Picture was taken at Mardi Himal Base Camp.Picture was taken at Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Short Mardi Himal Trek - 5 Days

Quick Facts
  • Trip Duration5 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Maximum Altitude 4,500 meters (14,764 feet)
  • Activity Trekking
  • Starts/Ends Pokhara - Pokhara
  • Group Size 1 - 16
  • Transportation Car/Jeep
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
Why You'll Love This Trip
  • Witness the remarkable beauty of the Annapurna Ranges, including a fishtail (a virgin peak).
  • Explore Mardi Himal View Point and Mardi Himal Base Camp to encounter the morning sunrise over the white mountains.
  • Opportunity to taste local foods and cultural exchange.
  • Reach the base camp of Mardi Himal.
  • A short and sweet destination with an adorable glimpse of white peaks, lush landscapes, and green vegetation.
  • Spot the rare species of wild animals and colorful wild birds along the way.
  • Witness the beauty of nature along with the colorful blossom of wild flowers and captivating mountain ranges.

Introduction of the Short Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal is the short and easy trekking destination situated in north-central Nepal. The 5 days short Mardi Himal start with a short drive from Pokhara to Dhampus and start hiking towards the destination through dense forest, passing beautiful traditional villages along the way. As it is a short trek, it will be the perfect option for trekkers looking for a short and budget-friendly trip in Annapurna Region.

Naturally and culturally blessed, the short Mardi Himal trek offers you to witness the marvelous glimpse of the Snowy Mountains along with cultural exploration. 

The finest short trek to Mardi Himal can be started either straight through Dhampus or from Landruk or Siding. However, driving to Dhampus and following through Pritam Deurali, Forest Camp, and High is the original route of the trek, whereas trekking from Landruk and Siding is an option for you to choose.

The trail leads you through a deep forest of pine and rhododendron in the beginning and to the edge of a windy, narrow, and off-the-beaten path. The short Mardi Himal trek of 5 days can also be said to be the Mardi Himal forest trek. Most of the time, backpackers will walk in between the forests. If the trekker chooses this destination in the meantime of spring, they will be surprised to see a romantic scenario of hills covered with different colors of rhododendron flowers and green vegetation.

Witness the Annapurna Ranges along the short Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal is well known for the scenery while trekking up there. You can see the mesmerizing close-up views of the Annapurna ranges, along with the gorgeous mountains like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Himchuli. From various trekking points in this route, you can see the great vistas of these Himalayas, covered with lush greenery or snow.

What makes the Short Mardi Himal Trek especially rewarding is that though it is a  relatively short trek, it provides one of the best view points to admire these  snow-capped mountain ranges. The final ascent to the Mardi Himal Base Camp takes you to an altitude of about 4,500 meters, where you will be treated to eye-catching views of the Annapurna ranges and other towery snow peaks.

Explore Mardi Himal Base Camp

Mardi Himal Base Camp is the main highlight of the Mardi Himal Trek, which is standing at an altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level. It is a less busy trekking route as compared to Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp. This place has been getting popular for a few years, which provides you the opportunity to witness the Himalayan beauty of Nepal.

During this trek, you will be passing through dense pine and rhododendron forests and beautiful alpine landscapes. As you ascend to high camp, you will see the rugged terrain and the dominance of Machhapuchhre Himal in every step uphill. You will get the panoramic views of the Annapurna ranges with the beautiful encounter with nature.

Short Mardi Himal Trek difficulty and preparation

The short Mardi Himal Trek is one of the less explored trekking routes in Nepal, if we compare it to any other famous trekking routes. It is easy to moderate, but a bit challenging trekking routes in Nepal, as this trek has steep uphills at some parts of the trekking areas and steep downhills as well. The route from Rest Camp to High Camp and then to Mardi Base Camp is a bit challenging; otherwise, it is easy to moderately difficult.

This trek can extend from 4 days to 7 days if we go from Pokhara and come back to Pokhara after the trek. You can also conquer this trek if you are a newbie to the trek with a few preparations. You should be well prepared with physical fitness, which includes cardiovascular exercises and leg strength exercises.

You can prepare yourself with cycling, running, stairs climbing, short hikes, and stamina-building exercises. You should also pack according to the weather, so pack properly, including warm clothes, trekking poles, UV protection, sturdy trekking boots, and so on.

What is the cost for the Short Mardi Himal Trek for 5 days?

The cost for the Short Mardi Himal Trek can vary depending on the services and accommodations chosen. The cost can vary according to your demand and wish. This 5-day short Mardi Himal trek costs from USD 399 to USD 688, as per the number of people.

No. of PersonCost of trip in USD
1 pax$ 695
2 pax$ 545
3-5 pax$ 470
6-10 pax$ 439
11-16 pax$ 399

Usually, the cost includes:

  • Accommodation in tea houses along the trekking route
  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • An experienced trekking guide
  • Porter (if required)
  • Necessary permits (TIMS card and ACAP permit)
  • Transportation (Pokhara to the walking point of the trekking and back)

Optional Itinerary for Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is approximately 30 to 35 kilometers long, but it depends upon the route you choose to trek and the side trips if you want to explore more. You will reach the maximum elevation of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) at Mardi Himal Base Camp, which also provides you with the stunning views of Annapurna ranges as well as Machhapuchhre ranges. You can complete this trek in 5 to 9 days, in which you need to walk 5 to 7 hours a day depending upon your trekking stop point.

The typical itinerary has the trekking stop points at Pitam Deurali, Rest Camp, High Camp, and Mardi Himal Base Camp, which makes it Mardi Himal Trek for 7 days with this route from Kathmandu. You can also extend your trekking days, making it the Mardi Himal Trek for 9 days from Kathmandu with a fully relaxed trekking experience grabbing the slow pace. This trek to Mardi has flexibility according to your trekking and time preferences.

Why travel with a nature excursion?

Nature Excursion Pvt. Ltd. is established to provide you proper service and care during your trekking period. We care for you, as our ancestors taught us to treat guests like gods, and there is also a saying, “Atithi Dewo Bhawa." We are fully focused on making your trek fun and joyful.

You can get a flexible trekking itinerary according to your preference. Our many years of experience will be there for you every time during the whole trek. We make sure that you are safe and comfortable, and our guides are well trained for first aid and basic medications for acute mountain sickness. We are here to help you whenever you need to make you feel safe, comfortable, and entertained. You can have a look at the reviews written by our previous guests.

Short Mardi Himal Trek

The advantages that you get after joining us are as follows:

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services
  • Sleeping bags, duffel bags, and down jackets (need to be returned after trek)
  • Company t-shirt
  • Appreciation certificate after trek completion
  • Experienced mountain guides for your safety
  • Medical assistance and emergency helicopter evacuation (covered by your travel insurance)
  • First-aid kit and oximeter
  • Free luggage storage
  • Complimentary farewell dinner after the trek ends
  • A well-organized, safe, and fun trekking experience
Short Mardi Himal Trek - 5 Days pictures and video
Mardi Himal Trek

Itinerary

Day1

You will be starting this trek today after you drive from Pokhara to Dhampus Phedi, which takes around 45 minutes through the greenery, landscapes, traditional villages, and terraced fields along the way. You start to walk towards the Dhampus from Phedi, which is steep uphill, and you can see the scenic nature full of its sparkling beauty. You will be covering a total distance of around 8 km (5 miles).

After Dhampus, you leave for Pothana, where you will have lunch for today, and rest a few minutes here after lunch. After resting, you start your journey to Australian Base Camp, which is renowned for the breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. You will be walking through the terraced fields, small settlements of locals, and rhododendron forest until you reach Pritam Deurali. You spent this night over here.

  • Max. Altitude:2,100 meters (6,890 feet)
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours
Day2

Today, you will be covering a total distance of around 9 km (5.6 miles) from Pritam Deurali to Rest Camp. You will be passing through the dense forests, including maple, oak, and rhododendron, which gives you a peaceful trekking experience with the soothing chirping of the colorful wild birds. If the skies and weather are clear, you will get a glimpse of Annapurna and Machhapuchhare ranges today.

You start to continue towards the Forest Camp, where you will climb uphill, passing through the charming villages. After walking for a few hours, you will reach Rest Camp, and you will be staying here for night. During sunset, you can also witness the beautiful Machhapuchhre range.

  • Max. Altitude:2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours trek
Day3

Today, the trek is a bit challenging as you move upwards; you will be trekking in a high altitude with alpine landscapes. You will see that you are in treeless areas, with alpine bushes only. The landscape changes from dense forests to grassy bushes. As you trek higher, you can see the stunning close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. 

After walking for several hours, you can reach High Camp, where you find the small settlements of locals at the ridge of Badal Danda, which is a popular point to witness the mesmerizing views. You will be treated to clear weather with unobstructed views of the Annapurna and Fishtail ranges. This is undoubtedly the best place to watch the sunrise and sunset over the mountains. You will be trekking around 8 km (5 miles) through the ridge.

  • Max. Altitude:3,580 meters (11,745 feet)
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:6-7 hours trek
Day4

Today is the final trek before you reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. You will start early in the dark, and the climb is steep uphill yet rewarding. After 2 to 3 hours of steep walking, you reach the Mardi View Point; the scenery you see from there is unbelievably beautiful. You will be passing through the narrow trekking trail with the captivating panoramic views of Machapuchare, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Today’s trekking distance will be around 12 km (7.5 miles) round trip.

Once you reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp, situated at an elevation of 4,500 meters above sea level, you will be greeted with the smiling faces of snowy mountain ranges and jaw-dropping scenery. Your eyes feel blessed for witnessing the incredible views. You can capture lots of photos over there and enjoy the beauty of nature. After this, you will descend to High Camp and continue further down to Low Camp for the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4,500 meters (14,764 feet)
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:7-8 hour trek
Day5

This is the final day of your whole trek, with gradual descent from Low Camp to the charming Siding village. You will be descending through the trail, passing through the terraced fields and the dense forests with a few glimpses of Annapurna ranges. You can experience the local culture and tradition as Siding is the traditional Gurung village.

From Siding village, you will drive back to Pokhara, which takes around 2 hours. This day is the end of your Mardi Himal Trek, with lots of memories captured into your mind and heart. You can enjoy a scenic drive along green forests, rivers, and towns to Pokhara.

  • Max. Altitude:827 meter (2,713 feet)
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch
  • Duration:3-4 hours trek + 2-hour drive
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off service
  • Drive from Pokhara to Dhampus phedi and from Siding to Pokhara
  • Accommodation and three mealsa day during the journey
  • Government-licensed holder, good English-speaking, and well-experienced trekking guide with his meals, accommodation, and insurance 
  • A Sherpa or porter to help your luggage (one porter for two trekkers; the luggage weight limits 10 kg per trekker)
  • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fees
  • The guide carried the medical kit
  • We cover all government, local taxes, and official expenses
Excludes
  • International Flight Cost
  • Accommodation and foods in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • Entry visa of Nepal
  • Travel and health insurance, which covers an emergency evacuation
  • Tips for guide and porter
Departure Dates
Select a Departure Month
Start DateEnd DatePriceAvailability 
Start DateFrom: SundayMar 09, 2025End DateTo: ThursdayMar 13, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$339AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure
Start DateFrom: MondayMar 10, 2025End DateTo: FridayMar 14, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$339AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure
Start DateFrom: SundayMar 16, 2025End DateTo: ThursdayMar 20, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$339AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure
Start DateFrom: MondayMar 17, 2025End DateTo: FridayMar 21, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$339AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure
Start DateFrom: SundayMar 23, 2025End DateTo: ThursdayMar 27, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$399AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure
Start DateFrom: MondayMar 24, 2025End DateTo: FridayMar 28, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$399AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure
Start DateFrom: MondayMar 31, 2025End DateTo: FridayApr 04, 2025PricePrice Per PersonUS$399AvailabilityAvailabilityFixed Departure

Clients Reviews

  • Mardi trek 05/24

    This is my first time in Nepal. Hiking there is great, lots of fantastic scenery, couple it with great guides & not so hectic sch makes it even better. I really missed the mountains. Hope to go again next year.

    Kim hatt C
    Kim hatt CMalaysiaMay 24, 2024
    TripAdvisor
  • Great team for Nepal trekking

    Our group of 4pax was properly taken care by guide Karan and porters Taran & Emmanuel for the 5-day Mardi Himal trek. Despite some wet weather at the beginning, Karan kept our spirits high, and as a group, we all reached Mardi Himal viewpoint for an amazing sunrise across the Annapurna South mountain range. Karan was patient also, as one of our trekking buddies is more senior at 68 years old and managed our trekking speed accordingly.

    Wye Wong
    Wye WongMalaysiaMay 18, 2024
    TripAdvisor
Useful Information

Ideal time to embark on the short Mardi Himal Trek

The best time to go for the short Mardi Himal Trek is during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon of the year. Basically, the spring and autumn seasons are the best seasons of the year to experience trekking to Mardi Himal.

Is trekking to Mardi Himal during spring good?

The spring season lies in the March to May months, which offer clear skies with the best view, moderate temperature, and stability of weather. During this season, you can see the blossom of many colorful wildflowers welcoming you at the trekking trails of this trek. The surrounding area is full of greenery hills, and the trails are covered with rhododendron flowers. You will be passing through the dense green forests and rhododendron forests, and as you reach Badal danda, you can witness the colorful hills, which add extra beauty to nature.

Is autumn the best season of the year for the short Mardi Himal Trek?

Talking about the autumn season, it is another awesome season after spring. This season provides you the best scenery of the mountain ranges and Annapurna ranges. During this season, you can feel the cool temperature, and this season is perfect for those people who adore and prioritize the mountain views. The great festivals of Nepal, Dashain, and Tihar also occur during this time period, so you can also dive into understanding the culture of Nepal.

Is it a good decision to trek during the winter and monsoon to the Mardi Himal?

The winter season, from December to February, is not considered the best season to go Mardi Trek. However, you can make it up to Mardi with proper guidance and full preparations with the help of a licensed trekking agency. It is not recommended to go for a trek during monsoon as it will be very hard for you to walk in the muddy and slippery trails, and the trails also have leeches and earthworms during this period. The trekking routes can be destroyed at some places due to landslides during monsoon, so think and take suggestions from the trekking agency.

Required permit for the short Mardi Himal Trek and its fees

It is necessary for every trekker except Nepalese people to take permits while trekking to Mardi Himal. These permits are important for the preservation of wildlife, biodiversity, and safety of the trekkers. You need the following permits for this trek:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs approximately USD 25, or NPR 3000.

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS card), which costs approximately USD 15, or NPR 2000.

Short Mardi Himal Trek’s Packing List

You should be well-prepared and pack the essential gear for your 5-day short Mardi Himal trek. With the highest point reaching over 4,500 meters at Mardi Himal Base Camp, it’s important to pack wisely for the altitude and cold conditions. Here’s a recommended packing list:

  • A sturdy trekking backpack and a small daypack for essentials
  • Moisture-wicking base layers, like thermal wear, to stay dry
  • An insulating layer, such as a fleece or down jacket, to keep warm
  • A waterproof, windproof outer shell (jacket and pants) for protection
  • Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support and gaiters for added protection
  • Multiple pairs of thick wool socks for warmth
  • Warm gloves, a beanie, and a scarf to shield against the cold
  • Sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and a basic first aid kit
  • Trekking poles for stability on steep terrain
  • Hot water bottles to keep warm at night
  • A hot water bag for warmth, especially for your hands and feet
  • Knee pads to support and protect your knees from strain and cold

Meal and accommodation on the short Mardi Himal Trek

Talking about the accommodation during the short Mardi Himal Trek is in basic tea houses or lodges. You will be trekking in the remote areas at high altitude, so you should be provided with neat, clean rooms with the basic facilities and shared bathrooms. They offer you the best hospitality with a warm welcome.

You can find a variety of western food as well as typical Nepali dishes at every trekking stop: Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and momos (dumplings), and also the western foods, including pasta, pancakes, pizza, and eggs, in some tea houses. Choose any of the meals you want, but remember they should give you energy and nutrition.

Altitude sickness during the short Mardi Himal Trek

This short Mardi Himal Trek does not reach the extreme high altitude, but the altitude of Mardi Himal Base Camp has an altitude of 4,500 meters, so you can still have some chances of getting altitude sickness symptoms if you are not well prepared. It is important for you to ascend gradually at a slow pace and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during this trek to avoid symptoms like headaches, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.

Drink garlic soup, as it is considered the remedy for minimizing the altitude sickness risk. It is advised to ascend quickly and take rest if you feel unwell and uncomfortable. Listen to your body properly, and if you feel like having the symptoms, consult your guide, as they are experienced in managing the high altitude risks.

Last-minute booking with us

If you want to do a last-minute booking with us, you can simply book your trek through our website, and we will reply back to you as soon as possible. You just decide to book for your trekking; our team can arrange your permits, transportation, and accommodation within a short period of time so that you will not miss this fantastic trekking opportunity.

If you're already in Kathmandu, feel free to reach out to us or drop by our office for direct bookings. Please be aware that for last-minute bookings, full payment is required, and cancellations won't be eligible for a refund, but if you want to go trekking in the upcoming days, we can reuse your paid amount.

Equipments

HEAD

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Winter hat or insulating hat or wide-brimmed hat
  • Headlight with extra battery

FACE

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglass with UV protection
  • Face and body wipes

HANDS

  • Lightweight gloves
  • Lightweight winter gloves

BODY

  • Hiking shirt
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Hooded rain jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Lightweight cotton trousers
  • T-shirt (bring lightweight wool)
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathandu)
  • Sweater
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers

FOOTWEAR

  • Hiking boots
  • Thick wool shocks (take an extra pair of thick wool shocks)

ESSENTIAL GEARS

  • Backpack or day back (size depends on whether you take a porter or not)
  • Thermal bottle
  • Water purification
  • Trekking pole
  • Sleeping bag (-20-degree sleeping bag is best in high-altitude trekking)

TOILETORIES

  • Medium-size drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Nail clippers

PERSONAL ACCESSORIES

  • Money
  • Watch
  • Cell phone
  • Camera

EXTRA ITEMS

  • First aid kit
  • Extra password photos and photocopies of password
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars

Short Mardi Himal Trek - 5 Days FAQs

  • The Mardi Himal Trek 5 Days covers a distance of around 30 to 35 kilometers (18 to 22 miles), which depends on the exact route and side trips.

  • You can reach Pokhara by air, which takes around 25 to 30 minutes, and if you want to go by road, it takes 7 to 8 hours to reach there.

  • This trek is considered moderately difficult as it is shorter than the other famous treks in this region. It still  involves steep climbs, especially from Rest Camp to High Camp and the hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp.

  • You need to walk around 5 to 7 hours in a day on average, which depends on your walking pace, terrain, and the weather conditions.

  • The highest point of this short trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, standing at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet).

  • Yes, you will need two permits for this trek; they are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.

  • The cost of this trek depends upon the service or facilities you seek. Normally, the costs range from USD 400 to USD 800, including permits, accommodation, transportation from Pokhara to the trekking point and trek end point to Pokhara, and three times meals.

  • Yes, it is suitable for beginners with a good level of physical fitness. There are some steep sections, but the trek is relatively shorter, which makes it manageable for a newbie trekker.

  • It is not compulsory to hire a guide during this trek, but it will be very easy for you to obtain the enhanced trekking experience with local knowledge, trail navigation, and assistance during the emergency.

  • Some tea houses offer Wi-Fi and charging facilities, although electricity is not available at higher altitudes, and they use solar energy.

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