Hope this Langtang Trek Vs Mardi Himal Trek, Detail Comparison will help you to choose one of the best trekking route.
Langtang Trek, Langtang is a region in the Himalayas of Nepal bordering Tibet occupying over 70 glaciers of different sizes, Himal mountain ranges and high altitude lakes including Parvati Kund, Bhairavkunda and Dudhkunda and even most famous Gosainkunda with a surface area of 13,8ha, surface elevation of 14,370ft and water volume of 1,472,000m3. The native people’s expertise, dresses, traditionally-built stone house, and the beautiful carved wooden vestibule reflect their rich Himalayas culture and heritage. Most of the communities in this area are packed by Tamang and Tibetan origin.
Towards the south are Chimse Danda (rigid), crossed by Ganja La pass (5,122 m) and Jugal Himal culminating in Dorje Lakpa (6,989 m). Glaciers spawned by the slope of Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Lirung, and other peaks feed the Langtang Khola (river). Langtang River flows through the high, Langtang valley before emptying in a ridicule torrent into the Bhote Koshi River from a long, narrow debase at the west end of the valley. But many massive rivers flow south from Tibet cutting through the Himalaya chain, the Langtang Khola, a major tributary of the Trisuli Ganga, flows east to west across the grain of the country.
Mardi Himal trekking trail at an elevation of 4500m takes trekkers to the base camp of Mardi Himal offering an extraordinary view of the majestic Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu. It also offers a breathtaking view of blue glaciers of the Annapurna sanctuary. The location lies east of the Annapurna Base Camp in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This off-beaten trail, takes the trekkers away from the other busy trail through the forest of Rhododendron and Juniper and the pristine little settlements of Tamang and Gurung people, all the way up to the base of Mardi Himal. Camping every night, sleeping under the stars and the mighty Himalayas offer the utmost adventure to the trekkers.
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Main Highlights of Langtang Region Trek
- Opportunity to survey Langtang National Park (First Himalayan national park) established in 1976 holding a wide range of flora and fauna within the total domain of 1,710 km2.
- The superior moment for glimpsing well-known snow-capped peaks including Langtang Lirung (7245m), Dorji Lhakpa (6966m), Gang Chhenpo (6388m) and Yala peak (5700m).
- Fortune to explore more than 70 glaciers along with beautiful lakes of Langtang valley including Gosainkunda (4,380 m), Parvatikunda, Bhairavkunda, and Dudhkunda.
- Analysis of Tamang and Tibetan language along with a complicated lifestyle of individuals under development surely establishes tough and inflexible touch throughout Langtang.
- Opportunity to trek to various beautiful snowcap and valley destinations such as Ganesh Himal, Tsho Rolpa Lake Trek, Tashi Lapcha Pass Trek, Gosainkunda Lake Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Helambu Trek, Tamang Village Trek, etc
Main Highlights Of Mardi Himal
- Magnificent sunrise and sunset views from numerous viewpoints
- Gorgeous landscapes, local villages, farmlands, rice terraces, stunning hills and mountains, and colorful Rhododendron forests during spring
- Splendid views of Machhapuchhre Himal (6,993 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and the Annapurna South (7,010 m).
- Beautiful homestays and warm hospitality of the locals
- Chance to visit Mardi Himal Base Camp and the Mardi Himal High Camp
- Floral and faunal diversities in the region
- The socio-culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups
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The Classic Itinerary For Langtang Valley Trek and Mardi Himal Trek
Standard Outline Itinerary For Langtang Valley trek
Day 1: Arrival day:
Day 2: Kathmandu valley (1,300 m) (sightseeing):
Day 3: Kathmandu (1,300 m) to SyabruBesi (1,550 m):
Day 4: SyabruBesi (1,550 m) to Lama Hotel (2,450 m):
Day 5: Lama Hotel (2,450 m) to Langtang village (3,430 m):
Day 6: Langtang village (3,430 m) to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m):
Day 7: Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) (Acclimatization day):
Day 8: Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) to Lama Hotel (2,450 m):
Day 9: Lama Hotel (2,450 m) to SyabruBesi (1,550 m):
Day 10: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,300 m):
Standard Outline Itinerary For Mardi Himal Trek
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trek preparation. | Meal: B
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara – Altitude: 850m | Drive: 6/7hrs | Meal: B
Day 04: Pokhara to Phedi drive and Trek to Pothana – Altitude: 1970m | Drive: 40min | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Pothana to Forest Camp – Altitude: 2550m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Forest Camp to High Camp – Altitude: 3580 m | Trek: 6 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 07: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to High Camp – Altitude:4500 m | Trek: 6/7hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 08: High Camp to Siding Village – Altitude: 1850m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 09: Siding Village to Pokhara – Altitude: 850m | Trek: 2.5 hours | Drive:1 hour | Meal: BL
Day 10: Sightseeing and relaxing Pokhara. | Meal: B
Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. | Meal: B
Day 12: Departure day | Meal: B
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What to Expect from these Regions during the trek?
Langtang Trek
The trek in this region will offer a variety of Rhododendron, huge Bamboo forest, beautiful landscape, snow-capped mountains range and rich wildlife including Red Pandas. Following local trail upstream Bhote Koshi River through the ethnic Tamang villages, lush green forest and the widespread Langtang valley with a view of splendid mountains from all sides. One can retrace the trail to the Shin Gompa to a high plateau at the sacred lake Gosaikunda. The region offers the sunrise over a multitude of sparkly lakes of this holy site.
Mardi Himal Trek
This destination is identified as one of the hidden gems among untold Annapurna likewise walking trial is considered as the unbeatable path. It is perfect to encounter the brilliance of solitary ever snowcapped tops and the colossal chance of excellent cultural experience and wonder of Machhapuchhare Base Camp. The colorful and interesting trail meanders through rich valleys, alpine meadows, lichen-loaded forest, various streams and waterfalls with the captivating mountain views reflexive upon the nearby skyline.
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Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty Level?
Langtang Region
It is considered to be a moderate trek and demands no previous experience with a trail ranging from uphill and downhill routes with some steep parts. The topography and the season also makes a difference in the difficulty level of the trek. The best season to trek is in Spring( March-May) and Autumn (September- November)months as you will have much easy time trekking in the region. Even if the trekking route has rugged terrains and the rocky trails, you can overcome the Langtang trek difficulty if are prepared physically and mentally with proper packing. And if you are a novice trekker then you can choose to trek in the best trekking season to reduce the trek difficulty.
Mardi Himal
This is a relatively easy route as it is a teahouse trek. As it is a short trek and the route doesn’t take one to difficult places most of the trekkers have rated it be an easy trek. But, beginners have also rated it as a medium-difficult trek due to exhausting long walks and more uphill climbs. One needs to walk around 5 to 6 hours on the foothills of Mardi Himal with resting spots between walks to make it easier. Even though it’s an uphill climb, the altitude may not become much of a problem. That is because there are well adjusted resting periods scheduled.
How much Budget Is Required For Langtang Trek And Mardi Himal Trek?
Langtang Trek:
Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally, the cost ranges from anywhere around the US $600 to the US $2000. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.
Mardi Himal Trek:
Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally, the cost ranges from anywhere around the US $500 to the US $1000. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.
Necessary Permits Required For Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek?
Before embarking for the trek in the Langtang region one should be well aware of the two different permits required for a Langtang trek. They are TIMS cards and Langtang National Park Entry Permit.
Langtang Region promises various trekking options. Some of the popular treks of this region are Langtang valley trek, Gosainkunda trek, Helambu trek, and Helambu-Langtang trek. Each of these treks has their own unique experience and are stunning. And still, the number of permits is the same for most of these treks. An entrance fee is required to pass through the Shivapuri National Park.
Permits are compulsory documents before you start off for any treks in the Langtang region. During the trek, you will have to present them at various checkpoints. It is wise to get permits before the start of the trip. But in any circumstances, if you do not manage to get the trekking permits in Kathmandu, you can get it at the trail-head.
The necessary permits required for trekking to Langtang Region are :
- TIMS card
- Langtang National Park Entry Permit
- Shivapuri National Park Entry Fees
The necessary permits required for trekking to Mardi Himal Trek are :
- TIMS card
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)
Why do You Need Permits?
The trekking permits for Langtang and Annapurna Region Trek has its own significance.
The permit helps to maintain the safety and security of the trekkers by keeping the trekker’s record inside the National Park. In case of any emergencies such as earthquakes, landslides, etc. the information can then gathered to help the authorities help you. Rules and Regulations is also maintained with the help of these permits.
Once you enter the region the Local Area Permit helps to keep a record of the trekkers. This permit allows to enter the region but must follow the local rules and regulations. The amount gathered from the permit are then used by the local authority for the maintenance of the trails, rest stops and information centers for the travelers.
Necessary Documents for Permit?
You just need your passport details, two photos, and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.
Important documents and items:
- Valid passport, 2extra passport size photos, airline tickets
- Separate photocopies of passport, visa form( easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
- Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
- Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines(bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.
The necessity of Insurance:
While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.
Insurance Policy:
Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.
How much do you tip Guides and Porter in Nepal?
In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly. Generally, 12-15% of the trip cost is considered ideal for tipping. You can divide the cost amongst the guide and porter as per your level of satisfaction.
How to prepare yourself for Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal?
It is very important to be fully prepared before undertaking any trips or going on a long journey.
It is vital for any traveler or trekker to always have a list of important prerequisites with them at all times. Here is the list of things one needs to consider while going on a trek.
Physical Condition and Preparation for Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek:
It is very important that one should be of sound health before undertaking any kind of trek. Most treks are suitable for passionate walkers who have the ability to walk at least 6-7 hours a day with a light rucksack. It’s not necessary that the trek is going to be 6-7 hours a day sometimes it might even be 7-8 hours. Walking in higher altitudes is more physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if we are in excellent health with average physical fitness, have a positive attitude and strong determination, we can accomplish the trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly is a good idea to enhance our strength and stability. If one has past experiences with hiking then that would be an asset as technical skills are required for this trip. Also, we advise you to consult with your doctor(s) before undertaking the trip.
What Kind Of Accommodation Is Available During Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek?
The accommodation during the trek in Langtang and Annapurna Region will mostly be in tea houses and it also highly depends upon the routes one takes as well. As some of the less trodden areas of the region may not have as many tea houses as the frequently trekked routes. During most of the journey, one will be staying in the teahouses which normally provides facilities such as food, hot shower, WIFI, charging facilities and accommodation. And also it depends upon the remoteness of the area and the availability of transportation in that particular area and also the altitude.
Rooms provided in the teahouses
Generally, the lower region of the Langtang and Annapurna Region has a twin basis room that may or may not have an attached toilet. In case they don’t one needs to share a common toilet. And the bed(s) in the rooms will have a foam mattress, bedsheet, blankets, and pillows. If you are looking for a single room then the chances of finding one are better in the lower regions as the further you ascend the limited number of teahouses can be observed and getting a single room is pretty hard.
Toilets and Bathrooms Facilities
If you’re looking for a Western stylized toilet here in the mountains then you can find them only in the lower regions and most of the tea houses have Asian ‘squat’ type toilets. Not all tea houses provided have similar toilet and bathroom facilities as some might have separate systems for toilets and bathrooms. Usually, for a hot shower, most of the tea houses provide you with the facility but know this by a hot shower in some tea houses and places it can be a bucket of hot water and mug, not the sprinkled one as you might be expecting.
Dining Rooms in the Teahouses
Every teahouse has a dining room for everyone to gather and indulge in satisfying one’s hunger for meals or stories to share with other trekkers. Most of the dining rooms in the tea houses are well heated so it is a great place for relaxing and socializing with other trekkers.
Is Internet/Electricity Available During Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek?
Langtang Trek
As the Langtang Region is the closest trek from Kathmandu and it is very popular with the trekkers as well most of the frequently trekked areas have electricity and internet facilities. But one cannot expect it to be similar to the service provided in the more developed areas of Nepal as it is in the mountains and the signals can drop significantly. Most of the teahouses in the frequented routes of this region are able to provide you with basic electricity facilities.
But the region also has many less trodden areas where the trekking routes have not been made popular and not many guest houses are available so in those places chances of the availability of the internet are pretty rare. Although many development programs have been launched for promoting tourism here as well so the progress is being made at the moment, not much can be said. There are teahouses and lodges but not as much as in comparison to other regions where trekkers frequently visit so the internet and electricity are not available as in other regions.
Mardi Himal Trek
As well most of the frequently trekked areas have electricity and internet facilities. But one cannot expect it to be similar to the service provided in the more developed areas of Nepal as it is in the mountains and the signals can drop significantly. Most of the teahouses in the frequented routes of this region are able to provide you with basic electricity facilities.
But the region also has many less trodden areas where the trekking routes have not been made popular and not many guest houses are available so in those places chances of the availability of the internet are pretty rare. Although many development programs have been launched for promoting tourism here as well so the progress is being made at the moment, not much can be said. There are teahouses and lodges but not as much as in comparison to other regions where trekkers frequently visit so the internet and electricity are not available as in other regions.
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on most of the treks and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:
- Hydration– Drink plenty of water, it’s very important to stay hydrated.
- Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
- Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
- Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol, cigarettes, and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
- Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.
How is Trekking To Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal in Nepal in each season?
Although it is possible to trek in Nepal throughout the year on any given seasons the best time to visit any region is in the Spring and Autumn. As during the autumn season, the weather tends to be relatively stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. And during Spring the weather is quite clear and the peaks are often visible and the temperature is warm and just ideal for a trek.
Spring Season(March-May):
The spring months are probably the most popular in the region as a whole. You might be caught in the occasional snow showers if you catch the end of the winter season, but the weather should be largely stable and dry- perfect for trekking and high altitude climbing.
Autumn Season(September-November):
Clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period. Although colder days(and colder nights) are to be expected, this is a small price to pay for the wonderful vistas and perfect views of the region peaks. And added bonus of trekking during this time is the option to choose some other, less well-known routes in the area that still offer amazing views but without the hustle and bustle of the more popular routes.
Winter Season(Dec-Feb):
The region during this period can best be described as being very cold but still is trekkable. The days will be shorter and there is a lot more snow, thus routes that involve crossing big passes like the three passes trek are usually closed. The weather will be fairly stable and dry. One can expect the temperature to be as cold as -25degree to -30degree Celsius at night higher up the route.
Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August):
Summer may sound like the prime time to visit Langtang and Mardi Himal, but it is also monsoon season during which the mountain can receive large amounts of rainfall. During the monsoon season, the peaks are, more often than not, shrouded in mist. Although a trek is doable during this season, it is quite difficult as the slippery trails, leeches and the lack of mountain views are just about enough reasons in off-putting most trekkers from trekking.
What Equipment is Required for Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek?
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack what is necessary.
Head
- Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
- Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
- Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Prescription sunglasses (if required)
Upper Body
- Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
- Down vest and/or jacket
- Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
Hands
- 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
- 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
- 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)
Lower Body
- Non-cotton underwear briefs
- 1 pair of Hiking shorts
- 1 pair of Hiking trousers
- 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
- 1 pair of fleece or wool trousers
- 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric
Feet
- 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
- 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
- 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, “broken-in”)
- 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
- Cotton socks (optional)
- Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version
Sleeping
- 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
Rucksack and Travel Bags
- 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
- 1 large duffel bag
- A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
- Small padlocks for duffle-kit bags
- 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
- Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
- 1 skin-blister repair kit
- Anti-diarrhea pills
- Anti-headache pills
- Cough and/or cold medicine
- Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
- Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are respiratory depressants.
- Water purification tablets or the water filter
- 1 set of earplugs
- Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
Practical Items
- 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
- 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
- 1 compass or GPS(optional)
- 1 alarm clock/watch
- 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
- large Ziplocs
- 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
- 1 small folding knife
- Binoculars (optional)
- 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks
Toiletries
- 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
- Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
- Deodorants
- Nail clippers
- Face and body moisturizer
- Female hygiene products
- Small mirror
Personal Hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue /toilet roll
- Anti-bacterial handwash
Extras/Luxuries
- Reading book
- Trail map/guide book
- Journal and pen
- iPod
- Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at tea- houses and/or camps)
- 1 modest swim suit
- Binoculars (optional)
- Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
- Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
- Lightweight (in case your tea houses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow
I hope this Information regarding the Langtang Trek and Mardi Himal Trek gives you useful insights on how to prepare oneself for the trek to the beautiful, magnificent and aspiring region i.e. The Annapurna and Langtang. So, if the above-mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.
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