3 Days Short Mardi Himal Trek

The Short Mardi Himal Trek is an alternate option for the 5-day Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek. The short 3-day Mardi trek is for those who do not have enough time but still want to enjoy the beauty of Mardi Himal from the closest view. The Trek starts from Dhampus and leads to the Mardi Himal Base Camp within just 2 days on the trail.

By embarking on a 2-night trek, you will have the opportunity to witness breathtaking mountain views and interact with local villagers from the region. This walk is easy for experienced hikers seeking a shorter version of the Mardi Himal Trek. The trek starts with a short road trip from Pokhara to Dhampus. You will walk in a lush green forest as the first part of the trail. After walking for a few minutes, you will arrive at Pothana, where you will register your trekking permits at the tourist checkpoint.

The trail ascends to Deurali. From this vantage point, you will witness a breathtaking panorama of the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri and Machhapuchhre, also known as Mount Fishtail. You will walk through the forest till reaching Forest Camp. This area is exceptionally tranquil, with the melodic chirping of birds and the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. During the spring months of March and April, you can see the vibrant and colorful rhododendrons throughout the trail.

Mardi Himal Trek provides stunning of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range peaks, as well as the famous and iconic Fishtail Mountain. The breathtaking views from Badal Danda and High Camp are the trek's highlights. Mardi Himal Base Camp is a two-hour hike from the Viewpoint, and the trail is not very steep.

You can witness Annapurna Base Camp and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, which is another highlight of the short Mardi Himal Trek. At Mardi Himal Base Camp, there are a few teahouses at your service where you can relax admiring the stunning views. From here, you hike down to Sidding. Sidding is the end of this beautiful trek to Mardi Himal, from where you travel back to Pokhara.

3 Days Short Mardi Himal Trek Itinerary

Day 01: 1 Hour Drive from Pokhara to Dhampus and Trek to Forest Camp

The trek to Mardi Himal begins with 1 hour-long drive to Dhampus, a picturesque town in the Annapurna region. The trail leads to Pothana via beautiful green forests. After 45 45-minute hikes, you arrive in Pothana, a little settlement where you show your Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. The trail leads up to Deurali, where you can witness stunning mountain views.

The trail then enters the forest. In spring months, you can see rhododendrons blooming throughout the trail. You can enjoy the sound of birds on the trek, and you might encounter wild animals like deer, bears, and leopards.

Finally, after a 6-hour hike from Dhampus, you will arrive at the Forest Camp. There are 7-8 teahouses at Forest Camp where you can enjoy an amazing view. After arriving at the guest house, rest and enjoy dinner in the evening. You will stay overnight at the teahouse and prepare for the next day's hike.

Day 02: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (7 hours)

Wake up with birds chirping outside your window and have breakfast with a stunning Himalayan view. The trek starts with a little uphill. Today, the trail goes through blooming rhododendron forests. Also, we can hear more birds singing their songs throughout the day.

After 3 hours of hiking, you will arrive at Low Camp. This is a newly developed town with a stunning view of Mount Fishtail. Most trekkers rest here. After some relaxation and admiring the scenery, you proceed to the High Camp. The walk continues into a rhododendron forest. After trekking through a rhododendron forest you will soon arrive at Badal Danda. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the Annapurna mountain range and settlements.

After a few hours of hiking, you arrive at the beautiful little settlement of High Camp. You can enjoy the beautiful sunset shining over the peaks. Far off, you can see the Pokhara city in the distance. You stay overnight at High Camp today.

Day 03: Hike to Viewpoint and Mardi Himal Base Camp(4500 m)/ Viewpoint (4200 m), Trek back to Siding and drive to Pokhara.

Today, you begin your trek early morning with a headlamp. The trail to Viewpoint is narrow, so if you're trekking in the winter, bring crampons and a hiking stick. It's thrilling to hike in the dark with only a headlamp to guide you. After roughly 2 hours of walking from High Camp, you arrive at the Viewpoint, which provides a wonderful view of the Annapurna Himalayas and Mt. Fishtail.

The sunrise paints the white Himalayas, and it looks fantastic. This location is generally windy, so bring all of your warm clothes when waiting for the dawn and taking pictures/videos. There is a little tea house where you may enjoy the views while drinking hot tea. After witnessing the breathtaking views, you will trek for another two hours to Mardi Himal Base Camp. The spectacular vista of Annapurna Himal and Annapurna Base Camp below is breathtaking.

After admiring the breathtaking view from the Mardi Himal Base Camp, you return to High Camp by the same trail. After having breakfast, you descend to Sidding by Low Camp. You proceed into the rhododendron forest. Sidding is located on the mountain's lap. It is a little village with a road that leads to Pokhara. After a 2-hour picturesque drive, you arrive at Pokhara and mark the end of your trek to Mardi Himal.

When is the Best Time to Go For a Short Mardi Himal Trek?

The best time for a short Mardi Himal Trek is the Spring Season (March, April, and May) and the Autumn Season (September, October, and November).

Spring season is one of the best times for Mardi Himal Trek. During spring, you can see rhododendrons blooming throughout the trek. It is the time of the year when the surroundings become green and fresh. You can smell the fragrance of various flowers as you trek to the Mardi Himal during this month. The beauty of green natural vegetation reaches its peak during this season. It is the pre-monsoon season, so the sky is usually clear, giving you a better view of the mountains. You can find ideal weather and temperatures for an unforgettable trekking adventure.

Autumn season is another best time for a trek to Mardi Himal. The temperature is moderate during the autumn season, and low precipitation makes trekking more pleasant. Autumn is the post-monsoon period due to which the surrounding Annapurna region becomes clear because of the summer rainfall. The nights are also generally cloud-free, providing you with great views of night skies and snow-capped white mountains.

Each season offers a unique experience on the Mardi Himal Trek. For the Short Mardi Himal Trek, understanding the advantages of different seasons can help you choose the best time to go. Explore the best time for Mardi Himal Trek to find out which season suits your preferences.

How Difficult is the Short Mardi Himal Trek?

The short Mardi Himal Trek is considered a moderately difficult trek in the Annapurna region. However, if you are an experienced trekker you might find this trek route short and easy. The trek to Mardi Himal falls under easily doable trek categories for all kinds of trekkers, mainly due to its short trip period. The trek can be completed in between 3 - 5 days which is shorter compared to other treks in Nepal.

Each day you hike around 6 to 7 hours on the trail. Almost each day you will ascend around 1000 meters in a relatively short time. The ascend can be very steep in some parts of the trek. The Mardi Himal base camp sits at an altitude of 4,500 m / 14,763 ft. The descent from High Camp to Siding is the hardest part, where you descend nearly 1700 m a day.

In short, the Mardi Himal trekking is not a difficult trek but you need to be physically and mentally fit and have the stamina to walk on the trail.

Comprehensive Packing List for Short Mardi Himal Trek

Essential Documents

• Passport
• Permits
• Cash

Preparation Tips for a Short Mardi Himal Trek

Preparing for a short Mardi Himal Trek involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed look at what you need to consider:

Understand the Trek Duration and Route

The Mardi Himal Trek, though short, covers diverse terrain and reaches significant altitudes. Typically lasting between 4 to 5 days, the trek includes steep ascents and varied landscapes. Familiarize yourself with the specific route and daily distances to mentally and physically prepare for the trek. Knowing the itinerary will help you set realistic expectations and plan your pace accordingly.

Check Weather Conditions

The weather in the Himalayas can be highly unpredictable, even on shorter treks. Before your trek, check the weather forecast for the entire duration of your trip. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, such as rain, snow, or cold temperatures. Packing for these conditions is crucial, so ensure you have appropriate gear to handle any weather you might encounter.

Fitness and Health Preparation

Physical preparation is vital, even for a short trek. Incorporate regular cardiovascular exercises, such as running or cycling, into your routine to build endurance. Practice hiking with a weighted backpack to simulate trek conditions. Additionally, ensure you are in good health and consult a healthcare provider if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that might affect your trek.

Gear and Packing

Efficient packing is crucial for a short trek. You’ll need to balance bringing enough gear to be prepared while keeping your pack light. Essentials include proper clothing layers, trekking boots, and a sleeping bag.

Choosing the right gear can make all the difference on your trek. For a complete guide on what to bring, refer to our Packing List for Mardi Himal Trek. It includes recommendations for clothing, equipment, and other important items.

Safety and First Aid

Safety is a top priority on any trek. Carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptics, and medications for common trek-related issues. Educate yourself on how to handle altitude sickness and other potential health concerns. Trekking with a guide or as part of a group can also enhance your safety, as they can provide support and assistance if needed.

Permits and Documentation

Ensure you have all the necessary permits and documentation before starting your trek. The Mardi Himal Trek requires specific permits, which you should obtain in advance. Double-check that you have all the required documents to avoid any issues during your trek. Having your permits sorted out will allow you to focus on enjoying the trek rather than dealing with administrative hurdles.

You’ll be well-prepared for a successful short Mardi Himal Trek by following these preparation tips.

For more detailed information on what to pack and to ensure you're fully equipped, don’t miss out Mardi Himal Trek Packing List. This guide will help you make sure you have all the essentials for your adventure, keeping your trek comfortable and enjoyable.

Essential Information on the Short Mardi Himal Trekking

Accommodations and Foods on the Trek

Accommodation on the 3-day short Mardi Himal Trek is very basic. You don't have options for luxurious rooms and hotels on the trek. But you will get good and basic accommodation enough to keep you comfortable. Rooms are generally small, clean and have a warm blanket enough to keep you warm. Both bedrooms and bathrooms are on a shared basis. In each room, there will be 2 beds, so if you are doing a solo trek in peak seasons you might need to share a room with your friends or with someone of the same gender for the night.

There is a wide variety of food and beverages available on the trek. Most teahouses have a similar menu with options of Continental, Chinese, and Indian cuisines. Tea, coffee, and other beverages are available throughout the trail. Make sure to avoid alcohol and non-veg items on the trek.

Wifi and Communication Service

Mardi Himal Trek is a popular trek in Nepal attracting thousands of trekkers every year. So, the trek is well-managed and comfortable.

You will have a mobile service network available throughout the trek route. Also, there is a Wi-Fi connection available at teahouses along the way. The cost of WiFi is NPR 100 - 200 rupees per night. Overall, it is easy to stay connected and be in touch with friends and family throughout the Mardi Himal Trek.

You can charge your mobile phones and electronic devices in the teahouse. However, you need to pay about NPR 200 - 350 rupees per phone and camera full charge.

Fitness Level Required For the Short 3 Days Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is not an extremely difficult trek to complete. The trek is categorized as an easy and beginner-friendly trek, doable for every age group. But if you are a novice trekker some steep uphill sections might be difficult for you.

It is always better to prepare physically before going on the trek. You can practice by going on a short day hike to know your limitations and where you struggle. You will have less time to complete this short Mardi Himal Trekking so you need to put on more effort to complete this trek within 3 Days.

FAQs on Mardi Himal Trekking