Mardi Himal trek trail at an elevation of 4500m takes trekkers to the base camp of Mardi Himal offering an extraordinary view of the majestic Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre and Manaslu. It also offers breathtaking view of blue glaciers of the Annapurna sanctuary. The location lies east of the Annapurna Base Camp in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This, off beaten trail takes the trekkers away from the other busy trail through the forest of Rhododendron and Juniper and the pristine little settlements of Tamang and Gurung people, all the way up to the base of Mardi Himal. Camping every night, sleeping under the stars and the mighty Himalayas offer utmost adventure to the trekkers.
Remember Annapurna range is the central home of iconic mountain landscapes and this Mardi Himal trekking is the perfect destination to glimpse the attractions of Annapurna range within a short time period. Truth to be told, multiple fantasy trekkers carries a dream to investigate the way of living and customs along with magnificent towering peaks all through Annapurna and this short Mardi Himal trekking path is the rewarding trekking destination for those potential trekkers who desire to trek within a short time. Due to countless reasons, this Mardi Himal trekking is also assisted to the register of superlative trekking paths of Annapurna region. Besides, focusing upon the elevation this destination establishes trekkers to make their trekking more effortless and painless.
Table of Contents
Main Highlights Of Mardi Himal Trek
- Magnificent sunrise and sunset views from numerous viewpoints
- Gorgeous landscapes, local villages, farmlands, rice terraces, stunning hills and mountains and colorful Rhododendron forests during spring
- Splendid views of Machhapuchhre Himal (6,993 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and the Annapurna South (7,010 m).
- Beautiful homestays and warm hospitality of the locals
- Chance to visit Mardi Himal Base Camp and the Mardi Himal High Camp
- Floral and faunal diversities in the region
- The socio-culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups
The Classic Itinerary For Mardi Himal Trek
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and trek preparation. | Meal: B
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara – Altitude: 850m | Drive: 6/7hrs | Meal: B
Day 04: Pokhara to Phedi drive and Trek to Pothana – Altitude: 1970m | Drive: 40min | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Pothana to Forest Camp – Altitude: 2550m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Forest Camp to High Camp – Altitude: 3580 m | Trek: 6 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 07: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp and back to High Camp – Altitude:4500 m | Trek: 6/7hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 08: High Camp to Siding Village – Altitude: 1850m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 09: Siding Village to Pokhara – Altitude: 850m | Trek: 2.5 hours | Drive:1 hour | Meal: BL
Day 10: Sightseeing and relaxing Pokhara. | Meal: B
Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. | Meal: B
Day 12: Departure day | Meal: B
What is the Minimum and Maximum Time frame Of The Mardi Himal Trek?
Well this generally depends upon the trekker preference if the trekkers are physically fit and can manage a 6-7 hours trek daily up the mountains then he/she can normally complete the trek in 6 days. So, if you are someone who hasn’t had much experience of trekking and want to trek enjoying each and every moment at the region then a 12 days time frame would be appropriate as it gives you the proper time to acclimatize and enjoy the scenic beauties of the trek.
How much Budget Is Required For The Mardi Himal Trek?
Well, the budget estimation depends on what kind of trek one is embarking on and how much of a spender one is. But generally the cost ranges from anywhere around US $500 to US $1000. It depends on how much one would like to splurge oneself with various extra luxuries as well.
How is Mardi Himal Trek in each season?
Although it is possible to trek in Nepal throughout the year on any given seasons but the best time to visit any region is in the Spring and Autumn.As during the autumn season, the weather tends to be relatively stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. And during Spring the weather is quite clear and the peaks are often visible and the temperature is warm and just ideal for a trek.
Spring Season(March-May):
The spring months are probably the most popular in the region as a whole. You might be caught in the occasional snow showers if you catch the end of the winter season, but the weather should be largely stable and dry- perfect for trekking and high altitude climbing.
Autumn Season(September-November):
Clear days are characteristic of this popular trekking period. Although colder days(and colder nights) are to be expected, this is a small price to pay for the wonderful vistas and perfect views of the region peaks. And added bonus of trekking during this time is the option to choose some other, less well-known routes in the area that still offer amazing views but without the hustle and bustle of the more popular routes.
Winter Season(Dec-Feb):
The region during this period can best be described as being very cold but still is trekkable. The days will be shorter and there is a lot more snow, thus routes that involve crossing big passes like the three passes trek are usually closed. The weather will be fairly stable and dry, meaning it is entirely possible to trek the classic route to Everest Base Camp in these months.One can expect the temperature to be as cold as -30degree Celsius at night higher up the route.
Summer Season/Monsoon Season(June-August):
Summer may sound like the prime time to visit Mount Everest, but it is also monsoon season during which the mountain can receive large amounts of rainfall. During the monsoon season, the Everest peak is, more often than not, shrouded in mist. Although a trek is doable during this season, it is quite difficult as the slippery trails, leeches and the lack of mountain views are just about enough reasons in off-putting most trekkers from trekking.
What Kind Of Accomodation Is Available In Mardi Himal Trek?
The accommodation during the trek in Annapurna Region will mostly be in tea houses and it also highly depends upon the routes one takes as well. As some of the less trodden areas of the region may not have as much tea houses as the frequently trekked routes. During most of the journey one will be staying in the teahouses which normally provides facilities such as food,hot shower, WIFI, charging facilities and accommodation. And also it depends upon the remoteness of the area and the availability of transportation in that particular area and also the altitude.
Rooms provided in the teahouses
Generally, the lower region of the Annapurna Region have twin basis room that may or may not have attached toilet. Incase they don’t one needs to share a common toilet. And the bed(s) in the rooms will have a foam mattress, bedsheet, blankets and pillows. If you are looking for a single room then the chances of finding one is better in the lower regions as the further you ascend the limited number of teahouses can be observed and getting a single room is pretty hard.
Toilets and Bathrooms Facilities
If you’re looking for a Western stylized toilets here in the mountains then you can find them only in the lower regions and most of the tea houses have Asian ‘squat’ type toilets. Not all tea houses provided have similar toilet and bathroom facilities as some might have separate system for toilet and bathroom. Usually for hot shower most of the tea houses provide you with the facility but know this by hot shower in some tea houses and places it can be a bucket of hot water and mug not the sprinkle one as you might be expecting.
Dining Rooms in the Teahouses
Every teahouse has a dining room for everyone to gather and indulge in satisfying one’s hunger of meals or stories to share with other trekkers. Most of the dining rooms in the tea houses are well heated so it is a great place for relaxing and socializing with other trekkers.
Is Internet/Electricity Available During Mardi Himal Trek?
As well most of the frequently trekked areas have electricity and internet facilities. But one cannot expect it to be similar to the service provided in the more developed areas of Nepal as it is in the mountains and the signals can drop significantly. Most of the teahouses in the frequented routes of this region are able to provide you with basic electricity facilities.
But the region also has many less trodden areas where the trekking routes has not been made popular and not many guest houses are available so in those places chances of the availability of internet is pretty rare. Although many development programs have been launched for promoting tourism here as well so the progress is being made but at the moment, not much can be said. There are teahouses and lodges but not as much as in comparison to other regions where trekkers frequently visit so internet and electricity is not available as in other regions.
How much is Mardi Himal Trek Difficult?
Trekking in this region is truly a joy and the region houses some of the best trekking opportunities. The region consists of treks ranging from moderate difficulty level to strenuous as well. As it’s not a plain walking surface and like most typical treks in Nepal there’s a lot of going up and down. The distance you cover does not require super fitness, the altitude does however make it tough. And also having a strong mind set is also very important while trekking in these parts of the mountains. Mardi Himal Trek is influenced by; your pack weight, a porter can make it much easier and season, if you’re cold and miserable then it is definitely harder.
To sum it up you will be walking 5 to 8 hours a day for 12 days, with a resting day or two for acclimatization.
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness ?
Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too quickly. It is wise to climb slower to prevent it. As, it is very common on most of the treks and can happen to anybody, irrespective of how old or fit you are or if you have previous trekking experience. So, here are some ways to prevent Altitude Sickness:
- Hydration– Drink plenty of water, it’s very important to stay hydrated.
- Trekking Pace– Walk at your own pace, take your time, don’t go too fast.
- Eat carbs– It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates but when you’re at higher altitudes, you need more calories.
- Avoid Alcohol– Alcohol,cigarettes and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. So, avoid it.
- Medication– Taking acetazolamide(Diamox)two days before the trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But is also used to prevent altitude sickness.
What are the Necessary Prerequisites to consider while Mardi Himal Trekking?
Necessary Permits Required
The necessary permits required for trekking to Annapurna Region are:
- TIMS card
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP)
Why do You Need Permits?
The trekking permits for Annapurna Region Trek has its own significance.
The permit helps to maintain the safety and security of the trekkers by keeping the trekker’s record inside the National Park. In case of any emergencies such as earthquakes, landslides, etc. the information can then gathered to help the authorities help you. Rules and Regulations is also maintained with the help of this permits.
Once you enter the region the Local Area Permit helps to keep a record of the trekkers. This permit, allows to enter the region but must follow the local rules and regulations. The amount gathered from the permit are then used by the local authority for the maintenance of the trails, rest stops and information centers for the travelers.
Necessary Documents for Permit?
You just need your passport details, two photos, and you also need to fill up a short form to obtain the permit. All these fees are payable in local currency only.
Important documents and items:
- Valid passport, 2extra passport size photos, airline tickets
- Separate photocopies of passport, visa form( easily obtained at Kathmandu airport), proof of insurance
- Dollars, pounds or Euros in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport, for paying for restaurants and hotels, for gratuities, snacks, and to purchase your own drinks and gifts
- Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines(bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler’s checks, etc.
Necessity of Insurance:
While traveling to Nepal, you are requested to have travel insurance that should cover any comprehensive expenses possible to acquire due to medical issues or accidents. Especially, your travel insurance must protect air ambulance, treatment charges, rescue and evacuation, product cancellation and refundable charges, flight delays, and cancellations.
Insurance Policy:
Traveling in the Himalayas is full of adventurous; hence it is wise to choose a proper insurance policy. While choosing your insurance policy, make sure that it will protect all such unforeseen expenses. You must ensure that the policy you do take provides an adequate level of protection, well familiar with your itinerary and covers you for the activities involved. You must carry proof of insurance (e.g. your insurance certificate) with you on holiday or send us a scanned copy and it must be issued from your homeland.
How much do you tip Guides and Porter in Nepal?
In Nepal tipping is not mandatory but it is expected as major earning or saving funds is the tips for the guide/porter. Tipping is based on the experience you had with your trekking team. It totally depends upon how you felt about the services and overall hospitality that was provided to you so if you are satisfied you can tip them accordingly. Generally, 12-15% of the trip cost is considered ideal for tipping. You can divide the cost amongst the guide and porter as per your level of satisfaction.
How to prepare yourself for Trekking In Nepal?
It is very important to be fully prepared before undertaking any trips or going on a long journey.
It is vital for any traveler or trekker to always have a list of important prerequisites with them at all times. Here are the list of things one needs to consider while going on a trek.
Physical Condition and Preparation:
It is very important that one should be of sound health before undertaking any kind of trek. Most treks are suitable for passionate walkers who have the ability to walk at least 6-7 hours a day with a light rucksack. It’s not necessary that the trek is going to be 6-7 hours a day sometimes it might even be 7-8 hours. Walking in higher altitudes is more physically demanding than walking in the lower altitudes; however, if we are in excellent health with average physical fitness, have a positive attitude and strong determination, we can accomplish the trek successfully. Exercising and jogging regularly is a good idea to enhance our strength and stability. If one has past experiences with hiking then that would be an asset but no technical skills are required for this trip. Also, we advise you to consult with your doctor(s) before undertaking the trip.
Can one wear jeans while trekking to Mardi Himal?
We normally recommend trekkers to wear hiking shorts and track suits as it helps a lot while trekking and is much more comfortable than jeans. But if you will be comfortable in jeans you can trek in jeans as well as the main priority is comfort while trekking.
What Are The Differences Between Mardi Himal Trek And Poonhill Trek?
Mardi Highlights
- Altitude is 4,500m
- This trek is more natural and less commercialized
- As it is a comparatively newer trek to Mardi than Poonhill so its least visited trail and offers unspoiled beauty of nature
- Due to its less exposure in comparison to other touristy areas, it is relatively fresh and less crowded
- Very few have made it through the untrodden tails to the mysterious valley so a trek there will be a mythical experience to explore the unrouged trails, villages, lifestyle, panoramic mountain vista, green-lush forest, and scenic landscape
- This trek takes the upper ridges route of the mountains, so one can expect forests, rhododendrons, and pastures
Poon Hill Highlights
- Altitude is 3,210m
- As it’s a famous trek and most people visit Nepal every year for this trek its more commercialized meaning better meals and accommodation but the chances of the route being crowded are high so, if you like traveling in peace and soaking in the beauty of nature, you might want to consider
- Poonhill is best known for the views that can be gazed upon reaching the top of the view tower, it’s a magical moment and is very refreshing
- It’s easier to trek in this region as most of the routes are discovered and trekked upon so the safety factor is high
- And also this trek comes across many hot springs for you to enjoy on the way, so one can relax and drown their exhaustion in the hot springs[ Note: Tatopani Hot Spring is a very famous one]
- One can gaze at the stunning view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Hinchuli, Mt. Dhaulagiri
Where Do You Get The Permits For The Trek?
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP) can be issued from Nepal Tourism Board located in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu City. And TIMS card can be issued from Bhrikutimandap or Thamel.
Can You Do Mardi Himal Trek Without A Guide?
It is possible to do the Mardi Himal Trek without a guide but we advise you to take a guide as it is considered a strenuous trek and has lots of high altitude passes one being the Thorong La Pass. So, it would be wise to take a guide with you for the trek.
Can You Stay At Mardi Himal Base Camp?
No, you cannot stay at the base camp as there are no lodges and treehouses to accommodate oneself with but you can sightsee for a while and take pictures.
What Is The Altitude Of Mardi Himal High Camp and Base Camp?
The altitude of Mardi Himal High Camp is 3580m above from the sea level and Base Camp is at an altitude of 4500m above from the sea level.
Where Does The Mardi Himal Trek Start From?
The Mardi Himal Trek starts off from Kande after 1 hours drive from Pokhara. The trail is good, first slowly, then a bit steeper to Australian Camp (2060m – About one hour), then after that slightly downhill to Pothana (1950m) then up again to Deurali (2100m).
What Is The Total Distance Of Mardi From Kathmandu?
The total distance of Mardi Himal from Kathmandu is 161km.
What Is The Total Distance Of Mardi Himal From Pokhara?
The total distance of Mardi Himal from Pokhara is 31km.
What Is The Total Distance Of Mardi Himal From Kande?
The total distance of Mardi Himal from Kande is 24km.
Is it safe to Trek to Mardi Himal?
Trekking anywhere won’t be safe until and unless one follows all the safety measures and is prepared and cautious. As long as you follow the rules and instructions while trekking it’s pretty much safe to trek anyplace anywhere.
What Equipments are Required for the Trek?
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Also, understand that the items listed below will vary a little according to the season and the trek duration. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 15 kg. Remember that your luggage will be carried by your porter but you are required to carry a day-pack (with your valuables or anything important) on your own. We also suggest that you pack what is necessary.
Head
- Bandana or headscarf, also useful for dusty conditions
- Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
- Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Prescription sunglasses (if required)
Upper Body
- Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
- Down vest and/or jacket
- Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable
Hands
- 1 pair of lightweight poly liner gloves.
- 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
- 1 pair of mittens, consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)
Lower Body
- Non-cotton underwear briefs
- 1 pair of Hiking shorts
- 1 pair of Hiking trousers
- 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
- 1 pair of fleece or wool trousers
- 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric
Feet
- 2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
- 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
- 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, “broken-in”)
- 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
- Cotton socks (optional)
- Gaiters (winter only), optional, “low” ankle high version
Sleeping
- 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)
- Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
Rucksack and Travel Bags
- 1 medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
- 1 large duffel bag
- A small daypack/backpack for carrying your valuables should have good shoulder padding
- Small padlocks for duffle-kit bags
- 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)
Medical
- Small, personal first-aid kit. (simple and light)
- Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
- 1 skin-blister repair kit
- Anti-diarrhea pills
- Anti-headache pills
- Cough and/or cold medicine
- Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetazolamide
- Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills as they are a respiratory depressant.
- Water purification tablets or the water filter
- 1 set of earplugs
- Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
Practical Items
- 1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing-repair kit
- 1 cigarette lighter, 1 small box of matches
- 1 compass or GPS(optional)
- 1 alarm clock/watch
- 1 digital camera with extra cards and batteries
- large Ziplocs
- 2 water bottles (1 liter each)
- 1 small folding knife
- Binoculars (optional)
- 4 large, waterproof, disposable rubbish sacks
Toiletries
- 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
- Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
- Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
- Deodorants
- Nail clippers
- Face and body moisturizer
- Female hygiene products
- Small mirror
Personal Hygiene
- Wet wipes (baby wipes)
- Tissue /toilet roll
- Anti-bacterial handwash
Extras/Luxuries
- Reading book
- Trail map/guide book
- Journal and pen
- iPod
- Travel game i.e. chess, backgammon, scrabble, playing cards (to help you pass the time at tea- houses and/or camps)
- 1 modest swimsuit
- Binoculars (optional)
- Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
- Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)
- Lightweight (in case your tea houses provide you with pillows) or use your own stuff as a pillow
Some Other Treks In The Annapurna Region?
1. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna base camp trek is an amazing walk through diverse landscape and culture complete with rich mountain vistas, terraced fields, quaint Gurung villages and a wide variety of flora and fauna. Mt. Annapurna (8091m) of Nepal is the 10th highest mountain in the world and the journey to its base camp, which is at 4130m/13549ft height, is one of the most popular walks on earth. Moreover, we reach our destination via Mt. Machhapuchhare (Fishtail) which is revered by the Nepalese for its unique beauty. Furthermore, thanks to the well groomed itinerary of the Annapurna Base Camp trekking package, it is a popular choice among diverse outdoor enthusiasts, from a solo female traveler to hikers travelling in groups to Nepal. It is regarded probably one the best legendary and classical treks in the world which offers majestic mountain View, give opportunity to experience the typical Nepali village, local people and their way of living traditional life in Himalaya of Nepal. The Annapurna Base Camp route goes passing through spectacular and tranquil landscapes, charming Gurung and Magar villages, lush green Rhododendron, bamboo and alpine forests to the trip’s last and final destination, Annapurna Base Camp at the height of 4130m (13546ft. the trek offers a beauty of mother nature at its real best.
Here is the standard itinerary for Annapurna region.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, transfer to hotel (Altitude: 1350/4428 ft.)
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara, transfer to Hotel (Altitude: 823 m/2710 ft. Drive: 5/6 hrs. Meal: Breakfast)
Day 03: Drive to Nayapul, Tirkedhunga (Altitude: 1,577m/5205 ft.; Drive: 1 hrs. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani (Altitude: 2,800m/9,186ft Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meals: BLD)
Day 05: Early Morning Excursion to Poon Hill for sunrise view and trek to Tadapani (Altitude: At Poonhill: 3210 m/10531 ft. Tadapani: 2,600m/8528 ft. Trek: 7-8 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 06: Trek to Chhomrong (Altitude: 2170 m/7095 ft. Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 07: Trek to Dovan or Himalaya (Altitude: 2,600m/8580 ft. Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 08: Trek to Machhapuchhre Base Camp (Altitude: 3,700m/12210 ft. Trek: 3/4 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 09: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp and back to Deurali (Altitude: 4,130m/13,545ft. 3,231m /12210 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 10: Trek to Bamboo (Altitude: 2,300m/7,544 ft. Trek: 6/7 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 11: Trek to Jhinu Danda (Altitude: 1,780m/5,859 ft. Trek: 5-6 hrs. Meal: BLD)
Day 12: Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara (Altitude: 823m/2,700ft Trek: 6-7 hrs. Drive: 2 hrs. Meal: BL)
Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu; evening Farewell Dinner (Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. Drive: 5-6 hrs. Meal: B)
Day 14: Departure transfer (Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. Meal: Breakfast)
2. Tilicho Lake Trek
Tilicho Lake – the highest lake in the world is located in the Manang district of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 ft) in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas. Tilicho Lake Trekking starts from Besisahar, which goes along the Marshyangdi River, with great views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. This magnificent Tilicho lake trekking leads you to the fine village inhabited by a wide diversity of people from different ethnic groups, offering spectacular and majestic views of the white Himalayas.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu – Altitude: 1400m
Day 02: Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar and jeep drive to Manang – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Drive: 8/9hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 03: Acclimatization in Manang | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Trek Manang to Tilicho Base Camp – Altitude: 4200m | Trek: 6 to 7 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Excursion to Tilicho Lake, back to Tilicho Base Camp/Khangsar village – Altitude: 4,919 m | Trek: 6 to 7 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Drive Khangsar village to Besisahar – Altitude: 760m | Meal: BLD
Day 07: Drive Besisahar to Kathmandu | Meal: B
Day 08: Departure | Meal: B
3. Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna circuit trek is the trekking route within the Annapurna mountain range of central Nepal. The Annapurna area was opened to foreign trekkers in 1977 AD before that there was a restriction by the government of Nepal. The total length of the routes varies between (160-230km), depending upon the motor transportation is used where the track ends. This trek way crosses two different river valleys and encircles the Annapurna massif. This path reaches the highest point at Thorung La pass touching the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. All the trekkers goes through anti-clockwise as traveling this way the daily attitude gain comes slower and slower and crossing the high Thorung La pass will also be easier and safer.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu.
Day 02: Sightseeing | Meal: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar Drive: 6/7 hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Jeep drive to Chame (Stopover for acclimatization) – Altitude: 2670 m/8810 ft. | Drive: 4/5 hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Trek Chame to Pisang – Altitude: 3200 m/10524 ft. Trek: 5/6 hrs | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Trek Pisang to Manang, Overnight at the local lodge – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Trek: 5 to 6 hrs. | Meal: BLD
Day 07: Rest day at Manang for acclimatization – Altitude: 3400 m/11152 ft. | Meal: BLD
Day 08: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka – Altitude:4,050m/13,287ft | Trek: 4-5 hour | Meal: BLD
Day 09: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi – Altitude:4,833m/15,856ft | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 10: Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath – Altitude:3,760m/12,335ft via Thorung La Pass – Altitude: 5,416m | Trek: 8 hours. | Meal: BLD
Day 11: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni – Altitude: 2,804 m/9,199 ft | 4-5 hour. | Meal: BLD
Day 12: Trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom – Altitude: 2810 m) 3-4 hour. | Meal: BLD
Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara and transfer to hotel. | Meal: BLD
Day 14: Drive back to Kathmandu – Altitude: 1350/4428 ft. | Meal: B
Day 15: Departure transfer | Meal: Breakfast
4. Ghorepani/Poonhill Trek
Poon hill trekking is also known as the Annapurna sunrise trekking or Annapurna Panorama trekking. This trekking is comparatively easy and most popular to the tourists among the treks. The viewpoint of Poon hill (3210m) that marks the destination of the beautiful trek. Trekkers can enjoy the treks with incredible Himalayan attraction. There are different packages for Poon hill Trekking. The journey of trek starts from the flight of Kathmandu valley towards beautiful Pokhara city. After landing on the Pokhara city, after one and a half hour drive they can reach Nayapul. After that according to the package they start for a trek. If trekker goes for the 3 days trekking than it starts through Nayapul trek to Ulleri being Ghorepani Poon hill and back to Hile and from Hile again drive back to Pokhara. Now for the 4 days trekking it starts through Nayapul trek to Ulleri being Ghorepani Poon hill and then another route to Nayapul through Tadapani and Ghandruk village. Again in the same way, for 5 days trekking it starts through Nayapul trek to Ulleri being Ghorepani Poon hill and then another route to Nayapul through Tdapani, Ghandruk village, Tolka and then Dhampus village. For this route of trekking overall the trekker should walk 6 to 7 hours per day. The price of the trekking also differs according to the packages of trekking. On the way trekkers can enjoy more small villages and mountain sceneries too. Trekkers especially can feel the whistle of the Rhododendron forest full of birds and amazing valleys also the snow capped mountains.
Here’s the standard itinerary for Ghorepani Poonhill Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu – Altitude:1,400 m | Meal: Breakfast
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara in a Tourist Bus | Trek: 6/7 hours | Meal: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Nayapul – Altitude:1,010 m and Trek to Tikhedunga – Altitude:1,570 m | Trek: 4 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani – Altitude:2,840 m | Trek: 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 05: Hike up to Poon Hill – Altitude:3,210 m and Trek to Tadapani – Altitude:2,610 m | Trek: 7 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 06: Trek to Ghandruk – Altitude:1,940 m | Trek: 4 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 07: Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara – 5 hours | Meal: BLD
Day 08: Drive Back to Kathmandu | Trek: 7 hrs | Meal: BD
Day 09: Spare Day | Meal: Breakfast
Day 10: Transfer to the International Airport for Your Final Departure. | Meal: Breakfast Hope this Information regarding the Mardi Himal Trek gives you useful insights on how to prepare oneself for the trek to the beautiful, magnificent and aspiring region i.e. The Annapurna. So, if the above mentioned things are taken into proper consideration than you will have a wonderful time trekking in the most spectacular region. Carry all the necessary permits as mentioned above take all the precautions and there’s no way you are not going to have a wonderful time.