Exploring Mardi Himal: A 5-Day Trek Bird Watching Highlights

. The trek provides stunning views of Annapurna, Machapuchare, and Mardi Himal peaks. Suitable for those seeking a short but scenic trek combined with wildlife observation.
Day 1: Pokhara to Pothana (1,950m,5-6 Hr.)

Depart from Pokhara after breakfast. A scenic drive (1 hour) takes you to Kande, the starting point of your trek. Begin trekking through rhododendron forests and small villages. This route offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with species like the Himalayan Monal and various pheasants commonly spotted, Take a break at Australian Camp, a great spot to enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while observing local bird species.
Afternoon: Continue trekking to Pothana, a small Gurung village. The forests around Pothana are rich in birdlife, including warblers & sunbirds. Arrive at Pothana, where you will stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 2: Pothana to Forest Camp (2,550m, 5-6 Hr.)
After breakfast, start your trek towards Forest Camp. The trail passes through dense forests, offering more birdwatching opportunities.
Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for species like the Rufous-bellied Niltava, Bar-tailed Treecreeper, and various woodpeckers. Continue the trek through the forest, enjoying the serene environment & diverse avian life. Arrive at Forest Camp, where you will stay overnight. The forest surrounding the camp is ideal for evening birdwatching.

Day 3: Forest Camp to High Camp (3,580m, 5-6 Hr)
Depart from Forest Camp after breakfast, heading towards High Camp. The trail becomes steeper and the vegetation changes, offering different bird species.
Birdwatching: Look for high-altitude birds such as the Spiny Babbler and various thrushes. As you ascend, the views of the Annapurna & Fishtail mountains become more spectacular. Arrive at High Camp, where you will stay overnight. The area around High Camp is excellent for spotting birds of prey and other high-altitude species.

Day 4: High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m) and back to Low Camp (2,990m, 7-8Hr.)

Early Morning: Start early to catch the sunrise at Mardi Himal Base Camp. The trek involves a steep climb but offers breathtaking views.
Birdwatching: Along the way, observe birds like the Himalayan Griffon, Snow Partridge, and various finches.
Base Camp: Spend some time at Mardi Himal Base Camp, enjoying the panoramic views and the high-altitude bird species.
Descent: After soaking in the views and taking photos, descend back to High Camp for a quick rest and then continue down to Low Camp.
Evening: Arrive at Low Camp and stay overnight. The forest around Low Camp is a great spot for birdwatching, with chances to see species like the Black-throated Parrotbill.

Day 5: Low Camp to Siding Village and drive back to Pokhara (5-6Hr)

Morning: After breakfast, trek down to Siding Village. The trail descends through lush forests and terraced fields, providing ample birdwatching opportunities.
Birdwatching: Look for birds such as the Scarlet Minivet, Blue-throated Barbet, and various babblers.
After arrive Siding Village, a vehicle will pick you up for the drive back to Pokhara. tour end.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.