Annapurna and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Combined Trek is an excellent trek to some of the best mountain landscapes in Nepal, known as the Annapurna and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. The 13-day trek has the chance to see two of the most popular destinations of the Himalayas at the same time. You start from Pokhara, a charming town with lakes surrounding it, and trek to rural Gurung villages and untouched rhododendron forests.
The hike brings you to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130m as a beginning point, with huge mountains hemming a breathtaking natural amphitheater. You move to the lesser-known Mardi Himal trek after a glimpse of the enormity of Annapurna Sanctuary. The best-kept best secret puts you in front of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and the whole Annapurna range from another perspective. It is an unadulterated mixture of villages in the countryside and serene, untouched landscapes.
The Annapurna and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek offers trekkers a unique experience that blends adventure with the beauty of nature.
Total cultural immersion with villages and hamlets of various ecosystems within view on the way. The days with subtropical valleys and alpine meadows are a new experience every day. The merging of the two classic treks offers the ideal mix of the best of the known and the off-the-charts adventure.
This is the best Himalaya trek that offers cultural richness blended with physical challenge, giving trekkers an ultimate experience in Nepal’s optimum mountain scenery. The trek’s itinerary is designed with gradual acclimatization and alternating between the best scenic lookout points and cultural encounters.
Annapurna and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Combined Trek Highlights
- Two Base Camps in One Trek: Have both Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) crossed off your bucket list on a single trek
- 360-Degree Mountain Panoramas: Be mesmerized by breathtaking 360-degree wide-angle panoramas of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, Gangapurna, and Dhaulagiri peaks
- Traditional Villages Cultural Immersion: Overnight at traditional Gurung villages like Landruk, Sinuwa, and Chhomrong with locals’ warm hospitality
- Range of Ecosystem Trek: Subtropical Forest, rhododendron forest, bamboo forest, and alpine meadows can be seen during the trek.
- Less Visited Mardi Himal Trail: Enjoy peaceful trekking hours on the peaceful off-the-beaten-path trail with fewer fellow travelers and untamed wilderness
- Annapurna Sanctuary Trek: Trek to the mythical glacial amphitheater under the shadow of colossal 8,000-meter giants
- Suspension Bridge Crossings: Trek over a series of stunning suspension bridges hanging high above foaming mountain rivers and bottomless gorges
- Cultural Experiential Stay: Overnight stay in basic mountain huts under village hospitality and local cuisine
- Wildlife and Flora Experience: Watch Himalayan birds, langur monkeys, and wildflowers during trekking
- Professional Guide Accompaniment: Trek with local professional guides for security protection and cultural sensitivity
Why combine the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp in one Trekking
- Most Mountain View: The two treks together offer two starkly different perspectives of the same series of mountains, which offer the most diversity in both treks.
- Hidden Treasure Trek: Annapurna Base Camp is renowned worldwide, whereas Mardi Himal is a lesser-known treasure offering closer access to the mountains.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience the colorful village life, together with old traditions, by walking through scenic traditional villages on both treks.
- Photographic Paradise: Stunning eye-level panorama of Machapuchare and Annapurna peak summits from over one angle, not possible with independent treks.
- Variety of Physical Challenge: The twin offers contrasting terrain and elevation profile, and thus, the variation in the trekking experience.
- Saving Time: The two-trekking experience saves time since it includes the two prominent sites at once.
- Savings in Cost: It is relatively cheaper to get around the two-trek experience in terms of transport, guide, and permits.
- Weather Flexibility: Since there are two alternative routes, there is always a choice if the weather for any part of the trail is not good.
Combined Itinerary for Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
- Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
- Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m / 2,697ft) – 6-7 hours
- Day 3: Drive to Jhinu, trek to Sinuwa (2,340m / 7,677ft) – 6-7 Hours
- Day 4: Sinuwa to Deurali Trek (3,230m / 10,597ft) – 6-7 Hours
- Day 5: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp from Deurali (4,130m / 13,549ft) – 4-5 hours
- Day 6: Trek from ABC to Bamboo (2,310m / 7,579ft) – 6-7 Hours
- Day 7: Hike from Bamboo to Landruk (1,565m / 5,135ft) – 5-6 Hours
- Day 8: Trek from Landruk to Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,520m / 8,268ft) – 5-6 Hours
- Day 9: Low Camp to High Camp Trek (3,580m / 11,745ft) – 4-5 Hours
- Day 10: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and return to Low Camp (2,520m / 8,268ft) – 6-7 Hours
- Day 11: Low Camp to Siding, then drive to Pokhara (822m / 2,697ft) – 5-6 Hours
- Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) – 6-7 Hours
- Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu or Optional Trips
Detailed Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Day 1: Arrive at Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)
Dinner
3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu
You arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport to begin your Himalayan trek. We welcome you with traditional khada scarves. Upon getting done with immigration formalities, you would be escorted to your cozy hotel in the heart of the Kathmandu district, Thamel.
Spend the evening walking on the congested streets of Thamel. Explore local gear shops for some last-minute trekking gear. Your trekking guide receives a complete briefing of what is coming down the road. Indulge in a traditional Nepali dinner of dal bhat, the locally eaten staple dish that will acclimate your taste buds to the trek. Experience the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu through its bazaar-laced markets.
From prayer flags to handmade local souvenirs, everything is available for sale from the vendors. At dusk, streets are perfumed with the aroma of local street food and folk music. Unwind and prepare both body and mind for the upcoming grand tour. Savor local food such as momos and lassi while engaging in cordial meetings with friendly locals who never shy away from advising on their lovely nation.
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m / 2,697ft) - 6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Morning drives out of Kathmandu trace the contours of Nepal’s stunning Middle Hills. The 200-kilometer drive is filled with rolling hills of emerald paddies, postcard villages, and far-off snow-capped peaks. Your tourist bus glides along the Prithvi Highway, one of Nepal’s finest motorable roads.
Travel through dramatic Gurung and Magar villages where folks live by the same ancient farming methods. See rice terraces on the hillside resembling colossal staircases. Lunch at local eateries with fresh fish from the river and Nepali treats. Along the way, your constant companion is the emerald water of the Trishuli River.
Arrive in Pokhara by afternoon, the adventure capital of Nepal, on crystal Phewa Lake. Stay in your lakeside resort with the view-filled surroundings of the Annapurna range. Sunset colors during a leisurely evening stroll by Phewa Lake are simply breathtaking.
A tranquil lake experience can be had with boat excursions for enthusiasts. Radiant pure mountain air and lovely reflections of the mountains in the lake are simply great shots. Fish curry houses along the lakeside and other local cuisine, such as Thakal, give the surroundings a beautiful addition to tranquility.
Day 3: Drive to Jhinu, trek to Sinuwa (2,340m / 7,677ft) - 6-7 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in Sinuwa
This morning drove on mountain roads from Pokhara to Jhinu for 2.5 hours. Drive through typical Nepalese villages where rice paddies create e picturesque agricultural landscape. The scenery slowly evolves into subtropical valleys and then further into temperate forests as there is an increase in altitude.
Start your trek from Jhinu on good trails through green rhododendron forests. Cross suspension bridges over rushing mountain streams. The route passes through Chhomrong village with stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli peaks. Local tea houses are a godsend respite from masala tea.
Reach Sinuwa lodge in 4-5 hours of easy trekking. This picturesque village is located on a ridge with stunning views of the mountains. Evening offers unbroken skies, perfect for stargazing. Local music and the host culture of Gurungs in traditional form take place in teahouse homestays.
Village offers a great sunset view over Machapuchare peak, and local kids will be found around trekkers to exchange stories and practice English. Traditional slate-roofed stone houses that give a time-warp atmosphere make up the quintessential mountain village landscape.
Day 4: Sinuwa to Deurali Trek (3,230m / 10,597ft) - 6-7 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in Deurali
Begin ascent on hitherto uncleared bamboo poles on which sunbeams come through the cracks in the dense canopy. The route becomes increasingly steep as one continues energetically climbing. A combination of wildlife, such as multicolored Himalayan birds and spot langur monkey encountered playing in the highest reaches is Moving ahead of the village of Dovan, its residents live traditionally.
Slate-stoned houses with slate surfaces cover the hillside. Potato and barley growers are found at high altitudes. Women wear Gurung-style traditional attire when going out on an errand during the day. Arrive at Deurali after 6-7 hours of a hard but rewardingly scenic trek. It is a very remote terrain with total mountain solitude. Fresh mountain springs provide pure water.
Night temperatures drop to zero, and warm food and hot drinks are in order. The night sky is dotted with scores of unseen stars at lower altitudes. Drift off to the sound of mountain streams and trees whistling. Lodge staff enjoy regaling guests with tales of local myths and mountain history around the campfire.
Day 5: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp from Deurali (4,130m / 13,549ft) - 4-5 hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in ABC
An early morning start puts you in the mythical Annapurna Sanctuary. The trail takes you into a vast circle of monoliths more than 7,000 meters tall. Stand amazed at the drama of the landscape from jungle to alpine in hours.
Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Machapuchare create amazing 360-degree mountain scenery. Prayer flags wave high in the air, draping rainbow colors in untamed landscapes. Glacial moraines are a record of glacial advance history.
Travel to Annapurna Base Camp in 4-5 hours of continuous climbing in a net elevation. Share this unforgettable triumph with equally spirited fellow companions from all over the world. Warm accommodation and plain but nourishing food welcome you at the lodge.
Sunrise and sunset views at ABC are the world’s best mountain views. The chance to relax amidst such giant mountains gives a traveler such an immense sense of achievement and wonder. Two trekking groups will relax and drink tea for hours, soaking in the magnificence surrounding them in this heavenly mountain haven.
Day 6: Trek from ABC to Bamboo (2,310m / 7,579ft) - 6-7 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in Bamboo
Mornings are welcomed with breathtaking sunrise vistas of the Annapurna massif. Take a few hundred pictures of the golden summits before descending. The return trek shows the opposite view of the landscapes you climbed the previous day.
Descend quickly through a few climate zones. The alpine landscape converts back to forested ground. Your body delights in increasing oxygen levels as altitude decreases. Wooden bridges and rock staircases ease knee descent.
Arrive at Bamboo village after 6-7 hours of uniform descent. It is a forest village, with serene lodging amidst huge trees. Night descends with the night sounds of nightlife. Comfortable food and comfortable beds allow comfortable sleep after the weary struggle at the base camp.
Descend treats you to the luxuries of basking in the rich diversity of the ecosystems that you have traversed on your trek. The lodge owners usually organize party celebrations for such trekkers who managed to try the Bathe Se camp trek, and the night will be unforgettable.
Day 7: Hike from Bamboo to Landruk (1,565m / 5,135ft) - 5-6 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge or homestay in Landruk
Hike today is to the Mardi Himal trail system. Cross several suspension bridges over foamy rivers. The trail goes through stepped fields of crops such as millet, maize, and vegetables with ancient cultivation techniques.
Landruk village is authentic Gurung culture in all its splendor. The houses are made of stone with well-crafted wood for windows and doors. Women in their saris are seen dressing up in colourfully hued saris as they toil in fields. Stop by the school where pupils look forward to practicing English with trekkers en route.
Breathtaking sunrises and the Annapurna South and Machapuchare views fill the horizon. Organic vegetables from village plots find their way to teahouses in villages. Cultural evenings form part of the evenings with Gurung traditional dance and singing. Experience warm and genuine mountain hospitality to make your trek in Nepal a wonderful experience.
Local villagers normally present ancient myths and legends of the surrounding mountains, and local traditional handicrafts like woodcarving and weaving are presented by the local villagers. Peaceful mountain air and tranquil surroundings provide the best platform for resting after tiring days of hard trekking.
Day 8: Trek from Landruk to Forest Camp to Low Camp (2,520m / 8,268ft) - 5-6 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in Low Camp
Begin the Mardi Himal part of your double trekking adventure. Ascend through unspoiled forests where the rhododendrons bloom during the spring season. The trail becomes narrower, and that provides for more individualistic experiences in the mountains.
Thickly forested areas provide diverse Himalayan flora and fauna. See multi-colored pheasants, Himalayan goats, and other bird species. Ancient pine and oak forests create cathedral-like forest scenery. The crystal mountain water is in the form of natural springs on the trek.
Reach Low Camp within 5-6 hours of continuous climbing. This remote area provides complete solitude from crowded trekking routes. Simple but comfortable overnight lodge rooms. Evening approaches in total silence, apart from the sound of nature in the woods. Clear blue skies promise breathtaking starry displays.
The still atmosphere provides for deep sleep and contemplation of your journey up until now. There is local history on forest-medicinal plants and forest folklore usage provided by guides as temperatures plummet at night, and they need to be dressed in warm attire and hot drinks.
Day 9: Low Camp to High Camp Trek (3,580m / 11,745ft) - 4-5 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in High Camp
Hike up along the tree line on alpine meadow terrain. The views open stunningly with unobstructed mountain views. Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) stands in a prominent skyline location with its characteristic twin peaks. Prayer flags mark the course over high-altitude terrain.
Reach incredible heights requiring meticulous acclimatization protocols. Take many rest pauses, enjoying awesome vistas. Mountain weather can change extremely rapidly, and proper clothing becomes essential. Thin air makes each step strenuous, but it is incredibly rewarding.
Reach High Camp in 4 hours on a steady climb. This is a barren landscape with a stunning 360-degree view of mountains. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu peaks create wonderful backdrops. The sun tints the mountains golden in the late afternoon.
Expect very cold night temperatures. The high-altitude location provides the finest photographing landscapes of the entire Himalayas. Wind can be harsh at this altitude, and one must be thus prepared with warm shelter and hot foods to maintain oneself comfortable and secure.
Day 10: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m/14,764ft) and return to Low Camp (2,520m / 8,268ft) - 6-7 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodge in Low Camp
Early morning trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp is the trekking day’s highlight. Stunning close-up views of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and the whole Annapurna range is the reward for the early wake-up call. Return to High Camp for breakfast before descending.
Begin to descend back into forest conditions. Down path provides an interesting perspective on yesterday’s terrain. Your physiology receives back welcome higher oxygen levels. Photograph unique high-altitude flora and rocky formations.
Reach Low Camp after 3-4 hours of uninterrupted downhill walking. Return to forest conditions is warm security and shelter. Night’s sleep aids recovery from high-altitude exertion. Mark the success of having completed the demanding Mardi Himal portion of your twin trekking adventure.
The experience of being at the base camp leaves memories and photo finishes that are lifelong. Trekkers consider this viewpoint even more dramatic than Annapurna Base Camp due to the up-close view of Machapuchare’s dramatic north face.
Day 11: Low Camp to Siding, then drive to Pokhara (822m / 2,697ft) - 5-6 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Descend on forest roads to Siding village. Hike through common villages where villagers follow the twisting way of life of bygone ages. There are lovely farmlands formed by terraced fields. Cross suspension bridges over mountain streams to reach isolated valleys and mountains.
Reach Siding in 3-4 hours of gentle downhill trekking. Reach your vehicle for the journey back to Pokhara. The drive is around 2 hours via scenic mountain roads. Gradually descend to lower altitudes and more pleasant weather.
Arrive in the early afternoon at Pokhara to rest and celebrate. Sleep in comfortable lakeside rooms with a view. Celebration dinner in the evening is traditional Nepali food with cultural performance. Bask in the warmth of incredible achievements amidst the peaceful setting of Phewa Lake. Diversity of high-altitude mountain environments and subtropical climate of Pokhara provide a welcome respite. Soft beds and hot showers are comforts after nights of simple mountain austerity.
Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft) - 6-7 Hours
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu
Early morning departures from Pokhara bring you back through Nepal’s picturesque Middle Hills terrain. The return drive provides final glimpses of white-capped mountains and ethnic villages. Eat at local restaurants along the way for Nepali staples on the 6–7-hour drive.
Pass through villages typical of the area where locals wave goodbye to departing trekkers. Observe rural Nepal’s everyday life with agriculture and traditional industries. The Trishuli River accompanies your journey with its lush water flowing into the Ganges.
Arrive Kathmandu late afternoon. Overnight in comfortable hotel accommodation in Thamel district. Free evening time to shop for souvenirs and final discovery of Nepal’s capital city. An optional farewell dinner with trekking team members celebrates your outstanding Himalayan achievement.
Roam local market stalls for handcrafted traditional handicrafts, prayer flags, and trekking memorabilia, celebrating your experience. The busy streets of Kathmandu provide a graphic contrast to the serene mountain landscape just left behind.
Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu or Optional Trips
Breakfast
Breakfast at hotel and reminiscing on great trek moments. Shipping souvenirs and last-minute preparations for departure. Timely airport transfer without a hitch arranged by Bold Himalaya’s representative. Shopping in Thamel at the last minute.
A safe airport pick-up facility is provided by the representative of Bold Himalaya. If you want to extend your stay in Nepal, Bold Himalaya will book additional adventures. Select Chitwan Jungle Safari for jungle tours, Everest Mountain Flight for air scenery of the Himalayas, or Trishuli River Rafting for river rafting.
Finish the immigration procedures and take your outgoing international flight. Take beautiful memories of the mountains, culture, and hospitality of Nepal. Bold Himalaya can also book other treks and travels in Nepal in the coming days. Your Himalayan adventure has ended, but the memories live on forever.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- All ground transportation (including airport pick up/drop) by private tourist vehicles
- Three-star category hotel in the city(Pokhara, Kathmandu) in twin sharing bed with breakfast basis & standard trekking lodge in trekking route.
- Whole accommodations during trips
- Some necessary equivalents sleeping bag & Down jacket (if you need, return after trek)
- Full meals during trekking as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )
- First aid medicine item
- Annapurna Conservation Area Trekking permit & TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
- Necessary staff, guide their salary, accommodation, meals and their insurance, professional guide
- One special cultural show and farewell dinner program
- 1 Duffle Bag, 1 T-shirt, and Trip certificate
- Our government/Local taxes and official expenses
- Extra Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Dessert & bar bills
- Your international air ticket & travel insurance
- Tips for the trekking crew members
Good to Know
Reading this information will help you prepare better and enjoy a smoother trekking experience.
Food and Accommodation
Both the Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Mardi Himal Base Camp trek provide good, well-managed lodges with good accommodation along the trek. Basic teahouses provide basic dal bhat (lentils and rice) that provides the much-needed energy for the trek. Foreign food items such as noodles, pasta, fried rice, momos, and pancakes are available. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with fresh, locally grown vegetables are a common feature in all the lodges. Clhostel beds and blankets, shared latrines, and dining halls with a heater facility. Some of the high-altitude mountain lodges lack good basic facilities, but they provide hot meals and a warm night’s sleep.
Documents Required
Documents and permits required for the trek:
- TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System) – Mandatory for all trekkers
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Both treks
- Valid Passport – Valid for at least 6 months beyond the travel date
- Nepal Visa – Most countries’ tourist visa
- Travel Insurance Certificate – For high-altitude trek
- Emergency Contact Details – Foreign phone number and local phone number
- Medical Certificate – High-altitude trekking medical fitness certificate
- Passport Photos – 4-6 photocopies for permits and documents
All Season Packing List
Spring/Summer (March-September)
- Hiking boots and sandals
- Quick-drying shorts and trekking trousers
- Warming tops and T-shirts
- Light fleece jacket and rain jacket
- Waterproof rain trousers and a poncho
- Warm beanie and sun hat
- Sun sunglasses and sun cream (SPF 50+)
- Light sleeping bag and liner
Autumn/Winter (October-February)
- Insulated hill walking boots and warm socks
- Thermal base layers and thermal underwear
- Warm fleece and a heavy down jacket
- Waterproof shell trousers and jacket
- Warm walking trousers and thermal tights
- Thick gloves and warm headgear
- Buff or neck warmer
- Four-season sleeping bag rated -15°C
Items of Imperative Importance (All Seasons)
- Trekking poles and a headlamp
- Water bottle and water purification tablets
- Medicine and a first aid kit
- Power bank and chargers
- Toiletries and a small towel
- Trekking bag (40-50L) and daypack
Physical Fitness Level
The Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp combined trek requires a moderate to high physical fitness level. Trekkers are expected to be able to hike 5-7 hours a day on steep mountain trails with light daypacks. Cardiovascular exercises like hiking, cycling, or running for 2-3 months before the trek develop endurance. Leg strengthening exercises and stair climbing preparations condition muscles for ascending and descending walks. Pre-trek partial experience is desirable but not a requirement. Gradually increasing height makes the trek comfortable for adventure-seeking beginners with acclimatization.
Altitude Considerations
The maximum altitude reached is 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp during this combined trek. Acclimatization averts slow climb and rest day altitude sickness. It occurred as a headache, nausea, and sleepiness above 3,000 meters. Drink water, remain hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Confess in advance if pain is felt. Tour itinerary incorporates acclimatization days and progressive elevation increase. Descending to a low elevation offers respite early in the case of mounting symptoms. Almost everyone except a few trekkers acclimatizes to it with previous training and strict adherence to guide rules at Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek.
Internet and Charging Facility
Internet facilities in the form of Wi-Fi are available in most of the lodges of the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trekking routes at additional expense (200-500 NPR per day). Weather and altitude affect the speed of the connection. Power bank and camera charging can also be done at lodges for a very minimal charge (100-300 NPR per unit). Solar charging at high-altitude lodges may have had limited charging hours. Power banks and spare batteries will need to be carried for essential gear. The Internet will be very limited beyond 3,500 meters, so download maps offline beforehand and notify family members before moving to higher altitudes.
Porter and Guide Services
Employ porter-guides for Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp treks. Porters transport heavy bags (15kg per person maximum), and daypacks worn by trekkers are carried by them. Safety, orientation, and cultural induction are provided by local guides along the trail. Porter-guide teams carry out both services with one person for small-sized groups. Porters and guides are insured and equipped. Support by this enables trekkers to find trek free, and meanwhile generates respect for local employment and maintains cultural exchange with highlanders.
Group Size and Departure Options
The joined trek accommodates flexible group size departures ranging from solo travelers to 20+ traveler groups. Private group departures include tailored itineraries and personal attention by guides. Group departures provide economic options with fixed dates throughout the year. Small groups (2-6 individuals) provide personal experience with more flexibility. Large groups are ideally suited for social activity and cost sharing, but could be more leisurely paced. Individual travelers can join guide-led groups or employ independent guides. Departure dates are available each month except during unfavorable weather. Prebooking 2-3 months in advance, we use space and planning time to our best advantage.
Insurance Requirements
Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trekking need a complete travel insurance policy:
- High Altitude Coverage – Should cover trekking up to 6,000 meters
- Helicopter Evacuation – Emergency evacuation from the isolated mountainous area
- Medical Treatment – Guard against altitude sickness and accidents
- Trip Cancellation – Weather or illness cancellation policy
- Personal Belongings – Coverage of lost or damaged trekking equipment
- Adventure Sports Coverage – Dangerous mountaineering and trekking adventure activities
- Repatriation Coverage – Evacuation home country of medical necessity
Weather and Climate Conditions
Weather and altitude are mixed in the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek. A subtropical climate with warm days and chilly nights is experienced at low elevations (1,000-2,500m). Temperate with cold mornings and nights are experienced at mid elevations (2,500-3,500m). A climate with cold temperatures and possible snow is experienced at higher altitudes (3,500 m+). Mornings are usually clear, while covering in the afternoons is not uncommon. Temperature decreases 6°C for each 1,000m vertical rise. Snow in areas above 3,000m and cold during winter and summer monsoon descend to lower areas. Be continuously monitoring the weather forecast and dress accordingly for unstable mountain weather.
Money and ATM Facilities
There are no ATMs on the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp treks. Carry enough Nepali rupees from Kathmandu or Pokhara before commencing trekking. Spend 3,000-5,000 NPR a day on food, lodges, and extras. Convert US dollars in big cities but not hill towns. Credit cards are not accepted at teahouses and thus must be paid for in cash. Small notes must be carried. Emergency funds should be kept aside from funds for expenses. Foreign bills of large denominations can be accepted by some camps at horror-story exchange rates.
Respect for Culture and Courtesy
The trek goes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages where respect and culture are paramount. Remove footwear at temples and villages, and dress conservatively in village society. Ask for permission to photograph people, particularly during religious ceremonies. Respect local tradition and culture on your Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trekking trip. Greet people using basic Nepali greetings such as “Namaste” and “Dhanyabad” (thank you). Avoid public displays of affection and indecent clothing. Give something back to the locals by purchasing local handicrafts and services. Join cultural performances and village festivals if duly invited.
Environmental Responsibility
Practice Leave No Trace on the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek. Carry reusable water bottles and never use single-use plastic during the trip. Use toilet facilities when available and never leave trails and camps littered. Trek on established trails to avoid causing erosion and fragile alpine vegetation. Keep wildlife respected by giving them space, and do not feed wildlife. Bath with biodegradable soap and recycle wastewater at the specified locations. Encourage eco-friendly lodges that support sustainable tourism. Take away all non-biodegradable trash and join in mountain conservation. Your responsible behavior ensures these wonderful mountains are preserved for generations to come.
Safety and Precautions in Emergency
Emergency services are available on the Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp treks. Helicopter rescue from Pokhara is also available in the event of a serious medical emergency. Satellite phones also provide the option of dialing emergency numbers through trained guides. There are also first-aid facilities in some of the bigger villages and health posts. Altitude sickness can be remedied only through immediate descent to lower altitudes. Helicopter evacuation insurance is an emergency requirement. Guides carry emergency communication devices and know evacuation procedures. Weather can act as a hindrance to rescue, so prevention is better than a cure in keeping trekkers safe.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
2. What are the best months for visiting Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek?
It can be done the whole year. However, October-December and March-May are ideal with perfect weather, peaceful conditions, and great mountain views.
3. How difficult is Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal combined trek?
It requires a moderate level of physical condition with 5-7 hours of walking every day on a challenging trail and the highest elevation of 4,500 meters.
4. What are ABC and Mardi Himal combined trek permits?
Both these treks in the Annapurna district require a TIMS card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
5. Is it possible for beginners to do Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp trek?
Fit and well-experienced trekkers can accomplish this trek with the help of experienced guides.
6. What is the accommodation for both trips?
Simple teahouses and lodges with simple beds, food, and simple facilities that are clean are found on both the treks.
7. How much does the ABC and Mardi Himal combination trek cost?
Depending on group size, level of service, and season, most are worth the cost as an all-inclusive package.
8. Does altitude sickness pose a problem with this combination trek?
Gradual acclimatization and gradual ascent day by day preclude chances of altitude sickness, highest point at 4,500 meters.
9. What do I take to Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal trek?
Trek boots, warm jacket, rain jacket, sleeping bag and altitude sickness tablets are the ones which are required to bring along.
10. Is there any ATM facility on the trekking route?
There is no ATM facility on the trekking route; draw an equal amount of Nepali rupees in advance in advance from Pokhara or Kathmandu.
11. Can I trek alone without a guide?
You may, but you shall be accompanied by experienced local guides who will also offer you additional protection, cultural sensitivity, and guidance through the harsh mountain landscape.
12. What is eaten during the trek?
Dal bhat, noodles, pasta, varieties of foreign food, veg, and non-veg foods are served at lodges.
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Be among the privileged few to trek the less-traveled Annapurna North...
Nepal Tour Packages
10 Days
Everest Base Camp 11 Days Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek 11 days Highlights Thrilling scenic flight to...
Nepal Tour Packages
11.0 Days
Save 30%
Everest Base Camp Luxury Lodge Trek
The Everest Base Camp Luxury Lodge Trek blends the raw adventure...
Nepal Tour Packages
15.0 Days
Annapurna Sanctuary Trek (ABC Trek) with Poon Hill
Hidden deep within the towering peaks of the Annapurna Massif lies...
Nepal Tour Packages
5 (4)
11 Days
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Manaslu Base Camp Trek
Somewhere deep in the hidden folds of the Himalayas, the Manaslu...
Nepal Tour Packages
13.0 Days
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Manaslu Circuit Trek
Are you ready for a journey that challenges your body, inspires...
Nepal Tour Packages
13.0 Days
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Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
Tucked away in the heart of the Annapurna region, the Mardi...
Nepal Tour Packages
5 (149)
9 Days
