Search for the Mardi Himal Trek and you’ll see itineraries from 3 days to 9 days. It’s one of the most flexible treks in Nepal, which is great, but it also makes picking one confusing.
The good news is that they all follow the same route. The real choice comes down to three versions: 4 days, 5 days, and 6 days. The difference isn’t where you go. It’s how fast you climb, how tired you feel, and how much time you have to enjoy it.
Quick Answer
- Short on time and fit? Pick the 4-day trek. It’s fast, but it leaves little time to adjust to the altitude.
- Want the best balance? Pick the 5-day trek. It’s the most popular for a reason.
- Want a gentler pace? Pick the 6-day trek. The extra night makes the climb easier and safer.
For a look at how Mardi compares with other treks, read our Mardi Himal vs Annapurna Base Camp guide .
The Route in Short
Almost every Mardi Himal itinerary follows the same path from Pokhara:
Forest → Low Camp → High Camp → Viewpoint → Siding → Pokhara
You start in rhododendron forest, climb to Low Camp (about 3,000 m) and High Camp (about 3,580 m), then make an early-morning push to the viewpoint at about 4,200–4,500 m. After that, you descend to Siding village and return to Pokhara.
Heights vary a little between sources, so treat the numbers in this guide as close estimates. The full trek covers about 40–50 km of walking.
Itinerary 1: The 4-Day Trek (Fast and Tough)
This is the shortest common version. It compresses the early days, so each day is longer and steeper.
| Day | Route | Sleep | Walking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pokhara → trailhead → Forest Camp or Low Camp | About 2,600–3,000 m | Long day |
| 2 | Low Camp → High Camp | About 3,580 m | Steady climb |
| 3 | High Camp → Mardi Himal viewpoint → down to Low Camp or Siding | About 3,000 m or lower | About 6–7 hrs |
| 4 | Down to Siding → Pokhara | Back in Pokhara | Short walk and drive |
Route details differ by operator, so check the plan before you book.
What it’s like: You gain height quickly and have little time to adjust. Day 3 is long, often starting before sunrise.
Best for: Very fit trekkers with limited time who have trekked at altitude before.
Skip it if: You’re new to trekking, worry about altitude, or want to enjoy the walk.
Itinerary 2: The 5-Day Trek (The Classic)
This is the most popular version, and a good fit for most people.
| Day | Route | Sleep | Walking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pokhara → trailhead → Deurali | About 2,100 m | 4–5 hrs |
| 2 | Deurali → Low Camp | About 2,990 m | 5–6 hrs |
| 3 | Low Camp → High Camp | About 3,580 m | Steady climb |
| 4 | High Camp → viewpoint (about 4,500 m) → Siding | Siding village | 6–7 hrs |
| 5 | Siding → Pokhara | Back in Pokhara | 3–4 hrs |
What it’s like: Each day has a clear goal. Day 2 climbs through forest, Day 3 reaches the ridge, and Day 4 is the big viewpoint day. The days are long but well paced.
Best for: Most trekkers with moderate fitness who want a full Mardi experience in under a week.
Skip it if: You want an easy, relaxed pace, or you’re very sensitive to altitude.
Itinerary 3: The 6-Day Trek (Slow and Safe)
The 6-day version adds one extra night, so the climb is split into easier steps.
| Day | Route | Sleep | Walking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pokhara → Deurali → Forest Camp | About 2,600 m | Short walk |
| 2 | Forest Camp → Low Camp | About 3,000 m | 4–5 hrs |
| 3 | Low Camp → High Camp | About 3,580 m | Steady climb |
| 4 | High Camp → viewpoint → back to High Camp or Low Camp | About 3,000–3,580 m | 6–7 hrs |
| 5 | Down to Siding | Siding village | Long descent |
| 6 | Siding → Pokhara | Back in Pokhara | 3–4 hrs |
Details differ by operator, so check your plan.
What it’s like: Shorter days, more rest, and a better chance to adjust to the altitude before the viewpoint. Many guides call 6 days ideal for most trekkers.
Best for: First-timers, photographers, and anyone who wants a comfortable pace.
Skip it if: You can’t spare a full 6 days.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| 4 Days | 5 Days | 6 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate to hard | Moderate | Easy to moderate |
| Daily walking | 5–7 hrs | 4–7 hrs | 3–7 hrs |
| Time to adjust | Little | Some | Best |
| Best for | Fit, short on time | Most trekkers | Easy pace, first-timers |
| Typical price | About $260–$450 | About $350–$650 | About $420–$600 |
Prices come from several operators and depend on what’s included, so treat them as close estimates.Other Options
- A 3-day version: Some operators sell this very fast plan, but it’s only for the fittest trekkers and leaves almost no time for the altitude.
- A 7-day version: Often includes the drive from Kathmandu and ends through Jhinu Danda, where you can soak in hot springs. It’s longer, but not harder.
- Combining with other treks: Mardi can be paired with Poon Hill. See our Poon Hill 3, 4, or 5 day itinerary guide if you want to add it.
Tips for Any Itinerary
- Go slowly above High Camp. Mardi gains height fast, so pace yourself.
- Start the viewpoint hike before dawn. Clear mornings give the best views, and clouds build later.
- Drink plenty of water and tell your guide if you feel dizzy or sick.
- Bring trekking poles. They help on steep ridge sections.
- Pack warm layers. High Camp gets very cold at night.
- Check the weather. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) give the clearest views.
Permits You’ll Need
You’ll need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs about NPR 3,000. Some sources also list a TIMS card, so confirm the current rule with your operator. Rules and fees can change. For official information, see the Annapurna Conservation Area Project .
FAQs
How many days do you need for the Mardi Himal trek?
Most trekkers take 5 or 6 days. A 4-day trek is possible for fit trekkers, and 7 days gives an even gentler pace.
Can you do Mardi Himal in 4 days?
Yes, but it’s fast. You gain height quickly and have little time to adjust, so it suits fit trekkers who have trekked at altitude before.
What is the best Mardi Himal itinerary for beginners?
The 6-day trek is usually best for beginners, thanks to its shorter days and extra time to adjust to the altitude. The 5-day trek also works for fit beginners.
How hard is the Mardi Himal trek?
It’s rated moderate. The hardest parts are the steep climbs and the long viewpoint day, not technical skills.
How high is Mardi Himal?
The top viewpoint is about 4,200–4,500 m, depending on where it’s measured. High Camp sits at about 3,580 m.
Is altitude sickness a risk on Mardi Himal?
Yes. The trek reaches about 4,500 m in only a few days. Go slowly, drink water, and tell your guide about any symptoms.
Where does the Mardi Himal trek start and end?
It usually starts near Pokhara, at a trailhead such as Kande or Deurali, and ends at Siding village before returning to Pokhara.
Do I need a guide for the Mardi Himal trek?
Guide and permit rules for trekking have been changing in Nepal. Confirm the current requirement with your operator before you book.
What is the best time to trek Mardi Himal?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are best, with clearer skies and steadier weather.
How much does the Mardi Himal trek cost?
Guided packages usually cost about $350–$650 for 5 days, depending on group size and what’s included.
Is Mardi Himal better than Poon Hill?
Mardi is higher and quieter, but harder. Poon Hill is easier and shorter. It depends on your time and fitness.
Which is better, the 5-day or 6-day Mardi Himal trek?
The 5-day is faster and more popular. The 6-day is easier, with shorter days and more time to adjust.
Ready to pick your dates? View our Mardi Himal Trek for itinerary options and pricing.