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Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Route Vehicle
Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Route Vehicle 2026: Complete Jeep, Car & Transfer Guide
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and most rapidly growing trekking routes — a spectacular journey through rhododendron and oak forests, sub-alpine meadows, and high-altitude ridgelines to the Mardi Himal Base Camp at 4,200 metres, with close-range views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, and the full Annapurna range that rival anything the more famous ABC and Poon Hill routes can offer, at a fraction of the crowd.
First opened to trekkers in 2012, the Mardi Himal Trek follows a ridge route entirely separate from the classic ABC or Poon Hill trails, ascending through a sequence of dramatically named and beautifully positioned camps — Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and finally the open viewpoint at 4,200 meters — before descending to the quiet village of Siding or Siwai in the Modi Khola valley below.
Because the Mardi Himal Trek begins and ends at different points — with the most popular starting trailheads at Kande or Dhampus and the most popular finishing points at Siding or Siwai — arranging the right vehicle transfers for both the beginning AND the end of the trek is an essential part of Mardi Himal trek planning. At Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd, we provide professional vehicle transfers for all Mardi Himal trek starting and ending points. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers every trailhead, all vehicle options and costs, the route, and the expert tips that make your Mardi Himal trek transport seamless.
About the Mardi Himal Trek
The Mardi Himal Trek takes its name from Mardi Himal (5,587 m) — a dramatic ice peak in the Annapurna massif positioned between Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Annapurna Base Camp. The trekking route does not summit Mardi Himal itself but reaches the viewpoint and base camp area at 4,200 meters, from where the mountain appears at close and overwhelming range.
The trek is notable for its distinct character — quieter, less commercial, and with a more wilderness feel than the ABC or Poon Hill circuits, despite being close to Pokhara and accessible to moderately fit trekkers. The ridge trail gives constant panoramic views throughout rather than the valley-floor approach of the ABC route.
| Mardi Himal Trek Key Facts | Details |
| Trek Duration | 4 to 7 days from Pokhara |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,200 meters (Mardi Himal Viewpoint / Base Camp approach) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trek Style | Ridge route – panoramic views throughout |
| Main Starting Trailheads | Kande (most common), Dhampus, Pothana, Hemja/Astam |
| Main Finishing Points | Siding, Siwai (Kalimati), Lumre, Ghandruk (via descent) |
| Permit Required | ACAP (NPR 3,000 foreigners) + TIMS Card (NPR 2,000) |
| Guide Required | Mandatory from April 2023 (ACAP regulation) |
| Best Season | Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) |
| Key Views | Machhapuchhre/Fishtail, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal |
All Mardi Himal Trek Trailheads and Finish Points from Pokhara
The Mardi Himal Trek can be started and finished at several different points. Understanding the complete picture of all trailhead options is essential for planning your vehicle transfer correctly:
| Point | Type | Distance from Pokhara | Drive Time | Altitude | Notes |
| Kande | Start (most common) | 22 km via Baglung Hwy | 45–60 min | 1,770 m | Most popular trailhead – short drive from Pokhara |
| Dhampus | Start / End | 25–35 km | 1–1.5 hrs | 1,650 m | Via Hemja/Dhikur Pokhari – rough jeep track |
| Pothana | Start (near Dhampus) | 30–38 km | 1–2 hrs | 1,890 m | Slightly higher start – shorter to Forest Camp |
| Hemja / Astam | Start (longer) | 15–20 km | 30–45 min | 920 m | Road start, walk to Astam, then Dhampus |
| Siding | Finish (most common) | 42–50 km from Pokhara | 2.5–3.5 hrs | 1,700 m | Most common trek end – 4WD jeep required |
| Siwai (Kalimati) | Finish (alternate) | 45–55 km from Pokhara | 2.5–4 hrs | 1,100 m | Modi Khola valley – same road as ABC return |
| Lumre | Finish (rare) | 55–65 km | 3–4 hrs | 900 m | Lower valley – less common return point |
| Ghandruk | Finish (circuit) | 55 km | 2.5–3 hrs | 1,940 m | For the Mardi–Ghandruk circuit option |
Why Book a Private Vehicle for the Mardi Himal Trek Transfer?
Outbound Transfer to Kande or Dhampus
The most popular Mardi Himal Trek starting point — Kande — is approximately 22 km from Pokhara on the Baglung Highway and takes about 45 to 60 minutes by vehicle. Dhampus is slightly further and requires a rough jeep track beyond the main highway. A private vehicle from Nepal Vehicle Hiring picks you up from your hotel in Pokhara Lakeside. It drops you at the exact trailhead entrance, with all your trekking gear loaded and your guide and porter already aboard.
Return Transfer from Siding — 4WD Essential
The return jeep transfer from Siding (the most common Mardi Himal finish point) to Pokhara is the most important vehicle arrangement for the entire trek. The road from Siding back to the main Baglung Highway involves a rough, steep, unpaved jeep track that descends through the Modi Khola valley. A 4WD jeep is absolutely required for this section. Trekkers who do not arrange their return jeep in advance often wait at Siding for 1 to 2 hours trying to find available transport.
Book Both Transfers Before Starting the Trek
Nepal Vehicle Hiring strongly recommends booking both the outbound transfer (Pokhara to Kande/Dhampus) AND the return transfer (Siding/Siwai to Pokhara) before departing Pokhara. This eliminates any uncertainty at the end of the trek when you arrive at Siding tired and wanting immediate transport back to your Pokhara hotel. Our driver can be pre-arranged to wait at the Siding at your estimated arrival time.
Complete Luggage Management
Many Mardi Himal trekkers carry a full trekking bag on the trail, but also have additional items (extra luggage, valuables, a laptop) that they want to leave safely in Pokhara during the trek. A private vehicle from Nepal Vehicle Hiring can be arranged to transport your leftover luggage to a secure Pokhara hotel storage facility and collect it on return, completely solving the luggage management challenge.
Vehicle Options: Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trailheads 2026
| Vehicle Type | Capacity | To Kande (NPR) | To Dhampus (NPR) | Return Siding (NPR) | Best For |
| Taxi (local) | 1–3 pax | NPR 1,000–2,000 | Not recommended | Not available | Quick solo transfer to Kande |
| Private Car (to Kande only) | 2–4 pax | NPR 2,000–3,500 | Not recommended | Not suitable | Small group to Kande only |
| Private Jeep – Standard | 4–5 pax | NPR 3,000–5,500 | NPR 4,500–7,000 | NPR 6,000–9,000 | All trailheads, including Dhampus |
| Private Jeep – Hilux/Fortuner | 5–6 pax | NPR 4,000–7,000 | NPR 5,500–9,000 | NPR 8,000–12,000 | Best for Dhampus + Siding return |
| Sharing Jeep (per seat) | 7–8 total | NPR 400–700/pax | NPR 600–1,000/pax | NPR 1,000–1,500/pax | Budget solo trekkers |
Note: All private vehicle prices include driver and fuel. Prices may vary by season and availability. Return from Siding requires a 4WD jeep — standard cars and taxis cannot navigate the Siding to Baglung Highway jeep track. Contact Nepal Vehicle Hiring for confirmed quotes.
Complete Vehicle Cost Guide: All Mardi Himal Transfer Points 2026
| Transfer Route | Private Jeep (NPR) | Private Jeep (USD) | Sharing Jeep/pax | Notes |
| Pokhara to Kande (one way) | NPR 3,000–5,500 | USD 22–41 | NPR 400–700 | Smooth Baglung Highway – 45–60 min |
| Pokhara to Dhampus (one way) | NPR 4,500–7,000 | USD 34–52 | NPR 600–1,000 | Via Hemja jeep track – 1–1.5 hrs, 4WD |
| Pokhara to Pothana (one way) | NPR 5,000–8,000 | USD 37–60 | NPR 700–1,100 | Beyond Dhampus – rough track, 4WD essential |
| Siding to Pokhara (return) | NPR 6,000–9,000 | USD 45–67 | NPR 1,000–1,500 | 4WD mandatory – rough Modi valley track |
| Siwai to Pokhara (return) | NPR 6,000–9,000 | USD 45–67 | NPR 900–1,400 | Similar to Siding – rough jeep track |
| Lumre to Pokhara (return) | NPR 8,000–12,000 | USD 60–90 | NPR 1,200–1,800 | Longer – deep valley access |
| Ghandruk to Pokhara (return) | NPR 8,000–12,000 | USD 60–90 | NPR 1,200–1,800 | 4WD mandatory – Ghandruk jeep track |
| Round Trip: Kande start + Siding return | NPR 9,000–14,500 | USD 67–108 | N/A | Book both transfers together – best value |
Trailhead-by-Trailhead Vehicle Guide
Pokhara to Kande – Most Popular Starting Point
Kande (also spelled Khande), at 1,770 meters, is the most popular and most convenient trailhead for the Mardi Himal Trek. Located approximately 22 kilometers from Pokhara Lakeside on the Pokhara-Baglung Highway, Kande is accessible by any vehicle — the road is smooth and paved, and the drive takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes from Pokhara.
From Kande, the trail climbs through dense oak and rhododendron forest to AusCampian Camp (2,060 m) and then continues northeast along the Mardi Himal ridge to Forest Camp, Low Camp, High Camp, and the viewpoint. Trekkers starting at Kande typically reach Mardi Himal Base Camp on Day 3 of a 5-day itinerary.
| Pokhara to Kande Details | Information |
| Distance | 22 km |
| Drive Time | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Road Type | Baglung Highway – paved, smooth |
| Vehicle Required | Any vehicle suitable |
| Private Jeep Cost | NPR 3,000–5,500 one way |
| Sharing Jeep Cost | NPR 400–700 per person |
| Trek From Kande to Forest Camp | ~4 to 5 hours walk |
| Trek From Kande to Mardi Base Camp | 3 to 4 days |
| Notes | Most convenient trailhead – earliest on the trail |
Pokhara to Dhampus – Cultural Village Start
Dhampus (1,650 m) is both a magnificent Gurung cultural village in its own right and an excellent alternative starting point for the Mardi Himal Trek. Driving to Dhampus rather than Kande immediately puts you in a high Gurung-ridge village with stunning Annapurna panoramas before the trek even begins.
The road to Dhampus from Hemja (15 km from Pokhara) turns off the Baglung Highway and climbs steeply on a rough jeep track through Dhikur Pokhari. A 4WD jeep is required for this final section. From Dhampus, the trail continues to Pothana and then joins the Mardi Himal ridge route.
| Pokhara to Dhampus Details | Information |
| Distance | ~25–35 km |
| Drive Time | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Road Type | Paved to Hemja; rough 4WD jeep track to Dhampus |
| Vehicle Required | 4WD Jeep mandatory from Hemja onward |
| Private Jeep Cost | NPR 4,500–7,000 one way |
| Sharing Jeep Cost | NPR 600–1,000 per person |
| Cultural Bonus | Dhampus is one of Nepal’s finest Gurung villages with panoramic Annapurna views |
| Trek From Dhampus to Forest Camp | 3 to 4 hours via Pothana |
Return Transfer: Siding to Pokhara – The Critical Jeep Arrangement
Siding (also called Sidhing or Siddha Village) at approximately 1,700 meters is the most common trek endpoint for the Mardi Himal Trek. After descending from the high ridge through Low Camp and Forest Camp, the trail drops steeply to Siding village in the Modi Khola valley. From Siding, a rough 4WD jeep track descends through the valley to join the Baglung Highway and return to Pokhara.
The Siding-to-Pokhara jeep journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours and covers 42 to 50 kilometers. The road from Siding to the highway is rough, steep, and unpaved — a 4WD vehicle with an experienced driver is necessary. Standard cars and local taxis cannot manage this route.
IMPORTANT: Always pre-book your Siding-to-Pokhara return jeep with Nepal Vehicle Hiring BEFORE beginning the trek. Do not expect to find available transport at Siding without prior arrangement, especially during peak trekking season (October, November, March, April).
| Siding to Pokhara Return Details | Information |
| Distance | 42–50 km |
| Drive Time | 2.5 to 3.5 hours |
| Road Type | Rough off-road jeep track from Siding to Baglung Highway – 4WD mandatory |
| Vehicle Required | 4WD Jeep – absolutely mandatory |
| Private Jeep Cost | NPR 6,000–9,000 one way |
| Sharing Jeep Cost | NPR 1,000–1,500 per person |
| Advance Booking | Essential – especially in October/November and March/April |
| The driver waits at the siding | Nepal Vehicle Hiring can arrange a driver to wait at tSidinging for your arrival. |
Return Transfer: Siwai (Kalimati) to Pokhara
Siwai (also called Kalimati or Syauli Bazaar) is an alternative trek endpoint in the lower Modi Khola valley, approximately 45-55 km from Pokhara. Some Mardi Himal trekkers descend via Landruk village to Siwai rather than Sidingding, connecting the Mardi Himal descent with the standard ABC return route.
| Siwai to Pokhara Details | Information |
| Distance | 45–55 km |
| Drive Time | 2.5 to 4 hours |
| Road Type | Rough jeep track – 4WD required |
| Private Jeep Cost | NPR 6,000–9,000 one way |
| Sharing Jeep | NPR 900–1,400 per person |
| Trek Connection | Modi Khola valley – also the endpoint for ABC and Jhinu Danda treks |
Complete Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle Packages from Nepal Vehicle Hiring
Nepal Vehicle Hiring offers complete vehicle packages covering both the outbound trailhead transfer AND the return vehicle from Siding or Siwai as a single coordinated booking:
| Package | Route | Vehicle | Cost (NPR) | Cost (USD) | Notes |
| Package A – Kande StarSidingding Return | Pokhara→Kande + Siding→Pokhara | Standard Jeep | NPR 9,000–14,500 | USD 67–108 | Most popular Mardi Himal package |
| Package B – Kande Start + Siding Return (Premium) | Pokhara→Kande + Siding→Pokhara | Hilux/Fortuner | NPR 12,000–18,000 | USD 90–135 | Best comfort for both legs |
| Package C – Dhampus Start + Siding Return | Pokhara→Dhampus + Siding→Pokhara | Hilux/Fortuner | NPR 14,500–21,000 | USD 108–157 | 4WD is essential for both legs |
| Package D – Kande Start + Ghandruk Return | Pokhara→Kande + Ghandruk→Pokhara | Hilux/Fortuner | NPR 12,000–20,000 | USD 90–150 | For the Mardi–Ghandruk circuit |
All package prices include driver and fuel for both legs. Contact Nepal Vehicle Hiring to confirm availability and exact pricing for your trek dates and group size.
Mardi Himal Trek Itineraries and Vehicle Timing Guide
5-Day Mardi Himal Trek – Most Popular Itinerary
| Day | Activity | Overnight | Altitude | Vehicle Needed |
| Day 1 | Drive Pokhara to Kande (45–60 min) – Trek Kande to Forest Camp (4–5 hrs) | Forest Camp | 2,600 m | Pokhara to Kande: NPR 3,000–5,500 |
| Day 2 | Trek Forest Camp to Low Camp (3–4 hrs) | Low Camp | 3,550 m | None |
| Day 3 | Trek Low Camp to High Camp to Mardi Base Camp Viewpoint – return to High Camp | High Camp | 3,580 m | None |
| Day 4 | Trek High Camp to Low Camp to Forest Camp to Siding (full day) | Siding | 1,700 m | None |
| Day 5 | Return jeep Siding to Pokhara (2.5–3.5 hrs) | Pokhara | 820 m | Siding to Pokhara: NPR 6,000–9,000 |
4-Day Fast Mardi Himal Trek
| Day | Activity | Overnight | Vehicle |
| Day 1 | Drive to Kande (45 min) – Trek Kande→Australian Camp→Forest Camp | Forest Camp | Vehicle on Day 1 only |
| Day 2 | Trek Forest Camp→Low Camp→High Camp | High Camp | None |
| Day 3 | Trek High Camp→Mardi Base Camp viewpoint (4,200 m)→return High Camp→Low Camp | Low Camp | None |
| Day 4 | Trek Low Camp→Forest Camp→Siding – Return jeep to Pokhara | Pokhara | Return jeep Day 4 |
7-Day Mardi Himal Trek – Full Experience
| Day | Activity | Overnight |
| Day 1 | Drive Pokhara to Kande – Trek to Australian Camp or Pothana | Pothana / Australian Camp |
| Day 2 | Trek Pothana→Forest Camp | Forest Camp (2,600 m) |
| Day 3 | Trek ForeCampamp→Low Camp | Low Camp (3,550 m) |
| Day 4 | Trek LowCampp→High Camp | High Camp (3,580 m) |
| Day 5 | Trek High Camp→Mardi Base Camp Viewpoint (4,200 m)→High Camp | High Camp |
| Day 6 | Trek High Camp→Low Camp→Forest Camp→Siding | Siding (1,700 m) |
| Day 7 | Return jeep Siding to Pokhara | Pokhara |
Mardi Himal Trek Route: Camp by Camp Guide
Kande (1,770 m) – The Trailhead
Kande is a small roadside settlement on the Pokhara-Baglung Highway where the Mardi Himal and Australian Camp trail begins. The trail rises steeply through oak and rhododendron forest from Kande. There are teahouses at Kande for breakfast and final supplies before the climb.
Australian Camp (2,060 m) – First Camppoint
Australian Camp is a grassy hilltop clearing approximately 1.5 to 2 hours above Kande, famous for its panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Named for the Australian trekking groups who popularised this viewpoint, it is an excellent first-day rest stop with multiple teahouse lodges.
Forest Camp (2,600 m) – The Forest Gateway
Forest Camp sits in the transition zone between the dense subtropical forest on the lower slopes and the beginning of the high-altitude ridge environment. The camp consists of a small collection of teahouse lodges in a forest clearing, with the Mardi Himal ridge rising above. From Forest Camp, the trail begins to climb more steeply northward along the ridge.
Low Camp (50 m) – High Country Entry
Low Camp marks the entry into genuinely high-altitude terrain. The forest gives way to dwarf bamboo and alpine shrubs. Mountain views open dramatically — Machhapuchhre/Fishtail appears directly ahead for the first time in its full, overwhelming close-range form. Most trekkers need two days to ascend comfortably from Forest Camp to Low Camp, depending on fitness and acclimatization.
High Camp Camp 80 m) – The Viewpoint Base
High Camp is one of the finest mountain viewpoints accessible on foot in the entire Annapurna region. The camp sits on the open ridge with the massive white faces of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli dominating the northern horizon. Mardi Himal itself rises to the northeast. Sunrises from High Camp over these peaks are extraordinary — many trekkers describe the High Camp sunrise as the highlight of the entire Mardi Himal experience.
Mardi Himal Base Camp Viewpoint (4,200 m)
The Mardi Himal Base Camp viewpoint at 4,200 meters is the highest point of the standard Mardi Himal Trek. At this altitude, the trekker stands at the base of the Mardi Himal glacier with the vertical faces of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Mardi Himal itself looming above. The panorama from this point — looking down the ridge to the Pokhara valley far below and up to the 7,000-meter and 8,000-meter peaks above — is one of the most spectacular viewpoints accessible without technical climbing in all of Nepal.
Siding (1,700 m) – The Descent End Point
Siding is a small village at the base of the Mardi Himal descent in the Modi Khola valley. The 4WD jeep pickup point is at the Siding village road access, Siding. The jeep track descends through the Modi Khola valley past Lumre to join the Baglung Highway for the return to Pokhara.
Permits Required for the Mardi Himal Trek
| Permit | Cost | Required For | Where to Obtain |
| ACAP – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit | NPR 3,000 (foreigners) | All visitors entering ACAP from Kande, Dhampus, or any Annapurna trailhead | Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara Lakeside |
| TIMS Card | NPR 2,000 (foreigners) | All trekkers on multi-day routes | Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara Lakeside |
| Licensed Guide (Mandatory) | Varies – typically NPR 3,000–5,000/day | As of April 1, 2023, all ACAP trekkers must have a licensed, government-approved guide. | Arrange through a trekking agency in Pokhara. |
IMPORTANT: A licensed government-approved trekking guide is now mandatory for all trekkers in the Annapurna Conservation Area (including the Mardi Himal Trek) under ACAP regulation, effective from April 1, 2023. Solo trekking without a guide is not permitted. Nepal Vehicle Hiring can assist with arranging guides.
Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal and Book Vehicle Transfer
Autumn (October to November) – Best Season
Autumn is the finest season for the Mardi Himal Trek. Post-monsoon clarity delivers extraordinary views from High Camp and the Base Camp viewpoint — Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and the Annapurna range appear in perfect focus against deep blue skies. The road to Kande is excellent, and the Siding return jeep track is in its best post-monsoon condition. October and November are peak season — book all vehicle transfers at least 5 to 7 days in advance.
Spring (March to May) – Excellent
Spring is beautiful on the Mardi Himal Trek. The rhododendron forests between Kande and Forest Camp are in spectacular full bloom in March and April — the trail passes through tunnels of pink, red, and white blossoms. Mountain views are generally excellent. The Baglung Highway and Siding Road are in good condition—a superb time for the trek and the vehicle transfers.
Winter (December to February) – Cold but Rewarding
Winter trekking on Mardi Himal is possible, and the views can be exceptional — snow-covered peaks against crystal-clear skies create outstanding photography conditions. However, High Camp and the Base Camp approach may have snow cover, making the final section challenging without ice-traction gear. The Kande road and the Siding jeep track are generally open to 4WD vehicles in winter.
Monsoon (June to August) – Not Recommended
Heavy monsoon rainfall makes the Mardi Himal trail extremely slippery above Forest Camp and the Siding return jeep track very hazardous due to landslides and deep mud. The trek is not recommended during the core monsoon months. September marks the beginning of the post-monsoon improvement.
What to Pack for the Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle Transfer
- ACAP permit and TIMS Card – obtain from Nepal Tourism Board in Pokhara before departure
- Full trekking backpack with all gear for the complete trek duration
- Warm down jacket and thermal layers – High Camp nights are well below freezing in autumn and winter
- Rain jacket – forest sections between Kande and Forest Camp can be wet even in autumn
- Small daypack accessible in the vehicle – water, snacks, camera, documents for the drive to Kande
- Water bottles (2 liters minimum) – refill at teahouses along the trail
- Trekking boots worn from hotel departure – start trekking immediately from the vehicle drop-off at Kande
- Nepali cash for teahouse accommodation, meals, and guide/porter fees – no ATMs on the Mardi trail
- Camera with a fully charged battery and a power bank – the Annapurna views from High Camp are extraordinary
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ and sunglasses – UV intensity is extremely high above 3,000 meters
Expert Tips for Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle Transfers
- Book BOTH the outbound Pokhara to Kande transfer AND the return Siding to Pokhara transfer before leaving Pokhara – returning trekkers who have not arranged this waSidingSiding for unpredictable periods
- For the return from Siding, Nepal Vehicle Hiring can arrange for the driver to wait at your expected finishing time – communicate your approximate arrival time to us before starting the trek.
- Request a 4WD Hilux or Fortuner specifically for the Siding return – the Modi Khola valley track requires proper clearance and diff lock capability.
- Depart from Pokhara to Kande early – a 7:00 AM departure gives you the full day for the Kande to Forest Camp first stage.
- For the Dhampus start option, depart even earlier (6:30 AM), as the rough jeep track to Dhampus adds time to the approach.
- The mandatory guide requirement is strictly enforced at the Kande ACAP checkpoint – do not arrive without a licensed guide expecting to pass.
- Collect your ACAP and TIMS permits from the Nepal Tourism Board in Pokhara Lakeside before the vehicle departure in the morning.
- Nepal Vehicle Hiring can arrange the complete Mardi Himal trek transport package: Pokhara to Kande outbound, Siding to Pokhara return, and any additional transfers in a single confirmed booking.
How to Book Your Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle with Nepal Vehicle Hiring
Booking your Mardi Himal trek vehicle transfers with Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd is simple:
- Step 1: Contact us via phone, WhatsApp, or at vehiclehiringnepal.com
- Step 2: Share your trek start date, trailhead preference (Kande, Dhampus, or Pothana), group size, hotel in Pokhara, and estimated trek finish date
- Step 3: Choose your vehicle package – outbound only, return only, or complete round-trip package
- Step 4: Provide your estimated Siding/Siwai arrival time so we can coordinate the return driver timing
- Step 5: Receive booking confirmation with driver details, vehicle information, and pickup times for both legs
- Step 6: On trek start day – your driver picks you up from your hotel and takes you to the trailhead
- Step 7: On trek finish day, your pre-arranged driver is waiting at Siding or Siwai to return you to Pokhara
We recommend booking at least 3 to 5 days in advance, and 7 days in advance during the October, November, March, and April peak seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where does the Mardi Himal Trek start from Pokhara?
The most popular starting point is Kande (1,770 m), approximately 22 km from Pokhara Lakeside on the Baglung Highway (45–60 minutes by vehicle). Alternative starting points include Dhampus (1,650 m) and Pothana (1,890 m), both of which require a rough 4WD jeep track beyond Hemja.
How much does the vehicle transfer from Pokhara to Kande cost?
A private jeep from Pokhara to Kande costs approximately NPR 3,000-5,500 one way (USD 22–41). A shared jeep seat costs NPR 4-o 700 per person. All private vehicle prices include driver and fuel.
Is a 4WD jeep necessary for the Mardi Himal trek transfers?
For the Pokhara-to-Kande outbound transfer, any vehicle type is adequate, as the road is paved. For Dhampus or Pothana start points, a 4WD jeep is mandatory due to the rough hillside track. For the return from Siding or Siwai, a 4WD jeep is essential — the Modi Khola valley track is rough and unpaved and cannot be managed by standard cars or taxis.
Where does the Mardi Himal Trek end, and how do I get back to Pokhara?
The most common endpoint is Siding village in the Modi Khola valley. Siding, a 4WD jeep, returns to Pokhara via the Baglung Highway (2.5 to 3.5 hours, NPR 6,000 to 9,000 for a private jeep). Always pre-book this return jeep with Nepal Vehicle Hiring before starting the trek.
What permits are required for the Mardi Himal Trek?
An ACAP permit (NPR 3,000 for foreigners) and a TIMS Card (NPR 2,000) are required. As of April 2023, a licensed, government-approved trekking guide is also mandatory for all trekkers in the ACAP area. Both permits are available from the Nepal Tourism Board in Pokhara Lakeside.
How many days does the Mardi Himal Trek take?
The most popular itinerary is a 5-day itinerary from Pokhara. A fast 4-day version is possible for fit trekkers. The full experience, including extra exploration days, takes 7 days. All versions use a vehicle for the Kande starting transfer and a return 4WD jeep.
Can Nepal Vehicle Hiring arrange both the outbound and return vehicles as a single booking?
Yes. Nepal Vehicle Hiring provides complete Mardi Himal trek vehicle packages covering the Pokhara to Kande outbound transfer and the Siding to Pokhara return transfer in a single coordinated booking. This ensures your return jeep is confirmed and waiting at the airport on the day you finish your trek.
Book Your Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle with Nepal Vehicle Hiring
The Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most spectacular and most personally rewarding short treks available from Pokhara — a route that delivers close-range views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and the Annapurna massif from a high-altitude ridge that feels genuinely remote and wild despite being just a short vehicle transfer from Pokhara Lakeside.
The vehicle transfers that bookend this trek — from Pokhara to Kande at the start, and from Siding back to Pokhara at the end — are an essential part of the Mardi Himal experience. Arranging both confidently and in advance with Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd ensures your trek begins and ends with complete peace of mind.
Contact Nepal Vehicle Hiring Pvt Ltd today at vehiclehiringnepal.com to book your Pokhara to Mardi Himal trek route vehicle transfers and begin one of Nepal’s finest ridge trek adventures.
Direct Bookings & Inquiries: vehiclehiringnepal.com
Call / WhatsApp (24/7): +977 9851013196
E-mail: [email protected]
Pokhara | Kathmandu | Chitwan | All Annapurna Region Destinations
- Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Route Vehicle 2026: Complete Jeep, Car & Transfer Guide
- About the Mardi Himal Trek
- All Mardi Himal Trek Trailheads and Finish Points from Pokhara
- Why Book a Private Vehicle for the Mardi Himal Trek Transfer?
- Vehicle Options: Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trailheads 2026
- Complete Vehicle Cost Guide: All Mardi Himal Transfer Points 2026
- Trailhead-by-Trailhead Vehicle Guide
- Complete Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle Packages from Nepal Vehicle Hiring
- Mardi Himal Trek Itineraries and Vehicle Timing Guide
- Mardi Himal Trek Route: Camp by Camp Guide
- Permits Required for the Mardi Himal Trek
- Best Time to Trek Mardi Himal and Book Vehicle Transfer
- What to Pack for the Pokhara to Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle Transfer
- Expert Tips for Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle Transfers
- How to Book Your Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle with Nepal Vehicle Hiring
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Book Your Mardi Himal Trek Vehicle with Nepal Vehicle Hiring
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