4 Day Mardi Himal Trek with 2 Day Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour

A Perfect Blend of Mountain Majesty and Jungle Adventure
Imagine trekking through lush forests, crossing quaint villages, and reaching breathtaking viewpoints of the Himalayas, all in just four days. Then, switching gears to a two-day safari in Chitwan National Park, where you encounter rhinos, deer, and exotic birds — this is exactly what the 4 Day Mardi Himal Trek with 2 Day Chitwan Jungle Safari offers. For $434 per person, you get a well-rounded taste of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an excellent choice for those who love both mountains and wildlife without spending weeks in remote wilderness.

We particularly like how the trek offers spectacular vistas of Mardi Himal and Machapuchare (Fishtail) from High Camp, giving you some of the best mountain views in the Annapurna region. The chance to explore traditional Gurung villages adds a cultural touch often missing from purely trekking adventures. On the safari side, we appreciate the emphasis on wildlife encounters, especially the chance to see one-horned rhinos in their natural habitat, which is a rare privilege.

A potential consideration? The trek’s moderate altitude and day-to-day walking distances mean it’s best suited for those with some hiking experience. Also, the tour’s timing aligns best with the seasons of March to May and September to December, which is typical for trekking in Nepal but worth noting if your plans are flexible.

This tour suits adventure seekers who want a manageable trekking experience combined with a wildlife safari, especially those eager to combine mountain views with cultural and ecological discovery in a single trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Himalayan Views: Reach panoramic vantage points of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South.
• Cultural Encounters: Stay in rustic villages and learn about Gurung hospitality.
• Wildlife Opportunities: Spot rhinos, deer, and exotic birds during the Chitwan Safari.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Includes permits, transportation, and accommodations, offering peace of mind.
• Moderate Trek: Suitable for travelers with some hiking experience, not overly strenuous.
• Seasonal Timing: Best enjoyed from March to May and September to December for clear skies and favorable weather.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details: The 6-Day Adventure in Depth

Day 1: From Pokhara to Forest Camp (2,550m)

The journey kicks off with a scenic drive from Pokhara at 8 am, with a pickup arranged by the tour guide — a nice touch that helps reduce the stress of local transportation planning. We then transfer to Kande, where the trek begins. The initial climb through vibrant rhododendron forests is gentle but steadily uphill, promising a gradual acclimatization and some of the freshest mountain air you’ll breathe.

Lunchtime at Pothana village (1,890m) offers a chance to taste local fare and soak in the mountain scenery before continuing to Forest Camp. This first night is spent in basic but comfortable guesthouses, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature — truly a peaceful start.

Day 2: Forest Camp to High Camp (3,580m)

This section is where the trek feels more like a proper mountain adventure. Walking through moss-covered woods and open ridgelines, you’ll get glimpses of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The terrain varies from shaded forests to rocky balconies overlooking the Himalayas, keeping the walk engaging.

Reaching High Camp in the late afternoon, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking mountain panoramas. Here, the lodge is cozy, and the atmosphere is relaxed, setting the scene for the highlight of the trek: the views at sunrise.

Day 3: High Camp to Low Camp via Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m)

This day is all about spectacular vistas. An early start to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint rewards you with a sunrise over the Annapurna range, an experience travelers often describe as unforgettable. The viewpoint feels like standing on the edge of the world, with peaks glowing as the sun rises.

Afterward, you descend back to High Camp for breakfast and continue down to Low Camp (1,700m), where you can unwind in the forested surroundings. This descent offers a different perspective, emphasizing the lush greenery contrasted with mountain majesty.

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Day 4: Low Camp to Pokhara

The final downhill stretch takes you from Low Camp to Siding village, a charming Gurung settlement. The walk offers a glimpse into village life and traditional Nepalese culture. The day concludes with a 2-hour drive back to Pokhara, allowing you to relax and reflect on your mountain adventure.

Day 5: From Pokhara to Chitwan National Park

Switching gears, the journey continues with a bus ride to Chitwan, a vibrant jungle reserve. After settling into your hotel with a welcome drink, the afternoon is dedicated to a jeep safari. This activity is a highlight, offering the chance to spot rhinoceroses, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

In the evening, enjoy a Tharu cultural dance, which adds a lively touch to your wildlife experience. This cultural component enriches the trip, providing insight into local traditions.

Day 6: Chitwan to Kathmandu or Pokhara

After breakfast, a tourist bus departs for your next destination, with options to return to Kathmandu or Pokhara. The transfer back is straightforward, completing a full exploration of Nepal’s natural offerings.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The Mountain Views

The Mardi Himal Trek is often praised for its less crowded trails and spectacular mountain scenery. Unlike the heavily trodden Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal offers a quieter, more intimate experience with unobstructed views of Fishtail and Annapurna South. The High Camp viewpoint is frequently highlighted as a must-see, with travelers describing it as “breathtaking” and “worth every step.”

Cultural Encounters and Village Life

Staying in Gurung villages like Pothana and Siding means you get a genuine taste of local hospitality. The chance to observe traditional ways of life, houses, and community structures enriches the trekking experience beyond just walking. The friendly guides and the opportunity to learn about Gurung culture add depth to your journey.

Wildlife & Nature

The Chitwan Safari elevates the trip from mountain scenery to animal encounters. Spotting rhinos in the wild and watching birdlife in their natural habitat** are memorable highlights. The safari is well-organized, with transportation included, making wildlife accessible even for first-timers.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s inclusion of permits, transportation, and accommodations reduces the hassle for travelers, providing good value for the price. Staying in guesthouses during the trek keeps costs reasonable and allows for authentic local experiences.

What Could Be Better?

While the trek isn’t overly demanding, it’s important to note that it involves altitudes up to 4,200 meters. Travelers should be comfortable walking several hours daily and prepared for variable weather conditions. The trek’s seasonal window (March to May, September to December) is ideal, but outside those months, weather could be unpredictable.

Plus, the tour’s group size isn’t specified, but smaller groups tend to enhance the experience by allowing more personalized attention and flexibility. The trek’s lodging is basic, so travelers seeking luxury accommodations may feel underwhelmed, but for most, this authenticity is part of the charm.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day adventure offers a well-balanced combination of mountain trekking and wildlife exploration in Nepal. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a manageable trek with iconic mountain views and are eager to see wildlife in a natural setting. The value for money is solid, given the inclusions of permits, transportation, and guided treks.

We think it’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic cultural interactions, stunning vistas, and animal encounters without dedicating weeks to remote expeditions. The tour’s emphasis on beautiful scenery and genuine local experiences makes it a memorable choice for a first taste of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does the trek last?
The trek is spread over 4 days, with additional days for travel and safari, making the full tour 6 days long.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is moderate and doesn’t involve extreme altitude or technical climbing, it does involve several days of walking and some steep sections. Travelers with some hiking experience will find it more comfortable.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guided trek with English-speaking guides, permits, all official documents, accommodations, some meals, and the safari activities.

Are accommodations comfortable?
During the trek, accommodations are in guesthouses that are basic but comfortable enough for an overnight stay. In Pokhara and Chitwan, hotels are rated 2-star with breakfast included.

What is the best time to go?
The optimal seasons are March to May and September to December when weather conditions are ideal for trekking — clear skies and mild temperatures.

Is transportation arranged?
Yes, transfers between destinations (Pokhara to Kande, Siding to Pokhara, Pokhara to Chitwan) are included, using private vehicles or shared jeeps.

How difficult is the trek at high altitude?
The highest point is around 4,200 meters, which is manageable for most travelers with some hiking experience. Proper acclimatization and pacing are recommended.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
You might see rhinoceroses, deer, and a variety of birds during the safari. The safari aims to maximize wildlife sightings in Chitwan National Park.

Can I customize this trip?
The tour is fixed, but you might find options to extend your stay in Pokhara or Chitwan, or add other activities, depending on your interests and availability.

In essence, this tour offers a captivating mix of Nepal’s towering mountains and lush jungles, suitable for adventure lovers seeking balance, authenticity, and value.

You can check availability for your dates here: