A Complete Look at the 6-Day Tour from Pokhara: Mardi Himal Trek & Chitwan Safari

If you’re dreaming of Nepal’s towering mountains and diverse wildlife, this 6-day package from Pokhara offers a balanced mix of trekking and jungle adventure. For around $476 per person, you’ll trek through lush forests with panoramic Himalayan views, then switch gears to explore the wildlife-rich Chitwan National Park. The tour is operated by Couch Adventure Nepal and includes accommodations, permits, and guided excursions, making it a practical way to enjoy Nepal without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines stunning mountain vistas with the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The early-morning hikes to Mardi Himal Viewpoint promise some of the best sunrise views in the Himalayas—something you’ll remember long after you leave Nepal. Plus, the chance to enjoy a cultural dance in Chitwan adds a wonderful local flavor to the wildlife safari.

A possible consideration is the trek’s physical demand—while it’s manageable for most active travelers, those with mobility issues might find the ascent to High Camp challenging. Also, the itinerary’s timing means you’ll be on the move quite a bit, so flexibility and good footwear are key.

This tour best suits travelers who love nature, adventure, and authentic cultural encounters. If you’re eager to see Nepal’s iconic mountains and experience its wildlife firsthand, this well-rounded trip offers genuine value and memorable moments.

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Key Points

Balanced itinerary: Combines trekking with wildlife safari, ideal for those wanting variety.
Stunning Himalayan views: Early-morning sunrise from Mardi Himal Viewpoint is a highlight.
Wildlife encounters: In Chitwan, expect jeep safaris and cultural performances.
Accommodation and permits included: Simplifies planning and ensures authentic stays.
Moderate physical challenge: Suitable for active travelers comfortable with uphill treks.
Cultural immersion: Enjoy local dances and Gurung villages along the trek.

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Exploring the 6-Day Tour in Detail

Starting in Pokhara: Gateway to Himalayan Adventures

We begin with a pickup from your hotel in Pokhara, a city renowned for its lakeside charm and mountain views. After a scenic drive to Kande, the real adventure starts with a trek into the rhododendron forests and tranquil woodlands of Mardi Himal. This initial stage is perfect for acclimatization and soaking in nature’s serenity. The walk is steady, but you should be prepared for some uphill stretches.

The First Day: Forest Camp (2,550m)

As you arrive at Forest Camp, you’ll feel the quiet beauty of the forested landscape. Spending the night here gives you a taste of Nepal’s mountain hospitality and a chance to rest before the more strenuous days ahead. The trek route from Pokhara to Forest Camp is enjoyable and manageable, making it accessible for most travelers with a decent fitness level.

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Day Two: High Camp (3,580m)

The climb from Forest Camp to High Camp is where the views really start to open up. Traversing moss-covered forests and open ridgelines, you’ll catch glimpses of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The elevation gain is significant but rewarding, leading to panoramic views that justify the effort. From High Camp, the vistas of the Himalayas are truly breathtaking—something you’ll savor during your stay.

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Day Three: Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200m)

Early risers can wake early to hike to the Mardi Himal Viewpoint for a sunrise over the Mardi, Fishtail, and Annapurna ranges. This is often cited as a highlight—”spectacular” and “worth the effort” are typical comments. After soaking in the sights, you descend back to High Camp for breakfast, then continue to the Low Camp, where you can relax among peaceful forest surroundings.

Day Four: Return to Pokhara

The trek downhill from Low Camp takes you through Siding village, a traditional Gurung settlement that offers insight into local mountain life. The journey ends with a drive back to Pokhara, giving you some downtime to reflect on your Himalayan adventure.

Transition to the Jungle: Chitwan National Park

The next morning, you travel by tourist bus to Chitwan. Once there, you’re welcomed with a refreshing drink and cultural greetings. The highlight here is the jeep safari—expect to see rhinoceroses, deer, and a variety of birds. A cultural dance performance in the evening adds an extra layer of local flavor, enriching your understanding of Chitwan’s indigenous communities.

The Second Day in Chitwan

Your wildlife adventure continues with a full day of safari activities. The park’s diverse ecosystem offers excellent opportunities for spotting exotic animals and photographing scenes of jungle life. The accommodations in Chitwan are simple but comfortable, and the included meals ensure you’re well-fed after busy days exploring.

Final Day: Back to Kathmandu or Pokhara

After breakfast, you’ll head back via tourist bus, completing your Nepalese adventure. The journey provides a scenic farewell to the mountains and jungle, offering a chance to reflect on what you’ve experienced.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of trekking and wildlife safaris is rare and compelling. You get the thrill of climbing among some of the Himalayas’ most iconic peaks, then switch gears to observe Nepal’s wildlife in its natural environment. The views from Mardi Himal Viewpoint are often described as spectacular, with many travelers citing them as the trip’s highlight.

The local cultural experiences, including traditional dance performances and visits to Gurung villages, add a meaningful layer to your adventure. The accommodations—ranging from guesthouses during the trek to a comfortable hotel in Chitwan—strike a balance between authenticity and comfort.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

Timing matters: The best seasons are March to May and September to December, when the weather is clear and stable.
Pack appropriately: Bring warm clothing for the higher elevations, sturdy hiking shoes, and sun protection.
Prepare for physical activity: The trek involves uphill walking, so a reasonable level of fitness will enhance your experience.
Stay flexible: The group size can be small, and weather conditions sometimes influence schedules, so patience and adaptability are helpful.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a well-rounded Nepal experience that combines breathtaking mountain vistas with the chance to see wildlife up close, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for adventurers who enjoy hiking but want a manageable schedule, along with those curious about local culture. It’s ideal for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness, eager to explore both the natural and cultural sides of Nepal, without the stress of planning every detail.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day adventure from Pokhara offers an excellent snapshot of Nepal’s natural splendor and cultural richness. The stunning Himalayan views, especially during the sunrise from Mardi Himal, are enough to make it memorable. Coupled with the thrill of a jungle safari in Chitwan, it provides a broad, authentic taste of Nepal’s diverse landscapes and traditions.

Most travelers will find that the tour delivers good value, especially considering included accommodations, permits, and guided excursions. It’s a smart choice for those who want a complete experience—whether they’re on their first trip to Nepal or seeking a rewarding add-on to a longer stay.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most active travelers with a reasonable fitness level will manage the trek comfortably. The route involves uphill walking but is designed to be manageable.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, permits, accommodations during the trek, a guide, jeep safari, cultural dance, and meals in Chitwan. Food and drinks are available for purchase.

Are there any physical requirements?
While the trek is manageable for many, it involves some uphill sections and higher altitudes. You should be comfortable walking and have good footwear.

What’s the best time of year to go?
March to May and September to December are preferred, offering clear weather and spectacular mountain views.

How long is the drive from Pokhara to Kande?
The transfer is by private vehicle, and while the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s typically a scenic drive that gets you quickly into the mountain environment.

What type of accommodations are provided?
During the trek, you stay in guesthouses; in Chitwan, you’ll be in a 2-star hotel with breakfast included.

Can I customize this tour?
Since the itinerary is fixed, customization options aren’t specified, but you can ask your guide about additional activities or adjustments.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join the group, and the tour operator give you a friendly, guided experience.

This tour offers a well-rounded Nepal experience—combining the awe of Himalayan peaks with the thrill of jungle wildlife. It’s a solid choice for those eager to see the country’s natural diversity without overcomplicating logistics. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning traveler, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding and genuinely memorable.