Mardi Himal Trek Description

Mardi Himal Trek is a great journey through the diverse landscapes of Annapurna. It starts at Kande and ends at Sidding village, covering a distance of around 40 kilometers. It offers spectacular views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). The highest point of Mardi Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp at an altitude of 4,500 meters.

The Mardi trekking trail passes through thick rhododendron forests, alpine meadows at high altitude, and rock ridges. The toughest section of Mardi Himal Trek is from High Camp (3,580m) to Mardi Himal Base Camp. This section consists of steep and narrow trails with loose rocks and a few patches of snow. The Mardi trek is moderately difficult but requires good physical health.

 Mardi Himal Hiking begins with a jeep or car drive from Pokhara to Kande (1.5 hours). Day one from Kande is a 4-5 hour trek to Forest Camp (2,600m). Day two is 4-5 hours to Low Camp (2,970m). Day three is 3-4 hours to High Camp. Going up to Mardi Himal Base Camp and returning back to High Camp is about 6-7 hours. The final leg of the descent to Sidding is approximately 5-6 hours. From Sidding, a jeep drive (2.5-3 hours) returns to Pokhara. The entire Mardi Himal trek takes 4-5 days.

Basic tea house accommodations with simple beds and blankets are offered as accommodation in Mardi Himal Trek. The meals include dal bhat, noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. Hot drinks like tea and coffee are provided. The best months for Mardi Himal Trek are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). There are clear skies and pleasant temperatures during these periods.

Trekkers need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card as required permits for Mardi Himal Trek. A guide is not essential but recommended for safety. One can hire a porter to carry heavy bags. From Pokhara, travelers can return to Kathmandu by bus (6-8 hours) or by flight (30 minutes). Mardi Himal Trek is a rewarding experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

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How is Mardi Himal Trek in November?

Mardi Himal Trek in November offers the most favorable weather and unrestricted mountain views. The weather in November is sunny, with clear Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Mardi Himal (5,587m) views. The dry weather conditions make the trek comfortable and safe.

Day temperatures in Mardi Himal Trek in November are 10-15°C, and the nights drop to -5°C at higher elevations. The clear air heightens visibility, and the landscapes are stunning. The rhododendron and oak woods present a rainbow-colored contrast to the white summits.

Teahouses along the trail offer basic accommodation with hot meals. Dal Bhat, noodles, momo, and porridge are basic foods. Teahouses have most of them with comfortable dining rooms and fireplaces. Hot beverages and warm blankets keep the trekkers warm at night.

Travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu is possible by bus, jeep, or flight. Buses take 6-8 hours, whereas flights take 25 minutes. A jeep or taxi from Pokhara can reach Kande in 1.5 hours. Kande marks the start of the Mardi trek.

Mardi View Point (4,200m) offers excellent sunrise and sunset views. Mardi View Point Base Camp (4,500m) offers wide-angle views of the Annapurna range. The mountains appear closest and clearer in November.

Mardi Himal Trekking is the perfect trek for those seeking seclusion and nature. The routes are well marked, and the climate allows for a wonderful trekking experience. November is the best time to witness the virgin beauty of Mardi Himal.

Highlights of Mardi Himal Trek in November

November is one of the top months for the Mardi Himal Trek due to clear blue skies, pleasant temperatures and fantastic views of the mountains. Below are top five features of the trek in November:

1. Crystal Clear Panoramic Views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges

November provides stable weather and clear visibility and therefore is among the best months for panoramic views of the mountains.

From Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and High Camp (3,580m), you get up-close views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m).

Sunrises and sunsets paint the peaks golden, offering spectacular photography.

2. Comfortable Trekking Conditions with Crisp, Cool Air

Daytime temperatures in November range from 10°C to 15°C at lower elevations, and early morning and night temperatures can drop as low as -5°C to -10°C at High Camp and Base Camp.

The nice but not ice-cold ensures that the trek is more pleasant than during the extreme winter period (December-January).

Trails are dry and easy to walk on, unlike the monsoon season when the trails are muddy and slippery.

3. Stunning Autumnal Color in Rhododendron Forests

The trails between Forest Camp (2,600m) and Low Camp (2,970m) and beyond traverse scenic rhododendron forests, which are at the culmination of their autumn color change in November.

Red and yellow hues of maple and oak trees create landscapes with lovely color, which mixes very harmoniously against the blue sky and white top-peaks.

The forests are also home to Himalayan pheasants, langurs, and musk deer, and November is a great time for wildlife watching.

4. Stunning Ridge Walk from Low Camp to High Camp

One of the most thrilling part of the trek is the ridge walk from Low Camp to High Camp, where the trekkers traverse the top of the tree line.

In November, the sky remains crystal clear, with wide-ranging views of the whole Annapurna range.

The trek is less crowded than that to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) or Everest Base Camp (EBC), providing a more tranquil trekking experience.

5. Sunrise and Sunset Views from Vantage Points

The vantage points are best at High Camp (3,580m) and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), and they offer the most striking sunrise and sunset views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.

In November, the weather is crisp and dry and yields deep blue skies without haze, which will ensure that the sunrise moments are spectacular.

The golden color of sunrise illuminating the summit of Machhapuchhre is surely one of the most unforgettable moments of the trek.

 Mardi Himal trek in November is an experience not to miss, with perfect weather, dry trails, clear skies, and sweeping Himalayan vistas. With minimal crowd and comfortable temperatures, it is the finest off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in Nepal.

What is the weather like in Mardi Himal in November?

November is one of the finest times for Mardi Himal Trek, with wonderful trekking weather having clear blue skies, warm days, and spectacualr Annapurna mountain vistas. November falls under the autumn season, making this trek favorable in the month as weather is relatively stable, fewer rainy days, and optimal visibility.

At lower altitudes, such as Pokhara (822m), Landruk (1,565m), and Pothana (1,950m), the temperatures are relatively mild. The day temperature in Mardi Himal Trek in November is between 10°C and 20°C, and the night temperatures range about 5°C to 10°C. Weather conditions at these lower altitudes are generally trekker-friendly with cool mountain air and pleasant surroundings.

As the Mardi Himal Trekking trail goes up to Forest Camp (2,600m) and Low Camp (2,970m), the temperature is lower. It is around 5°C to 15°C in the daytime, but can dip to 0°C to 5°C by the night. 

Trekkers should be prepared for cool morning and nighttimes and thus warm clothes are a necessity. The forest trails at this altitude still retain some vegetation and provide a beautiful contrast with the blue horizon.

Greater elevation, as the trekkers move up to View Point (3,850m) and Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), temperatures in November become quite low. Day temperatures in Mardi Himal in November range from 0°C to 10°C, and the night temperatures can fall as low as -5°C to -10°C. It is thin and cold air, and the winds are extremely strong, hence that much more biting. Light snow fall in higher elevation is a possibility, especially towards the last part of November. There is no rainfall, but isolated snow showers are likely.

In order to acclimatize themselves for the Mardi Himal trek, trekkers must carry layers of clothing like thermal, fleece jacket, and a down jacket for the chilly nights. A water-proof jacket would be useful just in case of unexpected rain or snow. Good trekking shoes with tread are required for trekking on slippery or rocky terrain. A warm sleeping bag (rated -10°C or higher) is required for cold nights in the teahouses at high altitudes. Apart from this, sunscreen, glasses, and lip balm should be carried due to high UV rays at higher elevations.

November is a great month for trekking to Mardi Himal with good weather, reduced precipitation, and beautiful mountain vistas.

Is November a good time for Mardi Himal Trek?

 Mardi Himal  Trek in November is one of the best times to trek due to stable weather, blue skies, and breathtaking views of the mountains. In November, it is autumn's high season in Nepal, and this is when trekkers can experience pure air and clear visibility of Annapurna Himalaya. The best part of Mardi Himal in November includes great views of Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), and Mardi Himal (5,587m) itself. The Mardi Himal hike goes through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and steep ridges with stunning Himalayan views. The Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) provides a close view of the Annapurna range, and therefore it is a perfect destination for any trekker who wants a less popular but rewarding experience.

The Mardi trek starts at Phedi (1,130m) or Kande (1,770m) and passes through High Camp (3,580m), Low Camp (2,970m), Forest Camp (2,550m), and finally to Mardi Himal Base Camp. November offers dry and uniform conditions with daytime temperatures between 10-15°C and below-zero nights higher up. Teahouse lodges are readily available, but the high usage calls for advance booking. Trekkers can expect chilly mornings and evenings but relish the golden sunrise hues over the Himalayas. Mardi Himal trekking in November is a good option for those who want a combination of adventure, isolation, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.

What are the pros and cons of Mardi Himal Trek in November?

November is one of the best times of the year for Mardi Himal Trek. However, there are some disadvantages of Mardi Himal Trek in November. Let’s see advantages and disadvantages of Mardi Himal Trek in November one by one in detail.

Pros and Cons of Mardi Himal Trek in November

Mardi Himal Trek in November offers an excellent experience with crystal-clear mountain views, nice weather, and colorful trekking trails. This off-the-beaten-path trek in the Annapurna region takes you through lush rhododendron forests, high ridges, and stunning viewpoints. The trek reaches Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), offering panoramic views of Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m). The Mardi trail passes through Forest Camp (2,600m), Low Camp (2,970m), and High Camp (3,580m) to the base camp. Nevertheless, the Mardi Himal trek is also not without its advantages and disadvantages. Let's talk about the five primary advantages and disadvantages of Mardi Himal trekking in November.

Advantages of Mardi Himal Trek in November

1. Clear Mountain Views

November offers the best clear weather and picturesque mountain views along the entire trek. Trekkers have open views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli from Mardi Himal Base Camp. The golden morning lights on the top of Machhapuchhre are a momentous sight. The clear monsoon clouds give long-distance vistas from High Camp and Badal Danda (3,210m). Nature lovers and photographers capture the best panoramic scenes at sunrise and sunset. Compared to other months, November gives the most stable and breathtaking Himalayan views. This is the best time for clear, sharp, and unobstructed views of the snow-covered Annapurna range.

2. Best Weather for Trekking

November offers the most stable weather with temperate day temperatures and cold but tolerable nights. Day temperatures at Low Camp range from 10°C to 15°C, and High Camp receives around 5°C. Nights at Base Camp dip to -5°C, but the trekkers can be well-equipped. Unlike spring, the risk of early rain or snow is nil. Dry weather and clear blue skies make the journey safe and easy. Trekkers enjoy prolonged daylight hours from 10 to 11 hours to cover to and fro destinations. November sees just the ideal mix of cool mornings and agreeable afternoons for convenient trekking.

3. Excellent Trails

November's dryness ensures well-developed and good trails and trekking becomes easy and safe. Unlike monsoon months, there are no slippery or muddy trails, which reduce the risk of accidents. The Forest Camp to High Camp trails are well maintained, with wooden staircases in the steeper sections and good signs. The Badal Danda trail offers smooth, ridge walks with alpine grasslands. Trekkers can ascend comfortably without any risk of leeches, landslides, or washed-out trails. November provides the best trekking weather, enabling both first-time and experienced trekkers to enjoy a hassle-free trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

4. Availability of Tea Houses and Good Food

November sees better-equipped tea houses with fresh supplies of food on the trail. Low Camp, High Camp, and Badal Danda lodges offer a variety of meals like Dal Bhat, Thukpa, and Tibetan bread. Unlike off-season months, with the food options running low, November ensures proper resupply. Kitchens serve hot meals all day long, as needed for high-altitude hikes. Tea houses serve hot ginger tea and hot lemon tea, perfect for chilly mornings. Locals are welcoming and ease the trekker after hours of walking.

5. Moderate Crowds for a Peaceful Trek

November receives a moderate number of trekkers, and it is the best time for a mix of solitude and contact. Unlike Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp, Mardi Himal is relatively less crowded even in peak seasons even in November. The principal stops, such as Forest Camp and High Camp, have ample space for trekkers to unwind amidst nature. There is no such jamming in lodges so that one can sleep comfortably. Trekkers will still meet other travelers and share experiences respecting personal space. The serene environment along the Badal Danda ridge makes November an ideal time for anyone looking for a peaceful trekking experience.

Disadvantages of Mardi Himal Trek in November

1. Cold Nights and Early Mornings

Evenings at High Camp and Mardi Himal Base Camp get extremely cold during November, and mornings are tough. The temperature drops to -5°C to -10°C, making proper winter gear essential. Mornings at Base Camp are biting cold due to the wind chill factor. Trekkers need thermal layers, down jackets, gloves, and woolen caps to stay warm. Temperature management becomes a challenge owing to the variation between warm days and freezing nights. Compared to October, November has colder nights, and therefore early morning ascents become somewhat uncomfortable. Trekkers will need to make arrangements with good-quality sleeping bags and warming clothing in order to cope with dropping temperatures.

2. Lodges Peak Demand

November is in peak demand for lodges, especially High Camp and Low Camp, which makes early reservations mandatory. The prime tea houses get reserved well in advance, so latecomers will be hard-pressed for accommodation. The trekkers who do not reserve in advance will be forced to share or sleep alternately in the dining area. There are enough lodges, yet peak-season demand can lead to overbooking of popular stops. Independent trekkers may not be given solo rooms. Unlike months that are off-season, such as December, November requires pre-booking of accommodation to be able to enjoy the trekking experience without the inconvenience of last-minute hassle.

3.  Lack of availability of Transport

The greater tourist traffic in November increases the inconvenience in transport to Kande (1,770m) or Siding Village (1,750m). Pokhara buses and jeeps to Kande become filled quickly and some trekker has to wait for several hours. Return from Siding Village may require negotiation of jeep prices, which are expensive during season. Unlike in spring when vehicles are abundant, November requires careful planning to get there easily. Some trekkers opt to use the shorter route through Lwang Village to avoid full jeep return trips. Compared to non-seasonal months, competition to get a nice and affordable vehicle increases in November.

4. Dry and Dusty Trails

November's aridity creates dusty trails, especially along the track from Forest Camp to Low Camp. Trekkers and passing yaks kick up wind-blown dust, so breathing is uncomfortable. Open ridges in the vicinity of Badal Danda experience the gusts that suspend fine dust in the air. Trekkers with breathing conditions must wear masks or buffs for protection. Unlike monsoon months, when trails are new, November's dryness promotes more dust accumulation. The afternoon sun also dehydrates the trails, and trekking becomes somewhat uncomfortable. Though the view remains good, the dust irritates the throat and causes dehydration if trekkers do not drink sufficient water.

5. Less Greenery and No Flowering Rhododendrons

Mardi Himal  Trek in November lacks the greenery and flowering rhododendrons that give spring trekking its colorful appearance. The forests from Forest Camp to Low Camp appear dry, with leaves on the ground over the trails. Compared to March and April when rhododendron blossoms are found in red and pink hues, November offers less green scenery. The grass-covered slopes of Badal Danda turn golden-brown instead of green, and a different type of visual charm is presented. While mountain scenery remains breathtaking, nature lovers may feel the absence of the freshness of springtime. Compared to April's hued trails, November is arid and not as colorful despite its clear weather advantages.

November's Mardi Himal Trek offers great mountain views, excellent trekking conditions, and a peaceful experience. It also includes cold nights, high lodge demand, and dry trails that are not ideal. Nevertheless, November remains one of the best months to trek Mardi Himal, if the trekkers are properly equipped for the cold and dust. Necessary equipment, advance booking of lodges, and proper planning make it a comfortable trip. For trekkers who appreciate blue skies and vistas above green leaves, November is an ideal trekking month. Despite some disadvantages, the combination of stunning peaks, good trails, and hospitable people makes this trek an adventure worth taking.

Suggested Itinerary for Mardi Himal Trek in November

Day 1: Drive to Kande from Pokhara, and trek to Forest Camp (2,550m) via Australian Camp & Pothana. (1-hour drive, 6-7 hours trek, 12km)

Day 2: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3,580m) via Low Camp and Badal Danda. (6-7 hours trek, 10km)

Day 3: Trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and return to High Camp. (5-6 hours trek, 8km round trip)

Day 4: Trek from High Camp to Sidding (1,700m) and back drive to Pokhara. (5-6 hours trek, 10km; 2-hour drive)

Day 5: Drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu. (6-7 hours driving or 25 minutes by flight, 200km)

Preparations  for Mardi Himal Trek in November

Certain preparations are required for Mardi Himal Trek in November. The most important preparations for Mardi Himal Trek are discussed  below one by one. If you do the following preparations for Mardi Himal Trekking in November, you will be successful to conquer over Mardi Trek.

1. Acclimatize for Cold Climate & Temperature Dips

Late autumn in Nepal is November, meaning cold weather, especially in the higher elevations. By day, it is nice and warm (10–15°C), but by night, it dips below freezing, especially above Forest Camp (2,600m) and High Camp (3,580m). Wear layered clothing like a thermal bottom layer, a insulated jacket, and a windproof outer coat. Bring good-quality gloves, a woolen hat, and warm socks to prevent frostbite. A four-season sleeping bag is required for cold nights. The trail can also be windy, and hence a buff or scarf will protect from cold winds. November has clear weather, but a little snowfall cannot be excluded, especially at Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), and hence check the weather forecast before trekking.

2. Book Accommodation in Advance

November is peak season for trekking in Nepal, and the Mardi Himal trail is in demand. Teahouses along the way—Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and Badal Danda—are likely to fill up. Most lodges are first come, first served, so prebooking is recommended. If you don't prebook, you might end up sleeping in the dining room or with other travelers. Expect basic lodging—wooden huts with thin mattresses, shared toilets, and little hot water. Bring a sleeping bag liner for added warmth and cleanliness. Electricity is available, but charging might be extra, so take a power bank along. Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses, but it is weak at higher altitudes.

3. Plan Transport to & from Pokhara

Mardi Himal Trek starts from Kande or Phedi, both reachable from Pokhara. Since November is tourist season, book your flight or bus to Pokhara in advance. From Kathmandu to Pokhara, it takes 6–8 hours by tourist buses, and by flight it's only 30 minutes. From Pokhara, travel to Kande (1.5 hours) or Phedi (45 minutes) by private jeep or local bus. If you're starting from Sidhing when returning, there are local jeeps to Pokhara, but they get filled fast, so reserve a seat. As flights are likely to be full in November, book Kathmandu-Pokhara flights in advance if you prefer to fly.

4. Pack Light but Efficient

Since November is cold, take warm clothes but not heavy ones. A 40–50L backpack would be ideal. Essentials: thermal wear, down jacket, trekking pants, moisture-wicking shirts, hat, sunglasses, and rain jacket (there can be occasional rain showers). Good ankle-supported trekking boots are a must as trails are rocky and icy in patches. Carry trekking poles as support. As there are hardly any shops en route, carry personal medicines, water purification tablets, snacks, and a headlamp. Also, keep Nepali rupees in hand as there are no ATMs on the trek.

5. Acclimatize for the Trek

Though Mardi Himal is a moderate trek, you need to acclimatize well. The trail is steep and has long uphill & downhill treks. November's dry trails reduce the chances of slipping, but cold winds make it more exhausting to walk. Start cardio workouts (running, cycling, or stair climbing) 4–6 weeks before the trek. Strengthen your legs, core, and endurance with bodyweight workouts and go for long hikes carrying a heavy pack. This will ready your body for fluctuations in altitude and long walking durations.

6. Acclimatize & Drink Plenty of Water

While Mardi Himal is not as tall as Everest Base Camp, it is at 4,500m, and altitude sickness may still occur. Cold weather of November lowers dehydration, but drink 3–4 liters water per day still. Pack water purification tablets because bottled water is expensive and environment unfriendly. Move slowly, rest, and listen to the body. Nausea, dizziness, or headache is an indicator of altitude sickness—descent has to be taken if these aggravate. Taking an additional day at High Camp will help to acclimatize before an arrival at Mardi Himal Base Camp.

7. Get Trekking Permits in Advance

You require two permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. November is peak trekking time, so expect long lines at the Nepal Tourism Board in Pokhara or Kathmandu. To stay ahead of schedules, obtain permits a day in advance of your trek. With a guide, they can have permits arranged. Permits are inspected at Pothana Checkpoint, so don't leave them behind.

8. Employ a Guide or Porter if Necessary

Although the Mardi Himal trail is well-marked, a guide makes your trek more enjoyable with assistance in navigating, booking lodging, and crisis situations. The cost of a licensed guide is $25–$35 daily. If your backpack is overweight, engage the services of a porter ($20–$25 daily) to make your life easier. With November being busy, book the guides and porters in advance. Solo treks are not impossible, but with a guide, safety increases, cultural encounter is richer, and trek is more enjoyable.

9. Carry Adequate Cash for the Hike

Since there are no ATMs past Pokhara, bring enough Nepali rupees. Tea house prices are slightly greater in November due to demand. Budget $25–$35 a day for food, accommodation, and snacks. Electrical charging, Wi-Fi, and hot showers cost extra (NRs 200–500 per service), so carry small bills. Some lodges accept digital money in Pokhara, but on the hike, cash is king.

10. Monitor Weather Reports Prior to the Trek

November has clear blue skies and stable weather, but there may be cold fronts or snowfall at times, which may impact your trek, particularly close to High Camp and Base Camp. Monitor the weather report before embarking. Early morning provides the most spectacular views, and late afternoon is cloudy. As it becomes dark early (at 5:30 PM), begin the trek early every day to arrive at the destination safely.

By following these 10 steps of preparation, you will be well-prepared for the Mardi Himal Trek in November. The trek is worth it with stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli set amidst the glory of the Himalayan autumn.

Final Words

 Mardi Himal Trek in November is actually a once-in-a-lifetime experience with spectacular vistas of the Annapurna massif and untouched landscapes. The weather is usually clear in November, with chilly, cold mornings and evenings, a perfect time for trekking. Daytime temperatures are 10°C to 15°C at lower elevations and -5°C to -10°C close to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The skies are mostly clear with unobstructed panoramic vistas of the giant Himalayas, including Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South.

For hikers planning to ascend as far as Mardi Viewpoint and Mardi Himal Base Camp, preparation is crucial. Bring warm clothing, quality trek shoes, and layers that will keep you warm amidst the temperature drops. Acclimatization and hydration are key in order to avoid altitude sickness, especially at higher altitudes. Due to its panoramic scenery and less populated route compared to other routes, the Mardi Himal Trekking in November is highly advised for people who crave peace and unbeatable mountain views.