Which is better Mardi Himal or Annapurna trek?

Between the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Mardi Himal you cannot call one journey “objectively better” than the other. Both of them offer breathtaking mountain views, cultural exploration and the opportunity to spot rare flora and fauna. So, the choice depends on your preferences and expectations for the journey. Trekkers often get confused about what to pick, given that they have the same trailhead and lie in the same region. It becomes easier to decide once you get clear distinctions between the two. With that, let’s delve deeper into what each trek offers.

Quick Snapshot of Both The Treks

Mardi Himal

• Duration: 5 days
• Distance: 40 to 50 kilometres
• Maximum altitude: 4,500 meters
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Average trekking hours per day: 4 to 6 hours
• Crowd: Less compared to Annapurna Base Camp
• Trail: Forest path, ascents and descents, stone stairs, and ridgelines
• Mountain views: Machhapuchhre (Fish-tail), Mardi, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna South

ABC

• Duration: 11 days
• Distance: 90 to 110 kilometres
• Maximum altitude: 4,130 meters
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Average trekking hours per day: 5 to 7 hours
• Crowd: More traffic compared to the Mardi Himal Trek
• Trail: Forest path, river valleys, terraced villages, forests, and glacier basins
• Mountain views: Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fish-tail), and Hiunchuli

Difficulty Level

Mardi Himal Difficulty

Trekking to Mardi Himal is moderately difficult. The primary challenging aspects of the journey are the high altitude and the changing terrain. Similarly, trekkers reach the maximum elevation of 4,500 meters at the Mardi Himal Base Camp itself. It can be physically straining to cross the steep stone stairs between Deurali and Forest Camp and Badal Danda to High Camp.

Additionally, the way to the viewpoint consists of narrow paths and sharp ridge walks. To complete this, trekkers should wear sturdy trekking boots and be careful with the footing. However, there are no technical sections, and it is completed in just 7 days. So, anyone with moderate fitness and stamina can opt for it.

ABC Difficulty

Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp is regarded as moderately difficult. However, when compared to Mardi, it is slightly more demanding. This is primarily because of the long duration, 11 days, and the steeper trails. So, even though its highest altitude (4,130 meters) is lower, the terrain may cause more physical exhaustion. The continuous stone stairs and ascents and descents between Ulleri, Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong add to the difficulty. However, ABC does not demand technical climbing skills either, so trekkers with reasonable fitness can complete it with ease.

Mardi Himal vs Annapurna Base Camp: Altitude and Acclimatization

Mardi Trek

The trek starts from Dhampus, located at an elevation of 1,640 meters. After that, trekkers reach Forest Camp (2,600 meters). Around this section, the initial signs of Acute Mountain Sickness, like headache, dizziness, and nausea, are common. Then the altitude reaches 3,600 meters at High Camp and 4,500 meters at the Mardi Base Camp. Trekkers may experience severe fatigue, loss of coordination, and shortness of breath.

Since it is a short trek, there are no dedicated acclimatization days, which may delay the physiological adjustments. Similarly, while descending to Pokhara via Siding village, trekkers lose about 1,460 meters of elevation in a single day. This section is extremely hard on the knees and the ankles, especially after accumulated fatigue from the earlier days. To prevent altitude sickness, maintain a slow and steady pace, ensuring a gradual altitude gain.

Annapurna Base Camp

The starting altitude of the trek is 2,012 meters at Ghandruk. Moving ahead, it increases to 2,335 meters at Bamboo, where trekkers may notice the early signs of AMS. After that, the trek advances to the Himalaya Hotel (2,920 meters) and finally to the base camp (4,130 meters). Given the longer duration and the gradual ascent profile of the journey, our bodies have enough time for adaptation.

However, steep paths and significant ascents and descents increase physical exhaustion. While this does not directly cause altitude sickness, it increases the risk and may amplify the signs. Similar to the Mardi Trek there are no dedicated rest days, so make sure to take enough breaks on the trail and avoid rapid elevation gain.

Note: Trekking agencies like Nepal Guide Treks happily design a customized itinerary with rest days at a trekker’s request for a safer journey.

Scenery, Mountain Views, and Wild Animals

Here is a complete breakdown of the scenic rewards during both treks to help you decide which looks more like your cup of tea.

Mardi Himal

Kande to Forest Camp

Trekkers can see lush green rhododendron, oak, and pine forests; different shades of blooming flowers are awe-striking in spring. Similarly, there are small streams, rivers, and occasional waterfalls. Guides and locals are seen transporting groceries and other supplies using mules. Additionally, trekkers may see bulbuls, drogons, cuckoos, and woodpeckers.

Forest Camp to Low Camp

This section of the trek provides the first-ever views of Mount Machhapuchhre, Mardi, and Hiunchuli. It is a transition zone between forest and alpine regions. Trekkers get a stunning sight of deep valleys below Low Camp. The common animals that can be spotted around this area are langur monkeys and Himalayan Tahr, along with birds, like blood pheasants, flycatchers, and laughing thrushes.

High Camp, Viewpoint, and Base Camp

Up-close views of Macchapuchre, Mardi, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and a distant glimpse of Annapurna I. Additionally, trekkers can see steep grassy slopes around High Camp. While trekking via the exposed ridges, the rolling hills appear majestic. The most commonly spotted animals in this region are the Himalayan Tahr. Among the birds, trekkers may see the yellow-billed choughs and snow pigeons.

Annapurna Base Camp

The Lower Section (Nayapul to Chhomrong)

Trekkers get to see the beautiful terraced farmlands and traditional Gurung villages and cross a few suspension bridges. Similarly, the fast-flowing Modi Khola (river) and numerous waterfalls, like those near Chhomrong and Sinuwa, add to the scenic rewards. When trekking through the forest paths, there are chances of spotting barking deer, langur monkeys, and mountain birds.

The Mid Section (Up to Deurali)

Terraced farms shift to dense rhododendron and bamboo forests and narrow gorges. Likewise, the Modi Khola appears narrower, and trekkers can also witness a few cliffside waterfalls. Some of the most common sightings include langur monkeys, barking deer, Himalayan black bears (rare), and Himalayan Tahr. This section also has various birds, so trekkers may see the Himalayan monal, woodpeckers, and blood pheasants.

The High Section (Machhapuchhre Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp)

Trekkers get a dramatic amphitheater of mountains as they remain surrounded by Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I and South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Additionally, they can also see breathtaking views of glacier moraines and glacial streams. Even though the wildlife sightings are rare, if luck is on your side, musk deer, yellow-billed chough, and Himalayan Tahr may be seen.

The Crowd

Mardi Himal Trek

Compared to the Annapurna Base Camp, it receives much less traffic, offering a quieter experience. Even during peak trekking season, it is relatively easier to get rooms in teahouses (early booking is recommended to avoid a last-minute rush). Given that it is a less commercial trekking route, it offers an authentic and raw Himalayan exploration. Trekkers get to enjoy unexploited vegetation, and the interaction with the locals also feels more personal. Similarly, the overall peaceful atmosphere allows trekkers to feel closer to nature and enjoy the walk.

ABC Trek

It is one of the most popular treks in Nepal, so a high number of trekkers from around the world visit every year. Thus, the Annapurna Base Camp is more crowded than Mardi Himal. During the peak trekking season, traffic increases significantly, often requiring booking accommodation in advance, especially for upgraded amenities. However, it has developed infrastructure, which allows the crowd to be well-managed. There may be congestion at the viewpoints, so it is recommended to start the trek early in the morning to avoid the crowd.

Cultural Experience

Both treks lie in the Annapurna region, so the cultural exploration may feel the same, especially in the beginning. The trekking routes pass through traditional Gurung and Magar communities. However, in the mid-regions of Annapurna Base Camp the villages are more populated, which offers deeper cultural insights.

Mardi Himal

• Gurung and Magar cultural experiences around Australian Camp and Deurali.
• Witness the terraced agricultural field and animal herding on the open lands and pastures.
• The trekking routes in the middle and upper regions have colorful prayer flags fluttering on the walls. This reflects the Tibetan-Buddhism practice of the locals.

Annapurna Base Camp

• Pass the Gurung and Magar villages, like Ghandruk, Sinuwa, and Chhomrong, and observe their day-to-day life.
• Trails are decorated with similar prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens. Additionally, trekkers can also visit the Ghandruk monastery (gompa) and other local gompas in Chhomrong.
• Observe the traditional stone houses, and get a glimpse of ancestral architecture.

Mardi Himal vs Annapurna Base Camp: Accommodation and Food

Both treks primarily offer teahouse accommodation but there is a difference in comfort, luxury, and availability. Trekkers get a twin-sharing room with simple beds, pillows, mattresses, and blankets. Similarly, there may be a small table or drawer; other than that, rooms are not furnished. Annapurna Base Camp has a better-developed network of lodges and teahouses.

Additionally, in villages like Ghandruk, Jhinu Danda, Landruk, and Chhomrong, trekkers can get private/semi-private rooms with attached bathrooms/toilets. Beyond Sinuwa they are mostly communal and located outside. On the other hand, there are typically no attached bathrooms along the Mardi Himal trail. There are limited teahouses from Forest Camp to High Camp that offer basic facilities only.

Food options are also very similar on both journeys. Trekkers are served a mix of simple Nepali meals. ABC teahouses offer a wider variety of Western foods compared to Mardi Himal.

Common food options

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables, pickles)
• Momo (veg, egg, chicken)
• Thukpa (noodle soup)
• Fried rice (veg, egg, chicken)
• Pasta (basic sauces)
• Pizza
• Sandwich
• Toast with jam, honey, or butter
• Tibetan bread
• Pancakes
• Porridge
• Different types of soups
• Potato dishes
• Eggs (boiled, fried, omelette)
• Black tea
• Milk tea
• Ginger tea
• Lemon tea

Additional food options on Annapurna Base Camp

• Burgers
• Spaghetti with more sauce options
• Spring rolls and fried snacks
• Apple pie and bakery-style desserts
• Yak cheese and cheese-based dishes
• Chapati or roti sets and wider options of curry
• Wider breakfast menus (toast sets, muesli with milk/curd)

Trekking Experience Required

Mardi

• No prior trekking experience is required
• Suitable for beginners with moderate fitness and stamina
• Trekkers should be comfortable with steeper and narrower exposed ridges
• Demands good balance and cardiovascular health, as the altitude gain is faster

Annapurna Base Camp

• It is not mandatory to have completed any treks before, but it can be beneficial
• Also, a beginner-friendly journey
• Requires higher stamina and endurance because the trek is longer, and the daily walk is also longer
• Comparatively more taxing on the knee and ankles because of the repeated ascents and descents.

Accessibility

Both Mardi Himal and Annapurna Base Camp start with a drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. After that, trekkers head to Dhampus for Mardi and Ghandruk for ABC on foot. The year-round accessibility differs slightly due to terrain, altitude, and weather.

Mardi Himal’s trailhead is located comparatively at a lower elevation, so even in winter or monsoon, it is accessible. Similarly, the trails in the middle and higher regions can be slippery and muddy in summer and have icy patches and snow in winter. However, it does not create any major hassle while trekking. Such conditions can be easily managed with the right gear, like sturdy boots and trekking poles or sticks.

Annapurna Base Camp’s trailhead, Ghandruk, can also be accessed at any time of the year. However, the middle and higher regions’ trekking routes are more sensitive to the changing weather. The area near the base camp can have temporary trail blockage due to snow accumulation in winter. So, trekkers are suggested to keep a few buffer days in their itinerary to accommodate such delays.

Cost Comparison

Trekking to Mardi Himal is much more affordable than trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp because of its duration. One takes only five days in total, while the other is 11 days long. Thus, the standard package cost for Mardi is $555 per person, and that of ABC is $1055 per person. Under this price, trekkers are provided basic food (three meals a day) and teahouse accommodation facilities. It also includes all the mandatory permits for the trek, an experienced and registered trekking guide, and transportation. So, trekkers do have to budget extra for their personal expenses during the journey.

For a single day on the trail, set aside $1 to $5 for Wi-Fi and $2 to $8 for a hot shower. Likewise, $1 to $3 for charging your electronics, and $5 to $10 is usually enough for snacks and drinks. It is a customary practice to tip the guide $10 to $15 per day and the porter $5 to $10. Therefore, for personal expenditure, budget about $250 to $300 for Mardi Himal and $500 to $600 for ABC.

Permits

For Mardi Himal as well as the Annapurna Base Camp, the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is mandatory. Similarly, it costs 3,000 Nepali rupees per entry per person and can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board office.

Note: If you trek via a registered travel agency, like the Nepal Guide Treks, they take care of the entire process of acquiring ACAP.

Mardi or ABC: What Is Better For Whom?

If you have a limited time frame, then Mardi is more suitable for you. Similarly, it is also a better option for budget-friendly trekkers and beginners looking to kickstart their Himalayan endeavor. On the other hand, those who want a relaxing and long journey in nature go for Annapurna Base Camp. Additionally, if you prefer added comfort and luxury even on the trail, this option suits you better. Both the treks are rewarding for Photographers, but prioritise Mardi for up-close frames of the mountains and ABC for varying terrain.

In short, Mardi is for → beginners, photographers, budget trekkers, and those with busy schedules.

ABC for → Long holidays, luxury on the trail and deeper cultural exploration

What Should You Pack?

Regardless of what you choose, Mardi or Annapurna Base Camp, the right gear allows for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. So, below is a comprehensive list of what to pack for these journeys.

Clothing

• Insulating inner layer
• Quick-drying base layer
• Fleece or down jackets
• Waterproof outer shell
• Comfortable trekking pants
• Synthetic gloves and socks
• Neck gaiter or buff (winter season)
• Shorts and T-shirts (for hot weather)
• Sun hat or beanie

Footwear

• Broken in trekking boots with a good grip
• Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
• Extra soles and laces

Trekking Gear

• Backpack
• Bag cover or poncho
• Duffel bag for porter
• Trekking poles or sticks
• Headlamp and some extra batteries
• Oral Hydration Salts (ORS)
• Compass or GPS
• Sleeping bag (especially for ABC during winter and early spring)
• Sun protection lotion and lip guard with SPF
• Water bottle and purifying tablets

Toiletries

• Travel-sized towels
• Biodegradable soap or bodywash
• Feminine hygiene products, like sanitary pads or tampons
• Quick-dry towel
• Tissue paper
• Wet tissue
• Hand sanitizer

First-Aid Kit

• Personal medication
• Pills for altitude sickness, like Diamox (make sure to consult with your doctor before taking it)
• Pain relief spray for twisted ankles or sprains
• Blister tape or moleskin
• Anti-leech ointment and anti-bug spray
• Common cold medicine
• Bandages

Documents and Money

• ACAP permit
• A photocopy of your passport
• Nepali rupees in cash
• Ziplock bags (especially in the rainy season)

Snacks

• Protein bar or energy bar
• Dried fruits or nuts
• Chocolates