ABC With Mardi Himal Trek Trip Info
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Kathmandu/Pokhara-Breakfast, Mountain - Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner
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Mardi Himal at 4200 M
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Included
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Kathmandu
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3-Star Hotel / Teahouses / Lodges
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spring and autumn.
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7
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75
Overview
This ABC With Mardi Himal Trek combines two of the most rewarding trekking routes in Nepal’s Annapurna region into one 13-day journey.
Instead of choosing between Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Mardi Himal, this itinerary takes you to both, beginning with the classic trail through the Modi Khola valley before crossing to the quieter Mardi Himal ridge.
The journey takes you from Pokhara through Jhinu Danda, Sinuwa, Deurali, Machhapuchhre Base Camp, and Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m, followed by a descent and a second ascent toward Mardi Himal’s upper viewpoint at around 4,200 m.
Along the way, you walk through rhododendron and bamboo forests, traditional Gurung settlements, alpine meadows, and high mountain landscapes with close views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the Annapurna range.
Annapurna Base Camp lies within the Annapurna Sanctuary, while Mardi Himal provides a quieter ridge experience beneath Machhapuchhre.
This combination is ideal for trekkers who want to experience both the iconic Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the scenic Mardi Himal Trek without making two separate trips.
Our Route
Kathmandu → Pokhara → Jhinu Danda → Sinuwa → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Rest Camp → High Camp → Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint → Badal Danda → Siding → Pokhara → Kathmandu
Accommodation on the ABC With Mardi Himal Trek
Accommodation is provided in teahouses and lodges during the trekking section, with 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara according to the current package.
Teahouses along the ABC route generally provide simple rooms, usually with beds and shared bathroom facilities. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, particularly around Annapurna Base Camp and High Camp.
Mardi Himal’s higher section also has simpler accommodation than Pokhara or the lower Annapurna villages.
Your accommodation is arranged according to the itinerary, so you do not need to spend the end of each trekking day looking for a room.
The current package also includes a sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag.
ABC With Mardi Himal Trek Highlights
- Combine Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal in one 13-day trekking itinerary.
- Reach Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m inside the Annapurna Sanctuary.
- Walk through the dramatic Modi Khola valley toward ABC.
- Pass through traditional Gurung villages and terraced hillsides.
- Walk through dense rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests.
- Experience the natural hot springs at Jhinu Danda.
- Spend the night close to the high mountains at Annapurna Base Camp.
- Watch the morning light reach Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
- Leave the busier ABC trail and climb toward the quieter Mardi Himal ridge.
- Reach the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint at approximately 4,200 m on the current itinerary.
- Enjoy close-up views of the distinctive Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
- Experience two very different trekking environments: the enclosed Annapurna Sanctuary and the open Mardi ridge.
- Finish the trek through Siding and return to Pokhara.
ABC With Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary
| Day | Route | Altitude | Walking/Driving |
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,400 m | Airport transfer |
| 2 | Kathmandu → Pokhara | 820 m | 7–8 hr drive |
| 3 | Pokhara → Jhinu Danda → Sinuwa | 2,280 m | 4–5 hr trek + drive |
| 4 | Sinuwa → Deurali | 3,210 m | 7–8 hr |
| 5 | Deurali → Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m | 4–5 hr |
| 6 | Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo | 2,310 m | 7–8 hr |
| 7 | Bamboo → Jhinu Danda | 1,780 m | 6–7 hr |
| 8 | Jhinu Danda → Rest Camp | 2,605 m | 4–5 hr |
| 9 | Rest Camp → High Camp | 3,540 m | 4–5 hr |
| 10 | High Camp → Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint → Badal Danda | 4,200 m / 3,300 m | 6–7 hr |
| 11 | Badal Danda → Siding → Pokhara | 1,700 m | 2–3 hr + drive |
| 12 | Pokhara → Kathmandu | 1,400 m | 7–8 hr drive |
| 13 | Final departure | — | Airport transfer |
Altitude: 1,400 m
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Activity: Airport transfer and trek briefing
Welcome to Nepal.
After arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport, an Igloo Himalaya Treks representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Once you have checked in, you can rest after your journey or explore the nearby streets of Thamel. Kathmandu is your starting point before heading toward the Annapurna region.
Later, your trekking team will brief you about the ABC With Mardi Himal Trek, including the route, walking schedule, altitude, accommodation, meals, packing requirements, and practical preparations.
Use the evening to organize your trekking equipment and get a good night's rest before the journey to Pokhara.
Altitude: 820 m
Driving: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, begin the journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus.
The road follows river valleys and winds through Nepal's middle hills, passing terraced farmland, roadside settlements, forests, and mountain scenery along the way.
Pokhara is the main gateway for trekking in the Annapurna region. The city sits beside Phewa Lake and offers views toward the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges on clear days.
After arriving, check into your hotel and use the evening to rest or take a short walk around Lakeside.
This is also a good opportunity to make any final preparations before beginning the trek the following morning.
Altitude: 2,280 m
Driving: Private vehicle/jeep
Walking: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Your trekking journey begins with a drive from Pokhara toward Jhinu Danda, the trailhead for this itinerary.
From Jhinu, the trail climbs through forest and traditional mountain settlements toward Sinuwa.
The route is already very different from the city environment of Pokhara. You begin walking through the lower Annapurna landscape, where terraced hillsides, forested slopes, stone steps, and village paths form much of the trail.
Sinuwa is a peaceful settlement above the Modi Khola valley and an important stop on the way toward Annapurna Base Camp.
After reaching Sinuwa, settle into your teahouse, enjoy dinner, and rest for the longer walking day ahead.
Altitude: 3,210 m
Walking: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Today you enter deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary route.
The trail passes through Bamboo, Dovan, and Himalaya as it follows the Modi Khola valley toward Deurali.
Much of the route is covered by dense vegetation, including bamboo and rhododendron forest. The trail includes numerous stone steps and sections of steady uphill walking.
As you gain altitude, the vegetation gradually becomes thinner and the surrounding cliffs and mountains become more prominent.
The final section leads toward Deurali at 3,210 m, where the landscape begins to feel distinctly alpine.
Because today's elevation gain is significant, maintain a comfortable pace and drink water regularly. There is no advantage in rushing this section.
Altitude: Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130 m
Walking: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Today is one of the main highlights of the entire journey.
You leave Deurali early and continue toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) before entering the final section of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The vegetation becomes increasingly sparse as the trail moves into the high alpine environment. The mountains also appear much closer.
From MBC, continue toward Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m.
Annapurna Base Camp is surrounded by enormous Himalayan peaks, creating the dramatic mountain amphitheater for which the sanctuary is famous. The Nepal Tourism Board identifies ABC at 4,130 m and highlights the surrounding Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli landscape.
Once you arrive, take time to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the mountain views.
The evening can be particularly memorable as the changing light falls across the surrounding peaks.
Altitude: 2,310 m
Walking: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Wake early if the weather is clear to see the mountains around Annapurna Base Camp in the morning light.
After breakfast, begin the long descent back through the Annapurna Sanctuary.
You retrace the trail toward Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya, and eventually Bamboo.
Although today's route follows familiar terrain, descending through the valley gives you a different perspective. The large mountain walls gradually give way to forests as you lose altitude.
The walking remains demanding because of the length of the descent and the many stone steps, so use trekking poles if you find them helpful.
After reaching Bamboo, settle in for a warm meal and a well-earned rest.
Altitude: 1,780 m
Walking: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Continue descending from Bamboo toward Jhinu Danda.
The trail passes through dense forest and mountain settlements as the valley becomes warmer and greener.
After several days at higher elevations, the return to lower altitude is noticeable. You will once again see thicker vegetation, terraced hillsides, and more signs of everyday village life.
Jhinu Danda is particularly well known for its natural hot springs near the Modi Khola.
Depending on the day's timing and local conditions, you can visit the hot springs and relax in the warm water.
It is a practical and enjoyable way to loosen tired muscles before starting the second part of your trek toward Mardi Himal.
Altitude: 2,605 m
Walking: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Today the route changes direction.
You leave the main ABC trail and begin climbing toward the Mardi Himal trekking route.
The trail gradually moves uphill through forested terrain. Compared with the busy sections of the Annapurna Base Camp route, the Mardi section generally has a quieter atmosphere.
As you climb, the forest begins to change and the views gradually open between the trees.
The day's destination is Rest Camp at around 2,605 m, where you spend the night before continuing toward the higher ridge.
Take the evening slowly because the following two days involve considerably more altitude gain.
Altitude: 3,540 m
Walking: 4–5 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
The trail continues upward through rhododendron and alpine vegetation toward High Camp.
As you gain elevation, the forest becomes thinner and the landscape opens onto the Mardi Himal ridge.
This is where the character of the trek changes again. Instead of walking primarily through a deep valley, you begin to experience wider mountain views from the ridge.
On clear days, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli become increasingly prominent.
High Camp is the highest overnight stop on the Mardi section of the current itinerary. Research on the route places High Camp around 3,550–3,580 m, with the upper viewpoint around 4,200 m.
Keep your warm clothing ready because temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Highest point: Approximately 4,200 m
Walking: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Teahouse
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
This is the main day of the Mardi Himal section.
Start early for the climb toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint, listed at approximately 4,200 m in the current itinerary.
The trail becomes more exposed as you leave the tree line behind. The surrounding landscape opens into a high alpine ridge with much wider views than the forest sections below.
The main attraction is Machhapuchhre, whose distinctive double summit dominates the view. You can also see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I and other peaks of the Annapurna range depending on weather and visibility.
The government tourism itinerary also lists the Mardi Himal Base Camp route reaching approximately 4,450 m, while independent route references distinguish the 4,200 m Upper Viewpoint from the higher 4,500 m base-camp area.
After spending time at the viewpoint, descend toward Badal Danda at around 3,300 m.
The descent provides a welcome change after the morning's climb and brings you back to a lower sleeping altitude.
Altitude: Siding – 1,700 m
Walking: 2–3 hours
Driving: Approximately 44 minutes according to the current package
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Your final trekking morning begins with a descent from Badal Danda toward Siding Village.
The trail passes back through forest and lower mountain terrain as the altitude drops.
Siding is a traditional village and the endpoint of the Mardi Himal section of this itinerary.
A vehicle will meet you in Siding for the drive back to Pokhara.
After checking into your hotel, enjoy a relaxed evening around Lakeside. After completing both Annapurna Base Camp and the Mardi Himal ridge, this is your chance to rest properly and enjoy the comfort of the city.
Altitude: Kathmandu – approximately 1,400 m
Driving: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, begin the drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
The route follows the highway through the hills and river valleys, providing a final look at Nepal's middle-hill landscape.
After arriving in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Nepal.
If you have time, you can explore Thamel, shop for souvenirs, or simply rest after completing the trek.
Activity: Airport transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Your ABC With Mardi Himal Trek comes to an end today.
After breakfast, an Igloo Himalaya Treks representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.
Thank you for trekking with us, and we hope to welcome you again on another Himalayan journey.
What We Provide / What Is Not Included?
Your ABC With Mardi Himal Trek package includes:
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu accommodation in a 3-star hotel
- Pokhara accommodation in a 3-star hotel
- Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Tourist bus transportation between Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Private vehicle/jeep from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda
- Return transportation from Siding to Pokhara
- Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
- Tea or coffee with meals
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- Porter service, generally one porter for two trekkers
- Sleeping bag
- Down jacket
- Trekking duffel bag
- Basic first-aid kit
- Applicable government taxes and service charges
The package does not include:
- International airfare
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel and trekking insurance
- Meals and drinks in Kathmandu and Pokhara outside the included breakfasts
- Bottled water and soft drinks
- Personal snacks
- Hot showers
- Device charging fees
- Personal expenses
- Additional accommodation or meals outside the itinerary
- Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
Frequently Asked Questions on ABC With Mardi Himal Trek
General
The ABC With Mardi Himal Trek is a combined Annapurna trekking itinerary that visits Annapurna Base Camp and the Mardi Himal upper ridge in one journey. The current package takes 13 days from arrival in Kathmandu to final departure.
The current itinerary reaches 4,130 m at Annapurna Base Camp and approximately 4,200 m at the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint. Some sources use approximately 4,500 m when referring to the higher Mardi Himal Base Camp area, so it is important to distinguish the upper viewpoint from the true base-camp area.
It is a moderate-to-challenging trek. The route is non-technical, but you should be prepared for 4–8 hours of walking on several days, steep stone steps, significant elevation gain, and high-altitude conditions.
The combined itinerary requires more overall walking because you complete the ABC section and then climb again toward Mardi Himal. The second ascent can feel demanding because it comes after several days of trekking.
Fit beginners can complete the trek with proper preparation, a sensible pace, and experienced guide support. However, it is not a casual hiking trip. Anyone new to high-altitude trekking should prepare with regular uphill and downhill walking before departure.
The current package includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Under current Nepal Tourism Board trekking provisions, the Mardi Himal and Poon Hill–ABC routes also fall under the routes requiring a licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS card.
For the latest official trekking requirements, check the Nepal Tourism Board's TIMS information before departure.
Yes. Current Nepal Tourism Board provisions list both Mardi Himal Trek and Poon Hill–ABC Trek among the routes requiring a licensed trekking guide and agency-issued TIMS card.
Your guide and porter service are included in this package.
March to May and September to November are generally the best seasons. Spring is especially attractive for rhododendron blooms, while autumn is popular for clearer skies and mountain visibility.
Yes, but winter conditions can be much colder and snow can affect higher sections of the route. You need suitable winter clothing, proper footwear, and flexible planning.
The trek is possible, but June to August brings more rain to the Annapurna region. Wet and slippery trails, leeches, landslides in some areas, and cloudy mountain views can make the experience more challenging.
Teahouses commonly serve dal bhat, momo, noodles, fried rice, soups, Tibetan bread, pancakes, pasta, and other simple meals. At higher elevations, choices become more limited.
Hot showers may be available at some teahouses for an additional fee, but availability varies by location. At higher elevations, facilities are more basic.
The current package follows a 13-day itinerary, but trekking plans can sometimes be adjusted depending on your available time, fitness, preferred transportation, and accommodation preferences.
If you have a particular requirement, consult with Igloo Himalaya Treks before booking so the team can discuss what is practical.
The two routes offer very different experiences.
ABC takes you into the Annapurna Sanctuary and places you among enormous mountain walls.
Mardi Himal takes you onto a high ridge with open views toward Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South.
Combining them allows you to experience both environments in one Nepal trekking holiday.
Map
Accommodation on the ABC With Mardi Himal Trek
Accommodation is provided in teahouses and lodges during the trekking section, with 3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara according to the current package.
Teahouses along the ABC route generally provide simple rooms, usually with beds and shared bathroom facilities. Facilities become more basic at higher elevations, particularly around Annapurna Base Camp and High Camp.
Mardi Himal’s higher section also has simpler accommodation than Pokhara or the lower Annapurna villages.
Your accommodation is arranged according to the itinerary, so you do not need to spend the end of each trekking day looking for a room.
The current package also includes a sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag.
Food and Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the trekking portion of the journey, with tea or coffee served with meals.
Typical teahouse food includes:
- Dal bhat
- Momo
- Noodles
- Fried rice
- Soup
- Tibetan bread
- Chapati
- Pancakes
- Pasta
- Simple vegetable and egg dishes
- Tea and coffee
Dal bhat is particularly popular with trekkers because it is filling and provides a practical source of energy for long walking days. Most teahouses can provide additional rice and lentils when available.
Food choices become more limited at higher elevations, so simple hot meals are often the most practical option.
If you have a specific food preference, dietary requirement, or equipment preference, you can consult with Igloo Himalaya Treks before the trek.
We will be happy to discuss your requirements and help arrange what is practical for your journey.
Permits and Documentation
The ABC With Mardi Himal Trek takes place within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers require the applicable conservation-area entry permit.
The National Trust for Nature Conservation identifies the Annapurna Conservation Area as Nepal’s largest protected area and notes its considerable biological and cultural diversity, including Gurung and Magar communities in the southern part of the region.
The current package includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The Nepal Tourism Board currently lists the Annapurna Conservation Area entry fee for foreign visitors at NPR 3,000 per person, although government fees can change and should be confirmed before departure.
The current trekking regulations also list Mardi Himal and Poon Hill–ABC among the Annapurna routes requiring a licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS card.
You do not need to arrange these trekking documents yourself. Igloo Himalaya Treks manages the required permits and documentation for you.
Is a Guide Required for the ABC With Mardi Himal Trek?
Yes. Under the current Nepal Tourism Board TIMS provisions, Mardi Himal and Poon Hill–ABC are among the Annapurna routes where trekkers are required to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide and carry an agency-issued TIMS card.
Your package includes an experienced, English-speaking and friendly trekking guide, along with porter service.
Your guide will not only assist with navigation, pacing, accommodation, and practical needs along the trail but will also explain the history, culture, traditions, landscapes, and special features of the places you visit.
This gives you a better understanding of the villages, monasteries, mountains, local communities, and natural surroundings rather than simply walking through them.
A local guide is particularly useful on a combined itinerary because the route changes from the ABC trail to the Mardi Himal section, while weather, trail conditions, and accommodation availability can vary between sections.
ABC With Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty
The ABC With Mardi Himal Trek is a moderate-to-challenging high-altitude trek.
You do not need technical mountaineering skills, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours on consecutive days.
The main factors that make this combination demanding are:
- Long trekking days
- Continuous uphill and downhill walking
- Numerous stone steps
- Elevation above 4,000 m
- The overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp
- The early climb toward the Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint
- Changing weather at higher elevations
- Repeating a climb after already completing the ABC section
The most demanding sections are generally:
Sinuwa → Deurali: Long uphill day with significant elevation gain.
Deurali → ABC: High-altitude ascent toward 4,130 m.
ABC → Bamboo: Long descent after reaching the highest overnight point.
High Camp → Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint: Steep high-altitude climb on an exposed ridge.
A reasonable level of fitness and regular walking or hiking before the trek will make the itinerary considerably more comfortable.
Altitude and Acclimatization
This itinerary reaches two significant high points:
- Annapurna Base Camp – 4,130 m
- Mardi Himal Upper Viewpoint – approximately 4,200 m
The route does not include a traditional rest day. Instead, it gains and loses altitude through the two trekking sections, with the ABC portion completed before descending to Jhinu Danda and starting the Mardi Himal ascent.
Because both sections reach above 4,000 m, altitude awareness is important.
Nepal Tourism Board advises trekkers to pay attention to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) above 2,500 m. Early symptoms can include headache, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. More serious symptoms require immediate attention and descent.
During the trek:
- Walk slowly, especially above 3,000 m.
- Drink enough clean water.
- Eat properly even if your appetite decreases.
- Avoid alcohol at high altitude.
- Tell your guide if you feel unwell.
- Do not continue ascending if significant altitude symptoms are developing.
Your guide will monitor your condition throughout the trek and help determine the safest response if you become unwell.
Best Time for ABC With Mardi Himal Trek
The best seasons for the ABC With Mardi Himal Trek are generally spring and autumn.
- Spring: March to May
Spring brings warmer conditions and blooming rhododendrons across the lower and middle sections of the Annapurna region.
March and April are particularly attractive if you want colorful forests combined with mountain views.
As May progresses, temperatures increase at lower elevations and afternoon clouds become more common as the monsoon approaches.
- Autumn: September to November
Autumn is one of the most popular trekking seasons in Nepal.
After the monsoon, the atmosphere generally becomes clearer, creating good conditions for mountain views.
October and November are particularly popular for ABC because of their generally stable weather and visibility.
Mardi Himal can also be busy during the main autumn season, but its ridge trail generally provides a different atmosphere from the established ABC route.
- Winter: December to February
Winter brings colder temperatures and the possibility of snow at higher elevations.
The trek remains possible with appropriate winter clothing and flexible planning, but conditions around ABC and the Mardi ridge can be significantly colder.
- Monsoon: June to August
The Annapurna region receives substantial rainfall during the monsoon.
Lower trails can become wet and slippery, while clouds can obscure the mountain views. Leeches may also be present in wet forest sections.
For the best combination of trail conditions, mountain visibility, and comfortable walking temperatures, spring and autumn remain the preferred seasons.
Trail Conditions
The ABC and Mardi Himal sections have noticeably different trail characteristics.
ABC section
Expect:
- Stone steps
- Forest trails
- Suspension bridges
- Bamboo forests
- River valleys
- Steady uphill sections
- Rocky mountain paths
The ABC trail has a well-established trekking infrastructure, but the stone steps can make some days physically demanding.
Mardi Himal section
The trail becomes more ridge-focused as you climb toward High Camp and the upper viewpoint.
Expect:
- Forest paths
- Steeper uphill sections
- Narrower ridge trails
- Alpine meadows
- Rocky sections
- More exposed terrain at higher elevations
Conditions can change with rain, snow, and seasonal weather, particularly around the upper Mardi section.
Your guide will adjust the pace and daily approach according to actual trail and weather conditions.
What to Pack
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking trekking shirts
- Thermal base layers
- Fleece jacket
- Warm down jacket
- Waterproof/windproof jacket
- Trekking trousers
- Warm socks
- Gloves
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat
- Comfortable trekking boots
Trekking gear
- Daypack
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Water purification method
- Power bank
- Small personal first-aid kit
Personal items
- Toiletries
- Quick-dry towel
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal medication
- Snacks or energy bars
- Camera/phone
- Cash in Nepali rupees
The Igloo Himalaya Treks packing guide recommends layering, trekking poles, at least a 2-liter hydration capacity, a headlamp, warm layers, waterproof protection, and appropriate footwear for Nepal’s changing mountain conditions.
The package provides a sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag, helping reduce the amount of specialized gear you need to bring from home.
If you are unsure about any trekking gear or have a particular preference, consult with Igloo Himalaya Treks before departure. We can guide you on what you actually need to bring and help arrange the necessary trekking essentials.
Emergency Rescue and Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for this trek and should cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
If an emergency occurs, our team can assist with evacuation coordination when medically necessary and operationally possible.
Rescue and evacuation costs remain the responsibility of the traveler and/or their insurance provider, subject to the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.
Before travelling, check your policy’s altitude limit and whether it covers helicopter evacuation from the Annapurna region.
First-Hand Guide Advice
Start early for ABC
The weather around high mountain areas can change during the day. Starting early gives you more time on the trail and often provides better morning visibility.
Do not rush the Deurali section
The climb toward Deurali takes you above 3,000 m. A steady pace is more useful than trying to reach the destination quickly.
Keep warm clothing accessible
At ABC and High Camp, temperatures can drop quickly after sunset and before sunrise. Keep your down jacket, gloves, hat, and warm layers where you can reach them easily.
Take the Mardi viewpoint seriously
The Mardi Himal section may look short on the map, but the climb from High Camp to the upper viewpoint is steep and reaches around 4,200 m. Start early and maintain a comfortable pace.
Tell your guide if something feels wrong
Do not hide symptoms because you are worried about slowing down the group. Headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, or breathing difficulties should be reported immediately at altitude.
Enjoy the two routes for what they are
ABC is about entering the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Mardi Himal is about climbing a quieter ridge with Machhapuchhre directly in front of you.
Trying to compare them too much can make you miss what makes each section special.
Why Choose Igloo Himalaya Treks?
The ABC With Mardi Himal Trek combines two routes, multiple transportation arrangements, different accommodation locations, and high-altitude trekking. Good organization matters because the itinerary changes from the ABC trail to the Mardi Himal ridge after Jhinu Danda.
Local Trekking Team
Igloo Himalaya Treks is a Nepal-based trekking company with a local team working in Nepal’s major Himalayan regions.
Licensed Guide
The package includes an experienced English-speaking trekking guide who accompanies you throughout the trekking section and provides practical support with navigation, pacing, accommodation, and altitude awareness.
Permits Arranged
We manage the required Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and trekking documentation before you enter the trail.
Accommodation Arranged
Your teahouse and hotel stays are arranged according to the itinerary, so you can concentrate on walking rather than searching for accommodation after each day’s trek.
Gear Support
The package includes a sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag, which are particularly useful for the colder nights at ABC and High Camp.
Combined Route Planning
Instead of organizing ABC and Mardi Himal separately, this package connects the two trekking experiences into one continuous journey.
If you have specific preferences regarding food, trekking equipment, accommodation, or other arrangements, you can consult with Igloo Himalaya Treks before your trek. We will be happy to discuss your requirements and help arrange what is practical for your journey.
Trek Information from Igloo Himalaya Treks
This itinerary is prepared by the trekking team at Igloo Himalaya Treks based on our experience organizing treks in the Annapurna region. Route details, transportation arrangements, accommodation, and permit requirements are reviewed before departure because conditions and government regulations can change between seasons.
Author: Surya Lama (Travel & Trekking Content Specialist)
Reviewed By: Surya Lama (Founder / CEO / Managing Director / Guide)
Other Recommended Treks by Igloo Himalaya
If you enjoy the combination of Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal, several other Annapurna trekking routes on Igloo Himalaya Treks may also suit your travel plans.
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 13 Days
If you want the classic ABC experience without the Mardi Himal section, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek follows a dedicated route into the Annapurna Sanctuary and reaches 4,130 m. It is a good choice if your main goal is to spend more of your trekking time around the traditional ABC route.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 13 Days
- Mardi Himal Trek – 9 Days
If you like the Mardi Himal portion of this combined journey but have less time, the Mardi Himal Trek is a shorter alternative focused on the forested ridge, High Camp, and upper viewpoint. Igloo’s dedicated itinerary is 9 days from Kathmandu.
- Ghorepani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek – 12 Days
For travelers who want another combination trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek adds Poon Hill’s famous sunrise viewpoint to the Mardi Himal experience, giving you another perspective of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Ghorepani Poon Hill with Mardi Himal Trek
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