Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal – 12 Days

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be there to greet you. From there, you’ll enjoy a private transfer to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable check-in. After your journey, you can unwind at the hotel or step out to explore Kathmandu’s vibrant streets and cultural treasures. In the evening, you’ll meet your expert guide for a detailed briefing on the ABC Trek with and Mardi Himal. Any missing gear will be provided, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic 7-8 hour bus ride to Pokhara, passing lush mountains, natural springs, and the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. Opt for a quick 25-minute flight (extra cost) to save time and soak in Pokhara’s beauty. The valley boasts serene lakes like Fewa, Begnas, and Rupa, alongside breathtaking views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri. From here, your Mardi Himal Trek with ABC via Poon Hill begins, blending adventure and tranquility in Nepal’s Himalayan paradise.

Drive from Pokhara to Jhinu Danda (~75 km, 4-5 hours) via Nayapul, enjoying scenic views of the Modi Khola River. From Jhinu, trek to Lower Sinuwa (2,360 m) via Chhomrong (2,165 m), a 4-5 hour journey through steep ascents, terraced fields, and lush forests. The trail includes a suspension bridge, stone steps, and stunning views of Annapurna and Machapuchare. Ensure you have the ACAP and TIMS permits, and pack essentials like sturdy shoes and warm clothing. Teahouses in Chhomrong and Lower Sinuwa offer overnight stays. Best trekked in spring or autumn for clear skies and pleasant weather. Enjoy the adventure!

The trek from Sinuwa (2,136 meters) to Deurali (3,230 meters) is a scenic and rewarding section of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek in Nepal, typically taking around 6-7 hours to complete. The journey begins with a descent from Sinuwa to Bamboo (2,310 meters), which takes about 1-1.5 hours through lush forests. From Bamboo, the trail gradually ascends to Dovan (2,600 meters), a rocky path following the Modi Khola river, taking another 1-1.5 hours. The next stretch from Dovan to Himalaya (2,920 meters) is steeper and takes about 1.5-2 hours, passing through dense forests. Finally, the trail climbs further to Deurali (3,230 meters), which takes around 1.5-2 hours, with the landscape becoming more rugged as you gain altitude. Along the way, trekkers are treated to stunning views of the Himalayas, lush greenery, and the soothing sounds of the river. It’s important to be mindful of altitude changes, stay hydrated, and wear sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be uneven. Weather conditions can change quickly, so packing layers and rain gear is essential. This trek is a beautiful and immersive experience, offering a mix of natural beauty and physical challenge

The trek from Annapurna Base Camp (4130m) to Bamboo (2350m) is a 6-7 hour descent through diverse landscapes. You’ll start amidst towering peaks and descend through alpine terrain, rhododendron forests, and traditional villages like Deurali and Dobhan. The trail is steep and rocky in parts, with stone steps and uneven paths. As you near Bamboo, the scenery shifts to lush subtropical forests and bamboo groves. Bamboo offers basic teahouses for rest, with the soothing sound of the Modi Khola river nearby. The trek is challenging but rewarding, with ever-changing views and a dramatic shift in climate.

The trek from Bamboo (2350m) to Landruk (1565m) is a scenic and moderately challenging journey that takes approximately 6-7 hours to complete. Starting in the lush greenery of Bamboo, the trail descends through dense forests, crossing rivers and waterfalls, offering a serene and refreshing atmosphere. As you continue, the path opens up to terraced fields and traditional villages, providing glimpses of local life and culture. The descent to Landruk is gradual but steady, with stunning views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges accompanying you along the way. Landruk, a charming Gurung village, welcomes trekkers with its warm hospitality, cozy teahouses, and panoramic mountain vistas, making it a perfect stop to rest and rejuvenate after a rewarding day of trekking.

The trek from Landruk (1565m) to Low Camp (3050m) is a 5-6 hour journey that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and physical challenge. Starting in the picturesque Gurung village of Landruk, the trail descends to the Modi Khola River before climbing through dense rhododendron and oak forests to Deurali (2100m) and Himalpani (2450m). The final ascent to Low Camp is steep and rugged, offering stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Low Camp, at 3050m, provides a peaceful resting spot with basic teahouses and breathtaking mountain vistas. This trek is a rewarding adventure through diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences.

The trek from Low Camp (3050m) to High Camp (3600m) via Badal Danda is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey, typically taking around 6 hours to complete. Covering a distance of approximately 5-6 km with an elevation gain of 550 meters, the trail is steep, rocky, and uneven, with some exposed sections that require careful navigation. The highlight of this trek is Badal Danda, which translates to “Cloud Ridge,” offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and valleys. On a clear day, you might find yourself walking above the clouds, with panoramic vistas of iconic mountains like Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. The trail itself is diverse, passing through lush forests, open ridges, and alpine meadows, making it a visually stunning experience.

High Camp, your destination, is a serene and picturesque spot with unparalleled views of the Annapurna range. It’s an ideal place to rest and acclimatize before continuing your journey. To make the most of this trek, it’s important to start early, ideally around 7-8 AM, to avoid afternoon clouds and potential rain. Sturdy trekking boots with good grip are essential due to the slippery and rocky terrain, and carrying warm layers, rain gear, and sun protection is advisable given the unpredictable weather. Staying hydrated and having energy snacks on hand will help maintain your energy levels throughout the trek. Hiring a porter or guide can also ease the journey, especially if you’re carrying heavy gear or need assistance navigating the trail. This trek is a memorable part of the Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal routes, combining natural beauty with a satisfying physical challenge

Trekking from High Camp (3600m) to Mardi Base Camp (4500m) and then returning to Badal Danda (3250m) is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The journey begins with a steep ascent from High Camp to Mardi Base Camp, covering about 4-5 kilometers and gaining 900 meters in elevation. This section typically takes 4-6 hours, depending on your pace and the weather conditions. The trail is rugged and demanding, with rocky terrain and potential snow or ice at higher altitudes, especially during colder months. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli, as well as the stark beauty of the alpine landscape. The final push to Mardi Base Camp is particularly strenuous due to the high altitude, but the panoramic views of the Himalayas make it all worthwhile.

After soaking in the majestic scenery at Mardi Base Camp, the return journey involves descending to Badal Danda, which is about 10-12 kilometers and takes roughly 6-8 hours. The trail retraces your steps back to High Camp before continuing downhill through lush rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages like Siding. The descent is steep in places, so trekking poles can be helpful to ease the strain on your knees. As you make your way to Badal Danda, you’ll enjoy a mix of natural beauty and cultural immersion, with the added bonus of stunning mountain views from Badal Danda itself.

This trek requires a good level of physical fitness and proper preparation. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness, so spending a night at High Camp before attempting the ascent to Mardi Base Camp is highly recommended. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so it’s important to check forecasts and pack accordingly, including warm clothing, sturdy boots, and essential gear. Staying hydrated and carrying high-energy snacks will help maintain your energy levels during the long trekking day. Hiring a local guide or porter is also a good idea, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain. Overall, this trek offers a perfect blend of high-altitude adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural experiences, making it an unforgettable journey in the heart of the Himalayas.

The trek from Badal Danda (3,250m) to Siding (1,700m) is a beautiful and rewarding journey through the Annapurna region of Nepal. Starting at the high-altitude village of Badal Danda, the trail descends approximately 1,550 meters over a distance of 10-12 kilometers, taking around 4-6 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung and Magar villages. As you descend, the climate becomes warmer, and the landscape shifts from alpine to subtropical, offering a diverse and immersive experience. The trail is relatively straightforward but requires sturdy footwear due to the steep and sometimes rocky terrain. Once you reach Siding, you can take a 2-hour drive to Pokhara, covering about 50-60 kilometers on mostly paved roads. The drive is scenic, passing through rolling hills and valleys, and culminates in the vibrant lakeside city of Pokhara, known for its serene Phewa Lake, stunning mountain views, and lively tourist atmosphere. In Pokhara, you can relax and explore attractions like the World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, and the bustling Lakeside area. This journey combines the natural beauty of the Himalayas with the cultural richness of rural Nepal and the charm of one of the country’s most beloved cities.

The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu typically takes around 7 to 8 hours, offering a scenic journey through Nepal’s picturesque landscapes, including lush hills, winding rivers, and charming villages. This route is a popular choice for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of the countryside while making their way to the capital. However, if you prefer a quicker and more convenient option, you can opt for a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The flight duration is approximately 25 minutes, but it comes at an additional cost of around $100, which may be worth considering if you’re short on time or prefer to avoid the long drive. Both options have their own advantages, so the choice ultimately depends on your budget, schedule, and travel preferences