Mardi Himal Trek Wellness Tour

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Later, you will attend a trek briefing to meet the rest of the group and receive critical information about the trek. This session will help you get acquainted with your trek leader, clarify queries, and ensure everyone is prepared. After the briefing, you’ll have free time to explore Kathmandu. Starting the trek with a comprehensive briefing and introducing you to fellow trekkers creates a supportive group dynamic for an enjoyable experience.

In the morning, you will embark on a tour of some significant sites in Kathmandu. Your first stop will be Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple. This ancient Buddhist temple sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley.

Next, you will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical complex showcases stunning architecture, intricately designed temples, and ancient palaces. You can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship.

From there, you will head to Ason Market, a bustling marketplace known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse local goods. You can explore the narrow alleyways, interact with local vendors, and witness the liveliness of daily Nepali life.
After this enriching experience, you will proceed to Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, for lunch. Thamel offers various restaurants and cuisines, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Following your meal, you can hire or purchase the necessary trekking gear for your upcoming adventure. Thamel is renowned for its numerous trekking gear stores offering a wide range of equipment. You can consult the knowledgeable staff to ensure you have all the necessary items for your trek. They can assist you in selecting appropriate clothing, footwear, backpacks, sleeping bags, and other essential gear based on the specific requirements of your tour.

By exploring the cultural landmarks of Kathmandu, enjoying a delicious lunch, and taking care of your trekking gear needs, you will be well-prepared and ready to embark on your trekking journey.

After having breakfast, we will proceed to the domestic airport in Kathmandu for our flight to Pokhara. This short flight offers picturesque views of the mountains and landscapes, adding excitement to your journey.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will transfer to a vehicle and drive to the trek starting point in Dhampus. The drive from Pokhara to Dhampus is scenic, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the transition from the city to the countryside.

From Dhampus, we will begin our trek with an uphill hike to Pitam Deurali. As we ascend, we will pass through a lovely thick forest, immersing ourselves in the area’s natural beauty. Along the way, we will also have the opportunity to visit Pothana village, witnessing the unique local lifestyle and culture.

The hike to Pitam Deurali from Pothana will take approximately one hour, and it will be an uphill climb. Although challenging, the stunning scenery and adventure will make the trek worthwhile. As we reach Pitam Deurali, we can take a moment to rest and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

By starting our trek from Dhampus and hiking through the dense forest, we will not only enjoy nature’s beauty but also gradually acclimate ourselves to higher altitudes, preparing us for the upcoming trek days.

The trek continues with an uphill hike through a lush forest, following a trail traditionally used by shepherds to bring their livestock (such as sheep, goats, buffaloes, and cows) to higher grazing pastures. This historical trail adds a touch of cultural significance to our journey as we walk in the footsteps of the local shepherds of the past.

As we ascend, we will pass by a couple of small “shops” along the way, where you can find snacks and tea. These pit stops provide an excellent opportunity to take a short break, rejuvenate, and refuel before continuing our trek.

While walking through the forest, you will be treated to the soothing sounds of birds chirping, enhancing the serenity of the surroundings and adding a touch of tranquillity to your hike. Immerse yourself in nature’s symphony as you make your way uphill.

Upon reaching Kokar or Forest Camp, we will have a late lunch. This will be a well-deserved opportunity to sit back, relax, and savour a delicious meal amidst the natural beauty surrounding us. Enjoy the peaceful ambience and the sense of accomplishment as you refuel and recharge for the rest of the trek.
By hiking through the forest, appreciating the cultural significance of the trail, and indulging in a late lunch at Kokar or Forest Camp, we ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable trekking experience.

After considering the importance of acclimatisation and the advantages of being in a peaceful environment, we have decided to shorten our day’s hike and stay at Badal Danda. This allows us to gradually adjust to the higher altitude and enjoy the scenic panorama this location offers.

At Badal Danda, you can have a relaxing breakfast, savouring the morning and preparing for the day’s trek ahead. Since the hike on this day is relatively shorter, taking approximately four hours, there is no rush, and you can start leisurely.

The trail leading from Badal Danda is an uphill climb through a beautiful rhododendron forest, adding a touch of natural allure to our journey. After about three hours of hiking, we will reach a clearing within the forest called Low Camp. Here, we will pause for lunch and soak in the breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare, provided the weather is clear. These views remind us of the stunning natural wonders that await us on this trek.

Continuing from Low Camp, it will take us approximately an hour to reach Badal Danda, also known as Cloud Hill. As the name suggests, clouds usually rise from the lower valleys in the afternoon, creating a mystical atmosphere. Situated on a ridge, Badal Danda offers impressive panoramic views of the surrounding valleys on both sides. You can take a moment to absorb the awe-inspiring scenery and capture some memorable photographs.

By staying at Badal Danda for the day, we prioritise acclimatisation, enjoy a relaxed breakfast, appreciate the beauty of the rhododendron forest, relish the views from Low Camp, and revel in the impressive vistas of the valleys from the ridge of Badal Danda.

After a refreshing stay at Badal Danda, we embark on another short morning of trekking towards High Camp. The initial part of the trek involves a climb of approximately one hour along a ridge. As we ascend, we are treated to panoramic views that showcase the region’s natural beauty.

The trail from Badal Danda to High Camp takes us through a rhododendron forest, where the path alternates between ascents and descents. These variations in elevation add an element of excitement to the hike. Throughout the journey, we are rewarded with intermittent openings in the forest, which offer picturesque glimpses of the surrounding landscape.

As we make our way, our eyes are captivated by the majestic presence of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare standing tall before us. These towering peaks provide a stunning backdrop to our trek and remind us of the grandeur of the Himalayas.

On the left side of the trail, we can observe the Annapurna base camp trail, winding its way far below us. This vantage point allows us to appreciate the immense scale of the terrain and the vastness of the valley beneath.

While trekking towards High Camp, we are immersed in the serene beauty of the rhododendron forest, accompanied by the awe-inspiring views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. The Annapurna base camp trail below further adds to the sense of adventure and exploration.

We will experience mainly ascending and descending terrains on our journey to the Upper Viewpoint. We gradually ascend towards our destination by passing through pastures and walking along narrow trails. The trek to the Upper Viewpoint presents an opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Once we reach the Upper Viewpoint, we are rewarded with a genuinely awe-inspiring Himalayan vista. The panoramic scenery includes prominent peaks such as Mardi Himal (5587 meters), Annapurna I (8091 meters), Annapurna South (7219 meters), Hiunchuli (6441 meters), Barahi Shikhar (7647 meters), Tent Peak (5695 meters), Dome Peak (6501 meters), Machapuchare, and several other majestic mountains. The sight of these towering peaks against the backdrop of the clear blue sky is nothing short of breathtaking.

After marvelling at the Himalayan vista, we retrace our steps to Badal Danda. By returning to Badal Danda, we can enjoy a quieter environment away from the crowds often encountered at High Camp. Furthermore, Badal Danda offers excellent panoramic views, allowing us to relish the beauty of the valleys and mountains surrounding us.

Returning to Badal Danda, we can reflect on the incredible sights and experiences we encountered on our trek to the Upper Viewpoint. The combination of ascending and descending trails, the lush pastures, and the narrow paths all contribute to a memorable and rewarding adventure in the Annapurna region.

On this particular day, we have a significant descent ahead of us, descending approximately 1400-1600 meters. We begin by retracing our steps back to Low Camp and then choose the left fork that leads us towards Sidhing Village. As we go down, we find ourselves immersed in a lush, dense forest composed of Rhododendron, Oak, and Alder trees.

The trail winds through this vibrant forest, offering a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere as we descend. The canopy of trees provides shade, and the surroundings become a haven for various bird species and other wildlife. The beauty of nature surrounds us, creating a serene ambience throughout our hike.
Gradually, we make our way through the forest, and the landscape changes as we near Sidhing village. The thick foliage gives way to terraced fields, showcasing the agricultural practices of the local communities. These terraced fields are an impressive sight, demonstrating the resourcefulness and skill of the local farmers.

Finally, we arrive at Sidhing village and settle into the guesthouse. After a day filled with a seemingly endless descent, we can look forward to a well-deserved break. The guesthouse provides a comfortable and welcoming environment to rest and rejuvenate. A hot shower awaits, offering a refreshing experience and the chance to relax our weary muscles.

The combination of the lush forest, picturesque terraced fields, and the prospect of a hot shower at the guesthouse makes this day’s descent a satisfying and memorable part of our trek in the Annapurna region.

Leaving Sidhing village behind, our journey continues along a path that follows the hill’s contours above the river. Gradually, we traverse between lush pastures, passing through Tamang and Gurung villages along the way. These villages provide a glimpse into the rich cultural diversity of the region.

As we make our way down the hillside, we arrive at Ghalel village, where we will pause for a well-deserved lunch. Ghalel village offers a charming setting to rest and refuel, surrounded by the landscape’s natural beauty.

After enjoying our meal, we continue our trek towards Lwang, our final destination for the day. Along the way, we can immerse ourselves in community-based tourism by staying in homestays. This unique experience allows us to engage with the local community, learn about their traditions, and gain insights into their way of life. Staying in homestays fosters a sense of authenticity, giving us a deeper connection to the culture and traditions of the region.

Lwang, our chosen stop for the day, is a picturesque village with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled amidst the mountains, Lwang offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, allowing us to appreciate the natural splendour of the area truly.

By participating in community-based tourism and opting for homestays, we contribute directly to the local economy and support sustainable practices. This helps preserve the community’s cultural heritage and natural resources while enabling us to have an immersive and meaningful travel experience.

After our memorable trekking experience, we conclude our adventure by taking a private jeep back to Pokhara. The jeep ride provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, allowing us to relax and enjoy the scenic journey back to the city.

Upon reaching Pokhara, we are greeted with a well-deserved free day to unwind and rejuvenate. There are various ways to make the most of this day and take advantage of the natural beauty surrounding us.

One option for relaxation is simply enjoying the tranquillity of Pokhara and its stunning surroundings. The city is renowned for its picturesque setting, nestled alongside the peaceful Phewa Lake and surrounded by the majestic Annapurna mountain range. This free day provides an opportunity to soak in the serene ambience, explore the city’s charming streets, and indulge in leisurely activities like strolling along the lakeshore or savouring a cup of local tea at a lakeside cafe.

Alternatively, a boat ride on Phewa Lake is an excellent choice for those seeking adventure. The calm waters of Phewa Lake offer a perfect setting for a leisurely boat ride. As we glide across the lake, we can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains mirrored in the water. It’s a chance to appreciate the natural beauty up close and create lasting memories.

Whether we choose to relax and enjoy the beauty of Pokhara or embark on a boat ride, this free day allows us to unwind and reflect on the incredible journey we’ve had thus far. It’s an opportunity to recharge before continuing our exploration or bidding farewell to this enchanting region.

During our free day in Pokhara, we have a range of exciting activities, providing options for relaxation, leisure, and even thrilling adventures.

If we want to unwind and enjoy a laid-back day, we can find a cosy spot and chill out. Pokhara offers numerous lakeside cafes where we can relax, sip a cup of local tea or coffee, and soak in the serene atmosphere. We can also explore Pokhara’s charming streets, browse the local shops, and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, a boat ride on Phewa Lake is a fantastic option. Hiring a traditional wooden boat, we can navigate the calm waters while relishing the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains reflecting on the lake’s surface. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature and fully appreciate the beauty of Pokhara.

Another exhilarating activity that awaits us is paragliding. Pokhara is renowned as one of the world’s best paragliding destinations, and the company owned by National Geographic’s Adventurers of the Year 2012 offers a thrilling and safe paragliding experience. Soaring through the sky, we can witness the breathtaking aerial views of Pokhara’s landscapes, including the lake, mountains, and lush valleys. It’s an adventure that promises an extraordinary perspective of this picturesque region.

Whether we choose to relax, shop, take a boat ride, or embark on a thrilling paragliding experience, Pokhara offers a range of activities to suit different preferences. It’s an opportunity to make the most of our free day and create memorable moments before concluding our time in this remarkable city.

You will be brought to the airport three hours before your flight time.

A Responsible promise

Despite the exceptional circumstances in which we find ourselves at the moment, we don’t want you to give up your holiday – and we want you to be able to book your trip without any worries.

To provide additional security for your booking, we have introduced a new rebooking and cancellation policy so that you can easily rebook or cancel your trip free of charge if the worst comes to the worst.

Free Cancellation With the Responsible Promise 100% Money-Back Guarantee

For new bookings made between May 10th 2021, and December 31st 2022, you may cancel your complete package (activities, hotels, tours, excl. flight) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure and get 100% of your money back. However, to stay flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.

Total flexibility on your booking

Stay flexible with our new rebooking service until shortly before your departure. For new bookings made between May 10th and December 31st, 2021, you may rebook your package (activities, hotels, tours) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure (subject to availability). Rebooking is only allowed once, and you must inform us 30 days before your planned departure. Any additional costs incurred due to changes in your schedule or upgrades, such as additional fees in high season or upgrades to your accommodation, will still apply. To remain flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.

Trek FAQ

Am I too young or old?

Most of our clients have completed their treks from 3 years old to some in their 70s with almost no exercise or training.

Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?

We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel names.

Do I need a Visa?

A visa for Nepal can be acquired on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and at border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki on the Nepal-India border, and Kerung on the Nepal-China border.

A visa can also be obtained outside of Nepal at the nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.

For more information, visit the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.

What should I bring on a Trek?

Being adequately equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip, please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.

Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.

If you have more questions, please check this article to reference equipment to pack or contact us.

Is this trip safe for solo/female/LGBT+/minority/POC travellers?
You are safe if you respect the culture, do not show affection in public, and dress decently (this won’t pose too much of a problem as you will be covered up in layers to stay warm).

Here are some helpful articles:
Am I too old to go trekking?
Arriving at Kathmandu airport.
Should I bring cash or ATM cards?
What to pack for a trek?
Do I need to train for a walk?
What is a typical day on a tour like?
What is the food like on the tour?
The Benefits of Using Trekking Poles.
What do I need to know about high altitudes?
High altitude myths.
How to trek safely?
For more articles, you can go to our blogs.