This was my first trip to Nepal and overall the Mardi Himal trek was an incredible experience for our Indian all-girls group. The October weather impacted somewhat negatively on the trek planning, however, our team effort never lacked enthusiasm and encouragement.
The trek itself was very rewarding, with marvellous views of the Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. All the campsites were in beautiful locations. Their owners were hospitable, warm and welcoming. We interacted with the locals and time flew by quite enjoyably during the evenings in their company.
Kumar bhai is a great trek guide, with a cool head and years of experience. He is extremely polite and soft spoken. The cherry on top was all his stories from the mountains and his home country, which meant there was never a dull moment on the trek and always learning something new about Nepal. He guided us with his well thought suggestions and advices.
Mausam who helped us carry our belongings throughout, is ever smiling. The last day of the descent was a tough call, as our group leader decided to shorten the duration, but both Kumar bhai and Mausam guided us with a smiling face all along giving a helping hand to the ones among us who needed assistance due to excessive strain and exhaustion. Thanks for your genuine support, especially Kumar bhai we couldn't have done it without your smile and words of encouragement.
The organisation took care of everything from travel arrangements to all the bookings and checklists. Sincere thanks to your well organised efforts, everything, from permits to required docs, was ready at hand. The Pokhara hotel they provided Hotel Noble Inn on the 14th Street near Phewa lake was up to the mark and neat and clean.
One thing I would like to suggest is that they should pay more heed to and guide their customers more properly towards the safety precautions for COVID-19, as throughout the trek, the local enthusiasts as well as foreign trekkers were in abundance. I know, precautions must be taken individually and it is everyone's own responsibility, still as locals, it is expected from their part to point out the facts and explain the current situation prevailing for the visitor's guidance.