Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

Mardi Himal Trek

Moderate
10 Days 9 Nights
  • Destination:
    Nepal
  • Region:
    Annapurna
  • Type:
    Trek
  • Max. Altitude:
    4500m
  • Activity:
    Lodge Trek
  • Group size:
    2 - 8 people
  • Accomodation:
    Hotel, Lodge
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  • Mardi Himal Trek, in the Annapurna region is a short trek that takes you up to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Considered more of a off the beaten tracks trek that was officially opened to tourist in 2012 the beautiful rhododendron forest and the rocky mountain terrain, this richly diverse trek is situated at the east of Annapurna Base Camp. With very few tourist visiting this area, Mardi Himal can be a considered a true “off the beaten tracks”.

    Trip Highlights

    • Travel through the rhododendron forests in this diverse genre.
    • Spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
    • Visit Mardi Himal Base Camp in about 4 hours from the high camp.
    • Enjoy the changing landscape in this amazing trek if you like less travelled area.

    What is included

    • 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu as per program on Bed & Breakfast basis
    • 1-night Hotel in Pokhara as per program on Bed & Breakfast basis
    • Sightseeing in Kathmandu
    • Local Lodge as per program on Full Board
    • Private transportation to Syabrubesi and back to Kathmandu
    • FLIGHT: KTM-Pokhara-KTM
    • National Park Fees & TIMS Permit Fee
    • 1 English Speaking Guide (from Kathmandu)
    • 1 porter for every 2 members
    • All staffs insurance & daily wages
    • All Airport transfers

    What is not included

     
    • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
    • Personal Equipment & Insurance
    • Personal Expenses (Battery recharge on local lodge, laundry, telephone, etc)
    • Nepal Visa fee US $40 per person
    • Emergency Evacuation if required
    • Other personal Expenses
    • Tips for Staffs
  • Detailed Itinerary

    • Day 1

      Arrival in Kathmandu.

      Depending on your arrival time, our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel.
    • Day 2

      Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)

      Meals: B
      After breakfast and depending on your booked flight timing, you will be transferred to the domestic terminal for the scenic flight to Pokhara. The flight takes about 20 minutes providing spectacular views of Langtang, Manasalu and Annapurna ranges. Once in Pokhara, you will be transferred to the hotel and your evening can be spent enjoying the boat ride in the Phewa Lake.
      Meals: B
    • Day 3

      Pokhara - Pritam Deurali (2232m) – 4 hrs trek

      Meals: BLD
      After breakfast, our crew along with private vehicle will meet you at the hotel. From here you will drive to Phedi which is about 1-hour drive to start the trek from where you start your trek till Pritam Deurali through the rhododendron forest which overlooks the Modi Khola.
      Meals: BLD
    • Day 4

      Trek to Forest camp (2600m) - low camp - high camp (3850m) – 6 hrs trek

      Meals: BLD
      Enjoying the view of the Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri at the height of 8,200 meters above sea level we start our walk after breakfast. Listening to the enchants of wild animals and birds, feeling the smell of national flower Rhododendron and other floras in the forest we trek back.
      Meals: BLD
    • Day 5

      High camp to Mardi Himal viewpoint (4500m) – 7 hrs trek

      Meals: BLD
      An early start today as we begin our hike towards Mardi Himal (at an altitude of 4500m) Base Camp via Upper View Point (4200m). As the trip gets difficult through the steep climb and longer walk, the breath-taking scenes keep us occupied as we reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp in 2 hours with views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Gangapurna and Annapurna III. We return back to High Camp after enjoying the views.
      Meals: BLD
    • Day 6

      Trek to Siding (1860m) – 6 hrs trek

      Meals: BLD
      As we head back towards Pokhara through Siding, we pass through Ghalegaun which itself is another very less traveled region. A Gurung village that is situated at the height of 2095m, it offers a firsthand experience of the Gurung people and their culture with an amazing view of Annapurna range, Ganesh Himal, Lamjung, and Manasalu. We continue our trek to Siding.
      Meals: BLD
    • Day 7

      Trek to Hyangja and drive to Pokhara – 4 hrs trek

      Meals: BLD
      Our last day today on the trek, we continue our trek through the forest. As we continue we will start seeing the houses, plow fields and motorways. After few hours, we reach to Hyangja (1070m) via Mardi bridge, a beautiful village full of seasonable fruits and vegetables. We continue and cross a suspension bridge and a little further our vehicle will be waiting for us that will take us to Pokhara.
      Meals: BLD
    • Day 8

      Fly back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel.

      Meals: B
      After breakfast, we are transferred to the domestic airport in Pokhara and we take a scenic 20 minutes fly back to Kathmandu. Our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to the hotel.
      Meals: B
    • Day 9

      City tour of Kathmandu

      Meals: BD
      After breakfast, our guide will pick you up for a full day's excursion. During the trip, you will visit three sites listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.
      Pashupatinath: one of the most sacred temples of South Asia dedicated to Lord Shiva.
      Boudhanath Stupa: one of the principal Buddhism sanctuaries surrounded by numerous monasteries and Tibetan boutiques. Finally, Bhaktapur: this city is known for its sophisticated art, craft, colorful festivals and its unique culture. Later in the evening, you will be transferred to Le Sherpa Restaurant for a dinner.
      Meals: BD
    • Day 10

      International departure

      Your checkout time at the hotel is 11 AM and 3 hours prior to your departure time you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back.
  • Visa

    Most nationalities require a visa for Nepal, which can be obtained in advance or on entry. If you wish to apply before departure the current visa cost is £20 for a 15 day visa and £35 for a 30 day visa for UK passport holders. The current cost of a visa on arrival is US $25 for 15 days, US $40 for 30 days or if extending your stay $100 for 90 days. All are multiple entry. The visa on arrival fee can be paid for in cash in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros. You will also need a passport photo. Application forms are available in the immigration hall (or for electronic passports there are visa registration machines which, after inserting your passport, automatically fill out a form for you). You must firstly join the queue to pay the visa fee, and then go to the relevant immigration desk to obtain your 15, 30 or 90 day visa stamp. There can be long queues for visas on arrival.

    Non UK nationals should check requirements with their nearest embassy (a few nationalities are not permitted visas on arrival).

    Vaccinations

    There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is present in certain regions only (such as Chitwan); you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Most of our trips to Nepal go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please refer to the TRIP NOTES for complete advice on AMS.

    Eating & Drinking

    Breakfast is included throughout the trip and all meals are provided while camping (all breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners).

    Breakfast is included throughout the trip and all meals are provided while camping. On trek the breakfast will be a set menu usually consisting of porridge and toast. Any additional items that are not included in the set menu should be ordered and paid for separately. We do not include lunch and dinner in the tea-houses, allowing you to choose what you want to eat and when. Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dal bhat to pizza and apple pie.

    Although meat is available in the tea houses, we advise against eating it on trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges, and can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend using hand sanitiser.

    If you buy imported food and drink whilst on trek you will spend more than the suggested amount.

    Drinking Water

    Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 litres per person per day.

    We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking areas.

    All tea houses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with a wide opening (Nalgene or similar) with you and use a SteriPEN to treat it with. A SteriPEN is a handheld UV water purifier – small, lightweight and battery powered so easy to pack for a trek. In Nepal’s trekking regions most of the bottled water isn’t strictly ‘mineral water’ anyway but is UV treated, so it’s exactly the same technology. It’s quick to use, far more effective than purification tablets, and the water is ready immediately. It’s fine to use a SteriPEN on non-boiled water so long as it isn’t cloudy or full of sediment (which is uncommon in these regions).

    SteriPENs are widely stocked on Amazon, outdoor shops and other online retailers; look for the latest models but avoid USB charging ones. Better still, a SteriPEN will pay for itself over the course of the trek and you won’t leave behind a single plastic bottle – you will end up spending the same or even less than you would on bottled water, plus you can keep it for future trips.

    If you prefer not to invest in a SteriPEN, the tea houses also sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.

    While camping boiled water is supplied for drinking.

    Weather

    The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go.

    Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.

    Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. At the highest altitudes although the days can be nice and sunny the temperatures can drop to 10ºC and much lower. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as minus 10ºC and lower at the highest altitudes.

    Pre-monsoon/spring: March to May. Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.

    Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes. Summit day will be a very early start (usually about 2am) and will be extremely cold. Although mostly it is calm and clear on summit day the mountain does occasionally get high winds. You need to be equipped for temperatures as low as minus 25ºC plus wind chill on summit day.

    Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.

    More Info

    This is a Tough+ trek. It is activity level 9 with 16 days walking and full porterage throughout. The maximum altitude is 6,189m (or 5,545m without Island Peak) and the average is 3,680m. There are some steep ascents and descents and some narrow trails. As this trek also ascends to very high altitudes participants should be confident of their physical fitness and must have previous experience of trekking at altitude and in snow.

    Although it is not compulsory to participate in the climb (the summit attempt is optional), anyone who does must have previous ice axe and crampon experience and know how to use a jumar and abseil device. There will be equipment checks and practice sessions for rope use, ice axe, crampon and harness use, abseiling and crevasse rescue. For safety reasons it is compulsory to participate in these sessions. If you do not take part the leader and climbing Sherpas will not allow you to take part in the climb.

    Though technically harder than Mera Peak, for those with the necessary experience this expedition is within the reach of those seeking their first Himalayan summit. The climb requires strong lungs and a great deal of will power - it is graded alpine PD+ and starts with some rocky scrambling to a glacier. We cross the glacier roped up (there is one ladder to cross), and then come to a 200m steep 40-45 degree headwall, which leads to a 20m summit ridge. We will rope up to cross the glacier and you will be walking with an ice axe, crampons and plastic boots. There are fixed ropes up the headwall (approximately 200m) and along the summit ridge. On the ascent you will need to use a jumar and on the descent you will need to use an abseil device.

    Please be aware that altitude can have a significant affect on your physical state. It is important that you take heed of the leader's advice and decisions at all times. The leaders are trained in first aid and are well aware of AMS symptoms and will keep a close eye on the group. We ask you to refer to the altitude warning within the Trip Notes.

    The climb itself is not recommended for anyone with a fear of heights or vertigo and the main trail itself crosses three modern suspension bridges over rivers and valleys - all of these have mesh sides but some are quite long and high.

    Equipment Checklist

    Body Wear

    • Gore Tex Jacket
    • Gore Tex Pant
    • Hiking pant
    • Fleece trouser and jacket or warm jumper - Recommended not thick but warm enough that fits inside the Gore Tex pant
    • Anti-sweat T-shirtEarmuffs/Ear warmers (optional)
    • Thermal inner trouser
    • Down jacket with hoodie
    • Thermal inner trouser
    • Down jacket with hoodie

    Head Wear

    • Sun Hat/Normal cap
    • Fleece or woolen hat
    • Earmuffs/Ear warmers (optional)
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Buff Scarf / thin face mask

    Hand wear

    • Fleece or woolen thin gloves
    • Expedition shell gloves
    • Gore Tex mitten gloves

    Other Equipments

    • Sleeping bag (comfort rated - 15ºC)
    • 30 Litre Rucksack with cover
    • Large size Duffel Bag with padlock
    • Headlamp with spare batteries
    • Water bottles 1 Litre X 2
    • Thermos
    • Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhea treatment (Imodium), altitude (Diamox), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are also a good idea.

    Washing kit & Toiletries

    • Waterproof washing kit bag
    • Towel - medium size
    • Washing soap, towel, tooth pest, tooth brush etc.
    • Sun Lotion Enough +30SPF (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
    • Hand wash & sanitizer
    • Toilet paper (you can buy this in the lodges)
    • Wet tissue

    Foot Wear

    • Trekking boots
    • Hollow Out Outdoor Slipper
    • Trekking socks (4-5 pair)
    • Snow Gaiter

    Optional Items

    • Trekking poles
    • Trainers or similar for use in the lodges
    • Shorts
    • Base layer leggings
    • Gaiter
    • Sleeping bag liner
    • Pillowcase
    • Ear plugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring)
    • Travel clothes
    • Camera
    • Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
    • Repair kit – (egg. needle, thread, duct tape)
  • Accommodation

    This tour spends three nights in a hotel in Kathmandu, two nights in Hotel in Pokhara and five nights on the trek in lodges (tea houses).

    In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we normally use a 3-star hotel, located within walking distance of the Thamel.

    On the trek, we will stay in teahouses for the most part. Some days there may be no tea house at lunchtimes – on these days we carry a packed lunch. The tea houses are basic but adequate; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains.

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  • Overview

    Mardi Himal Trek, in the Annapurna region is a short trek that takes you up to the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Considered more of a off the beaten tracks trek that was officially opened to tourist in 2012 the beautiful rhododendron forest and the rocky mountain terrain, this richly diverse trek is situated at the east of Annapurna Base Camp. With very few tourist visiting this area, Mardi Himal can be a considered a true “off the beaten tracks”.

    Trip Highlights

    • Travel through the rhododendron forests in this diverse genre.
    • Spectacular views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
    • Visit Mardi Himal Base Camp in about 4 hours from the high camp.
    • Enjoy the changing landscape in this amazing trek if you like less travelled area.

    What is included

    • 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu as per program on Bed & Breakfast basis
    • 1-night Hotel in Pokhara as per program on Bed & Breakfast basis
    • Sightseeing in Kathmandu
    • Local Lodge as per program on Full Board
    • Private transportation to Syabrubesi and back to Kathmandu
    • FLIGHT: KTM-Pokhara-KTM
    • National Park Fees & TIMS Permit Fee
    • 1 English Speaking Guide (from Kathmandu)
    • 1 porter for every 2 members
    • All staffs insurance & daily wages
    • All Airport transfers

    What is not included

     
    • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
    • Personal Equipment & Insurance
    • Personal Expenses (Battery recharge on local lodge, laundry, telephone, etc)
    • Nepal Visa fee US $40 per person
    • Emergency Evacuation if required
    • Other personal Expenses
    • Tips for Staffs
  • Detailed Itinerary

    Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu.

    Depending on your arrival time, our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel.

    Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)

    After breakfast and depending on your booked flight timing, you will be transferred to the domestic terminal for the scenic flight to Pokhara. The flight takes about 20 minutes providing spectacular views of Langtang, Manasalu and Annapurna ranges. Once in Pokhara, you will be transferred to the hotel and your evening can be spent enjoying the boat ride in the Phewa Lake.
    Meals: B

    Day 3 : Pokhara - Pritam Deurali (2232m) – 4 hrs trek

    After breakfast, our crew along with private vehicle will meet you at the hotel. From here you will drive to Phedi which is about 1-hour drive to start the trek from where you start your trek till Pritam Deurali through the rhododendron forest which overlooks the Modi Khola.
    Meals: BLD

    Day 4 : Trek to Forest camp (2600m) - low camp - high camp (3850m) – 6 hrs trek

    Enjoying the view of the Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri at the height of 8,200 meters above sea level we start our walk after breakfast. Listening to the enchants of wild animals and birds, feeling the smell of national flower Rhododendron and other floras in the forest we trek back.
    Meals: BLD

    Day 5 : High camp to Mardi Himal viewpoint (4500m) – 7 hrs trek

    An early start today as we begin our hike towards Mardi Himal (at an altitude of 4500m) Base Camp via Upper View Point (4200m). As the trip gets difficult through the steep climb and longer walk, the breath-taking scenes keep us occupied as we reach the Mardi Himal Base Camp in 2 hours with views of Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna I, Gangapurna and Annapurna III. We return back to High Camp after enjoying the views.
    Meals: BLD

    Day 6 : Trek to Siding (1860m) – 6 hrs trek

    As we head back towards Pokhara through Siding, we pass through Ghalegaun which itself is another very less traveled region. A Gurung village that is situated at the height of 2095m, it offers a firsthand experience of the Gurung people and their culture with an amazing view of Annapurna range, Ganesh Himal, Lamjung, and Manasalu. We continue our trek to Siding.
    Meals: BLD

    Day 7 : Trek to Hyangja and drive to Pokhara – 4 hrs trek

    Our last day today on the trek, we continue our trek through the forest. As we continue we will start seeing the houses, plow fields and motorways. After few hours, we reach to Hyangja (1070m) via Mardi bridge, a beautiful village full of seasonable fruits and vegetables. We continue and cross a suspension bridge and a little further our vehicle will be waiting for us that will take us to Pokhara.
    Meals: BLD

    Day 8 : Fly back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel.

    After breakfast, we are transferred to the domestic airport in Pokhara and we take a scenic 20 minutes fly back to Kathmandu. Our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer you to the hotel.
    Meals: B

    Day 9 : City tour of Kathmandu

    After breakfast, our guide will pick you up for a full day's excursion. During the trip, you will visit three sites listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.
    Pashupatinath: one of the most sacred temples of South Asia dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    Boudhanath Stupa: one of the principal Buddhism sanctuaries surrounded by numerous monasteries and Tibetan boutiques. Finally, Bhaktapur: this city is known for its sophisticated art, craft, colorful festivals and its unique culture. Later in the evening, you will be transferred to Le Sherpa Restaurant for a dinner.
    Meals: BD

    Day 10 : International departure

    Your checkout time at the hotel is 11 AM and 3 hours prior to your departure time you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back.
  • Essential Info

    Visa

    Most nationalities require a visa for Nepal, which can be obtained in advance or on entry. If you wish to apply before departure the current visa cost is £20 for a 15 day visa and £35 for a 30 day visa for UK passport holders. The current cost of a visa on arrival is US $25 for 15 days, US $40 for 30 days or if extending your stay $100 for 90 days. All are multiple entry. The visa on arrival fee can be paid for in cash in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros. You will also need a passport photo. Application forms are available in the immigration hall (or for electronic passports there are visa registration machines which, after inserting your passport, automatically fill out a form for you). You must firstly join the queue to pay the visa fee, and then go to the relevant immigration desk to obtain your 15, 30 or 90 day visa stamp. There can be long queues for visas on arrival.

    Non UK nationals should check requirements with their nearest embassy (a few nationalities are not permitted visas on arrival).

    Vaccinations

    There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. The risk of malaria is present in certain regions only (such as Chitwan); you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Most of our trips to Nepal go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please refer to the TRIP NOTES for complete advice on AMS.

    Eating & Drinking

    Breakfast is included throughout the trip and all meals are provided while camping (all breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners).

    Breakfast is included throughout the trip and all meals are provided while camping. On trek the breakfast will be a set menu usually consisting of porridge and toast. Any additional items that are not included in the set menu should be ordered and paid for separately. We do not include lunch and dinner in the tea-houses, allowing you to choose what you want to eat and when. Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dal bhat to pizza and apple pie.

    Although meat is available in the tea houses, we advise against eating it on trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges, and can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend using hand sanitiser.

    If you buy imported food and drink whilst on trek you will spend more than the suggested amount.

    Drinking Water

    Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 litres per person per day.

    We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking areas.

    All tea houses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with a wide opening (Nalgene or similar) with you and use a SteriPEN to treat it with. A SteriPEN is a handheld UV water purifier – small, lightweight and battery powered so easy to pack for a trek. In Nepal’s trekking regions most of the bottled water isn’t strictly ‘mineral water’ anyway but is UV treated, so it’s exactly the same technology. It’s quick to use, far more effective than purification tablets, and the water is ready immediately. It’s fine to use a SteriPEN on non-boiled water so long as it isn’t cloudy or full of sediment (which is uncommon in these regions).

    SteriPENs are widely stocked on Amazon, outdoor shops and other online retailers; look for the latest models but avoid USB charging ones. Better still, a SteriPEN will pay for itself over the course of the trek and you won’t leave behind a single plastic bottle – you will end up spending the same or even less than you would on bottled water, plus you can keep it for future trips.

    If you prefer not to invest in a SteriPEN, the tea houses also sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.

    While camping boiled water is supplied for drinking.

    Weather

    The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go.

    Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.

    Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. At the highest altitudes although the days can be nice and sunny the temperatures can drop to 10ºC and much lower. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as minus 10ºC and lower at the highest altitudes.

    Pre-monsoon/spring: March to May. Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring.

    Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes. Summit day will be a very early start (usually about 2am) and will be extremely cold. Although mostly it is calm and clear on summit day the mountain does occasionally get high winds. You need to be equipped for temperatures as low as minus 25ºC plus wind chill on summit day.

    Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.

    More Info

    This is a Tough+ trek. It is activity level 9 with 16 days walking and full porterage throughout. The maximum altitude is 6,189m (or 5,545m without Island Peak) and the average is 3,680m. There are some steep ascents and descents and some narrow trails. As this trek also ascends to very high altitudes participants should be confident of their physical fitness and must have previous experience of trekking at altitude and in snow.

    Although it is not compulsory to participate in the climb (the summit attempt is optional), anyone who does must have previous ice axe and crampon experience and know how to use a jumar and abseil device. There will be equipment checks and practice sessions for rope use, ice axe, crampon and harness use, abseiling and crevasse rescue. For safety reasons it is compulsory to participate in these sessions. If you do not take part the leader and climbing Sherpas will not allow you to take part in the climb.

    Though technically harder than Mera Peak, for those with the necessary experience this expedition is within the reach of those seeking their first Himalayan summit. The climb requires strong lungs and a great deal of will power - it is graded alpine PD+ and starts with some rocky scrambling to a glacier. We cross the glacier roped up (there is one ladder to cross), and then come to a 200m steep 40-45 degree headwall, which leads to a 20m summit ridge. We will rope up to cross the glacier and you will be walking with an ice axe, crampons and plastic boots. There are fixed ropes up the headwall (approximately 200m) and along the summit ridge. On the ascent you will need to use a jumar and on the descent you will need to use an abseil device.

    Please be aware that altitude can have a significant affect on your physical state. It is important that you take heed of the leader's advice and decisions at all times. The leaders are trained in first aid and are well aware of AMS symptoms and will keep a close eye on the group. We ask you to refer to the altitude warning within the Trip Notes.

    The climb itself is not recommended for anyone with a fear of heights or vertigo and the main trail itself crosses three modern suspension bridges over rivers and valleys - all of these have mesh sides but some are quite long and high.

    Is this Trip for you?

    Equipment Checklist

    Body Wear

    • Gore Tex Jacket
    • Gore Tex Pant
    • Hiking pant
    • Fleece trouser and jacket or warm jumper - Recommended not thick but warm enough that fits inside the Gore Tex pant
    • Anti-sweat T-shirtEarmuffs/Ear warmers (optional)
    • Thermal inner trouser
    • Down jacket with hoodie
    • Thermal inner trouser
    • Down jacket with hoodie

    Head Wear

    • Sun Hat/Normal cap
    • Fleece or woolen hat
    • Earmuffs/Ear warmers (optional)
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Buff Scarf / thin face mask

    Hand wear

    • Fleece or woolen thin gloves
    • Expedition shell gloves
    • Gore Tex mitten gloves

    Other Equipments

    • Sleeping bag (comfort rated - 15ºC)
    • 30 Litre Rucksack with cover
    • Large size Duffel Bag with padlock
    • Headlamp with spare batteries
    • Water bottles 1 Litre X 2
    • Thermos
    • Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhea treatment (Imodium), altitude (Diamox), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite). Glucose tablets and multi-vitamin tablets are also a good idea.

    Washing kit & Toiletries

    • Waterproof washing kit bag
    • Towel - medium size
    • Washing soap, towel, tooth pest, tooth brush etc.
    • Sun Lotion Enough +30SPF (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
    • Hand wash & sanitizer
    • Toilet paper (you can buy this in the lodges)
    • Wet tissue

    Foot Wear

    • Trekking boots
    • Hollow Out Outdoor Slipper
    • Trekking socks (4-5 pair)
    • Snow Gaiter

    Optional Items

    • Trekking poles
    • Trainers or similar for use in the lodges
    • Shorts
    • Base layer leggings
    • Gaiter
    • Sleeping bag liner
    • Pillowcase
    • Ear plugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring)
    • Travel clothes
    • Camera
    • Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage)
    • Repair kit – (egg. needle, thread, duct tape)
  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    This tour spends three nights in a hotel in Kathmandu, two nights in Hotel in Pokhara and five nights on the trek in lodges (tea houses).

    In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we normally use a 3-star hotel, located within walking distance of the Thamel.

    On the trek, we will stay in teahouses for the most part. Some days there may be no tea house at lunchtimes – on these days we carry a packed lunch. The tea houses are basic but adequate; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains.


  • Gallery

Difficulty Level
Moderate

Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

Round Annapurna Trek
19
Days

Round Annapurna Trek

Nepal - Lodge Trek - Annapurna

Moderate
3/6
Ghorepani Trek
9
Days

Ghorepani Trek

Nepal - Lodge Trek - Annapurna

Easy to Moderate
2/6
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