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7D 6N
Daily Tour
12 people
English, Espanol, Francais, Nepali
If you’re seeking a trail that remains off the beaten track, enveloped in pure Himalayan beauty, the Mardi Himal Trek is calling. In 7 days, this trek will take you through mystical rhododendron forests, across chattering mountain streams, into green valleys, and up to vast alpine meadows. Snow-capped giants such as Machhapuchare (the sacred “Fishtail” peak) and Annapurna South tower dramatically around you, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn.
In contrast to the more popular trekking trails, Mardi Himal Trek is a less busy, more intimate trail, where you can closely experience Nepal’s breathtaking natural beauty and warm mountain culture. You’ll enjoy that unique feeling of being truly off-the-beaten-track as you trek up to the pristine Mardi Himal Base Camp.
Starting from the lakeside city of Pokhara, which is bustling with activity, the trail winds its way through forests, climbs scenic ridges, and leads you to breathtaking high-altitude viewpoints. Along the way, you’ll have spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Himalchuli, and Mardi Himal itself.
No hardcore mountaineer status necessary for this trek! Average physical condition and a sense of adventure, and you’ll be more than fine. Sure, there are moments when the uphill climbs leave you breathless but the scenery makes up for that and then some. Trust us, sunrise and sunset from Mardi Himal High Camp are ones you’ll always remember.
What to Pack:
Essentials:
4-season sleeping bag and down jacket (supplied if needed)
Light daypack
Waterproof/windproof jacket
Warm fleece or down mid-layer
Hiking pants and thermal layers that are comfortable
Good quality trekking boots (broken-in!)
Accessories:
Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 35+), lip balm
Warm hat, gloves (shell and liner)
Neck warmer or buff
Headlamp with spare batteries
Trekking poles (very useful)
Personal Care:
First aid kit, personal meds (Diamox, ibuprofen, blister care)
Water purification tablets or filtration system
Toiletries (including quick-dry towel, toilet paper, wet wipes)
Extras:
Power bank, camera, extra memory cards
Energy bars or dry snacks
Copy of your passport and flight details
Good to Know:
Accommodation:
Comfortable 3-star hotels in Pokhara, teahouses in the mountains that are cozy. Amenities get increasingly basic as you go higher simple rooms, toilets shared but always warm and friendly.
Meals:
On the trail, robust Nepali cuisine (e.g. dal bhat, Tibetan bread, Sherpa stew) — and lots of potatoes, the local source of energy! Food menus get shorter as we go higher, but meals are wholesome and fresh.
Transport:
Private vehicle transfers in Kathmandu; tourist bus for Kathmandu-Pokhara transport; local jeeps for short drives to/from trailheads.
Fitness Requirements:
You do not have to be an athlete, but a decent fitness level is beneficial. Trek 5-7 hours a day. Altitude may be difficult, so pre-trek cardiovascular training is a big advantage!
In brief:
If you’re ready for real adventure, peaceful trails, and once-in-a-lifetime mountain views, Mardi Himal Trek is absolutely perfect. You’ll return with amazing memories and maybe a new love for Nepal’s wild beauty.
Difficulty Level of the Monsoon Mardi Himal Trek
Monsoon Magic: Adventure, Challenges, and Unexpected Beauty
Weather Woes (and Wonders)
June means Nepal’s monsoon and with it, a real change in the trek. Be ready for rain, fog, and frequent cloud cover on the Mardi Himal trek. The rain makes the views a green paradise but also makes things difficult: trails become slippery, muddy, and often amount to a natural obstacle course.
Good rain gears a good waterproof jacket, trousers, heavy boots, and trekking poles aren’t just convenient; they’re absolutely essential. Visibility can drop to zero as mist sweeps through the forest and valleys, so every step is like entering a fairytale. or sometimes a foggy maze. Adventure guaranteed.
Trail Tales: Fewer Crowds, More Wildness
One of the June trekking surprises? Solitude.
With fewer hikers traipsing along, the trail is almost intimate you, your partner (if you’re going as a couple), and the wild mountains. You’ll notice and hear birds, the sound of streams, and leaves trembling in the rain more often than you’ll hear the voices of humans.
But there’s a caveat: Because fewer people are passing through, the trails can be less easy to follow. Rain will wipe out clean paths, and landslides sometimes produce last-minute side trails. Having an experienced guide or at least a GPS hiking app is prudent getting lost in the fog is not going to be the good yarn you’ll want to tell afterwards!
Rain, Mud, and Careful Footsteps
You’re going to get wet. Possibly very wet.
June’s rains turn the hillside into slippery playgrounds. Some sections will be straightforward, others. otherwise. Going slowly, choosing your steps carefully, and using trekking poles to steady yourself becomes second nature within a couple of hours.
It’s not a hike that you rush but one that you feel through every slow, muddy step. And somehow, that makes reaching each milestone all the sweeter.
Meet the Locals: Leeches and Other Critters
The humidity also stirs Nepal’s most infamous monsoon residents: leeches. Tiny but persistent, they’re harmless but definitely unwelcome guests.
You’ll likely find them in the denser forest regions, waiting in ambush on damp vegetation and grass.
Pro tips:
Wear leech socks if you have them.
Dab your boots and legs with saltwater or repellent.
Check yourself often quick removal is best.
Honestly, it’s all part of the wild adventure, and after the first few encounters, you’ll be swapping leech-escape stories with a laugh.
Cloudy Views, Dreamy Landscapes
You might not get those iconic postcard shots of Machapuchare and Annapurna sparkling under clear blue skies. Instead, expect something softer the mountains will peek through shifting veils of mist, sometimes hidden, sometimes stunningly revealed for just a few seconds.
There’s romance to it: stormy clouds, moody skylines, and a profound, still silence broken only by the far-off roar of waterfalls.
It’s not what you’d think but it’s enchanting in its own way.
Last Thoughts: Is June the Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal?
If you love wild, green scenery, don’t mind a bit of mud and rain, and prefer a less crowded, more personal trekking experience, June can be really unforgettable.
Yes, it’s harder.
Yes, it’s wetter.
But it’s also more genuine, more uncooked and the glimpses you do get of the mountains will be like a private present, just for you.
Walking Mardi Himal in June isn’t about chasing after perfect views it’s about embracing whatever nature offers you, together.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Group discount | 2 | 5 | 10% |
Your love and adventure journey starts with a picturesque drive from busy Kathmandu to the peaceful haven of Pokhara. En route, enjoy the company of each other while driving through quaint villages, terraced fields, and river valleys. Upon your arrival at Pokhara, the stunning Phewa Lake and the distant silhouettes of the Annapurna range greet you. Get into a cozy lakeside hotel, then have a romantic lake-shore stroll perhaps watching the evening reflections on the lake over a shared coffee or cocktail.
(Optional: Have an optional 30-minute scenic flight upgrade if you want a swift and breathtaking start!)
After breakfast, a short drive brings you to Phedi, and your trekking adventure truly begins. The trek goes up through charming villages and rhododendron woods, which are a riot of color in spring. Along the way, you are treated to your first close-up views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks. Arrive at Pothana, a small mountain village that is perfect for a quiet evening together amidst starry skies.
The day's trek winds through thickets of moss and wisps of ancient trees swathed in fog. The peaceful path is reminiscent of a children's fairytale, as every turn lays out hidden bits of beauty. The path at times is rough and steep but every step transports you deeper into the pristine wild. Upon your arrival at Forest Camp, take time to relax and enjoy the peaceful stillness of the mountains the perfect time to share stories, laughter, and aspirations for the next years.
Today, you ascend higher, crossing the dense forest section and stepping into open alpine meadows. As you go higher, your horizon widens the majestic peaks of Machapuchare (the sacred Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli appear breathtakingly nearby. You'll walk up to High Camp together, where you'll be pampered by your very first unforgettable sunset that paints the mountains with soft pink and golden colors. It's a snuggle-up-by-warm-fire sort of night and tranquility in the Himalayas.
The crowning glory day! Wake up early for a fairy-tale sunrise hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail traverse ridges with stunning views in every direction — a moment of pure awe to share together. At the base camp, at 4,500 meters, surounded by humongous white summits, you will feel as if you are standing on the edge of the world. Having appreciated the grandeur, you'll return in a scenic path, walking along trails through alpine meadows and charming villages until reaching Siding Village — a beautiful and peaceful destination where you can enjoy your remarkable day.
After a peaceful morning spent in the village, you'll ride back to Pokhara in a warm vehicle. Back in town, you have some well-earned R&R. Maybe you treat yourself to a rejuvenating couples' massage, indulge in a lazy lakeside lunch, or just lounge under the sun beside Phewa Lake. The day is yours to pamper. Optional tours to Mahendra Cave or David's Fall can be arranged should you feel adventurous. In the evening, have a romantic lakeside dinner to commemorate your travels.
After breakfast, the moment arrives to say goodbye to Pokhara. You'll drive back to Kathmandu through valleys and hills again on the scenic road. Return to the capital city filled with irreplaceable memories, laughter, and the bonding that only an epic adventure such as this can create.
(Optional: In case you wish to save time, there is an option of a 30-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.)
The Mardi Himal Trek is moderate in difficulty. It’s suitable for trekkers with average fitness levels. Expect daily treks of 5-7 hours, with some uphill sections that might leave you breathless at higher altitudes. Proper preparation and acclimatization will make the trek more enjoyable.
The ideal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, and the views are clear. June to August brings the monsoon season, which can make the trail slippery and more challenging, but fewer crowds and a lush environment can still offer a rewarding experience.
While previous trekking experience is helpful, it’s not mandatory. If you’re in good physical condition and ready for some adventure, you’ll be fine. We recommend some pre-trek cardio training to boost stamina and ensure a smooth experience.
You’ll stay in comfortable teahouses and lodges during the trek. At lower altitudes, the facilities are better, with attached bathrooms in some areas. As you climb higher, the accommodations become more basic, with shared bathrooms and simpler rooms.
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided during the trek. Expect hearty, local dishes like dal bhat (lentils and rice), Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Fresh fruits are also served after dinner. Please note that meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included
A licensed guide and porter are included in the trek package. The guide will ensure your safety, help with navigation, and share insights into local culture. The porter will carry your main luggage, allowing you to trek with ease.
You’ll need a 4-season sleeping bag, warm layers, trekking boots, and waterproof gear. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a headlamp, trekking poles, and personal meds. We can provide additional gear such as sleeping bags and jackets upon request.
Altitude sickness is always a consideration when trekking above 3,000 meters. We take precautions by monitoring your oxygen levels with an oxygen meter and ensuring proper acclimatization. Drink plenty of water, rest if needed, and take it slow.
You’ll travel by tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approximately 6-7 hours). If you prefer, you can opt for a scenic 30-minute flight.
If you need to cancel or leave early due to illness or any other reason, we’ll assist you, but please note that unused services are non-refundable. You’ll be responsible for any additional expenses incurred.
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