Mardi Himal is a popular trekking destination located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It’s a relatively new trekking route that has gained popularity in recent years due to its breathtaking views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu. May is a great time to trek Mardi Himal as the weather is generally good, with clear skies and warm temperatures.
Here are some details about the Mardi Himal Trek in May:
Trek Duration: The Mardi Himal Trek usually takes 5-7 days to complete, depending on the route and itinerary you choose. The length of the trek depends on how much time you have and how many rest days you want to take along the way.
Starting Point: The trek starts from the town of Kande, which is about 20 kilometers away from Pokhara. You can take a taxi or a bus from Pokhara to Kande. The drive takes around an hour.
Permits: To trek Mardi Himal, you will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the Nepal Tourism Board Information Center in Pokhara. Alternatively, you can get these permits in Nayapul, which is the starting point of many Annapurna treks.
Accommodation: There are several teahouses and lodges along the Mardi Himal trekking route. These provide basic accommodation and meals. The lodges are comfortable and offer a warm bed and hot meals. However, the lodges may be basic and not offer all the amenities of a hotel. It’s best to book in advance during the peak season to ensure you get a room.
Weather: May is a great time to trek Mardi Himal, as the weather is generally good with clear skies and warm temperatures. The temperature during the day ranges from 10-20 degrees Celsius, and it can get cooler at night. However, there may be occasional rain showers, so it’s best to be prepared with rain gear.
Difficulty: The Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderate trek, with some steep and rocky sections. The trail is not very crowded, and you will have a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region without the crowds. It’s a good idea to have some previous trekking experience and be in good physical condition before attempting this trek.
Itinerary: Here’s a more detailed itinerary for the Mardi Himal Trek in May:
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande and trek to Deurali (2100m)
Day 2: Trek from Deurali to Forest Camp (2550m)
Day 3: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp (2990m)
Day 4: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3580m)
Day 5: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500m) and back to High Camp
Day 6: Trek from High Camp to Sidding (1700m) and drive to Pokhara
Day 7: Departure from Pokhara
Overall, the Mardi Himal Trek in May offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and a great trekking experience. With proper preparation and planning, you can have an enjoyable and memorable trekking experience in Nepal.
