Early morning boarding on a tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Tourist buses are more comfortable than standard public transport in Nepal, making them a good choice for families with young children. As the road climbs out of the Kathmandu Valley, it winds down alongside the Rapti River, where you may see rafters tackling the lively whitewater. The journey includes scenic rest stops, with lunch at one along the way. Near Mugling, the road flattens, and you arrive in Pokhara by mid-afternoon.

After breakfast, a brief drive brings us to Kande, the trailhead for today’s hike. The path begins with a steady ascent to Australian Camp, a charming settlement offering some of the trek’s first sweeping views of the Annapurna range. Following a refreshing break, we continue for roughly two hours to Pittam Deurali. Our route passes through picturesque villages, offering a glimpse into daily life within these majestic hills. We’ll trek under the rhododendron forests, a blaze of crimson in spring, with the iconic, fishtail-shaped peak of Mt. Machhapuchhre presiding over the skyline, being a great companion on our journey.

Today's trails enters the quiet, green sanctuary of the Mardi Himal foothills. A sustained climb carries you through dense, mossy forests of rhododendron and oak. Along the way, brief openings in the canopy frame teasing glimpses of Machapuchare (Fishtail) rising in the distance. As you ascend, the path grows quieter and peaceful, embrace in a tranquil of the hiking path. After three to four hours, the forest opens up at Low Camp (2,900 m). The air feels cooler, and you get your first clear views of Annapurna South and the impressive south face of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) above the trees. Low Camp has simple, cozy lodges and is a good place to rest and adjust to the altitude before continuing into the higher alpine area.

Today we start the steady climb to High Camp, gaining about 700 meters in altitude.Your guide sets a steady pace with regular breaks as the air grows thinner. The trail moves through thinning rhododendron forest, where you may see Himalayan marmots, tahr, and birds such as the colorful Danphe. From Badal Danda (Cloud Hill), clear views open up to Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Leaving the last trees behind, the path enters open alpine terrain and leads to High Camp, a scenic spot among the peaks for rest and acclimatization.

Before sunrise, we set out on a short hike to the Upper Viewpoint, also known as Mardi Himal Base Camp. The cool morning air and gradual climb reward us with stunning views of the Annapurna Sanctuary, where Annapurna, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) rise clearly in front of us. This is the most memorable part of the trek and a perfect place to appreciate the wilderness of the Himalayas. After enjoying the scenery, we walk back to High Camp for a filling breakfast and lunch. The rest of the day is free for rest or a gentle walk around the alpine surroundings, followed by another quiet night among the mountains.

After our ascent, the trek now turns toward descent. We leave High Camp, heading steeply down past Nangge Danda to Low Camp. Here, we branch off the main trail onto a quieter path that winds through dense rhododendron forest down to the Mardi River. This route feels more remote, passing through remote settlements and terraced farmland. After crossing several rustic bridges, we arrive at the tranquil village of Siding in the lower valley, where we spend the night surrounded by countryside calm.

Continuing our descent, we depart Siding for the traditional Gurung village of Lwang. The trail passes through small hamlets like Kalimati and Keshbang, featuring a mix of gentle climbs and level paths. We pause in Ghalel, a scenic stop with local teahouses, before reaching Lwang. This historic settlement is known for its organic tea gardens and authentic homestays. In the evening, experience local culture through traditional folk songs and dances. We spend the night here, immersed in Gurung hospitality.

Today concludes our Mardi Himal journey as we return to Pokhara. The morning begins with a one-hour descent to Khora Muk, offering a final panorama of tea gardens and a last view of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal. From here, we drive approximately two hours to Pokhara, where the remainder of the day is yours to relax. We spend the night in the city, bringing our mountain adventure to a close.

Your journey now heads back to Kathmandu, either by road or by flight. As Pokhara fades behind you, take a moment to gaze at Machhapuchhre, the majestic Fishtail standing silently in the distance. Leaving the mountains is not goodbye; their calm and beauty stay with you. On the way, you can enjoy the changing landscapes, from lush valleys and terraced fields to winding rivers and charming villages. If traveling by road, there’s time to see the everyday life of local people, their farms, and markets, offering a last glimpse of rural Nepal. By flight, the aerial view of the Himalayas is unforgettable, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. Carry these memories, the stillness of the mountains, the vibrant life of the villages, and the beauty of the landscapes in your heart, letting them guide and inspire you long after the trek ends.