Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara – 5 Days

Overview & Highlights

Trip Facts

Max Elevation4200m

The Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara – 5 Days is one of Nepal's best short treks, offering jaw-dropping mountain views, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to classic routes like Annapurna Base Camp or Poon Hill. Perfect for those with limited time, this trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna region with panoramic views of Mardi Himal (5,587m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.

This off-the-beaten-path adventure begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande or Dhampus and ascends through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rugged ridgelines leading to the Mardi Himal High Camp (3,580m). The highlight of the trek is the early morning hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m) for sunrise – a moment of pure Himalayan magic.

The trek is suitable for beginner to intermediate trekkers who are physically fit. It offers cultural encounters with Gurung and Magar communities and a chance to enjoy peaceful trails and eco-lodges with warm hospitality.

â€” ? Highlights:

Spectacular sunrise over Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal
Off-the-beaten-path trail with fewer tourists
Dense rhododendron and oak forests (especially stunning in spring)
Panoramic ridgeline walk to High Camp and viewpoint
Authentic village homestays and cozy mountain lodges
Starts and ends in Pokhara – no long drive from Kathmandu needed

â€” ? Best Seasons:

Spring (March–May): Rhododendron in bloom, clear skies, and ideal temperatures
Autumn (September–November): Crisp weather, excellent mountain views
Can be done in Winter (Dec–Feb) with proper gear and guidance

Itinerary

Explore the day-by-day plan for your journey.

Transportation:

Private vehicle Pokhara to Kande and Siding to Pokhara

Accommodation:

4 nights in mountain lodges (twin sharing basis)

Meals:

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
Tea/coffee (3 cups per day)

Guide/Staff:

Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
Porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
Staff insurance, wages, and equipment

Permits:

ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card

Others:

First aid kit
Annapurna Encounter duffel bag (returnable)
Farewell dinner in Pokhara

Cost Excludes

Personal trekking gear and insurance
Extra meals and beverages beyond the plan
Tips for guide and porter
Emergency evacuation (can be claimed via insurance)
Hotel stay in Pokhara before/after the trek
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging at lodges (available at extra cost)

Explore the route

Altitude & route map

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Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara – 5 Days Altitude Profile

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful answers for planning this trip with confidence.

The 5???day Mardi Himal trek is considered easy to moderate, suitable for beginners who can walk 5–6 hours per day on hilly terrain

The highest elevation reached is around 4,200???m (viewpoint) or up to 4,500???m at Mardi Himal Base Camp, depending on the exact itinerary

4 nights’ accommodation in microlodges/tea???houses (twin/triple sharing)
Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trekking
Private transport from Pokhara to the trailhead and back
Licensed guide and porter, with insurance and wages included
All required trekking permits (ACAP) and taxes/carriers fees

Day???1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande (~1.5???hrs), trek to Forest Camp (~2,540???m, 5–6???hrs)
Day???2: Trek to High Camp (~3,580???m, 6–7???hrs)
Day???3: Early start to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (~4,200???m) then descend to Low Camp (6–7???hrs)
Day???4: Descend via Siding Village (~1,850???m, 4–5???hrs)
Day???5: Drive back to Pokhara (~3???hrs)

Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons in bloom, clear mountain views
Autumn (September–November): Crisp, stable weather and excellent visibility
It’s also possible in Winter (Dec–Feb) with proper gear—but facilities may be more limited

While the maximum altitude (~4,200–4,500???m) is moderate, altitude sickness is possible. Preventive practices like steady pacing, rest, and hydration are essential. Most itineraries include acclimatisation (e.g. High Camp overnight) to mitigate risk.

First-time trekkers
People on limited time wanting a Himalayan experience in 5 days
Those looking for less crowded, off???beat trails in the Annapurna region

Sunrise views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, and nearby peaks
Lush trails through dense rhododendron, oak, bamboo forests, alpine meadows
A ridgeline walk to High Camp and viewpoints above the clouds
Cultural touchpoints in Siding Village, along the trail

Recommended gear includes:

Layers (thermal, fleece, wind???/rain???proof)
Hiking/trekking boots
Sleeping bag (if preferred)
Trekking poles, headlamp, water purifier/tablets
Basic first???aid, sunglasses, gloves, hat, extra batteries, snacks, cash, permit documentation

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