The "4 Days Mardi Himal Trek" is a beginner-friendly trekking destination from Pokhara, offering a condensed but rewarding Himalayan experience. It's considered an easy-to-moderate trek, making it perfect for those with limited time or no prior trekking experience. The itinerary is designed for a complete loop, taking you through dense forests to stunning viewpoints with panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna I and Fishtail. The trek's main highlights are its easy accessibility, spectacular mountain vistas, and immersion in the region's natural and cultural beauty, all packed into a manageable 4-day timeframe.
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- Duration4 Days
- Price from$370/ person
- Difficulty LevelModerate
- Max Altitude(4,500 M) 14,764 ft
While Mardi Himal is renowned for its stunning mountain views, it's also a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and tranquil trekking experience. Our 4-day Mardi Himal trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a relaxed pace, making it ideal for beginners, families, and those who prioritise a leisurely exploration of the Annapurna Region.
Highlights of 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary
- Forest Camp: Experience the peaceful ambiance of the forest as you trek to your first campsite.
- High Camp: Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) from your elevated campsite.
- Mardi Himal Viewpoint: Ascend to the viewpoint for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Mardi Himal Base Camp: Explore the base camp of this majestic peak and immerse yourself in the alpine environment.
Unlike the more demanding Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, Mardi Himal focusses on immersing you in the serene beauty of the surrounding forests and landscapes. While cultural experiences may be limited compared to other treks, you'll have ample opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate the breathtaking Himalayan peaks.
Our 4-day itinerary is specifically designed for those who want to enjoy a leisurely pace and savor the beauty of the region. You'll have the chance to witness the vibrant rhododendron blooms during the spring season and experience the tranquillity of the mountain trails. Well, if you have limited time, you can pick a 3-day Mardi Himal Trek package.
What makes this tour very interesting
🗓️ Best Time of Year for the Mardi Himal Trek
In Nepal, the optimum time for trekking—with the exception of remote high-altitude journeys like the Upper Mustang and Dolpo Treks—is generally considered to be Spring and Autumn.
🌸 Spring (March to May)
Springtime offers one of the most visually stunning aspects of this trek: the Rhododendron (Laligurans) bloom. The entire forest will be blanketed in vibrant red, pink, and white rhododendrons, and the skies are typically clear. This season is beautiful for both flowers and mountain visibility.
🍁 Autumn (Late September to November)
Autumn is widely regarded as Nepal's absolute best trekking season, coinciding with the country's biggest festivals, such as the start of Indra Jatra, Dashain, and Tihar.
- Weather and Views: The days are temperate, the skies are characteristically clear, offering the best mountain views, and the air is filled with a sense of celebration.
- Culture: This is also harvest season, adding cultural richness as farmers bring in their crops. The atmosphere is joyous and vibrant.
🌧️ Monsoon (June to Early September)
Monsoon is often overlooked, but it has its own unique charm, appealing to those who appreciate lush greenery beyond just the Himalayas.
- Greenery: You will experience exceptionally green hills, thick forests, gushing rivers, and powerful waterfalls plunging down the cliffs.
- Post-Rain Views: After a rain shower, the sky turns a brilliant blue, revealing sparkling, snow-capped mountains and a burst of color from wildflowers on the high pastures.
Important Note: If you are squeamish about leeches, the monsoon season may not be for you.
- Safety: While mountain views can be obscured by clouds during the height of the monsoon, the trekking itself is still enjoyable, as this specific route does not typically face major landslide hazards.
❄️ Winter (December to February)
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal's most popular trekking destinations in the winter season. It offers a spectacular landscape for those who enjoy playing in the snow and desire white, pristine scenery.
- Scenery: The mountains, trails, and landscapes are covered in a beautiful blanket of snow, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
- Considerations: Winter trekking requires extra attention to gear, such as warm clothing, crampons, and gaiters.
- Views: While the path to the very top—Mardi Himal Viewpoint and Base Camp—may occasionally be closed due to heavy snow, the views from Badal Danda and High Camp remain breathtakingly beautiful.
Our trekking package photos and available videos are authentic representations of the trail experience in various seasons.
Trip Gallery
4 Days Mardi Himal Trek video
Itinerary
Our 4-day Mardi Himal Trek is a leisurely and scenic adventure through the Annapurna Region. This shorter itinerary is perfect for those seeking a taste of the Himalayas without the intense physical demands of longer treks. Enjoy stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak) and the Annapurna range as you hike through peaceful forests and rhododendron-filled trails. The trek's moderate elevation and manageable length make it suitable for beginners and families. Experience the tranquility of nature and create lasting memories on this unforgettable journey. Starting from Kathmandu, you can check the optional itinerary plan, which is from Kathmandu to Kathmandu.
- Day: 1
Pokhara- Kalimati and Trek to Rest Camp 2605 M.
Our guide will pick you up from your hotel or given address around 8:30 in the morning. We will then drive from Pokhara to Kalimati village. The road is a mix of paved and bumpy sections, but our experienced local drivers are very familiar with the terrain. (We exclusively use local vehicles for this reason, as their drivers know every section and corner of the road.)
Upon reaching Kalimati, we will stop for lunch. From here, you can enjoy clear views of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the beautiful green landscapes.
After lunch, we will begin our hike towards Rest Camp. While we will pass Forest Camp, we will continue for another 45 minutes to reach Rest Camp, which offers far superior views. As we ascend, enjoy the stunning landscapes and panoramic vistas back towards Pokhara. We will spend the night at Rest Camp.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers flying from Kathmandu who want to begin trekking the same day they land in Pokhara. By securing an early morning flight ticket, you can arrive in Pokhara well before noon. We will manage your airport pickup, arrange for your luggage storage in Pokhara, and ensure you are driven directly to the trailhead to start your adventure without delay. - Day: 2
Rest Camp Trek to Mardi Himal High Camp 3550 M.
Wake up to the stunning sight of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) right before you and enjoy a beautiful sunrise. After a breakfast of your choice (selected from the menu), we will begin our trek towards High Camp.
The initial hike to Badal Danda (Middle Camp) winds through a serene forest. Upon emerging from Badal Danda, the trail ascends above the tree line, revealing magnificent, unobstructed views of Mount Annapurna, Heuchuli, Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and vast, green grasslands.
We will stop for lunch in Badal Danda before continuing our journey to High Camp, the final destination for the day. Once there, you can explore the area and capture beautiful pictures of the dramatic landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas. We recommend an early night to rest for the next morning's early wake-up call.
- Day: 3
High Camp Trek to Mardi Viewpoint (4200 M) and Trek Back to Middle Camp (3210 M)
This morning, we will wake up early to catch the sunrise from Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,200 m (13,779 ft). The morning hike is an ascent of 2 to 3 hours. You may experience some breathing difficulties, but we will hike slowly and steadily.
After the sunrise, our plan is to first explore Mardi Himal Viewpoint and then continue to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m / 14,764 ft) before returning back to High Camp. Please note that for safety reasons, we will skip Mardi Himal Base Camp and return directly from the Viewpoint during the winter and monsoon seasons.
This viewpoint is the highest point of our trek and offers the best views of the entire trip. Be sure to take amazing pictures, and don't forget to strike a fun or crazy pose to make them even more memorable!
We will then hike back to High Camp for tea and breakfast before continuing our descent to Middle Camp (Badal Danda). This is the second-best viewpoint on the trek and is well worth a stop. We will then have an easy walk to Middle Camp, where we will spend the night.
- Day: 4
Middle Camp Trek to Siding via Low Camp.
Enjoy the sunrise and the beautiful mountain views one last time before beginning your trek down to Siding Village. You will have lunch either in Siding or upon arrival in Pokhara.
Once in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel (accommodation is at your own expense). The rest of the evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure—you might wish to go for a walk, get a massage, or enjoy some drinks.
Since your arrival in Pokhara will be around 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM, you can certainly take a flight to Kathmandu on your final day. To ensure you have a comfortable buffer for traffic and check-in, we suggest booking a flight with a departure time of 3:20 PM or later (up to 4:00 PM). Kindly notify us in advance so we can arrange for your direct transfer to the Pokhara Domestic Airport.
If you would like company to make further plans or to explore the area, please feel free to let your guide know or contact us at any time.
What's Included
- Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
- 3 Nights Accommodation during the trek (local lodge)
- Seasoned Fresh Fruits
- The government registered an English-speaking trekking guide.
- Annapurna Conservation Park fees, TIMS Card, and government taxes.
- Insurance, allowances for guide.
- Private transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek
- First Aid Kit for the Short Mardi Himal Trek.
- Mardi Himal Trekking Map.
What’s Excluded
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
- Personal gear (Bagpack) and clothing (available on hire)
- Tips for the Guide (not fixed as per your wish).
- Porter to carry luggage.
- Any expenses incurred in an emergency evacuation or roadblock due to any reason
- Table drinks and snacks while walking
- Personal travel insurance.
- Services other than those mentioned above.
FAQs
- Packing list for the Short Mardi Himal Trek
No specialized mountaineering gear is required, but the right equipment is key to your comfort and safety. The essential concept is layering. You will need sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated jacket, and a waterproof shell. Also crucial are a daypack, headlamp, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, and warm accessories like a hat and gloves. For a complete, printable packing checklist, please see our detailed guide on our website.
- Will I be safe on this Trek if I am traveling alone?
Absolutely. Nepal is a very safe country for solo travelers, and we have extensive experience guiding them. Your safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained professionals, and you can feel completely secure in their care. We encourage you to read our customer testimonials from other solo travelers for further peace of mind.
- Does Mardi Trek meet my criteria for luxury?
To be clear, the Mardi Himal Trek is an authentic tea-house experience, which means the lodges themselves are comfortable but not luxurious.
However, we elevate your trek far beyond a standard budget trip by including all the essential comfort services in your package cost. This means your hot drinks, showers, Wi-Fi access, and device charging are all pre-arranged and covered. You also enjoy meals from the menu, complete with soup and dessert.
The key benefit is hassle-free comfort. You won't need to carry extra cash or negotiate for these services. Your guide handles all the logistics and payments, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
For treks that feature luxury lodges with en-suite facilities, we recommend our premium Ghorepani Ghandruk or Everest itineraries."
- Cellphone or WIFI connections are available
The majority of tea shops don't have WiFi because of the lightning, although some tea shops do offer WiFi via mobile data. Throughout the trek, our guide will be in contact with us at all times, so if you wish to connect with family, he or she may assist you.
- What if I want to shower while hiking?
On the short Mardi Himal Trek, it is available everywhere, although the fee for the shower is an additional $1 to $5.
- Do I need Travel Insurance for the Mardi Himal Trek?
"Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for your safety and is a requirement to join this trek. Your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation and medical expenses for high-altitude trekking up to [4,500 meters]. In the unlikely event you feel unwell, please inform your guide immediately. They are trained to assess the situation and will take the most appropriate action to ensure your well-being.
To help you choose, we have curated a list of recommended insurance providers based on feedback and successful claims from our past customers. You can follow the link below to find a policy that best suits your needs."
- What Is The Tea-House Accommodation Like?
A tea house is a simple, family-run lodge that provides an authentic and comfortable Himalayan experience. Rooms are typically basic, with two single beds featuring a mattress, pillow, and blankets. On the Mardi Himal Trek, bathrooms are shared. As a general rule, amenities become more basic the higher you ascend, but the accommodation remains cozy. Meals are ordered from a menu and are prepared fresh, offering a delicious mix of local staples like Dal Bhat and popular international dishes like pasta, momos, and pizza.
- Can I Rent Gear In Pokhara?
Yes, you can easily rent or buy trekking gear in Pokhara, which is very convenient as your trek starts there. Our guides can assist you in finding a reputable rental shop upon your arrival. While a wider selection of authentic, branded gear (like The North Face or Columbia) is typically found in Kathmandu's Thamel area, Pokhara offers numerous shops with quality, affordable options that are perfectly suitable for the trek.
- How Difficult Is The Trek For A Complete Beginner?
The 4-day Mardi Himal Trek is an excellent choice for beginners. Many of our past guests have been first-time trekkers who have completed it successfully. While the trail involves the expected uphill and downhill walking common in Nepal, much of the ascent has been made easier with recently built stone steps. The itinerary is designed to be manageable, and we've even had families with children complete it with ease. If you prefer a more relaxed pace to soak in the scenery, we also offer 5 or 7-day itineraries that provide extra time for acclimatization and enjoyment.
- Do I Need A Porter?
A porter is not mandatory, but it is one of the best ways to enhance your comfort and enjoyment on the trek. The decision depends on your personal preference for a challenging or a relaxed journey.
For seasoned trekkers used to carrying a full pack, a porter may be optional. However, for beginners or those who wish to walk light, focus on photography, and fully absorb the scenery, hiring a porter is highly recommended.
A porter can carry 15–20 kg of shared luggage for two trekkers, allowing you to hike with just a light daypack. This significantly reduces physical strain and helps prevent fatigue. Hiring a porter is also a direct form of sustainable tourism. It provides valuable income to a local individual and their family, enriching the community you are visiting.
Beyond carrying bags, porters often become wonderful companions. They are intuitive and observant, adapting to your pace and needs. Their cheerful presence can add a unique and memorable cultural dimension to your adventure.
In short, a porter transforms your trek from a physically demanding effort into a more relaxed, enjoyable, and culturally immersive experience.
Useful Information
🏔️ Acclimatization & Health
Trekking is, by nature, a charming and exciting journey, and the plan is tailored according to the geography and itinerary of the destination. This 4-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary typically does not pose a high risk of severe altitude sickness (AMS). However, mild headaches due to cold and other factors are common. Based on our experience, only about 20% of trekkers show mild AMS symptoms.
If you feel that this itinerary is too challenging or too short for your physical condition, we offer a 5-day Mardi Himal Trek package that allows for better acclimatization.
Hydration is critical: Please drink a minimum of 3–4 liters of water per day.
Pre-Trek Preparation: Before the trip, we highly recommend practicing breathing exercises at home or a yoga center, swimming, and cycling to build stamina.
Diamox (Acetazolamide): This medication is commonly used for AMS, but please consult your personal doctor before taking it, as some people experience side effects.
💵 Money Expenses
There are no ATMs once you leave Pokhara by road, so you must carry cash (Nepali Rupees—NPR) for easy transactions on the trail. Please exchange currency or withdraw cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Cash will be needed for extra expenses like snacks, hot/cold water, battery charging, and showers.
These costs are reasonable, but you should budget approximately NPR 2,000 to NPR 3,000 per day for miscellaneous expenses.
Water: Mineral water bottles are not permitted on this route. You can purchase boiled or filtered water from teahouses. We also recommend bringing water purification tablets or drops for extra security.
🚶 On the Trail (Trekking Tips)
Pacing: Establish your own steady pace, which is the popular Nepali trekking motto: “Bistarai Bistarai” (slowly, slowly). This is a journey, not a marathon. Focus on each step and synchronize your breathing with nature.
Enjoy the View: Whether you are an avid photographer or prefer to observe, take your time to enjoy every peak and corner of nature with your eyes. This mindfulness makes even a difficult journey feel easier.
Daypack: Even if your package includes a porter, you must carry your own small daypack. Please ensure it contains water, a windproof jacket, rain gear, and personal snacks. Porters generally walk slightly ahead after lunch to prepare your room at the next destination.
Trekking Poles: We recommend bringing trekking poles. They greatly assist with stability and reduce strain on your knees on both ascents and descents. If you find your poles or small pack burdensome, feel free to ask your guide for assistance; they are happy to help carry light loads.
🏡 Culture and Logistics
Accommodations and Heating
Heating and Bathrooms: Rooms in the teahouses on this trekking route do not have room heating or attached bathrooms at this time.
Common Area Heating: Heat is provided in the dining area by a central fire/stove (Bukhari), which typically operates until around 9:00 PM. After that, the space is often used as a sleeping area for the guides and porters.
Electric Blankets: While electric blankets are now available on high-altitude routes like Everest, they are not currently common on the Mardi Himal Trek.
Environmental Responsibility
Trash: While not all Nepali people have adopted proper waste disposal practices yet, as responsible tourists, please carry your own trash and dispose of it at designated teahouse bins, or ideally, carry it all the way back to Pokhara.
Other Logistics
Luggage: We will provide you with a duffel bag for your trekking gear, which your porter will carry. Your extra luggage can be stored securely at your Pokhara hotel (we will assist with this arrangement).
Charging/Power: Electricity on this route is provided primarily by solar power. Charging batteries and providing general lighting can sometimes be challenging during periods of heavy cloud cover or cold weather. It is highly advisable to carry a power bank.
Communication: We recommend purchasing an NTC or NCELL SIM card at the airport. While the signal quality may not be excellent everywhere, their data services will help you stay updated and connected.
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Reviews
An ACE Guide, an Amazing Trek: Our Mardi Himal Journey
- Oliver and Emma, United KingdomWe just did the Mardi Himal trek with Rugged Trails. It was so amazing; the views are incredible, and the scenery is incredible. The walk is really peaceful; it takes you through landscapes and the guide, Shrawan, was brilliant. Shrawan was ACE! Absolute once-in-a-lifetime experience; we might come back again.
Life time experince with Rugged Trails Nepal
- Juan Diaz, ColombiaMy girlfriend and I booked a full week of activities with Rugged Trails, including the 3 days Himal Trek and a jungle safari in Chitwan. The whole process went smoothly, and the Rugged staff were always willing to help us logistically. Also, our tour guides in the mountains and jungle were nice and patient. I highly recommend the agency if you want to book a relaxing holiday.
Mardi Himal Trek has been amazing
- Brynn Karch, United StatesNamaste, Nirajan! Checking in from high camp. Just wanted to thank you again for accommodating my delays and allowing me to go on this trek! It has been amazing; definitely, the Mardi Himal trek was a wonderful choice, and thank you for your suggestions.