The Mardi Himal Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region in Nepal. Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you’ll acclimate to the vibrant culture before flying to the picturesque city of Pokhara. Here, you’ll enjoy scenic views and prepare for the trek ahead. The adventure kicks off with a drive to Dhampus, followed by a trek through lush rhododendron forests to Forest Camp, setting the stage for the breathtaking experiences to come.
As you ascend to High Camp, the anticipation builds for the highlight of the trek: a hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp or the viewpoint. Reaching elevations of up to 4,500 meters, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range. After soaking in the majestic scenery, you’ll retrace your steps to Badal Danda before continuing your trek to Landruk, a charming Gurung village that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.
The trek concludes as you make your way to Siwai, where you’ll drive back to Pokhara for a well-deserved respite. Following a return flight to Kathmandu, you’ll have time to explore more of the city’s rich heritage before departing for your international flight. This journey not only showcases Nepal’s natural beauty but also provides a cultural immersion that will leave lasting memories.
Day 1: Kathmandu (1,138 m /4,390 ft) Arrival
Day 2: Fly Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m /2,715 ft)
Day 3: Drive to Dhampus (1,650 m /5,413 ft), trek to Forest Camp (2,600 m /8,530 ft)
Day 4: Trek from Forest Camp (2,600 m /8,530 ft) to High Camp (3,600 m /11,811 ft)
Day 5: Hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m /14,763 ft) or View Point (4,200 m /13,780 ft) and retrace to Badal Danda (3,200 m /10,499 ft)
Day 6: Badal Danda (3,200 m /10,499 ft) to Landruk (1,640 m /5,380 ft)
Day 7: Trek to Siwai (1,200 m /3,937 ft) and drive to Pokhara
Day 8: Fly Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 9: International Flight
Welcome to Kathmandu, the vibrant heart of Nepal! Upon your arrival, one of the representatives from Outward Adventure Treks and Expedition will greet you at the airport and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Take some time to settle in and relax after your journey. The bustling streets of Thamel are just around the corner, offering a perfect opportunity to explore the local shops, cafes, and cultural sites.
IF you have time, in the afternoon, consider visiting some iconic landmarks such as the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) or the historic Durbar Square. These sites provide a glimpse into Nepal’s rich history and culture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also indulge in some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
Your trekking guide will meet you at the hotel ( Samsara Boutique Hotel, Thamel). He will check your gear and equipment required for the trip and if not, will assist you to buy / hire from the shops nearby.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll head to the airport for a short and scenic flight to Pokhara. The flight is a highlight in itself, offering stunning views of the Himalayas as you soar above the rugged terrain. Keep your camera ready, as you’ll want to capture the breathtaking scenery from the air.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll check into your hotel and have the afternoon free to explore this picturesque lakeside city. Take a leisurely walk along Phewa Lake, where you can rent a boat and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere surrounded by majestic mountains. You might also want to visit the International Mountain Museum to learn about the region’s mountaineering history.
As the sun sets over the lake, enjoy dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants. This is a perfect time to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings, gearing up for the adventure that lies ahead in the Annapurna region.
Today, we’ll begin our adventure with a scenic drive to the charming village of Dhampus. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the Annapurna range. Upon reaching Dhampus, you’ll have some time to explore this beautiful village, where you can interact with the friendly locals and enjoy the stunning mountain vistas.
After soaking in the beauty, we’ll begin our trek to Forest Camp. The trail winds through lush rhododendron forests, providing a serene environment as you make your way up the hills. The sounds of nature will accompany you as you trek, making this a truly immersive experience. The hike is moderate, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude while enjoying the stunning views.
Upon reaching Forest Camp, you’ll settle into your cozy accommodation for the night. Enjoy a warm meal and share stories with your fellow trekkers. The peaceful surroundings make it a perfect time to reflect on the journey ahead and the breathtaking landscapes you’ll be experiencing.
The trail ascends gradually, allowing you to take in the breathtaking scenery as we make our way higher into the mountains. As we trek, you’ll notice the landscape changing, with more open terrain revealing magnificent views of the Annapurna range.
The flora and fauna along the trail are diverse, and you may spot various species of birds and wildflowers. The trek is invigorating, and the crisp mountain air will keep your spirits high. As we approach High Camp, the panoramic views will leave you in awe, showcasing the beauty of the Himalayas.
Upon arrival at High Camp, take some time to acclimatize and soak in the stunning surroundings. This evening, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal while sharing your excitement for the next day’s adventure. The tranquil atmosphere of the mountains will create lasting memories as you prepare for the highlight of the trek.
This is the day you’ve been eagerly anticipating! After an early breakfast, we’ll set out for either Mardi Himal Base Camp or the viewpoint. The trail is exhilarating, leading you through stunning landscapes as you ascend to elevations of up to 4,500 meters. The journey is filled with breathtaking vistas, and every step brings you closer to the majestic Annapurna range.
At the base camp or viewpoint, take time to absorb the incredible scenery, capturing memorable photographs against the backdrop of towering peaks. This is a perfect moment to reflect on your achievements and the beauty of nature that surrounds you. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning mountain scenery before we begin our descent.
After soaking in the views, we’ll retrace our steps back to Badal Danda. The descent offers a different perspective of the landscapes we’ve traversed, and the changing light creates beautiful contrasts. Upon reaching Badal Danda, you’ll settle in for the night, enjoying a warm meal and sharing stories of the day’s adventures with your fellow trekkers.
After breakfast, we’ll begin our descent from Badal Danda to Landruk, a charming Gurung village. The trail winds through terraced fields and lush forests, offering stunning views along the way. As we trek, you’ll notice the vibrant local culture reflected in the architecture and lifestyle of the villages we pass.
Upon arrival in Landruk, you’ll have the chance to explore the village and learn more about the Gurung community. Interact with the locals, observe their daily routines, and perhaps even enjoy a cup of local tea. The warm hospitality of the villagers adds to the charm of this picturesque location.
In the evening, you can relax at your accommodation, enjoying a traditional meal while reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve experienced so far. The serene atmosphere of Landruk provides a perfect backdrop for unwinding after a day of trekking.
On our final trekking day, we’ll make our way from Landruk to Siwai. The trail is relatively easy, allowing you to soak in the last moments of the trek. As we walk, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, terraced fields, and the sights and sounds of local life. This is a great opportunity to take some final photographs of the stunning scenery.
Upon reaching Siwai, we’ll take a short drive back to Pokhara. As we travel, you can reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed, filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have some free time to relax and freshen up.
Enjoy your evening at leisure by the lakeside, where you can choose from a variety of restaurants for dinner. This is a perfect time to unwind and celebrate your trekking achievements with your fellow adventurers.
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll catch a scenic flight back to Kathmandu. The short flight allows you to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains one last time. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to explore more of the city at your own pace. Consider visiting some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Boudhanath Stupa or the historic Patan Durbar Square.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the amazing experiences and friendships formed during the trek. It’s a perfect time to share stories, reflect on the unforgettable moments, and savor delicious Nepali cuisine. The warm atmosphere will create lasting memories as we toast to your incredible adventure.
On your final day, you’ll prepare for your international flight home. Take a moment to savor the memories and experiences from your trek, and perhaps do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Our team will assist you with your transfer to the airport, ensuring a smooth departure.
As you depart, we hope you carry the spirit of adventure with you and that the beauty of the Himalayas stays with you long after you leave. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on another adventure in the future!
