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Overview And Highlights
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.
🌟 Highlights:
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Spectacular sunrise over Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal
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Off-the-beaten-path trail with fewer tourists
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Dense rhododendron and oak forests (especially stunning in spring)
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Panoramic ridgeline walk to High Camp and viewpoint
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Authentic village homestays and cozy mountain lodges
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Starts and ends in Pokhara – no long drive from Kathmandu needed
📅 Best Seasons:
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Spring (March–May): Rhododendron in bloom, clear skies, and ideal temperatures
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Autumn (September–November): Crisp weather, excellent mountain views
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Can be done in Winter (Dec–Feb) with proper gear and guidance
Itinerary Expand All Close All
Begin with a scenic drive to Kande, followed by an uphill hike through oak and rhododendron forest to reach Forest Camp.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
2540
Trek through Low Camp and Middle Camp with gradual ascents. As you gain altitude, the vegetation thins and the view opens up dramatically.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
3580
Start pre-dawn to catch sunrise over Mardi, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre. Descend back to Low Camp for the night.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
4200
Descend via a different route through traditional villages and forests. Enjoy a cultural stay in Siding.
Food
BLD
Accomodation
Teahouse
Elevation
1850
After breakfast, drive back to Pokhara and end the trek.
Food
BLD
Elevation
950
What Is Included ?
Transportation:
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Private vehicle Pokhara to Kande and Siding to Pokhara
Accommodation:
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4 nights in mountain lodges (twin sharing basis)
Meals:
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Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
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Tea/coffee (3 cups per day)
Guide/Staff:
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Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
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Porter (1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
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Staff insurance, wages, and equipment
Permits:
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ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) Permit
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TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card
Others:
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First aid kit
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Annapurna Encounter duffel bag (returnable)
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Farewell dinner in Pokhara
What Is Excluded?
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Personal trekking gear and insurance
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Extra meals and beverages beyond the plan
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Tips for guide and porter
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Emergency evacuation (can be claimed via insurance)
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Hotel stay in Pokhara before/after the trek
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Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging at lodges (available at extra cost)
Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara – 5 Days Altitude Profile
FAQs
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
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4 nights’ accommodation in microlodges/tea‑houses (twin/triple sharing)
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Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trekking
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Private transport from Pokhara to the trailhead and back
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Licensed guide and porter, with insurance and wages included
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All required trekking permits (ACAP) and taxes/carriers fees
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Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande (~1.5 hrs), trek to Forest Camp (~2,540 m, 5–6 hrs)
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Day 2: Trek to High Camp (~3,580 m, 6–7 hrs)
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Day 3: Early start to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (~4,200 m) then descend to Low Camp (6–7 hrs)
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Day 4: Descend via Siding Village (~1,850 m, 4–5 hrs)
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Day 5: Drive back to Pokhara (~3 hrs)
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Spring (March–May): Rhododendrons in bloom, clear mountain views
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Autumn (September–November): Crisp, stable weather and excellent visibility
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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.
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First-time trekkers
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People on limited time wanting a Himalayan experience in 5 days
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Those looking for less crowded, off‑beat trails in the Annapurna region
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Sunrise views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, and nearby peaks
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Lush trails through dense rhododendron, oak, bamboo forests, alpine meadows
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A ridgeline walk to High Camp and viewpoints above the clouds
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Cultural touchpoints in Siding Village, along the trail
Recommended gear includes:
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Layers (thermal, fleece, wind‑/rain‑proof)
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Hiking/trekking boots
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Sleeping bag (if preferred)
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Trekking poles, headlamp, water purifier/tablets
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Basic first‑aid, sunglasses, gloves, hat, extra batteries, snacks, cash, permit documentation
