MARDI HIMAL Trip Explained

Taking a cue from these words by the Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh, we have organized a journey to explore and practice mindfulness. As per his advice, we will be walking the pristine and the tranquil trails in the Himalayas through the Annapurna Region  in Nepal.

The Mardi Himal Trek, nestled in the picturesque Annapurna region of Nepal, offers an ideal opportunity for a silent meditation retreat. This moderately challenging hike is well-suited for physically fit individuals seeking a serene journey with Monastics from PlumVillage, where mindfulness can be cultivated amidst the breathtaking natural beauty.

Commencing in Pokhara, the trek leads you away from the bustling crowds, inviting you to embrace scenic vistas and experience Nepalese hospitality. The trek starts with a 90-minute drive from Pokhara to Kande,  and serva as the launchpad for this meditative adventure.

On the first day, as you walk the trail, you'll stop for lunch at the serene Australian Camp, gradually making your way to Pitam Deurali (while savoring the natural and cultural wonders of the neighboring villages). Over the subsequent days, you'll traverse a scenic route with the Annapurna Range and Machhapuchchhre Himalayas as your constant companions. Rest Camp and High Camp provide tranquil overnight stays and support your acclimatization to the higher altitudes.

On the sixth day, trekkers ascend to the Mardi Himal Lower Base Camp (Upper View Point) at an elevation of 4,280 meters/14,042 feet, offering a mesmerizing panorama of the Himalayan peaks. Afterward, a return to High Camp and a short walk to Badal Danda allow for a peaceful night's rest. 

On the final day, the descent takes you through the enchanting rhododendron forest, leading to the idyllic Siding village, where there will be transportation waiting for you to bring you back to Pokhara.

April is the perfect time for this expedition, as you'll traverse magical flowering rhododendron forests. While no prior trekking experience is necessary, preparation and good physical fitness level is imporatnt to enjoy this journey. 

The Mardi Himal Retreat is the perfect blend of Plum Village Mindfulness and Meditation practices along with Trekking experience in the Himalayas. 

This is made possible as the practice, meditation and walks are led by the Plum Village Monastics while all the logistics of travel, transportation, lodging and meals are managed by the professionals of Rustik Travels. 

Throughout the journey you will experience a casual, light hearted environment focused on enjoying the present moment, practice meditations while simultaneously challenging yourself with moderately hard hiking in the Himalayas. Both the leaders from Plum Village and guides from Rustik will provide necessary support to make this a special and memorable experience that is safe, adventurous and deeply meaningful.

Most of the details below focus on the trek and transitions aspect of the retreat. The main part of the meditations begin once we arrive in Pokhra and begin the trek. The PV monastics will guide you through the practices, the intentions with which you walk and the routines that we will follow everyday. This will include - morning meditations, all meals in silence for the first 10 minutes, walking together as a group in silence and dharma sharing in the evenings.

ITINERARY DETAILS:

DAY 1: 20-APR-24, SAT: ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU - WELCOME AND SETTLING IN Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by the organizers from Rustik Travels. Look out for the Rustik Travel placard at Tribhuvan International Airport. If you arrive late at night, private transportation to the hotel will be arranged for your comfort.

After settling in, you will receive notifications regarding group meetings and briefing for the journey ahead. During this gathering, we will discuss our travel plans, services, and introduce you to the trek guide. There will be some paperwork, including a legally binding travel form and a non-liability disclaimer form. If you have any tour payments due, you can settle them during this meeting. Accommodation for the night will be either Kathmandu Guest House or an equivalent lodge in Thamel (we love the tranquility of both these places).

DAY 2: 21-APR-24, SUN: KATHMANDU - GUIDED HALF DAY SIGHTSEEING (PASHUPATINATH AND BOUDDHANATH) 

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a morning meditation session and a briefing on the day's activities.

The rest of the day is at your leisure, giving you time to prepare for the upcoming trek and explore the vibrant streets of Thamel. Around 2 pm, we will embark on a half-day sightseeing tour to immerse ourselves in the spiritual and cultural richness of Kathmandu. Our destinations include the renowned Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu site, and the majestic Boudhanath Stupa, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage spot.

Pashupatinath Temple, situated along the Bagmati River, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's not only a place of worship but also a site for Hindu cremations, offering a profound cultural experience.

Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world, boasts impressive architecture and spiritual significance. It's a hub for Tibetan Buddhism and a place for meditation and cultural exploration.

(Optional: Consider a breathtaking mountain flight to catch a glimpse of Mount Everest and the Himalayas before our sightseeing tour.)

DAY 3: 22-APR-24, MON: FLY TO POKHARA AND BEGIN TREK TO PITAM DEURALI 

After an early morning breakfast and checkout, we head to the domestic airport for a 30-minute flight to Pokhara, where we will be welcomed by Hotel Middle Path. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before we continue our journey to Kande in a private vehicle.

Upon reaching Kande, you'll meet your porter who will assist with your luggage. The trek begins through serene rhododendron and pine forests. Lunch will be provided along the way or at your destination, the scenic Australian Camp.

Our trek covers a distance of about 5.6 km and takes approximately 5 hours, with an ascent of 510 m and a descent of 120 m. In Pitam Deurali (2,100 m), you will have free time for personal activities. Accommodation for the night will be at New Laligurans Guest House or a lodge of equivalent standard.

DAY 4: 23-APR-24, TUE: TREK FROM PITAM DEURALI TO REST CAMP VIA FOREST CAMP

 Start your day with breakfast at the lodge before embarking on today's trek. We'll journey through Forest Camp to Rest Camp, passing through a forested area with rhododendron and pine trees. The trail involves ups and downs, and lunch will be served either along the way or at Rest Camp.

The distance covered today is about 9.3 km, taking 6-7 hours, with an ascent of 610 m and a descent of 150 m. In Rest Camp (2,600 m), you'll have free time for personal activities. Accommodation will be at Hotel Rest Camp or an equivalent lodge.

DAY 5: 24-APR-24, WED: TREK FROM REST CAMP TO HIGH CAMP VIA BADAL DANDA

 After breakfast, we begin our trek to High Camp. We ascend alongside a ridge towards Mardi Himal and Machhapuchchhre. The trail transitions from dense forests to shrub-covered terrain, offering glimpses of the unique Daphne pheasant if we're fortunate.

High Camp (3,580 m) is the final destination of our trek, providing stunning mountain views. Lunch will be served during the trek, either along the way or at High Camp. The day covers about 6.5 km in 6-7 hours, with an ascent of 910 m and no descent.

Accommodation for the night will be at Heaven View Guest House or an equivalent lodge within High Camp.

DAY 6: 25-APR-24, THU: TREK TO MARDI HIMAL BASE CAMP - UPPER VIEW POINT AND RETURN TO BADAL DANDA

 After breakfast, we embark on a trek to the Mardi Himal Base Camp - Upper View Point (4,280 m). The trail involves ups and downs, sometimes on steep and narrow paths. We pass through pastures and along a narrow ridge before reaching the Upper View Point, offering breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks.

Lunch will be provided during the trek. An optional hike to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500 m) is available for those seeking additional adventure.

The day's trek covers about 9.2 km in 7-8 hours, with an ascent of 680 m and a descent of 940 m. Accommodation for the night will be at Hotel Munal or an equivalent lodge in Badal Danda.

DAY 7: 26-APR-24, FRI: TREK TO SIDING AND DRIVE TO POKHARA 

Enjoy breakfast with stunning mountain views before embarking on the final leg of our trek. The trail leads through birch, rhododendron, and oak forests to reach Siding, our trek's endpoint.

The day's distance covers about 5.2 km in 5-6 hours, with no ascent and a descent of 1,360 m. After reaching Siding, a private vehicle will be arranged for your journey to Pokhara, passing through Khora Mukh and Milan Chowk. Accommodation for the night will be at Hotel Middle Path & Spa or an equivalent lodge in Pokhara.

DAY 8: 27-APR-24, SAT: AFTERNOON FLIGHT FROM POKHARA TO KATHMANDU AND FAREWELL DINNER

 Spend the morning at your leisure exploring Pokhara before heading to Pokhara airport. A flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is scheduled between 3 to 4 PM, allowing you time for activities in Pokhara until around 2 PM. Be ready in the hotel lobby by 2 PM for departure.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel for a farewell dinner with the team. Accommodation for the night will be at Kathmandu Guest House or an equivalent hotel in Thamel.

DAY 9: 28-APR-24, SUN: DEPARTURE FROM KATHMANDU

As your journey concludes, we will arrange a transfer to Kathmandu Airport to ensure a smooth transition for your departure flight back home. Please plan to arrive at the airport approximately four hours before your scheduled flight, as the reporting time is three and a half hours prior to departure.

We hope your visit to Nepal and the enriching experiences during the retreat leave a lasting impression.    

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