Mardi Himal Trek is a short and scenic trekking adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a wonderful combination of lush forests, alpine meadows, traditional Gurung villages, and spectacular Himalayan scenery. The trek reaches Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) and provides impressive views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding Annapurna range. With South Col Adventures, proper preparation, suitable trekking equipment, good fitness, and flexibility for changing mountain conditions are important for a safe and enjoyable journey.
📌 01. Booking & Confirmation
To confirm your Mardi Himal Trek, please provide:
- Completed booking details
- Valid passport copy
- Required travel information
- 10% non-refundable advance payment
Once the documents and payment are received, South Col Adventures will confirm your booking and arrange permits, accommodation, transportation, guides, porters, meals, and other trekking logistics.
Early booking is recommended, particularly during the spring and autumn seasons.
❌ 02. Cancellation & Refund
The 10% booking deposit is non-refundable if the trip is cancelled within 30 days before departure.
If the required balance is not paid by the agreed deadline, South Col Adventures may consider the booking cancelled and the deposit forfeited.
For complete cancellation terms, please refer to our CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY.
💳 03. Payment Methods
South Col Adventures accepts:
- Bank Transfer
- Visa or MasterCard — 4% card processing fee applies
- Credit Card — please contact South Col Adventures for payment instructions
Bank charges, payment gateway fees, and currency conversion costs are payable by the Client.
🌤️ 04. Best Time for Mardi Himal Trek
The best trekking seasons are:
Spring: March–May
Autumn: September–November
These periods generally offer clear skies, pleasant trekking conditions, good mountain visibility, and favorable weather. South Col Adventures particularly recommends the post-monsoon autumn season for clear mountain views and comfortable trekking conditions.
Mardi Himal can also be trekked in other seasons, although monsoon rain and winter snow may make some sections more challenging.
🥾 05. Difficulty Level
Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and some hiking experience. The trail includes several steep ascents and descents, stone steps, forest paths, and rocky sections.
Major challenges include:
- Steep uphill and downhill sections
- Long walking days
- Rocky and uneven trails
- Stone staircases
- Gradual altitude gain
- Cold conditions at higher elevations
The highest point is Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,500 m. No technical climbing is required.
🏔️ 06. Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization
The trek reaches 4,500 m, so altitude can still be a consideration, particularly for trekkers who are not accustomed to high elevations.
Possible symptoms include:
Headache • Nausea • Dizziness • Fatigue • Loss of appetite • Difficulty sleeping
Maintain a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, eat properly, and get enough rest.
If serious symptoms develop, inform your guide immediately and descend if necessary.
Safety always comes before reaching Mardi Himal Base Camp.
💪 07. Fitness & Preparation
Good basic fitness and endurance are recommended. Prepare with:
- Regular walking and hiking
- Uphill and stair training
- Cardiovascular exercises
- Leg strengthening
- Short backpack hikes
- Practice on uneven terrain
Previous trekking experience is not mandatory, but basic hiking experience will make the trek more comfortable.
🛂 08. Permits & Documents
The Mardi Himal Trek requires:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS Card
- Applicable local permits
South Col Adventures assists with arranging the required permits and documentation.
Carry your passport, permits, travel documents, and insurance details throughout the trek.
🎒 09. Trekking Equipment
Essential trekking equipment may include:
Trekking boots • Trekking poles • Sleeping bag • Daypack • Headlamp • Waterproof jacket • Down jacket • Warm layers
Personal gear should also include:
- Warm gloves and socks
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water bottles
- Personal medication
- Toiletries
- Comfortable trekking clothes
The Mardi Himal route primarily uses tea houses and local lodges, so camping equipment is generally not required.
🌨️ 10. Weather & Trail Conditions
Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Rain, fog, snowfall, strong winds, cold temperatures, and slippery or muddy trails may affect trekking conditions.
Conditions around High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp can be colder and more challenging, particularly during winter.
South Col Adventures may modify or adjust the itinerary whenever necessary for safety.
🏡 11. Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation is generally provided in tea houses and local lodges throughout the trek. The route also provides opportunities to experience traditional local hospitality and Gurung village life.
Meals generally include:
Dal Bhat • Noodles • Soups • Tibetan-style dishes • Vegetables • Pasta • Bread • Eggs • Tea and Coffee
Food options become more limited at higher elevations, so maintaining good nutrition and hydration is important.
🛡️ 12. Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended and should cover:
- High-altitude trekking
- Emergency medical treatment
- Helicopter evacuation
- Mountain rescue
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost or delayed baggage
Ensure your policy covers trekking up to at least 4,500 m.
🚁 13. Safety & Emergency Support
Safety remains a priority throughout the trek. Our guides monitor weather, altitude, trail conditions, and the health of participants.
If an emergency occurs, appropriate medical, rescue, or evacuation arrangements will be coordinated according to the situation.
The itinerary may be adjusted whenever necessary for safety.
📱 14. Communication & Electricity
Mobile network and internet services are available in some areas but may become limited or unreliable at higher elevations.
Electricity is available at many lodges, generally for a fee. Carry a power bank, spare batteries, and essential electronic devices.
🌱 15. Responsible Travel
Mardi Himal lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, making responsible trekking important.
Trekkers are encouraged to:
- Minimize plastic and waste
- Avoid littering
- Carry reusable water bottles
- Respect Gurung culture and traditions
- Respect local communities
- Conserve water and energy
- Protect wildlife and vegetation
- Follow responsible trekking practices
🎒 Mardi Himal Trek Guidelines
01. Prepare Your Fitness
Train with regular walking, hiking, cardio, and uphill exercises before departure.
02. Prepare Your Trekking Boots
Wear your boots before the trek to prevent blisters and ensure comfort.
03. Walk at a Comfortable Pace
Maintain a steady pace and avoid unnecessary exertion, especially on steep sections.
04. Watch for Altitude Symptoms
Stay hydrated and immediately report headache, nausea, dizziness, or unusual fatigue to your guide.
05. Carry a Daypack
Keep water, snacks, medication, passport, cash, sunscreen, sunglasses, and warm layers with you.
06. Carry Enough Cash
Carry sufficient Nepalese rupees for personal expenses, as card and ATM facilities can be limited along the trail.
07. Prepare for Weather Changes
Carry rain protection and warm clothing because mountain weather can change quickly.
08. Eat Well & Stay Hydrated
Drink regularly and carry snacks such as nuts, chocolate, dried fruit, or energy bars.
09. Protect Yourself From the Sun and Cold
Use sunglasses, sunscreen, warm layers, gloves, and appropriate head protection.
10. Be Prepared for Steep Trails
The route includes stone steps, steep ascents, descents, and rocky sections, so trekking poles can be useful.
11. Respect Local Culture
Respect Gurung traditions, local communities, monasteries, and cultural sites along the route.
12. Be Flexible With Weather
Rain, snow, fog, or poor trail conditions may require changes to the planned itinerary.
13. Carry Proper Insurance
Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation.
14. Plan Personal Expenses
Keep extra cash for Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, snacks, drinks, laundry, and shopping. Tipping is voluntary.
15. Protect the Mountain Environment
Avoid littering, reduce waste, use reusable bottles, and help preserve the natural beauty of the Annapurna region.
🏔️ Trek Prepared. Travel Responsibly. Discover Mardi Himal with South Col Adventures.
