Mardi Himal Trek is among the best short treks in Nepal. Calm, pretty, and excellent for the ones folks who want to enjoy the Himalayas within a quick time. Even though the trek lasts merely 4 days, snowy mountains, green forests, and beautiful sunrises as seen in this photo also occur.
The Mardi Himal Trek has gained immense popularity in the past few years as it is less crowded than both the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp treks. Additionally the path is easy and beginner-friendly with average fitness abilities.
Whether you are looking for a 2026 trip to the Himalayan short trip or know about all things regarding the Mardi Himal trekking itinerary, cost, terrain, and maps; do not worry we have it all before this guide.
Nepal is full of various trekking routes. Nonetheless, Mardi Himal Trek is unique for many reasons.
Now lets look at the top reasons why choose this trek?
Short and easy trekking route
Perfect for beginners
Amazing mountain views
Less crowded trail
Beautiful rhododendron forests
Affordable trekking cost
Close to Pokhara
this trek gives you insane sightsview of:
Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
Annapurna South
Hiunchuli
Mardi Himal
Annapurna
This is the main reason amongst trekkers that leads them to call it one of Nepal's best kept secret gems.
It lies safely inside the Annapurna region of Nepal as well. The trek begins from either Kande or Phedi near Pokhara and ends at Siding village.
Pokhara → Kande → Forest Camp → Low Camp → High Camp → Mardi Himal Base Camp → Siding→ Pokhara
It travels through forests , hills and mountain ridges. Thus, trekkers have a new landscape each day.
It is ideal for those who have less time to spend traveling but will like every bit of the full trek experience.
Duration:
5-6 hours trek
Highlights:
Beautiful forest walk
Rhododendron trees
Peaceful trail
You first drive from Pokhara - Kande. After that, the trekking begins. The path passes through small hamlets and woods before arriving at Forest Camp,
Duration:
6-7 hours trek
Highlights:
Mountain ridge walking
Great views of Machhapuchhre
Fresh mountain air
The higher you get the thinner the forest. In no time at all,glimpse snow capped mountains in full view. Thus, this day is one of the most thrilling days during the whole trek.
Duration:
7-8 hours trek
Highlights:
Sunrise view
Mardi Himal Base Camp
Stunning Himalayan panorama
We began our trek with a breathtaking view, and observing the sun rise on the mountains was indeed very memorable.
Duration:
4-5 hours
Highlights:
Village life
Scenic jeep drive
Relaxing ending
Finally, you board a jeep from Siding to Pokhara. After Pokhara, time for lakeside cafes, food and relaxation.
How much does the Mardi Himal trek cost in Nepal ?
It all depends on your travel style. There are people who take up budget trekkers while there are some extremely uptown packages.
This Table shows the cost for Mardi Himal Trek:
|
Item |
Cost (USD) |
|
TIMS Card & Permit |
$30-40 |
|
Transportation |
$20-40 |
|
Accommodation |
$8-20 per night |
|
Guide |
$25-35 per day |
|
Porter |
$20-25 per day |
Total Estimated Cost
Budget Trek: $180 - 250
Standard Trek: $300 - 450
Luxury Trek: $600 +
Note:Traveling in a group can help lower the cost.
The best time to visit Nepal for Mardi Himal trek is based on Selection of the season is extremely critical.
Spring has the most votes. Great weather with blooming rhododendron flowers.
Fall provides the nicest mountain vistas and climate stability. So most of the trekkers prefer this season.
In the Winter it is colder, yet the mountains are very crisp. Snow may impact the trail .
Rain makes the trail slippery. You can find lots of leeches in woodlands.
The trek is considered moderate. Which means it can be done by beginners with moderate fitness.
But there are some pretty steep uphills...So the rule of thumb is to walk slowly and rest well.
Good Preparation Tips
Walk daily before the trek
Drink enough water
Carry light bags
Wear proper trekking shoes
Get enough sleep
Mardi Himal Trek Packing List
If you prepare smartly, the trek transforms into a more agreeable not too far off.
This list may be really helpful for the trek:
Clothes
Warm jacket
Trekking pants
Gloves
Thermal wear
Rain jacket
Trekking Gear
Backpack
Trekking poles
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Headlamp
Personal Items
Sunscreen
Power bank
First aid kit
Snacks
Additionally to travelling comfortably, light luggage allows you to walk more comfortably.
Tea houses are scattered across the route. They are simple but comfortable.
Common Food Items
Dal Bhat
Fried rice
Noodles
Pancakes
Tea and coffee
All rooms have twin beds draped with blankets. Note: Bathrooms are often shared at higher camps.
The trek requires two permits.
Required Permits
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card
These permits enable the preservation of the trekking region and protect the trekkers.
It is completed by thousands of trekkers every year.
That said, safety tips should still be heeded carefully.
Safety Tips:
If possible Trek with a guide
Check weather forecasts
Don’t walk alone in night
Keep drinking water
Carry warm clothes
Also, we suggest getting travel insurance.
In 2026, as travelers are interested in shorter and serene trekking trails. Hence the growing popularity of Mardi Himal as one of the best treks in Nepal.
Mardi Himal offers peace of nature away from hustle and bustle environments, fresh air, natural beauty and close views of the mountain which are not available in crowded trails. Including, with a short itinerary, it is perfect for students, families and working travelers.
The Mardi Himal Trek is such a trek that allows an amazing experience in the mountains within a relatively short period of time. Each aspect of the trek makes people admire themselves because everything here is amazing from the silence of the forest and the tiny tea houses to the panoramic views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna.
To make your trekking experience hassle - free and enjoyable, join Summit Solution Treks & Expedition in your next adventure.
The trek is moderate. It is easy for normal fitness beginners.
Other than that, the Mardi Himal trek Journey could be 40 - 50 kilometers (25 - 31 miles) excluding, depending on the route and schedule you select.
It is not necessary to take a guide but you are strongly suggested for the safety and for the help of local people in the region.
Altitude sickness occurs somewhat less frequently, but again proper rest and hydration are important.
It is Famous for its short duration trek and almost all semi-inhabited trails.
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