Mardi Himal Trek

12 Days
Guest: 2+

Overview

A recently introduced trekking route in the Annapurnas, this is a much less frequented trail, resulting in very few encounters with fellow trekkers. Due to these factors, tea-house style accommodations are not available on this trek, and camping will be the method of sustainment. The appeal of this route lies in its excellent close-up views of Mt. Mardi and Machhapuchare, as well as a host of peaks belonging to the Annapurna range. The ethnic settlements of Brahmins, Chhetris, Gurungs and Tamangs found in this region have little exposure to outsiders; hence this journey will provide trekkers with a measure of authenticity that is unique considering its short distance from Pokhara. A moderate journey through lush rhododendron forests, with splendid mountain views and an abundant feeling of peace and quiet, this trek will satisfy those who desire a real wilderness-style adventure.

Package Highlights:

This trekking route has been chosen with attention to preventing AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) through adequate time for acclimatization via a gradual ascent. This is a moderate hike, involving an average 6 – 8 hours daily of walking on varying terrain. Autumn (Sep – Nov) and Spring (Mar – May) are the best seasons to trek in the Annapurnas, with warm sunny days and crisp cold nights. Winter (Dec – Feb) can offer great visibility during the days, but may be too cold for some and there is a chance some routes may be impassible due to snow. The summer monsoon (Jun – Jul) can be an interesting time to trek, providing for lush vegetation and balmy weather, though you’ll undoubtedly experience copious amounts of rainfall.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu.

You will be greeted at the airport by a representative from Outdoor Expeditions and transported to your hotel. Unwind from your flight and meet us in the evening for a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant.

Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and trip preparations.

Relax for the afternoon and enjoy a guided tour of Kathmandu’s unique attractions. We’ll spend the day exploring several of the city’s most famous cultural landmarks like the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bhagamati, Swayambunath (Monkey Temple), and Bouddhanath, Nepal’s largest and most revered Buddhist stupa. In the evening we’ll meet with your trekking guide and team members for a trip briefing and preparations for the journey.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 823m/2700ft: 6 hours drive

We’ll depart Kathmandu this morning by private van or bus for Pokhara. The scenic drive will take us through scenic countryside to the famous lakeside city where we can relax for the evening and savor the spectacular mountain views over Fewa Lake.

Day 4: Drive from Pokhara to Kaski. Trek to Pothana 1620m/5314ft: 1 hour drive and 4 hours walk

Departing Pokhara by private van to our starting point near the Tibetan refugee camp in Kaski, we climb a steep trail via Phedi to Dhampus. Excellent views of Machhapuchare unfold as we reach our first overnight stop in Pothana.

Day 5: Trek from Pothana to Forest Camp 2550m/8360ft: 5 – 6 hours walk

Departing Pothana we enter an untouched region of birch, oak, maple, and rhododendron forest. The serenity of this less-traveled trail, with clear views of Machhapuchare and Annapurna I are spectacular. Our camp will be set in a forest clearing off of the main trail.

Day 6: Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp 3400m/11020ft: 5 – 6 hours walk

Ascending high above the Modhi Khola, we witness the flora change into the conifer and lichens of higher altitude terrain. Hiulchuli and Annapurna South make appearances through the tree line as we ascend to our next camping site within the forest. The sunset views of Machhapuchare from our campsite are fantastic.

Day 7: Trek from Low Camp to High Camp 4100m/13550ft: 4 – 5 hours walk

The day begins with a steep climb, taking us above the tree line to an exposed hillside from where amazing mountain scenery surrounds us. We arrive early in the afternoon to rest in the higher altitude and enjoy the majestic views.

Day 8: Rest day at High Camp, visit Mardi Himal 5000m/16,400ft: 5 hours walk

Spend the morning enjoying a fantastic sunrise over the Annapurna Himal. We’ll set out after breakfast to reach the highlight of our trip, the crest of Mardi Himal, from where the panoramic views of the Annapurna region are astounding. Machhapuchare’s face stands a stone’s throw from us, and the glacial fields of the Annapurna Sanctuary glisten below us beneath the towering peak of Annapurna I. After savoring the unforgettable scenery, we descend back to High Camp for the evening.

Day 9: Trek from High Camp to Siding Village 1750m/95740ft: 5 – 6 hours walk

Descending from High Camp through the solitude of the forest, we emerge into the verdant slopes of the middle hills, dressed in a patchwork of terraced fields and striated with waterfalls and rivers. Our descent will take us to Siding Village, near the banks of the Mardi Khola.

Day 10: Trek from Siding Village to roadside pickup and drive to Pokhara: 3 hours walk and 2 hours drive

Following the Mardi Khola valley passed several villages, we arrive at our roadside pickup site. We board our private van and travel to Pokhara, arriving in the late afternoon in time to enjoy the sunset over Fewa Lake in the evening.

Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 6 hours

Depart by private van or bus this morning for Kathmandu. Spend the evening in Thamel reminiscing after an amazing journey.

Day 12: Depart Kathmandu

Take care of any last minute shopping or sightseeing as time permits. You’ll be picked up at your hotel three hours prior to your departure flight. Thanks for traveling with Outdoor Expeditions. Farewell and Namaste.

Package Includes:

Airport pickup and drop off in private vehicle
Hotel with included breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Private transportation and government licensed guide while sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
Entrance fees for attractions (UNESCO world heritage sites, museums, etc.) during sightseeing in Kathmandu
Government licensed, experienced trekking guide and porters during trekking
Insurance for trekking crew (guides and porters)
All required equipment for trekking crew,
Accommodations in hotels, tea-houses, or camps during trekking
Three daily meals while trekking
All required conservation fees and trekking permits (TIMS)and more require for trekking.

Package Excludes:

Lunch and dinner while in city’s as like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Personal insurance or cost of air rescue in the event of emergency
Air ticket to and from Nepal from your point of origin
Visa fee for entry into Nepal
Personal expenses (souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, hygiene items, staff tips, etc.)