Mardi Himal is steep, windy and cold at the top, so good packing makes the trip much easier. Lower sections are warm and humid, while High Camp can fall below freezing at night. Aim for a bag of about 8 to 10 kg if a porter will carry it, and keep daily needs in your daypack.
Clothing
- Two or three quick-dry base layers.
- A warm fleece or synthetic mid layer.
- A down or insulated jacket for the ridge and evenings.
- A waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers.
- Two trekking trousers and thermal leggings.
- Warm hat, sun hat, buff and gloves.
- Four to five pairs of trekking socks.
Footwear
Waterproof, supportive trekking boots with good grip are essential for the steep and sometimes slippery forest and ridge sections. Bring camp shoes and, in winter or early spring, gaiters. Microspikes are useful when snow covers the ridge.
Sleeping
A sleeping bag rated to about minus 10 degrees Celsius is a safe choice for High Camp. A liner adds warmth and cleanliness. Many lodges supply blankets but they are not always enough.
Essentials
- A 25 to 30 litre daypack with a rain cover.
- Water bottle and purification tablets or filter.
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
- Sunglasses, sun cream and lip balm.
- Trekking poles, which help greatly on steep sections.
- Snacks, as food choices are limited high up.
Health and hygiene
Include blister care, pain relief, rehydration salts, personal medicines, wet wipes, hand sanitiser and toilet paper. Keep a small first-aid kit and a printed copy of your permits and insurance.
What to leave behind
Valuables, heavy cotton clothes and unnecessary electronics. Most hotels in Pokhara will store your spare luggage while you trek.
Weather-proofing your bag
Use a rain cover and line your pack with a waterproof bag. Keep clothing and electronics dry. Wet clothes at altitude are cold and heavy. A dry set for the evening and sleeping makes a difference.
Leave no trace items
Carry a small bag for rubbish, avoid plastic bottles and bring reusable containers. Dispose of waste properly at lodges or carry it back to Pokhara. Biodegradable soap is better than regular soap for washing.
Small items that help
A buff for dust and sun, a scarf for the ridge wind, hand warmers for cold mornings and a compact towel add comfort. A pee bottle spares you a trip in the cold night to the toilet outside.
