Mardi Himal Trek: A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region

Activity: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to the hotel and receive a briefing on the upcoming trek.

Landscape & Culture: Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is a cultural hub with ancient temples, bustling markets, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath, and Durbar Square

Flight Duration: 25 minutes (Kathmandu to Pokhara)

Drive Duration: 1 hours (Pokhara to Kande)

Trek Duration: 3 hours (Kande to Deurali)

Landscape & Culture:

• • The flight to Pokhara offers stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
  • The drive to Kande takes you through lush valleys and terraced fields.
  • The trek begins with a gradual ascent through rhododendron forests, leading to Deurali, a ridge with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare (Fishtail) peaks.
  • Deurali is a small settlement with basic tea houses, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by mountains.

Trek Duration: 7-6 hours

Elevation Gain: 870m

Landscape & Culture:

• • The trail gradually ascends through dense rhododendron and oak forests, often covered in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere.
  • As you gain altitude, the vegetation changes, with moss-covered trees giving way to open alpine meadows.
  • Low Camp provides spectacular views of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and the Annapurna range.
  • Experience the hospitality of local tea houses, where simple yet hearty meals are served.

Morning Hike Duration: 1-2  hours (Low Camp to Badal Danda)

Breakfast at Badal Danda: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range, including Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, and Annapurna South.

Return to Low Camp: 1-hour descent

Lunch at Low Camp

Descent to Siding: 3 hours

Landscape & Culture:

• • Badal Danda (literally “Cloud Ridge”) offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks rising above a sea of clouds.
  • The descent to Siding takes you through dense forests and terraced farmlands, where you may encounter local Gurung villagers going about their daily lives.
  • Siding is a traditional Gurung village, known for its warm hospitality and cultural traditions, including folk dances and local craftsmanship.

Trek Duration: 2 hours (Siding to Simle)

Drive Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour (Simle to Pokhara)

Landscape & Culture:

• • A short and scenic trek through terraced fields and traditional villages leads to Simle.
  • The drive to Pokhara passes through picturesque countryside, offering glimpses of the Seti River and surrounding hills.
  • Afternoon at leisure in Pokhara, with an opportunity to explore Phewa Lake.

Flight Duration: 25 minutes (Pokhara to Kathmandu)

Activity: Participate in a service-learning project, such as engaging with students at Moonlight School, supporting local education initiatives, or contributing to community projects.

The recommended Service Learning at Moonlight School – Cultural and Educational Exchange program:

International students engage in a hands-on service project at Moonlight School, working with Nepali students (aged 4-10). This initiative fosters cross-cultural exchange, enhances education, and makes a positive impact on the local community.

Project Highlights:

1. Classroom Engagement
   Small groups (6-7 students) rotate through classrooms, teaching core subjects and introducing creative ones (e.g., Computer, Music, Art).
2. Structured Sessions
   Each session lasts 35 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break, allowing students to explore diverse subjects.
3. Creative Activities
   Activities like role-playing, problem-solving, and storytelling promote critical thinking and collaboration.
4. Cultural Exchange
   Shared meals and playground activities foster mutual understanding and friendship. Letter exchanges before and after the trip help build lasting connections.

Benefits for Participants:

• International Students: Develop teaching skills, gain cultural awareness, and build leadership.
• Moonlight School Students: Experience enriched learning, broaden their perspectives, and build social skills.

This project creates a transformative experience, enriching both international and local students’ educational journeys and encouraging global citizenship.
Moonlight School students are proficient in English, and our teachers will assist to ensure smooth communication.

If you have specific plans or preferences for the service project, please let us know—we are happy to tailor the experience to meet your objectives.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Kathmandu with last-minute shopping or sightseeing – Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport.

The Moonlight Nepal Trekking and Adventure team will take you to the airport for your flight home. Alternatively, if your flight is scheduled for the evening, you have the option to either spend more time with the Moonlight School or explore the city through sightseeing and shopping during the day. We will arrange for your airport drop-off three hours before your departure time.