Mardi Himal Trek

Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to Hotel

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Walkers will be there to warmly welcome you with a traditional Nepali greeting. After assisting with your luggage, you'll be escorted to your pre-arranged hotel in a comfortable private vehicle. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Kathmandu’s vibrant streets and bustling atmosphere, setting the tone for your adventure. Once at the hotel, you can relax, freshen up, and take some time to adjust after your journey. Our team will provide a briefing about your trek and ensure you’re well-prepared for the exciting days ahead.

Guided City Tour of Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu, the cultural and spiritual heart of Nepal, offers a rich blend of ancient heritage and vibrant traditions. A full-day guided sightseeing tour, as a part of Mardi Himal Trek Package includes visits to four iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Swayambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Here's a detailed overview of each site:

1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Nestled atop a hill, Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is one of Nepal’s oldest and most revered Buddhist stupas. The site offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and is surrounded by a harmonious blend of Hindu and Buddhist iconography. The central white dome represents the earth, topped by a gilded spire adorned with the Buddha's all-seeing eyes. As you ascend the 365 steps to the stupa, you’ll encounter prayer wheels, small shrines, and playful monkeys that inhabit the area. The site exudes a spiritual ambiance, perfect for contemplation and photography.

2. Patan Durbar Square: Located in the city of Lalitpur, just a short drive from central Kathmandu, Patan Durbar Square is a masterpiece of Newari architecture and craftsmanship. This historic square is home to intricately carved temples, royal courtyards, and ancient statues. Key highlights include the Krishna Mandir, made entirely of stone, and the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), a Buddhist monastery with stunning gold-plated facades. Wander through the square to explore its bustling courtyards, artisanal shops, and museums, which showcase Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

3. Pashupatinath Temple: One of the holiest Hindu temples in the world, Pashupatinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on the banks of the sacred Bagmati River. The sprawling temple complex is a fascinating blend of spirituality and tradition, with priests performing daily rituals and sadhus (Hindu ascetics) meditating nearby. Non-Hindus can observe the main temple from a vantage point across the river, where you’ll also see cremation ceremonies taking place on the ghats. The site is a profound reminder of Nepal’s deeply rooted Hindu culture and beliefs about life and death.

4. Boudhanath Stupa: Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, is a spiritual hub for Buddhists and a symbol of enlightenment. The massive white dome, surrounded by colorful prayer flags and encircled by a bustling marketplace, is truly captivating. Pilgrims and visitors alike walk clockwise around the stupa (a practice known as "kora") while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The serene atmosphere, combined with the scent of incense and the sound of prayer chants, makes Boudhanath an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Drive to Kande via Pokhara (or fly to Pokhara & drive to Kande), trek to Australian Camp, 2065m

Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, is a spiritual hub for Buddhists and a symbol of enlightenment. The massive white dome, surrounded by colorful prayer flags and encircled by a bustling marketplace, is truly captivating. Pilgrims and visitors alike walk clockwise around the stupa (a practice known as "kora") while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The serene atmosphere, combined with the scent of incense and the sound of prayer chants, makes Boudhanath an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Trek from Australian Camp to Forest Camp, 4/5 hours, 2520m

Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, is a spiritual hub for Buddhists and a symbol of enlightenment. The massive white dome, surrounded by colorful prayer flags and encircled by a bustling marketplace, is truly captivating. Pilgrims and visitors alike walk clockwise around the stupa (a practice known as "kora") while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The serene atmosphere, combined with the scent of incense and the sound of prayer chants, makes Boudhanath an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Trek from Forest Camp to Low Camp, 6/7 hours, 2970m

Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, is a spiritual hub for Buddhists and a symbol of enlightenment. The massive white dome, surrounded by colorful prayer flags and encircled by a bustling marketplace, is truly captivating. Pilgrims and visitors alike walk clockwise around the stupa (a practice known as "kora") while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The serene atmosphere, combined with the scent of incense and the sound of prayer chants, makes Boudhanath an unforgettable spiritual experience.

Trek from Low Camp to High Camp, 4/5 hours, 3550m

The trek from Low Camp to High Camp is a thrilling ascent that takes approximately 4-5 hours, offering some of the most dramatic views of the Mardi Himal Trek. Leaving Low Camp, the trail climbs steadily through moss-covered trees and sparse rhododendron forests, eventually transitioning into an open ridge with expansive vistas. As you ascend higher, the landscape becomes more rugged, with sweeping views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli dominating the horizon.

The trail narrows in some sections, adding a sense of adventure while maintaining safety. The altitude begins to feel noticeable here, so a steady pace and hydration are essential. Upon reaching High Camp at approximately 3,550 meters, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and the surrounding valleys. High Camp serves as a perfect vantage point to soak in the grandeur of the Annapurna region while enjoying the hospitality of the teahouses that provide warm meals and a cozy place to rest for the night.

Hike to Mardi Base Camp (4500m.) and trek down to Low Camp, 8/9 hours

The trek from High Camp to Mardi Himal Base Camp in the early morning is the highlight of the journey, offering breathtaking sunrise views and an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Starting before dawn, the trail ascends gradually but steeply along a narrow ridge, with the cold mountain air adding to the sense of adventure. The trek to Base Camp, located at an altitude of 4,500 meters, takes about 3-4 hours. As the sun rises, the snow-capped peaks of Mardi Himal, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli are bathed in golden light, creating a magical moment that every trekker cherishes.
After soaking in the views, taking photos, and celebrating the achievement of reaching Base Camp, you’ll begin your descent back to High Camp for a well-earned breakfast. From High Camp, the journey continues downhill to Low Camp, taking about 4-5 hours. The descent offers another chance to enjoy the serene forest trails and panoramic mountain views. Upon reaching Low Camp, you can relax in the teahouses, reflecting on the day’s incredible experience and enjoying the hospitality of the region.

Trek from Low Camp to Siding and drive to Pokhara, 5/6 hours, 822m

The trek from Low Camp to Siding Village is a beautiful descent that takes approximately 5-6 hours, leading you through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional mountain settlements. The trail gradually leaves the alpine zone and transitions into subtropical vegetation, with rhododendron and oak forests giving way to vibrant farmlands. This part of the trek offers a glimpse into rural Nepali life, as you pass by charming villages, interact with locals, and observe their daily activities.
Siding Village, located at around 1,750 meters, is a quaint and peaceful settlement that offers a warm cultural experience. It’s less touristy than the main trekking route, allowing you to enjoy the authenticity and tranquility of the area. After a short rest and perhaps a light lunch in Siding, you’ll board a vehicle for the drive back to Pokhara, which takes about 2-3 hours. The drive winds through scenic mountain roads, giving you a final opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Annapurna region before arriving in the vibrant lakeside city of Pokhara. Here, you can unwind by Phewa Lake, enjoy a delicious meal, and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve completed.

Guided Pokhara City Tour

A guided city tour in Pokhara provides the perfect opportunity to explore the cultural, natural, and spiritual highlights of this picturesque lakeside city. The tour begins with a serene visit to Phewa Lake, where you can take a boat ride on its calm waters and marvel at the reflection of Machapuchare (Fishtail) on the lake’s surface. Nearby, the Tal Barahi Temple, located on a small island in the lake, offers a peaceful spiritual experience.

Next, you’ll head to the World Peace Pagoda, perched on a hill overlooking Pokhara. This Buddhist stupa provides stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Phewa Lake, and the city below, making it an ideal spot for photography and quiet reflection. The tour continues with a visit to the Devi's Fall, a fascinating waterfall that vanishes into an underground tunnel, and the adjacent Gupteshwor Cave, a sacred site with a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.

To explore Pokhara’s vibrant culture, your guide will take you to the International Mountain Museum, which showcases the history of mountaineering, the culture of Nepal’s mountain communities, and the biodiversity of the Himalayas. Finally, you’ll visit the Bindhyabasini Temple, one of Pokhara’s oldest Hindu temples, offering a peaceful atmosphere and excellent views of the surrounding area.

Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share insights into Pokhara’s rich history and significance, making it an enriching cultural experience to complement your trekking adventure. The day ends with some leisure time to explore Pokhara’s lively Lakeside area, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, where you can relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Drive or Fly back to Kathmandu, rest day

As your unforgettable Mardi Himal Trek comes to an end, you have the option to either drive or fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

For those who prefer a scenic, leisurely journey, the drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes about 6-7 hours. The route along the Prithvi Highway offers stunning views of terraced fields, lush valleys, and the cascading rivers that run through the heart of Nepal. You’ll pass through charming towns and rural landscapes, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region. The journey provides a peaceful conclusion to your adventure, with occasional stops for refreshments and scenic photo opportunities along the way.

Alternatively, if you're short on time or prefer a quicker return, the flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes just 25 minutes. The aerial view of the mountains, valleys, and rivers is a perfect way to say goodbye to the Annapurna region. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences and memories created during your trek.

Both options provide a fitting end to your journey, allowing you to either take in the final beauty of the landscape or quickly return to the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu.

Final Departure

Our representative will see you off at airport. We wish you have a wonderful flight back home.