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Machhapuchhre Model Trek

67 reviews in TripAdvisor
29 reviews in Google

The Machhapuchhre Model Trek is an exclusive off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Annapurna region, offering a pristine and crowd-free journey through unspoiled foothills with immersive camping under starlit Himalayan skies. This moderate trek winds through serene landscapes, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and vibrant rhododendron forests, culminating in breathtaking eye-level views of the sacred Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak from Chichemle Kharka (2,645 m). Ideal for nature lovers and budget travelers seeking an authentic, non-commercialized experience, it provides a rare blend of wilderness camping, cultural interaction, and stunning mountain vistas, accessible year-round, with each season offering its unique charm.

Trip Facts
Duration
12 Days
Maximum Altitude
2,645 M (8,678 ft)
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Region
Annapurna

Machhapuchhre Model Trek

  • World Heritage site visits in Kathmandu.
  • Amazing Mt. Fishtail and Annapurna ranges.
  • Beautiful Pokhara, lakes, and Annapurna Ranges reflections
  • Lifestyle, cultures, people, and food.

Trek with us into the middle-of-nowhere parts of the Annapurna region on our Machhapuchhre Model Trek. The serene trail is completely off-the-beaten-path. It is possible to go for several days without seeing another trekker. Feel the true wilderness vibes as you wander through the unspoiled foothills of the world’s tallest mountains. Sleep in a tent each night under the stars, all while being surrounded by the glory of the Himalayas.
Over the past few years, roads have been slowly creeping up the Annapurna Circuit Trek, taking away some of its allure. It is still one of the most beloved treks in the world, but it’s not the same it was 5 or 10 years ago. If you are one of many who would like to trek in the Annapurna region, but if you want a pristine trail that few know about, the Machhapuchhre Model Trek is perfect for you. The trail is brand new, and only a handful of companies offer it. Few Nepalese and foreigners alike even know it exists. It is uncommercialized and is perfect for the budget traveler.

After a lovely night in Pokhara, drive to Milanchowk and begin trekking through the backcountry. Throughout the trek, you have the option either to camp in the great outdoors or stay in a lodge and get to know the locals. It isn’t a proper Nepal trek without interacting with the local villagers. Throughout the Machhapuchhre Model Trek, hang out with the warmhearted Gurung and Magar people while stopping in their villages. The hospitality of those who live in Nepal’s hills never ceases to amaze. Learn about their daily lifestyle, including their dress, language, food, and more.
Climb higher, passing verdant forests of rhododendron (Nepal’s national flower!) and other trees, to the highest point at Chichemle Kharka. Here, you are eye to eye with one of the most iconic peaks on the planet—Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), which stands at a high 6,993 meters / 22,943 feet. In fact, the peak was ranked the 13th most beautiful mountain in the world by the Telegraph (UK) in April 2018. The precious peak is considered sacred, revered for its connection to Lord Shiva, and is one of few peaks in Nepal that has never been summited.  
With a maximum altitude of 2645 meters and an easy trail, nature lovers with any level of experience can enjoy the Machhapuchhre Model Trek. Come join us while it is still under the radar!

Best Time to Trek to Machhapuchhre Model Trek

Take the Machhapuchhre Model Trek anytime throughout the year. Be mindful of the climate of Nepal. Monsoon season (late May-early September) brings lots of rain and cloudy skies. On the bright side, you will find more solitude and few trekkers on the trail. Spring and autumn are the best times to trek here. During the spring, there is much more color on the trail, and the rhododendrons are blooming. In the autumn months, the skies are generally clearer, showing the best mountain views. Each season has its perks

Itinerary

Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2

Kathmandu City Tour.

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Altitude Loss: 2-3 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3

Kathmandu - Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 827m (2,713ft)
Altitude Loss: 6 hrs scenic drive or 25 minutes fly.
Distance: 210 Km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4

Drive from Pokhara to Milanchok and trek to Ghachwok .

Max Altitude: 1,254m (4,114ft)
Altitude Loss: 4-5 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 5

Ghachwok Trek to Dhiprang.

Max Altitude: 1,440m (4,724ft)
Altitude Loss: 5-6 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 6

Diprang Trek to Chichemle Kharka.

Max Altitude: 2,645m (8,677ft)
Altitude Loss: 5 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 7

Chichemle Kharka Trek to Lalka.

Max Altitude: 2,250m (7,381ft)
Altitude Loss: 5-6 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 8

Lakla Trek to Ribhan.

Max Altitude: 1,430m (4,691ft)
Altitude Loss: 4-5 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 9

Riban Trek to Lachwok.

Max Altitude: 1,160m (3,805ft)
Altitude Loss: 5-6 Hour Walk
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Day 10

Trek to Milanchok and Drive to Pokhara.

Max Altitude: 827m (2,713ft)
Altitude Loss: 4 Hour Walk & 1 Hour Drive
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 11

Pokhara - Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,300m (4,265ft)
Altitude Loss: 25 Min fly & 5-6 Hour Drive
Distance: 210 Km
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 12

Final Departure.

Meals: Breakfast
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Trip Map & Altitude

Machhapuchhre Model Trek
StartMid DaysEnd

Cost Details

What’s Included

  • Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) in Trekking
  • Accommodation during the trek (local lodge).
  • The government registered English-speaking local expert guides and porters.
  • Annapurna Conservation Park fees, TIMS card.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Guided tour in the city with the expert tour guide.
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in the city
  • Equipment & clothing for porters & staff.
  • Insurance for all staff & porters.
  • Transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek
  • First Aid Kit.
  • Machhapuchhre Model Trekking Map.
  • Salary, allowances, expenses & insurance for all staff including porters

What’s Excluded

  • Lunch & dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu
  • Extra baggage charges
  • Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
  • Tips for guide/porter.
  • Personal insurance and medical evacuation in case of emergency.
  • Service other than mentioned above
  • Expenses incurred due to accidents, landslides, strikes, political unrest, etc.
  • International airfare and airport taxes, excess baggage charges, hot showers, battery charges (during the trek), telephone, etc.
  • Items of personal nature expenses such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, mineral water
  • Entrance fees during sightseeing in the city.

Private Trip

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Nirajan Chaulagain
Nirajan Chaulagain
+977 9851065387

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