| Duration: 4 day | Max Altitude: 4500 m/14764 ft. | ||
| Group Size: 2-10 | Location: Annapurna | ||
| Difficulty: moderate | Per Day Walk: 06-07 hrs | ||
| Accommodation: Hotel / Teahouse |
Short Mardi Himal Trek: 4 Days, Cost, and Difficulty
Among all the short treks in Nepal, the Mardi Himal Trek stands out as a top choice with a close connection to the Annapurna region, offering stunning Himalayan views and peaceful trails. The trek begins from Kande, just a short drive from Pokhara, making it easily accessible for travellers with limited time.
While there are talks of completing Mardi in 2 or 3 days, our 4-day Mardi itinerary package ensures a balanced pace, proper acclimatization, and comfort throughout the journey. As a leading trekking agency in Nepal, we have designed this route to prioritize safety and experience. The cost is affordable, especially considering the rich scenery, cultural glimpses, and base camp achievement it includes. Moreover, the trek delivers maximum adventure with minimum hassle, making every step worth it.
The Highlights Fast-Tracked Mardi Trek Offers
- Complete the scenic Mardi Himal Trek in just 4 days
- Witness close-up views of Mt. Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli
- Hike along ridgelines with sweeping Himalayan panoramas from sunrise to sunset
- Enjoy uninterrupted mountain views from Low Camp, High Camp, and Base Camp
- Trek through rhododendron forests, open meadows, and peaceful Himalayan foothills
- Get guided by licensed professionals who ensure both safety and insight
- Stay in teahouses with direct views of snow-covered peaks
- A short, rewarding trek designed for travellers chasing big views in a limited time
Trekking Mardi in the Shortest Time: 2 Days, 3 Days, or the Ideal 4-Day Option?
Completing Mardi Himal in just 2 or 3 days is possible but not without consequences. These fast-track versions often require long, exhausting hikes each day with little time to rest or acclimatize. Rushing through the trail increases the chances of missing turns, experiencing altitude stress, and walking in poor visibility or changing weather.
As reported by OnlineKhabar, trekkers have gone missing on the Mardi route due to trying to reach the base camp too quickly without proper planning or guidance. The news highlights how pushing for speed in this relatively short trek can still result in fatal outcomes.
Our 4-day Mardi Himal Trek is carefully designed to ensure safety, enjoyment, and steady elevation gain. For those seeking an even more relaxed and immersive experience, explore the 7-Day Mardi Himal Trek that includes extra time in local villages and viewpoints.
Best Short Itinerary of Mardi Himal Trek: 4 Days
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Day 1:
Drive from Pokhara to Kande and Trek to Forest Camp (2,520m)
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Day 2:
Trek from Forest camp to High Camp (3780m)
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Day 3:
Hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint or Base Camp and Return to Middle Camp (3,200m)
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Day 4:
Trek from Middle Camp to Siding and Drive Back to Pokhara
Day 1 : Drive from Pokhara to Kande and Trek to Forest Camp (2,520m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hrs
The trek starts with breakfast and a drive from Pokhara to Kande, which takes around 90 minutes. From Kande, your Mardi Himal journey officially begins. The trail first leads to the scenic and well-known Australian Camp, followed by a gradual ascent to the popular hilltop of Deurali. After passing through forested trails and peaceful ridgelines, you will reach Forest Camp, the final stop for Day 1, after approximately 6 to 7 hours of trekking.
Along the way, you will enjoy views of terraced farms, distant ridgelines, and occasional clearings that offer the first glimpses of the majestic Machapuchare.
Day 2 : Trek from Forest camp to High Camp (3780m) (6-7 hours walking) Trip Duration: 6-7 hrs
The second day, starting from Forest Camp begins with a proper meal at the accommodation before the commencement of a 6 to 7-hour walk. The trail first leads to Low Camp, and this slightly challenging but manageable ascent offers your first eye-level view of the Annapurna Range. After reaching Low Camp, the short Mardi trek continues along a beautiful ridge known as Badal Danda, where the clouds often roll beneath you, and the views become more expansive with every step.
From Badal Danda, the trail climbs steadily toward High Camp, located at an altitude of 3,780 meters. The final section becomes steeper but more scenic, with fewer trees and more alpine terrain. After walking for about 6 to 7 hours, you will arrive at High Camp, where the mountains feel close and the air is crisp. This is where you’ll rest for the night, preparing for the next morning’s early hike to the viewpoint.
Day 3 : Hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint or Base Camp and Return to Middle Camp (3,200m) Trip Duration: 7-8 hrs
The most awaited and challenging day of the trek is Day 3. Trekkers begin early, usually around 4 AM, with the goal of reaching the Mardi Himal Viewpoint before the clouds roll in. The trail climbs steadily along a narrow ridge, and the effort is rewarded with one of the most surreal mountain experiences of the entire trek. A 360-degree view unfolds at the viewpoint, with towering peaks like Machapuchare, Annapurna I, and Hiunchuli appearing closer and more dramatic than ever.
Depending on your energy and weather, you can either stop at the viewpoint or continue a bit further to Base Camp. After enjoying the views, descend back to High Camp for a short break before continuing down to Middle Camp at 3,200 meters. Surrounded by forested hills, it’s a quiet and comfortable place to end the day.
Day 4 : Trek from Middle Camp to Siding and Drive Back to Pokhara
The final day of the overall 4-day Mardi trek begins with a relaxed morning at Middle Camp. After breakfast, the trail descends gradually through thick forest and scattered local settlements. The atmosphere becomes warmer as you lose elevation, and the trail feels more peaceful with each step.
After around 4 to 5 hours of walking, you’ll reach the village of Siding, a quiet Gurung settlement surrounded by terraced fields and forested hills. From here, a private vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara. The drive takes about 2 to 3 hours, offering one last look at the hills and valleys you’ve just explored. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Pokhara, ending the short but memorable Mardi Himal trek.
4 Days Mardi Himal Trek Price and Group Discount Offers
The cost for the 4-day Mardi Himal Trek depends on the group size. Solo trekkers can expect a slightly higher rate, while groups benefit from significant discounts. On average, the cost is around USD 375 per person, but here’s the detailed breakdown:
- 1 Trekker: USD 425
- 2 to 4 Trekkers: USD 375 per person
- 5 to 10 Trekkers: USD 300 per person
Permit Costs for Mardi Himal Trek
You’ll need two official permits to trek in the Mardi Himal region:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): USD 20
These permits are mandatory and are included in our full-package pricing.
Optional Porter Service
If you prefer to trek light, hiring a porter is recommended:
- Porter Cost (Approximate): USD 20 per day
This includes the porter’s food, accommodation, and insurance. One porter can carry up to 20–25 kg for two trekkers.
Important Trek Info for Fast-Track Mardi Itinerary
Trekking Mardi Himal in just 4 days requires smart planning, steady pacing, and awareness of altitude shifts. With limited time on the trail, every choice from what to pack to when to rest plays a key role in making the journey safe and rewarding.
How Difficult is the Mardi Trek?
The short Mardi trek often raises questions about its difficulty. Overall, it is moderately difficult. Compared to the 7-day itinerary, the shorter version demands longer walking hours each day, especially on Day 3 when you hike to the Viewpoint or Base Camp. That day stands out as the most physically demanding, with early wake-up and steep ascents.
Day 1 and Day 2 come with anticipation, Day 3 pushes your limits, and Day 4 feels like a victory parade. A rewarding descent through forest trails back to comfort. Despite the rapid altitude gain and uphill climbs, the trail is safe, well-marked, and manageable for fit beginners who are mentally prepared for consecutive active days with limited downtime.
Physical Fitness for the Mardi Himal Trek Short Version
You don’t need technical trekking skills, but solid physical preparation makes the experience much more enjoyable. You should be comfortable walking 6 to 8 hours a day with a backpack on varying terrain. Building stamina and endurance is key for this fast-paced adventure.
Fitness Preparation Tips:
- Add brisk walking or light jogging for 30 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week.
- Practice stair climbing or uphill walking to prepare for inclines.
- Include core and leg strength exercises like squats and lunges.
- Carry a light backpack on short hikes to get used to the weight.
- Focus on mental endurance by simulating long activity days without long breaks.
Is The Short Mardi Trek Accessible throughout The Year? Best Time
The Mardi Himal trek is accessible year-round, but the experience varies greatly by season. The best time to do the short treks is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear, the skies are blue, and the mountain views are at their best.
Trekking in winter (December to February) is possible, but temperatures drop significantly, and snow on the trail can make the route slippery and harder to follow. In monsoon season (June to August), the trail becomes muddy and leech-infested, while heavy rainfall often blocks mountain views and increases the risk of landslides in some areas. For a safe and scenic trek, choosing the right season is essential, especially when attempting the fast-tracked itinerary.
Meals and Teahouse Accommodation During the Short Mardi Trek
During the 4-day Mardi Himal trek, you’ll stay in local teahouses that provide basic but comfortable lodging. Most rooms include twin beds with clean blankets, and the dining areas stay warm and welcoming. The kitchen serves freshly cooked meals such as dal bhat, noodles, soups, pancakes, and pasta. As you go higher, food choices become simpler, but you’ll still get enough variety to stay fueled. You can order tea, coffee, and buy boiled or filtered drinking water at each stop.
Packing Essential for the Fast-Tracked Trek
Since the trek is short, packing light is crucial. Bring layers to handle changing weather, and essentials to keep you comfortable during long walking days.
Recommended items include:
- Breathable base layers and a warm insulated jacket
- Waterproof shell or rain jacket
- Trekking boots with a strong grip
- Gloves, hat, and sunglasses
- Small daypack and water bottle
- Personal toiletries and medication
- Headlamp for early morning hikes
- Power bank and camera for sunrise shots at the viewpoint
Get Your Mardi Trek Quote Today with the Reliable Tour Operator
For a safe, well-paced, and affordable 4-day Mardi Himal Trek package, it’s best to book with a trusted local agency that knows the terrain and delivers the experience as promised. Mountain Routes offers expert-guided treks, personalized packages, and full support from permits to logistics.
If you’re looking to explore more than just Mardi, there are other scenic treks in the Annapurna region worth considering. Treks like the Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill, and Khopra Danda Trek offer different lengths, landscapes, and experiences to suit your time and interest. Reach out today and get your custom Mardi trek quote with a team you can rely on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Khopra Danda Trek, Dhampus Sarangkot Trek, and the Royal Trek are popular short options offering mountain views and cultural experiences.
Yes, but it will be rushed and physically demanding. You’ll miss proper rest and risk safety. The 4-day version is better balanced.
Some good 4-day treks include Poon Hill Trek, Ghandruk Loop Trek, and Dhampus to Australian Camp Trek.
The 4-day trek costs around USD 300 to 425, depending on group size. This includes permits, guides, meals, and transport.
Mardi Himal Base Camp sits at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) above sea level. It offers panoramic views of Machapuchare, Annapurna South, and surrounding peaks.
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