Side by side
| Mardi Himal Trek | Langtang Valley Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 6 | 8 |
| Highest point | 4,500 m | 4,984 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Total distance | 55 km | 65 km |
| Best months | March to April and October to December | March to May and October to November |
| Typical cost | $400 to $700 | $500 to $900 |
| Starts from | Kande (1,750 m) or Forest Camp via taxi from Pokhara | Syabrubesi (1,550 m) |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Mardi Himal Trek if
The Mardi Himal trek is a 5 to 7 day moderate trek in the Annapurna Conservation Area that follows a ridge high above the Modi Khola valley to a high camp at 4,500 m with extraordinary close-range views of Machhapuchhre (the Fishtail) and Mardi Himal. Opened to trekkers in 2012, it remains significantly less crowded than the nearby Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill routes.
The High Camp altitude of 4,500 m requires good acclimatisation and cold-weather preparation. The trails are well-marked but steeper than Poon Hill.
Choose the Langtang Valley Trek if
The Langtang Valley trek is a 7 to 9 day moderate route in the Langtang National Park, north of Kathmandu. It climbs through rhododendron forest to the high yak pastures of Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 m, with optional side trips to Tserko Ri at 4,984 m. No internal flight is needed, which makes it the most practical short Himalayan trek from Kathmandu.
The valley trail is well-graded and the altitude gain is gradual. Tserko Ri is a genuine high-altitude day hike that demands a careful start and good acclimatisation.
