Mobile signal is available at the start and on parts of the ridge but weak at the high camp. Wi-Fi is limited and charging is paid.
Signal by section
The lower villages have good signal. Forest Camp and Low Camp are patchy. High Camp may have signal on clear days. The viewpoint usually has none, so send messages before you set off.
SIM cards
Buy a Nepali SIM in Pokhara. A data pack is inexpensive. Roaming from India works but can be costly.
Wi-Fi
Lodges at Low and High Camp sell Wi-Fi at a high price and slow speed. Do not rely on it for anything important.
Charging
Charging costs a small fee per device. Bring a power bank. Cold drains batteries quickly on the ridge.
Keeping it simple
The Mardi Himal trek is short, so a light plan works. Tell family which lodge you plan to sleep at each night. If you lose signal, they can call the lodge or your guide. A 10,000 mAh power bank is enough, and you can recharge at Low Camp if needed.
Download before you go
Save offline maps, your permit receipt and emergency numbers. A paper copy of your booking details is useful if your phone fails. Pokhara has cafés with reliable Wi-Fi where you can upload photos before and after the trek.
Planning for the ridge
The upper camps sit on exposed ridges, where wind can drain batteries quickly. Keep devices in an inside pocket and use airplane mode when not needed. If you plan to film or take many photos, carry a spare power bank and charge in the evening.
Local help
Lodge owners are used to helping trekkers contact family and arrange rescue. If you have a problem, ask them. Many have a radio or a mobile phone and know the helicopter operators in Pokhara.
Safety
Download maps, share your plan and keep emergency contacts. See the packing list.
Where to charge
Charging is available in lodges for a fee. Carry a power bank for the ridge section.
Coverage on the ridge
Signal is patchy on the lower forest sections and often fails near High Camp. Carry a power bank and treat the upper section as offline.
