Mardi Himal & Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour Highlights: Highlights
- Scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande – gateway to the trek
- Peaceful, less crowded Mardi Himal trail through forests and villages
- Walk through rhododendron forests, farms, and local settlements
- Stunning viewpoints from Australian Camp and Badal Danda
- Close-up Himalayan views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
- Panoramic scenery of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Mardi Himal
- Beautiful ridge walk above the tree line to High Camp
- Sunrise hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint – the trip’s biggest highlight
- Scenic descent to Sidding village and return to Pokhara
- Explore Chitwan National Park – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Exciting jeep safari with chances to see rhinos and wildlife
- Peaceful canoe ride on the Rapti River
- Opportunity to spot rare species like the Bengal tiger (if lucky)
- Enjoy bird watching and natural jungle environment
- Experience Tharu culture and traditional dance
- Relaxing stay in a jungle lodge/resort setting
Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour Overview Overview
The Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour begins from the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From Pokhara, we take a scenic one-hour drive towards the western hills to reach Kande village. This peaceful village, with a few teahouses and local homes, is where the real walking adventure of the Mardi Himal Hiking with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour officially starts.
From Kande, the trail begins with a gentle and easy walk for about 30 minutes. You pass through traditional Nepali houses, small farms, and everyday village life where children play, and locals work in the fields. Soon, the path changes into a stone staircase climb for around 20 minutes, which can feel warm, but it leads you into a refreshing rhododendron and tropical forest.
As you continue walking, the trail takes you to Australian Camp, a popular viewpoint near Pokhara. This place is well known for its close and clear views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and other Himalayan peaks. There are colorful teahouses and small restaurants where trekkers can relax, making it a perfect rest point during the Mardi Himal Hiking with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour.
After a short descent of about 20 minutes from Australian Camp, you reach Pothana village. This cozy settlement offers several lodges and restaurants surrounded by forest. From here, the trail enters the forest more deeply and continues towards Pitam Deurali at 2100 meters, which takes around 1 hour. Along the way, you walk through peaceful woodland with occasional mountain views appearing on your right side.
Pitam Deurali is an important junction in the Annapurna region. From here, routes connect to Ghorepani Poon Hill, Ghandruk village, and Annapurna Base Camp. However, for the Mardi Himal Hiking with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour, the trail turns right and becomes quieter and more peaceful. The path goes through dense forest, and although there are now a few small places to eat, it is still important to carry water and snacks.
The walk from Pitam Deurali to Forest Camp takes around three hours through untouched forest. This section feels remote and calm, with nature all around. Forest Camp has several beautiful teahouses where many trekkers stay overnight. Trails from other villages like Landruk also connect here, adding a sense of hidden adventure to this part of the journey.
From Forest Camp, the trail gradually climbs through the forest to Rest Camp in about 30 minutes. There are a couple of teahouses here for those who prefer a shorter day. After about 1.5 hours, you reach Low Camp, where the forest begins to open, and stunning views of Machhapuchhre appear very close, creating a magical atmosphere.
The journey continues towards Badal Danda, a well-known lunch stop with several teahouses. This area lies near the tree line, offering wide-open views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal. The combination of snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills makes this one of the most scenic parts of the Mardi Himal Hiking with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour.
Beyond Badal Danda, the trail becomes even more beautiful as trees disappear and the landscape turns into open ridges. You can enjoy views on both sides, and sometimes spot yaks or horses grazing. After a 2 to 3 hour walk, you reach High Camp, the last settlement with lodges before the upper viewpoint.
Early in the morning, the highlight of the trek begins. Carrying a small backpack and using a torch, you hike for about two hours uphill to Mardi Himal Viewpoint. From here, you can see incredibly close views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and even the Annapurna Base Camp valley. This is the most rewarding moment of the Mardi Himal Hiking with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour.
After enjoying the sunrise and mountain views, you return to High Camp for breakfast and then descend to Low Camp for the night. The next day, the trail continues down to Sidding village in about three hours. From Sidding, a jeep drive of around 2 to 2.5 hours takes you back to Pokhara, where you can relax after the trekking experience.
The adventure does not end here, as the Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour continues towards Chitwan. From Pokhara, you travel by tourist bus to Sauraha. Upon arrival, a local coordinator welcomes you and transfers you to your hotel, where you begin your jungle experience.
In Chitwan, you spend two nights exploring the rich wildlife and culture. Activities include jeep safari, canoe ride on the Rapti River, bird watching, and observing animals like Rhinoceros and deer. You can also enjoy the traditional Tharu cultural dance program in the evening and relax by the riverside.
After completing your jungle safari, you return by comfortable bus to Kathmandu, where the journey concludes. The Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour is perfect for travelers looking for a short yet diverse holiday that combines mountain trekking with a relaxing wildlife safari.
If you are exploring alternatives, you can also consider the Poon Hill Trek for sunrise views, the Annapurna Base Camp trek for a deeper Himalayan experience, or a cultural visit to Ghandruk village. For traveler reviews and experiences, you can visit TripAdvisor: Click Here
Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Tour Outline:Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande, then trek to Forest Camp (approx. 5–6 hrs trek) and overnight at a teahouse.
Day 2: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp via rhododendron forest with gradual ascent (approx. 5–6 hrs) and overnight at Low Camp.
Day 3: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp with panoramic mountain views and rest/acclimatization (approx. 3–4 hrs) and overnight at High Camp.
Day 4: Early hike to Mardi Himal Viewpoint, then descend to Siding/Lwang and drive back to Pokhara, overnight in Pokhara.
Day 5: Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan and check in at the jungle lodge, evening briefing, and Tharu cultural program.
Day 6: Full-day jungle activities in Chitwan National Park, including jeep safari, canoe ride, bird watching, and jungle walk, overnight at lodge.
Day 7: Morning safari activity (optional birdwatching or short walk) then drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu and trip ends or overnight stay.
Whats Included?
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara and Chitwan (as mentioned in itinerary),
- Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the Mardi Himal trek,
- Meals during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner),
- Professional licensed trekking guide,
- Porter service (to carry luggage, usually on a shared basis),
- Ground transportation (Pokhara → Kande, Sidding → Pokhara, Pokhara → Chitwan, Chitwan → Kathmandu by tourist bus or private vehicle, depending on package),
- Mardi Himal trekking permits (ACAP),
- Chitwan National Park entry fees,
- Jungle activities in Chitwan (jeep safari, canoe ride, bird watching, cultural program),
- Basic first aid support and safety arrangements,
- Guide and staff insurance.
- International airfare to and from Nepal,
- Nepal entry visa fees,
- Travel insurance (highly recommended),
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry, phone/internet charges),
- Hot showers, battery charging, Wi-Fi in trekking lodges (may cost extra),
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks,
- Tips for guide and porter,
- Extra nights’ accommodation due to early arrival, delay, or changes in itinerary,
- Emergency rescue or evacuation costs (if required),
- Meals in cities (Kathmandu/Pokhara unless specified in package),
- Optional activities not mentioned in the package.
Dates and Availability Departures
All our published dates are guaranteed departures. We also provide customized departures tailored to your travel plans.
There are no group joining dates available at the moment. Please contact us for a private trip.
Travellers Reviews
Per Landquist
Sweden | April,2026
Peaceful Trails and Amazing Mountain Views in Mardi Himal Trek
Our Budget Mardi Himal Trek in Nepal was a truly wonderful experience. Our guide, Rupesh, was kind, professional, and very supportive throughout the entire journey. He always ensured that we felt safe, comfortable, and happy during the trek. The stunning mountain scenery, quiet trails, and beautiful local culture made this adventure unforgettable. Everything was well arranged, and we would highly recommend this trek to anyone planning to visit Nepal. Thank you very much, Rupesh, for making our trip so memorable!
Per Landquist
Manoel Gomes & Friends
Canada | oct,2025
Mardi Himal Trek & Chitwan Jungle Safari – 7 Days Adventure from Canada
Incredible Experience – Highly Recommended!
We are Manoel Gomes and two friends from Canada, and we had an amazing time on the 7-Day Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari.
Our guide Rupesh was outstanding—very professional, knowledgeable, and always attentive to our needs. He made the trek enjoyable, safe, and truly memorable with his friendly personality and great guidance.
Our porter, Prem, was fantastic as well—hardworking, reliable, and always smiling. His support made our journey much more comfortable, and we are very grateful for his effort.
The entire trip was perfectly organized, combining breathtaking mountain views with an exciting wildlife safari experience in Chitwan. Everything exceeded our expectations.
We highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Nepal!
— Manoel Gomes & Friends, Canada
Jack
England | 2026-3-9
A Memorable Nepal Journey: Mardi Himal Trek Combined with Chitwan Safari
I am Jack from England, and I recently completed the Mardi Himal Trek combined with the Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour with Safe Holiday Adventure in Nepal from 9th March to 21st March 2026.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the excellent service provided throughout the entire journey. From the very beginning, the team was highly professional, responsive, and well-organized. They ensured that all arrangements were smooth, including permits, accommodations, transportation, and guiding services.
During the Mardi Himal Trek, the guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to our safety and comfort. The trekking experience was truly memorable, with breathtaking views and well-planned pacing. The support from the porter and staff made the journey much easier and more enjoyable.
The Chitwan Jungle Safari portion of the trip was equally well managed. All activities were coordinated efficiently, and the experience of exploring the jungle, wildlife, and cultural aspects was very enriching.
One of the highlights of Safe Holiday Adventure is their reasonable pricing without compromising on quality. The services provided were excellent value for money. The staff were consistently friendly, helpful, and always willing to assist with any needs or questions.
Overall, I had an outstanding experience and would highly recommend Safe Holiday Adventure to anyone planning a trek or tour in Nepal. They truly made my trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
Thank you to the entire team for the wonderful hospitality and support.
— Jack, England
Genaral Trip InfoInfos
Best Time to Do Mardi Himal Trek and Chitwan Safari
The best time to do the Mardi Himal Trek combined with a Chitwan jungle safari in Chitwan National Park depends mainly on weather, visibility, and wildlife activity. Each season offers a slightly different experience, but some periods are clearly more favorable.
Autumn (September to November) – The most recommended season
This is widely considered the ideal time. The skies are generally clear after the monsoon, offering stunning mountain views during the trek. Temperatures are comfortable—not too hot in Chitwan and not too cold in Mardi Himal. Trails are dry, and wildlife spotting in Chitwan is also good due to moderate vegetation.
Spring (March to May) – Another excellent choice
Spring brings warm weather, blooming rhododendrons along the Mardi Himal trails, and vibrant landscapes. Visibility is usually good, though slightly hazier than autumn at times. In Chitwan, animals are active and easier to spot near water sources as temperatures rise.
Winter (December to February) – Quiet but colder
Trekking is still possible with fewer crowds and clear skies, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. Mardi Himal viewpoints may be cold, while Chitwan remains relatively mild and enjoyable for safari activities.
Monsoon (June to August) – Least favorable
Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and can obscure mountain views. Landslides may also affect trekking routes. However, Chitwan becomes lush and green, though wildlife sightings can be more challenging due to dense vegetation and rain.
In summary:
- Best overall: Autumn (Sept–Nov)
- Second best: Spring (Mar–May)
- Possible but challenging: Winter
- Not ideal: Monsoon
Choosing spring or autumn will give you the most balanced experience—clear Himalayan views on Mardi Himal and rewarding jungle encounters in Chitwan.
Difficulty Level and Required Fitness for Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek is generally considered a moderate-level trek, suitable for beginners with reasonable fitness as well as experienced hikers. The trail does not involve technical climbing, but it includes continuous ascents, descents, and high-altitude walking, which can be physically demanding over multiple days.
In terms of fitness, trekkers should be able to walk 5–7 hours daily with a backpack, often on uneven and sometimes steep terrain. Prior experience in hiking is helpful but not mandatory. Good cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and stamina are important to comfortably complete the trek and reduce fatigue.
Basic preparation such as regular walking, jogging, stair climbing, or light cardio training for a few weeks before the trek is recommended. Mental readiness is equally important, as weather changes, altitude, and long walking hours can test endurance. Overall, with moderate fitness and proper pacing, most healthy individuals can successfully complete the Mardi Himal Trek.
Accommodation and Food Options During the Trek
During the trek, travelers can expect simple yet comfortable lodging along the route, typically in locally run teahouses or lodges. These accommodations usually provide basic rooms with twin beds, warm blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. While amenities are modest, they offer a cozy place to rest after a day of walking, along with a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the local culture.
Food options are generally available at the same teahouses, with menus offering a mix of traditional Nepali meals and some familiar international dishes. Common choices include dal bhat (rice with lentil soup), noodles, soups, vegetables, eggs, and light snacks. Meals are freshly prepared, hearty, and designed to provide enough energy for trekking days. As you go higher, the variety may become slightly limited due to transportation constraints, but the quality remains satisfying and nourishing.
packing list for the combined trip to the Mardi Himal Trek and Chitwan National Park:
Clothing
- Quick-dry trekking shirts
- Warm fleece or jacket
- Waterproof jacket or raincoat
- Trekking pants
- Thermal innerwear
- Underwear and regular socks
- Woolen socks
- Sun hat or cap
- Gloves and warm hat (for cold areas)
- Comfortable clothes for jungle safari
Footwear
- Trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Lightweight shoes or sandals
- Extra socks
Personal Essentials
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Towel (quick-dry)
Trekking Gear
- Backpack (30–50L)
- Daypack
- Sleeping bag (if not provided)
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Headlamp or flashlight with batteries
Health and Safety
- Basic first aid kit
- Personal medicines
- Altitude sickness medication (if needed)
- Insect repellent
Documents and Money
- Passport or ID
- Trekking and park permits
- Cash in Nepalese rupees
Optional Items
- Camera or smartphone
- Power bank and charger
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Wildlife and Activities in Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is one of Nepal’s most popular wildlife destinations, known for its rich biodiversity and jungle activities.
Visitors can spot iconic animals such as the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, sloth bear, leopard, and various deer species like spotted deer and sambar. The park is also home to reptiles, including the gharial crocodile and marsh mugger crocodiles, along with numerous bird species.
Popular activities include jungle safari (jeep or elephant safari), canoe rides along the Rapti River, bird watching, guided jungle walks, and cultural visits to nearby Tharu villages. These experiences offer a close look at wildlife while exploring the natural and cultural beauty of the region.
Permits Required for Mardi Himal Trek and Entry to Chitwan
Participating in the Mardi Himal Trek requires adherence to permit regulations set by the Nepalese authorities. Trekkers must obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), as the route falls within a protected conservation zone. This permit is essential for entry and helps support environmental preservation and local community development within the Annapurna region. In addition, a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is commonly required to maintain records of trekkers and enhance safety monitoring throughout the trail.
When combining the trek with a visit to Chitwan National Park, an additional entry permit is mandatory. This permit can be acquired through authorized entry points or arranged via licensed tour operators. The fees typically vary based on nationality and duration of stay, and they contribute directly to wildlife conservation initiatives and park management.
Obtaining all necessary permits in advance ensures compliance with local regulations and allows for a seamless travel experience across both the trekking and jungle safari segments of the journey
Detailed ItineraryItinerary
Drive from Pokhara to Kande and trek to Forest Camp
On the first day, you start with a short drive from Pokhara to Kande, the trek starting point. From Kande, you begin your hike through stone steps and gradual forest trails that pass small settlements and farmland. The trail enters dense rhododendron and oak forests, offering a peaceful and shaded walking environment. As you ascend, you will gradually gain elevation with occasional rest stops along the way. After about 5–6 hours of trekking, you arrive at Forest Camp, a quiet resting point surrounded by nature where you check into a teahouse, have dinner, and spend the night.
Accommodation : Tea Houses Meals : Lunch & Dinner
Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp
After breakfast at Forest Camp, you continue trekking along a ridge trail through thick forests. The path becomes slightly steeper in sections but remains scenic, with occasional clearings that provide early glimpses of the Annapurna range. The environment changes gradually from dense forest to more open terrain as you gain altitude. You walk at a steady pace, taking breaks for water, photos, and rest. After approximately 5–6 hours, you reach Low Camp, where the views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) become more prominent. You stay overnight in a teahouse and acclimatize for higher elevations.
Accommodation : Tea House Meals : Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
High Camp to Mardi View Point (4200m) and Descent to Low Camp
Early in the morning, you begin the ascent toward Mardi View Point, the highlight of the trek. The trail is steep and requires an early start, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas, including close-up sights of the Annapurna range and Mardi Himal.
After spending time at the viewpoint, you descend back to High Camp for a short rest and continue further down to Low Camp. The descent is easier on the body but requires careful footing. The trail retraces through forested paths and ridges, offering a different perspective of the landscapes seen on the way up. Overnight is spent at Low Camp in a teahouse.
Accommodation : Tea Houses Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Low Camp to Sidding and Drive to Pokhara
The final trekking day begins with a descent from Low Camp to Sidding village. This section of the trail takes you through local villages, farmlands, and forest paths, giving insight into rural mountain life. The trek is mostly downhill and less strenuous compared to previous days.
Upon reaching Sidding, a vehicle will be waiting for you. From here, you take a drive back to Pokhara. Once back in the city, you can relax at your hotel, enjoy lakeside views, and recover from the trek.
Accommodation : Hotel in Pokhara Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive from Pokhara to Chitwan and Cultural Experience
After breakfast, you drive from Pokhara to Chitwan, located in the lowland region of Nepal. Upon arrival, you check in at a jungle lodge near Chitwan National Park. The environment here is quite different from the mountains—warmer climate, flat terrain, and lush subtropical forest.
In the evening, you attend a briefing about the upcoming jungle activities, followed by a traditional Tharu cultural program. This program showcases local dance, music, and cultural traditions of the indigenous Tharu community, offering a meaningful cultural introduction to the region.
Accommodation : Hotel in Sauraha Chitwan Meals : Dinner
Full-Day Jungle Activities in Chitwan National Park
This day is dedicated to exploring the wildlife and natural environment of Chitwan National Park. Activities usually include a jeep safari through the jungle, where you may spot animals such as one-horned rhinoceros, deer, wild boar, monkeys, crocodiles, and possibly Bengal tigers if lucky.
A canoe ride along the river provides opportunities to see aquatic life and crocodiles resting along the banks. Bird watching is also a highlight, as the park is home to numerous species of birds. Additionally, a guided jungle walk allows you to explore the forest more closely with an experienced naturalist. You return to the lodge for overnight stay after a full day of exploration.
Accommodation : Hotel in Chitwan Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Morning Activity and Drive to Kathmandu
On the final day, you may participate in an optional early morning activity such as bird watching or a short nature walk to observe wildlife at a quieter time of day. After breakfast, you begin your drive back to Kathmandu.
The journey offers views of rivers, hills, and rural landscapes as you transition from the lowlands back to the capital city. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your trip concludes, or you may choose to stay overnight depending on your travel plan.
Meals : Breakfast
Mardi Himal Trek with Chitwan Jungle Safari Tour FAQs
The trek usually starts from Kande village, reached by a short drive from Pokhara.
It typically takes around 7 to 9 days, depending on the package and pace.
Yes, you need the ACAP permit for the Mardi Himal trek.
While not always mandatory, a licensed guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation.
You can travel by tourist bus, private jeep, or car, usually arranged by the tour operator.
You may see one-horned rhinos, deer, crocodiles, elephants, and various bird species.
No, it is considered a quiet and less crowded trekking route compared to other popular trails.
The combination of close Himalayan views and a wildlife safari experience in one trip.
Yes, beginners with basic fitness can complete the trek with proper preparation and guidance.
The highest accessible point is the Mardi Himal Viewpoint near High Camp.
Network is limited or weak in higher areas, but available in some lower villages.
Activities usually include jeep safari, canoe ride, and walking safari with a guide.
Yes, visitors can enjoy Tharu cultural dance programs in Chitwan.
You can book through a reliable local trekking agency or tour operator in Nepal.
Yes, most packages are flexible and can be customized based on time, budget, and preference.
Refund & Cancellation Policy
- Booking requires 20% non-refundable deposit (Nepal) or 100% upfront (Tibet/Bhutan).
- Remaining payment due before the trip or on arrival (trip-dependent).
Cancellation charges:
- 31+ days: 20%
- 16–30 days: 45%
- 8–15 days: 75%
- 7 days or less: 90%
- Prices may change due to flights, taxes, or exchange rates.
- Trip changes are allowed, but extra costs apply.
- If the company cancels, a full refund, except for unavoidable events (some costs deducted).
- Good health and travel insurance are mandatory.
- No refund if removed for unsafe or illegal behavior.
- Travel involves personal risk, which the client accepts.
