A Transformative Himalayan Journey.
Discover one of Nepal’s most enchanting short treks, combining the serenity of daily yoga practice with the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna Himalaya. The Mardi Himal Yoga Trek follows a secluded ridge beneath the sacred peak of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain, 6993m), offering a rare opportunity to experience pristine mountain wilderness, authentic village life, and mindful connection with nature.
Far from the busier trekking routes of the Annapurna region, this carefully crafted journey blends gentle yoga sessions, Himalayan culture, and spectacular mountain scenery. From lush rhododendron forests and tranquil alpine meadows to dramatic ridgelines and panoramic viewpoints, every day presents a new perspective of Nepal’s extraordinary mountain landscapes.
The journey is rewarded at Mardi Himal View point (4,200 m), where an unforgettable panorama unfolds before some of the highest and most beautiful peaks in the world, including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441 m), and the greater Annapurna massif.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Pokhara (822 m)
Driving Distance: 205 km
Driving Duration: 6–8 hours
Overnight: Pokhara
Begin your Himalayan adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, travelling alongside rivers, terraced hillsides, and traditional villages. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Lakeside Pokhara. In the evening, participate in a gentle yoga and stretching session overlooking the tranquil surroundings of Phewa Lake.
Highlights:
Scenic highway drive
River valleys and countryside landscapes
Beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara
Day 2: Pokhara to Kande – Trek to Pothana (1,950 m)
Driving Distance: Approx. 28 km
Driving Duration: 45-60 minutes
Trekking Duration: 3–4 hours
Trekking Distance: Approx. 5-6 km
Overnight: Pothana Village
After a short drive to Kande, the trek begins with a gradual ascent through terraced farmland and beautiful forests. The trail passes traditional Gurung settlements before reaching Pothana, a charming mountain village renowned for its magnificent views of the Annapurna range.
Highlights:
• Traditional Gurung villages and local culture
• Rhododendron and oak forests
• Panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre
Day 3: Pothana to Forest Camp (2,520 m)
Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
Trekking Distance: Approx. 10-11 km
Overnight: Forest Camp
Leaving the main Annapurna trail behind, enter the quieter Mardi Himal route. The path winds through dense rhododendron, oak, and maple forests rich with birdlife and Himalayan flora. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Forest Camp provides a peaceful setting for evening meditation and relaxation.
Highlights:
• Enter the less-crowded Mardi Himal trail
• Ancient rhododendron and peaceful oak forests
• Rich birdlife and Himalayan flora
• Tranquil wilderness experience
Day 4: Forest Camp to Badal Danda (3,210 m)
Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
Trekking Distance: Approx. 7-8 km
Overnight: Badal Danda
Gradually ascend through enchanting forest before emerging above the tree line. As the landscape opens, breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre begin to dominate the horizon. Badal Danda, meaning “Hill Above the Clouds”, offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region.
Highlights:
• Transition from forest to alpine terrain
• First expansive Himalayan panoramas
• Spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
• Stunning sunset above the clouds at Badal Danda
Day 5: Badal Danda to Mardi Himal High Camp (3,550 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Trekking Distance: Approx. 5-6 km
Overnight: High Camp
Follow a dramatic ridgeline trail towards High Camp. Throughout the day, enjoy uninterrupted views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Machhapuchhre. The scenery becomes increasingly alpine as the mountains rise majestically above the valleys below.
Highlights:
· Scenic ridge-top trekking
· Close-up views of Machhapuchhre
· Panoramic vistas of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli
· Magnificent sunrise and sunset mountain scenery
· Himalayan birds, alpine flora and fauna.
Day 6: High Camp (3,550 m) – Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m) – Return to Badal Danda (3,210 m)
Trekking Duration: Approx. 7-8 Hours
Trekking Distance: Approx. 12-14 km
Overnight: Badal Danda
Rise before dawn for the most rewarding day of the trek as you ascend along a dramatic ridgeline towards Mardi Himal Viewpoint. The trail offers breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding Himalayan amphitheater. From the viewpoint (approx. 4,200 m), enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna Sanctuary before carefully descending back through alpine and forested terrain to Badal Danda for overnight stay.
Highlights:
· Sunrise from Mardi Himal Viewpoint (4,200 m)
· Close-up Himalayan panoramas of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna range
· Scenic alpine ridgeline trekking above the clouds
· Dramatic changes from high alpine to forest landscape
· Most spectacular viewpoint of the entire trek
Day 7: Badal Danda to Siding Village (1750 m)
Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
Trekking Distance: Approx. 8-9 km
Overnight: Siding Village
Descend through forests, alpine meadows, and traditional mountain settlements to the picturesque Gurung village of Siding. This peaceful village offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Himalayan life and local culture.
Highlights:
· Scenic descent through forests and meadows
· Scenic views of traditional village landscape
· Authentic local culture and hospitality
· Peaceful rural Himalayan lifestyle
· Stay in a traditional beautiful stone house
Day 8: Siding to Pokhara
Drive Duration: 2-3 hours
Drive Distance: 40-45 km
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive back to Pokhara. The trek concludes with beautiful memories of yoga, mountain landscapes, and meaningful cultural encounters in the heart of the Annapurna region.
Highlights:
· Drive through authentic Gurung and Magar rural villages
· Pass terraced fields, river valleys, and charming stone houses along the way
· Capture the final glimpse of rural Nepal blending nature, culture, and Himalayan foothills
