Mardi Himal Wellness Trek: 15 Days
Many people seek the experience of embarking on a journey to balance their mind, body, and soul while taking in the breathtaking beauty of nature. The Mardi Himal Wellness Trek offers a unique blend of physical activity, spiritual exploration, and natural wonder. This extraordinary trek takes you through breathtaking landscapes, while yoga and meditation sessions enhance your connection to both the external world and your inner self. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through a detailed day-to-day itinerary of the Mardi Himal Wellness Trek, including morning and evening yoga and meditation sessions, distances, altitudes, and durations.
The Mardi Himal Wellness Trek is a soul-stirring adventure that transcends the ordinary, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and their inner selves. As you venture along pristine trails, adorned with vibrant rhododendron forests and adorned by the lofty presence of peaks like Machapuchare and Annapurna, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where tranquility meets grandeur. This trek goes beyond the traditional, inviting you to engage with local communities and cultures, fostering genuine interactions with Gurung and Magar villagers. Their warm hospitality and insights into mountain life add a layer of authenticity to your journey, enriching your understanding of the region’s heritage.
Highlights of Mardi Himal Wellness Trek
- Breathtaking views of the Annapurna range: The Mardi Himal range is a sub-range of the Himalayas, and the trek offers stunning views of some of the most iconic peaks in the world, including Annapurna South, Annapurna II, and Machhapuchhre.
- The opportunity to practice yoga: The trek includes daily yoga sessions, led by a qualified instructor. This is a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of trekking, and to connect with your inner self.
- A unique cultural experience: The trek passes through several small villages, where you can learn about the local culture and customs. You will also have the opportunity to meet the local people and experience their hospitality.
- The beauty of the natural landscape: The trek takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Nepal, including lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and sparkling lakes.
- The sense of accomplishment: Completing the Mardi Himal Wellness Trek is a challenging but rewarding experience. You will feel a sense of accomplishment and pride when you reach the end of the trek.
The best time to go on the Mardi Himal Wellness Trek is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) seasons. These are the driest months of the year, and the weather is usually mild and sunny.
The highest point of the Mardi Himal Trek is Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,500 meters. The trek is not technically difficult, but it is important to be in good physical condition.
Mardi Himal Wellness Trek: Day-to-Day Itinerary
Each day, as you practice yoga against breathtaking backdrops, from serene alpine meadows to the snow-kissed sanctuary of High Camp, you’ll embark on a personal voyage of reflection and renewal. The yoga sessions, carefully woven into your trekking itinerary, allow you to synchronize your inner rhythm with the pulse of nature, forging a sense of equilibrium and serenity.
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
- Distance: N/A
- Altitude: Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet)
- Duration: N/A
As you step off the plane in Kathmandu, a sense of excitement and anticipation fills the air. Your adventure in Nepal begins now, and you’re greeted with a warm welcome. The bustling atmosphere of Tribhuvan International Airport immerses you in the vibrant culture of the city. Your journey through Kathmandu’s winding streets, lined with intricate temples and traditional buildings, gives you a taste of the rich history that awaits. Check into your accommodation, take a moment to settle in, and prepare for the incredible days ahead.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing
- Distance: Variable, depending on sites visited
- Altitude: Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet)
- Duration: Full day
Awake to the sounds of the city, ready to explore Kathmandu’s cultural treasures. Your day is a mosaic of experiences – from the awe-inspiring Boudhanath Stupa, where the air is thick with spirituality, to the ancient temples of Pashupatinath, where Hindu rituals unfold along the banks of the holy Bagmati River. The bustling streets of Thamel offer a sensory delight, filled with colorful shops, tantalizing scents, and the energy of locals and travelers. Amidst the sightseeing, find solace in a morning yoga session, grounding yourself for the day ahead.
Day 03: Drive to Pokhara
- Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 827 meters (2,713 feet)
- Duration: About 6-7 hours
The road to Pokhara unveils the diverse landscapes of Nepal. Leaving the urban bustle behind, you journey through picturesque valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages. The Trishuli River accompanies you on parts of your route, its lively waters a testament to the vitality of nature. Arriving in Pokhara, the city’s laid-back atmosphere instantly captivates you. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Annapurna Range, you’re reminded of the grandeur of the Himalayas. Check into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll by Phewa Lake, and relish the tranquility.
Day 04: Drive to Kande & Trek to Australian Camp
- Distance (Drive): Approximately 34 kilometers (21 miles)
- Altitude (Australian Camp): Approximately 2,050 meters (6,726 feet)
- Duration (Drive + Trek): About 1.5 hours (drive) + 2-3 hours (trek)
Today marks the beginning of your trekking adventure. A drive takes you to Kande, where your footsteps transition from roads to trails. The ascent to Australian Camp introduces you to the rhythm of trekking – the steady pace, the crunch of leaves beneath your boots, and the anticipation of reaching new heights. A yoga session refreshes your body and mind while re-connecting you with nature as you settle into Australian Camp amid towering trees and breathtaking views.
Day 05: Trek to Deurali
- Distance: Approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 feet)
- Duration: About 5-6 hours
The trail continues, leading you through forests and meadows. The distant peaks seem to beckon you forward, inspiring each step. The altitude gain is gradual, allowing your body to adapt to the changing conditions. Deurali welcomes you with crisp mountain air and vistas that stretch to the horizon. Your day’s trek ends, and as the sun dips below the peaks, you take a moment for some gentle stretches and yoga, appreciating the sense of accomplishment and the beauty that surrounds you.
Day 06: Trek to Forest Camp
- Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 2,520 meters (8,268 feet)
- Duration: About 3-5 hours
The forest envelops you as you set out on the trail. Ancient trees create a natural canopy, with dappled sunlight filtering through their leaves. The path meanders, revealing hidden clearings and glimpses of distant mountains. As you reach Forest Camp, the serenity of the surroundings invites you to unroll your yoga mat and flow through poses that embrace the natural world. The symphony of rustling leaves and distant birdcalls accompanies your practice, creating a harmonious connection between body and environment.
Day 07: Trek to Badal Danda
- Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 3,220 meters (10,564 feet)
- Duration: About 5-6 hours
The journey continues, leading you to Badal Danda. The trail’s twists and turns unveil new vistas with every step. As you ascend, the air grows crisper, and the sense of adventure deepens. Sweeping panoramas that display the grandeur of the landscape welcome you to Badal Danda. The day’s trekking challenges are met, and you find tranquility in yoga, your body finding balance as you absorb the expansive beauty around you.
Day 08: Trek to High Camp
- Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 3,590 meters (11,778 feet)
- Duration: About 4-5 hours
Each morning, the mountains greet you with an aura of mystery. Today’s trek takes you to High Camp, where the air grows thinner, and the terrain becomes more rugged. As you climb higher, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views that remind you of the scale of the natural world. High Camp is a testament to your resilience, and a yoga session at this altitude is a testament to your ability to find peace even in challenging environments.
Day 09: Trek to View Point & Back to Low Camp
- Distance: Approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) round trip
- Altitude (View Point): Approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet)
- Altitude (Low Camp): Approximately 2,970 meters (9,744 feet)
- Duration: About 6-7 hours
The day’s adventure begins early, as you set out to a View Point for a sunrise or sunset spectacle. The ethereal play of light on the mountain peaks is a sight to behold, a reminder of the beauty that resides in every corner of the world. After this awe-inspiring experience, you descend to Low Camp, where yoga serves as a bridge between the higher altitudes and the lush embrace of the forest.
Day 10: Trek to Sidding
- Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 1,700 meters (5,577 feet)
- Duration: About 5-6 hours
The trail takes you downhill, guiding you through quaint villages and terraced fields. The pace of life in these communities offers a glimpse into a simpler way of being. As you interact with locals and absorb their way of life, you find moments of reflection in your yoga practice, bridging cultures and connecting with the universal language of movement and breath.
Day 11: Trek to Lwang
- Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 1,460 meters (4,790 feet)
- Duration: About 4-5 hours
The path to Lwang is a tapestry of cultural exploration. Engage with the local community, sharing stories and laughter as you learn about their traditions. In this exchange, yoga becomes a thread that weaves together hearts and minds, transcending language barriers and fostering connections that span continents.
Day 12: Drive Back to Pokhara
- Distance: Approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 827 meters (2,713 feet)
- Duration: About 1-1.5 hours
The return to Pokhara signals the end of your trekking journey. The road winds through valleys and hills, mirroring the twists and turns of your adventure. As you re-enter the city’s embrace, the contrast between the rugged mountains and the urban comforts highlights the diversity of Nepal’s landscapes. Back in Pokhara, yoga serves as a bridge between your trekking experiences and the tranquility of the city.
Day 13: Free Day in Pokhara
- Distance: Variable, depending on activities
- Altitude: Approximately 827 meters (2,713 feet)
- Duration: N/A
The day is yours to explore Pokhara at your own pace. Whether you choose to embark on a new adventure, revisit your favorite spots, or simply bask in the serenity of the lakeside, a yoga session offers a moment of stillness, allowing you to savor the beauty that surrounds you.
Day 14: Drive Back to Kathmandu
- Distance: Approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles)
- Altitude: Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet)
- Duration: About 6-7 hours
As the road leads you back to Kathmandu, memories of your journey dance before your eyes. The landscape that once seemed unfamiliar now holds a sense of familiarity, a testament to the bond you’ve formed with the land. Returning to the capital, a yoga practice serves as a heartfelt farewell, a way to express gratitude for the experiences, challenges, and joys that have shaped your adventure.
Day 15: Departure
- Distance: N/A
- Altitude: Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet)
- Duration: N/A
The final day arrives with a range of emotions. Departing Kathmandu, you carry with you a tapestry of memories – the sights, sounds, and sensations that have etched themselves into your heart. As you bid farewell to Nepal, your yoga practice serves as a bridge between the transformative journey you’ve embarked upon and the journey that lies ahead. With a sense of peace and contentment, you step onto the plane, the echoes of Nepal’s landscapes and cultures accompanying you as you return home.
What’s Included in the Mardi Himal Wellness Trek?
- All Arrival and Departure transfers
- Annapurna trekking authorization permits
- Porters for baggage carriage (1 porter for just two tourists)
- Eight kg of luggage allowance throughout the trek.
- Spa Massage: 60 Minutes – Ayurvedic or Trekking Massage after the end of the trip in the city.
- Accommodation: Best Hotel/Guest House within the cities and Tea Houses inside the trekking: Twin Share.
- Meals: All meals (Breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) will be included, typically vegetarian.
- Wellness Activities: You will receive daily yoga, meditation, or sound healing from experienced teachers.
- Transportation: All transportation costs, transfers, and ground transportation will be included. Coaches, Jeeps, cars, and minibuses pertaining to the group size, and walking or trekking
- Guide and support: Throughout your trip, a knowledgeable guide and support staff will be with you.
What’s Not Included in the Mardi Himal Wellness Trek?
- Yoga mat: A yoga mat is essential for practicing yoga. Make sure to choose a mat that is lightweight and easy to carry. Carrying yourself is a healthy practice.
- Yoga clothes: You’ll need comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that you can move in easily.
- Flights: The cost of flights to and from the destination is generally not included in the tour package.
- Visa and passport fees: You will be responsible for obtaining a visa and passport for your trip.
- Personal expenses: This includes items such as souvenirs, laundry, and tips.
- Tipping: Tipping is often not included in the tour cost. It is customary to tip guides, instructors, and other service providers based on your satisfaction and local customs.
- Optional activities: Any optional activities that you choose to participate in, such as massages or hot air balloon rides, will be at your own expense.
- Travel Insurance: This is typically not included in the tour cost and should be obtained separately.
- Extra expenses other than those included above
Things to Know Before Mardi Himal Wellness Trek
- We practice different forms of wellness activities every day before or after trekking. This will help to loosen up your muscles and prepare you for the day or moment.
- We take breaks throughout the day for lunch. This time, you can stretch and do some yoga poses to prevent muscle strain and fatigue.
- We will practice soft yoga and meditation every day before or after trekking. This will help you relax and unwind.
- You must bring a yoga mat and some yoga props with you on your trip. This will make it easier for you to practice yoga in your lodge or outdoors.
- Be patient and listen to your body. Avoid pushing your body too hard without realizing it. Listen to your body’s signals and take the rest you need.
- Points to be noted. During the trip, if the weather conditions are bad or rainy, we will not be able to do any yoga activities.
Conclusion:
The Mardi Himal Wellness Trek transcends a typical adventure, offering a holistic experience that nurtures both the body and soul. From the enchanting forests to the awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas, each day brings new revelations and connections. The meticulously planned yoga and meditation sessions, along with the trek’s stunning landscapes, create an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth and exploration. Embark on this journey to elevate your spirit, rejuvenate your body, and discover the serenity that lies within and around you.
