A compact 5-day trek from Pokhara that climbs through rhododendron forests and teahouse villages to dramatic Annapurna views. Ideal for trekkers who want high-mountain panoramas without a long circuit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A misty dawn on Phewa Lake, and your guide is already unpacking the jeep — the road to Dhampus unwinds under a rising sun and a shoulder of Annapurna peers over terraced fields. Within an hour you leave Pokhara’s lakeside bustle and step into a fir-and-rhododendron corridor that pushes the world into sharper focus: rock, ice, and cultivated slope.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—regular walkers who can handle 5–7 hour days with sustained climbs will be comfortable
Wildlife
History
This region lies within traditional Gurung territory and has long been an agricultural landscape; trekking developed here as Pokhara became a gateway to the Annapurna range.
Conservation
The trek runs inside the Annapurna Conservation Area — stick to marked trails, minimize plastic, and use local teahouses to support the community-based conservation economy.
Reserve your spot on the Mardi Himal Trek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize Gradually
Take your time ascending to High Camp (3,200–3,500 m range) and drink often to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Pack Light — Hire a Porter
Porters are commonly available (2 guests = 1 porter on this trip) and make multi-day teahouse trekking far more comfortable.
Footwear and Traction
Wear sturdy, broken-in boots—the route alternates between stone steps, dirt, and loose scree.
Timing for Views
Start early for summit viewpoints; afternoons often bring clouds that obscure the massif.
Sturdy hiking boots
Ankle support and grip are essential on stone steps and scree descents.
Layered clothing (softshell + insulated layer)
Temperatures swing from warm valley days to windy, cold high camps.
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on long descents and improve balance on loose terrain.
Daypack with 2–3L water reservoir
Carry water, sun protection, and extra layers for long daily stretches.