Mardi Himal Trek Cost: Complete 9 Days Budget, Fees, and Money Saving Tips

Are you planning for the Mardi Himal Trek and wondering how much it costs? No matter if you are a budget traveler or want to spend for the best comfort, this Mardi Himal Trek Cost guide will help you plan your perfect adventure to the Himalayas. This cost guide breaks down the complete Mardi Himal Trek Price per person to help you budget your travel for a spectacular and affordable experience in the mountains. Whether you are looking for the Mardi Himal Trek Cost from Pokhara or a complete package, our detailed analysis covers your every expense during the journey.

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is becoming increasingly popular among budget travelers and conscious trekkers as it offers world-class mountain views at a fraction of the cost you would spend elsewhere, like the ABC Trek or Everest Trek. With our 9-day Mardi Trek Itinerary, this detailed guide covers everything from transportation, food, Mardi permit, accommodation, guide and porter fees, to tips on how to save money.

Key Cost Factors of Mardi Himal Trek

The Standard 11-day package from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Mardi Himal Trek begins from $700 per person. The Mardi Himal Trek Price can be reduced and also tailored if you are traveling on a budget. The price also varies significantly based on the following factors:

• Duration of the Trek
• Group size (Larger group means lower per-person cost)
• Season Selection (Peak Season or Off Season)
• Service Expected (Budget and Luxury Options available)
• Starting Point (Kathmandu or Pokhara)

How much does the Mardi Himal Trek Cost?

Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and budget-friendly treks in Nepal. It is also considered one of the short treks in Nepal. The major costs include Porter and Guide Cost, Mardi Permit Cost, Transportation Cost, and Food Cost. Accommodation Cost and other additional costs.

What’s Included in the Mardi Himal Trek Package?

If you plan your Mardi Himal Trek from a registered trekking agency, here’s typically what’s included:

• All necessary Mardi permits, like ACAP, TIMS, and paperwork.
• Pick-up and drop-off service from a private car(Airport/Hotel)
• Trekking Map
• All ground transportation
• Guide and Porter with Insurance and License
• Teahouse Accommodation
• Meals including Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Soup, Tea, or Coffee is also provided)
• First aid and emergency support

What’s Not Included in the Mardi Trek Package?

• Unforeseen delay and emergency expenses
• Personal Accident Insurance or Helicopter Rescue
• Alcohol, Hot and Cold drinks except those mentioned
• Tips, gifts, and souvenirs
• Personal Expenses
• International Flights
• Anything not included in the inclusion

Total Estimated Cost of Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek (9 Days)

The costs and expenses of the Mardi Himal Trek mentioned below are the estimated costs and may vary for different preferences and can be tailored as per need, if possible.

Note: The cost mentioned above doesn’t include international flights and personal expenses.

Permit Cost for Mardi Trek

Understanding Mardi permit costs is essential for accurate budgeting. The Mardi Himal Base Camp trek requires two mandatory permits, with costs varying based on nationality and group status.

TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)

The TIMS card is mandatory for all Nepal trekking activities and serves as a safety tracking mechanism. It varies for SAARC nationals and foreign tourists.

• NPR 2000 for Individual Trekker and Foreign Nationals
• NPR 1000 for Group Trekkers and SAARC Nationals

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The Mardi Himal Base Camp lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area, and the ACAP permit is required while traveling here.

• NPR 3000 for Foreigners
• NPR 1000 for SAARC Nationals
• NPR 100 for Nepali

This totals the Permit cost to $30-$40 for foreigners and comparatively lower for SAARC Nationals.

Note: Hiring a licensed guide is mandatory for trekking in Nepal.

Transportation Cost for Mardi Himal Trek

You will be traveling via ground transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu to the Trek Starting Point. The ground transportation can cost from $60-$120 and rises if you choose flights for the reason of comfort.

• The price of a tourist bus is from $10-$25, depending on the facilities.
• The transportation cost also includes airport and hotel transfers.
• The price to the starting point on a sharing basis can cost $20-$25.

Guide and Porter Cost for Mardi Trek

Hiring a porter is optional but also highly recommended, especially for days of traveling with a heavy backpack. However, hiring a professional guide is mandatory for safety purposes. Having a guide not only enhances safety but also the cultural experience and overall trek quality. The cost of a guide per day ranges from $20-$30, and the cost of a porter ranges from $22-$27 per day. However, on a sharing basis, this becomes a lot cheaper. Porter can usually carry up to 20 kgs.

Guide services include professional navigation and route planning. They are responsible for safety management and risk assessment. They are also aware of culture and local insights and can explain to you with their good communication skills. Their meals and accommodation are also covered in their daily rate. The guide also possesses emergency response capabilities. Hence, the 9-day cost ranges from $225- $270.

The porter comes with various benefits as they will carry your backpack up to 20 kg, reducing your physical strain. Having a porter lets you enjoy the scenery fully with enough time for photographs. Their meals and accommodation are also included in the per-day cost itself. The 9-day porter cost ranges from $198-$243.

Saving Tip: Many trekking agencies in Nepal offer guide and porter combined services at reduced rates even for small groups.

Note: Tips for the guide and porter are necessary.

Cost of Accommodation during the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek

Accommodation is also a significant cost of the Mardi Trek. The cost range varies for different options, from budget teahouses to premium lodges. Teahouses are available along the trail with basic facilities like a bed, shared bathrooms, and meals.

Urban Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara

For pre-trek and post-trek stays, the accommodation for standard lodges ranges from $50-$90 for 2 days. Luxury options are also available as per your needs. The accommodation is comfortable for resting after a long trip.

Accommodation during the Trek

While you are trekking in the mountains, there are lodges and teahouses available along the way. Rooms are usually shared with twin beds and shared bathrooms. Hot showers can be available with an additional fee. The facilities may be basic, but they are clean and usable. The cost of accommodation per day ranges from $15-$20, which means $135-$180 for 9 days.

Note: Some teahouses also offer free lodging if you dine there.

Food Cost during Mardi Himal Trek

Food is our basic need, and food expenses during Mardi Trek represent some portion of the budget. The food options range from Nepali cuisine to popular international dishes. The traditional Nepali meals include Dal Bhat (Rice and Lentils) with unlimited refills. These meals also include seasonal vegetables, pickles, and curry. Nepali food is perfect to sustain your trekking energy. Some lodges also offer international dishes like Pasta, Noodles, Dumplings, Pancakes, and more. Food cost also includes soups, tea, and coffee. The cost of food ranges from $135-$200, depending on the kind of food you prepare. The per-meal cost ranges from $5 to $10.

Additional Cost during Mardi Himal Trek

When you travel, you may spend extra. During this trip to the mountains as well, some of the additional costs that are not included in the package include:

• Tips for guides and porters are customary, ranging from $50-$80.
• Hot showers in the mountains may cost $1-$2 per use.
• Extra cost for charging may be around $1-$3 per use.
• In places where Wi-Fi is available, it may cost $2-$5 per day.
• Extra snacks and toiletries may cost $10-$20.
• Travel Insurance cost is also mandatory with the altitude coverage of up to 6000 meters.
• In case of emergencies, the Emergency Evacuation Cost is also an additional cost.

Travel Insurance Cost while Trekking

Trekking is not always certain; emergencies may arise even when precautions are taken. Travel Insurance is mandatory for high-altitude trekking and a crucial safety investment. Make sure your travel insurance includes:

• Altitude coverage up to 6000 metres.
• Medical Treatment and basic medical coverage
• Compensation for baggage loss and delay
• Emergency Evacuation up to $100000
• Trip Interruption Protection

Note: Payment is required upfront before rescue operations commence. Comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is essential.

Do I need to tip my Porter and Guide?

The answer is YES. Tipping your porter and guide on the Mardi Himal Trek is highly recommended and customary in Nepal. It is not forced or mandatory, but tips are a meaningful way to show appreciation for their hard work and support, especially in challenging terrains. A general practice is to tip around $5-$10 per day for your guide and $4-$7 per day for your porter. If you are trekking in a group, you can collect it and give it at the end of the trek, depending on your satisfaction with their service. Tipping not only supports them financially but also encourages them for excellent services. While planning your Mardi Himal Trek cost, make sure to allocate a fair tip.

How to save on the Mardi Himal Trek? Tips and Strategies

Trekking in Nepal doesn’t have to be expensive because it is one of the most budget-friendly places to travel. With smart planning, you can significantly reduce costs because you can trek Mardi Himal on a budget. Here are some of the best money-saving tips and strategies for budget-conscious trekkers:

• Opt for local transportation and shared jeeps instead of flights and private taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle, and instead of buying bottled water, you can refill it and use purification tablets to purify, saving $20-$30.
• Advance Booking Strategies also save quite a lot.
• Form a group and share guides and porters to significantly reduce cost.
• Choose Local Meals instead of expensive Western Dishes because Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour, and they come with refills!
• Avoid Peak trekking seasons as negotiating discounts is not easier.
• Stock up on snacks in Kathmandu and Pokhara, like energy bars, trail mix, and instant noodles, to avoid paying inflated prices in the mountains.
• Bring your own gear because renting adds to the cost, and buying is an investment.

Final Thoughts: Mardi Himal Trek Price

The Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region is one of the most budget-friendly treks in Nepal. It comes with stunning views of the mountain with an altitude of 4500m in a short duration, and also a peaceful trail. Whether you are on a tight budget or prefer the best comfort, this trek can be tailored to your needs. Book through popular trekking agencies like Mardi Himal Treks and Expeditions for authentic pricing and a good experience.

The Mardi Himal trek price per person is not just an amount but also an outstanding value for world-class Himalayan adventures. Consider trekking to Mardi Himal Base Camp as an investment with the guarantee of memories for a lifetime.

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FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can Mardi Trek be completed in 3 days?

Yes, it can be challenging, but Mardi Trek can be completed in 3 days. It can be possible for those with trekking experience and good physical fitness. However, it will be more like a rushed experience.

2. Is Mardi Trek risky?

No, Mardi Trek is generally considered safe. It can be completed safely with good planning and preparation. It is also one of the shortest yet rewarding treks in Nepal.

3. How much does the Mardi Himal Trek cost?

Mardi Himal Trekking Cost for a 9-day trek ranges from $700 to $1200. This price is for a standard package, while it can also be done on a budget with tailored itineraries.

4. Do I need a Permit for the Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek?

The Mardi Himal Permit consists of a TIMS Card and an ACAP, as it lies in the Annapurna Region. It is required to trek in the Mardi region and can be availed through trekking agencies in Nepal.

5. What is the difficulty level of Mardi Trek?

The difficulty level of Mardi Trek is considered easy to moderate. The highest altitude of the trek is 4500m for Mardi Himal Base Camp, which can be challenging to adapt to in a short duration.