4-day Mardi Himal Trek

You will stay in comfortable teahouses hidden away in the mountains on your four-day Mardi Himal trip. There are warm wooden cabins, plush blankets, and a welcoming dining area where hikers meet to exchange stories over a roaring fire. You can also take hot baths, charge stations, and even spot Wi-Fi at Forest Camp and Low Camp, which are lower down and ideal for relaxing after a hard day.

The amenities grow more basic as you ascend higher toward High Camp and the viewpoint: solar-powered lighting, shared squat toilets, and limited hot water. However, you get to experience real mountain life, including the opportunity to interact with local families, enjoy filling dal bhat, and get up early to witness breathtaking sunrises without crowds. Every evening is a memorable pause in an amazing journey because of its straightforward comfort with the soul.

The food provided in the teahouses is warm, filling, and intended to keep you going during your hike. After starting your day with porridge, eggs, pancakes, or Tibetan bread, you’ll eat hot lunches like pasta, noodles, soup, or vegetable soups, dal bhat (unlimited rice or lentils), and perhaps pizza or momos. Although alternatives may be limited at higher camps, vegetarian and even vegan meals are frequently available. Just state your preference early.

Keeping your body hydrated is the most essential part of your trek. You should at least drink 3–4 liters of drinking water each day in the drier alpine air. You can treat stream or tap water yourself with purification tablets and refill bottles at teahouses. Many teahouses boil or filter water for a small fee (about $1–2 per pot). It is economical, environmentally beneficial, and helps prevent plastic waste by carrying a reusable bottle and purifying your water.

For individuals or small groups, the short trek to Mardi Himal is ideal. The majority travel in groups of two to eight, which permits a more leisurely pace and facilitates the search for lodging along the way. With smaller groups, you can have a more tranquil trekking experience free from crowds and receive more individualized attention from your guides.

If you’re trekking alone, it’s still safe and enjoyable, but joining a group or hiring a local guide can make your journey smoother, help with navigation, and add a friendly companion to share the adventure. Whether with friends or new hiking buddies, the Mardi Himal trail offers a great mix of solitude and social time.

Anyone with an acceptable level of fitness and an adventurous spirit would find the four-day Mardi-Himal trip to be a reasonably difficult adventure. At Base Camp, you will walk for five to seven hours every day through forests, over ridges, and up to roughly 4,500 meters. The main challenges include steep, occasionally rocky areas, particularly close to High Camp and above, and altitude, which can produce headaches and asthma.

Layers and trekking poles are helpful because the weather can change fast, with cold evenings, rain, and even snow likely. However, it is completely possible if you follow a steady pace, drink plenty of water, and have the essential equipment. The breathtaking vistas of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli will make the trip worthwhile. 

Due to the rapid ascent from dense forests to higher slopes at 4,500 meters, altitude sickness is a serious issue on the four-day Mardi Himal trip. Headaches, nausea, dizziness, exhaustion, and shortness of breath are symptoms that even physically fit hikers can experience, particularly while climbing quickly from High Camp to Base Camp.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine, climb carefully, drink 3–4 L of water per day, and think about spending a rest night at 3,000–3,500 m to acclimate. Stopping the climb and descending is essential if symptoms worsen, such as an overwhelming headache or vomiting. You can take acetazolamide (Diamox), which enhances appropriate hydration and pacing. You can make this walk safe and amazing by paying attention to your body and taking it slow. 

Purchasing travel insurance is a smart choice, even though the Mardi Himal hike is not very long. Insurance can cover medical care, emergency evacuation (including helicopter rescue), and trip cancellations. Trekking involves certain hazards, such as altitude sickness, injuries, or unexpected weather changes.

Verify that your coverage covers trekking activities clearly and remains in effect for the duration of your trip. With insurance, you can relax knowing that you’re covered for unexpected circumstances and can concentrate entirely on taking in the breathtaking mountain views.

The four-day Mardi-Himal journey is safe and well-planned; all hikers need to have permits (ACAP & TIMS) and hire a certified guide who is familiar with the route, handles emergencies, and facilitates communication. Teahouses are simple but secure; however, it is advisable to lock valuables and not leave equipment alone.

Only consume clean water to prevent becoming sick. The first-aid kits, satellite phones, and evacuation plans that guides carry along with your trip insurance guarantee assistance in the event of altitude illness or accident. To ensure the walk is both safe and fun, check the weather each day, use trekking poles on slippery terrain, and always heed your guide’s instructions.

Trekking across the Annapurna Conservation Area, a breathtakingly gorgeous but protected area of Nepal, is what the trek to Mardi Himal involves. All hikers are required to possess two official permits to respect the local environment and regulations. They are:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): 

• Mandatory for trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area (which includes Mardi Himal). 
• You can get it from the Nepal Tourism Board or the ACAP office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or at entry checkpoints along the trail.
• Cost: NPR 3,000 (US$25–$30) for foreigners and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System):

• It is needed to help authorities track trekkers for safety.
• You can get it from the Nepal Tourism Board  or TAAN offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Cost: NPR 2,000 ( US$ 17–$20) for individuals. It can be reduced for SAARC nationals.

Required Documents

• 6 months’ validity passport
• Passport photocopy
• Passport-sized photos (at least 2)
• Nepal visa (if applicable)
• Travel insurance details
• Two permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

This brief yet picturesque Mardi Himal hike leads you in a few days from verdant forests to magnificent mountain vistas. Being prepared is essential because the weather might change rapidly. This easy-to-follow packing list will help you keep warm, secure, and prepared for all weather conditions you may encounter on the trail, including snow, sunshine, or clear nights in a cozy teahouse:

General

• Passport: Carry your passport along with 2–3 photocopies and a few passport-sized photos (needed for permits).
• Trekking Permits: Get your TIMS card and ACAP permit before the trek—both are mandatory.
• Sleeping Bag: Choose one that can handle at least -15°C (5°F). Nights at High Camp can be cold.
• Cash: Bring enough Nepali rupees—no ATMs on the trail. You’ll need it for small purchases, tips, or snacks.
• Duffel Bag: Your main bag, usually carried by a porter. Keep non-essentials here.
• Backpack: Main backpack if you’re carrying your own gear and a daypack for essentials like water, snacks, a rain jacket, and a camera.
  

Upper Body

• Sunglasses: With good UV protection.
• Sun Hat & Woolen Hat: One to block the sun during the day, one to stay warm in the evening.
• Scarf/Buff: Great for protecting your neck from the sun, wind, or dust.
  

Torso

• Base Layers: Long-sleeved, quick-dry tops for warmth and layering.
• Fleece or Down Jacket: Essential for mornings and nights when it’s cold.
• Insulated Jacket: Optional, but helpful for extra warmth at higher altitudes.
• Sweater: Comfortable for relaxing in the tea houses.
• Waterproof Jacket: A must in case it rains (weather can be unpredictable).

Lower Body

• Trekking Pants: Light, breathable, and comfortable for long walks.
• Base Layer: Thermal leggings for cold mornings or evenings.
• Hiking Shorts: Optional for the lower part of the trail, where it’s warmer.
• Comfortable Pants: For resting at the lodges after hiking.
• Waterproof Pants: Good to have if you’re trekking during the rainy season.

Hands

• Light Gloves: For light warmth during cool mornings.
• Insulated Gloves: Warmer and waterproof, ideal for higher altitudes.

Footwears

• Woolen Socks: 2–3 pairs to keep feet warm and dry.
• Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof
• Camp Shoes or Sandals: Let your feet breathe after a day of hiking.
• Flip-flops: Handy for showers or bathrooms at tea houses.
  

Undergarments

• Moisture-Wicking Underwear: Keeps you dry and comfortable during the trek.
• Sports Bra (for women): Supportive and comfortable for hiking.
• Thermal Bottoms: Wear under your pants if it gets very cold.

Medication and First Aid Box

• Altitude Sickness Medication: Like Diamox
• Sunscreen & Lip Balm: High SPF is a must due to the strong mountain sun.
• Bandages/Blister Pads: For small cuts or foot blisters.
• Painkillers: Ibuprofen or Paracetamol for headaches or muscle aches.
• Cough Syrup: Dry air can cause throat irritation.
• Antibacterial Cream: Like Neosporin for cuts and scrapes.
• Thermometer: Optional, but useful if you’re feeling unwell.

Other Essentials

• Hand Sanitizer: Keeps hands clean when water isn’t available.
• Water Bottles: Bring bottles that hold at least 3–4 liters total.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, toilet paper, wet wipes, etc.
• Flashlight/Headlamp: Essential for early starts or power outages; carry extra batteries.
• Towel: A Small, quick-dry travel towel works best.

Optional

• Camera: To capture the stunning views, bring extra batteries or memory cards.
• Trekking Poles: Helpful for balance and reducing strain on your knees.
• Snacks: Chocolate, protein bars, nuts.
• Power Bank: Charging may not be available at every tea house.
• Dry Bags: Protect electronics or clothes from getting wet.
• Notebook or Journal: To record your experiences or sketch the scenery.
• Earplugs & Eye Mask: Useful if you’re a light sleeper or sharing a room.

We want to make your booking easy and flexible. Here are the details of our booking policy for the Mardi Himal Trek:

1. Advance Payment & Booking Confirmation

• To reserve your spot, you need to pay 30% of the total cost in advance.
• You can pay the remaining amount when you arrive in Kathmandu.
• Paying the full amount upfront is also an option.
• To confirm your booking, please send:
  1. Payment proof
  2. A clear copy of your passport
  3. Travel insurance details or an emergency contact
     

2. Payment Methods

• We accept various payment methods for your convenience:
  
  1. Online payment via our website’s secure gateway.
  2. Credit/Debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) with a 4% bank fee.
  3. Bank transfer or wire transfer (transaction fees apply).
  4. Cash or check payments can be made in Kathmandu.
     

3. Final Payment

• The remaining 70% of the trip cost should be paid before your trek starts.
• You can pay by cash, card, or bank transfer upon arrival.
  

4. Booking Modifications & Rescheduling

• Please notify us at least 30 days in advance if you want to change your trek dates.
• Date changes depend on availability and may include extra fees.
  

5. Travel Insurance Requirement

• Every trekker must have full travel insurance covering evacuation, high-altitude emergencies, cancellations, and delays.
  

6. Last-Minute Booking

• Last-minute bookings are possible up to 48 hours before the trek.
• However, during busy months like September to November, last-minute spots may not be available.
• We strongly recommend booking early to guarantee your place.