If you’re looking for one of the best beginner-friendly trekking experiences, Mardi Himal Trek definitely ranks high. Stunning views of Mt. Machapuchre, the chance to reach high altitude, and a route that comes with decent uphills and downhills make it perfect for adventure lovers.
And above all, Mardi Himal Trek is short and can be completed anywhere from 3 to 8 days. In fact, I’ve presented different itineraries here on Travel Nepal Today to make it much easier for you to adjust your timing.
Amongst all, I’m rooting for this Mardi Himal Trek 6 days itinerary from Kathmandu as the best one. Those already in Pokhara may opt for the 4-day itinerary too. Which is also the same.
So, if you’re landed here, congrats! This is the best itinerary you should follow, and the details are coming…
Key Facts About 6-Day Mardi Himal Trek
| Trek Difficulty | Moderate |
| Route Overview | Kathmandu > Pokhara > Pittam Deurali > Rest Camp > High Camp > Sidhing > Pokhara > Kathmandu |
| Best Time | March to June and October to December |
| Suitable For | All |
| Budget | USD 399 to 699 for Foreigners |
| NPR 14,000 to 15,000 for Nepalese |
Mardi Himal Trek 6 Days Itinerary Complete Guide
I had personally chosen the 5-day Mardi Himal itinerary. But honestly speaking, it was a little too rushed. One extra day, and it would have been the best for sure.
You might ask, if it can be completed in 5 days, why I’m suggesting 6 days. Well, that’s because in trekking, you should never ever hurry. It’s more about exploring the places than just reaching the destination.
This 6-day Mardi Himal Trek itinerary is much better for you all, especially because you get some relaxation time while coming downhill. And even if you do it quickly, there’s enough time in Pokhara where you can opt for activities and sightseeing.
Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
| Drive Distance | 200 km |
| Drive Duration | 6 to 7 hours |
| Elevation Gain | -500 m approx. |
Your first day will likely be spent reaching Pokhara itself. You have multiple options for that.
- Via bus: Day and night shifts are available.
- Via passenger van: It gives you the flexibility to choose almost any time. You can even choose an evening one, around 4 PM, which is usually the last one, and reach Prithvi Chowk. This option is best for Nepali office employees. Nowadays, even electric vans operate on this route, so if you’re environmentally concerned, you may opt for that!
- Via flight: Kathmandu to Pokhara domestic flights are the most common option. If you want more comfort, you can definitely choose this.
Even if you reach early via flight or a morning van, you can use this day to explore Pokhara city, which is also the tourism capital of the country.
Or simply hang around the Lakeside area, do the final shopping for your Mardi trek, and definitely don’t miss the sunset if the weather is alright.
Day 2: Pokhara to Pittam Deurali Drive, Reach Rest Camp
| Drive Distance | 28 km |
| Drive Duration | 2 to 2.5 hours |
| Hike Distance | 9 km |
| Hike Duration | 5 to 6 hours |
| Elevation Gain | 1,778 m |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
From Pokhara, you need to first reach the starting point of the Mardi Himal Trek. My preferred option was Pittam Deurali (2,137 m), and I recommend the same.
You can either get a jeep or a bus from Hari Chowk (922 m). I’ve explained about this in another guide related to Mardi Himal trek transportation, so do check that out.
Important: Foreign trekkers are required to show permits halfway. The jeep driver or your own guide will stop you on the way and lead you through the process, so no need to worry. Just remind them if needed. Permits (ACAP) are arranged by the trekking agency or can be applied online via NTNC’s official website.
Upon reaching Pittam Deurali, you’ll start the hike. Stop at Suire Danda (2,440 m) for lunch, then continue to Dhod Kharka (2,559 m), followed by Besal Baari (2,572 m). Within 5 hours (including a 1-hour lunch break), you should reach Forest Camp, aka Kokar (2,448 m).
There should be ample time to push up to Rest Camp (2,700 m). But if you’re trekking in winter, you may have to stay at Forest Camp itself, which is the preferred option for most trekkers.
There are no major attractions today. It’s entirely a forest route, with rhododendron, oak, birch, maple, and hemlock trees.
Day 3: Rest Camp to High Camp
| Hike Distance | 6.5 km |
| Hike Duration | 6 to 7 hours |
| Elevation Gain | 853 m |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
Wake up early today, as the sunrise from Rest Camp is spectacular. In the right season, clouds in the morning can make your experience even more memorable.
Today, you’ll head to Kamkiku (2,793 m), followed by Low Camp (2,970 m), Mid Camp (3,209 m), and Badal Danda (3,300 m). It’s a great spot to pause, and if you’re lucky, the cloud inversion makes you feel like you’re above the clouds.
You can have lunch there or go slightly higher to Low High Camp, aka Upper Badal Danda (3,357 m). These spots bring Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli even more closer!
At the end, it’s a little uphill to reach High Camp (3,553 m). If you’re following this itinerary right, you should be able to reach there before sunset to enjoy the golden views of the three mountains.
Don’t just sit inside the dining. Explore the surroundings, right beneath the mountains, where cloud inversion adds a magical touch for sure!
Once it’s evening time, stay in the warm dining area, enjoy the firewood warmth, and don’t forget to fill your thermos for the night. Staying hydrated at high altitudes is essential.
You’ll meet both local and international trekkers, so socialise! And if the weather is clear (mostly in late autumn and winter), be sure to get out for stargazing.
Sleep early, as you’ll need to wake up at 3 am for the next hike. So, for your packing list, be sure to carry a headlamp or reliable torch. Or you may drain your phone if you’re using it for light!
Day 4: Viewpoint & Base Camp Exploration, Return to Low Camp
| Hike Distance | 16 km |
| Hike Duration | 7 to 8 hours |
| Elevation Gain | 947 m |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
This day is a little difficult compared to the others as you’ll be reaching 4500 meters!
Waking up at 3 AM is tough for many. Before starting, check signs of AMS. Don’t hike in the chilly morning if you’re showing symptoms. Rather, seek help from your guide or lodge staff.
In winter, water in drums freezes! So, my dear Nepalese and South Asian trekkers, be sure to carry wet tissues or toilet paper!
For the final hike, don’t forget to fill your water bottle full, as there won’t be refill points in between, though a few tea shops at viewpoints sell tea.
The morning hike may feel cold, but as the sun rises, you’d be glad you’ve done the Mardi Himal Trek! Stars, sunrise, and the Milky Way make it a paradise for astrophotography lovers, too.
Passing via Lower Viewpoint (3,981 m), you’ll reach Upper Viewpoint, aka Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m). That’s where you get one of the best sunrise views in Nepal.
Mountains appear even closer, especially Mardi Himal (5,587 m) and Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). You can also see distant peaks like Khangsar Kang, Tarke Kang, Tare Kang, Asapurna, and Gangapurna.
While many make a return, I highly recommend proceed ahead. First to Lower Base Camp (4,218 m) and then to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m), which happens to be the west base camp. It’s just about 1.5 to 2 hours away from the viewpoint, so definitely don’t miss it.
I only recommend spending a little time at the base camp, as you have already gained almost 950 meters by now in a short span of just 4 hours. But there’s no need to hurry if you’re all good.
That’s the advantage of doing the 6-day trek. Even during the return to High Camp, you can walk in a relaxed way, as you don’t have to reach all the way down. You’ll also realize those insane stairs you had climbed in the dawn.
Have your breakfast, pack your things, and start the downhill. Stop for a late lunch at Badal Danda, and if you wish, you can even stay here up to sunset to watch clouds gather below at that time. You’ll be on cloud nine, literally!
Today’s final downhill from Badal Danda to Low Camp takes roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour. The advantage of this 6-day plan is that you don’t have to rush and reach Low Camp at your own pace.
Day 5: Low Camp to Sidhing, Back to Pokhara
| Hike Distance | 5 km |
| Hike Duration | 3 to 4 hours |
| Drive Distance | 31 km |
| Drive Duration | 2 to 2.5 hours |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
It’s the last day of this 6-day Mardi Himal Trek, and it’s going to be completely downhill through the forests of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
On the way, you’ll pass small settlements like Takaichi (2,285 m) and Ratencho (2,092 m) before reaching Sidhing (1,751 m). Since you’ll be descending gradually, your knees feel less stressed compared to the 3-day trek from Pokhara (5-day from Ktm). Still, I suggest wearing knee support if you know you’ll have knee issues.
The place to get a jeep is actually called Bhimjung (1,935 m), where you can share a jeep with other friends that you met on the trail.
Within two to three hours, you’ll reach Pokhara today, and this gives you enough time for sightseeing. If you have energy left, try kayaking, a trending activity in Phewa Lake!
It’s even possible to return to Kathmandu the same day. Head to Prithvi Chowk and you’ll easily find evening microvans or night buses. But let’s be honest, you’d rather want to give yourself a celebration night in Lakeside, don’t you?
Day 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu
| Drive Distance | 200 km |
| Drive Duration | 6 to 7 hours |
| Elevation Gain | 500 m |
Time to return to the capital city. Just like how you arrived, you can choose the same option.
I had personally gotten on an afternoon van after a good night’s sleep until late morning. You’ll reach within 6 to 7 hours if you follow my approach. But if you take the bus, you need to get on an early morning one, and it takes about 8 hours.
You can even go for a final morning stroll if you wake up early. Have breakfast in the Lakeside area itself. Totally up to you.
Alternative 6-Day Mardi Himal Trek Itineraries
Pittam Deurali is the best starting option from my pov, but those wishing to visit Australian Camp can start from Kande for sure. It’s also what many prefer on this 6-day journey.
And if you start from Sidhing or Kalimati, it reduces the total distance from 36 km via Pittam Deurali to 30 km and 32 km, respectively.
Read below for more details.
Start From Kalimati
The Mardi Himal Trek route via Kalimati (1,833 m) is becoming more popular in recent times among local trekkers. Forest Camp is just about 2 to 3 hours from here!
Too much time is saved, especially if you compare it with Kande. Upon connecting to Forest Camp, it’s the same route as above.
And here’s the itinerary:
- DAY 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
- DAY 2: Pokhara to Kalimati Drive, Reach Rest Camp
- DAY 3: Rest Camp to High Camp
- DAY 4: Reach Base Camp, Back to Low Camp
- DAY 5: Low Camp to Kalimati, Back to Pokhara
- DAY 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Note: You can even get a night bus to Kande on Day 1, then directly start your hike from Day 2.
Start From Sidhing
Starting from Sidhing requires a 4 to 5 km steep uphill through the forest. Not recommended, but if you’re willing, it allows you to complete the trek much faster compared to any other itinerary:
- DAY 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
- DAY 2: Pokhara to Sidhing Drive, Reach Low Camp
- DAY 3: Low Camp to High Camp
- DAY 4: Reach Base Camp, Back to Low Camp
- DAY 5: Low Camp to Sidhing, Back to Pokhara
- DAY 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Start From Kande
Kande to Sidhing is approx. 42 km, and is the longest Mardi Himal trek route. However, this part of the trail is culturally richer than any other.
You’ll even get to explore Australian Camp (a popular stop) and pass Pothana (2,060 m) before reaching Pittam Deurali. There are hidden short routes that you can ask locals, or your guide will lead you.
- DAY 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara
- DAY 2: Pokhara to Kande Drive, Reach Forest Camp
- DAY 3: Forest Camp to High Camp
- DAY 4: Reach Base Camp, Return to Low Camp
- DAY 5: Low Camp to Sidhing, Back to Pokhara
- DAY 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Note: You can even start your trek from Dhampus, which is a popular Gurung village to stop by. Many trekkers opt to stay here a day prior and start the trek the next day.
Mardi Himal Trek 6 Days Cost & Packages
The overall Mardi Himal trek cost or budget differs for Nepalese and international tourists. Nepalese can expect to complete this 6-day trek in NPR 14,000 to 15,000 budget, which is quite ideal.
Here’s a general idea on how it should go on a per-person basis (remember this is just an idea, the cost may be lower or higher, that’s why I’m suggesting 10k):
- Vehicle Expenses: NPR 3,000 to 4,500
- Rest Camp Package: NPR 1,500 to 1,700
- High Camp Package: NPR 1,500 to 1,800
- Low Camp Package: NPR 1,500 to 1,800
- Snacks & Extras: NPR 1,200 to 1,800
- Pokhara Stay (2 nights) : Depends on your spending (mine was around NPR 3000 to 3500; you can spend less here to complete the trek in budget)
For foreign trekkers, the prices vary depending on whether you’re trekking independently, with a freelance guide, or with a travel agency.
The best option is definitely choosing a registered trekking agency because you’ll be safer and everything else will be handled for you!
Packages for the Mardi Himal Trek usually cost USD 399 to USD 699, depending on how reliable the agency is and the level of luxury you prefer. Generally, this price covers your vehicle expenses, BLD during the trek, guide fees, porter fees, etc. Overall, it’s a good deal, but I suggest tipping the guides and porters.
But which agency should you choose? Well, our TNT team is working on reviewing travel agencies through various means, and we’ll soon update it here on the site with the best ones.
But for the time being, you can fill up the form below to book your Mardi Trek, and we’ll get back to you with the best possible option:
Remember: Travel Nepal Today is not a trekking or travel agency. Our job on the internet is to provide you with actual and factual information about Nepal and also help you out in every possible way so you get to explore the beauty of this beautiful country.
Bonus: Packing List for 6-Day Mardi Himal Trek
The packing list for any trek depends on multiple factors, such as the number of days, the season, and the teahouse conditions. You should pack things that make you comfortable, because you’ll be carrying that backpack and relying on yourself throughout the trek.
I’m going to share my own packing list and also suggest some recommended products, based on good reviews. These items should be enough for your 6-day Mardi Himal Trek in any season:
Final Words
That was the 6-day ideal itinerary for the Mardi Himal Trek from Kathmandu. If you want an even more relaxed adventure, I’ve covered 7-day and 8-day trips too.
It’s all about taking it slow and enjoying both the cultural and natural aspects of trekking. And if you still have any confusion, don’t hesitate to ask questions in the comments below.
Happy travelling to Kaski!
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