Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a short and sweet trek in the eastern part of the Annapurna region.  The quick loop trail takes us up to 4500m, giving us spectacular views of Mardi Himal (5587m) and other peaks.  This trek is just beginning to gain popularity, so get there before it’s too crowded!  The solitude along the path allows us to develop a greater appreciation for the local villages and surrounded landscapes. Themany natural environmentscombined with the rich cultureof the villages make the Mardi Himal Trek the full package. From rhododendron forests to rugged high-mountain landscapes, the Mardi Himal Trek is nothing short of amazing.

After a short drive from Pokhara, we begin the trek from Kande.  Upon embarking on the trek, the picturesque scenery isimmediately observed. We pass through densesub-tropical oak and rhododendronforests, full of life.  The bright red rhododendron trees (the national flower of Nepal) are sharply juxtaposed against the surrounding greenery.  We are happy to breathe in the fresh air of the forest.  As we climb higher, our environment changes.  We suddenly find ourselvesleaving the jungle and walking onto a ridge with nothing but mountains all around us. Atthishigh-altitude level, the terrain is mostlygrazing meadows, encompassed by the highest mountain range in the world.

Seeing the mountains gives us a huge rush.  The vista at Upper Viewpoint, is a major highlight of this trek. We can see Mardi Himal (5587m), as well as Macchapucchre (6993m),Hiunchuli (6441m),Baraha Shikhar (7647m),Singu Chuli (6501m) AnnapurnaI (8090m), andAnnapurna South (7219m).  We are lucky to share a presence with this many Himalayan peaks. From here, we ascend back down, finishing up the loop trail.  After trekking to Lumre, we drive back to Pokhara and return to Kathmandu.

Trekking is possible throughout the year, but Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) provide the best weather.  During the Spring, there is a bit more color and the rhododendrons are blooming, and in the Autumn months, the skies are generally clearer.  The Mardi Himal Trek requires basic fitness and acclimatization to avoid acute mountain sickness.