Highlights
The Machhapuchhre Model Trek is one of Nepal's lesser-explored trails, offering trekkers an authentic adventure away from the crowds. With breathtaking views of the majestic Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail), Annapurna South, and Mardi Himal, this trek offers unparalleled vistas of the Annapurna range, alpine meadows, and traditional mountain villages. Along the way, trekkers will have the chance to experience the hospitality of local communities, interact with the friendly villagers, and immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the region.
This trek is not just about the stunning landscapes—it’s also about the challenge and sense of achievement. With its varying terrain, high-altitude sections, and remote wilderness, it’s a perfect choice for trekkers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The Mardi Himal Expedition via the Machhapuchhre Model Trek is a captivating blend of remote alpine exploration and authentic village experience nestled in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Designed for trekkers and aspiring climbers alike, this trek offers the unique opportunity to explore pristine trails, lesser-visited communities, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas, all culminating in the thrilling ascent of Mardi Himal (5,587 meters).
Unlike traditional routes, the Machhapuchhre Model Trek route leads you through a cultural corridor of Gurung and Magar villages, dense rhododendron forests, and high-altitude yak pastures. This trail not only enriches the trek with natural beauty but also offers immersive interactions with local lifestyles and traditions. The journey delivers unmatched panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal itself. Whether you're seeking serene forest paths, off-the-beaten-track solitude, or the challenge of a Himalayan climb, this expedition is the perfect fusion of nature, culture, and adventure.
- ✓ Scenic drive from Pokhara to Kande, the starting point of the trek.
- ✓ Visit Mardi Himal Base Camp, offering panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal.
- ✓ Opportunity to practice mountain yoga with certified instructors, enhancing acclimatization and mental well-being.
- ✓ Ideal for trekkers seeking a shorter yet adventurous Himalayan expedition.
- ✓ Trek through lush rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung villages.
Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu to Imu – Takru (1450m) – Purungdung (1892m)
We will begin our Mardi Himal trip with an early morning scenic drive to Pokhara. Our first stop will be at Naubise for a tea break, after which we will continue our journey toward Pokhara. A few hours into the drive, we will stop at Muglin for lunch. After lunch, we will resume the trip, enjoying the beautiful green landscapes and stunning mountain views as we enter the Pokhara region.
Once we reach Pokhara, we will switch to a different bus to get to Imu. From Imu, we will hike uphill to Prundhu village. After about an hour of climbing, we will reach our final destination for the day. The family at our accommodation will welcome us warmly. We’ll end the day with a delicious dinner. The journey is sure to be rewarding, filled with laughter and fun with the group.
Day 02: Trek to Naudhoke (2500m) – Medhaprung Kharka (2600m) to Meshrom Kharka (2960m)
We will begin our trek around 8 am after having breakfast. Starting with an uphill climb from Purungdung, we will take breaks for water and layering at various points along the way.
At Dhahi Kharka (Metle), we might visit a local shed and have some fresh milk, especially if it's summer. At Naudhoke (Nine Doors), we can explore the nearby cave. After that, we will continue our trek and stop for lunch at Medhaprung Kharka, situated at an elevation of 2600m. After refueling with a delicious meal, we will resume our trek.
Along the way, especially during the summer, we may encounter leeches, but the trail is quite beautiful and clean, especially near the villages.
Day 03: Trek to Korchon (3620m) – Shirka (3800m)
We will wake up early to enjoy the breathtaking mountain views, including Annapurna South, Himalchuli, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Mardi Himal. After breakfast, we will head towards Shirka Kharka. Following about two and a half hours of uphill trekking, we will reach Korchon, where we will stop for lunch.
After lunch, we will continue our trek toward Shirka, passing through beautiful meadows, forests, and cliff-side paths. Upon reaching Shirka Kharka, the rest of the day will be free for us to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The views are spectacular, and the peaceful atmosphere under the starry sky, with clouds forming unique shapes, creates a wonderful vibe. We will end the day by retreating to our camp after dinner.
Day 04: Shirka to Nauche Kharka (4300m)
Today, we will leave Shirka and begin a steep ascent over rocky terrain. Our first stop will be at Eklai Deurali (4200m) for a tea break. After resting, we will continue our trek, passing Shirka Pass and Bangle Deurali before arriving at Bunga, a viewpoint for Machhapuchhre, where we will pause for lunch.
After enjoying the surroundings and having lunch, we will proceed toward Nauche Kharka (4300m). The day will be full of surprises, with the first ascent being a bit challenging. We will navigate some scramble trails, which will eventually lead us to a flat ridge path, making the journey easier.
Day 05: Acclimatization Day at Nauche (Hike to High Camp – 4890m)
Today, we will stay at Nauche Kharka to allow our bodies to acclimatize to the high altitude. After breakfast, we will take a hike up to High Camp (4890m) and then return to the campsite for an overnight stay.
Day 06: Rest Day (Training and Preparation for the Summit)
Today will be a rest day, focused on training and preparation for the summit tomorrow. In the morning, we will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Since it's a rest day, we’ll have breakfast a bit later than usual. After breakfast, we will start our training session, practicing jumaring and active rappelling to prepare for the summit.
After completing the training, we will have lunch, and the rest of the day will be free to explore. We can enjoy walking around the valley, taking in the clear and breathtaking views of the nearby and distant hills, mountains, forests, and pasturelands.
In the evening, after dinner, we will have a detailed briefing session to plan for the next day’s summit. We will need to wake up around midnight, have breakfast at 12:30 am, and start the trek at 1 am. If the weather is clear, we might even get to see Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail) Mountain at night, which will be another unforgettable highlight of our trek.
Day 07: Summit Day(5585m)
We will wake up at midnight, as planned, and have breakfast at 12:45 AM. At 1 AM, we will begin our ascent toward the summit. We will walk slowly, gaining elevation as we go. The trail will become challenging, especially near High Camp, where there is no clearly defined path, and we will need to navigate rocky terrain.
We will have a packed lunch along the way. After about 10-11 hours of climbing from the Nauche Kharka campsite, we will reach the summit. For the final part of the ascent, we will need to boulder for around 2 hours before reaching the jumaring point. From there, we will gear up and start jumaring, climbing for another 2 hours until we finally reach the summit.
The view from the top will be absolutely breathtaking, as we will be at a very high altitude. After spending some time at the summit, we will begin our descent back to High Camp and eventually return to our campsite. The terrain may cause some difficulties during both the ascent and descent, but once back at camp, we will relax with a cup of tea or coffee and finish the day with a well-deserved, delicious dinner.
Day 08: Trek to Korchon
In the morning, we will have breakfast and prepare to leave Nauche. On the way, we will stop for lunch at Bunga before continuing our trek to Korchon. Once we reach Korchon, we will relax in the dining hall and enjoy some fun moments with the team.
Our kind local hosts will prepare a special dinner for us, featuring mutton. After dinner, we will have a great time singing and dancing with the host team, enjoying their traditional style of celebration. The evening will be filled with laughter and joy. After a few hours of fun, we will end the day and head to bed for some well-deserved rest.
Day 09: Trek to Imu and Drive to Pokhara (822m)
In the morning, after breakfast, we will begin our descent and walk down to Imu. On the way, we will stop at Metle for lunch, enjoying a meal made from local ingredients. After lunch, we will continue to Imu, where we will board a bus to Pokhara, bidding farewell to our kind hosts and the stunning landscapes of the Machhapuchhre Model Trek.
We will arrive in Pokhara in the evening and check into our hotel. After a delicious dinner, we will wrap up the day with a relaxing visit to Lakeside, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere at night.
Day 10: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
This will be the final day of our Mardi Himal expedition. After breakfast, we will board the bus and begin our journey back to Kathmandu, bringing an end to an unforgettable adventure.
Trip Organization
At Best Trips Nepal, we believe in creating journeys that offer not just adventure but a genuine connection to the mountains, the land, and the people who call it home. The Mardi Himal Expedition via the Machhapuchhre Model Trek is one of our most unique and enriching trekking and climbing experiences, specifically designed for those seeking solitude, authenticity, and a chance to summit a Himalayan peak with minimal technical difficulty.
This expedition isn’t just about reaching the top of Mardi Himal at 5,587 meters; it's about the route that takes you there. We follow the lesser-known Machhapuchhre Model Trek trail — a route developed to support sustainable tourism in underrepresented mountain communities. Along the way, you’ll traverse vibrant Gurung and Magar villages, where age-old traditions and warm hospitality thrive. These homestay-based interactions open a window into the region’s culture, far from the commercialized trekking hubs of Nepal.
The trail itself weaves through misty forests bursting with rhododendrons, moss-covered boulders, and hidden wildlife, gradually transitioning to alpine landscapes above the tree line. From various ridgelines and base camps, you’ll witness awe-inspiring close-up views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Mardi Himal. Every step of the way, you'll be guided by our experienced, safety-conscious team, committed to ensuring a rewarding and responsible expedition.
Whether you're a first-time climber aiming for your first Himalayan summit or a seasoned trekker looking to escape the crowds, the Mardi Himal Expedition via the Machhapuchhre Model Trek offers a perfect balance of challenge, discovery, and serenity. We invite you to join Best Trips Nepal in this unforgettable journey to one of the Himalayas’ hidden gems — where the trails are quiet, the smiles are genuine, and the mountains feel close enough to touch.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to undertake the Mardi Himal Expedition?: The ideal seasons are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November), offering clear skies and moderate temperatures.
2. Do I need prior trekking experience for this expedition?: While prior high-altitude trekking experience is beneficial, it's not mandatory. Good physical fitness and determination are essential.
3. What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?: Comfortable teahouses or guesthouses are available along the route, offering basic amenities and local meals.
4. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?: Yes, due to the high altitude, proper acclimatization is crucial. Our itinerary includes gradual ascents and rest days to mitigate the risk.
5. Are permits required for this trek?: Yes, trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
