The Mardi Himal & Khayer Lake Trek is a captivating journey in the Annapurna region, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and high-altitude adventure. This trek takes you off the beaten path, leading through dense rhododendron forests, charming traditional villages, and up to the dramatic alpine landscapes beneath the towering peaks of the Annapurna range.
The trek is known for its quieter trails compared to more popular routes, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking peace, solitude, and an authentic Himalayan experience. The journey gradually ascends to Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m), where you are rewarded with breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli.
A major highlight of this trek is the side trip to Khayar Lake (4,660m), a sacred alpine lake revered by local communities. The challenging hike to the lake passes through rugged terrain and high-altitude landscapes, offering both a spiritual and adventurous experience.
Highlights of the Lumba Sumba Pass Trek:
Welcome! To Kathmandu, Nepal. You will be welcomed by an Asian Heritage Travel representative with a nameplate upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will then be taken to your hotel located within the busy tourist district known as Thamel in Kathmandu. You will see some of the highlights of the city while traveling to the hotel, including Pashupatinath Temple, Narayanhiti Royal Palace Museum, and the peaceful Garden of Dreams. Once you arrive at your hotel, a representative will meet you to discuss your itinerary and answer any questions you might have about it. After you check into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the busy streets, cafés, and shops of Thamel or relax at your hotel.
Includes: Private transport and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
We start our journey through a beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. As we move through the twisting roadways, let us take in the sight of lush green fields, terraced farmland, and hills of Nepal.
This is what awaits you in Pokhara – a destination that is dear to all travel enthusiasts from all over the globe. This valley is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, peaceful environment, and striking Himalayan ranges. Think of the bliss of getting to see the stunning beauty of the Himalayas as its reflections are seen in Phewa Lake, accompanied by the refreshing beauty of the Pokhara valley.
Includes: Breakfast, Private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar hotel in Pokhara.
After breakfast, a short drive will bring us to Kande, which will be our starting point for trekking. From here, our trek begins through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and other varieties of alpine vegetation. The trekking path gradually climbs upwards while providing a serene environment and a glimpse of the Himalayas. After a steady trek of 4 to 5 hours, we will reach Forest Camp and stay overnight in a serene environment.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Forest Camp.
Today’s trek will continue along lovely forest trails, gradually ascending in altitude. The route is lined with rhododendron and provides ever-expanding vistas of the breathtaking Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and other peaks. When we arrive at Low Camp, the terrain will finally open up, giving us a first glimpse of the high mountain environment.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Low Camp.
We rise above the tree line today as we enter the alpine region with breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. The trail is quite rugged today, but offers beautiful scenery with each step. At High Camp, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making the stay here simply unforgettable.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in High Camp.
The early morning hike takes us to Mardi Himal Base Camp, the highlight of the trek. From here, you are treated to breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif and other Himalayan ranges up close. We return to High Camp via the same route, as we spent time at the base camp. This is a long and arduous trek, but one of breathtaking views and achievement.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in High Camp.
Today, we trek through beautiful ridges and forests, leaving the high-altitude terrain behind. This trekking trail takes us down to the traditional village of Siding Village. In this village, you can enjoy the real rural culture of Nepal. This trekking trail provides a relaxing trek as we descend from the high-altitude trekking.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in siding village.
The journey will continue through terraced fields, forests, and villages. The path will be moderately easy with wonderful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. In the afternoon, we will reach Landruk, a picturesque Gurung settlement renowned for its hospitality and scenic beauty.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Landruk.
Today’s hike is a gradual climb through dense rhododendron forests, which are especially lovely during the blooming season. As we near Tadapani, we have a spectacular view of the Annapurnas and the Dhaulagiris, making this a memorable stop for the night.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Tadapani.
Today, we move away from the busy tracks and take a less busy route, passing through peaceful forests. The route slowly climbs to Dobato, a peaceful place surrounded by nature and famous for its peaceful environment. The day promises solitude and closeness to the beauty of nature.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Dobato.
A hike in the early morning hours will bring you to Mulde Viewpoint, one of the best spots to view a panorama. From this point, you can enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. After this, we will begin our descent to Chistibung via alpine meadows and forests.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Chistibung.
This is probably the most challenging day of the trek, but it is also the most rewarding. Today, we trek to Khayar Lake, a sacred alpine lake. The trek is steep and challenging, but the beauty of the lake and the mountains around it makes it well worth the effort. After spending the day at the lake, we trek back down to Chistibung.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Chistibung.
We trek down through forests and villages, slowly moving towards our final destination, one of the most renowned Gurung villages in Nepal: Ghandruk. This village provides us with a rich cultural experience and offers a stunning view of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, English-speaking trekking guide, porter, and an overnight accommodation at an available local lodge/tented camp in Ghandruk.
After breakfast, we will head back to Pokhara. During the journey, we will enjoy the beauty of the landscapes. From Pokhara, you have the option of taking a short flight back to Kathmandu or driving back. Once you reach Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, completing your journey.
Includes: Breakfast, Private transport, and an overnight accommodation at Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar hotel in Kathmandu.
Today is the last day of your journey. Three hours before your scheduled departure back to your home or another location, our representative will pick you up in a private vehicle after breakfast and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport.
We hope you travel safely and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Includes: Breakfast and private Transport.
Getting to Nepal as an international visitor is easy with the availability of an easy-to-use Visa on Arrival service at Tribhuvan International Airport and almost all the land border crossings into Nepal. Upon arrival at the airport, you will complete the visa form, submit the necessary documents, pay the applicable visa fee online, and then you will be given your visa within a very short time.
With several different types of Nepali visas available for various duration periods, visitors have the choice of whether they want to stay for a few days or months; however, some nationalities must obtain their visa in advance of travelling, so you must check the current visa requirements.
Learn more about visa guidelines and requirements: Tourist Visa Information
Nepal offers a wide variety of accommodation to meet the varying requirements of travelers at every budget level and personal comfort preferences.
Luxury Accommodation
Enjoy the luxury and the comfort of a highly rated hotel, and are looking for a high-end experience. You will find many luxury hotels in Nepal with an array of modern conveniences, such as spa treatments, fine dining, beautiful locations, breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and individual attention from the staff. These types of hotels are perfect for people who want to relax, unwind, and experience luxurious facilities while traveling throughout Nepal.
Budget Accommodation
Travelers who want to experience Nepal without breaking the bank will be happy to know that there are also many inexpensive accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique lodges, and homestays, which are all clean, friendly, and very good value. Budget accommodation allows a traveler to stay within their budget while experiencing the generosity of local hospitality.
We ensure that your accommodation matches your preference, whether you seek luxury or convenience.
Explore available accommodation categories: Accommodations in Nepal.
Nepal has a lot to offer with its incredible natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Travelling can also come with risks, which is why anyone visiting Nepal needs to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly those involved in adventure activities or trekking, as well as those who will be travelling to remote areas of Nepal. A well-rounded insurance policy can provide peace of mind through protection against the following:
Many trekking routes in Nepal are over 3000 meters (9842 ft); therefore, your policy should specifically state that high altitude travel is part of your Insurance plan, as well as the option to be evacuated in the event of an emergency. Choosing the right policy will help you receive the best possible care in your time of need.
Find out more about travel insurance for Nepal: Travel Insurance in Nepal
For hikers traveling to the Nepalese Himalayas, it’s essential to have the correct trekking equipment. Depending on what elevation you’re at, the weather might change drastically, so it’s crucial to use and carry the proper clothing and equipment in order to enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.
If you don’t want to travel with your own equipment, there are plenty of places in Nepal where you can rent or purchase what you need (particularly in Thamel, Kathmandu’s main shopping district). There are also locations within the city where you can find stores that offer a variety of high-quality trekking apparel and equipment at very reasonable prices.
See the complete trekking gear guide: Trekking Gear
