Mardi Himal starts near Pokhara and needs no flights beyond the city. Reaching Pokhara from Kathmandu is the longest leg, by road or short flight.
Kathmandu to Pokhara
Tourist buses take six to eight hours, and private cars are quicker. Flights take about 25 minutes. Roads can be slow in the monsoon, and flights are weather dependent.
Pokhara to the trailhead
A taxi or jeep to Kande or Phedi takes under an hour. From Kande the trail climbs to Australian Camp, Pothana and the forest. Many trekkers start in the morning to reach Forest Camp by afternoon.
Alternative starts
Some trekkers start at Siding or Lwang, climbing through villages to the ridge. Others use these routes to return. Ask your guide about road conditions, since landslides can close sections after heavy rain.
Returning
After the high viewpoint you descend by the same ridge or by another route to Siding. A jeep returns to Pokhara in a few hours.
Costs and options
A shared jeep from Pokhara to Kande costs very little, a taxi costs more, and a private vehicle gives you flexibility. The return from Siding or Lwang is similar. Because the road to Siding is rough, ask the driver to confirm times and check the weather before booking.
Planning start times
Start from Pokhara in the early morning so that you reach Forest Camp or Low Camp before the afternoon clouds. A late start means walking in the dark or paying for a night in a lower village.
Buffer
There are no mountain flights, so delays are rare, but keep a spare day for weather or road problems.
Choosing between bus and private car
A tourist bus is the cheapest way to reach Pokhara, while a private car saves time and lets you stop when you wish. Flights from Kathmandu take about half an hour but depend on weather.
Starting early at the trailhead
Reach the start by mid-morning so you have daylight for the first climb. Confirm your lodge before you set off, and carry water for the first stage.
Typical starting points
Most trekkers drive to Kande or Phedi and walk through Pothana, the forest camp and the High Camp. Another option starts from Siding. Your operator will confirm the best route.
