Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
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duration 10 days
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from usd 615
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difficulty Moderate
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best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
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max altitude 4,500m / 14,764ft (Mardi Himal Base Camp)
trip overview
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is Nepal’s fastest-rising alternative to the crowded classic Annapurna routes. In just 10 days, you’ll ascend an exposed alpine ridgeline with unobstructed close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail, 6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, and Gandarva Chuli. While other trekkers queue at more famous routes, you’ll walk through dense rhododendron forest, past traditional Gurung villages, and above the treeline into high-altitude meadows with just a handful of others on the trail.
The route finishes with a dramatic pre-dawn summit push to base camp at 4,500m. Fewer teahouses, fewer trekkers, more raw Himalayan scenery. MountainKick’s guided Mardi Himal trek starts from $615 per person for groups of 2-3, including all permits, a professional local guide, porter support, and teahouse accommodation. At moderate-to-challenging difficulty, it suits fit hikers and first-time trekkers who want serious altitude and dramatic perspectives without the 14-day commitment of longer expeditions.
Key Highlights:
- Dramatic ridgeline walk with unobstructed panoramic mountain views throughout the trek
- Ascend to 4,500m at Mardi Himal Base Camp with a pre-dawn summit attempt offering spectacular 360-degree vistas
- Trek through diverse landscapes including dense rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and high-altitude alpine meadows
- Opportunity to spot Himalayan wildlife in pristine natural habitat
- Authentic cultural immersion with Gurung mountain communities
- Complete a significant high-altitude Himalayan experience in just 10 days
- Comfortable teahouse and guesthouse accommodation throughout with modern amenities at lower elevations
Who Is This Trek For?
- First-time trekkers who want more altitude and challenge than Ghorepani Poon Hill but lack the time or budget for longer expeditions
- Time-limited travelers who have only 10-14 days in Nepal
- Repeat visitors who’ve completed other Annapurna routes and want a fresh perspective without familiar trails
- Photography enthusiasts seeking some of Nepal’s most dramatic compositions from elevated ridgelines
- Budget-conscious trekkers—at $615 for 2-3 people, this is one of Nepal’s best-value high-altitude treks
- Hikers who prefer solitude and fewer crowds
- Anyone seeking genuine mountain wilderness combined with reliable local hospitality
Detailed itinerary
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day 01Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)
Airport transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Rest and recover from jet lag or explore Kathmandu’s vibrant streets independently. Evening pre-trip meeting with your guide in the hotel lobby to review the full itinerary, discuss gear, and ask questions.
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
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day 02Drive to Pokhara (827m/2,713ft)
Seven-hour tourist bus journey through Nepal’s green hills to Pokhara, the famous lakeside town on the Phewa Lake. Arrive mid-afternoon and explore the vibrant lakeside area with restaurants, shops, and stunning Annapurna reflections.
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
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day 03Drive to Kande and Trek to Pittam Deurali (2,100m/6,890ft)
Short 20km drive from Pokhara to Kande (45 minutes to 1 hour), then begin trekking via Australian Camp and Pothana village. Pittam Deurali is a modern teahouse settlement that grew popular as a lunch stop on the Mardi Himal route. Climb stone-paved roads through villages with
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: Breakfast
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day 04Trek 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
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day 05Trek 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
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day 06Trek 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
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day 07Trek 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
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day 08Jeep 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
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day 09Drive 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
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day 10Final 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 included
- Guesthouse accommodation during the trek on twin-sharing basis
- Tourist bus transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Private vehicle transportation between Pokhara and Kande
- English-speaking, trained, and experienced trekking guide
- Porter service (one porter for every 2 trekkers)
- Staff costs including guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
- All necessary permits including Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
- Duffel bag, sun hat, and MountainKick t-shirt as souvenirs
- Medical kit carried by your guide throughout the trek
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu featuring traditional Nepali cuisine on the final evening
- All government and local taxes included in the package price
What's Not Included
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fees (15-day visa: $30, 30-day visa: $50, 90-day visa: $125)
- Excess baggage charges on flights
- All meals during the trek—teahouses offer various options for purchase
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara except for the farewell dinner
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or unexpected return from the mountains
- Travel and rescue insurance—mandatory coverage must include high-altitude trekking to 4,500m and helicopter evacuation
- Personal expenses including phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, hot showers
- Trekking equipment—bring your own or purchase/rent in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended 10-15% of trip cost)
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
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How difficult is the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek?The Mardi Himal trek is rated moderate to challenging, suited for people with good basic fitness and preferably some prior hiking experience. Main challenges include sustained uphill climbing from Low Camp to High Camp and on to Base Camp, an early morning hike starting at 4:00 AM, daily trekking of 6-8 hours on challenging days, maximum altitude of 4,500m (14,764ft), and significant altitude gain over a short period. Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory. Any reasonably fit person who enjoys hiking and is prepared for altitude should successfully complete this trek with proper physical preparation.
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How does Mardi Himal compare to Annapurna Base Camp?Both treks reach similar altitudes (Mardi at 4,500m vs. ABC at 4,130m) in the same Annapurna mountain range, but offer completely different experiences. Annapurna Base Camp is the classic established teahouse trek with well-marked trails, abundant teahouses, many trekkers, and a destination surrounded by peaks in the Annapurna Sanctuary. Mardi Himal follows a ridgeline with exposed panoramic views throughout the entire route. Mardi is shorter (10 days vs. 12-14 days for ABC), significantly less crowded, and more affordable ($615 vs. $820). Choose ABC if you want the famous Annapurna Sanctuary experience. Choose Mardi if you want dramatic ridgeline scenery and solitude. See the Annapurna Base Camp Trek page for detailed comparisons.
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Is 10 days enough for Mardi Himal Base Camp?Yes, 10 days is the standard optimal duration and includes Kathmandu arrival/departure, Pokhara transfer days, and 5 actual trekking days. The key to doing this safely is the night at High Camp (3,550m) for acclimatization before the pre-dawn push to base camp at 4,500m. If you're concerned about altitude or prefer a more relaxed pace, we can add an extra acclimatization day at High Camp or schedule additional rest days. Contact us for customized 11-day or 12-day itineraries suited to your fitness level and altitude experience.
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Why choose Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek over other Nepal treks?Mardi Himal offers less crowding compared to popular routes, giving you a more secluded Himalayan experience. You'll enjoy unobstructed panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, Machapuchare, and Gandarva Chuli from an elevated ridgeline. Diverse landscapes include dense rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude terrain rarely seen by most trekkers. Authentic cultural experiences happen in traditional Gurung villages before masses of tourists arrive. You accomplish a significant high-altitude trek reaching 4,500m in just 10 days, ideal for time-limited travelers. Value for money is exceptional.
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How physically fit do I need to be and how should I prepare?You should be able to hike 6-8 hours daily carrying a lightweight daypack (3-5kg), with some days involving significant elevation gain. Prepare with cardiovascular training 3-4 times weekly for 2-3 months before your trek, hiking, jogging, swimming, or cycling are all suitable. Add leg and core strength training once weekly. Complete several practice hikes of 5-6 hours with elevation gain before your trek. Stair climbing with a heavy pack is excellent specific preparation for mountain hiking. Better fitness means a more enjoyable journey, especially important for this trek's significant altitude and challenging sections. Start training at least 8-12 weeks before your scheduled trek date.
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How do I prevent and manage altitude sickness?Mardi Himal Base Camp reaches 4,500m (14,764ft), well above where acute mountain sickness commonly occurs. Prevent AMS by staying hydrated—drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, which worsen altitude sickness. Ascend slowly and follow your guide's pace without pushing harder. Consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) if your doctor recommends it. Our itinerary includes a night at High Camp specifically for acclimatization. Inform your guide immediately if you experience headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Never ignore altitude sickness symptoms; descending is the best treatment. Read our comprehensive altitude sickness guide for more information.
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What permits do I need and how are they arranged?Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) protecting the fragile ecosystem, and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card for government safety registration. MountainKick handles all permit arrangements included in your package price. You only need to provide your passport details, two passport-sized photos, and your arrival date in Nepal. No additional action or expense is required from you. Permits are processed efficiently and you'll receive copies before departure.
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How long do I have to walk each day?Daily walking times vary throughout the trek. Day 3 (Kande to Pittam Deurali) is 3-4 hours and an easy introduction. Day 4 (Pittam Deurali to Low Camp) is a challenging 6-hour day gaining significant altitude. Day 5 (Low Camp to High Camp) takes 4-5 hours with substantial altitude gain. Day 6 (High Camp to Base Camp and back to Badal Danda) is the most challenging at 8-9 hours total with a pre-dawn 4:00 AM start. Day 7 (Badal Danda to Pothana) is 6 hours but mostly downhill. Walking times are estimates and vary based on your pace, weather conditions, and group size. Your guide ensures a comfortable pace with regular breaks for rest, hydration, and photography.
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What type of accommodation is provided?In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you'll stay in 3-star hotels on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast included and private bathroom facilities. Upgrade options to higher-class hotels are readily available. Single room accommodation in cities is available for an additional charge. During the trek, you'll stay in simple but clean guesthouses on a twin-sharing basis with beds, pillows, and blankets. Basic facilities include shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses and common dining areas with heating. Electricity, hot showers, and Wi-Fi are available at most locations for an additional fee. Accommodation quality varies by location; facilities are better at lower elevations than at High Camp and Low Camp.
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What food options are available at teahouses?Meals are not included during trekking days—teahouses offer various options for purchase. Typical breakfast includes porridge, muesli, cornflakes, pancakes, Tibetan bread, chapati, eggs prepared various ways, and tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Lunch and dinner options feature dal bhat (Nepali rice and lentil staple), momos (Tibetan dumplings), noodle soups, pasta dishes, fried rice, and vegetable soups. Vegetarian options are widely available and recommended at higher elevations where meat storage is unreliable. Teahouse staff are experienced with trekkers and accommodate most dietary preferences.
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How much should I budget for meals?Budget approximately $30-$40 per day for meals. Prices increase significantly with altitude; meals at High Camp and Low Camp cost up to twice as much as lower elevations. Typical daily breakdown: breakfast $5-$8, lunch $8-$12, dinner $8-$14, snacks and drinks $3-$6. High Camp and Low Camp, being remote locations, have higher supply costs. Carry extra cash in small denominations for meal purchases, as prices must be negotiated at each teahouse. Budget flexibility is wise since menu options and prices vary by location.
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What happens in case of an emergency?Your guide will assess the situation and provide first aid from the medical kit carried throughout your trek. For serious injuries, evacuation to the nearest medical facility is arranged. Helicopter evacuation is available from most trek points (weather permitting) and typically takes 1-3 hours to arrange. Helicopter evacuation costs approximately $2,000-$3,500 USD and is covered by proper travel insurance. MountainKick maintains 24/7 emergency support and established protocols with helicopter companies and hospitals throughout Nepal. Due to the remoteness of sections of the Mardi Himal trek, comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory.
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What medical facilities are available along the trek?
Medical facilities are extremely limited along the Mardi Himal route. Low Camp and High Camp have no medical facilities. Pothana has a basic health post with limited supplies. The nearest full-service hospital is in Pokhara. Your guide carries a first aid kit for treating minor issues. Serious medical emergencies require evacuation to Pokhara or Kathmandu. This trek is more remote than some other routes, so being prepared with personal medications, basic first aid knowledge, and comprehensive travel insurance is critical.
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What essential gear do I need for this trek?
Key items include moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers for temperature management. You'll need waterproof and windproof jacket and pants for weather protection. A down jacket rated for cold temperatures (-5°C to -10°C) is essential for High Camp and Base Camp. Bring a warm beanie, sun hat, gloves, and neck gaiter. Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in) are critical—practice hikes should be in the boots you'll trek in. Sleeping bag rated -10°C to -5°C is necessary. Pack a 25-35L daypack for daily essentials, trekking poles for steep sections, and a headlamp with extra batteries for the pre-dawn Base Camp hike. Bring water bottles and a purification method, sunglasses with 100% UV protection, sunscreen SPF 50+, and a personal first aid kit. Mardi Himal requires warmer gear than lower-altitude treks due to higher altitude.
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What is the best time to trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp?
Best trekking times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings beautiful rhododendron forest blooms, clear mornings with occasional afternoon clouds, and base camp temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C. Autumn offers the clearest skies and best mountain visibility with stable weather and base camp temperatures from -8°C to 5°C. Winter (December to February) is the coldest season with temperatures dropping to -15°C at base camp, but visibility is exceptional and trekkers are rare. Monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, leeches at lower elevations, and cloud-obscured views. Autumn is generally ideal due to stable weather and excellent visibility.
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How does the Mardi Himal trek compare to other treks in the region?
Compared to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Mardi Himal reaches higher altitude (4,500m vs. 3,210m), involves more challenging terrain and longer trekking days, is less crowded and more remote, features more dramatic close-up mountain views, and has fewer facilities with more basic teahouses. Compared to Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi is shorter (10 days vs. 12-14 days), significantly less crowded, reaches similar altitude, and offers different perspectives of the Annapurna range. For comprehensive comparisons, see our Nepal trekking guide.
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What communication options are available during the trek?
Mobile coverage is available in most villages but spotty and unreliable at High Camp and near Base Camp. Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses for a daily fee of $2-$4. Internet speed is generally slow, suitable for basic messaging but not video calls. Local SIM cards from NCell and Nepal Telecom can be purchased in Kathmandu before your trek. Signal strength is generally good at lower elevations but limited at High Camp. For emergency communication, your guide has alternative methods to contact MountainKick's Kathmandu office. Inform family and friends that you may be out of contact during portions of the trek.
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What additional expenses should I budget for?
Daily expenses on the trail include meals $30-$40 per day, hot showers $2-$5 (higher at upper camps), Wi-Fi $2-$4 daily, battery charging $2-$5 per device, and extra snacks and drinks $2-$8 per item. Other expenses include international airfare to/from Nepal (not included), Nepal visa fees ($30-$125 depending on duration), travel insurance with high-altitude and helicopter evacuation coverage (mandatory), personal trekking gear, meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara outside of included breakfast and farewell dinner, and tips for guides and porters (recommended 10-15% of trip cost). Budget extra for optional activities in Pokhara like paragliding or boating before or after your trek.
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Can I customize my Mardi Himal trek?
MountainKick offers flexible customization options. You can choose private departure dates, modify the itinerary by adding or removing days, change pace, or include side trips. Extensions are available like adding activities in Pokhara or combining Mardi with nearby treks like Poon Hill. Accommodation upgrades to higher-standard lodges are available where feasible. You can focus on photography, culture, wildlife, or combine Mardi with other experiences. Simply contact us with your preferences and we'll create a customized itinerary matching your needs. We never force customers to follow the standard itinerary.
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What if I'm a solo traveler?
Solo travelers are welcome. You can join one of our scheduled group departures to share costs and meet other trekkers. Alternatively, arrange a private solo trek with dedicated guide and porter at higher cost. Single room supplements are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Single rooms may be available at lower elevations along the trek but are limited at High Camp. Solo trekkers often find teahouse environments social, with opportunities to meet other trekkers. MountainKick ensures solo travelers receive the same attention and service as groups, with safety as our primary concern.
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How much cash should I carry during the trek?
Carry sufficient Nepalese Rupees for the entire trek as ATM access is extremely limited. ATMs only exist in Kathmandu and Pokhara, so exchange currency there before starting your trek. Carry small denominations as change is limited in remote areas. Keep money secure in a money belt or hidden pouch. Budget approximately ($30-$40) per day for meals and extra expenses like hot showers, Wi-Fi, and battery charging. Add extra for optional expenses and porter tips. Credit cards are not accepted at teahouses. The Mardi Himal trek is more remote than some other treks, making adequate cash essential.
Essential Trip Information
Permits and Paperwork: Two permits are required for the Mardi Himal trek. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) protects the fragile ecosystem you’ll trek through. The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is a safety registration with the Nepal government. MountainKick handles all paperwork and permit arrangements as part of the package. You’ll need to provide your passport details, two passport-sized photos, and your arrival date in Nepal. No additional action is required from you beyond providing this basic information.
Altitude and Acclimatization: Mardi Himal Base Camp sits at 4,500m (14,764ft), placing it well above the altitude threshold where acute mountain sickness commonly occurs. Our itinerary includes a night at High Camp (3,550m) specifically for acclimatization before the final push to base camp. Starting from 1,400m in Kathmandu and ascending gradually over 5 days allows your body to adjust. The pre-dawn summit attempt on Day 6 means you’ll spend most of the day at very high altitude. Most trekkers reach base camp successfully. For detailed prevention strategies, see our altitude sickness guide.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking to 4,500m and helicopter evacuation is mandatory before you arrive in Nepal. Standard travel insurance often excludes activities above 3,000m, so verify your policy covers the full altitude of this trek. Helicopter evacuation from Mardi Himal typically costs $2,000-$3,500 USD. MountainKick maintains 24/7 emergency protocols with established helicopter services and hospitals. Weather and remote terrain mean evacuation is sometimes necessary; insurance protects you from financial hardship. Purchase insurance in your home country before travel.
Cash and Money: There are no reliable ATMs along the Mardi Himal trek beyond Pokhara. Withdraw sufficient cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting your trek. Budget approximately $30-$40 per day for meals at teahouses (prices increase with altitude at High Camp and Base Camp). Carry small denominations as change can be limited in remote villages. Keep your money in a secure money belt or hidden pouch. Credit cards are not accepted at teahouses. Budget extra cash for optional expenses like hot showers ($2-$5), Wi-Fi ($2-$4 daily), battery charging ($2-$5), and porter tips.
Meals and Food: Meals are not included during the trekking days—you’ll purchase from teahouses along the route. Typical options include dal bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetables), momos (Tibetan dumplings), noodle soups, pasta dishes, fried rice, eggs, pancakes, and various breads. Vegetarian options are strongly recommended at higher elevations where meat storage is unreliable. Breakfast typically costs $5-$8, lunch $8-$12, and dinner $8-$14 depending on altitude. Total meal budget is $30-$40 daily. Porters and guides assist with securing meals, and teahouse staff are accustomed to trekkers with dietary restrictions.
Seasons and Weather: The best trekking seasons are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). Autumn offers clearest skies and best mountain visibility, with temperatures at base camp ranging from -8°C to 5°C. Spring brings beautiful rhododendron forest blooms and temperatures from -5°C to 10°C at base camp, though occasional afternoon clouds can obscure views. Winter (December to February) is the coldest season with temperatures dropping to -15°C at base camp, but skies are extremely clear and trekkers are few. Monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, leeches at lower elevations, and mountain views obscured by clouds.
Physical Fitness Requirements: You should be able to comfortably hike 6-8 hours daily while carrying a light daypack (3-5kg), with some days involving sustained uphill climbing and significant altitude gain. The toughest day is Day 6 when you start before dawn and trek 8-9 hours to base camp and back. Prepare by doing cardiovascular training 3-4 times weekly for 2-3 months before your trek—hiking, jogging, swimming, or cycling are all suitable. Add leg and core strength training once weekly. Complete several practice hikes of 5-6 hours with elevation gain in the months before departure. Stair climbing with a heavy pack is excellent specific preparation. Better fitness significantly improves your enjoyment at high altitude and reduces altitude sickness risk.
Medical and Vaccination Advice: Medical consultation before your trek is strongly recommended. Discuss any medications you plan to bring, particularly altitude sickness medication like Diamox (acetazolamide), which some doctors prescribe preventatively. 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 advice based on your medical history and current vaccinations. Medical facilities are extremely limited along the Mardi Himal trail; the nearest hospital is in Pokhara. Carry personal medications in their original containers, bring extra supplies, and inform your guide of any medical conditions or allergies.
Visa Information: Nepal tourist visas are issued on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or obtained in advance at Nepali embassies. Tourist visas are available for 15 days ($30), 30 days ($50), or 90 days ($125), all in USD. Visas are easily extended in Kathmandu if needed. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Nepal. Most nationalities receive tourist visas without difficulty.
Spare Days: Plan 2-3 additional days beyond the standard 10-day itinerary as a buffer for unpredictable Himalayan weather or acclimatization issues. Schedule your international flight departure at least 2-3 days after your planned trek completion. Mountain weather can cause unexpected closures or require extra rest days. Better to have unused buffer days than to rush from the mountains and miss your flight.
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
We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.
| Travellers | PRICING FROM (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 945 |
| 2-3 | 615 |
| 4-9 | 520 |
We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.
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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.
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