Short on time but dreaming of real Himalayan scenery? The 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara is the answer. In just four days you will climb from lush rhododendron forest to a 4,500 m alpine viewpoint, watching sunrise paint Machapuchare and Annapurna South in gold, before returning to Pokhara's lakeside by early afternoon on Day 4.
Mardi Himal (5,587 m) sits between the popular Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill trails, yet sees a fraction of the foot traffic. Opened to trekkers only in 2012, the Mardi ridge is one of Nepal's last genuinely off-the-beaten-path short treks. Best of all? You can do the full trek in just 4 days Mardi Himal Trek starting and ending in Pokhara, making it one of the most accessible and rewarding short treks in all of Nepal.
This guide, written by local experts at Trip Pokhara, covers everything: full itinerary, costs, permits, best season, packing list, and honest beginner tips.
2026 Regulation Notice
Nepal Tourism Board now requires all foreign trekkers, including Indian nationals, to be accompanied by a licensed guide. Trip Pokhara provides only government-certified, TAAN-registered guides. Contact us at trippokhara.com/contact to confirm your booking.
Most trekkers visiting Nepal have limited time. A full Annapurna Circuit takes 12–20 days; Annapurna Base Camp requires 7–10 days. The short Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara compresses a full Himalayan experience into just 4 days, without sacrificing the wow factor.
Here's why thousands of trekkers every year are choosing this route:
Whether you're a first-time trekker from India, a solo traveler from Europe, or a family looking for a manageable Himalayan adventure, this trek is tailor-made for you.
Tea House
Drive: Pokhara → Kande (45–60 min)
Trek: Kande → Australian Camp → Forest Camp
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~9–10 km
Your adventure begins early morning. After a hearty breakfast at your Pokhara hotel, your Trip Pokhara guide and porter meet you at the hotel and you head to Kande by private vehicle.
Your guide and porter meet you at your Pokhara hotel after breakfast. A 45–60 minute private vehicle ride takes you to the trailhead at Kande (1,770 m).
The first section to Australian Camp (2,100 m) passes through terraced fields with sweeping views back over the Pokhara valley. Beyond Australian Camp the trail enters beautiful rhododendron and oak forest, alive with birdsong and, in spring, explosions of red and pink bloom, climbing steadily to Forest Camp (2,550 m).
Insider Tip: Start early, the forest section is longer than it looks on the map. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and save energy for Day 2.
MEALS
Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Tea House
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: ~7.7 km
Elevation Gain: ~590 m
This is one of the most rewarding days of the trek, featuring a steady climb through increasingly alpine terrain. As you ascend, the dense forest gradually gives way to open landscapes and breathtaking mountain views.
You’ll pass through:
The final stretch to High Camp is steep and physically demanding, but the panoramic scenery makes it all worthwhile. On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Gangapurna, and Mardi Himal stretching across the horizon.
Altitude Note: Some trekkers feel mild headaches at High Camp. Drink plenty of water, rest well, and alert your guide if you feel unwell.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Tea House
Trek Route: High Camp → Viewpoint → Base Camp → descent to Low Camp
Trekking Time: 7–9 hours
Distance: ~12–14 km
Rise before dawn, this is the highlight of your entire trek.
Bundled in warm layers, you’ll follow the narrow ridge above High Camp toward the Mardi Himal Viewpoint. The early morning climb is steep and exposed, but incredibly rewarding.
What you’ll see from the top:
After spending time at the top soaking in the views and capturing photos, you’ll begin your descent. The return journey follows the same ridge before dropping back through alpine terrain and into forested sections.
The descent to Low Camp is long but gradual, offering a completely different perspective of the landscape. You’ll spend the night at Low Camp (2,990 m).
Pack your camera fully charged, this day is pure photography gold.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner Tea House
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: ~8-10 km
Your final day begins with a scenic descent from Low Camp toward Siding village. After breakfast, you’ll follow a peaceful trail through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests, gradually leaving the alpine region behind.
The route to Siding is quieter and more traditional, passing through small settlements and offering a glimpse into local village life. The descent is mostly downhill and easier compared to previous days, making for a relaxing end to your trek.
Upon reaching Siding (1,750 m), your vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Pokhara.
The drive takes around 2–3 hours, bringing you back to Pokhara by early afternoon. You can spend the rest of the day unwinding by Phewa Lake, exploring Lakeside, or enjoying a well-earned meal after completing your trek.
MEALS Breakfast/ Lunch/ DinnerGet a Custom Quote from Trip Pokhara → We tailor every trek to your pace, budget, and fitness level.
One of the most common questions we get at Trip Pokhara is: "How far is Mardi Himal from Pokhara?"
Here's a clear breakdown:
The elevation gain is significant, from about 2,100 m at Australian Camp to 4,500 m at Mardi Himal Base Camp, but the ascent is gradual and manageable for fit beginners with proper acclimatization.
The complete route follows the Mardi Himal ridge east-northeast from Kande, running parallel to, and providing views into, the Modi Khola valley toward Annapurna Base Camp.
Pokhara (827 m) → Kande (1,770 m) → Australian Camp (2,100 m) → Forest Camp (2,550 m) → Low Camp (2,990 m) → Badal Danda (3,210 m) → High Camp (3,580 m) → Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m) → Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m)
|
Segment
|
Distance
|
Time
|
|
Pokhara to Kande (by road) |
~25–27 km |
45–60 min drive |
|
Kande to Australian Camp |
~2 km |
1–1.5 hrs |
|
Australian Camp to Forest Camp |
~7–8 km |
4–5 hrs |
|
Forest Camp to Low Camp |
~3–4 km
|
2–3 hrs
|
|
Low Camp to High Camp |
~4–5 km |
3–4 hrs |
|
High Camp to Viewpoint |
~2–3 km |
2–3 hrs |
|
Viewpoint to Base Camp |
~1–1.5 km |
1–1.5 hrs |
|
|
~20–22 km |
— |
|
|
~40–45 km |
— |
The Mardi Himal trek difficulty is classified as moderate, making it accessible to both novice and experienced trekkers. The trek involves daily walks of 5 to 7 hours, with some steep ascents, especially as you approach the Mardi Himal Base Camp.
No technical climbing skills required
Gradual altitude gain allows proper acclimatization
Well-established tea house infrastructure along the route
Suitable for first-time trekkers with good fitness levels
While prior trekking experience is not necessary, a good level of physical fitness is recommended due to the trek's high altitude and varied terrain. This way, the Mardi Himal trek difficulty feels ideal even for first-time trekkers who want to experience the Himalayas without the extremes of the Everest Base Camp Trek.
One of the best things about this trek is how affordable it is. Here's a transparent breakdown of Mardi Himal Trek cost from Pokhara:
|
Package Type |
Cost Per Person |
|
Budget Package (group, basic teahouses) |
USD 280–350 |
|
Standard Package (semi-private, comfortable teahouses) |
USD 380–480 |
|
Premium/Private Package (private guide, best lodges) |
USD 500–650 |
All packages include: guide, porter (up to 10 kg), ACAP permit, e-TIMS card, teahouse accommodation, all meals, and private transport to/from trailhead.
|
Expense |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
|
ACAP Permit |
~$30 |
|
TIMS Card |
~$20 |
|
Teahouse accommodation per night |
$8–15/night |
|
Meals per day (3 meals) |
$15–25/day |
|
Guide (per day) |
$25–35/day |
|
Porter (per day) |
$18–25/day |
|
Transport Pokhara–Kande (return) |
$20–30 |
|
Estimated Total (4 days, DIY) |
$200–350 |
Budget Tip: The trek is significantly cheaper if you do it in a group. Trip Pokhara offers great group rates, contact us for a personalized quote.
Indian trekkers are among the most frequent visitors to Nepal, and the good news is that Indians enjoy some special cost advantages on this trek:
|
Package |
INR (Approx.) |
|
Budget Group Package |
₹25,000 – ₹35,000 |
|
Standard Package |
₹32,000 – ₹40,000 |
|
Premium Private Package |
₹42,000 – ₹55,000 |
Permit costs for SAARC nationals: ACAP Permit ~NPR 1,500 (~₹1,000) · e-TIMS Card ~NPR 500 when booked through Trip Pokhara.
Indians can also fly directly to Pokhara from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Bangalore,making the 4-day Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara easily accessible without needing to first go to Kathmandu.
Before setting out on the Mardi Himal Trek, trekkers must obtain two mandatory permits:
1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Issued by the Nepal Tourism Board, this permit grants entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area. The current fee is NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 22) for foreign nationals and NPR 1,000 for SAARC nationals.
2. TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) Required for all trekkers in Nepal, the TIMS card helps authorities track trekkers for safety purposes. It costs NPR 2,000 (approx. USD 15) for independent trekkers and NPR 1,000 for those trekking through a registered agency.
Trip Pokhara arranges both permits on your behalf, you don't need to queue at any office. As of 2026, e-TIMS cards must be issued through a registered trekking agency.
Both permits can be obtained in Kathmandu (at the Nepal Tourism Board office, Pradarshani Marg) or in Pokhara (at the Tourism Service Center, Damside). Carry passport-sized photos and a copy of your passport when applying.
Important Notes for 2026
You don't need expedition-level gear for this trek, but being well-prepared is key.
Nepal has distinct trekking seasons, and so does Mardi Himal weather, and choosing the right time matters:
The most popular mardi himal trekking season. Temperatures are mild, rhododendron forests are in full bloom (stunning reds and pinks), and the mountain views are generally clear in the mornings. Trails are busy but manageable.
Post-monsoon clarity makes this the other prime season. Skies are crisp and blue, views are at their sharpest, and the weather is stable. October is the single busiest and most popular month for Himalayan trekking in Nepal.
High Camp gets snow and temperatures drop sharply at night (-10°C or lower). The trail to the viewpoint may be challenging. However, the skies are often crystal clear and the trek is uncrowded. Experienced winter trekkers may enjoy this period.
Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and leechy. Mountain views are obstructed by clouds. The trek is possible but not enjoyable for most trekkers.
Our Recommendation
Choose the 4-day itinerary unless you have previously trekked above 4,000 m. The extra day transforms a pressured slog into a genuinely magical experience. Trip Pokhara also offers 3-day and 5-day options, contact us for a custom plan.
Trip Pokhara is a locally owned, government-registered trekking company based in Pokhara, the gateway city for the Annapurna region. Here's why hundreds of trekkers trust us every year:
Contact Trip Pokhara Now - Plan Your Mardi Himal Trek Today!
If you want to do the Mardi Himal Trek shortest route, the classic Kande trailhead approach described in this guide is already the most direct. However, there are a few ways to shorten or customize the trek:
This compresses the trek but involves longer daily hikes and less time to acclimatize, not recommended for beginners.
This trek is perfect for first-timers, but a few key tips will make it even better: 1. Hire a licensed guide. Not only does it enhance your safety, but a local guide adds incredible depth to your experience, explaining culture, wildlife, and mountain geography along the way. Trip Pokhara provides TAAN-certified English-speaking guides. 2. Walk slowly and steadily. The golden rule of Himalayan trekking: slow down. "Bistari bistari" (slowly slowly) is the Nepali trekking mantra. Rushing causes exhaustion and altitude problems. 3. Stay hydrated. Drink at least 3–4 liters of water per day, especially above 3,000 m. Avoid alcohol on the trail. 4. Listen to your body. Mild headache at High Camp is common. If symptoms worsen, especially breathlessness at rest, confusion, or loss of coordination, descend immediately and alert your guide. 5. Eat what's available. Teahouse menus are surprisingly good, dal bhat, pasta, soups, eggs, and local noodle dishes. Dal bhat (lentil rice) is the perfect energy meal; many teahouses offer free refills. 6. Start trekking from Pokhara with no rush. Arrive in Pokhara a day early to acclimatize to the lower altitude and explore the beautiful lakeside city before heading out. 7. Carry cash. ATMs don't exist on the trail. Withdraw Nepalese Rupees in Pokhara before you depart. Card payments are not accepted at teahouses. 8. Respect the environment. The Annapurna Conservation Area is a protected zone under Nepal's Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. Don't litter, don't pick plants, and minimize plastic use. Carry a reusable water bottle.
The 4 days Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara is, quite simply, one of the best short treks in the world. It's accessible enough for first-timers, dramatic enough to impress seasoned adventurers, and priced so that nearly any budget can make it happen. In just 4 days, you'll walk through forests of rhododendron and bamboo, climb to a high alpine camp beneath Himalayan giants, watch sunrise paint the sky over Machapuchare and Annapurna, and return to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara with a heart full of memories. You don't need months to experience the Himalayas. You just need 4 days, and the right people beside you on the trail. Ready to Trek? Book Your Mardi Himal Trek Today! Contact Trip Pokhara for a Free Custom Quote Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, family, or group, we'll plan the perfect Mardi Himal Trek experience for you. Reach out now and let's make your Himalayan dream a reality.
The Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary typically takes 5 to 7 days. The short Mardi Himal trek option can be completed in 5 days if you're experienced or opt for a faster pace, while the standard itinerary takes 6-7 days.
The Mardi Himal trek difficulty is considered moderate, suitable for beginners with good fitness levels. The trek involves some steep ascents, but doesn't require technical climbing skills, making the Mardi Himal trek difficulty level accessible to those with varying experience.
The best time for Mardi Himal Trek is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and mild temperatures. Autumn provides crystal-clear post-monsoon skies with outstanding mountain views. October and November are particularly popular for the sharpest panoramas.
Although the Mardi Himal trekking route can technically be done independently, hiring a guide is highly recommended. A guide provides safety, cultural insights, navigation expertise, and enriches your understanding of the region along the Mardi Himal trekking route.
The highest point accessible to trekkers on the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp (~4,500 m). Slightly below it, the Mardi Himal Viewpoint (~4,200 m) is a popular sunrise spot offering stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range.
The High Camp (~3,580 m) is the highest accommodation point on the trek, where most trekkers stay before making an early morning hike to the viewpoint and base camp.
There are no ATMs along the Mardi Himal Trek, so it is crucial to carry enough cash with you from Pokhara before starting the trek. Make sure you have sufficient funds for meals, accommodations, and any unforeseen expenses.
Throughout the trek, you will find basic tea houses that provide meals and accommodation. These tea houses offer a comfortable and affordable stay, but facilities may be basic, especially at higher altitudes. Expect simple rooms and shared bathrooms.
You need the ACAP Permit (NPR 3,000 for foreigners / NPR 1,500 for SAARC) and the e-TIMS Card (NPR 2,000 for foreigners / NPR 1,000 for SAARC). Note: e-TIMS cards can only be issued through a registered agency like Trip Pokhara.
Trip Pokhara arranges all permits on your behalf, you don't need to do anything.
Yes, but it’s advisable to trek with a partner or guide for Yes, the Mardi Himal Trek can be done solo, but it is recommended to trek with a partner or guide for safety reasons. The trail is well-marked, but having a companion can make the experience more enjoyable and provide an extra layer of security.safety.
For the Mardi Himal Trek, you should pack essential items such as:
Warm clothing (layers to adjust to varying temperatures)
A sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures (around -10°C)
Trekking poles for stability on the uneven trails
A first aid kit including personal medications, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes
The Mardi Himal Trek is moderate in difficulty but carries risks like altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and slippery trails. Proper acclimatization, choosing the right season, and being physically prepared can minimize these risks. Trekking with a guide is recommended for safety.
Yes! The Mardi Himal and Khopra Danda trek is a popular combination, taking 10-12 days total. Many trekkers also combine the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek with the Mardi Himal trek for a comprehensive Pokhara mountain experience.
Pack layers suitable for Mardi Himal weather, a sleeping bag rated for -10°C to handle Mardi Himal altitude temperatures, sturdy trekking boots, trekking poles, and a first aid kit. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential due to the UV intensity at Mardi Himal altitude.
The Mardi Himal trek is generally safe with proper preparation. The Mardi Himal trek difficulty is moderate, and risks like altitude sickness can be minimized through acclimatization, choosing the right season, and physical preparation. Trekking with a guide is recommended.
The all-inclusive Mardi Himal Trek cost from Pokhara with a reputable agency like Trip Pokhara ranges from USD 280 to USD 650 depending on the package (group vs private, budget vs standard). Independent trekking costs around USD 200–350 including permits, guide, porter, and teahouse stays.
Mardi Himal weather is best during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Spring offers blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides crystal-clear skies. Winter Mardi Himal weather brings snow and cold temperatures, while the monsoon season is wet and not recommended.
The Mardi Himal altitude reaches 4,500 meters at Mardi Base Camp Trek's highest point. The trek gains this Mardi Himal altitude gradually, starting from 822 meters in Pokhara and reaching the Mardi Himal High Camp at 3,550 meters before the final push to base camp.
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