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A 13-day guided trek from Kathmandu through Pokhara to Mardi Himal Base Camp, this route climbs through rhododendron forests, alpine scree and traditional Gurung villages to deliver close-up views of Machhapuchchhre and the Annapurna range. Expect tea-house lodging and steady altitude gain to 4,500 m.
A 13-day guided trek from Kathmandu through Pokhara to Mardi Himal Base Camp, this route climbs through rhododendron forests, alpine scree and traditional Gurung villages to deliver close-up views of Machhapuchchhre and the Annapurna range. Expect tea-house lodging and steady altitude gain to 4,500 m.
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Operated by Couch Adventure Nepal (CAN) · Pokhara, Gandaki Province
You step out of Pokhara’s fog into a road that tightens toward the hills and, within hours, you trade city hum for a forest that seems to pull you uphill. Pine-scented air and terraces march past villages as the ridge opens to Machhapuchchhre — the jagged “Fish Tail” — looming like a guardian over the route.
challenging.
13 days.
Requires a high level of cardiovascular fitness, ability to hike 5–8 hours daily with loaded daypack and tolerate basic tea-house conditions.
Yes — you need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card; your operator typically arranges these.
The itinerary reaches Mardi Himal Base Camp at about 4,500 meters, with High Camp around 3,980 meters.
It's challenging: expect consecutive days of 5–8 hours walking, steep sections and significant altitude gain, so prior endurance training helps.
Spring and fall offer the most stable weather and clear views; summer brings monsoon rain, and winter has snow at higher camps.
The route runs within the Annapurna Conservation Area, an early example of community-based conservation where traditional Gurung and Magar villages shaped local stewardship.
Travelers should minimize waste, use local tea houses and guides that follow ACAP rules, and avoid single-use plastics to reduce pressure on fragile mountain ecosystems.
Couch Adventure Nepal (CAN) operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
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