Is the 3-Day Trek Suitable for Beginners?

While the trek is shorter than most Himalayan routes , it is not ideal for complete beginners due to its steep and rapid ascent. The trail climbs from 1,770m (5,807ft) to 4,500m (14,764ft) in just three days , which can be strenuous for those without prior trekking experience. Beginners who want a more relaxed pace should consider the 5-day version instead.

When Is the Best Time to Trek?

The optimal trekking seasons are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) . During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and temperatures are pleasant. Spring offers blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn provides crisp mountain views. Avoid June to August (monsoon season) , as trails become slippery and landslides are possible. December to February brings snow, making High Camp extremely cold and potentially risky without proper gear.

What Permits Are Required?

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – Costs NPR 3,000 (~$23) for foreigners.

Can I Trek Without a Guide?

Yes, the trek is possible without a guide , but navigation can be tricky in some sections. The trail is less crowded than popular routes like Annapurna Base Camp, and markers are occasionally unclear. If you choose to go solo: Download offline maps (Maps.me or Himalayan Mapper). Register at checkposts for safety. Consider hiring a porter-guide (~20–25/day) to carry your bag and assist with directions.

What Food Is Available on the Trek?

Teahouses serve simple but hearty meals , including: Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetable curry)—the best energy source. Pasta, noodles, fried rice, and momos (dumplings). Porridge, eggs, and toast for breakfast. At higher altitudes, meat is limited (often frozen or canned), so vegetarian options are safer. Carry energy bars and nuts for extra fuel.

Is There Electricity and Wi-Fi?

Electricity: Available at lower camps (Forest Camp) but limited at High Camp . Solar charging costs NPR 200–300 per device . Wi-Fi: Rare and unreliable. If you need connectivity, buy an NTC SIM card in Pokhara for mobile data.

How Cold Does It Get?

Temperatures vary drastically: Daytime: 10–15°C (50–59°F) – Comfortable while hiking. Nighttime: Drops to -5°C (23°F) at High Camp . Pack thermal layers, a warm sleeping bag, and a down jacket .

What If I Get Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness is a real risk due to the rapid ascent. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue . To prevent it: Drink 3–4 L of water daily. Ascend slowly and take rest days if needed. Consider Diamox (consult a doctor before use). If symptoms worsen, descend immediately .

3 Days Mardi Himal Trek | Itinerary, Map & Cost for 2025/26

The first steps are light, boots crunching on the forest path as the scent of pine fills the air. The 3 Days Mardi Himal Trek is hidden behind mist and towering green hills. You do not see her yet, but you feel her pull, the quiet promise of something magnificent.

The forest wraps around you like an old friend, sunlight flickering through the leaves. By the time you reach camp, your legs hum with fatigue, but your mind buzzes with excitement. The night is cold, the stars sharp and bright. You sleep dreaming of the heights to come.

Morning arrives, and the trees begin to thin. The world opens up, revealing ridges and sweeping views. With every step, the giant Machapuchare’s sharp peak starts to grow and shows its face. The air grows thin, your breath shortens, but you press on, pulled by the horizon itself.

As the days pass, we will reach High Camp. A solitary perch on the edge of the sky. The wind howls, tugging at your clothes as if urging you forward. Sleep comes in restless bursts, anticipation humming in your veins.

The horizon blushes, then erupts in gold as the sun ignites the Himalayas. One by one, the peaks glow, and finally, you will reach Mardi Himal. The world stretches endlessly below, vast and small at once.

Finally, 3 Days Mardi Himal Trek comes to an end, and the descent passes in a daze. You will be back in Pokhara on the third day. Your surroundings will once again be surrounded by warmth and laughter, seeing the distant clouds cling to distant summits.

A Typical Day on the Mardi Trek

The morning begins before sunrise, when the mountains are still shadows against a pale sky. You wake to fellow trekkers' soft murmur and clinking of teacups. The first light creeps over the peaks as you pack your duffel, your breath visible in the crisp air.

Breakfast is hearty, which includes oatmeal, eggs, toast, and other food items that you can choose from the food menu. Then it's time to shoulder your daypack and hit the trail. The path starts gently, winding through mossy forests where sunlight filters through the leaves in golden patches. Rhododendron trees tower overhead, their twisted branches like something from a fairy tale.

By mid-morning, you are above the tree line, where the world opens up in a breathtaking panorama. The trail becomes steeper, your boots crunching on loose scree as you navigate switchbacks. You pause often, not just to catch your breath but because every turn reveals another staggering view.

After some hours of walking, we will rest for lunch. Lunch is eaten mostly in a sun-warmed atmosphere with the mountains as your backdrop. Then it is onward, the afternoon air thinning as you climb higher. The landscape shifts into cutting across alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers in summer or dusted with snow in colder months.

You reach the teahouse by mid-afternoon, greeted by the smell of woodsmoke and the promise of a hot drink. There is time to rest, maybe play cards, or take notes in a journal as the light fades. Our dinner will be ready by 6:30 to 7:00 PM, and you will go to bed early to relax, as you will be waking up early in the morning.

Outline Itinerary for 3 Days Mardi Himal Trek

Day	Route	Altitude (m/ft)	Walking Duration	Key Highlights
1	Pokhara → Forest Camp	2,550m / 8,366ft	5–6 hours	Lush rhododendron forests, first mountain views, cozy teahouse stay
2	Forest Camp → High Camp	3,580m / 11,745ft	6–7 hours	Above the tree line, panoramic Himalayan vistas, alpine meadows
3	High Camp → Mardi Viewpoint → Pokhara	4,500m / 14,764ft (viewpoint)	8–9 hours (total)	Sunrise over the Annapurna range, close-up Machapuchare views, descent through scenic trails

Permits for Mardi Himal Trek

You need the following permit to trek Mardi Himal, as it falls within the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP).

Permit Name	Cost (Foreigners)	Cost (SAARC Nationals)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)	NPR 3,000 (~USD 23)	NPR 1,000 (~USD 8)

Key Notes:

Both permits are mandatory—checkpoints may verify them along the trail.
Best obtained in Pokhara (fewer queues than Kathmandu).
No need for a guide/porter—independent trekkers can get permits.
Carry physical copies—digital permits are not accepted.

Where to Get Permits?

Pokhara:
- ACAP Office (Tourist Service Center, Lakeside)
Kathmandu:
- Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office (Bhrikuti Mandap)

Is the 3 Days Mardi Himal Trek suitable for you?

The 3-Day Mardi Himal Trek is a short but rewarding adventure, offering stunning Himalayan views without requiring weeks of hiking. However, it’s not for everyone—its fast-paced nature and high-altitude climb demand good fitness and preparation. Before committing, consider your endurance, acclimatization needs, and trekking experience.

Who Is This Trek Best Suited For?

If you are an experienced hiker looking for a quick Himalayan escape, this trek is ideal. The rapid ascent to 4,500m (14,764ft) requires prior knowledge of altitude effects and a strong fitness level.
Unlike the busy Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal remains relatively off the beaten path. If you enjoy solitude and raw mountain beauty, this trek delivers.
While challenging, determined beginners can complete this trek with a guide’s support. Proper pacing, hydration, and rest breaks are key.

This trek is a paradise for nature lovers, as you will see the close-up views of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and sunrise over the Annapurna range.

Packing list for the Mardi Himal Trek