Embark on an unforgettable 4 days Mardi Himal Trekking, a hidden gem nestled in the eastern Annapurna region. This short yet incredibly rewarding journey offers a unique blend of breathtaking Himalayan views, including close-up perspectives of Mardi Himal and the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), charming local villages, and vibrant rhododendron forests that truly come alive in spring. As one of the least visited trails in the Annapurna region, the Mardi Himal trek provides an intimate and authentic experience, allowing for deeper interaction with the local culture and a serene escape into nature's tranquility. Designed for all levels of hikers including beginners and families, this moderate difficulty trek promises lasting memories of stunning landscapes and unparalleled mountain vistas.
Mardi Himal trekking routes used to be less travelled before but now it's not new anyone. All around the year people love to trek here and it's one of the most trending trekking destination in Nepal Annapurna Region for Nepalese people as well as international hikers. The Mardi Himal trek provides a more intimate and authentic experience. Please note that we will visit fewer local villages during the hike as it is a shorter version of the trek. Nevertheless, depending on the season, it may be possible to observe shepherds and local villages, such as Ghalel, on our return to Siding and during the drive to Pokhara. Designed for all levels of hikers, from beginners to families, this moderately challenging trek promises lasting memories of stunning landscapes and unmatched mountain panoramas.
Why Choose the Short Mardi Himal Trek?
The Mardi Himal trek is highly popular among other trekking routes in Annapurna due to its breathtaking Himalayan views and the ability to reach the viewpoint and Mardi Himal Base Camp within just three days. There is no other trek that takes you to such high altitudes in such a short period. This makes it a perfect destination for travelers looking to escape their busy lives and reconnect with nature and the spirit of the Himalayas. If you've seen pictures of the colossal Mt. Fishtail, appearing nose-to-nose, you will experience that exact view firsthand. While Ghorepani Trekking is another popular short route in Annapurna for sunrise and panoramic mountain views, Mardi Himal pulls you higher, closer to the embrace of the Himalayas, allowing you to truly breathe it in.
This remarkable four-day Mardi Himal Viewpoint journey truly has it all: awe-inspiring mountain vistas and lush vegetation, including Nepal's famous rhododendron forests. Some people even complete the Mardi Himal trek from Pokhara within two days, particularly during the summer when the days are longer. Our team has reached Mardi Himal Base Camp within two days plenty of times, making this trek even shorter for professional hikers who want to challenge themselves within a limited timeframe.
The loop trail, located in the eastern Annapurna region, ascends to a highest point of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). From this vantage point, you'll be surrounded by spectacular views of Mardi Himal (5,587 meters / 18,330 feet) and a multitude of other towering peaks. The adventure begins with a short drive from Pokhara, leading you into dense forests where the crisp, fresh air invigorates you, providing a special energy unique to foothill excursions. In springtime, the sheer brilliance of the native rhododendron flowers, found in vast forests between 1,400 and 3,600 meters, will leave you awestruck.
Highlights of 4 Days Mardi Himal Trekking
- Incredibly beautiful walk through serene landscapes
- Breathtaking Himalayan Views
- Amazing Landscapes, Colorful Mountain villages
- Unbelievable elevation gain in a short time
- Everlasting memories of a walk, nature, and Himalayan views to cherish
What to Expect on the Mardi Himal Trek?
The simple answer is the majestic views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre (6993 meters), Hiunchuli (6441 meters), Baraha Shikhar (7647 meters), Singu Chuli (6501 meters), Annapurna I (8090 meters), and Annapurna South (7219 meters). As we make our way further up, the landscape changes dramatically. From dense subtropical jungles, we emerge onto a ridge above the rolling plains. Now, it's just open air between us and the mountains.
Climb even higher through the alpine meadows to Mardi Himal Base Camp for even more astonishing views. An entire panorama of the Annapurna range will fill your vision. Soak in the views and capture some photos before we begin the descent. You will experience Nepalese mountain hospitality and find new friends on your journey, who will lead and take care of your every step in the Himalayas. You might even begin a new life after meeting many different hikers from all around the world. Your perspective on life might shift, encouraging you to slow down and enjoy every single moment. You're not just going to get great pictures to post on social media – of course, pictures are important – but the life-changing moments will remain with you forever.
4 Days Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Itinerary
- Day 1: Pokhara drive to Pitam Deurali (1,130 m) and Trek to Forest Camp.
- Day 2: Forest Camp Trek to High Camp via Low Camp (2,990 m) 9,809ft and Rest Camp.
- Day 3: Morning Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) 14,764 ft and Trek back to Badal Danda
- Day 4: Badal Danda Trek to Siding (1,750 m) 5,742ft. and Drive to Pokhara.
Scroll down to view a detailed itinerary of the short Mardi Himal trek, with pictures.
4 Days Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek Cost and Booking for 2025 and 2026
Day Tours Nepal's short Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek packages for 2025 and 2026 are listed below. These include a guide, porter, accommodation, and three meals a day during the trek. We prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring our customers receive excellent value for their investment. For group or family trip costs, please feel free to contact us. If you're interested in joining a sharing group and would like to know the cost, please reach out. The 4-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary runs from Pokhara to Pokhara. For those coming from Kathmandu, it's also possible to complete the trek in four days by taking an early morning flight to Pokhara and a late evening flight back to Kathmandu on the fourth day. Flight tickets cost around USD 98 one way per person.
Number of trekkers | Cost in USD (Per person) |
1 | 460 |
2 | 295 |
Short Mardi Himal Trek Hiking Routes
Pokhara, where we start, and the trek ends. The trekking route includes Pitam Deurali, Forest Camp, Rest Camp, Low Camp, Badal Danda, High Camp, Mardi Viewpoint, Mardi Himal Base Camp, and Siding village.
Best Viewpoints For Sunrise/Sunset—Mountains (Photography) Mardi Himal Trek
- Badal Danda—Also called Middle Camp.
- Mardi High Camp
- Mardi Himal Viewpoint
Best Time (Season) For Mardi Himal Trekking
Trekking the Mardi Himal in Nepal is possible throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. While the entire tourism industry understandably focuses on spring and autumn due to their clear skies, we cannot ignore the inherent beauty of these two seasons. However, we also feel compelled to share our personal experiences during monsoon treks, where you'll find an unparalleled lushness in the landscapes, with magnificent mountains surrounded by colorful wildflowers. Winter, too, has a distinct appeal; every tree branch and the path itself can be covered with snow, making you feel as if you've entered a different piece of heaven. We don't want to spoil your holiday plans, but this is a reality that people often don't share. People have varied interests: some might love the flowers, some may prefer the lush green landscapes, and others, of course, will want to experience the snow. While trekking gear might need to be adjusted or purchased for different seasons, our main message is to encourage you to find what genuinely interests you.
The picture of Mardi Himal Viewpoint below is during the winter season.
Is the Mardi Himal trek hard? Is the 4-Day Trek Itinerary Suitable for Beginners?
Our beginner hikers have generally evaluated this journey as being of moderate difficulty. To be honest, if you are primarily a city person with no previous hiking or extensive walking experience, this trek might not be suitable for you. In that case, we recommend choosing the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek instead.
For most trekkers, however, it's considered a straightforward journey when compared to more challenging treks like Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp. There are many stone stairs to climb uphill, and the entire descent occurs on the last day. While Mardi Himal Base Camp is at an altitude of 4500m, you can opt to skip it as the view is often considered far better from the Mardi Himal Viewpoint.
Good physical fitness is required, especially strong legs. A mild headache for first-time trekkers after reaching Mardi Himal High Camp (3780m / 3580m) is quite normal, and there's generally no need to worry about severe high-altitude sickness at this point. Since the Mardi Himal Trip is a teahouse trek, there are plenty of opportunities for rest stops along the way. The route is relatively simple and doesn't require any challenging climbing. However, the best views are only accessible by climbing higher, which does demand some effort.
To reassure you, as we've mentioned before, this trek is also suggested for beginners because many families have successfully completed this 4-day Mardi Himal Trek with their 8 or 9-year-old children. This 4-day itinerary does not include acclimatization days, so if you are concerned about the elevation, it's better to opt for a 5 or 6-day trekking itinerary that includes them. The average walking hours will be 4 to 6 hours daily. Remember to drink plenty of water, at least 3 to 4 liters a day. Practicing yoga, hiking, cycling, or swimming back home before coming on this trek will be very beneficial.
Travel insurance for Mardi Himal Trek
It is strongly urged that you purchase travel insurance for your safety. Your insurance should pay for your medical expenses, trip cancellations owing to anything, and emergency helicopter rescue services.