Short Mardi Himal Trek - 5 Days

The Short Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short adventures, offering close-up views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna South within just a few days. The trek suits both beginners and experienced hikers looking for a short, scenic, and well-paced journey in the Annapurna region. With expert guides, comfortable teahouses, and a gentle altitude profile, the Short Mardi Himal Trek delivers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and panoramic mountain horizons—ideal for travelers with limited time.

  • 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.

The Short Mardi Himal Trek is a quick escape into the Himalayas that takes you to the base of the Mardi Himal and Mt. Macchapuchre. Located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, this trek is a hidden gem for adventurers in a short time. From the first step on the trail, you’re greeted with views of the sacred Machhapuchhre 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. This trek is another best alternative short treks in Nepal after the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. 

Why Choose the Short 5-Day 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 cosy tea houses and interact with local Gurung and Magar communities

Best Mardi Himal Short Trek in Nepal in 5 Days 

The 5-Day Mardi Himal Trek is often regarded as one of the best short treks in Nepal. What makes it so special? 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, 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 Short Mardi Himal Trek stand out is its tranquillity. Mardi Himal remains a relatively quiet sanctuary compared to other treks in the Annapurna Region. 

Short Mardi Himal Trek Distance 

One of the key features of this trek is its manageable distance. The short Mardi Himal Trek distance is about 40 kilometres (25 miles) round-trip. The Mardi Trek Route is filled with steep ascents, scenic traverses, and equally steep descents! 

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. 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. 

Short Mardi Himal Trek 5-Day Itinerary Facts

Completing the Mardi Himal Trek in 5 days might sound ambitious, but it’s a well-paced itinerary that maximises 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:

DayRouteMax AltitudeTime
Day 1Drive Pokhara to Kande & Trek to Pitam Deurali / Forest Camp2,500 m5–6 hrs
Day 2Trek Forest Camp  to High Camp3,580 m6–7 hrs
Day 3Trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp & Low Camp 4,500 m7–8 hrs
Day 4Trek from Low Camp / Badal Danda to Siding Village1,700 m6–7 hrs
Day 5Siding to Drive to Pokhara822 m3–4 hrs

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 extremely fit or short on time, the trek can be squeezed into 4 days. Alternatively, if you prefer a slower pace or additional side trips, you could extend it to 6-7 days.

Mountain Eco Trails specialises 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.

Short Mardi Himal Trek 5-Day Cost 2026,2027

How much does the Short Mardi Himal Trek cost? The Short Mardi Himal Trek cost can vary based on services, group size, and timing. Mountain Eco Trails ensures transparent and competitive pricing for our trekkers.

As of 2026, 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 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.

Why Trek with Mountain Eco Trails for the 5-Day Mardi Himal Trek?

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 organiser – we are your partners in creating a meaningful adventure. Here’s how we stand out as the best trekking company in Nepal:

  • Experienced crew members and official team. 
  • Flexible and customised Mardi Trek Itinerary with personalised service. 
  • Complimentary Services like Duffel Bag, Trekking Poles, SIM Card, and an hour trekker's massage 
  • First Aid Kit with basic medication. 
  • Hassle-free last-minute booking and trip arrangements. 
  • Competitive and Fair price that matches the services and has no hidden costs. 
  • Special Discount for a group of trekkers of more than 5 Pax. 

With Mountain Eco Trails, you trek with a trusted local company that prioritises your experience, safety, and the environment. We strive to turn your Mardi Himal Trek journey into an incredible memory you’ll cherish for life.

Book Your 5-Day Short Mardi Himal Trek Now

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 Mardi Himal Trek.

Book directly with us to enjoy personalised 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 traveller looking to join a small group or you have a private group ready to go, we’ll accommodate your needs and even customise 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. The afternoon trek leads through enchanted rhododendron forests. By late afternoon, you arrive at Forest Camp for an Overnight stay.

  • 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 goes through the forest towards Low Camp. 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). 

From Low Camp, the trek continues through the Rhododendron forests and ridge line to arrive at High Camp. Reaching High Camp (~3,580m) by early to mid-afternoon, you’ll find yourself on a small grassy plateau dotted with a few lodges. Overnight in a teahouse at High Camp

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

Exciting day of the 5-Day Short Mardi Himal Trek. Wake up early and turn on your headlamp to hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trail is steep and more rugged, zigzagging along a narrow ridge. After about two hours, you reach the Upper Viewpoint (around 4,200m) just in time for sunrise. Many trekkers choose this Upper Viewpoint as their turnaround, but if you’re feeling strong and acclimatised, 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. Take time to savour 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. Overnight stay at Banda Danda or Low Camp.

  • 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.

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. Overnight stay at Siddhing Village

  • 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 Sharing Jeep will be waiting. You’ll drive for approximately 2-3 hours through the scenic countryside back to Pokhara.

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. 
  • Seasonal fruits during the trek after dinner every day. 
  • First Aid Kit carried by the guide
  • 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 $22 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

At Mountain Eco Trails, we understand that every traveler has unique schedules and preferences. That’s why we offer flexible departure dates for all our trekking and tour packages. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a group, we can customize your trekking departure date to best fit your itinerary.

  • Customized Departures for Your Convenience
  • Tailor-made departure dates: You are not limited to fixed schedules; we arrange treks based on your preferred dates.
  • Private & group treks available: Join an existing group or plan a private trek at your convenience.
  • Seasonal recommendations: We can suggest the best departure dates based on weather, trekking conditions, and your availability.
  • Short-notice departures: Need a last-minute trek? We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

Feel free to contact us with your preferred dates, and we’ll craft the perfect trekking experience for you!

Select a Departure Month
Start DateEnd DatePriceStatus 
Start DateStarts: SundayJan 04, 2026End DateEnds: ThursdayJan 08, 2026PricePriceUS$599StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SundayJan 11, 2026End DateEnds: ThursdayJan 15, 2026PricePriceUS$599StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SundayJan 18, 2026End DateEnds: ThursdayJan 22, 2026PricePriceUS$599StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: SundayJan 25, 2026End DateEnds: ThursdayJan 29, 2026PricePriceUS$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, 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 colour 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:

Clothing (Upper & Lower)

  • Quick Dry T-shirts 
  • Thermal Layers (Top & Bottom)
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Down Jacket 
  • Hiking Shorts 
  • Trekking Pants and Trousers 
  • Gloves and a Wollen Hat

Trekking Gear

  • Trekking Poles and Backpack of 50-60L 
  • Sleeping Bag and water bottle 
  • Quality Trekking Boot 
  • Duffel Bag (If you hire a porter)
  • Water Purification Tablet 

Miscellaneous Essentials

  • First Aid Kit 
  • Toiletries 
  • Nepalese Currency 
  • Passports 
  • Skin Care 
  •  Battery charger and Power Banks 

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.

Short Mardi Himal Trek 5 Days 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 during the 5 Day Short Trek to Mardi 

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, omelette), 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, 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. 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. Along the Mardi Himal route, bottled mineral water can be purchased at teahouses, but we strongly encourage more sustainable options. Teahouses will refill your bottle with filtered or boiled water for a small cost.

Places to stay during the 5-Day Short Mardi Trek 

During the Short Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll stay in teahouse lodges. 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. 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.

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. 

Possibility of Getting Altitude Sickness during the Short Trek to Mardi 

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 recognise AMS symptoms and will check in on you regularly. If anyone experiences serious symptoms, the plan is to descend to a lower altitude immediately. Although, 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.

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 Short 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 organise 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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