Short Mardi Himal TrekShort Mardi Himal Trek
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View Of Mardi From Bandal Danda ()

Short Mardi Himal Trek - 5 Days

  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration5 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max. Altitude4500 meters
  • Starts/EndsKande/Sidding
  • Trip StyleTrekking
  • Group SizeMin 1 Pax.
  • Best SeasonSpring and Autumn
Highlights
  • A short journey from Pokhara, best for any age group of people.
  • Closest views of Annapurna Range, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Mt. Fishtail, and numerous other peaks.
  • Remarkable trekking experience through the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Less explored trekking path in the Annapurna.

A Gateway to the Breathtaking Himalayas of Mardi


Imagine trekking through emerald forests, walking ridge lines high above the clouds, and waking up to panoramas of snow-capped peaks – all within just a few days. The Short Mardi Himal Trek offers exactly that. Tucked away in the Annapurna region of Nepal, this trek is a hidden gem for adventurers seeking big rewards in a short time. From the first step on the trail, you’re greeted with views of the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the sprawling Annapurna massif, teasing the grandeur that awaits ahead.

This journey is perfect for those on a tight schedule who still crave an authentic Himalayan experience. In just 5 days, you traverse diverse landscapes – starting in lush sub-tropical jungles and ascending to breezy high camps surrounded by rugged alpine terrain. The trail is less crowded than other famous routes, making Mardi Himal one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal. Whether you’re a novice trekker or a seasoned hiker, the Short Mardi Himal Trek captivates with its blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and manageable adventure, encouraging you to read on and discover why this could be your ideal Himalayan trek.

Why Choose the Short Mardi Himal Trek?

  • Quick yet rewarding – Ideal for trekkers with limited time
  • Less crowded route – Experience Nepal’s untouched beauty in peace
  • Stunning panoramic views – Witness the majesty of the Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna range
  • Perfect for all levels – A moderately easy trek suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike
  • Authentic cultural experience – Stay in cozy tea houses and interact with local Gurung and Magar communities

Best Short Trek in Nepal


Nepal is renowned for its epic multi-week treks, but not everyone has the luxury of time. Enter the Mardi Himal Trek, often lauded as the best short trek in Nepal. What makes it so special? Firstly, it condenses the Himalayan trekking experience into a 5-day itinerary without compromising on the highlights. You’ll get jaw-dropping close-ups of peaks like Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal itself, and the iconic Machhapuchhre – views that usually require much longer journeys. The trail winds through rhododendron forests that burst into bloom in spring, crosses high mountain pastures, and climbs towards the dramatic ridge of Mardi Himal. Each day brings new scenery and excitement, from moss-laden forests alive with bird calls to open ridges granting 360-degree views of the Annapurna range.

Another aspect that makes the Mardi Himal Trek stand out is its tranquility. While popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit see heavy foot traffic, Mardi Himal remains a relatively quiet sanctuary. This means you can hike in peace, soak in the sounds of nature, and have those sunrise viewpoints largely to yourself. Local teahouses along the route offer a cozy place to rest and connect with Nepal’s rich culture. You’ll stay in small villages and get a taste of Gurung and Magar hospitality – think warm smiles, home-cooked Dal Bhat, and maybe an evening of folk songs by the fireplace. For anyone dreaming of Himalayan vistas but limited by time, the Short Mardi Himal Trek truly shines as Nepal’s best short trekking adventure.

Short Mardi Himal Trek Distance


One of the key appeals of this trek is its manageable distance, packing grand scenery into a compact route. The short Mardi Himal Trek distance is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) round-trip, typically completed over 5 trekking days. Don’t let the relatively low mileage fool you – these kilometers are filled with steep ascents, scenic traverses, and equally steep descents! Starting from the trailhead near Kande (about an hour’s drive from Pokhara), you’ll gradually gain altitude as you move camp to camp. By the time you reach Mardi Himal Base Camp at ~4,500m, you’ll have ascended roughly 3,000 meters from the start, all within a few days. The trail then loops down via Siding village.

Covering 40 km in 5 days means you’ll hike around 8–10 km per day, which is quite doable for anyone in decent shape. Trekkers love that every mile is rewarding – there’s no filler, only killer views! Even the lower portions of the trail offer glimpses of Himalayan peaks through breaks in the trees. As you climb higher, the tree line gives way to shrubby bushes and then barren slopes, with the majestic Annapurna range coming into full view. The short distance also means less strain on your body compared to longer treks, making it accessible to beginners. It’s the perfect length to challenge yourself but not exhaust you, allowing time to enjoy the surroundings. Plus, if you’re trekking with friends or family, a shorter distance means everyone can keep up and share the experience. In summary, the Mardi Himal Trek’s distance strikes a sweet balance – not too long, not too short, and just right for a memorable alpine adventure.

5-Day Mardi Himal Trek – Overview of the Journey


Completing the Mardi Himal Trek in 5 days might sound ambitious, but it’s a well-paced itinerary that maximizes your experience. Most trekkers either start and end in Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside city gateway to the Annapurnas. Here’s a quick look at how a 5-day Mardi Himal Trek unfolds:

  • Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to the trailhead (usually Kande) and trek up to Pitam Deurali or Forest Camp. You’ll leave civilization behind and enter the quiet of nature, ascending through terraced fields and dense rhododendron forests.
  • Day 2: Trek from Forest Camp (around 2,500m) to Low Camp and onward to High Camp (3,580m). The trail climbs past the tree line, revealing sweeping vistas. Reaching High Camp by afternoon gives you time to rest and acclimate while savoring views of Machhapuchhre’s distinctive fishtail peak right in front of you.
  • Day 3: Early morning push to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) for sunrise. This is the hardest but most magical day – hiking in crisp pre-dawn air and arriving as the sun paints the sky and mountains in golden hues. After reveling at the top, you’ll descend back down to a lower altitude, typically stopping at Low Camp or Badal Danda for the night.
  • Day 4: Continue descending through lush forests to Siding Village (1,700m). This is a long descent day where knees will work hard, but the rustic charm of Siding and the lower elevation air will feel wonderful after the alpine exposure.
  • Day 5: A short trek from Siding to the road's end, then drive back to Pokhara, where a hot shower and perhaps a cold beverage by Phewa Lake await your celebration of completion!

Despite being just 5 days, this itinerary touches all the highlights: panoramic mountain views at sunrise, varied terrains each day, and a taste of local mountain culture. It’s important to note that trek itineraries can be flexible. If you’re super fit or short on time, the trek can even be squeezed into 4 days (by combining some sections), whereas if you prefer a slower pace or additional side trips, you could extend it to 6-7 days. Mountain Eco Trails specializes in crafting the perfect route for your needs, ensuring you get the most out of your 5-day adventure. Now, let’s break down the itinerary day by day to see what each day has in store.

Mardi Himal Trekking Cost


When planning your adventure, it’s natural to ask: How much does the Short Mardi Himal Trek cost? The Mardi Himal trekking cost can vary based on services, group size, and timing, but Mountain Eco Trails ensures transparent and competitive pricing for our trekkers. As of 2025, a private 5-day Mardi Himal Trek with Mountain Eco Trails costs approximately USD 599 per person. This rate is for a dedicated trek just for you (and your group) and offers flexibility in schedule and pace. We handle all the logistics so you can trek with ease. If you opt to join a group trek, the cost goes down – roughly USD 450 per person for a small group of 6-10 trekkers. Larger groups can enjoy further discounts; we encourage you to get in touch for special group rates, as we love accommodating clubs, families, or student groups with budget-friendly offers. (Prices are subject to change, but we’ll always inform you of the latest rates upfront.)

Why Trek with Mountain Eco Trails?

Choosing the right trekking company can make a huge difference in your experience. At Mountain Eco Trails, we pride ourselves on being more than just a trek organizer – we are your partners in creating a meaningful adventure. Here’s how we stand out from the crowd:

  1. Eco-Tourism Ethos: As our name suggests, we are champions of eco-friendly trekking. We follow strict Leave No Trace principles, carry out all our trash, and minimize plastic use (for example, encouraging water purification over bottled water). 
  2. Expert Local Guides: Our guides are born and raised in Nepal’s Himalayas, including the Mardi Himal region. They not only know the trail like the back of their hand but also share fascinating insights about each mountain, local folklore, and wildlife you encounter. Having spent years guiding and even working as porters, they are highly experienced and licensed, ensuring your safety and comfort. 
  3. Exclusive & Tailor-Made Services: Mountain Eco Trails offers flexibility that big operators often can’t. Want to celebrate a birthday at High Camp with a cake? Prefer an extra day for photography? Need vegetarian or gluten-free meals? We excel at crafting tailor-made itineraries and special touches to personalize your trek. Our group sizes are small and intimate, or completely private if you choose, which means we can fine-tune the experience to your interests. This personal approach is something our past trekkers rave about.
  4. All-Inclusive Convenience: Trekking in Nepal involves many logistics – permits, transport, gear checks, etc. We take care of everything. From the moment you arrive, our team will handle airport pickups, hotel transfers, permit issuance, and gear rental assistance. 
  5. Safety First and Support: Your well-being is our top priority. Our guides carry basic first-aid kits and are trained in altitude sickness prevention and emergency response. We monitor your health throughout the trek – checking oxygen levels if needed and ensuring you acclimatize well.
  6. Authentic Cultural Experience: Being a 100% locally owned company, we have strong relationships with communities along the Mardi Himal route. We choose family-run teahouses and promote engaging with local people.
  7. Professionalism, personalized service, and responsible tourism. Our trekkers often become our friends, and many come back to explore other trails with us because they trust our commitment to quality. With us, you’re not just another client – you’re part of our eco-travel family. When comparing options for the Mardi Himal Trek, the care we put into our trips truly sets us apart. We invite you to experience the difference on your unforgettable journey to Mardi Himal!

Book Your Short Mardi Himal Trek Now – Adventure Awaits!


Your Himalayan adventure is just a few steps away. The Short Mardi Himal Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Mountain Eco Trails is here to make it unforgettable from start to finish. Don’t miss the chance to stand before towering peaks and walk among the clouds on this incredible 5-day journey. Book directly with us to enjoy personalized service and the most competitive rates. We offer group discounts too, so round up your friends, family, or trekking buddies for an even more memorable trip (and savings for everyone!). Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to join a small group or you have a private group ready to go, we’ll accommodate your needs and even customize the itinerary if desired.

Itinerary

Your trek begins with an early morning drive from Pokhara to Kande, a scenic 1-hour ride past terraced farms and hills. At Kande, you’ll hit the trail on foot. The path winds upward through lush forests and occasional clearings that offer the first views of the Annapurna range. After a couple of hours, you reach Australian Camp (a beautiful viewpoint and rest stop), then continue to Pitam Deurali (2,100m) by lunchtime. Here, the trail diverges, leaving the busy route to Annapurna Base Camp and heading towards Mardi Himal. The afternoon trek leads through enchanted rhododendron forests; if you’re trekking in spring, expect a blaze of pink and red blooms around you. Keep an eye out for wildlife too – this region is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to playful langur monkeys and various birds. By late afternoon, you arrive at Forest Camp. It’s a small settlement with a handful of tea houses surrounded by thick woods. Enjoy a hearty dinner by the fire and rest well to prepare for tomorrow’s ascent

  • Max Altitude:2500 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 hours
  • Meals:Lunch and Dinner

After a warm breakfast, set out from Forest Camp and continue climbing. The trail at first remains in the forest, but as you gain altitude towards Low Camp (3,000m), the trees start to thin. Low Camp offers a stunning change of scenery: the dense forest opens up to a ridge with panoramic views. Here, you’ll catch a sight that takes your breath away – Machhapuchhre (6,993m), the sacred “Fishtail” mountain, standing tall directly ahead. This pyramid-like peak will be your companion for much of the trek. After a rest and perhaps tea at Low Camp, you push on to High Camp. The route follows a ridgeline; with increasing altitude, you’ll notice the air get cooler and the surroundings more alpine. Tall rhododendrons give way to scrub and grass. Along the way, you might pass Badal Danda (Cloud Hill), an open viewpoint aptly named for often being at cloud level. Reaching High Camp (~3,580m) by early to mid-afternoon, you’ll find yourself on a small grassy plateau dotted with a few lodges. Take the evening to relax: sip a hot drink and watch the sun dip behind the Annapurna peaks. The sunset from High Camp can be phenomenal, with clouds sea below and the sky turning amber above the silhouettes of Mardi Himal and Machhapuchhre. As darkness falls, an incomparable canopy of stars comes out – the Milky Way often clearly visible in the thin mountain air. Overnight in a teahouse at High Camp

  • Max Altitude:3580
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:5-6 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the highlight of the trek, so an early start is key. Before dawn, gear up with your headlamp and a warm jacket and set out for Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail is steep and more rugged, zigzagging along a narrow ridge. In the pre-dawn darkness, you move slowly and steadily, feeling the altitude. After about two hours, you reach the Upper Viewpoint (around 4,200m) just in time for sunrise. As daylight breaks, an unforgettable panorama unfolds: the sun’s rays fan out from behind the formidable south face of Annapurna and Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre’s tip glows gold. Many trekkers choose this Upper Viewpoint as their turnaround, but if you’re feeling strong and acclimatized, it’s another hour of effort to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Standing at Base Camp, you are face-to-face with Mardi Himal and at a vantage point where you can look across to Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), and all the way to Dhaulagiri (8,167m) on a clear day. The world below – the Modi Khola valley and lakes of Pokhara – seems tiny. Take time to savor your achievement and the majestic scenery. After clicking plenty of photos and perhaps stacking a few prayer stones, you’ll retrace your steps back to High Camp for a well-deserved late breakfast. Then it’s time to descend to a safer elevation for the night. You’ll hike down past High Camp and Low Camp, eventually stopping at either Low Camp (3,000m) or Badal Danda or even further down to Forest Camp, depending on your energy and schedule. Coming down is much quicker, but you’ll feel the strain on your knees – trekking poles help a lot. In the evening, celebrate the day’s adventure with fellow trekkers and your guide

  • Max Altitude:3000 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:7-8 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After conquering the heights, today you are immersed in local culture. From Low Camp, you depart the ridge and take a different trail downward through thick forests toward the valley. The descent is steep at times, as you lose about 1,300m of altitude. The air grows warmer and richer in oxygen with every step. After a few hours, you arrive at Siding, a traditional hillside village. Siding offers insight into rural Nepali life away from the commercial trekking lodges. You’ll notice terraced fields of rice or millet, water buffaloes lounging in mud pools, and villagers tending to daily chores. The people here belong mostly to the Gurung and other ethnic communities, known for their friendliness and vibrant culture. If you arrive by early afternoon, you can wander the village, perhaps visit a local home or school, and enjoy a cup of tea while gazing back up at the ridge you were standing on the day before. This last evening on the trail is often filled with joy – your guide and porters might teach you a Nepali folk dance or sing a local song to mark the nearing end of the journey. Accommodation is in a simple teahouse, perhaps more rustic than the higher camps but with genuine warmth and hospitality.

  • Max Altitude:1700 meters
  • Accommodation:Tea House
  • Time:8-9 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Savor your final morning in the Himalayas with a hearty breakfast at Siding. From here, it’s a short and pleasant walk down to the road head (at Lumre or an accessible point), where a private jeep or vehicle will be waiting. You’ll drive for approximately 2-3 hours through the scenic countryside back to Pokhara. Along the drive, you can look back at the mountains and marvel at the distance and heights you covered on foot. By midday, you’re back in the comforts of Pokhara. Take time to relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy an afternoon cafe or massage – you’ve earned it! Though the trek is over, the memories of Mardi Himal’s towering peaks and the incredible sunrise from Base Camp will stay with you forever. Many trekkers say this short trek changed their perspective on the Himalayas – proving you don’t always need long vacations to have a grand adventure.

  • Max Altitude:850 meters
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:3-4 Hours
  • Meals:Breakfast

The above itinerary is the standard 5-day route for Mardi Himal. Mountain Eco Trails can customize this plan based on your needs. If you want a shorter 4-day version, it usually means trekking longer hours or skipping Siding and descending via a different route. A slightly longer 6-7 day version might add a day in High Camp for acclimatization or exploration, or include a night in a village like Landruk on the return. We ensure that whatever the length, your trek is safe, enjoyable, and tailored to your pace.

Cost Includes
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit Card
  • 2-night Accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast. Before and After the Trek.
  • Pokhara-kande Private Vehicle costs.
  • Siding-Pokhara Private Jeep costs.
  • English-speaking and experienced guide. 
  • Expenses of the guide, including his salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance.
  • Meals during the trek. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Accommodation during the trek on a sharing basis.
  • Necessary Arrangement of the rescue operation if needed. 
  • All government and local taxes.
Cost Excludes
  • Any personal expenses like hot or cold drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, Hot Shower, etc.
  • Porter expenses. (If required we can manage it for you. It costs $20 per day)
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara any kind of transportation. (if you want you can contact us)
  • Extra night in Kathmandu or Pokhara in case of early arrival or late departure. Also, an extra night in the mountains if there are any weather changes or unforeseen situations which are not in our hands.
  • Your travel insurance, rescue, and medical bills if needed.
  • Tips to guide and Porter.
Availability

Available year-round, with customizable private departures to fit your schedule. Join our fixed departures during peak seasons (Spring: March- May & Autumn: September- November) for the best trekking conditions. 

Select a Departure Month
Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: SundayMar 30, 2025End DateEnds: ThursdayApr 03, 2025PricePriceUS$599StatusStatusAvailable
Good to Know

Nepal Visa Requirements:

Visiting Nepal is straightforward for most nationalities, as the country offers visas on arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and land borders. To obtain a tourist visa on arrival, you will need a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity remaining and a blank page), a completed application form (you can fill this out online before arrival or at kiosk machines at the airport), and the visa fee in cash. The fees are USD 30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, or $125 for 90 days (multiple entry visas).

Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal

The Himalayas transform with the seasons, and picking the right time to trek is crucial for the best experience. The best time to trek Mardi Himal is during the spring and autumn seasons of Nepal. Spring (March to May) is a fantastic time: The weather is relatively warm, and the hills are bursting with color as rhododendron forests bloom in shades of red, pink, and white. Trekking in spring offers clear mornings with views of the snow peaks, though late afternoons can get cloudy.

Autumn (late September to November) is arguably the most popular trekking season in Nepal, and Mardi Himal is no exception. After the monsoon rains clear the dust, autumn skies are crystal clear, offering stunning mountain views day after day.

Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek:

Despite being a shorter trek, you’ll experience a wide range of altitudes and temperatures on the Mardi Himal route. Packing smart is key to comfort. Here’s a handy packing list to ensure you have the essentials:

  • Trekking Clothing: Moisture-wicking t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and trekking pants are ideal for daytime hiking. A pair of thermal base layers (top and bottom) will keep you warm at night in higher altitudes. Don’t forget a fleece jacket or warm sweater and a down jacket for cold mornings and evenings (temperatures can drop below freezing at High Camp). Carry a waterproof/windproof outer shell jacket and rain pants, especially if trekking in spring or late autumn, when showers can occur.
  • Head & Hands: A warm beanie or wool hat for cold days and a wide-brimmed sun hat or cap for sunny days. Bring sunglasses with UV protection (the high-altitude sun and snow glare can be intense). For your hands, insulated gloves are a must; consider lightweight glove liners, too.
  • Footwear: A good pair of broken-in trekking boots with ankle support is crucial. The trail can be steep and uneven, so sturdy boots help prevent sprains. Also, pack comfortable trekking socks (merino wool or synthetic blend to avoid blisters – bring 3-4 pairs). Gaiters are optional but useful in case of mud or snow. And for evenings in the teahouses, a pair of light sandals or Crocs lets your feet breathe.
  • Trekking Gear:Trekking poles – highly recommended, especially for steep descents and for added stability. A durable duffel bag (if you have a porter, they’ll carry this) and a daypack (~30 liters) for you to carry essentials during the day (water, camera, snacks, jacket). In your daypack, always have a reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (at least 1-2 liters capacity). A good headlamp with extra batteries is essential for the early morning Base Camp hike and for moving around teahouses at night. Also, bring a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C (14°F) for warmth at higher lodges – Mountain Eco Trails can provide this on request if you don’t have one.
  • Miscellaneous Essentials: A basic first aid kit with any personal medications, blister care (bandages, moleskin), ibuprofen, etc. Altitude sickness preventive medicine (like Diamox) can be considered – consult your doctor. Water purification tablets or filter (so you can refill from natural sources or taps and treat water, reducing the need to buy bottled water). Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm (the sun and wind at altitude are intense). Insect repellent for lower altitudes (leeches can be an issue in the summer monsoon season). Snacks like trail mixes or energy bars for quick energy boosts. Also, pack a few passport photos and photocopies of your passport – useful for permits or if any official need arises. Lastly, carry some Nepali Rupees in cash (small bills) for personal expenses on the trek (tea, snacks, hot showers, tips).

By packing these items, you’ll be prepared for the Mardi Himal Trek’s variety of conditions. Remember, layering is the secret – days can be warm when the sun is out, but temperatures drop quickly in the shade or at night. Layers let you adjust easily. Our team will do a gear check with you in Pokhara before departure to ensure you have everything needed or help you rent/purchase any missing gear in town.

Mardi Himal Trek Difficulty

The Mardi Himal Trek is rated as a moderate trek in terms of difficulty. Don’t be misled by the word “short” – you will be doing significant uphill and downhill walking, which can be tiring if you’re not used to hiking. However, compared to longer treks in Nepal, Mardi Himal’s daily distances and altitude gain are reasonable, making it very achievable for beginners and enjoyable for experienced trekkers who want a shorter excursion. On average, you’ll walk 5-6 hours a day, with some days involving steep climbs (especially the approach to Base Camp). Prior hiking experience is helpful but not required; what’s more important is a basic level of fitness and determination. We recommend some preparatory walks or cardio exercises in the weeks before the trek to build stamina. The trail itself is well-marked and does not involve any technical climbing – it’s mostly dirt paths, stone steps in villages, and some rocky sections near the high viewpoint.

Meals & Drinking Water on the Trek:

Eating well is vital for keeping your energy up during the trek, and one of the joys of trekking in Nepal is the cozy teahouse dining experience. Meals on the Mardi Himal Trek are typically provided by teahouses along the route. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of food available despite the remote location. For breakfast, common options are porridge, muesli, or toast with eggs (fried, boiled, omelet), and of course, plenty of tea or coffee. As you ascend, don’t miss trying Tibetan bread – a puffy fried bread that’s delicious with honey or jam. Lunch and dinner menus often feature Nepali dal bhat (the national dish of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry), which is highly recommended for its balance of carbs and protein – and it’s usually all-you-can-eat! Other dishes include noodle soups, fried rice, momos (Nepali dumplings), pasta, and even pizzas at some camps. Keep in mind that as you go higher, the menu gets simpler and prices slightly increase (due to the cost of transporting goods up). Our package treks include three meals a day, so you can choose freely from the menu at each stop.

For drinking water, it’s crucial to stay hydrated at altitude (aim for at least 3-4 liters per day). Along the Mardi Himal route, bottled mineral water can be purchased at teahouses, but we strongly encourage more sustainable (and budget-friendly) options. Teahouses will refill your bottle with filtered or boiled water for a small cost. Using your purification method is a great idea: bring iodine or chlorine tablets or a lightweight filter like a Sawyer squeeze.

Accommodation in Mardi Himal Trek:

During the Short Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll stay in teahouse lodges, which are small guesthouses run by local families. These accommodations are simple but provide all the necessities a trekker needs. In lower villages like Forest Camp or Siding, the teahouses are usually built from stone or wood, with a communal dining area that often features a toasty fireplace. Rooms are twin-sharing with two single beds (wooden frames with a foam mattress). Bedding (a pillow and blanket) is provided, but at higher elevations, the nights get cold, so you’ll want to use your sleeping bag in addition.

Electricity and charging facilities in Mardi Himal Trekking Route

Most teahouses have solar or generator power. You can typically charge your phone or camera in the dining area for a small fee per hour. There might be limited (or no) Wi-Fi on this trail; if available, it will also cost a few dollars for access and can be very slow. Embrace the disconnection – an evening by the fire chatting with fellow trekkers or playing cards can be far more rewarding than scrolling on your phone! The charm of these teahouses is in their simplicity and warmth of hospitality. Despite the basic setup, the hosts often go above and beyond – preparing meals, ensuring you’re warm, and making you feel at home. By the end of the trek, you may form a bond with the friendly lodge owners and their families. Also, know that by staying in these lodges, you are directly supporting the local economies of these remote communities. Mountain Eco Trails has longstanding relationships with the best teahouses on the Mardi Himal route, ensuring clean, safe, and welcoming places to rest each night of your journey.

Possibility of Getting Altitude Sickness in Mardi Himal Base Camp

Altitude sickness (AMS) is a concern on any trek that goes above 3,000m. On the Mardi Himal Trek, the highest sleeping point is High Camp (3,580m), and the highest point reached is 4,500m at Base Camp. At these altitudes, some trekkers might feel mild symptoms of altitude mountain sickness, such as headache, shortness of breath, or difficulty sleeping. It’s still essential to listen to your body: don’t rush, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Our guides are trained to recognize AMS symptoms and will check in on you regularly. If anyone experiences serious symptoms (like persistent headache, dizziness, or nausea), the plan is to descend to a lower altitude immediately – that’s the sure cure. Thankfully, because the Mardi Himal trail is relatively close to Pokhara and lower villages, getting to a safe elevation is quick. We also carry a basic first aid kit and can help administer Diamox (an AMS preventive) if you’ve discussed its use with your doctor beforehand and choose to use it. With sensible pacing, adequate rest, and our team’s support, the vast majority of trekkers complete Mardi Himal without any altitude sickness issues. And of course, the sense of achievement you’ll feel standing at 4,500m, looking out over the Himalayas, is incredible – well worth the effort!

Guide Requirement for Mardi Himal Trek:

If you’re wondering whether you need a guide for the Mardi Himal Trek, recent regulations and practical considerations give a clear answer: Yes, it’s highly recommended and now effectively required to have a guide. As of April 2023, the Nepal Tourism Board has implemented a rule that foreign trekkers must trek with a licensed guide or join a group for treks in national park areas. The Mardi Himal Trek falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area, so this regulation applies. This means solo independent trekking (without a guide/porter) is no longer permitted officially. The rule was introduced for trekker safety and to create jobs for local guides. When you trek with Mountain Eco Trails, we arrange a friendly, knowledgeable guide who is certified and knows the Mardi Himal area intimately. Mountain Eco Trails only employs trained, insured, and experienced guides and porters, so you’re in good hands.

Similar 5-Day Treks from Pokhara

Besides the Mardi Himal Trek 5-Days, we organize similar treks in the Annapurna Region. Here is the list of short treks from Pokhara:

FAQs

  • Mardi Himal Base Camp lies at an altitude of 4500 meters

  • Yes, a 5-day Mardi Himal Trek is a common itinerary from Pokhara.

  • Yes, teahouses have internet facilities at some extra cost.

  • It is very rare to get altitude sickness on this Mardi Trek. However, we suggest to be aware of this sickness. If you feel headache, fatigue, vomiting, nausea, etc. inform your guide immediately. 

  • Both the treks have their charm. Poon Hill Trek takes you closer to Mt. Dhaulagiri Range. Whereas, Mardi Himal Trek takes you near the Macchapuchre.

  • The standard Short Mardi Himal Trek is 5 days of trekking, usually with an additional day on each end for travel or preparation (one day to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and one day returning, if coming from Kathmandu). So altogether, about a week is ideal from start to finish. Some experienced trekkers complete the trail in 4 days by trekking longer hours, but this can be very strenuous and leaves little time to enjoy the views

  • The total trekking distance for the Mardi Himal route is approximately 40 km (25 miles) round-trip. This distance is typically covered throughout the trek (excluding any drives).

  • The Mardi Himal Trek is moderate in difficulty. It doesn’t require any mountaineering skills – no climbing with ropes or ice axes – just hiking on well-trodden trails. The main challenges are the steep ascents/descents and the high altitude at Base Camp. If you maintain a reasonable fitness level, you should handle this trek fine. Beginners can do this trek as their first Himalayan adventure, and many do!

  • Yes, two permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

  • In light of new regulations, trekking without a guide is no longer allowed for foreign nationals on routes like Mardi Himal (within conservation areas) for foreign nationals.

We Offer Group Discount
  
1 paxUS$599
2 - 5 paxUS$549
6 - 10 paxUS$450
Price Per PersonUS$599US$699(All-inclusive services)
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