Introduction to Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is a route that has not been opened for long, and attracts fewer visitors than its more established ‘sisters’. This week-long trek has all the plus points of other Annapurna treks combined with a bit more wilderness and solitude. For example, on offer are the most spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapucchre, and Manaslu ranges!
The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek is a route that has not been opened for long, and attracts fewer visitors than its more established ‘sisters’. This week-long trek has all the plus points of other Annapurna treks combined with a bit more wilderness and solitude. For example, on offer are the most spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapucchre, and Manaslu ranges!
Steep-sided valleys, rhododendron and bamboo forests, ridge hiking, and the diversity of flora and fauna are only seen in the Himalayas making this an interesting glimpse into the biodiversity of the mountains. The highest altitude is at High Camp (4,100m), with the rest of the trail never exceeding 3,150m (Low Camp). This trek can be also be extended in length should there be more time.
This is a lovely trek for those with less time and who prefer to be more off the beaten track!
This is a lovely trek for those with less time and who prefer to be more off the beaten track!
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Highlights
Why Book with Magical Nepal
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara (Drive)
Pokhara – 830 m / 2723 ft – 8 hrs
After breakfast, board the early morning tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Tourist buses are more comfortable than other public transport in Nepal so there shouldn’t be an issue with youngish children. Climbing out of the valley, the road winds downhill and meets the Rapti River on the way.
Following the Rapti River, you may see rafters enjoying the white water as they rise and fall with the waves. There are plenty of good stopping points along this route and the bus will stop for lunch at one of them.
Turning off at Mugling, the bus heads along a flat road for the last few hours until you reach Pokhara in the afternoon.
You can explore Pokhara – perhaps take a walk around Phewa Lake or go boating.
Pokhara
About Ilam
Day 2: Pokhara to Deurali via Kande
Deurali 2,200 m / 7,217.8 ft – 1 hrs drive / 5 hrs trek
After breakfast it’s a short drive to Kande where you will start hiking. The trek starts off with an uphill gradual climb to a small settlement called Australian Camp which has good views of the Annapurna range. After taking some refreshments here its around two hours further walk to Deurali.
The trails take you through some beautiful small villages where you can see first hand how the local people are living in this beautiful countryside. You will pass through rhododendron forests, which will be alive with red blooms in the spring, while overhead you will see Mt Machhapuchhre (commonly known as Fishtail because of its shape) that also dominates the town of Pokhara
Deurali
Day 3: Deurali to Low Camp
Low Camp – 2,900 m / 9,514.4 ft – 5 to 6 hrs
Today’s trek takes you from the peaceful village of Deurali (2,200 m) into the heart of the forested hills of the Mardi Himal trail. The route climbs steadily through dense rhododendron and oak forests, offering occasional clearings with views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) peeking through the trees. The trail becomes narrower and more secluded, creating a serene, almost mystical atmosphere as you gain elevation.
After about 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Low Camp (2,900 m), where the vegetation starts to thin and the air becomes noticeably cooler. Low Camp offers limited but cozy teahouse accommodations and the first panoramic glimpses of the Annapurna South and Machapuchare ranges above the treetops. It’s an ideal spot to relax, acclimatize, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading into higher alpine terrain.
Low Camp
Day 4: Low Camp to High Camp
High Camp – 3,585 meters / 11,761.8 ft 6 to 7 hrs
After breakfast, set off towards High Camp. With an elevation gain of almost 700m / 2,296.5 ft, you may feel the effects of this high altitude. The guide will ensure you take plenty of breaks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
You will hike through more rhododendron forests today and whereas at the lower altitude on Day 2 and Day 3 you may have seen some larger wildlife – monkeys, for example, at this higher altitude it is more likely you will see only mammals such as the Himalayan Marmot (a type of ground squirrel) or Himalayan tahr (wild goats). There will be plenty of birdlife including the Danphe (a pheasant) which is Nepal’s national bird.
The mountains you will see today are Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli and Machhapurchhre, these are all particularly clear at the village of Badal Danda (danda meaning hill).
Trekking on you leave the treeline behind until you reach High Camp.
High Camp
Day 5: High Camp – Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to Badal Danda
Badal Danda – 3,210 meters / 10,531.4 ft 7 to 8 hrs
This may be the most challenging day of the trek as the trails are uneven and can be slippery. Snow is another possibility depending on the time of year you are there.
Even if crampons are not needed, we highly recommend you using walking poles today even if you have not used them so far on this trek. Depending on the condition of the trail, which your guide will advise you of, should you not with to hike to base camp with children and/or seniors, your guide will offer a short, lower altitude alternative.
For those heading to base camp, it is recommended to leave very early in the morning in order to reach there before the high winds come in and while the weather is still clear so that the views are the best they can be. If you start early enough you will catch sunrise also!
The views from a view point just before the base camp and from Mardi Himal Base Camp itself are simply amazing. After spending some time being awed by the mountains, retrace your steps back to Badal Danda where the views are also excellent.
Badal Danda
Day 6: Bada Danda to Pokhara via Sidhing
Pokhara – 1,885 m / 6,184 ft 5 to 6 hrs
This may be the most challenging day of the trek as the trails are uneven and can be slippery. Snow is another possibility depending on the time of year you are there.
Even if crampons are not needed, we highly recommend you using walking poles today even if you have not used them so far on this trek. Depending on the condition of the trail, which your guide will advise you of, should you not with to hike to base camp with children and/or seniors, your guide will offer a short, lower altitude alternative.
For those heading to base camp, it is recommended to leave very early in the morning in order to reach there before the high winds come in and while the weather is still clear so that the views are the best they can be. If you start early enough you will catch sunrise also!
The views from a view point just before the base camp and from Mardi Himal Base Camp itself are simply amazing. After spending some time being awed by the mountains, retrace your steps back to Badal Danda where the views are also excellent.
Sidhing
Machhermo
Day 7: Pokhara via Sidhing to Kathmandu
Kathmandu – 1,324 m / 4,344 ft 5 to 7 hours
This day combines the final leg of your trek with the return to Nepal’s capital. The day starts with a moderately challenging descent from Badal Danda to Sidhing, following forested trails that are steep, uneven, and depending on the season, muddy or even snow-covered. Trekking poles are highly recommended today, especially if you’ve not used them so far.
Once you reach Sidhing, you’ll be picked up for the drive to Pokhara, where you’ll have a brief rest and perhaps a chance for a hot shower or quick meal before continuing on your journey to Kathmandu.
The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu is long but scenic, winding along the Prithvi Highway beside the Trishuli River. Expect varied road conditions with some bumpy patches and occasional traffic delays. If you prefer speed and comfort, a short 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is a great alternative, offering stunning Himalayan views when the skies are clear.
Arriving in Kathmandu marks the completion of your adventure. Take the evening to relax, explore Thamel, or enjoy a farewell dinner.
Kathmandu
Machhermo
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Includes
Packing List
Items | Details | Quantity |
---|---|---|
Underwear | Underwear Breathable synthetic | 3 |
Socks | Wool BYO | 3 |
Bra | Sports BYO | |
Base layers – Pants | Merino wool BYO | 1 |
Trekking shirt | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase it in Kathmandu | 2 |
Rain pants | Synthetic lightweight Frogg Toggs are excellent | 1 |
Trekking pants | Synthetic lightweight BYO or purchase in Ktm | 2 |
Hiking Shoes/Boots | BYO Salmon Quest 4D or Xultra 3 or 4 | 1 |
Camp shoes | Down booties BYO or purchase in Ktm | 1 |
Gloves | One pair of thin merino wool. 2nd pair thick insulated | 2 |
Hat | Sun hat or peak cap with neck protection. BYO | 1 |
Down Jacket | BYO | 1 |
Wind Breaker | BYO | 1 |
Note: Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu, while all other trekking equipment can be easily purchased. We at Magical Nepal will assist you in getting all your essentials sorted, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.
Read Before your book Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
To help you determine if the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is right for you, we’ve provided detailed information on key aspects such as flight details, trek difficulty, and the best times to visit. Each section also includes a video explanation to guide you in planning your trip smoothly.
If you’re still unsure whether this trek is the perfect choice for you, feel free to reach out to us via email or WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours to answer any additional questions.
If you would like us to pick you up at the Tribhuvan International Airport upon your arrival in Nepal, please let us know on the booking form. There is a small charge for this. The benefit is that it will save you the trouble of organizing a taxi, perhaps haggling with the driver, in an unfamiliar country.
Hotel Recommendations:
Hotels in Kathmandu are not included in your trek. Check sites like booking.com or hostelworld.com for accommodation. We recommend looking in the area known as Thamel. Thamel is the tourist hub of Kathmandu, with many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Our office is also located there.
Explore Kathmandu:
If you have newly arrived in Kathmandu, take some time to explore the city either by foot, on a rickshaw (found only these days in Thamel), or on an organized tour with us. The ancient capital has many wonderful sights to see, including 7 UNESCO sites. Should you have children, please let us know so we can organize to take you to more family-friendly places. For example, perhaps your young ones do not need to see burning ghats, which have cremations often. Please ask about a tour.
Visa for Nepal
Visa on arrival is available for people from most countries via the Immigration Department of Nepal’s online site. Please complete the form online, then print it out and bring it with you. Bring USD cash to make payment on arrival at the airport. This should be in exact money, as no change is given.
Visa on arrival costs:
- 15 Days – 30 USD
- 30 Days – 50 USD
- 90 Days – 125 USD
Note: Children under 10 will receive a gratis visa but must still enter the country with a valid passport.
- Pass through traditional Gurung and Magar villages like Siding and Landruk.
- Experience warm local hospitality and authentic rural Himalayan life.
- Encounter Buddhist prayer flags, chortens, and small monasteries along the trail.
- Enjoy family-run teahouses offering home-cooked Nepali meals and cultural charm.
- Trek through rhododendron and oak forests rich in biodiversity.
- Spot the Himalayan Monal (Danphe), Nepal’s colorful national bird.
- Look out for langurs, barking deer, and musk deer in the forested zones.
- Observe pheasants, butterflies, and seasonal birdlife in mid-elevation areas.
- Watch raptors like eagles soaring above the ridgelines on clear days.
- The trail lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, supporting protected wildlife and ecosystems.
Landscapes: This quiet, secluded area is near the busy town of Pokhara and the busy Annapurna trekking routes. As a result, it still has its beautiful, untouched rhododendron, oak, and pine forests. The mountains are stunning, how could they not be? With fantastic views of Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, and Machhapurchhre, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of these incredible mountains.
Peoples: Along this trek, you will meet people from the Gurung, Magar, and Tamang groups. Overall, Gurungs are the most prominent and you can see their way of life and traditions as you pass through the villages. Gurungs are Buddhists and history tells that they came over from Tibet even before Buddhism had reach there, therefore their style of Buddhism is a little different to those people who migrated later. They are also renowned as loyal soldiers and form the Gurka regiment in the Nepal, Indian, and British armies.
Wildlife: You may see some monkeys at the start of this trek, please do not feed or try to pet them! Overall, the wildlife on the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is smaller mammals, such as a type of ground squirrel known as the Himalayan Marmot and the Himalayan tahr, which is from the goat family.
Birds: Birds of prey may be seen overhead, but more exciting is the colorful Danphe (a pheasant), Nepal’s national bird. The males are extremely colorful in their metallic shimmering feathers; the females are much more dignified in their less colorful plumage. Naturally!
Porridge
Tibetan bread
Eggs
Pancakes
Muesli
Noodles
Coffee/tea
Nepali Dal Bhat
Rice, lentils & veggies
Momo
Tibetan dumplings
Apple pie
Sweet trail dessert
Chowmein
Fried noodles
Fried Rice
With egg or vegetables
Soups
Vegetable, garlic
Thukpa
Tibetan soup with flat noodles
Rice Pudding
With egg or vegetables
Tea
Coffee
Soft drinks
fruit juice
beer
water
hot chocolate
- Stick to hot meals: Choose freshly cooked, steaming food to avoid contamination.
- Avoid meat high up: Skip meat at higher elevations due to poor storage and hygiene.
- Dal Bhat wins: It’s safe, filling, and often comes with free refills.
- Drink purified water: Always use tablets, filters, or boiled water.
- Pack trail snacks: Nuts, dried fruits, bars, and chocolate are great energy boosters.
- Go vegetarian: Easier on digestion and safer in remote areas.
- Adjust spice level: Ask for mild if you’re spice-sensitive — cooks can accommodate.
- Eat consistently: Don’t skip meals — steady fuel helps with altitude performance.
- Mind dietary needs: Vegetarian is easy; for vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-specific diets, bring extras and inform your guide in advance.
This trek includes three meals a day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, except in Pokhara, where only breakfast is included.
Breakfast and dinner are eaten in the teahouses overnight; lunch is taken on the trail in a smaller teahouse/ tea shop and may be more limited in choice.
The food in the teahouses is basic Nepali and Chinese/ Tibetan fare with some Western items. Keep in mind that this trek is off the busy Annapurna trekking routes, so what it makes up for in quiet ambiance, it may slightly lack in food varieties.
We highly recommend you bring your own snacks, not because you will be hungry (meals are plentiful and filling), but because you may simply want some ‘comfort food’ from home, particularly if you are traveling with children.
Soft drinks are available at the teahouses, but you must pay for them, and they are more expensive than in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Depending on the season, fresh juice may be available.
Dietary restrictions on the trek
Vegetarian food is available in all eateries in Nepal, as Nepali food is very much based on vegetables. For vegans, the choices may be smaller, especially regarding protein. Tofu may be available in places. Please provide us with a list of anything you cannot eat because of allergies, and we will make sure the teahouses know about this.
Tips on Food in Mardi Himal Base Camp:
- Snacks such as dried fruit and nuts, chocolate bars, power bars, cookies, etc., are great to carry. Even if you do not usually eat chocolate, you may be exceptionally grateful you threw a couple of bars in your pack!
- Do not eat any meat or chicken on the trail. Although chicken may very well be fresh at the lower altitudes, it is best to be safe, particularly if you are new to Nepal.
- Tell the teahouse not to make your food too spicy.
- Eat all the meals available, even if you do not feel hungry. You need the energy. If you must, have a power bar for lunch.
Water:
Do not drink the tap water or natural spring water untreated or unfiltered. Bring drops or tablets to purify the water. Wait 30 minutes after using the drops/ tablets before drinking. You can add flavoured powder (available in Kathmandu or bring from home) to mask the taste if you like. A Lifestraw will filter out any bigger particles/ bacteria from tap/ spring water.
The teahouses will provide you with boiled drinking water (which might be better for children), but you will have to pay for this.
Tips on Water in Mardi Himal Base Camp :
- Keep in mind drinking tea/ coffee can dehydrate you, and alcohol is worse! Drink water at the same time as you are drinking other drinks at breakfast and dinner.
- Commercial mineral water in plastic bottles is banned in the Annapurna region. Bring your own reusable bottles/water camel to store water in.
- Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water daily – at least 3 ltrs on this trek.
- If you are travelling in a group, it is faster if you all order the same food items– if possible!
- There is no heating or sockets in the sleeping rooms.
- You may have to share the toilet and shower facilities with other trekkers.
- The dining rooms is the place to be in the cold evenings!
- Do not enter the kitchen – the staff will be busy preparing food etc.
- Hot water for the shower will cost around USD2-5 per time.
- Recharging your electronics will cost around USD2-5 per time.
- WiFi, where available, is also an extra charge at a similar rate.
Trekking lodges are known as teahouses in Nepal.
While in the busier regions and trails teahouses have now morphed into pretty comfortable lodges, the accommodation on the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is pretty much as it was all over Nepal 20 years ago. Basic.
The sleeping rooms consist usually of two single beds and there may be shared toilet facilities. There is no heating in the sleeping rooms so bringing your own sleeping bag is worthwhile, especially for the nights you are at higher altitudes.
The dining room is heated, and therefore it is the place to socialise in the evening!
Most teahouses have some sort of electricity so you can charge your equipment. However, there is a small price to pay for this.
There is also a charge for hot showers, but you will not need every night – this is a short trek so maybe one shower is enough ?
Bring some entertainment for younger children for the evenings – but we don’t need to tell parents that right?
- You will contribute to the porter’s family and community by hiring him.
- Please do not ask a porter to carry more than 20kg. You will receive a duffle bag from us which is designed for easy carrying by the porter.
- Sharing with another trekker is a cost-effective way to hire a porter. In this case, please keep your pack down to 10kg max.
- It’s a great idea if you have small children because at some point they may need to be helped/ carried for a while by you.
Although this is not a long trek nor too strenuous, if you are unsure if you can carry your own pack for 7 or 8 hours at a time, then we can recommend hiring a porter.
This gives you the physical freedom of not having to carry a heavy pack and allows you to fully enjoy the trek and the beauty surrounding you without a care.
If you have children, a porter does make a lot of sense too.
The cost of a porter is not included in the cost of your trek – there is an extra charge.
In general, porters can carry up to 20kg in weight. If you would like to share a porter with another trekker, that would half the cost to you. Remember that it would mean your pack would have to be no more than 10kg in weight. If you are travelling with family, a porter would enable you to divide up the gear you need to bring with you.
Don’t forget you will be carrying your own day pack (because porters go ahead so will not be walking with you) of essential things you need on the trek like suncream and water. The weight of that day pack can feel heavier at altitude!
Tipping the Guide and Porter
The guide and porter work hard – show your appreciation by tipping them. It is normal to tip your guide 10% of the cost of your trek – for example if your trek costs USD700 then you would tip him USD70. If you hire a porter then you should tip him 10% of what you pay to hire him. Please note that tips go 100% to the guide or porter.
- Badal Danda (3,210 m): A scenic ridge offering panoramic views above the clouds.
- High Camp (3,580 m): Final overnight stop before the Base Camp; cold and exposed.
- Viewpoint (approx. 4,200 m): Popular sunrise spot with breathtaking mountain vistas.
- Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m): Highest point of the trek; physically demanding and weather-sensitive.
- Ridge trails above Low Camp: Exposed and windy, with stunning alpine terrain and less vegetation.
- Headache – Most common early warning sign.
- Nausea or vomiting – Feeling sick, often with reduced appetite.
- Dizziness or light-headedness – Especially noticeable when standing or walking.
- Fatigue – Unusual tiredness despite resting.
- Shortness of breath – Especially during rest or light activity.
- Insomnia – Difficulty sleeping or frequent waking.
- Loss of coordination (ataxia) – Unsteady walking or trouble balancing.
- Swelling – Puffiness in face, hands, or feet (mild fluid retention).
- Irritability or confusion – Unusual mood changes or disorientation.
- rain in advance with cardio, stair climbing, and leg-strengthening exercises.
- Pace yourself—walk slowly, especially on steep ascents near High Camp.
- Stay hydrated—drink at least 3–4 liters of water daily to help with acclimatization.
- Take acclimatization breaks, especially between Low Camp and High Camp.
- Use trekking poles to reduce strain on knees during ascents and descents.
- Pack light but smart—carry only essentials and include warm layers for higher altitudes.
- Wear proper trekking boots—broken-in and waterproof with good grip.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, especially above 3,000 meters.
- Start early in the morning to avoid strong afternoon winds and cloud cover.
- Listen to your body—if you feel unwell, rest and don’t push higher too quickly.
The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with good fitness and for experienced trekkers seeking a shorter adventure. The trail involves daily hikes of 4 to 6 hours, with a gradual ascent from lush forests to alpine ridgelines. While it doesn’t require technical climbing, the section from High Camp (3,580 m) to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) can be steep, rocky, and physically demanding—especially in cold or snowy conditions. Proper acclimatization, pacing, and gear (like trekking poles and warm clothing) are important for comfort and safety.
The trails are relatively straight forward and easy to follow, with the stunning mountains all around you. With only two days at an altitude over 3,000 m / 9,842.5 ft this is not a high altitude trek although care needs to be taken on those two days with regards to altitude related illness. The days involve 6 to 7 hours, with one longer day, but the guide will encourage you to go slowly and steadily to both enjoy the scenery and not over-stress yourself.
- Acclimatize gradually—don’t rush the ascent, especially above 3,000 meters.
- Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water to prevent altitude-related issues.
- Check the weather forecast—avoid trekking during storms or heavy snowfall.
- Start early each day to avoid afternoon fog and potential trail hazards.
- Wear proper gear—good hiking boots, layered clothing, and rain protection are essential.
- Carry a basic first aid kit with altitude sickness medication and blister care.
- Use trekking poles to improve balance and reduce joint strain.
- Inform someone of your itinerary, especially if trekking without a guide.
- Avoid hiking alone, particularly in high-altitude or remote areas.
- Follow local advice from guides or teahouse owners regarding trail conditions.
With no really tricky paths to follow, this trek does not undertake any unsafe routes. If there are any difficult places, the guide will help you cross them. Using trekking poles will help immensely to steady yourself.
The three basic rules for safety on a trek are: stay hydrated, tell your guide if you feel unwell, and don’t wander off alone!
The other rule is bringing the correct gear – good, well worn trekking boots can be the key to a great trek.
Carry a small first aid kit and don’t forget to bring whatever usual medicines you might take.
Be respectful:
Nepal is a safe country for women as well as men. However, with no beaches, Nepal has not experienced some of the less-clothed beach life some other parts of Asia have. Dressing appropriately will encourage the locals to be more friendly towards you. On a trek it is easy to dress respectfully – it will either be too sunny or two cold for skimpy clothes! Take care to cover up in monasteries and temples also. And be mindful when taking photographs of people or religious objects. You may notice, shoes are not worn inside people’s homes or in temples or monasteries.
- Pack for mixed weather—mornings are cool, afternoons warm, and sudden rain is possible.
- Bring a light rain jacket or poncho, as occasional pre-monsoon showers may occur.
- Enjoy the rhododendron blooms, especially between Forest Camp and Low Camp.
- Wear sun protection—UV is strong even if it’s cool (hat, sunglasses, SPF).
- Carry trekking poles to navigate slippery forest trails after spring rain.
- Book teahouses in advance—spring is a busy season, especially in April.
- Pack allergy meds if sensitive—pollen levels can rise with blooming forests.
- Charge your devices at lower camps, as higher lodges may have limited power.
- Enjoy sunrise and sunset views from High Camp or Badal Danda—spring skies are often magical.
- Expect clear skies and stunning mountain views—ideal conditions for photography.
- Pack warm layers—mornings and evenings are chilly, especially at High Camp.
- Start your trek early each day to make the most of daylight and visibility.
- Book teahouses in advance, as autumn is peak trekking season in Nepal.
- Bring a good camera or phone—autumn offers crystal-clear views of Machapuchare and Annapurna.
- Hydrate well even in cooler weather to avoid altitude issues.
- Carry a headlamp or flashlight, as it gets darker earlier in the evenings.
- Wear proper footwear—dry trails still have loose stones and steep ridges.
- Expect crisp air and low humidity, making trekking more comfortable.
- Enjoy cultural experiences, as local festivals like Dashain and Tihar may coincide with your trek.
- Wear a quality rain jacket or poncho—daily rain showers are common.
- Use waterproof covers for your backpack and electronics.
- Start early each day to avoid heavy afternoon rain and slippery trails.
- Expect clouded mountain views, but lush green scenery and wildflowers.
- Wear leech socks or apply salt/tobacco powder to deter leeches in forested areas.
- Trekking poles are a must for slippery and muddy trails.
- Avoid cotton clothing—opt for quick-drying synthetic or wool layers.
- Book teahouses with shelters/drying areas for wet clothes and gear.
- Bring anti-fungal foot powder to manage wet conditions.
- Be flexible with plans—landslides and trail closures can cause delays.
- Dress in warm layers, including thermal base layers, fleece, and a down jacket.
- Expect freezing temperatures, especially at High Camp and during early mornings.
- Carry microspikes or crampons, as trails may be icy or snow-covered.
- Start your trek early in the day to avoid trekking in cold evening conditions.
- Pack extra batteries or a power bank, as cold drains devices faster.
- Bring a four-season sleeping bag, as teahouse blankets may not be enough.
- Check in advance if teahouses are open, especially above Badal Danda.
- Drink warm fluids and stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Watch for signs of altitude sickness, as cold weather can mask early symptoms.
- Enjoy uncrowded trails, crisp skies, and snow-draped Himalayan views.
There are four seasons in Nepal – spring, monsoon (summer), autumn and winter. Actually, there are six seasons in Nepal, but for tourism purposes, there are four!
For this trek, as for many others, the best times to come is in the spring or in the autumn.
Spring: (March to May) The blue skies offset the snow mountains, while the warmer weather makes it a pleasant time to trek. The rhododendron forests will be in bloom which adds to the charm.
Autumn: (September to November) Similar to spring but remember that the beginning of autumn is the end of the monsoon season so it may be cooler, with some rain and dampness. By October, things will be sunny and warm.
Monsoon: (June – September) The monsoon brings frequent rain showers. And some torrential downpours. But it is hard to predict the exact weather. Visibility may be low, and the trails can be slippery when wet.
Winter (December – February) December is usually quite warm in Nepal, certainly in the first half of the month. At the higher locations such as Mardi Himal Base Camp, there may be snow in December and definitely in January and February we do not recommend you attempt to reach the higher elevations.
- Daily budget: Around USD 25–40 per day, depending on spending habits and altitude.
- Accommodation: Basic teahouses cost NPR 500–1,000 per night (often free if meals are purchased).
- Meals: Expect NPR 500–800 per meal at higher altitudes; prices rise as you ascend.
- Drinking water: Bottled water costs NPR 100–300, so consider carrying purification tablets or a filter bottle.
- Hot showers & charging: Often NPR 200–500 extra, especially above Low Camp.
- Wi-Fi (if available): May cost NPR 200–500 per session at lower altitudes.
- Trekking permits:
- ACAP Permit: NPR 3,000
- Currency used: Nepali Rupees (NPR)—foreign currency is not accepted on the trail.
- No ATMs on the trail—withdraw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu before starting.
- Small denominations help, as change is limited in teahouses and villages.
The Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is a cost-effective adventure, but budgeting properly is important since there are no ATMs or mobile payment options once you leave Pokhara. On average, you should plan to spend around USD 25 to 40 per day, covering accommodation, meals, water, and basic services. Teahouses typically charge NPR 500 to 1,000 per night, though some offer free lodging if you dine there. Meals become more expensive as you ascend, with dishes like dal bhat or noodles costing between NPR 500–800 at higher elevations like High Camp.
Extras such as hot showers, charging electronics, or limited Wi-Fi often cost an additional NPR 200–500. Save money by bringing a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets, as bottled water can cost NPR 100–300 per liter in remote areas. The required Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is NPR 3,000, and must be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu before you begin the trek.
Make sure to carry all your cash in Nepali Rupees (NPR), as credit cards and foreign currency are not accepted on the trail. Withdraw enough in Pokhara, and bring small denominations since change may be limited in rural teahouses. With the right preparation, your Mardi Himal trek can be both affordable and smooth.
What Currency to Use
Tips to your guide and porter can be in either Nepali Rupees or other currencies.
Things you might want to buy on the trail such as cold drinks, hot showers etc should be paid in Nepali rupees. There is no where to change/ obtain money on this trails so bring rupees with you from Kathmandu.
Public transport is included in your trek cost. If you wish to hire a private jeep, please discuss this with us. If you wish to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara please also discuss with us at the time of booking your trek.
Food: Three meals a day – breakfast, lunch and dinner – are included in the teahouses. Any extras such as cold drinks, you will have to buy yourself. In the hotel in Pokhara only breakfast is included, not dinner.
In the teahouse: Hot water showers, charging electronics, and Wi-Fi are all things the teahouse will expect you to pay for. Roughly speaking, each item costs between USD2-5 a time.
Cold drinks, beer and other menu items outside of meals times are also chargeable. As is boiled drinking water. All these should be paid for in Nepali rupees.
Tips: Please calculate the tips for your guide and porter which can be paid in dollars or other currencies.
**We can recommend you bring around USD 12-15 per day, in Nepali rupees, plus the tips for the guide and porter. **
Before you come expenses: Don’t forget to calculate the cost of the visa for Nepal, your travel insurance and your trekking gear, should you need to buy any.
There should be phone connectivity in this region, and the teahouses will have Wi-Fi. But bad weather and even nightfall can sometimes interfere with reception.
It may be convenience to buy a Nepal sim card at the airport on your arrival which will give you access to a local data package.
Tips for Communication
You can buy a NTC or NCELL sim card at the Tribhuvan International Airport for data internet in case of WiFi outage.
Don’t get frustrated if the network is sometimes unavailable – this is the Himalayas after all!
Having travel insurance is highly recommended for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek, especially since the route reaches elevations up to 4,500 meters. While the trek is non-technical and moderate in difficulty, high altitude, remote terrain, and rapidly changing weather can still pose risks. Your insurance policy should cover high-altitude trekking up to at least 5,000 meters, as well as emergency medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost baggage, and travel delays.
Be sure to read the policy details carefully, some providers require an adventure sports or trekking upgrade to include high-altitude coverage in Nepal.
When you book with Magical Nepal, we strongly recommend that all clients provide proof of valid travel insurance before the trek begins. Our team prioritizes your safety and will assist in coordinating support and evacuation if needed, but having a proper policy is crucial to make this possible without delays.
Choose a provider with 24/7 emergency support, and carry both a digital and printed copy of your insurance certificate along with important contact numbers. With the right coverage and Magical Nepal’s experienced support, you can trek with confidence and peace of mind.
If you are travelling with your family or a group of friends, it is possible to have a ‘private trek’. That is, you will have your own guide and there will not be other trekkers on your trek.
If you are travelling alone then you may be joined with a group of people who also want to do the same trek. This is a ‘group trek’. While it is possible to be one person on a private trek, it depends on the availability of the guides and may be hard to achieve in peak seasons.
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