Mardi Himal Trek - Annapurna's Hidden Gem Adventure

Let me tell you why I love guiding travelers on this special trek. Unlike the crowded Everest and Annapurna routes, our Mardi Himal adventure feels like discovering Nepal’s best-kept secret. Just last season, I watched a group of f irst-time trekkers gasp when we rounded a bend and suddenly saw Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) towering before us - that’s the magic of this trail!

We begin in Pokhara, where I’ll meet you with a warm smile and a steaming cup of chiya (Nepali tea) before we drive to the trailhead. Those first steps through villages like Dhampus always remind me of my childhood - the scent of woodsmoke mixing with mountain air, the rhythmic sound of farmers working in terraced fields, and children giggling as they practice their "Hellos!" with trekkers.

As your guide, I can’t wait to show you my favorite spots:

● The ancient oak forest near Pothana where sunlight filters through the leaves like liquid gold ● That one perfect viewpoint where rhododendron blooms frame Annapurna South perfectly (I’ll take your photo there!) 

● The cozy teahouse in High Camp where the owner, my friend Gopal, makes the best garlic soup to help with altitude

What makes our Mardi Himal trek different? It’s the little things we’ve perfected over years:

 → We time each day’s walk to catch the best light for photos 

→ Know which teahouses have the warmest blankets on chilly nights 

→ Stop at hidden clearings most groups miss for quiet moments with the mountains

At 4,500m, when we reach Base Camp together, you’ll understand why I’ve spent 15 years guiding here. Last October, guest Mark from Australia told me, "I expected great views, but not this feeling of connection to every village and landscape." That’s what we aim for - more than a trek, but a true experience of Nepal’s heart.

The mountains are calling - let me show you why this trek captures mine. When you’re ready, my team and I will be here to make your Himalayan dream come true, the Vyas Trek way.

Best Seasons for Mardi Himal Trek 

 • Spring (March-May) - Nature's grand spectacle with vibrant rhododendron blooms painting the forests red and pink, offering perfect sunny days for photography and wildlife spotting (monkeys, birds), though trails are busier (book early) 
• Autumn (September-November) - Crystal-clear post-monsoon skies reveal breathtaking mountain vistas, combined with festive village energy during Dashain/Tihar celebrations and golden harvest scenes, with the advantage of fewer trekkers on peaceful trails 
• Winter (December-February) - A magical snow-dusted wonderland for adventurous souls seeking solitude (often empty trails), cozy teahouse stays with ginger tea warmth, though requiring serious cold-weather gear for freezing high-altitude nights 
• Monsoon (June-August) - Not recommended due to slippery trails, persistent  leeches, frequent landslides, and obscured mountain views behind constant clouds and rain

Why Choose Vyas Trek Nepal for this trek? 

1.  5-Star Rated Service 
● Consistently top-rated on TripAdvisor & Google (check our reviews!) 
● 98% customer satisfaction rate over 15+ years 
● Many trekkers return for multiple adventures with us 
2.  Local Connections That Matter 
● Family-run teahouses that treat you like family 
● Village elders who share stories you won't find in guidebooks 
● Reliable transport partners (no breakdowns or delays) 
3.  Service That Goes Beyond 
● Pokhara airport pickup with fresh juice/snacks 
● Free gear storage for items you don't need on trek 
● Emergency support 24/7 (we're locals - we know everyone!) 
4.  Honest Pricing 
● No hidden costs (we include what others charge extra for) 
● Flexible payment options 
● Best value for quality (not the cheapest, but the best) 
5.  Responsible Tourism 
● Fair wages for guides/porters 
● Eco-friendly practices (we carry out all waste) 
● Supports local schools along the trail 
6.  Personal Attention 
● Direct access to our team pre-trip (no call centers) 
● Small groups (max 8 people) for personalized experience 
● Owner-operated (you'll meet our family in Pokhara)

Preparation Guide for this Trek 

1. Permits & Documents - We handle all necessary permits (ACAP & TIMS) - just bring 2 passport photos and your passport copy. Don't forget travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking up to 4,500m. 
2. Fitness Training - Begin preparing 2-3 months prior with: 
● Daily 45-minute cardio (walking/jogging) 
● Strength exercises (squats, lunges, stair climbing) 
● Weekend practice hikes with a loaded backpack 
Pro Tip: The better you prepare, the more you'll enjoy the views! 
3. Essential Clothing - Pack smart layers: 
● Moisture-wicking base layers (merino wool ideal) 
● Insulating mid-layers (fleece/down jacket) 
● Waterproof/windproof outer shell 
● 4-5 pairs of quality trekking socks 
● Warm hat, gloves, and buff for cold nights 
4. Must-Have Gear - Your adventure toolkit: 
● Well-broken-in hiking boots (waterproof recommended) 
● Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (we can arrange rentals) 
● Headlamp with extra batteries 
● Two 1L water bottles or hydration bladder 
● Trekking poles (saves knees on descents) 
5. Health Preparation - Pack: 
● Personal medications + basic first aid (blister care, pain relievers) 
● Altitude medication (consult your doctor about Diamox) 
● Electrolyte tablets/solution 
● Sun protection (SPF 50+, lip balm, sunglasses) 
We Provide: Comprehensive first-aid kit + emergency oxygen 
6. Weather Preparedness - Expect: 
● Daytime temps: 10-15°C (perfect hiking weather) 
● Nighttime temps: -5 to 5°C (teahouses have blankets) 
● Possible sudden weather changes (pack accordingly) 
7. Our Full Support - Includes: 
● Porter service (carries 7kg of your 10kg allowance) 
● Daily health monitoring by experienced guides 
● Emergency evacuation plans 
● Pre-trek briefing in Pokhara 
8. Smart Packing Tips - From our experts: 
● Break in new boots thoroughly before trek 
● Use packing cubes/zips for organization 
● Bring favorite snacks (energy bars, chocolate) 
● Download offline content (limited connectivity) 
9. Final Checks - Before you go: 
● Photocopies of important documents 
● Extra camera batteries/power bank 
● Journal and pen for memories 
● Small duffel for items to leave in Pokhara

Looking for a faster way to witness the mountains? Soar above the Annapurna range with our Mardi Himal Helicopter Tour , a thrilling 1-hour flight offering breathtaking aerial views of the peaks.

🧭Alternative Tours & Packages

• Mardi Himal Trek – Annapurna’s Hidden Gem Adventure
  A lesser-traveled trekking route offering close-up views of Machapuchare and the Annapurna range, perfect for those seeking solitude and striking alpine beauty.
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
  A short yet rewarding trek known for its stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, ideal for beginners or those on a tight schedule.
• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  A classic Himalayan adventure leading to the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, this trek offers dramatic landscapes, glacier views, and rich cultural encounters.