The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively less-known trekking destination in Nepal that takes hikers to the base camp of Mardi Himal, which is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek typically takes 5-7 days to complete, depending on the pace of the group and the itinerary. The trek starts and ends in the town of Pokhara, and the route passes through the beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional villages and offers views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The trek takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, including subtropical forests, high-altitude deserts, and glacial valleys. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to experience the local culture and way of life of the Gurung and Magar people. The trek passes through many small villages and stops at local teahouses for accommodation and meals.
One of the highlights of the trek is the visit to the base camp of Mardi Himal, which is located at an altitude of 5,587 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Gangapurna, and others. The trek also includes an opportunity to see the beautiful terraced fields, waterfalls, and explore the traditional villages.
It is important to have a proper physical preparation before the trek, also hiring a guide or a porter and checking the weather conditions are highly recommended to make the trek safe and enjoyable. Additionally, permits are required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.