Mardi Himal Yoga Trek in Nepal (5 days)

If you are looking for a trekking experience that blends movement, nature, and inner stillness, this Nepal journey offers a memorable way to explore the Himalayas. The retreat combines guided hiking with yoga, meditation, and breathwork, creating a well-rounded adventure for both seasoned trekkers and beginners. Designed for different fitness levels, it invites you to discover dramatic landscapes while deepening your sense of clarity and calm.

Mardi Himal is one of the most rewarding short treks in the Annapurna region. Known for being relatively easy, unspoiled, and shorter than many other routes, it leads toward the snow-capped peaks of Nepal’s Himalayas. The 5,590-metre Mardi Himal lies east of the Annapurna Base Camp trail and is often described as a hidden gem for its lush meadows, streams, rhododendron forests, and waterfalls.

Along the way, the trek reveals sweeping mountain views, rich cultural encounters, and peaceful forest paths. Highlights include close-up sights of Dhaulagiri Himal, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and more. Daily Hatha yoga classes add another dimension to the experience, offering grounding moments above the clouds and a deeper connection to the surrounding landscape.

Best time to trek: September, October, and November are the peak months. February, March, and April are the second-best season. May and June can be hot, though the valleys are green and blooming. July and August are monsoon months with fewer trekkers, possible hailstorms, and leeches. December and January bring clear skies, but also intense cold and possible pass closures due to heavy snowfall.

Itinerary for Mardi Himal trekking with yoga:

• Day 01: Arrival at the retreat centre in Lakeside, Pokhara. Airport or local pickup can be arranged. In the evening, join chanting, a yoga session, candlelight meditation, and dinner. Overnight at the centre.
• Day 02: Drive from Pokhara to Kaande (1780m), then trek to Deurali (2100m). Walking time: 4–5 hours, total distance 12 km. Evening yoga and overnight in a lodge.
• Day 03: Trek from Deurali to Forest Camp (2500m). Walking time: 3–4 hours, total distance 10 km. Evening yoga and overnight in a lodge.
• Day 04: Trek from Forest Camp to High Camp (3590m). Walking time: 5–6 hours, total distance 12 km. Evening yoga and overnight in a lodge.
• Day 05: Early sunrise, gentle stretching yoga, then trek to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4500m) and return to Low Camp. Walking time: 5–6 hours, total distance 16 km. Evening yoga and overnight in a lodge.
• Day 06: Trek to Sidhing village (1800m) and drive back to Pokhara. Walking time: 3–4 hours, total distance 8 km. After settling in, enjoy a deep tissue Ayurvedic massage and steam bath. Dinner and rest at the centre.
• Day 07: Departure.

Cost includes: Transportation during the retreat, a 1-hour Ayurvedic massage and steam bath, standard private accommodation, three daily nutritious meals, an English-speaking yoga instructor-guide, all yoga, meditation, and pranayama classes, government permits and entrance fees, pre- and post-retreat support, guided nature hikes, Wi-Fi, and luggage storage.

Cost does not include: Insurance, snacks and drinks, and personal expenses.

Pricing: 1 pax USD 650 per person; 2 pax USD 645 per person; 3–5 pax USD 635 per person; 6–9 pax USD 615 per person; 10 and above USD 590 per person.

Things to bring: Warm clothes, a warm hat, sun cream/lip guard, down jacket, windbreaker trousers, towel, rainwear, and trekking boots.

Responsible travel notes: Walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas, chörtens, and mani walls. In Nepal, a head wobble can mean agreement. Namaste is the preferred greeting, and shoes should be removed before entering a private home or monastery. Use your right hand when giving or receiving money, and avoid using the left hand for eating or passing food. Wash your hands and mouth before dining.

This yoga trekking course can also be combined with a Poon Hill yoga trek, and support can be arranged for travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara.