Close-Up View of Machapuchare (Fishtail)
Witness breathtaking panoramic views of Machapuchare (6,993 m), one of Nepal’s most sacred and photogenic peaks.
Spectacular Sunrise from Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m)
Experience golden Himalayan dawn light over Annapurna South and Hiunchuli from a dramatic ridge-top setting.
Short Yet Rewarding Himalayan Adventure
Perfect 4-day itinerary for trekkers with limited time who still want high-altitude mountain scenery.
Panoramic Annapurna Range Views
Enjoy stunning vistas of Annapurna South and surrounding snow-covered peaks throughout the trek.
Scenic Forest Trails
Walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests between Forest Camp and Low Camp, especially beautiful in spring bloom.
Peaceful and Less Crowded Route
Compared to Annapurna Base Camp, the Mardi Himal trail offers a quieter and more intimate trekking experience.
High Camp Ridge Experience (3,580 m)
Stay overnight at High Camp with dramatic alpine landscapes and wide-open Himalayan views.
Authentic Gurung Village Culture
Pass traditional mountain villages and experience warm local hospitality along the route.
Accessible from Pokhara
Quick access from Pokhara makes this trek convenient and easy to organize.
Best Trekking Seasons in 2026–2027
Ideal in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) with clear skies, stable weather, and excellent mountain visibility.
The 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek is a short yet spectacular Himalayan journey in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Starting from the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara (822 m), this trek offers an unforgettable adventure through lush forests, peaceful ridgelines, and dramatic alpine landscapes. Though compact in duration, the route delivers stunning close-up views of sacred peaks, making it ideal for trekkers with limited time who still wish to experience the magic of the Himalayas.
The journey typically begins with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande or Phedi, followed by an uphill walk toward Forest Camp (around 2,520 m). The trail winds through dense rhododendron and oak forests alive with birdsong and fresh mountain air. On the second day, trekkers continue climbing to Low Camp and then High Camp (3,580 m), where the landscape opens dramatically. Snow-capped giants begin to dominate the skyline, including the iconic Machapuchare (6,993 m), whose fishtail-shaped summit rises sharply into the sky.
The highlight of the trek comes early on the third morning with a hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (around 4,200 m). From this spectacular vantage point, trekkers witness a breathtaking sunrise over peaks such as Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The golden light illuminating the Himalayan amphitheater creates a moment of pure awe and accomplishment. After soaking in the views, the trail descends toward Sidhing village, passing through alpine meadows and tranquil forest paths.
The final day concludes with a scenic drive back to Pokhara, where warm lakeside cafés and comfortable hotels welcome weary but fulfilled travelers. The 4 Days Mardi Himal Trek is moderately challenging, with daily walks of 5–7 hours and steady elevation gains. Best enjoyed in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), this short trek combines natural beauty, cultural encounters, and panoramic mountain scenery into a rewarding and accessible Himalayan adventure.
The hike from Pokhara to Pittam Deurali is a popular short trekking route near the Annapurna region, especially for those heading toward Dhampus or Australian Camp.
Approximately 16–18 kilometers (depending on the exact starting point in Pokhara and the trail taken).
Around 6 to 8 hours of walking.
If you start from Lakeside Pokhara (822 m), it may take closer to 7–8 hours.
From the Hemja/Milanchok area (by road transfer first), it reduces to about 4–5 hours of hiking.
Pokhara: 822 meters
Pittam Deurali: approximately 2,100 meters
The trail gradually ascends through terraced farmland, small Brahmin and Gurung villages, and forested paths. The final section becomes steeper as you approach Pittam Deurali, but the panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli make the effort worthwhile.
The trek from Pittam Deurali to Forest Camp (also known as Kokar) is part of the beautiful Mardi Himal route.
Approximately 10–12 kilometers
Around 5 to 7 hours of hiking
Depends on pace, weather, and rest stops
Pittam Deurali: ~2,100 meters
Forest Camp: ~2,520 meters
The trail ascends gradually at first through mixed forests of oak and rhododendron. After Deurali, the path becomes more secluded and peaceful, entering dense woodland with fewer settlements. The climb is steady but not extremely steep, making it a moderate trekking day.
Forest Camp sits quietly among tall trees, offering a calm overnight stop surrounded by nature. On clear days, you may catch glimpses of Machapuchare (Fishtail) through the forest openings.
The trek from Forest Camp to High Camp is one of the most scenic sections of the Mardi Himal route.
Approximately 9–11 kilometers
Around 6 to 8 hours
Depends on pace and acclimatization stops
Forest Camp: ~2,520 meters
High Camp: ~3,580 meters
Elevation gain: about 1,000 meters
The trail climbs steadily from Forest Camp to Low Camp (about 3–4 hours), passing through dense rhododendron and oak forest. From Low Camp onward, the landscape begins to open up, and the path follows a narrow ridge with spectacular Himalayan views.
As you approach High Camp, the vegetation becomes sparse and alpine. The final ascent is steeper and more exposed, but the panoramic views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli are breathtaking.
High Camp sits on an open ridge with dramatic mountain scenery, making it one of the most rewarding overnight stops on the Mardi Himal Trek.
The descent from High Camp to Sidhing is a long but beautiful downhill journey, often the final walking day of the Mardi Himal Trek before returning to Pokhara.
Approximately 14–16 kilometers
Around 6 to 8 hours
Mostly downhill, but long and steady
High Camp: ~3,580 meters
Sidhing: ~1,750 meters
Total descent: about 1,800 meters
The day usually begins early, especially if you first hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m) for sunrise (adds 2–3 hours round trip). After returning to High Camp, the trail descends through Low Camp and then branches toward Sidhing.
The path passes through alpine meadows, dense rhododendron forests, and traditional Gurung villages. The descent is continuous and can be demanding on the knees, so trekking poles are helpful.
From Sidhing, it takes about 2–3 hours by jeep (approx. 35–40 km by road) to reach Pokhara.
This trek is considered moderate. Daily walking hours range from 5–7, with some steep ascents, but it is manageable for beginners with average fitness.
The trek reaches the Mardi Himal Viewpoint at 4,200m, offering stunning views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli.
Yes, Autumn offers clear skies, mild weather, and sharp mountain views—ideal for photography and comfortable trekking.
Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, and orchids, creating colorful trails with pleasant temperatures.
The trek usually starts with a drive from Pokhara to Kande or Dhampus, and ends by returning to Pokhara on the third day.
Trekkers stay in teahouses and lodges along the trail, offering basic rooms, warm meals, and cozy atmospheres.
No prior experience is required. With average fitness and preparation, even beginners can enjoy this short adventure.
In Autumn, daytime temperatures are 10–20°C with cooler nights, while in Spring it is slightly warmer. At higher camps, nights can drop close to 0°C.
Yes, you need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and a TIMS card, both easily arranged in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
It is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want Himalayan views, cultural experiences, and a rewarding adventure without committing to a long trek.
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
Nepal , Annapurna Region Trekking
.jpeg)
