Mardi Himal Trek in January

For years, the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek shouldered the influx of trekkers from across the globe. The route became the flag bearer of beautiful short trekking routes of Nepal. Therefore, tourist authorities opened the Mardi Himal Trek route. Ever since its opening, the trail has been attracting lots of trekkers both domestic and foreigners. The inquiries about the trek are so huge. This blogger felt the need of orthodox blog about the trek. Today’s blog is about the Mardi Himal Trek in January where this blogger explores the idea of doing the off season trekking in Annapurna.

What makes Mardi Himal Popular?

The astronomical rise of the Mardi Himal Trek is due to its tranquil nature. The trail traverses through the green lush forests via traditional cattle herds and open up to the wide ridge top offering canvas like scenery. The cascading hills seen below clouds and towering mountains closer than ever; it makes you believe that heaven exists in earth. Moreover, the trail has shorter camps with not much steep climbing sections. It is okay for all age group from kids to senior citizens. The smell of forests and the vast scenery of mountains and valleys make this route a photographer’s paradise.

When is the best time to do Mardi Himal Trek?

The best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal is during the months of spring season between March and May. During this time of the year, rhododendron blooms and the leaves are lush green. Trekkers can enjoy the sight of more than 8 to 10 different types of rhododendron while trekking in this route. The skies are clear and weather is stable during this time of the year. Take a note that autumn season (September – November) is also an ideal time to do the trek. However, this time of the year is the season of festivals in Nepal. Lots of Nepalese people embark on the trekking holiday during this time of the year. Expect crowded trail in autumn.

Is Mardi Himal Trek route crowded recently?

Yes, Mardi Himal Trek route is crowded by the Nepalese and foreign trekkers especially during the peak trekking season. The months of autumn season between September and November are often crowded by the Nepalese hikers. Therefore, if you prefer to have tranquil and solitude during this forest trekking trip, then choose the months of spring or winter season.

The blogger recently felt that some trekkers find it hard to trek when the trail is bustling by influx of many trekkers. The trail is known for its tranquility but over crowd can ruin its very existence. Therefore, the Mardi Himal Trek in January blog is necessary.

Which is the best alternative trek to the Mardi Himal Trekking?

If you are searching for an alternative trekking to the Mardi Himal Trek, then the Khopra Ridge Trek is the perfect fit. The journey of the Khopra Hill Trek is the community lodge trek through remote regions that offer ideal moments for tranquility and solitude.

Mardi Himal Trek in January

Now, let’s explore the idea of the Mardi Himal Trek in January. During this time of the year, Nepal is in mid winter season. Lots of snowfall happens especially above Rest Camp including in the Low Camp and High Camp. The trail is full of snow and can slippery. However, the scenery looks absolutely spectacular during the winter season than in other seasons. You need to plan meticulously for this epic trekking adventure. It is always nice to start a new year with the refreshing trekking trip of the Mardi Himal route.

Things to consider during Winter trekking in Mardi

Doing the Mardi Himal Trek in January can’t be easy. Yes, there are shorter overnight camps but the trail is covered by snow and it makes incredibly harder for trekkers to walk. Therefore, we highly recommend you to build up good physical fitness level for successful trekking in January. Usually, anyone can do this trek but the Mardi Himal Trek in January is completely different. It is not highly recommended to kids and elderly citizens.

Here are four things you must know before the Mardi Himal Trek in January or you can say before winter trekking.

Accommodation and Meals

Earlier, there used to be limited tea houses during the off season in the trail. Nowadays, the interest of trekkers in this route has increased and so the increase in the number of eateries & tea houses. These lodging establishments open throughout the year. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about the availability of accommodation and meals. All the tea houses have similar menu but price may vary. The food items range from local Nepalese dishes to popular international dishes.

Gear and Equipment

Warm winter clothes must be there in your packing list. Besides this, you must have rain coat, cap, trekking poles, sturdy hiking shoes, goggles, and gloves. The most important gear that you must have to do the Mardi Himal Trek in January is crampons. The trail is usually covered by snow during this time of the year. Using crampons can help you comfortably walk through snow.

Reserve Days

It is wise to keep at least 1 or 2 days as reserve days while doing the winter trekking. Having a reserve day allows trekkers to walk without any rush which is essential in the high altitude places. If it snows heavily, you may have to wait out the storms. Therefore, reserve day concept is for the safety and successful completion of the trek.

Trekking Guide

Always travel with the trekking guide if you are trekking in the winter season. There are many confusing sections inside the jungle where you may be lost in the wilderness. If the trail is covered by snow, then you need expert to navigate you to the safe place. Therefore, don’t attempt to do solo or independent Mardi Himal Trek in January.

Can I do Mardi Himal Trek in monsoon season?

Well, it is possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek in monsoon season (June – August). However, the view may be not as splendid as in other seasons. The skies are covered and heavy rainfall may ruin the trekking experiences. The trail is muddy and slippery. Leaches can be burden too. Therefore, this blogger strongly suggests you to avoid monsoon season for Mardi Himal Trek.

Please contact us if you are looking for the Mardi Himal Trek in January. You need proper help and experienced crew members to do safe and successful winter trekking in Nepal.