo trek with guide and porter (higher cost)
- Single room supplements available in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- During the trek, single rooms may be available at lower elevations but are limited at High Camp
- Solo trekkers often find the social aspect of teahouses enjoyable, with opportunities to meet other trekkers
Mountain Kick ensures solo travelers receive the same attention and service as groups, with safety being our primary concern.
How much cash should I carry during the trek?
We recommend carrying enough Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is extremely limited:
- ATMs are only available in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Exchange currency in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek
- Carry small denominations as change can be limited in remote areas
- Keep your money secure in a money belt or hidden pouch
- Budget approximately NPR 3,000-4,000 ($25-35) per day for meals and extras
- Add extra for optional expenses like hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging
The Mardi Himal trek is more remote than some other treks, so having adequate cash is essential as credit cards are not accepted at teahouses along the route.

Essential Trip Information

Medical consultation is strongly recommended before your Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. Consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, especially altitude sickness medication like Diamox. The Mardi Himal Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,500m/14,764ft, which is well above the threshold where altitude sickness can occur, so proper medical advice is crucial.

Vaccinations recommended before coming to Nepal include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza. Consult your healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized vaccination advice.

Travel insurance is mandatory and must be obtained before arriving in Nepal. Your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 4,500m) and helicopter evacuation. Standard travel insurance often excludes activities above 3,000m, so verify your policy covers the full altitude of this trek. Due to the remoteness of the Mardi Himal route, comprehensive coverage is essential.

Spare days are essential – plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard itinerary to avoid missing international flights due to unpredictable Himalayan weather or altitude acclimatization issues. Schedule your international departure at least 2-3 days after your planned trek completion. This buffer is particularly important for the Mardi Himal trek due to its higher altitude and more remote nature.

Day activities: Various excursions are available in Pokhara before or after your trek, including paragliding over Phewa Lake, boating, visiting the International Mountain Museum, exploring Devi’s Falls and Gupteshwor Cave, or relaxing at the lakeside area. Mountain Kick can arrange these activities upon request, which provide excellent opportunities to relax after your challenging trek.

Group discounts: Special rates are available for groups booking together, with larger groups qualifying for greater savings. Contact us for specific pricing based on your party size.

Packing Checklist

These items are considered absolutely critical by our Mountain Kick guides. Based on our extensive experience in the Himalayas, we strongly recommend prioritizing these items for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, which reaches higher altitudes (up to 4,500m) and experiences colder temperatures than the Ghorepani trek:

Layered clothing system – Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to changing conditions and higher altitude temperatures
Insulated down jacket – Essential for the cold temperatures at High Camp and Base Camp
Comfortable hiking boots – Well broken-in with ankle support and water resistance
Daypack – For carrying daily essentials while trekking
Water bottles/hydration system – For maintaining proper hydration at altitude
Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for the pre-dawn Base Camp hike
Trekking poles – To provide stability and reduce stress on knees, especially on the steep sections
Sleeping bag – Rated for at least -10°C to -5°C due to colder temperatures at higher camps

Clothing Layers

Base Layers

Lightweight thermal tops (2-3) – For insulation and moisture management
Lightweight thermal bottoms (2) – Base layer insulation for legs, essential for higher altitudes
Synthetic/merino wool underwear (4-5 pairs) – Moisture-wicking for comfort
Sports bras (2-3, for women) – For comfort and moisture management

Mid Layers

Trekking shirts (3) – Quick-drying, breathable fabrics; mix of short and long sleeve
Fleece jacket or pullover – Mid-layer insulation
Lightweight insulated jacket – Additional warmth for High Camp and Base Camp
Trekking pants (2-3 pairs) – Durable, comfortable pants for daily trekking
Hiking shorts (1 pair, optional) – For warmer conditions at lower elevations

Outer Layers

Waterproof/windproof jacket – Essential protection against precipitation and wind
Waterproof pants – Outer layer protection against rain and snow
Down jacket/insulated parka – For warmth during the early morning Base Camp hike and cold evenings at higher altitudes

Headwear

Sun hat/baseball cap – For sun protection
Warm beanie/wool hat – To keep your head warm during cold mornings and evenings
Buff/neck gaiter – For neck and face protection in cold conditions
Balaclava – Additional face protection for high altitude cold
Sunglasses with 100% UV protection – Critical for protection against intense sun rays and snow glare

Handwear

Lightweight gloves (wool or fleece) – For hand warmth during trekking
Waterproof/insulated gloves – For protection in cold, wet conditions at higher altitudes

Footwear

Water-resistant hiking boots – Well broken-in with ankle support
Camp shoes/sandals/lightweight trainers – For relaxing after trekking days
Hiking socks (4-5 pairs) – Breathable, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool
Thermal/heavyweight socks (2 pairs) – For colder conditions at High Camp and Base Camp
Gaiters (optional) – For protection against mud, debris, and snow

Bags and Packs

Duffel bag (60-70L, if using porters) – Water-resistant, durable, and lockable
Daypack (25-35L) – For carrying daily essentials while trekking
Pack rain cover – To protect your pack from precipitation
Stuff sacks/dry bags – For organizing and waterproofing items

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping bag (rated for at least -10°C to -5°C) – For warmth during cold nights at higher altitudes
Sleeping bag liner – Adds warmth and cleanliness, especially if renting a sleeping bag
Inflatable pillow (optional) – For better sleep comfort

Trekking Equipment

Trekking poles – Provide stability, reduce stress on knees, especially helpful for the steep sections
Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for the pre-dawn Base Camp hike
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration reservoir (2-3L) – For staying hydrated
Water purification – Tablets, drops, or SteriPEN
Crampons/microspikes (seasonal) – For icy conditions during winter/early spring treks
Emergency whistle – For safety

Personal Items

Quick-dry towel – Lightweight and compact
Toiletry kit – Including biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) – For UV protection at high altitudes
Lip balm with SPF – Protection against chapped lips in cold, dry weather
Hand sanitizer – For hygiene on the trail
Toilet paper – Not always available in teahouses
Wet wipes/biodegradable wipes – For cleaning when showers aren’t available
Ear plugs – For better sleep in shared accommodations
Cash in Nepalese Rupees for all meals (approximately $25-35 per day)
Small padlock – For securing your belongings
Menstrual products (if applicable) – Limited availability on the trail

First Aid and Medications

Personal first aid kit – Basic supplies for minor injuries
Pain relievers – Ibuprofen, paracetamol for headaches
Anti-diarrheal medication – Imodium or Pepto-Bismol
Blister treatment – Moleskin, bandages, tape
Throat lozenges – For the dry air
Electrolyte tablets/powder – For hydration and preventing cramps
Motion sickness medication if you’re prone to car sickness (for the bus journeys)
Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) – Consult your doctor before the trek
Personal medications – Bring enough for the entire trip plus extra
Antibiotic ointment – For minor cuts and scrapes
Insect repellent – For lower elevations

Note: Please consult your doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, especially altitude sickness medication

Electronics

Camera with spare batteries and memory cards – Temperatures can drain batteries faster
Phone in waterproof case – For communication and photos
Portable power bank – For recharging devices (larger capacity recommended for longer periods without electricity)
Adapters – For charging in Nepal (Type C, D, and M plugs)
Watch with alarm – For keeping track of time, especially for the early morning Base Camp hike
GPS device or navigation app (optional) – For tracking your route

Optional Items

Trekking snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, chocolate
Pocket knife or multi-tool – For various uses
Binoculars – For wildlife and mountain viewing
Neck pillow for the bus journey
Books or entertainment – For downtime
Journal and pen – For documenting your journey
Playing cards – For entertainment in teahouses
Cash in small denominations – For purchases, tips, and emergencies
Passport photos – For permits and visas
TIMS card and ACAP permit – Required documents for the trek
Hand/foot warmers – For extra warmth during cold mornings
Trekking umbrella – For sun protection or light precipitation

General Packing Tips for Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek:

Layer your clothing – This allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day, which can vary dramatically at different altitudes
Break in your boots – Wear your hiking boots before the trek to prevent blisters
Pack light – Porters will carry your main duffel bag, but there is typically a weight limit of 15kg
Prioritize quality – Invest in good quality gear for critical items like boots, jacket, and sleeping bag, especially given the higher altitude of this trek
Consider rentals – Many items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you don’t want to invest in gear you may not use again
Prepare for altitude – The Mardi Himal trek reaches 4,500m, so proper gear for cold temperatures is essential
Seasonal considerations – If trekking in winter (Dec-Feb), bring extra warm layers; during monsoon (Jun-Aug), ensure excellent waterproofing

Special Note for Base Camp Hike: Remember that you’ll be hiking to Mardi Himal Base Camp in the early morning. This requires warm clothing layers, insulated gloves, a hat, and a reliable headlamp with fresh batteries. Temperatures can be quite cold at higher elevations, especially before sunrise, so prepare accordingly with proper insulation.

Remember that this equipment list is comprehensive, and you may need to adjust based on the season of your trek, personal preferences, and specific trek itinerary. At Mountain Kick, we provide a detailed briefing before departure and can help you finalize your packing list based on current conditions.

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Travellers	PRICING FROM (USD)
1	945
2-3	615
4-9	520

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.