Which is better Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Mardi Himal Trek?

Trekking in Nepal is a journey that many adventurers dream of taking. Among the numerous trails that wind through the majestic mountains of Nepal, two stand out for their beauty, challenge, and unforgettable experiences: the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek. For many trekkers, choosing between the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek and the Mardi Himal Trek can feel like standing at a crossroads, each path offering a unique set of experiences.

Both treks promise breathtaking views, cultural immersion, and a sense of accomplishment, but they differ in terms of difficulty, scenery, crowd levels, and overall experience. So, "Which is better Annapurna Base Camp Trek or Mardi Himal Trek?" This article will delve into the details, providing you with the information needed to make the right choice for your next Himalayan adventure.

I will compare 8 various aspects of the treks, including trek altitude, trek difficulty, crowds and tranquility, trek distance and duration, food options, weather conditions, cultural experiences, and cost differences. By comparing these elements, I aim to help trekkers make informed decisions about which adventure aligns best with their preferences and abilities.

Comparing the Treks: Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal

Altitude

Mardi Himal Trek is slightly higher than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek reaches an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet) at the Annapurna Base Camp. Whereas the Mardi Himal Trek reaches a slightly higher altitude of 4,500 meters (14,764).

While Mardi Himal takes you higher, the elevation difference is not significantly drastic. For altitude sickness, the risks remain relatively the same.

Trek Difficulty

Mardi Himal is the better choice if you are a beginner or prefer a slightly easier trek. However, Annapurna Base Camp is a rewarding option if you are up for a challenge and want to push yourself.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is longer, typically spanning 7 to 12 days, but the ascent is more gradual, which allows trekkers to adjust to the altitude over time. The longer duration and steady pace make it easier for trekkers to manage their physical demands, offering more time for acclimatization and rest. The length of the trek requires considerable endurance, as you’ll be walking for several hours a day over many days, which can be exhausting even without particularly steep climbs. While the altitude at Annapurna Base Camp is slightly lower than Mardi Himal, the overall trek is physically draining due to the long duration and the tiring descents, particularly through steep stone steps in villages like Chhomrong and Jhinu Danda.

The Mardi Himal Trek is shorter and typically completed in 4 to 7 days. As you approach High Camp (3,580 meters) and head towards Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 meters), the trail becomes steep, and the terrain rugged, with narrow and rocky paths that require careful navigation. The intensity of this shorter trek can be quite demanding, as there is less time to rest and acclimatize. Additionally, the risk of altitude sickness is moderate, given the higher altitude reached in a shorter period.

Crowds and Tranquility

Mardi Himal is the better option if you prefer a quieter, more tranquil trekking experience.

ABC is one of the popular treks in Nepal due to which the ABC route can be crowded, especially during peak trekking seasons. The presence of other trekkers can also lead to busy teahouses and less solitude on the trail.

Mardi Himal is a quieter, less frequented trek. The fewer trekkers allow for a more peaceful experience, where you can enjoy the solitude and connect with nature without distractions.

Trek Distance and Duration

Mardi Himal Trek is a great option for trekkers with limited time or those looking for a quicker adventure.

The ABC trek typically takes 7 to 12 days, offering a longer, more immersive trekking experience. The duration allows more time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenery, but it also requires a greater time commitment.

The Mardi Himal Trek is shorter and usually completed in 5 to 7 days. This makes it an ideal choice for those with limited time or those looking for a shorter adventure without compromising on the experience.

Food Options

The food options are well and satisfactory on both the ABC and Mardi Himal Treks. You will find many lodges and teahouses throughout the trail.

The food options along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek are good. The lodges and teahouses offer a variety of meals, including pancakes and oatmeal for breakfast. For lunch and dinner, you can enjoy typical Nepali dishes like Dal-Bhat, porridge, lentil soup, and mixed vegetables. Many places also serve international cuisine, so you’ll have plenty of choices.

On the Mardi Himal Trek, there are many lodges and teahouses where trekkers can enjoy hot meals and refreshing tea. Just keep in mind that food prices increase as you climb higher. Common breakfast items include eggs, Tibetan dishes, and porridge. For lunch and dinner, you can choose from a menu that features fried noodles, Dal-Bhat with vegetables and lentil soup, Nepalese stew, and even Chinese and Italian dishes.

Overall, the food on both trekking trails is quite similar. Both regions serve traditional Nepali cuisine alongside a variety of international options like pizza, pasta, burgers, and meat dishes. So, whether you’re trekking to Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal, you can expect to find a wide range of tasty meals.

Weather Conditions

The ABC and Mardi Himal treks experience similar weather conditions as both treks lie in the Annapurna region.

The best time to trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the skies are clear, the temperatures are moderate, and the views are spectacular.

During spring, the trail is alive with blooming rhododendrons, adding a splash of color to both treks. In autumn, the post-monsoon skies reveal crisp, uninterrupted mountain views, making it the perfect time for photography.

Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain, making the trails slippery and prone to landslides, particularly on the Annapurna Base Camp route. However, Mardi Himal Trek can be slightly better in the monsoon since the trail has fewer muddy sections, though both are not ideal during this period.

For stable weather and clear views, stick to trekking in spring or autumn for both treks.

Cultural Experiences

For those interested in cultural experiences, Annapurna Base Camp Trek provides a richer and more immersive cultural journey.

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a more immersive and widespread cultural experience due to the larger number of villages and the diversity of ethnic groups you will encounter. From the moment you start your trek at Nayapul, you’ll pass through numerous bustling villages such as Ghandruk, Chhomrong, and Jhinu Danda, each rich in culture and traditions that have been shaped by centuries of history. One of the highlights of this trek is the village of Ghandruk, known for its well-preserved Gurung heritage.

The Mardi Himal Trek is ideal for those seeking a more personal, authentic cultural exchange in quieter villages. The remoteness of the trek allows for deeper connections with locals, and the opportunity to witness a way of life that remains relatively untouched by modern influences.

Cost Considerations

Food and Accommodations

While both treks have similar food and accommodation costs, the Mardi Himal Trek might be slightly cheaper with shorter trekking days than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Food and accommodation along the ABC trek are relatively more expensive due to more number of trekking days compared to the Mardi Himal. On average, accommodation costs range from NPR 500 to NPR 1,000 per night, depending on the season and the amenities provided. Meals (typically Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, and momos) cost around NPR 500 to NPR 800 per meal. As you ascend higher, prices tend to increase due to the difficulty of transporting supplies.

Mardi Himal Trek, being less crowded, offers slightly more affordable options. Accommodation costs range from NPR 400 to NPR 800 per night, with basic facilities in most teahouses. Meals are priced similarly to the ABC trek, ranging from NPR 500 to NPR 700 per meal.

Trekking Permits

Both treks require the same permits - ACAP and TIMS Card.

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit costs NPR 2,000 for foreign nationals, NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals, NPR 100 for Nepali citizens, and is free for a child below 10 years as a child discount.
2. Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: The permit costs NPR 2,000 for foreign nationals, NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals, and free for Nepali citizens.

Conclusion: Both treks require the same permits, so the costs are identical for Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal Trek.

Related Read: Annapurna Base Camp Trek Permits With Cost Details.

Transportation Cost

The transportation costs are similar for both treks up to Pokhara. However, local transportation costs to the trailheads are slightly lower for the Mardi Himal Trek, making it a more budget-friendly option in this aspect.

To start the ABC trek, most trekkers travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. A tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara costs around NPR 800 to NPR 1,500, while a domestic flight is generally priced at NPR 4,200 and may vary depending on the season. From Pokhara, you will take a local bus or jeep to Nayapul, costing around NPR 500 to NPR 1,000, and hiring a taxi costs more than NPR 3000.

The Mardi Himal Trek also starts from Pokhara, so the cost from Kathmandu to Pokhara remains the same as for the ABC trek. However, for Mardi Himal, trekkers typically start from Kande. The bus fare from Pokhara to Kande costs NPR 150 and hiring a taxi costs around NPR 2,000 to NPR 2,500.

Final Thoughts: Which Trek Should You Choose?

So, "Which trek is better?" Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences, fitness level, time availability, and what you hope to get out of the experience.

Choose Annapurna Base Camp Trek if you are looking for a challenging trek with iconic mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and a longer, more immersive adventure.

Choose Mardi Himal Trek if you prefer a quieter and budget-friendly trek with pristine natural beauty, a slightly easier route, and a shorter duration.

Both treks offer incredible experiences that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re standing at the foot of the mighty Annapurna or gazing up at the striking Machapuchare, the Himalayas never disappoint.