Even if the climb to the Gurung – or Gurkha – village of Majgaun, beside the Machhapuchhre Mountain, doesn’t leave you breathless, the views certainly will.
There are fewer more remote spots on the planet, and it is difficult to imagine one with a more breath-taking collection of views. But reach the heights of Mala Lodge on your tailor-made holiday to Nepal and you’ll find the journey eminently worthwhile, and immensely rewarding in its own right.
After an hour’s drive from Pokhara to Lumle – stopping frequently to give your camera a thorough workout amongst the phenomenal panoramic views of the Annapurnas – you hike for around 45 minutes to Chandrakot. Here you pause to take in sweeping views of Annapurna South and the sacred and unclimbed Machhapuchhare, or Fishtail Mountain. Mala Lodge is just another 45 minutes away, on a winding trail through a picturesque forest. The views alone are worth the walk.
Mala Lodge, at a glance
- Comfortable lodge in the traditional Nepalese style
- Surrounded by tiered rice terraces and a quaint Nepalese village that specialises in keeping bees
- Choice of 18 spacious rooms
- All have twin beds and modern en suite facilities
- Décor reflects local traditions
- Large windows giving stunning views over the rice terraces and/or Machhapuchhare
- Down jackets, warm hats, gloves and crocs all provided
- Excellent regional and international cuisine served in a welcoming dining room
For leisure and pleasure
- Outstanding views of Annapurna South and Annapurna 1
- Walks and hikes through the surrounding countryside, including the forest
- Cultural visits to meet the Gurung people of the local village – better known as the famous Gurkhas
- Gain an insight into Nepal’s ancient bee-keeping techniques
- Happy hour at the lodge with local drinks served around a central fireplace
