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Mardi Base Camp

Mardi Himal Base Camp is a hidden gem nestled in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Standing at about 4,500 meters, this trek offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking tranquility and untouched Himalayan landscapes. The trail begins from Pokhara, moving through rhododendron forests and alpine ridges with incredible views of Machapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South.

With cozy teahouses and a peaceful route, it’s a favorite among beginner to intermediate trekkers. The route is less commercialized and offers a genuine mountain escape.

🗺️ Itinerary:

• Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Kande, trek to Forest Camp
• Day 2: Forest Camp to Low Camp
• Day 3: Low Camp to High Camp
• Day 4: Trek to Mardi Base Camp and return to High Camp
• Day 5: Descend to Siding and drive back to Pokhara

💸 Estimated Cost:

• NPR: 7,000 – 10,000 per person
• USD: $60 – $ 90 (excluding guide/porter fees)

🎒 Things to Carry:

• Warm clothes (layering for cold nights)
• Rain jacket/windproof jacket
• Hiking boots and extra socks
• Water bottle & water purification tablets
• Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Basic medicine kit & personal toiletries
• Power bank & snacks

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Gosaikunda

Gosaikunda is a sacred alpine lake located in Langtang National Park at an altitude of 4,380 meters. Revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike, this glacial lake is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Thousands of pilgrims visit during Janai Purnima. The trail begins from Dhunche or Syabrubesi and passes through dense forests, Tamang villages, and rugged terrain.

The views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu make this a trekker’s paradise.

🗺️ Itinerary:

• Day 1: Drive to Dhunche
• Day 2: Dhunche to Chandanbari (Sing Gompa)
• Day 3: Chandanbari to Gosaikunda
• Day 4: Explore Gosaikunda, descend to Dhunche
• Day 5: Drive back to Kathmandu

💸 Estimated Cost:

• NPR: 7,000 – 10,000
• USD: $75 – $115

🎒 Things to Carry:

• Warm jacket and gloves
• Sleeping bag
• Waterproof shoes
• Snacks and dry food
• Thermal bottles, water purifiers
• Energy drinks/tablets
• Prayer flags or offerings if attending Janai Purnima

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Mustang

Mustang, also known as the "Forbidden Kingdom," lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas and offers dramatic desert-like landscapes, ancient caves, and Tibetan culture. Upper Mustang was restricted to tourists until the 1990s and still retains an aura of mystery. The trek often starts from Jomsom and leads toward Lo Manthang.

It’s a culturally rich and spiritually powerful destination that feels like stepping back in time.

🗺️ Itinerary:

• Day 1: Fly to Jomsom, trek to Kagbeni
• Day 2: Kagbeni to Chele
• Day 3: Chele to Syanbochen
• Day 4: Syanbochen to Lo Manthang
• Day 5: Explore Lo Manthang, return via Ghami

💸 Estimated Cost:

• NPR: 40,000 – 60,000
• USD: $300 – $450 (including restricted permits)

🎒 Things to Carry:

• Restricted area permit and ID copy
• Sunscreen and lip balm (dry zone)
• Good trekking boots
• Scarves/mask (dusty winds)
• Camera for ancient caves and monasteries

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Kapuche Glacier Lake

Kapuche is the lowest altitude glacier lake in Nepal (2,546m), located in the Annapurna region. It’s surrounded by massive cliffs and melting icefalls. The trail starts from Sikles and is a perfect 2-3 day getaway for adventure lovers looking for raw, untouched beauty.

Its turquoise-blue waters are truly mesmerizing and the route is still relatively less crowded.

🗺️ Itinerary:

• Day 1: Drive to Sikles and trek to Hugu Goth
• Day 2: Hugu Goth to Kapuche Lake and back
• Day 3: Trek to Sikles, return to Pokhara

💸 Estimated Cost:

• NPR: 6,000 – 9,000
• USD: $45 – $70

🎒 Things to Carry:

• Camera and tripod
• Raincoat (can be slippery)
• Energy bars and water bottles
• Hiking shoes with grip
• Thermal innerwear and windproof jacket

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Ghandruk

Ghandruk is one of the most picturesque Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. Located at 2,012 meters, it's famous for its cultural heritage, traditional houses, and close-up views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.

The short trek from Nayapul makes it ideal for beginners and families. You’ll also find a local museum, homestays, and traditional dance performances here.

🗺️ Itinerary:

• Day 1: Drive to Nayapul, trek to Ghandruk
• Day 2: Explore village, enjoy local food, stay overnight
• Day 3: Trek back or extend to Landruk/Tolka

💸 Estimated Cost:

• NPR: 4,000 – 7,000
• USD: $30 – $55

🎒 Things to Carry:

• Camera for village and mountain shots
• Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes
• Snacks, water bottles
• Cash (no ATMs)
• Warm clothes (cool evenings)

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My Journey to Shey Phoksundo: Day-by-Day Adventure

Day 1: The Long Ride to Dolpa

My adventure began at Machhapokhari, Kathmandu, where I boarded a bus called Battalion Yatayat. Although I reached the station by 10:45 AM, the bus departed only at 2:30 PM. The journey was long and rugged—almost 32 hours on the road through winding highways and mountain cliffs.

At around 8:00 PM the next day, I finally arrived in Dolpa. I checked into Mayur Hotel to rest and recharge. The bus fare was Rs. 4,500 per person.

Day 2: Suligad to Rechii via Chepka

The trek officially began at the army checkpoint in Suligad, where I collected my entry ticket. I started walking toward Chepka, stopping there for a simple lunch of roti. Afterward, I trekked for about 4 hours from Chepka to Rechii. Along the way, I passed only two tea houses—it was quiet, peaceful, and raw nature all around.

I stayed the night at Hotel Paunaghar in Rechii. I got a room with an attached bathroom for Rs. 1200, and dinner was dal bhat with egg for Rs. 500.

Day 3: Rechii to Rigmo Village

This morning, I continued my trek and had lunch at Jharana Hotel, about 1.5 hours from Rechii. The trail was scenic and peaceful. After lunch, I walked another 3 hours to reach Rigmo Village, where I’m staying tonight.

Rigmo is quiet and beautiful, nestled close to the iconic turquoise lake. I’ll be continuing the journey tomorrow and the day after, so stay tuned for the rest of my Shey Phoksundo adventure!