The Mardi Himal Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek are two of the finest trekking places in Nepal. The Annapurna Region's two best trekking places attract abundant adventure seekers worldwide. Moreover, both journey delivers outstanding mountain vistas and remarkable trekking experiences with their unique charm. The Mardi Trek offers all-inclusive views of the whole Annapurna Ranges along the way to Mardi Base Camp. On the other hand, Annapurna Base Camp Trekking delivers the closest Panoramic views of Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Mt. Fishtail, Hiunshuli, and many more.
We, Mountain Eco Trails, operate these treks with the respective itineraries and services. To gain more information regarding these treks, you can contact us and we will clear all your doubts like itineraries, trekking gear, and what to expect on the particular trek.
Mardi Himal Trek: Hidden Beauty in Annapurna Region
Ornamented beautifully beneath the mysterious Mt. Fishtail (Macchapuchre), the Mardi Trek remains the hidden and untouched beauty of Annapurna. It is due to the Mardi Himal Trekking Route was opened in 2012. Since then, only a few travelers know about this trekking trail. The journey takes you near the Macchapuchre, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, and many other peaks. Likewise, it is a relatively short and easy trek from Pokhara, so both beginners and experienced trekkers can successfully do this trip.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek: An Iconic Journey Near to Annapurna Range
Meanwhile, Annapurna Base Camp Trek has been an iconic adventure for trekkers around the world for decades. This classic trail to base camp winds its pathway through the tranquil Gurung Community, rhododendron and Bamboo forests, and terrace fields, and leads near the Annapurna I.
The altitude of Mardi Himal Base Camp vs ABC
Mardi Himal Trek is a short trek, yet, will take you to an altitude of 4500 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, Annapurna Base Camp lies at 4130 meters above sea level. Even though the altitude of Mardi Himal Base Camp is higher than that of ABC, views are equally rewarding from both base camps.
Mardi Himal Trek Starting Point
The Mardi Himal Trek starts from either Phedi or Kande. To reach one of these places, you need to drive for half an hour from Pokhara. If your starting point is Phedi then the hike moves ahead to Pothana directly. Whereas, from Kande, the trek passes through the Australian Base Camp.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Starting Point
Just like Mardi Himal Trek, this ABC Trek also begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Phedi. However, the regular Annapurna Base Camp Trek 7 Days starts from Nayapul. It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Nayapul by drive.
Annapurna Trek Itinerary
Here we provide you with the best 7-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek itinerary.
Day 01: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Gandruk (1 hour 30 min. driver & 4 hours trek)
Day 02: Trek from Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170 meters, 5-6 hours)
Day 03: Trek from Chommrong to the Himalayas (3100 meters, 7-8 hours)
Day 04: Himalayas to MBC (3700 meters, 5-6 hours)
Day 05: Hike to ABC and Trek back to Dovan (2600 meters, 7-8 hours)
Day 06: Trek from Dovan to Chommrong (2170 meters, 6-7 hours)
Day 07: Trek from Chommrong to Jhinu and drive back to Pokhara in a Sharing Jeep. (5-6 hours)
Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Here is the most common 5-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary you can follow for this trek.
Day 01: Drive to Kande and Trek to Deurali (2000 meters, 5-6 hours)
Day 02: Trek from Deurali to Low Camp (2970 meters, 5-6 hours)
Day 03: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp (3500 meters, 4-5 hours)
Day 04: Trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to Bandal Danda (3200 meters, 7-8 hours)
Day 05: Bandal Danda to Siding via Low Camp and drive back to Pokhara (6-7 hours)
Mardi Trek Vs Annapurna Base Camp price
Mardi Himal Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek is somewhat similar in costs. The cost of both the treks depends on the service you want to take. The average Mardi Himal Trek costs between $499-$699. Whereas, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek costs between $599-$799. The costs normally include meals, accommodations, guide fees, permit costs, and government taxes. To know more about cost details, visit the respective 5-day Mardi Trek and 7-day ABC Trek.
Which is better a trek, Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal?
Are you wondering which is better Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Mardi Himal Trek? Choosing between these two finest treks can be difficult. However, both of the treks have their features and uniqueness. Hence, you can pick one of them considering the several trekking aspects. If you are looking for a short and easy trek then choose Mardi Himal Trek. Likewise, the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek delivers Diverse Landscapes. Meanwhile, Mardi Trek gives you a natural experience along with mountains.
Annapurna Base Camp Hike is very popular and crowded in peak season compared to Mardi Trek. Hence, if you are a solitary lover then, Mardi is a better choice for you. However, the ABC Trekking route is more established and well-maintained. Likewise, the teahouses on the Mardi Himal Trekking route are more basic than on ABC. Although the views of the Himalayas are equally thrilling and mind-boggling. And lastly, the cultural experience is almost similar along the trail.
Best time to do ABC Trek vs Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek
You can experience both ABC and Mardi Himal Trek in four different seasons, i.e. Spring, Autumn, Winter, and Monsoon. However, we recommend doing these trips in the Spring and Autumn seasons only for a better experience. Likewise, these two months bring clear views with blue skies, amazing weather, great visibility, and excellent trekking conditions. Though, in the Winter the weather is not in good condition and the temperature drops below 0 degrees Celsius which makes trekking very difficult. Meanwhile, monsoon trekking is hard due to slippery trails, regular rainfall, and risky conditions.
FAQs
Can I do Mardi Himal Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek together?
Yes, you can do both combined treks within 10-12 Days.
What is the Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Distance?
The total hiking distance to Mardi Himal Base Camp is around 60 KM from Pokhara.
How difficult is the Mardi Himal Trek?
Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively easy to moderate trek with a good level of physical fitness.
How much does Mardi Himal Trek cost?
Mardi Himal Trek costs between $500-700 covering the permits, guide, meals, transportation, and accommodation.
How to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?
You can reach Pokhara by a 25-minute flight from Kathmandu or by driving for 8-10 hours through the countryside highway.
Takeaway from Mardi Himal Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Both the treks lie in the Annapurna Region with similar difficulty but offer unique trekking experiences. If you are a beginner yet want to get closer to the Himalayas, pick Mardi Himal Trek. Whereas, ABC Trekking is ideal if you want to classic trek with diverse landscapes, bio-diversity, and cultural experiences.
