Mardi Himal Trek

Posted on by Nepal Footprint Holiday

Mardi Himal Trek is fast popularized short trek into the natural den forest to the Base Camp of Fishtail and Mardi peak, off the beaten trail with great panoramic views of Mt. Fishtail, Mt. Annapurna and Pokhara valley with Gurung villages. It is becoming a trendy trek of Nepal.

What Makes Mardi Himal Trek Special?

Expect lovely rhododendron forests, genuine teahouses, and the maximum outstanding perspectives of the Annapurna Mountain Range. You get face to face with mountains like Mardi Himal, Machhapuchchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.

Main features of Mardi Himal Trekking are:

  • Join the trek to Mardi Base Camp – an experience you’ll never forget.
  • View varied scenery as you travel from 900m to 4,440m in different temperate zones.
  • Take a journey through the lovely rhododendron forests, genuine teahouses and walk through Annapurna Mountain Range.
  • Experience Traditional Mountain Villages and Local Culture.
  • You can find side trails to Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill.

How to Trek Mardi Himal?

The Mardi Himal Trek is a relatively less touristic hiking destination in Annapurna Region nearby Pokhara. The trek begins after a short drive from Pokhara to Kande or Phedi. The trek is short and a moderate hike goes up to 4,440m from 900m. It is just a perfect trek for a week-long adventure holiday. The trek is located East from Annapurna Base Camp and North from Pokhara.

Fixed departure trek to Mardi Himal in 2023 – 2024 Below option

The 12 days of trek goes along the Annapurna Base Camp Route via Dhampus or Australian Camp, and Pothana to Deurali. After that, follow the forest trail to Forest Camp slowly step up. The next day, keep continuing trek to Low Camp which is a fantastic day in forest. Overlooking Mardi Himal and Mountain Range with the Glory of sunshine, Evening sunset in Mt. Fishtail and Pokhara valley is memorable. Another day, you will hike up to Mardi High Camp which is our final goal and most important day during the trek. You will reach the highest point of this trek 4,440m. After that keep walking through the village Siding, Lwang and Khora Muk are popular traditional Gurung/Magar Villages where you can view 100 years of their culture and lifestyle.

Best time for Mardi Himal Trek

This trek is one of the short treks in Nepal and it goes up to 4,400m Mardi Himal Base Camp only. It means the trek can be done all the time of the year. Autumn and Spring season are the best time to trek Mardi Himal. During this period, the weather and temperature are mostly clean, clear and stable, and the forests are colorful and give a wonderful view of the Himalayas. However, it is not really recommended during the Monsoon and Winter seasons. Although, some people choose this time as well who want to avoid more crowds and love to hike lonely.

Khopra Hill Trek

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The Khopra Hill and Khopra Danda trek locally known as Khopra Ridge, an alternative short hiking route near Poon Hill in Mt. Annapurna area. With the Khopra Ridge Trek, you can go even higher and take a closer look at the pristine Himalayas of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Perhaps the Khopra Danda Trek is one of the most popular unconventional and low tourist short trekking in the Annapurna massif.

Main Features of Khopra Hill Trek are:

  • Enjoy the wonderful view of mountain Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machapucha, Annapurna
  • Walk through alpine and green meadows to reach the ridge of Khopra
  • Enjoy the beauty of the rhododendrons that bloom along the trail (during the spring season)
  • Stay in a teahouse with one of the best panoramic views in Nepal
  • Take a walk to Lake Khayer, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site

How to trek Khopra Ridge

The route follows the same path to Ghorepani, but then descends into the valley and back to the ridge (Khopra danda) north of Poon Hill. This will take about a day, unless you want to stay at a coffee shop. The Khopra ridge trek begins from different points after the Annapurna Conservation Area entry point. You can climb Khopra Ridge counterclockwise from Birethanti, Phadi and Tatopani. The Khopra Trek trail is relatively narrow and rocky. You can after join Annapurna Base Camp trekking from Chhomrong. Khopra trekking is the only trek that offers three opportunities to see the best views of the Himalayas in history.

Between Khopra Ridge and Poon Hill, there is another great viewpoint called Muldai Peak. It takes only 30 minutes uphill from Dobate to reach the summit. Don’t miss the view from the top of Muldai Peak.

Fewer people walk in this area due to the lack of tourist trekking routes. If you are lucky, you can see lots of wildlife, birds and alpine flowers of different seasons. You trek in the middle of rocky mountain trail with the maximum view of Himalayas, Deep valley and forest. When you reach Khopra danda, you will feel such a Himalayan nirvana.

This trek will visit Khayer Lake (4,600m), high meadows, temporary herder’s settlements considered sacred by Hindus, and pass through rhododendron forests and Tibetan-like villages, along the ridge itself. Which is another great way to experience high altitude and himalayas atmosphere.

It takes a day from Khopra Danda to Tatopani. Down the valley, you can pass villages and terraces, stop by for lunch, or stay overnight at one of the village’s teahouses. Tatopani has hot springs that are open to the public.

Best time for Khopra Hill Trek

Autumn and Spring season are the two best seasons to do the Khopra Trek/Khopra Ridge Trek. The Fall season is great for Khopra trekking as it is very suitable for adventure trekking in the Himalayas. During the Fall season, it is very sunny with moderate temperatures during the day. The Spring season is also known as the flower season in the Annapurna region, as the rhododendron forest blooms rhododendrons. The days are warm and sunny, so the spring season is the second best season for Khopra trekking.

Community Lodge Option

Khopra Danda has a community-based teahouse (Lodge) established and managed by the village community through Mahabir Pun. Mr. Pun is a social worker who has been providing wireless internet connection in a rural village in Nepal. When you stay at the community lodge, donations will be sent directly to the village.

The community’s yak farms, the most pristine sunrises near the Himalayas, the Khayer glacial lakes and the Himalayan hills are the highlights of this trek.

Khopra Hill Trek

Tent Peak Climbing

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Tent Peak Climbing aka Tharpu Chuli (5,663m) is one of the popular trekking peaks in the Himalayan Range of Annapurna. One of the most frequently climbed peaks of Nepal is a beautiful climbing adventure in Nepal because it is an extension of the most famous moderate trek of Nepal, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Main Feature of Tent Peak are:

  • Tent Peak Climbing (5,663m) – one of the popular royalty free peak climbing
  • Resides inside the Annapurna Sanctuary
  • Learn and experience the local Gurung settlements
  • Walk through colorful rhododendron forests and zigzag icy trails
  • Fascinating views of Annapurna South, Annapurna I, III and V, Khansar Kang, Tarke Kang

How to Climb this Peak

The adventurous journey to the summit of Tent Peak Climbing kicks off at naturally blessed town Pokhara, which is also the adventurous hotspot of Nepal. A short and scenic drive from Pokhara brings you to Phedi, from where you kick off the trek. Treading along the beautiful trails inside forests of Annapurna Conservation Area Project, we frequently emerge at culturally enriched Gurung settlements. During the pleasant hike along the colorful rhododendron woods, you will encounter the extreme attractions of nature and cultural heritage at every stop throughout the trek.

However, the major rewards of this climbing adventure in Nepal, you will receive upon reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. Now, your challenge of peak climbing in Nepal begins. Dropping down from Annapurna South Base Camp along moraine and boulder-strewed zigzag trials of ice of Annapurna Base Camp, climbers arrive at Tent Peak Base Camp at 4,200m. From the Base Camp, we gain the altitude of 700m to the High Camp at 4,900m, which lies right below the secondary peak known as Rakshi Peak. Glacial walk on the south of Rakshi peak towards Tent summit gets steepen as you climb higher.

The broad section is achieved right before the summit; the final segment of the submitting is a piece of cake. Feast your eyes with the striking views of soaring peaks including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, III and V, Khansar Kang, Tarke Kang, and perhaps the most beautiful Fishtail. After the successful summit, retrace your path back to the Base Camp and then to Pokhara.

Best Time to visit Peak Climbing

The suitable times to trek the Tent peak is during the shoulder periods between March – May (Spring) and also September – December (Fall), which are recognized as the pre-monsoon and also pre-winter months. Depending upon the altitude, it can be rather cold in the evening as well as only slightly warm throughout the day while travelling. It’s likewise much less most likely to rain during this period, as well as you’ll get to take pleasure in many continual clear days, which are excellent for travelling.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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Annapurna Base Camp trek is likely the most lovely stroll into the mind-boggling characteristic amphitheater shaped by the superbly breathtaking Himalayan pinnacles. The close-up views of soaring snow-capped peaks like Gangapurna (7,454m), Annapurna 1 (8,091m), the virgin peak Fang (7,647m) and Annapurna South (7,273m)  and the most unique peak Fishtail (6,997m) are great highlights of the Annapurna Basecamp Trekking.

The sunrise view from Poon hill is probably the most beautiful in the region. As we enter the Annapurna Sanctuary, the spectacular views of Mt. Fishtail and Huinchuli will mesmerize you. Besides, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) is the best-opted home for 100 species of mammals, 60 reptiles and amphibians, and more than 450 different species of birds.

Highlights of Annapurna Base Camp Trek are:

  • A stunning landscape and a panoramic perspective of the Annapurna Mountains
  • Learn about the Gurung and Magar way of life by visiting the nearby communities
  • Pretty villages and farmland at Ghandrunk
  • Views of the Fishtail, Himchuli, Dhaulagiri, Tiricho, Pisan, and Pungda Danda Himalayas, among others, are stunning
  • Take pleasure in the evergreen bamboo, rhododendron, and other plant trees
  • Existence of wild creatures, including tigers, deer, and musk

How to Trek Annapurna Base Camp

After a brief drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC Trek) begins. You can then begin your hike through Ulleri and Ghorepani. The following step will be a trip to Tadapani, Chhomrong, Bamboo, and Deurali. You’ll eventually get to ABC. The best mornings of your life are those you spend waking up at ABC. You can witness a stunning sunrise while being encircled by mountains in all directions.

The hike will visit JhinuDanda as a side trip on the way back. The Modi Khola River has natural hot springs that you can relax in. The walk offers lovely scenery, excellent hiking trails, and lemur colonies. Rhododendron and bamboo forests are visible in the distance. One of the top professionals will be leading you on your walk. One of Nepal’s top-rated, licensed, and experienced trek guides will be leading you on your journey.

Even moderate trekkers can use the trek package. Visitors who like to stroll across muddy fields and take in the splendor of the highlands choose this location. During the hike, one can experience the cool mountain air.

Best Time to Trek Annapurna Base Camp

The ideal times to hike to the Annapurna Base Camp are during the shoulder seasons between March – May (Spring) and September – November (Autumn), which are recognized as the pre-monsoon and pre-winter months. Depending on the elevation, it can be quite cold at night and only mildly hot during the day while trekking. It’s also less likely to rain during this season, and you’ll get to enjoy many continuous clear days, which are great for trekking.

Annapurna Base Camp Difficulty

Everyone can truly enjoy wandering through nature while on this walk because it is quite easy to complete and doesn’t demand highly developed physical fitness levels. Trekking to Annapurna Base Camp via Ghorepani will allow your body to acclimatize to the high altitude. Additionally, it aids in maintaining better physical health so you can go on strenuous aerobic walks in the open air. Visitors who have done trekking before and who are physically fit can finish the trek swiftly. We will travel 4,130 meters above sea level on this journey.

The prime highlights of this trek are the panoramas of glaciated Himalayan giants from different positions. The hospitable receptions in the villages you pass by throughout any trek in Nepal are regarded as bountiful rewards of the trekking adventures in Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

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Annapurna circuit is most popular trek within the mountain range of western Nepal. It holds the best trekking route among the backpackers and explorers. This incredibly beautiful trek entertains thousands of trekkers on every trekking season in Nepal. The lush vegetation of Annapurna Conservation Area Project, flora and fauna biodiversity and wildlife is the main attraction for the trekkers. The mesmerizing view of Marsyangdi Valley, rural lifestyle of people, monasteries and monastic culture are the authentic taste of the region. Most importantly the Himalayan panorama throughout the trek is great highlight of Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Main Features of Annapurna Circuit are:

  • One of the world’s most well-known circuit treks
  • Transverse the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters
  • Discover the customs and friendliness of the inhabitants
  • Views of the Annapurna Massif, Thorong Peak, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchre are breathtaking
  • Amazing waterfalls along with magnificent lakes, glaciers, and deep canyons
  • Exploration of Muktinath temple – both Buddhists and Hindus
  • You can bathe in Tatopani’s natural hot springs
  • A breathtaking view of the Himalayas from Poon Hill Viewpoint (3,210 m)

How to trek Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular hiking destination in the world. The trip passes through farms, canyons created by the Marsyangdi River. And forested areas before frequently emerging in villages with a diverse cultural heritage. Gains altitude while hiking, and the environment around it drastically alters. Trekkers encounter entirely different landscapes and cultures. The forest progressively transforms into low alpine tropical, and above 4,000 meters trees are not seen. A difficult adventure of this trek is the ascent from Manang to Thorong La Pass (5,416m), which is the highest summit of the Annapurna Circuit.

The walk descends to the revered Muktinath after the pass.

Places to visit in Annapurna Circuit Trek

Manang Village

Manang is a village in the corner of Annapurna circuit trek route located at 3,519 m along the Marshyangdi river bank. The village is culturally rich and it has few Buddhist temples, offer stunning view of Himalayas, glacial lakes, Yak farms and celebrate various Buddhist and Hindu festival. Manang is a gateway of Thorong La pass, Tilicho Lake, Chulu peak climb and hub of local business for Manang people and trekkers. Most of Annapurna explorers stop extra night in here to get acclimatize for high altitude and for a side/day trips around mountain side.

Thorong La Pass

Thorong-La pass 5,416 m is highest summit of Annapurna Trek and every tourists dream and local traders regularly use this pass to complete the whole circle of AC. The pass is located on a trail that connects the Manang village to the east with the Muktinath temple in the Mustang district to the west. However, a night spend in Thorong Phedi is recommended before attempting to hike Thorong-La pass. Due to bad weather some time Thorong La pass trek is a risk of avalanches, frostbite, and storm.

Muktinath Temple

Great Vishnu Temple in Muktinath is revered by both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Probably most visit for attraction in Annapurna circuit route. Located in Mustang District at an altitude of 3,810 m.  The most suitable time to visit Muktinath is from March to May and September to November as the weather conditions are not safe in other months. It is one of the best view point to see the upper and lower section of Mustang and Mt.Dhaulagiri range.

Hot Spring – Tatopani

The natural hot spring is located at the bank of Kaligandaki River in Tatopani village. It is one of the most popular stop in the route of Annapurna circuit trek. Hot spring is popular for bathing and relaxing. Tatopani is also famous for organic orange and fresh juice and rural tourism.

Poon Hill – Sunrise View

Poon Hill is 3,210 m height hill station overlooking Annapurna Range and Dhaulagiri Massif in route of around Annapurna trekking. It is Nepal’s top and best short trek destination. Wanderers simply join 3 to 5 days trek from Pokhara. The hill provides an opportunity to witness the scenic mountain sunrise views over Mt. Annapurna and Mt.Dhaulagiri . Trekkers hike along stone stairs through the rhododendron forest for 1 hour to reach poon hill to enjoy the beautiful sunrise views. The area is quite crowded with the trekkers taking photographs during the peak season. And witnessing the views from the view tower, and taking coffee in the coffee shop. To go Poon Hill Hike tourist need to pay 50 Rupees as entrance fee.

Best time for Annapurna Circuit

September-December and February-May are the best times for Annapurna Circuit trekking. However, Nepal Footprint Holiday hosts this trek all year round. We guarantee all the logistic and check up on your safety, necessary equipment guides, weather information, hiking tips and suggest a total of detours by Annapurna Circuit Trek experts.

Permits for Annapurna Circuit Trekking

TIMS

Trekkers Information Management System, is a need for any trekker who intends to travel in Nepal. This permit is accepted by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) to ensure the safety and security of any trekker wishing to trek in Nepal.

ACAP

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ANCAP) referred to as an entry permit, is required for any hiker who wishes to access the Annapurna Conservation Area.