Source of image: Google
Duration
9 Days
Difficulty Level
Leisurely Plus
Best Season
Sept-May
Max. Altitude
3,230 M
About Trek
Outlined Itinerary
Cost Includes
Cost Excludes
About Trek
The Annapurna Machhapuchhre Trek, also known as the Mardi Himal hiking, is a trekking route that offers a remarkable mountain profile. Its unique path takes you away from the busy trekking paths, allowing you to explore the unspoiled Himalayan communities and forests that have not yet been impacted by tourism. This trekking route was previously all camping, but with newly opened tea houses for lodging, it offers a more comfortable experience. The Machhapuchhre trip is an excellent option for those who have limited time but still want to experience the essence of exploration.
The trek is less than two weeks long and offers a close-up view of the majestic Mardi Himal, the sacred Mount Machapuchare, and numerous other peaks in the Annapurna range. As you climb through the immaculate oak and rhododendron forest and past the historic towns, you will see below the vast ice fields and the blue glaciers of the Annapurna sanctuary walls. Additionally, you can descend from various paths to the pleasant villages and warm valleys beside the Mardi River. The trek is still far from the well-traveled paths, making it a unique experience.
The trip starts with a drive from Pokhara to Phedi, from where you will begin your ascent up the Dhampus to reach Mardi Himal. The route offers an opportunity to explore the varied topography and cultural aspects of the region. You will be accompanied by a hiking guide with medical training and an additional oxygen tank, ensuring your safety throughout the trek.
Outlined Itinerary
Annapurna Machhapuchhre Model Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Travel 200 km by car from Kathmandu to Pokhara on Day 1
Drive time: five to six hours
Day 2: Travel 19 km to Mardi Pul and hike 1430 m/4691 ft to Ribhan
One-hour drive and five to six hours of hiking
Day 3: Trek 645 meters (8677 feet) from Ribhan to Chichimle Kharka
Trekking time: six to seven hours
Day 4: Trek from Chichimle Kharka to Khumai Danda (10646 feet/3245 meters)
Duration: a 5- to 6-hour walk
Day 5: Trek 3650 meters (11975 feet) from Khumai Danda to Korchon
Trekking time: four to five hours
Day 6: Day 6 in Korchon is an acclimatization day
Day 7: Walk from Korchon to Takru (1450m/4757ft)
Trekking time: 7-8 hours
Day 8: Drive to Pokhara after trekking from Takru to Saitighatta.
Two hours of hiking and six hours of driving
Day 9: Travel 200 kilometers by car from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Drive time: five to six hours
Cost Includes
The trip cost includes
- Airport transfers for both domestic and international flights
- Standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast on a twin-sharing basis
- Full board meals while on the three passes trekking
- A porter for each trekker
- Accommodation at a teahouse or lodge on twin shares a private room.
- Welcome dinner with a cultural program as listed in the itinerary.
- Half-day guided city tour with world heritage entrance permit
- All domestic flights and airport taxes listed in the itinerary.
- Free use of quality trekking gear, including a sleeping bag, fleece liner, down jacket, and rain poncho as required.
- Professional trek guide trained in Wilderness First Aid and trek crew with salary, wages, transportation, proper insurance, and required trek gear.
- Supplementary OXYGEN cylinder and comprehensive First Aid Kit as a safety backup
- Complementary trek Duffle bag, T-shirts, and trek map
- TIMS or VDC trekking permit, Annapurna Machhapuchhre Trek entry fees, VAT, all government taxes, etc.
Cost Excludes
The trip cost excludes
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Travel insurance of any kind
- International airfare
- All beverage drinks
- Main meals (lunch and dinner) in cities
- Tips and items of personal expenses such as hot showers, battery charges, telephone, and beverage drinks
